> My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria
>  by MaxTV1234
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologue - A Hopeful Revival
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

...
...
...
...nothing. No light, no sound. No voice, nothing but plain darkness. A hand that belong to no one was lifted and pushed aside something. A door was opened, revealing a short spiky orange hair with Ahoge, wearing a simple blue sweater with a hoodie. He has black sweats and black-and-white sneakers and laces. His eyes were dark blue and his skin was pale white.

Yes, this is me. My name is Ren Loodan. I just remember who I am, it's nice to meet...me. I instantly fell down on the ground, not even prepared on the landing as I landed on my forehead.

"Oww..." I muttered as I rub my aching forehead. Yep, that's gonna leave a mark. "Huh? Where am I?" I looked around and saw that I was in some strange white room, it looked a lot like futuristic, not exactly from my time. I got up and looked at where I landed. Apparently, it was some kind of chamber I awoken in, weird.

"Just...what is this place?" I don't understand, I looked around the room and and saw it looked like it hasn't been used in years, judging how everything looks.

"Oh wait, maybe this is a dream? And I'm still dreaming, right?" I instantly grabbed my cheek, but that only hurt another part of my body.

"Okay, so this isn't a dream? So where am I?" I kept thinking and thinking on where the heck am I, but nothing. I can't remember anything, just my name, my family-

Wait, my family! Oh no, what happened to them? I looked around to see if this lab had a way out of here. I ran around the room to even look up close to find a exit, but nothing. 

"Where's the exit? There has to be one, right?!" I said as I kept touching the walls, thinking that maybe there could be a door hidden away in sight. As I kept the walls, I felt something I touch, I looked at where I touch for a while, and knocked on it hard.

BAM! BAM! BAM!

This part of the wall, it seems light weighted than the other part of the walls. I pushed it, which caused the wall to open vertically and caused me to fall...again.

"Ooof!" I got up again and saw...a room? What the? It looked like any normal bedroom I ever saw in my life. A normal bed, a normal closet, and a window...wait a minute, a window!

I instantly ran towards and saw outside, it was colorful, full of greenery and such. Wait, where am I exactly? I looked around to find a door, and I did. I ran towards the door and opened it, revealing another room. 

It looked like it was a living room in hear, with a very short two-seated couch and a brown table, brown floors, a large TV, a kitchen, a fridge, and one of those glass sliders you see in homes, but this one was different, it had large bars covering outside, wonder why? I looked around and saw another door, I ran towards it and opened it, but it was lock.

"No no no..." I said as I kept opening the door, but it wouldn't budge. Hmm, maybe it needs a key. I looked around and tried to find one, until I saw a golden one on the kitchen counter. I grabbed it and use it to unlock the door, but wait a minute? What am I even doing in a place like this? And judging by this room, I say this place hasn't been touched in almost a year or so, considering the dust I see on the table and the kitchen counter.

Hmm, maybe someone will explain to me what happen once I get out of here. I used the key to finally unlock the door and finally got of here, but I was meant with weird results.

As soon as I got out of there, I saw I was in the open fields, nothing much but the grass, the hills, the mountains, and...a forest? This doesn't make sense, I live in a city, so what am I doing in a place like this? More importantly, how did an Apartment complex get around in a place like this anyway?

I turned around, but only to become surprised to see instead of an apartment complex, it was something far unbelievable for me. It was a spaceship, but it seems so small on the outside, but judging by how big the kitchen, the living room, the bedroom, and that secret chamber that I was awoken in, I say it's pretty decent. So wait, I was awaken in a spaceship, but this doesn't make any sense?

Wait, don't tell me? Was I...abducted by aliens?!....no, that can't be true, that's just silly anyway. I mean everyone knows that aliens don't exist, there nothing but fiction. But then again, that spaceship that I awoken is evidence that I have been abducted by aliens. But the ship, it like it crash-landed and haven't been use in..a year or so.

Ugh, stay focus Ren, you need to find some help, hmm, maybe something back in the ship can help me.

I went back inside, hoping there could be anything that could help me, or any explanation on how did I end up here and why can't I remember anything. As I continued to search, I went back to bedroom and looked under the bed, and that's when I found a suitcase, but it appears it hasn't been used as well. Just how long was I out?

I looked inside and...what the heck? Inside the case, and it turned out it was some megaphone, you know, the ones you use in parades, sports games, and such. 

I took it out of the suitcase and examined it for a while. "Just what is this thing anyway?" I took a closer look and saw something off about the megaphone, it had some weird dial on it, wonder what it does? 

I pulled its trigger, when suddenly, a blue energy started coming off from the tip and shot and destroy the window, only the glass, not the bars covering it. I widened my eyes in shock of this.

"What the...." I was left speechless upon seeing this. Something tells me that this isn't an ordinary megaphone. I noticed something underneath the inside of the case, and took it out.

"Huh? A note?" I raised a brow and read what it said.

"If you read this note, then you must awoken from your slumber and found the Megaphone Hacking Gun. Please, allow me to explain, the Hacking Gun is a special weapon we have developed. It sends out programming codes in an electromagnetic wave, allowing it to hack into target's mechanisms from a distance and many objects, oh, and it can affect living organisms as well. Make sure nothing happens to the Hacking Gun. Always believe in the sake of Hope."

Megaphone Hacking Gun? I've never heard of that before, but then again, why make a weapon out of a megaphone? I can imagine someone might mistake it for a normal megaphone. I looked over the dial and it has something on each of it.

Break

Move

Dance

Detect

Knockback

Paralyze

Burn

Link

Those...were pretty unique names to use on a weapon, but why do I have this? Doesn't matter, I guess I'll explore the outside already.

I put the Hacking Gun behind me and left the apart-I meant spaceship, I still don't wanna believe it, but I still need face it.

Anyway, once I got outside, I looked around the place until I noticed a town. "Oh great, a town, maybe someone over there can help me!" I said full of joy inside of me.

I ran towards the town and enter the place, before I noticed a sign at the entrance. I looked over it and it said "Ponyville", weird name for a town.

"Oooh, are you excited for the Summer Sun Celebration, Bon-Bon?" Huh? I turned around and widen my eyes upon seeing something unbelievable.

Ponies. But they were different, they were colorful, one was a green mint pony, but the craziest thing was that she had a horn. The other was a peach color pony with a black and pink mane and tail, and she seems to be a regular pony like any other would be. But what's up with the one with the horn.

"Yeah yeah, I know you're excited Lyra, and so am I, just calm down." The pony known as Bon-Bon said trying to calm down that green-mint pony name Lyra. Wait, did they just say something?! I looked around and hid behind a bush and looked at them as they entered the town. 

"Sorry, it's just so amazing! Princess Celestia is coming to Ponyville for the first time ever Bon-Bon!" Princess Celestia? Who's that?

"Yeah I know Lyra, but I also heard she send someone to go check over the decorations." Bon-Bon said as I began to follow them, but hid away from them out of sight.

"Really who is it?"

"Someone told me it was the Princesses's own protege, and she's from Canterlot." The green mint pony jumped for joy upon hearing that from the other pony. 

"Oh that's amazing, well let's give them a warm welcome tonight when we have the chance." Lyra said happily.

"In case you forgot Lyra, Pinkie Pie is already handling that." Bon-Bon said as they continued to walk around the town. I hid behind a building and took a glance and became shocked to see so many ponies around, ones with horns, one who don't and...ponies that can fly. Apparently, I saw ponies with wings flying around through the skies, and I think I saw one, but it was going too fast that I saw it as a blur, weird.

Okay...something tells me that this isn't a dream? Hold on, these ponies, I read about them back when I went to the library, at least that I can remember that.

Those ponies...they're like the ones in that book of Mythical creatures I read. The ones with the horns are called Unicorns if I remember, and they use their horns to perform magic, and the ponies with wings, they're called Pegasi, they have the power to control the weather and fly around with those wings of theirs. Amazing, so I'm in a world full of Mythological creatures, this is so amazing.

Wait a minute, I awoken in a spaceship, then I found myself in a large hill, a town full of mythical ponies, does that mean? I'm...in another world? But how? I don't remember anything at all. 

Well I won't find answers if I just stand around and hide away from the crowd, so its best if I just find something that could help me. So I hid away from the crowd and pull my hoodie to cover my face to hide my appearance and began my search.





I had to hide in bushes, trees, houses, in order to make sure none of those ponies see me. Anyway, I hid behind a bush and saw some of the ponies minding their own business, well that's good, because if they saw a human being like me, this will create a panic.

Suddenly, I started to hear singing, I turned around and saw a yellow Pegasus with a pink mane and tail singing with a bunch of birds, and the birds were repeating back on what she's saying. Huh, she must be good with birds. Hmm? I noticed something on the side of her butt, apparently it was a mark of a trio of butterflies? Strange, wonder what's up with the tattoos? 

“Oh my. Um, stop please everyone.”

The birds stopped and she flew up to a blue jay, saying, “Excuse me, sir, I just wanted to tell you your rhythm is just a teeny-tiny bit off." Huh? Does she speak with animals? Must be an animal caretaker I guess. Wait, a Pegasus who's an animal caretaker, well not the strangest thing I've seen today.

Floating back a little, she said, “Now follow me, everyone. A-one, a two- a-one-two-three-”

"Hello!" Suddenly, all the birds flew off from that loud shout, which caused the yellow Pegasus to gasp in shock. Wonder who said that? I looked to see a lavender unicorn mare with a...dragon by her side?! So I was right, this world really is inhabited with Mythical creatures?!

“Oh my, I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to frighten your birds. I just came to check up on the music and it sounds beautiful!” The lavender mare said apologizing to the mare.

The yellow Pegasus looked away from her glance, I guess she's...shy around peo-er, ponies I guess. "Anyway, I'm Twilight Sparkle." Twilight Sparkle? What is that? A name of an ice cream flavor?

"What's your name?" The lavender mare asked. The yellow Pegasus hesitate at first until she spoke up.

"I'm...Fluttershy..." She said in a quiet voice. I think she said her name was Fluttershy. Kinda an ironic name since she's...well she's shy around this pony.

“I’m sorry, what was that?”

“I’m …” she muttered, looking nervous.

“Didn’t quite catch that.”

“Fluttershy!” she squealed almost indistinctly. I kinda feel bad for her, she reminds me...of me. 

“Well!” She said, “It looks like your birds are back. Keep up the good work.”

“Mmm!” Fluttershy whimpered.

“Oookay!” Twilight said, gesturing the little purple and green dragon to follow her. Suddenly, Fluttershy noticed the little dragon and gasp in surprise.

"Ooohh! A baby dragon!” She zoomed forward and bumped Twilight out of the way. Wow, for a shy Pegasus, she sure gets really excited for seeing creatures she never seen before.

"I've never seen a baby dragon before! He's so cute!" She squealed in joy.

"Well well well!" The dragon said giving a smug look at Twilight. Wait a minute, the dragon can talk!?

“Oh my! He talks,” The yellow Pegasus was starry-eyed. “I didn’t know dragons could talk. That’s just so incredible wonderful that- that I don’t even know what to say!”

An aura surrounded Spike and he was unceremoniously levitated onto Twilight’s back as she said, “Well in that case, we’d better be going!” Wait, she used her horn to levitate the dragon to her. Well I did read that Unicorns can use magic with their horns, so I guess it makes sense how she levitate the dragon.

"Oh wait, wait!" Fluttershy called, stopping Twilight and the baby dragon, Spike. "What's his name?"

“I’m Spike!”

“Hi Spike, I’m Fluttershy. Wow, a talking dragon! And what do dragons talk about?”

“Well, whattya wanna know?” Spike asked.

“Absolutely everything!” replied Fluttershy, causing Twilight to groan.

“Well… I started out as a cute little purple & green egg..." Spike began his backstory. Well, looks like this will be a long day, so I think its best if I just kept exploring Ponyville.

I looked around to make sure nobody was around and ran off. 





Later

It was getting late, so I guess those ponies probably went to sleep. I was walking in front of a giant building, I looked up to see a sign that spells out "City Hall", so I guess they have a City Hall in this town as well. This place is almost like my home, well maybe except walking talking ponies that is.

Well today, I learn some things today.

One, I'm in a world full of walking talking ponies that seemed to be Mythological creatures.

Two, I somehow been asleep inside that chamber for who knows how long.

Three, I'm stranded in this planet, with no way to return back home. My family is probably worried about me, my mom, my dad, my older brother, and my younger sister.

Okay, you need to relax, I'm sure there's a way to get back home, I just know it! Suddenly, I saw a bunch of ponies walking towards the City Hall. Oh no, they might see me, I instantly put my hoodie over my head and ran to the side of the building to hide away from view.

Wonder what's happening in there? Is there some kind of event happening inside? Wait, if I remember correctly, those two ponies from earlier said something about the Summer Sun Celebration. Wonder what that means? Do they mean that they're celebrating the first day of summer?

Hmm, well if that's so, I do want to see what's happening inside, but how do I get in? I looked around and saw a ladder, hmm, maybe I could climb up and see what's happening by watching outside of the event.

I ran towards the ladder and started climbing, but I had to make sure my Hacking Gun didn't fall from me, but it was attached to the back of my pants, so it was good. I continue to climb up until I reached to the top, which the entire roof was made of glass, I just hope it doesn't break.

“Fillies and gentlecolts, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration!” I looked down to see every pony in town were all standing around in excitement.

Everybody cheered in response but quickly calmed down for the mayor to continue.

“In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise and celebrate this, the longest day of the year!” Longest Day of the year? That doesn't make sense? Just how long was I asleep inside of that chamber?


“And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day! The good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria..." The curtains started to open up as we were about to see this pony they were talking about.

"Princess Celestia!" Once the curtains open up, it revealed...nothing. What? Judging by all the gasps all those ponies gave out, I'm guessing this isn't part of the act.

“Remain calm, everypony,” The pony on stage said gently, “there must be a reasonable explanation.” Yeah, maybe she's late or something.

“Ooh! Ooh, I love guessing games!” I looked around and saw a pink mare grinning, like there's nothing wrong. I guess she's too...ecstatic. "Is she hiding?" The pink mare said looking around the place.

"She's gone!" A white unicorn with a purple mane and tail announced from the balcony. 

Everybody gasped while the pink mare said "Ooh, she's good." Yep, I was right, she's too ecstatic.

But suddenly, a shimmering haze appear from inside the building. "What the?" I muttered in confusion.

Suddenly, a tall black pony, clad in blue armor appeared. What the?! Who is that? The black pony narrowed her eyes narrowed wickedly as she looked down on everypony, her mane and tail were the haze, resembling a starry nebula, moving as though they were alive, and her mark was a purple mark covering her rump while her flanks were sided by a moon.

Okay, this is definitely not an act!

"Oh, my beloved subjects! It's been so long since I've seen your precious little sun-loving faces..." The black pony said in a elegant yep condescending manner.

"What did you to our princess?!" A rainbow mare pony demanded as she started to fly towards her, but only to be grab by the tail by a orange mare wearing a hat. 

The black pony laughed mockingly and said "Why? Am I not royal enough? Don't you know who I am?"

"Ooh, ooh! More guessing games!" The pink said not even scared about what's happening right now. "Um...Hokey Smokes! How bout...Queen Meanie! No! Black Beauty, Black-"

Suddenly, an apple was stuffed into her mouth by the orange mare, who was still holding the rainbow mare's tail with her teeth. 

"Does my crown no longer count now that I've been imprisoned for a thousand years?" The Dark Black Pony asked rhetorically, glaring at the yellow Pegasus that I saw earlier ago. She then turned to another pony and said "Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?" Signs? Legend? What is she talking about?

"I did!" Huh? I looked down to see the same lavender mare walking forward towards the tall black pony. I know her, what was her name again? Twilight Sparkle? "And I know who you are!" Everypony just looked at her in shock, surprise, and confusion, and I was looking at her in all those feelings.

"You're the Mare in the Moon! Nightmare Moon!" Nightmare Moon? With a name like that, she's sound terrifying. Everypony gasped in shock while Nightmare Moon simply smirked.

“Well, well, well! Some ponies who remember me… then you also know why I’m here.”

“You’re here to… to-!” Twilight just couldn’t say it. Wonder what's wrong with her? 

Nightmare Moon laughed wickedly as she spoke, “Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last… forever! Ahhahahahahahahahaha…!!!!!!!!” Night time....forever?

As Nightmare Moon cackled, her vaporous mane rose up in a hurricane, lightning flashing ominously, she stopped and looked up to see....me?!

"Well well well, what do we have here?" Her horn lit up and shot up towards the glass ceiling. Once the attack hit the glass, it started to crack and-

Oh no.

"AAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!" I instantly fell down on the ground and hit my head, ow, and just when it was just starting to heal. My eyes were dizzy, meaning I couldn't see what's happening. After I shook my head, I looked around and saw everypony looking at me in shock, surprised, and fear. Nightmare Moon just looked at me with an interested but yet Eerie expression. 

I smiled nervously and waved "Uh...hi there." Well, this is not what I wanted my day to be.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 1 - Friendship Is Magic
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Everypony in the building looked at me, afraid that I'm an alien, well maybe to them, but I'm a human.

"Well, I don't know what you are, but you seem quite a lovely specimen." Nightmare Moon said glaring at me. I went pale upon seeing her face and instantly grab my Hacking Gun.

"Stay back!" I said as I triggered it and shot 'Break' at her, but she blocked it. 

"W-what?!" I exclaimed in shock. Nightmare Moon laughed at me as she said "I don't know about that little toy of yours, but it has no affect at me!"

I don't understand, it doesn't affect her. Wait, that note, it said it only affects mechanisms and living organisms, so why isn't it affecting her?

"Guards, seize them! Only they know where the Princess is hidden!" The Mayor said getting a couple of Pegasus Guards towards us. They pointed their spears at me, much to my surprise.

"W-whoa wait! I'm on your side!" I exclaimed. Suddenly, Nightmare Moon glared at them for them trying to stop her.

"Stand back you fools!" her eyes lit up as she cackled, the Guards getting knocked back by lightning, while Nightmare Moon suddenly dispersed into a shimmering mist and flew off. 

"Farewell little boy!" She said before turning into a mist and flying off to who knows where. 

"I need to get out of here!" While the crowd ran away in fear, probably from me. I ran out of there and headed outside, but I noticed the same lavender mare and her little dragon headed somewhere else.

"Hey get back here!" I looked up to see the rainbow mare flying around the night sky. Nightmare Moon...she has to be kidding right? Night time...forever...this can't be happening. Hmm, that purple mare seems to know her, maybe she can help!





I followed her to a giant tree that's in the center of town, apparently. I followed after her inside, and she seems to be busy putting the baby dragon to sleep.

“We gotta stop Nightmarrr…”

But he fell back to sleep, Twilight giving him a blanket, saying, “You’ve been up all night, Spike. You are a baby dragon, after all." 

"Yet, he speaks in a child voice." I said aloud, which she nodded in agreement. But then her eyes widen in surprise as she turned to me in shock.

"GAH! Who are you?! Are you an alien or something?! Are you siding with Nightmare Moon?!" She asked as her horn lit up. 

I grab my Hacking Gun and pointed to her in fear. "W-wait, I'm on your side!" I said as I kept pointing the gun at her.

"At my side?! You're putting that megaphone in front of me! I saw what it can do, so don't play games with me! Who are you!?" She asked getting suspicious with me.

"I'm R-Ren Loodan! I'm a human, and please don't shoot me, I'm telling the truth, honest!" I exclaimed. She just looked at me for a while until she let out a sigh.

"Alright, I'll believe you...for now." She said narrowing her eyes at me. Oh boy, I just hope she'll trust me soon enough. 

"So anyway, Loodan? What kind of name is that?" She asked. I thought she might asked something like that.

"Well, I know it sounds weird, but its actually Estonian for Hope." I explained, which further her confusion.

"Huh?" She asked.

"Never mind, anyway, I'm sorry about what's happening, Twilight." I said in a worried expression.

"Don't worry, I know this looks bad but-wait, how did you know my name?" She asked getting suspicious of me. Oh boy, I screwed up didn't I? Oh well, there's no way getting out of this one.

"You see...I may or may not eavesdrop on you?" I said sweat-dropping but I can the see the stern look she was given me. 

"Well anyway...we'll worry about that later, right now, I need help!" Twilight said as she started scavenging through some books. 

"You sure have a lot of books in here." I said amazed to see so many of them stacked so neatly on the shelves. 

"Well of course, this is the Ponyville's Library after all." A library?! A library inside a tree? Nobody in home could've think of that?...did they?

“Elements, elements…! Urgh!”

She was levitating book after book, checking the titles, when she said, “How can Nightmare Moon be stopped if we can’t find the Elements of Harmony?!” Elements of Harmony? What are those?

"And just what are the Elements of Harmony?!" GAH! What the?! I was suddenly faced-to-faced with the rainbow mare from earlier ago. 

“And how did you two know about Nightmare Moon, huh?! Are you spies?!” She glared at me angrily. I instantly grabbed ahold of my Hacking Gun and pointed it towards her.

"S-stay back, I have a Hacking Gun and I'm n-not afraid to use it!" I exclaimed, but to be honest, I AM afraid to use it.

"Please, like I'm afraid of some megaphone." She boasted until she was pulled away from the orange mare from before.

"Simmer down Rainbow Dash, they ain't spies!" She said as the other mares showed up. The white unicorn, Fluttershy, and the pink mare. So the rainbow mare is name Rainbow Dash, another ironic name.

"But they know something, right Twilight and...uh..." She turned to me in confusion, they were scared and confused on my appearance. I let out a sigh and introduced myself.

"My name is Ren Loodan, and if you're wondering what I am, I am human." I said nervously.

"Right...." She said raising a brow in suspicion. "Ooh, Loodan! What a funny name! Like...looney!" The pink mare said laughing about my name, much to my anger.

"Hey, it's a family name, I love my last name!" I exclaimed.

"Alright everyone, just calm down!" We turned to Twilight, who made a serious expression and started the explanation of the problem.

"Ahem! Now then, for those who know how I knew Nightmare Moon, I read all about the prediction of Nightmare Moon. Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her, but I don't know what they are, how to find them!....I don't even know what they do!" 

"Well, maybe there's something around here that could help!" I said not wanting to give up.

She let out a sigh and looked at me with a reassuring look. "I appreciate your help, Ren, but it's gonna take a miracle in order to find them."


"The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide." Huh? We turned to the pink mare, who apparently found it. Twilight ran towards and knocking her out of the way to get it.

"How did you find that?!

"It was under 'e'!" She answered playfully.

"B-but you....I'll ask about that later." I said sweat-dropping at the answer she said.

"There are six Elements of Harmony, of which only five are known." Twilight as she continued reading. "Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty, and Loyalty." Huh? Those sounds like emotions, does it work by those who have those kinda personalities or so? Anyway, I decided to think about them later once we find them as I continued to listen what Twilight is saying.

"While the remaining one are a long-forgotten mystery. The last known location of the known elements is the Castle of the Royal Pony Sisters, located in what is now..." She hesitated at first as she gulped and said. "The Everfree Forest." 

Everybody in the room let out a gasp while I looked at them with a confuse expression. "What's wrong you guys? This 'Everfree Forest' can't be that bad."





Well, I take that back. We all were standing in the front entrance of the Everfree Forest, and looking at this place, makes me regret on what I said.

"Whee! Let's go!" The pink mare cheered but Twilight stopped her. 

"Not so fast!" We all looked at her, as she said "Look I appreciate the offer...but I'd really rather do this on my own."

"No way sugarcube, we sure ain't letting any friend of ours go into that creepy place alone!" The orange mare exclaimed.

"S-she's right, it looks very dangerous in there, who knows what might happen. So that's why we're gonna help you, besides...." I took my Hacking Gun and made a determined expression. "As long as I have my Hacking Gun, we'll be okay!" 

"Whoa! A megaphone! Can I have one?!" The pink mare asked appearing next to me. 

"W-what the?! How did you?!" How in the world did she come near me like that? I didn't even hear her come.

"Can I play with it, pretty please?" She asked giving me the puppy eyes. Must...ignore...it.

"Pinkie darling, focus!" The white unicorn said sternly. So the pink mare is name Pinkie? What a weird name.

"Anyway, like I said, we're sticking with you like a candy on a candy apple!" The orange mare exclaimed.

"Especially if there are any candy apples in there!" Pinkie agreed, which me and Twilight gave her a look of confusion at her. "What? Those things are good!" 

I rolled my eyes while Twilight sighed. Yep, I was right, she ecstatic, a little too ecstatic.





Anyway, while we venture into the Everfree Forest, we got to know each other. Apparently, the orange mare was actually name Applejack,  who owns an apple farm and its a family generation, which was pretty impressive, well since I've never seen an apple farm before. The white unicorn is name Rarity, who was a Fashionista and owns a store called the Carousel Boutique, which surprised me for a pony to make dresses, but then again, I realized that I'm in another world. 

The pink mare was name Pinkie Pie, who was Ponyville's number #1 party planner and throws the best parties ever, but Pinkie then realized that since I'm a new visitor to Ponyville and to this planet, apparently, she's gonna throw a party for me when all of this is done, but that's gonna take a while for everyone back at the town to get use to me.

The rainbow mare Pegasus was Rainbow Dash and she boasted about being the best flyer ever and works as captain of the Ponyville Weather Team and they control the weather, much to my surprise, but then again, I'm from another world.

And finally, the yellow Pegasus was Fluttershy, who I already knew after hearing her conversation with Twilight and Spike earlier ago. Apparently, she's an animal caretaker and raises many animals, much to my surprise, but true to her name, she's very shy around others, well except for her friends but she's gonna try to get use to me anyway.

As we walked in a single-file, Twilight spoke up. "So...none of you have been here before?" 

"Oh heavens, no!" Rarity shivered. "Just look at it, it's dreadful!"

"And it ain't natural!" Applejack added. "This place don't work the same as the rest of Equestria!" 

"Huh? Why's that?" I asked holding the Hacking Gun in my hands just in case we encountered some creatures that might attack us.

"Well it's just that the plants around here grow crazy." Applejack said in fear.

"And the animals live in the wild and take care of themselves." Fluttershy said shivering.

"And the clouds move...by themselves!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. I looked at them with a unsure expression.

"But that's..kinda like the same thing like from my world." I said, much to their shock.

"Oh sure, it makes sense for an alien to know that." Rainbow Dash said crossing her hooves at me. 

"Rainbow...." Applejack said in a stern tone until suddenly, we heard a crumbling sound, and suddenly, the ground beneath us started to fall apart in a rockside.

"Whoa!" I tripped over and nearly fell down until I was caught by Fluttershy. 

"Are you okay?" She asked worried about me.

"Yeah, I think so." I said as I look at my Hacking Gun and saw it was okay as well. I turned to the others and saw Rainbow Dash carrying Pinkie and Rarity with all her might. Phew, that was a close one, wait, where's Twilight?

"GAH!" I looked down and saw Twilight sliding towards the end. 

"Twilight!" I called out to her. Oh no, what am I gonna do? Is there anything that this gun can do to help?

"I'm a coming!" We looked down to see Applejack as she slid down and quickly grabbed Twilight, but Twilight's rear hooves were slipping.

"Applejack, what do I do?" Twilight exclaimed. 

For a moment, Applejack was unsure when she noticed something above. "Let go." Huh? Was she crazy?!

"Are you crazy?!" Twilight snapped. Yeah, that's what I thought. What is she trying to do?!

No Ah ain’t!” Applejack swore to her. “Ah promise you’ll be safe.”

“That’s not true!” Twilight was beginning to panic. “You just wanna save yourself!” What is Applejack trying to say? I looked down and saw what she meant. Oh, now I understand.

"Twilight, do what Applejack said! Trust her!" I called out to her. Twilight looked at me for a while and Applejack until she let out a sigh and let go.

"AHHHHHH!" Twilight screamed for a few seconds until I called out.

"Um...Twilight, you can open your eyes now." I called out to her as she opened up her eyes. Apparently, she found herself in the safe hold of Rainbow Dash. 

"Phew..." Twilight said relief that she's still alive. Fluttershy flew down and put me down on the ground next to Pinkie Pie and Rarity.

"Sorry I couldn't carry you that much Ren, I'm not used to holding anything heavier than a bunny or two." Fluttershy said apologizing to me.

I hold my hands up and said "Oh no Fluttershy, it's okay, thanks for the save!" I said, which made her smile softly.

Twilight was then put back on the ground by Rainbow Dash, who thanked her, and Applejack leaped from ledge to ledge downwards to catch up with us. When she finally arrived, I turned to Applejack and asked "Applejack, how did you know that Rainbow Dash put Pinkie and Rarity safely back to the ground. I thought you were trying to save yourself."

"No way I would leave my own friend behind, besides Ren, it's been to be honest with your yourself and your friends." Applejack said as she and the others continued on. Honest...with your yourself and your friends? What could she mean by that?





Later, we were continuing our trek through the forest, still find our way towards the Castle of the Royal Pony Sisters.

"...And once Pinkie and Rarity were safe, I loop de' loop and wham! Caught you right in the nick of time!" Rainbow boasted which annoyed Twilight.

"Yes Rainbow, I was there." Twilight said giving her a deadpanned expression. "And I'm very grateful. But we need to-"

Suddenly, a loud thud ahead of us made us to look to see...what the heck is that? It looked like a lion, but it had a scorpion tail,  and dragon wings.

"A manticore!" Twilight shouted. I never heard of that before? "We've gotta get past it!" Alright, let's see if this Hacking Gun can be to good use.

I grabbed it and set it on 'Paralyze' and shot it. "Paralyze!" I shouted as it hit the Manticore, causing it to froze in shock, literally.

"Whoa, nice shot sugarcube!" Applejack said amazed by my Hacking Gun.

"That gun is amazing, you gotta let me do some tests with it!" Twilight said intrigued with my Hacking Gun. Suddenly, the paralysis was already wearing off as the Manticore growled at us and shot towards Rarity.

"Rarity, look out!" I exclaimed, but she gave it a powerful kick to the face, much to our surprise. Wow, for a fashionista, she knows how to fight.

"That that you ruffian!" The manticore shook its head to get rid of the pain and roared at her face with such force and fury, which caused her mane to be ruin, much to her chagrin. "MY HAIR!" 

Suddenly, she was now coming face-to-face with the manticore as she yelped before retreating. 

"Um...girls...." Huh? I turned to Fluttershy, who apparently has some idea, but the others just ignore and tried to find some way to defeat the Manticore.

"Alright, we gotta get that manticore out of the way, but just how?" Twilight thought aloud.

"Um...girls..." Fluttershy said a little louder, but met with the same results.

"I say that we make Ren use his Hacking Gun to use it to Paralyze it again and run away from it as fast as we can!" Rainbow said, which made me give her a blank stare.

"Um..guys.." Everypony turned to me in confusion and I pointed towards Fluttershy. "I think Fluttershy has an idea."

"Fluttershy?" Twilight asked confused about that idea. 

"Alright, so what's the plan?" Rainbow Dash asked as Fluttershy walked towards and looked at the Manticore.

"Wait, what are you doing?!" Twilight exclaimed, okay that is not what I expected her to do. She looked at the manticore for a while until she started petting it, much to our surprise.

"Oh my!" Rarity gasped.

"Wow, I know she's good with animals, but this is amazing! She's like a professional!" I said in amazement and shock.

"Well of course!" I was immediately by surprise by Pinkie Pie appearing out nowhere once again.

"Fluttershy was always known for being the best animal caretaker ever, oh like this one time-" Luckily, Applejack shut her up for good but slamming her hoof in her mouth, phew that was a close one. Anyway, we looked back to see Fluttershy giving the Manticore's paw a kiss.

The manitcore looked kinda distress and held it out, revealing a big thorn in its paw. I get it now, it must be getting angry because there was a thorn in its paw.

"Aw, you poor little baby." Fluttershy said feeling bad for it.

"Little?!" I echoed. That giant manticore is a baby?! That's just...crazy! And why am I rhyming all of a sudden?

"Now this might hurt a moment." Fluttershy said as she took the thorn out of its paw. Once so, the manticore roared into Fluttershy's face, much to our shock.

"FLUTTERSHY!" Me and Twilight shouted to her in distress.

But instead of eating her, the Manticore was just giving her a grateful lick, as he purred. "Ha-ha, oh you're just a little baby cutie, aren't you? Oh yes you are!" Fluttershy said treating it like a baby, even though it is a baby. 

Anyway, we realized that this was our chance as we quickly hurried past the Manticore. We waited for her to catch up, and once she did, Twilight asked "How did you know about the thorn?" Yeah, none of us even though it was there, she must have seen keen eyes.

“I didn’t,” she admitted, her mane now slicked by manticore slobber. “Sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness.”

Twilight puzzled Fluttershy’s words, and so did I. Kindness? Wait, first the rockslide, now the Manticore, I feel as though this is some kind of test of some sort.

Never mind, we'll think about that later. 





As we carried on, we were walking through a muddy puddle. 

"My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck!" Rarity said shuddering in fear of walking through it. I understand she wants to look like but now, it's really not the time.

"That ancient ruin could be right in front of us and we wouldn't even know it!" Twilight said in worried. 

While everyone else started to complain, I felt as though there was something weird about that tree.

"Huh? Hey guys, hold on." I said, gaining their attention.

"What is it now?!" Rainbow Dash asked impatiently. 

"Do you guys get the feeling that...someone is watching us?" I asked, much to their confusion. Suddenly, Fluttershy let out a scream and pointed towards something behind me. What in the-

"AAAAHHHH!" I screamed upon seeing something in front of me, it was a tree with a horrifying face. "Oh sweet Jesus, mother of Jesus, what in the world is that?!" I grabbed my Hacking Gun and set it to 'Burn'.

"Burn!" I yelled as I shot at it, but it went through it instead. What the heck?! Everywhere we turned, we keep seeing the same horrifying face, ugly, with with sharp teeth, soulless eyes, and we began to scream over and over again. This is something from a horror film or something!

"HA-HA-HA!"

"WHAT?!" We all shouted in unison as we turned to see Pinkie....laughing at one of the faces and making faces back at them?! What the heck?! How is she not afraid of them?!

"Pinkie, what're you doing?! Run!" I yelled to her.

“Oh everypony, don’cha see?” Pinkie said as some tune started up. 


When I was a little filly and the sun was going down….


“Tell me she’s not-” Twilight started to say, but Pinkie kept going.


The darkness and the shadows , they would make me frown...


"Eeyup she is." Applejack confirmed as Pinkie hopped around them as she carried on!


I’d hide under my pillow
From what I thought I saw
But Granny Pie said that wasn’t the way
To deal with fears at all



“Then what is?!” Rainbow Dash demanded, the song irritating her, only for Pinkie to hop over next to her. She said.: 


“Pinkie, you gotta stand up tall
Learn to face your fears
You’ll see that they can’t hurt you
Just laugh to make them disappear.”



Ha! Ha! Ha!


In response to the laughter, the horrid face vanished, revealing it was nothing more than a tree! We all gasped upon seeing this.

"Hey it's working, Pinkie keep going!" I said as set the Hacking Gun to 'Dance', hmm, wonder what this would do?

"Dance!" I yelled out as I shot Dance at the horrifying tree, and to my surprise, it worked! The tree started to dance by using its stems and dancing around, and before you know it, we stepped to the beat. 


So giggle at the ghostly

Fluttershy giggled.

Guffaw at the grossly

Rainbow laughed with a skip.

Crack up at the creepy

Rarity raised her brow and laughed.

Whoop it with the weepy

Applejack smiled happily with Pinkie Pie.

Chortle at the kooky


Pinkie pushed me and Twilight up to a face, and we laughed it away.


Snortle at the spooky


All of us started to laughed together.


And tell that big dumb scary face to take a hike and leave you alone and if he thinks he can scare you then he’s got another thing coming and the very idea of such a thing just makes you wanna hahahaha… heh…



Laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaauuuuugh!


Almost at once, all the scary faces vanished in pink poofs, revealing nothing more than barren trees, we all fall onto our backs and letting out life-enriching laughter. Okay, gotta admit, that...was amazing!





It wasn't long later until we ended our laughing and decided to keep moving forward. Pinkie hopping ahead of us when she stopped, causing us to bump unto each other. 

"What's wrong, Pinkie?" I asked as she pointed what's in front of us. A riverbank, oh great.

"How're we gonna get across this?!" Pinkie asked. The river's current was going too fast, so it's too dangerous to cross it, there's gotta be another way. My thoughts were cut off from a mournful sobbing.

"Huh?" We all asked as we followed the loud sobbing. Who the heck could be crying here in all places. Once we found out the source of the crying, I became surprised to see a giant purple sea serpent thumping his tail in the water. He appears to have a slicked back orange mane and moustache and appeared to be in distress.

"What a world, what a world!" He exclaimed in tears.

"Um, excuse us, sir?" I called out to him. "What's seems to be the problem?" I asked, I can't believe that I'm talking to it.

“Well! I was just swimming along, minding my own business,” the serpent explained, “when this tacky little cloud of purple smoke just… zipped past me, and tore off half of my beloved moustache clean off!” A little cloud of purple smoke? Wait, could've been Nightmare Moon? I remember seeing her fly off like that back at City Hall, so she did this to him.

"And now I look simply horrid!" He said showing us the missing hald of the serpents's moustache, now a mere messy tuft on the serpent's nose. He went back to crying as he just fell over, unintentionally sending a wave to splash u, leaving us soaking wet. 

I checked my Hacking Gun and found out it was still okay, even if it was soaking wet, guess this things water-proof.

"Oh gimme a break!" Rainbow Dash gruffed.

“That’s what all the fuss is about?” Applejack asked in a serious tone. Even I don't believe it, I mean if I can understand him if something happen to my hair, but I wouldn't wein like him about it.

"Why just look at him, such lovely luminous scales!" We turned to Rarity, who gave the serpent an apologetic expression.

"What is she doing?" I muttered.

"Your expertly coiffed mane." Rarity complimented the serpent. 

"Oh I know, I know!" The serpent ran his hand through it. Come on man, I'm sure it'll grow back someday.

"Your fabulous manicure."

The serpent gasped as she complimented his nails. "It's so true!"

"All ruined by your beautiful Moustache." Rarity lamented. Uh, I think the correct term is 'mustache' but I think fancy people like saying that word.

"It's true! I'm hideous...!" The serpent wept

"I simply cannot let such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected!" Rarity said as she quickly plucked one of the serpent's scales.

"Ow! What'd you do that for?!"

Rarity held the scale out, much to our confusion. "Rarity, what're you-"

Twilight stopped as we gasped in shock to see Rarity used the scale to slit off her own tail! Jesus, why in the world would she do something like that?!

Her horn shined as her magic levitated her shorn tail to the serpent’s nose, and with her magic, Rarity replaced the lost half of the mustache with her tail, much to the serpent’s joy.
“Oh! Hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo! My moustache…!”

“You look smashing!” Rarity beamed. 

"B-but Rarity, you're tail! Why?" I asked in a worried tone.

“Oh it’s fine, ol’ chap!” Rarity waved it off. “Besides, it’ll… grow back.” That last part didn't sound promising to me.

We then heard Twilight gasp and we turned to her. "Look everypony, the river's still enough for us to cross now!" We looked at the river and turns out she was right, the river was starting to cool down now.

But instead, we were lifted by the serpents's tail. 

"Allow me!" He said as he formed himself as a bridge of his coils, allowing us to cross over. 

As we began to cross over, I turned to him and said "Thank you so much sir!" 

"No problem, old champ!" He said as we began to trekked our way towards the Everfree Forest. Hmm, what a nice guy..er, I mean serpent.

Okay, this is a very long way to get to the Elements of Harmony, it's like something from an RPG game. 

"The ruins that hold the Elements of Harmony!" Twilight yelled out. We looked up and saw the ruins, it really was a castle, but it looked pretty abandon and hasn't been used in a longtime.

Twilight started galloping forward as Applejack yelled out "Twilight! Wait for us!"

"We're almost there!" Twilight protested when she let out a yelp and stepped into...nothing. Oh no...

"Twilight!" I yelled out as I tried to save her, but she fell down the chasm, but luckily, she was caught by Rainbow Dash.

"Seriously, what's with you and falling off cliffs today?" Rainbow Dash cracked as she settled Twilight back to the ground, much to her relief.

We all looked down and saw how big the chasm was. "Now what?!" Pinkie Pie complained. Well don't look at me, I can't fly and I don't think my Hacking Gun has something that can help get us to the other side.

"Duh." Rainbow Dash said wiggling her wings. 

"Oh yeah." Oh what? You're now realizing that she can fly.

"Be careful Rainbow Dash." I said in a worried tone.

"No sweat, Ren." Rainbow Dash scoffed. "Be back in a flash!" Rainbow Dash dived down the chasm, and arose from the mist below. We couldn't see anything that's happening in there.

"Oh, if only we can see what's happening in there." Rarity complained. 

"Hang on, I think I have something that can help." I said as I set the Hacking Gun on 'Detect', okay, let's see what this does.

"Detect!" I yelled out as it showed a purple aura around the Hacking Gun, letting us see through the mist.

"Wow, you gotta let me play with that sometimes!" Umm..how about no Pinkie? Because something tells me that you might break it if I let it to you.

"Look, there's Rainbow!" Fluttershy pointed out. We turned to see Rainbow Dash grabbing a piece of the rope-bridge in her mouth and lifted the other end towards the other side. Good job Dash, now bring it over here and-

"Rain...bow.." Huh? Who said that

"Who's there?!" Rainbow Dash asked looking around.

"Rainbow..."

“I ain’t scared of you!” Rainbow reared up, boxing her hooves for a fight. “Show yourself!” We looked towards the mist and found the source of the voice.

"We've been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the best flier in Equestria!" Huh? 

"Who?" Rainbow asked rather dumbly.

"Why, you of course!"

"Really?! I mean-oh yeah, me!" Rainbow bragged. "Hey, uh, you wouldn't mind telling the Wonderbolt that, would ya? Cuz, I've been trying to get into that group for, like, ever!" 

"Wonderbolts?" I asked. 

"Technically, it's part of Equestria air relay team that performs air shows and help defend Equestria from the skies." Twilight explained. So it's similar to the air force? Neat.

"Yeah, Rainbow is such a huge fan to them. She's been dreaming to join since she was a little filly." Applejack said rolling her eyes. So she has a dream? I kinda admire that.

"No, Rainbow Dash, we want you to join us! The Shadowbolts!" We looked back to Rainbow Dash, who was then greeted by three Pegasus wearing purple and black suits, with lightning yellow borders. The one in the middle I think it's a girl, and the other two are boys. 

"What the? Who are they?" I asked in shock.

"I don't know, I've never seen them before, but what are they even doing here in the Everfree Forest?" Twilight asked.

"Maybe they got lost and trying to find a way out of this place." Fluttershy suggested. No, I don't think so. 

"We're the best team of fliers in the Everfree Forest! And soon, we will be the greatest in all Equestria! But first… we need a captain”

Instantly Rainbow got starry-eyed, having an idea where this was going as the female Shadowbolt carried on.
“The most magnificent…”

“Yep!” Rainbow agreed.

“Swiftest!”

“Uh-huh.”

“Bravest flyer in all the land.”

Chuckling, Rainbow said, “It’s all true.”

“We need…!” the Shadowbolt cried before whispering into Rainbow’s ear, “you!”

“Whoo-hoo! Sign me up!” Rainbow leapt before going over to the rope-bridge.
“Just lemme secure this thing, then we have a deal.”

“NO!” the Shadowbolt yelled. “It’s them or us!” She's...given her a choice? Please Rainbow Dash, make the right choice, don't leave us.

"Rainbow Dash..." Twilight muttered as we looked with worried expressions at the choice she's about to make.

Suddenly, Rainbow Dash glared at them and said "Sorry, but I never leave my friends hanging!" The Shadowbolts were shocked and surprised by what Rainbow Dash said.

"If you won't join us, we'll make you!" The leader said as she and her escort jumped towards Rainbow Dash. 

"Oh no you don't, Break!" I shouted as I set it on Break and shot the three of them, luckily, since the fog was getting more clearer, I knew who to shoot at. The three Shadowbolt members disperse into smoke and were gone. So they were just an illusion, Nightmare Moon must've done this to make us lose track on getting the Elements of Harmony.

Rainbow Dash became surprised on where that shot came from, but focus on getting the bridge open. She pulled the rope, causing the bridge to jerk open as the fog started to lift away. Rainbow Dash flew to us, as we cheered happily and made our way across.

"Good job Rainbow!" Twilight said proudly.

"See? I'd never leave my friends hanging!" Rainbow Dash said smiling at us.

"Oh Rainbow Dash...thank you." I said, much to her confusion.

"For what?" She asked, not knowing on what we saw.

"For choosing us over them, I thought you were gonna leave us." I said feeling bad for not believing in her.

"Hey it's okay, like I said, I never leave my friends behind, and, thanks for the save." Rainbow Dash said winking at me. I nodded to her as we continued our way towards the Castle of the Royal Pony Sisters.

"Guys stop!" We stopped and looked at Twilight in confusion. "Look!" We looked at where she was pointing to and...you have got to be kidding me right now.

Apparently, there was a barrier blocking the place. "There's some kind of barrier surrounding the ruins! O think if you'd touched it, you would've gotten hurt!" Twilight said.

"Could Nightmare Moon did this?" I said aloud. 

"Oh great!" Rainbow complained. "We come all this way just so some stupid spell can get in the way." 

"Wait, I think I got an idea." I said as everypony turned to me in confusion. I set the Hacking Gun to 'Move', I know it sounds ridiculous, but I should give it a try.

"Move!" I shot it towards the barrier, which cause the barrier to shine brightly and shattered in shards of magic that quickly shimmered before fading away. Ha, I knew it would work.

"W-what? B-but how did you know that would work?!" Twilight asked me in confusion.

I smiled nervously and said "Eh...lucky guess, apparently." I said as everyone smiled happily at me.

"Wow, nice going Rennie!" Pinkie exclaimed, wait did she just call me Rennie?

"Ha, it's a good thing you brought that thing with ya, hey maybe if you give one to me." Rainbow Dash begging to try the Hacking Gun.

"Sorry, but I can't, besides I think this is the only one anyway." I said, much to her disappointment.





We headed inside the abandon castle, and from the inside, it's even worse from the outside. The roof of the castle was gone, the first chamber was no less impressive or good. Some windows were still persisted, and a few pillars still stood, most of them were just covered with vines. In the center, a great monument held up five stone spheres, each carved with a different shape.

"This place...I can almost feel an eerie aura coming from here." I said looking around in fear.

"Come on Twilight." Applejack invited her to come and admired the place. "Isn't this what you've been waiting for?" 

"The Elements of Harmony!" We turned to see her gallop at the monument and gazed upon the spheres. "We found them!"

Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash flew up and collected the stones. "Careful, careful..." Twilight said not wanting the Elements to fall and break.

"1-2-3-4..." Pinkie started counting until she let out a gasp. "There's only five!"

"Where's the last one?" Rainbow Dash asked

"The book said that when the five are present, one would be revealed by a spark." Twilight explained.

"What in the hay is that supposed to mean?" Applejack asked, yeah, a spark? What could she mean?

"I'm not sure but I have an idea!" Twilight said as she kneeled before the stone. "Stand back, I don't know what will happen."

"Come on you all." Applejack said leading us outside. "She needs to concentrate."

"But wait a minute, what about Nightmare Moon? What if she comes here and tries to hurt her?" I said reminding everyone of the tall black pony we encountered.

"Oh please, like she'll ever come here." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes until suddenly, a shimmering haze returned, and became a whirlwing, sucking the elements, and Twilight jumped in to grab them.

"TWILIGHT!" We all shouted as we ran back inside to try and save her.

"Where did she go?" 
"What happened?"
"How do we find them?" Everypony was started to get worried as they thought Twilight was gone for good.

No, I refuse to believe she's gone, I just know she's alive! "Twilight, where are you?!" I called out.

"Look!" We turned to Rarity, who pointed at a window, and in a nearby tower, lights flashed from its window.

"Come on, y'all!" Applejack said as we began to run to the tower to catch up with Twilight.

Suddenly, we were stopped by shadow creatures blocking our way. They looked almost similar to a pony, but with yellow eyes and weird creepy motions.

"What the?! What are they?!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. 

"They must be working for Nightmare Moon! We need to get past them!" I exclaimed as I held up my Hacking Gun. They came charging towards us as I set to 'Break'.

"Break!" I shouted shooting down two shadow monsters. 

"Look out!" Applejack came in front and buck the creature in the face, causing it to disperse.

"Thanks Applejack!" I said happily. Applejack gave me a nod as more of those shadows came at us.

"Here comes more!" Rarity exclaimed.

"I got this, okay, let's try this one!" I said as I set the 'dial' to Link. "Link!" I said as the beam shot one of the creatures, and before you know it, it stopped.

"Huh? What the?" I asked as it started moving and attacking the creatures on its own.

"What? Why is it fighting its own kind?" Fluttershy asked. 

"I'm guessing Link means that it's in my control now." I said as we watched the shadow monster destroying all of the shadow monsters. After it was done, the affects of 'Link' started to disperse as I destroy it with 'Break'.

"Nice going Ren, now come on!" Rainbow Dash as we headed towards the tower. We finally arrived, only to see Twilight helplessly on the floor and....Nightmare Moon?!

We saw Nightmare Moon cackling and looked down to see...no...the elements...they're destroyed?! Oh no, Nightmare Moon must've done this. Is it all over?

Oh, don’t feel bad,” Nightmare Moon mocked, “you won’t be around to enjoy it!”

Without warning, Nightmare Moon shot a bolt of energy at Twilight, who was too downtrodden to notice.

“Twilight!” I called as I shot Break at the incoming beam, destroying it.

"Ren! Everyone!" Twilight exclaimed as she ran to us.

"What happen?!" I asked. 

"We're too late! Nightmare Moon destroyed the Elements of Harmony! It's over..." Twilight muttered as she started to let out tears. Everypony began to feel sad...sad...no, I won't give up. After making this far, I'm not gonna give up.

"No..." Everypony looked at me in shock. "There's no way we gave up. We came all this way and for what, to give up? No! I won't give up! I won't give in to Despair!" I yelled out.

"What?" Twilight asked.

"I think I finally figured it out. All those challenges we came across through the Everfree Forest...those were tests. The Elements were never in those stones...they were in here." I said pointing it towards my chest.

"The heart?" Twilight asked.

"Yes, that's right, because those tasks we went, they were actually to test us for the power that we had all along." I said which made everypony happy.

"Oh please, keep mumbling all you want! You all will now face my fury!" Nigtmare Moon cackled as lightning started shooting down ominously. Jeez, this mare really knows how to be evil with all that lightning keep coming down every time she laughs evilly.

"No..." Twilight said glaring at Nightmare Moon, who was confuse on what Twilight meant.

"What?" Nightmare Moon asked.

You think you can destroy the Elements of Harmony just like that?” Twilight faced Nightmare Moon.
“Well you’re wrong!”

She heard them all gallop to her side and declared, “Because the spirits of the Elements of Harmony… are right here!”


The shards of the elements all glowed and shivered around Nightmare’s hooves and rose up 
"What?!"

“Applejack,” Twilight spoke, "who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of… Honesty!"

Applejack found herself surrounded by some of the shards.

"Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of… Kindness!"

Fluttershy hesitated but found reassurance in the shards around her.

"Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of… Laughter!"

Pinkie got giddy as shards surrounded her.

"Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift, represents the spirit of… Generosity!"

"Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends for her own heart’s desire, represents the spirit of Loyalty!"

You still lack the last element!” Nightmare insisted but looking troubled. “The spark didn’t work!”

“But it did… a different kind of spark!” Twilight corrected as she faced us, smiling at us all as we smiled at her. “I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you… The Spark ignited inside me! When I realized that you all… are my friends!”

A light shined above, and the sixth element appeared, floating down towards Twilight, and suddenly, I was lifted into the air in the center next to Twilight. 

"You see, Nightmare Moon, when those elements are ignited by...the spark that resides in the heart of us all, it summons the final element! The Element of....Magic!"

Nightmare Moon widened her eyes in fear upon us as we began to charge our powers.

"I think I understand now..." I turned to Twilight in confusion on what she meant. "I understand the importance of Friendship now, right Ren?" Twilight said as the Element of Magic began charging to full power. 

I nodded my head as I said "Yeah, me too!" I brought out my Hacking Gun and began charging in power as well, and started to absorb the magic coming from the Elements of Harmony.

All of us shined with power, the shards transforming into necklaces while the sixth element became a crown upon Twilight's head.

"T-this..this is absurd!" Nightmare Moon exclaimed in fear.

"Don't you see Nightmare Moon? Together, even in the deep dark depths of Despair, there is a little bit of Hope inside of us all, and that's why, we'll never give up." I shouted with courage.

We finally finished charging at full power and was ready to finish her off.

"FRIENDSHIP LIVES ON!" We all exclaimed as we fired our beams together into the colors of the rainbow, it blasted and engulfed Nightmare Moon as she cried out "NOOOOOOO! AAAAUUUUGHHHHHHHH!"

And like a bad dream, she vanished as we opened our eyes, releasing a pure white light.





...
...
...
...u.ugh? 

"Ren....Ren....REN!" 

"GAH!" I awoken up and saw that we were still inside the castle. So it wasn't a dream at all. 

"Are you okay?" I turned to Twilight, who looked worried. I noticed that she was a crown, with a jewel that shapes like the mark on her butt.

"Y-yeah, I think so." I said grabbing her hoof as she helped me up. "W-what happen?" I asked.

"We did it...we won!" Twilight said happily. So it was over, we defeated Nightmare Moon.

“Ohh…!” Rainbow groaned, as she got up. We looked at the others as they started wake up as well.

“My head!”

“Everypony ok?” Applejack asked.

“Oh my goodness!” We turned to Rarity, who apparently was happy all of a sudden.

“Why Rarity, its so lovely,” Fluttershy complimented, as Rarity posed.

“I know!” Rarity waved her tail, which had somehow been restored to its full length and same beautiful style. “I'll never part with it again!”

“No, your necklace,” Fluttershy pointed out. “The jewel looks just like your cutie-mark.” Yeah, she's right, all of them are.

Rarity saw for herself the jewel was indeed shaped like one of the jewels of her cutie-mark, colored the same purple as her mane.
“So does yours!”

Fluttershy’s jewel was a pink butterfly, much to her thrill.

“Lookit mine, lookit mine!” Pinkie bounced, her jewel a blue balloon, Applejack’s an orange apple with a green leaf.

“Aw yeah!” Rainbow was feeling pretty good, her jewel a red lightning bolt. 

"I don't understand, why are the Elements of Harmony shape those marks on you?" I asked.

Twilight turned to me and said "First of all, they're called Cutie Marks, second, I'm just confused as you." Cutie Marks? No offense, but that sounds like what a five-year old girl would make up.

"Well Twilight, guess we were wrong about ya. I guess all those stuff wasn't hooey at all." Applejack said smiling softly at her.

"Indeed it was." Huh? Who said that? We all looked through the window, as the sun started to rise through the horizon, as a light came down from the sun, revealing a tall and regal pony, she looked almost look Nightmare Moon due to having both wings and a horn, but her coat was white tinted pink, her mane was flowing with multiple colors, and wore a crown, hoofboots, and a mantle, and her 'cutie-mark' was a shining sun!

"Princess Celestia!" Everypony quickly bowed down to her, but I remaining standing, confused on who she was.

"Ren! Bow down and show some respect!" Twilight said using her magic to force me to bow down.

"H-hey!" I exclaimed getting put down to the ground. 

Princess Celestia only giggled at what was she seeing and said "It is alright Twilight, he is new after all." Princess Celestia, which caused Twilight to stop and blushed.

"It is an honor to meet you, I welcome you to Equestria." Princess Celestia bow to me.

"Um, it's nice to meet you too." I said bowing back to her.

"Princess Celestia, I thought that the Mare On The Moon was just an old pony tale." Twilight asked in confusion.

"I told you that you need to make some friends, nothing more. I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return, and I knew it was you who had the magic inside to defeat her. But you could not unleash it until you let true friendship into your heart. Besides, I am surprised you made friends with an new species." Princess Celestia said turning to me, causing me to blush.

"Y-you're welcome, Princess Celestia." I said. Everypony else smiled happily at me.

“Now if only another would as well,” Celestia spoke, stepping past Twilight. “Princess Luna!” Princess Luna? 

We all looked and were shocked to see that in Nightmare Moon’s place was a little alicorn, surrounded by the remnants of Night Mare Moon’s armor. She had a deep blue coat and gentle blue mane and tail, wore a little black crown, and had the same cutie-mark. She looked nothing like Nightmare moon, as she cringed in fear at the approach of Princess Celestia. So that's Princess Luna, she seems so...scared.

“It has been a thousand years since I’ve seen you like this.”

Luna looked away in shame, Celestia kneeling down to her.
“It's time to put our differences behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister.”

“Sister?!” We all gasped. I never thought that she would be her sister?! 

Celestia stood up, pleadingly asking, “Won’t you accept my friendship?”

Everypony leaned in, hopefully (Pinkie leaning a little too much given she fell on her face), and Luna got up, crying as she nuzzled Celestia, “I’m so sorry! I missed you so much, big sister!”

Celestia shed a tear of joy, replying, “I missed you too!” They both remind me...of my brother and sister. If only I could go back home.

Pinkie let out tears and sobbed, crying as she felt happy for the royal sisters united! But suddenly she stopped (somehow the waterworks vanishing) as she said, “Hey! Y’know what this calls for?”

"What?" I asked.

"Duh! A Party! Oh we should do a party for you as well Rennie! You are new to Ponyville after all!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed throwing confetti in front of me.

"A party? Hmm, I guess I can join, but then again..." I muttered aloud for everypony to hear. How is everyone gonna accept an human like me.

"Do not fear my friend..." We turned to Princess Celestia with a assuring smile. "I'll speak with them, and I'm sure they'll gladly accept you, Ren." Princess Celestia said. I looked at my new friends, who only smiled back at me, and I couldn't help but smile back at them. Hmm, okay, I'll try then.





Later

We all gathered back at Ponyville for Pinkie's Pie party, while everypony was were standing around, gazing at me on stage with Twilight, her friends, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Oh boy, this won't end well.

"Citizens of Ponyville..." Princess Celestia announced. "I know you are confuse and afraid of our new friend here, but I promise, he isn't here to harm you, he help my faithful student, Twilight Sparkle, and his friends defeat Nightmare Moon and bring me back my beloved sister." Princess Celestia said as she nuzzled with her sister.

"And now, I hereby announce that our new friend, Ren Loodan, be welcome to Equestria!" She gestured me to speak up to them. I widen my eyes and look at all the ponies, staring at me in curiosity.

"Um...hello everypony, my name is Ren Loodan. I know my last name is funny, but its actually Estonian for Hope, and I get you all might be afraid of me, but I promise, I will never hurt anypony. At first, I was confuse of myself on how I got here in the first place, but if it wasn't for new friends, Twilight, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash, I wouldn't be here right now. So please everypony, please accept my friendship." I said letting out a sigh, knowing everyone of them are just gonna treat me like garbage and ran me out of town. 

Suddenly, I heard someone clapping their hooves. I looked up and saw one of the ponies clapping for me, and pretty soon, everypony started clapping for me, every single one of them, including Twilight and her friends, and Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. I couldn't help but smile happily at this, I think I'm gonna like it here.

While everyone was enjoying the party, I was busy eating some grub, well I haven't been eaten for like the whole day, so why not. I noticed some ponies admiring me from afar, well there gonna get used to me someday.


"Why so glum, my faithful student? Are you not happy that your quest is complete and that you can return to your studies in Canterlot?"

"That's just it…" Twilight responded. "Just when I learned how wonderful it is to have friends…I have to leave them…"

As she continued speaking, the only thing I could do was watch.

"Spike, take a note, please." Princess Celestia ordered politely.

The baby dragon, Spike, took out a quill to write as Princess Celestia began speaking.

"I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorn Twilight Sparkle shall take on a new journey for Equestria. She must continue to study the magic of friendship. She must report to me her findings from her new home in Ponyville!"

Each of her pony friends gathered around her and cheered.

"Oh thank you, Princess Celestia! I'll study harder than ever before!" Twilight exclaimed.

Every other pony cheered and the party resumed. I smiled softly and continued to eat some of the food. 

"So Ren..." Huh? I turned around and became surprise to see Princess Celestia.

"Oh...Princess Celestia, is there something wrong?" I asked. She motioned me to follow her as we walked away from the party and somewhere nobody could find us.

"So tell me, how far has Equestria has given you?" She asked in a calm tone.

"It's...a nice place, though, I want to go home, but I just don't know how." I said sadly.

"I can understand, though I am surprised to see a new species to Equestria here." She said looking at me for a while.

"Well, in case you don't know, I'm a human, and I live in earth." I said which answered her question.

"I see...so tell me, how did you end here in the first place?" She asked. I started to explain everything. My awakening, and how I can't remember anything, and the spaceship and acquiring the Megaphone Hacking Gun.

"I see..so you can't remember anything, do you?" She asked tilted her head. 

"Yes, though I want to go home, my family is probably worried about where I am." I said sadly.

Princess Celestia smiled softly at me and said "Do not be sad Ren, I can understand how you feel." She said taking a glance towards her sister.

"Um, about Princess Luna, whatever happen that caused her to become Nightmare Moon?" I asked intrigued to know about this.

Princess Celestia let out a sigh and started her story. "It happened 1,000 of years ago, me and Luna ruled Equestria together as sisters, I have the power to lift and bring the sun down, while Luna has the power to lift and bring the moon down." I was surprised to realize this, so they can use their magic to lift the sun and moon, that's...amazing! And they lived for 1,000 years ago? Are they immortal or something.

"Everything was going fine, until Luna realize that everypony only admire the sun, not the moon as they always sleep during the night time, not admiring the moon or the stars." She said in a sad tone.

"That's terrible, back in my world, people always study under the stars and admire them both." I said which made Princess Celestia smile softly at me.

"You know, I must envy you for that, if only that happened 1,000 years ago." Princess Celestia said letting out a sigh.

"What happen next?" I asked.

"One night, when it was time for me to lift the sun, Luna refused to lower the moon, so when I tried to talk to her, she refused to and before you know it, she transformed into Nightmare Moon." I feel bad for her, this was clearly a misunderstanding between the two.

"So Nightmare Moon was made from the negative emotions of Princess Luna, right?" I asked which Celestia nodded her head.

"Yes, she was a powerful opponent, I didn't want to fight her back but I had no choice, so I use the Elements of Harmony to banish my own sister to the moon, ever since then, I felt...alone, every day, I keep thinking about what happen 1,000 years ago and always regretted on the decision I made." Princess Celestia let out a tear, and I honestly felt bad for her.

"It wasn't your fault you know, you didn't have a choice after all. Trust me, I made some bad decisions a long time ago." I said sadly. Princess Celestia smiled softly as she wiped away her tear.

"Anyway Ren, I can understand that you miss your family, but I promise you, I'll help find a way to bring you back to your world." Princess Celestia said, much to my joy.

"Thank you Princess Celestia." I said happily.

"Anytime Ren, by the way, do you any place to stay?" Princess Celestia asked. Actually, no I don't, well except that apartment inside the spaceship.

"Well maybe that apartment spaceship I awoken in, that's all." I said.

"I see, well then, I wish you good luck Ren, oh, and...thank you." I became on what she meant by that.

"For what exactly?" I asked.

"For listening to my story, normally Twilight is always interested in my teachings and such, but then again, I never had anyone who understood my feelings. Thank you so much Ren, and please watch over Twilight." She said before leaning towards me and whisper "She may sometimes can go...paranoid whenever there's something she doesn't understand." I snickered upon hearing that.

"Don't worry, I promise I'll watch over her." I said, which she nodded towards me and we headed back to the party, where Twilight, her friends, Princess Luna, and everypony else was. Hm, I guess I'm gonna get to use to saying that.

"Oh there you are Ren, what were you and Princess Celestia talking about?" She asked.

"Oh just some things...anyway, Twilight, can I ask you something?" I asked, much to her confusion.

"Sure, what is it?" She asked. 

"Can you meet me tomorrow on top of the hill outside of Ponyville? And can you bring the others as well?" I said. Twilight was unsure about why I asked that but agreed to it.

"Sure...why there?" She asked.

"Well...if you want to know how I got here, that's my only lead I got, so can you please help me?" I asked. Twilight smiled softly at me.

"Well of course, we are friends after all." I smiled softly at her for her and the others help.

"Thank you...Twilight." I said happily.

"Oh wait, I forgot!" We turned to Pinkie Pie, who suddenly appeared before me.

"We forgot to throw your "Welcome to Ponyville" Party, I promise I'll make it by tomorrow, I'll see you later Rennie!" Pinkie said as she hopped merrily away, leaving us bewildered by her. I had only one thought in my mind.

"...How the heck did she appear in front of us?"

To Be Continued
> Chapter 2 - Finding Some Answers
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I started to slowly open my eyes and looked around to see myself in a weird place, it was nothing but darkness. Where am I exactly? Suddenly, I started to hear some sobbing, wonder who could be crying? I walked around through the empty darkness until I saw something off a distance. It was a door.

"What's this doing here?" I asked myself. Suddenly, I heard the sobbing sound again, and it was coming through this door. Well, only one way to find out. I walked towards the door and opened it slowly. A bright light appeared once I open the door, causing me to shield my eyes, but I kept walking forward, even when my eyes were closed.

"Where am I now?" I asked looking around the place. Apparently, I saw a light and a bunch of people standing around the light, and they were humans! So wait, is this a dream or something?

"Why...how could this happen to him?" A man spoke up sadly. 

"I think it has something to do with that angry mob that try to hunt him down." A young lady said. Angry mob? What are they talking about? I noticed a bunch of them wearing black and white suits but I couldn't see their faces, are they at a funeral or something, judging by the sad tone their giving.

"He was just an innocent child, it's not his fault he was chosen for it. He didn't deserve it!" A old man clenching his cane angrily. 

"Yeah, he was my favorite customer, always coming to my shop and buying some food and video games, and I would never hunt him down for money and such." A man said, who seemed to be in his later 30s. Wait, favorite customer? Buying food and video games? That almost sounds like....me....wait...

"I know what you mean, I heard that he was always bullied a lot from his school, so he couldn't make any friends there, but he was such a nice kid, why would anyone hate him?" A lady who was in her early 40s said covering her face in tears.

"I even heard that his family didn't take it very well and became depressed that they lost him." A man in his late 20s said. What's going on? All these things their saying, that sounds like me. Just who are they talking about? I walked past through these people and walked towards where they were mourning about. But as soon as I did, I became surprised to see who they were crying about and who's funeral it is!

It was me! I saw a portrait of myself! Why am I at my own funeral?! Does that mean..I'm dead or something?! Just What's going on?! Why is there a funeral about me?! Suddenly, a bright light caused me to cover my eyes again, and before you know it, I blacked out.





"Gah!" I woke up with sweat dripping down my forehead. I looked around and saw that I was in the apartment ship. I remembered everything that happen yesterday, or was it last night? I don't know, a lot happen. I remember everything from what transpire.

Nightmare Moon, talking ponies that can fly and use magic, and gaining the Elements of Harmony and turning Nightmare Moon back to Princess Luna and meeting Princess Celestia for the first time and everypony getting used to me being the first human in Equestria. Wow, a lot really did happen. Oh well, I guess I should get ready now for my second day in Equestria.

I got off my bed and fix it. Apparently, the room where I awoken was still there, I just closed the hidden door, but I know where it was. Anyway, after yesterday, I haven't explore much of the place, but luckily, my new friends are gonna help investigate in order to find anything about my past.

As I went through my closet and put on my clothes from yesterday. Apparently, the only clothes I have are these and apparently, the whole closet was filled with the same clothes I wear. Hmm, maybe I should ask Rarity to make me some new clothes, after all, she is a Fashionista. 

KNOCK-KNOCK-KNOCK!

"Huh?" I came out of my bedroom, with my clothes on and headed for the door. Who could that be? I opened the door, revealing Twilight, Spike, and the other girls.

"Oh hey girls, glad you could make it." I said relief to see them again. 

"Anytime Ren, now then, you asked us to help you search around the house to find anything that can help you remember, right?" Twilight asked, wait a minute, I didn't tell her that much. Twilight noticed that raised brow on how she know that, which caused her to blush. "I-I was told from Princess Celestia last night, when you went to bed." Thought so.

"So this is where you live?" Fluttershy asked as I let them inside. 

"Well no, but it looks like I'll be staying here." I said shrugging my shoulders. Everypony became surprised to see how neat and tidy the place was. 

"So you're Ren Loodan, right?" I turned around to the small purple and green dragon as he smiled at me. "The names Spike, Twilight's Number #1 assistant."

"It's nice to meet you Spike, you know, I'm kinda surprise to be speaking with a dragon." I said which made Spike puff his chest like he was proud of that.

"Well of course, I'm the only dragon that ever live in Canterlot, and now in Ponyville!" He said.

"Huh? Canterlot?" I asked. 

"Oh, it was me and Twilight's old home." He answered back.

"Really? What's it like?" I asked. Before Spike could respond, Rarity stepped aside and answered my question.

"Why Ren, darling, you don't know how much is about Canterlot! Canterlot is the most civilized, the most sophisticated, the most beautiful city a mare could ever dream of living!" Rarity exclaimed as she let out a sigh. Spike and I looked at each other and we just shrugged.

"Wow, it sounds like a really place place..well, for rich people, that is." I said smiling nervously.

"Well, what Rarity is true, but mostly that place is full of snobby ponies who think they're better than anyone, but me and Twilight don't mind." Spike said rolling his eyes.

"Really? That sounds kinda similar to New York City." I said, much to everypony's confusion.

"New York City?" Twilight asked. 

"It's a big place back in my world, full of people, so many traffic, and really good food places, but mostly, people there are just jerks and don't want to do anything with anyone apparently." I said letting out a sigh, I remember one time that I went on a family vacation and we stayed there for two weeks to visit grandma and grandpa. Aww, good times.

"That's so amazing Rennie! You should take us there!" Pinkie said pulling my face closer to hers. 

"Um...Pinkie, how can he go back to his own world when he's stranded in ours?" Applejack asked raising a brow at her. Pinkie realized what she meant and giggled like it was nothing.

"Ooohhh, right, sorry I forgot." I'm starting to have fears around this pink pony.

"It's just so amazing learning some new facts about your planet Ren, oooh, you gotta come to my place sometimes and so I can interview to learn more about you and your kind Ren!" Twilight said getting awe-struck to learn more about my world, and now, I'm started to get fear around her when she's get excited to learn something new.

"Hey, what is this?" We turned to Rainbow Dash, who was looking at the TV curiously.

"That's a TV, it allows you to watch things you like to watch." I could watch a good movie right now, like Star Wars, or Pokemon, or anything on TV.

"Really? Is it power by magic?" Twilight asked.

"No, it works by electricity, but it looks there's no cable for it, so I guess you can only watch movies and shows from DVD, apparently." I said which made the group more confuse, which caused me to sigh again. "A DVD is a disc that allows you to watch movies and TV shows." I explained, which they happily accepted.

"Hey look, there's a bunch of drinks inside!" What? We turned to Pinkie Pie, who apparently found the fridge, and look at it inside, there were many water bottles, soda, and juice inside.

"Whoa, that's a lot of drinks, it could almost last a month or something." I said impressed to see so many of them in one fridge.

"Actually, it looks like it could last for years." Twilight said widening her eyes in surprise to see this all. Last for years? What's up with that?

"Hey, look here!" We turned to Applejack, who apparently found a box full of fruits, vegetables, junk food, sweets, and frozen food, like Pizza and french fries, and many ingredients to make many food. 

"Wow...whoever did this sure knows how to be a hoarder." Rainbow Dash said shocked to see this many food. 

"Looking at all these boxes..." Twilight said as we examined the boxes and saw that had years in them. They said '2018', '2019', '2020', and then some. "It appears that whoever made this ship must've been preparing themselves for something..." Twilight muttered looking through the ships.

"Yeah but...preparing for what?" I asked.

"A party?" We turned to Pinkie as we gave her blank expressions. "What?" 

"Is partying the only thing you can think of, Pinkie?" I asked.

"Yes, why?"

"....never mind.." I said looking away from her. Yep, already been creep out by her.

"Hey Ren, where's that little gun of yours?" Rarity asked noticing that I didn't have it in my hands.

"Oh, it's in my bedroom charging, apparently, it doesn't have infinite energy, come on, I'll show you the bedroom." I said as I led them to the bedroom, it was a pretty normal bedroom, with a twin bed size, and the hidden door, and my closet.

"Wow..this room is so..." Fluttershy couldn't find the right word for it.

"Plain?" Rainbow suggested. We looked at Rainbow with confused looks. "What? I mean this room is pretty normal to me!" She exclaimed. I rolled my eyes and showed them the closet, which was pretty full of clothes.

"Goodness, look at all these clothes, they're one of the same!" Rarity exclaimed.

"Guessing somepony didn't have time to anytime to get any other clothes." Applejack said looking through my wardrobe.

"I guess so, besides it looks like these are the only clothes I'm going to wear while I'm wear, I guess." I said sweat-dropping.

"I will not tolerate for you wearing the same clothes over and over Ren, lucky for you, I'll be happy to help you make some new clothes for you!" Rarity squealed in delight.

"That would be nice Rarity, I was actually gonna come to your shop and ask you make me some new clothes, but I don't have any money, besides even if I do, I think the currency here will be different than from my world." I said sadly.

"Do not worry Ren darling, it's on the house." Well that easy than I thought.

"Say, what's this?" Spike asked pulling out a box. I opened it up, revealing...oh my god, my old gaming consoles!

"Hey, it's my Nintendo Switch, 3DS, and my PS4!" I exclaimed in joy. I noticed everypony looks in confusion. "To put it simply, they allow you to play video games, and I happen to be a big fan to all of them, mostly mystery and adventure games, but hey, what the heck?" I joked.

"Well, I think we have something like that, but not these kind of game consoles." Twilight said examining my PSP. 

"Gee, you sure have a lot of games in here." Rainbow said picking up my Pokemon Sun and Moon case. Huh, haven't play that in a while.

"Yeah, I sure do!" I said, though I am happy to have them. I also found a bunch of movie DVD's, hmm, maybe we should have a movie night sometime soon. I can't believe it though, all my favorite games, movies, tv shows are all here in this spaceship... Hey wait a minute...

"What's wrong Ren? Aren't you happy to see your old stuff again?" Fluttershy asked noticing my troubled expression.

"Yeah, and that's the problem.." I said, much to everypony's confusion.

"What are you talking about, darling?" Rarity asked.

"How did someone know my favorite games and such, this doesn't make sense. Now that I think about it, how do they know my clothes size, my favorite movies, and almost everything about me?" I asked. Everypony realized that I was right, how could someone know a normal average kid like me in the first place?

"That is weird..." Twilight muttered. 

"Um..hey guys, check this out." We turned to Spike, who apparently found the hidden door to the room I awoken. "I was leaning against the wall, waiting for you guys to be done with, when I accidentally slipped and before you know it, I found this room." Spike explained.

"A hidden door? Wow, that's so cool!" Rainbow Dash getting excited. 

"Oooh, maybe we'll find hidden treasures, or maybe a bunch of candy! Oh wait, better yet, candy treasure!" Pinkie exclaimed. 

"Candy Treasure? Really Pinkie?" I asked with a raised brow.

"What? They're delicious!" Whatever, anyway, we through the hidden door, where we find the white lab room. 

"Just what is this place?" Applejack asked looking at the old abandon room.

"This...is where I woke up." Everypony looked at me in shock and surprised to find out that this is the place where I first awoken in Equestria.

"This place...is where you awoken from your slumber, right?" Twilight asked. I nodded my head and showed them the chamber I awoken.

"This is the chamber where I first woke up." I said remembering myself waking up in shock and confusion.

"Wow...this is something you find in a horror house or something." Spike said gazing at the chamber. 

"Ren...do you remember how you got here?" Fluttershy asked in a concern expression. I thought for a while, but nothing.

"No...not at all." I said sadly. Why can't I remember anything? Do I have amnesia or something?

"Hmm, maybe there's a spell in one of the books back at the library could help Ren." Twilight suggested, much to my confusion.

"A spell?" I asked.

"Yes, you see, I think there was a spell that can help you remember something from your past Ren." I was happy to hear that Twilight could a spell that help me through my amnes-





I suddenly had a 'flash before your eyes' moment as I remember seeing myself closing my eyes, like I was in deep in thought, suddenly, I saw myself with a..weird machine on my head and it seems I was in some weird facility. W-what's going on?





"GAH!" I gasped in shock.

"Whoa, you okay Ren?!" Spike asked in worry. 

"Y-yeah, I'm alright, just a h-headache, that's all." I said nervously. What could it be? What was that? Could it been..a fragment of my memories?

"Well looks like that's all we can learn today.." Twilight said looking around the lab. Yeah, I guess she's right, we won't find anything here for now.

"Say Rennie!" Pinkie appeared in front of me, as usual.

"Yes Pinkie?" I asked.

"Can you Pinkie Promise that you meet me in Applejack's barn?" Pinkie asked grinning at me. I looked at Applejack, who only shrugged. 

"Okay..but where is Applejack's barn?" I asked.

"It's up north from Ponyville, don't worry Sugarcube, I know you'll find your way up there." Applejack said with a reassuring smile.

"Okay, I'll go meet up in the barn later today." I said shrugging my shoulders.

"Wait, you forgot the Pinkie Promise!" Pinkie exclaimed. Oh right, well I know I'm kinda old to do that, but I like to do that with my sister sometimes. I shrugged my shoulders and began the pinkie promise chant:

"Cross my heart, hope to die, stick a needle in my eye." I said, which made Pinkie confused.

"No no no, not that!" She exclaimed, making me confuse.

"Huh? But how people say it back from where I'm from!" I said. There's no other Pinkie Promise song, it's the only one.

"Silly Rennie, it's like this! Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!"...okay, no offense, but that's the weirdest thing I've ever heard.

"I...see...I'll try to remember that." I said nervously.

"Good Rennie..." Pinkie said as she patted my head. "But remember, be there in the afternoon, and better keep your Pinkie Promise!" Pinkie exclaimed before she left the lab through the hidden door.

"Okay...does she always do that?" I asked them.

"Apparently so, but it's best if didn't break Pinkie Pie's Pinkie promise." Rarity said looking all nervous.

"Why's that?" I asked in confusion.

"Yeah, actually now that I think about it, what would happen if we break Pinkie's promise?" Twilight asked also wanted to know about it. What? It's not like she's gonna get all angry and become a monster and tries to beat me for breaking a single promise....right?

"It's just that..well.." Fluttershy was started to get all nervous for some reason. Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash were also nervous too. What's wrong with them?

"What's wrong?" I asked in concern.

"Just...be there! Gotta go bye!" Rainbow exclaimed before she bolted out of here, so did Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy. We all became surprised by the sudden reactions they gave out.

"Wonder what's up with them?" Spike asked in confusion.

"Yeah...oh well, I'll see you later Ren." Twilight said as she and Spike waved goodbye and left the lab, possibly my new home. I was about to walk out until I stopped and looked at the chamber. Why am I here? Why me of all people? I'm just a normal average kid. There's just gotta be an answer to all of this somewhere. Oh well, I guess I can eat some breakfast, I haven't eat this morning.





So anyway, it was the afternoon and I was headed towards Applejack's barn. I followed the directions Applejack told me and finally arrived. It was a really big apple orchard, wow, Applejack and her family must've worked really hard in order to get so many apple trees.

I looked around and saw a sign that says "Sweet Apple Acres" on it. So that's the name of this ranch, well, I guess it makes sense since her name is Applejack and she does run an Apple farm with her family.

I looked around and notice somepony walking by. It was tall red pony carrying a wagon full of apples, his Cutie-Mark was a sliced green apple. Maybe he works here, he could help me find the barn Pinkie told me to go to.

"Um..excuse me?" The tall red pony noticed me and became surprised of my appearance. I guess I can understand, after all, this is the first time he's meeting a human after all. 

"Um, I'm sorry if I frighten you, I promise, I'm not a bad guy. Anyway, I was suppose to meet someone at a barn around here. Do you know where it is?" I asked him.

"Eeyup!" He nodded happily. 

"You do? Well can you tell me where it is?" I asked.

"Eeyup!" He said as he pointed towards the south, so that's where it is.

"Okay, thank you, oh, and my name is Ren Loodan, nice to meet you mister..uh.." Honestly, I completely forgot to ask his name.

"Big Macintosh.." He said introducing himself as Big Macintosh. Hmm, okay, I'll try to remember that.

"Okay, thank you so much Big Macintosh!" I said as headed for the barn. He wasn't too surprised by my appearance, guess he's the cool and calm type of person-er, I mean pony. I really need to get used to that language. Anyway, I finally arrived to the barn and knocked on it.

"Hey Pinkie, Applejack, Twilight, I'm here.." I said, but no answer. That's odd, they told me that they'll be here. I wonder if they're late or did something happen? Suddenly, the doors open by itself, well I guess it wouldn't hurt to enter and wait for them here.

As I enter the place, I was immediately taken in by surprise by the lights turning on and a bunch of ponies, including Twilight and the others.

"SURPRISE!" They exclaimed. Whoa...is this a party..for me?!

"So Rennie, were you surprise?!" Pinkie asked hopping around me.

"Yeah...but it's not my birthday." I said in confusion.

"Nah, it's one of Pinkie Pie's "Welcome To Ponyville" Party, she does that to those who are new to Ponyville!" Rainbow Dash said wearing a party hat.

"That's right Rennie!" Pinkie said blowing one of those Party favors. "But this is a special occasion!"

"A special occasion? How?" I asked.

"Well since you're a new species to Equestria, I decided to make a "Welcome To Ponyville/Welcome to Equestria" Party!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed. I don't believe it, they made a party...for me...this is the best thing I've ever seen.

"So..how do you like Ren?" Twilight asked smiling at me.

"Its...amazing, thank you guys. But you don't have to spoil me, I didn't want to waster any of you guys time." I said feeling bad for myself.

"Oh no no no, darling, we didn't spoil for you. This party is for our new friend from the stars, after all, we all did this for you." Rarity said showing me some of the Ponyville Citizens.

"You guys really think of me...as a friend?" I asked.

"Well of course Ren, after all, you helped us all go through the terrible Everfree Forest." Fluttershy said stil shivering in fear upon mentioning that name. 

"And you help us retrieve the Elements of Harmony." Rainbow added.

"And you help us defeat Nightmare Moon and made me realize that Friendship is important." Twilight said happily, causing me to blush in embarrassment.

"Aww, it was nothing you guys.." I muttered nervously.

"It wasn't for nothing, you save our town!" A black Pegasus with a blue mo-hawk mane said as everypony who came to the party clapped for me. Really, I was just helping from the sidelines, that's all.

"Indeed Mr. Loodan..." I turned to a pale brown mare wearing glasses and a vest. Well that's new, I never expected to see a pony to wear a vest actually.

"I don't think we were properly introduced yet, my name is Mayor Mare, and I'm the mayor of Ponyville." Mayor Mare? And another weird name, but get to used to it.

"It's nice to meet you Ms. Mare." I said nervously smiling at her. She let out a laugh and said.

"Please call me Mayor Mare, anyway, we all want to say sorry for being afraid of you from yesterday's...incident, but we now we see that you are friendly, and I hereby announce you the new citizen to Ponyville!" She handed me some kind of paper and handed to me. I looked over it and apparently, it was a citizenship certificate, they really did all this for me? That's so...awesome!

"Thank you...Mayor Mare." I said smiling softly at her. She nodded her head as everypony smiled happily at this, you know, I think I'm really gonna like it here.

"Alright everypony, enough chit-chat! Let's party!" Everypony began enjoying the party and started to dance around. I smiled softly at everypony enjoying the party.

"So..how is your party, Ren?" I turned to see a familiar yellow Pegasus, smiling softly at me.

"Oh..it's okay Fluttershy, though, it's nice to have some people-I mean, some ponies to care for me." I said sadly. I wished my family was here, but no matter how hard I tried to keep wishing, they won't come back. 

"Ren?" Fluttershy asked feeling worried about me. 

"Oh it's nothing Fluttershy, thanks for you and your making this party for me." I said nervously.

"Anytime Ren, and don't worry, I'm sure you'll get back home!" Fluttershy said giving me a hug. I blushed lightly from being hug by her, wait, why am I blushing?

"Thanks, I needed that! Now come let's party!" I said as begin to have a good time in the party. You know, even if I'm stuck on Equestria, I'm gonna like it here, besides for the first time...I finally made friends, sure maybe they aren't human, but maybe this is my chance, to finally learn the Magic of Friendship, and don't worry mom, dad, Jonas, Lillie, I promise I'll get back home.

To Be Continued.
> Chapter 3 - The Golden Ticket
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I awoke from the knock from my door. Huh, my third day in Equestria finally begin, you know, I should get a Calendar, scratch that, I need a Calendar! How in the world can I know what day it is? Oh well, I guess it is time to get up anyway.

I got off the bed and put on my clothes and also grabbed my Megaphone Hacking Gun, just to be safe. I headed over and open the door, revealing Twilight and Spike.

"Hey Ren, sorry if I woke up too early." Twilight said with a sheepish smile.

"Nah, I'm good Twilight, so what's up?" I asked.

"Well I was heading over to Applejack's farm to help, and I was thinking if you could come and help me out as well?" She asked. Hmm, I guess why not, besides I could use some practice with the Hacking Gun.

"Sure, let's go." I said as we headed out to Applejack's farm. That party yesterday was so amazing, we had cake, drank some apple cider, but I partly refused at first because you know, it wasn't good for you back in my world, but here, all they do is just use apples to make it so good and sweet. Then, the dancing, okay, I'll admit, I'm not much of a good dancer, but what the heck? I gave it a go, besides nobody mind if my dance was terrible anyway.

Anyway, we finally arrived to the barn, where we met up with Applejack.

"Well howdy Twilight, I see you brought Spike and Ren to help out, eh?" Applejack asked.

"Yep, that's right." Twilight nodded her head.

"Anytime Applejack, so now let's get to work, then?" I said as we began to harvest many apples, but there were so many of them, how does she do it? 

I came up to one of the apple trees and looked at it for while. This is going to be difficult to get some out of that tree, but suddenly, I heard a whacking sound as I turned to see Applejack, who was kicking the tree, causing many apples to fall down. I also noticed Twilight using her magic to bring many apples down, lucky them.

Hmm, maybe I could try to do something with my Hacking Gun. I set my Hacking Gun to 'Knock-back' and pointed it at the tree.

"Okay, Knockback!" I shouted as a beam of wind came out of the Hacking Gun and hit the tree, causing a dozen of apples to fall down, much to my joy.

"Awesome!" I exclaimed until a couple of apples hit my head. "OW!" I shouted in pain. I heard some snickering coming from the mares from the performance I did, much to my chagrin. I also noticed Spike sitting lazily on Twilight's back, lucky dragon.

"Good job Ren, but next time, try to do it off a distance." Applejack said as she continued to kick more apple trees.

We continued to harvest apples, and thanks to the harvesting, I was starting to get more better on using the Hacking Gun. I only got it for a couple of days, and now I feel like I already had experience with it. 

Once we were done, we group up together and began walking back to the barn.

"Thank you kindly Twilight and Ren, for helping me out. I bet Big Macintosh I could get all these golden delicious in the barn by lunchtime." Applejack thanked with a hop, while Spike was on Twilight's back tossing out Apples with a "Nope" for each one. "If I win, he's going to walk down stir up street in one of grandma's girdles!" I couldn't hold in my laughter upon hearing that bet.

"Okay...that would be something I would like to see!" I exclaimed happily. Just imagine, a big pony like him wearing a old lady outfit, now that would be the most funniest thing I've ever seen! Oh boy, where's a camera when you need one?

"I know, right?" Applejack asked as she laughed alongside me.

"No problem at all, Applejack. I'm glad the goal is lunchtime. All this hard work is making me hungry!" Twilight replied as her belly started to growl, much to her embarrassment. Come to think of it, I never had anything for breakfast. I guess why not to eat some apples for breakfast.

"I know, right?" Spike interrupted, as he tossed another apple which bounced off of Twilight's head, much to her annoyance.

"Oh really, Spike? You've been lounging on my back all morning while WE worked!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Exactly!" Spike responded. "You guys were taking SO long that I missed snack time!" 

"No offense Spike, but Twilight is right. It would've been nice if you could help us besides worrying about food." I said which caused my stomach to growl. I laughed nervously upon this, well this was embarrassing. "Well I guess we better get some food. Besides, we already finish harvesting the apples anyway."

Spike continued sorting through the apples in the baskets, tossing out ones that he didn't like for some reason, I don't know. "AHA!" I glanced at him and saw that he pulled out a bright red shiny apple from the basket.

Twilight and I licked our lips upon seeing it. "Oh, Spike! That looks delicious!" Twilight said locking her eyes on it. Unfortunately, Spike immediately swallow the whole thing in his mouth and ate it.

"Spike!" Twilight scolded him.

"What?" Spike asked, oblivious to know the glares we gave him.

"Spike, couldn't you share that apple with us?!" I asked, starting to get more hungry. Aw well, we have plenty of apples, so I guess I eat some and be happy about it. Suddenly, Spike started to feel sick for some reason. "Spike you okay?" I asked in worry.

"Don't worry Ren, I'm fine-" Suddenly, Spike immediately burped something out of his mouth, which was a scroll! Okay, what the heck? How the heck did that appear?

Twilight gasped upon noticing it. "It's a letter from Princess Celestia!" 

"How can you tell?" I asked. 

"Well she always write letters to me and puts an insignia on her letters." Twilight showed me the insignia, it was a golden mark on it, and if you took a closer look, it has a sun marking on it.

"Oh okay, but why would Princess Celestia messages come out of Spike?" I asked curiously.

"Well, she thought it would be a good idea to send me messages like that." Twilight said smiling sheepishly. Sending messages through a dragon? I...don't think that's the weirdest thing I've seen since I first arrived in Equestria.

"Yeah right..." Spike muttered.

"So, what's it say?" Applejack asked. 

Spike grabbed the letter and cleared his throat. He opened the letter and read what was inside. "Here ye, Here ye! Your grand royal highness, Princess Celestia, of Equestria is pleased to announce the Grand Galloping Gala to be held in the magnificent capital of Canterlot on the 21st day of...yadda yadda yadda..." Oh man, did he seriously skip some of the part? I need to know what month we're in or even the day! I seriously need a calendar. "Cordially extends an invitation to Twilight Sparkle plus one guest!"

Both Applejack and Twilight gasped upon hearing this. "The Grand Galloping Gala!" They exclaimed in unison as they began to jump around and dance, repeating the same words over and over again.

"Um...what's the Grand Galloping Gala?" I asked, which caused them to gasp and looked at me in shock.

"You don't know what the Grand Galloping Gala is?!" Twilight asked.

"No..that's why I ask. Twilight, did you forget that I'm not from around here?" Twilight blushed upon realizing this.

"Oh...right..ha ha. Anyway, it's only THE annual royal ball held in Canterlot!" Twilight exclaimed in happiness.

"So what you're saying is...a fancy theme party, right?" I asked, which they nodded. Well, count me out, I'm not that type of person who is good in fancy parties, I don't even how to act fancy besides my politeness and optimism towards others. "I...see..." I muttered, not feeling interest in it. Spike looked annoyed and he opened his mouth to make a disgusted look, well, at least there somepony else who thinks the same thing as me. Suddenly, Spike burped out two golden tickets.

"Look! Two Tickets!" He announced.

"Wow! Great! I've never been to the Gala, have you Spike?" Twilight asked in excitement.

"No! And I plan to keep it that way! I don't want any of the girly frilly froo-froo nonsense." Spike replied crossing his arms in a huff. 

"Yeah me too, I'm...not good in fancy parties." I said with a awkward smile.

"Aw, come on Spike, Ren! A dance would be nice!" Twilight complained.

"Nice?" Applejack interrupted. "It's a heap good more than just nice. I'd love to go. Land sakes, if I had an apple stand set up, ponies would be chowing our tasty vittles till the cows came home." 

"Really, why's that?" I asked.

"Do you have any idea how much business I could drum up for Sweet Apple Acres?" I shook my head from Applejack's question. "Why, with all that money, we could do a heap of fixing up around here. We could replace that saggy old roof, and Big Macintosh could replace that saggy old plow, and Granny Smith could replace that saggy old hip. Why, I'd give my left hind leg to go to that gala."

"Okay...." I said awkwardly, well that's...one reason for you to go to the Gala.

"Oh...well in that case..since both Spike and Ren won't go..would you like to-" 

"Are we talking about the Grand Galloping Gala?!" Twilight was cut-off as Rainbow Dash fell on top of me. 

"OW!" I exclaimed. 

"Whoops, sorry." Rainbow said sheepishly as she got off of me. Well, didn't see that one coming.

"Rainbow Dash! You told me you were too busy to help me harvest apples! What were you busy doing? Spying?" Applejack demanded in a suspicious manner.

"No!" Rainbow Dash immediately responded but acted all nervous. "I was..busy napping." Of course you were Dash. "And I just happened to hear that you have an extra ticket?" Rainbow Dash looked at the golden tickets, oh boy, this can't be good.

"Yeah but..."

"Yes!" Rainbow Dash said interrupting Twilight once again. "This is so awesome! The Wonderbolts perform at the Grand Galloping Gala every year! I can see it now...." 

"Isn't the Wonderbolts that famous Air Relay Team in Equestria?" I asked remembering something about them.

"You know it!" Rainbow Dash said giving me a hard pat on the back. "If I can show them my moves, I'm sure to be a Wonderbolt in a flash! Twilight, you have got to take me!" 

"Wait a minute, you want to go there just because you want to show off your moves to the Wonderbolts?" I asked in disbelief. Rainbow nodded her head happily as I gave out a blank stare. "You have got to be kidding me..." I muttered in disbelief.

"Now hold your horses, Rainbow!" Applejack shoved me away and leered at Rainbow Dash. "Twilight already asked me to come with her to the Gala first."

"Well actually-"

"So?! You don't own it, Applejack!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed once again interrupting Twilight. They both glared at each other into each other's face. "I'll hoof-wrestle you for it!"

"You're on!" Both of them ran over to a stump and began  'hoof-wrestling' each other for the ticket. I got up and rubbed off some dirt out of me. I shook my head at them for their complete stubborness, they act just like kids.

I walked to Twilight and Spike, who were watching Applejack and Rainbow fight over the ticket. "So should we leave them like this?" I asked.

"Yeah...let's go.." Twilight said as we left them to solve their own business, you know, something tells me that the others won't solve this golden ticket issue in a friendly manner.





"Ooh, what am I going to do? Who should I choose?" Twilight asked as she looked at her ticket. She was still indecisive on who to go with. Anyway, we were walking around town to eat something for lunch since a little somepony completely forgot we were even here and was busy hoof-wrestling with her own friend.

"It'll take some time Twilight, you just need to make the right choice." I shrugged. Suddenly, we accidentally bumped into somepony, causing Twilight to drop the tickets.

"Are those...?" Oh no, please don't tell me who I think it is. I open my eyes to see a familiar pink pony gasping loudly as she read the description of the golden tickets. "Tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala!?" Oh boy, this can't be good.

"Let me guess, you want to go too?" I asked.

"Yes!" She said as she pulled my hand and dragged me to...where the heck am I? I was some weird place a little kid would come up, as confetti and streamers started to rain down on some party. "It's the most amazing incredible tremendous super-fun wonderfully humongous parties in all of Equestria!" I've always always always wanted to go!"

"Wait a minute, where am I? What the heck's happening?!" I exclaimed in shock as some music began to play as Pinkie Pie began to sing, dragging me further into the imaginative world.


Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me
Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me
Hip hip
Hooray!
It's the best place for me
For Pinkie!


"Uhh, Pinkie!? I have no idea where you took me, and I want to come back to reality now!" Unfortunately, my please were ignored as the mare continued describing everything she expected to see at the Grand Galloping Gala! Seriously, what's happening?!

"With decorations like streamers and fairy-lights and pinwheels and piñatas and pincushions!" Pinkie smacked a piñata with a stick, sending candy flying everywhere as she dragged me over to more of what she wanted to see. "And goodies like sugar cubes and sugar canes and sundaes and sun beams and sarsaparilla! And I get to play my favorite-est of favorite games like Pin the Tail on the Pony!"

Pinkie poked the tail for the game on the board on a wall, only for me to yelp at a sharp prick on my butt. I turned around, finding a fake tail sticking on my butt, causing me to be more shock than ever.

"WHAT IS HAPPENING TO ME!?" I screamed out as my brain has already exploded several times seeing this. Now am I questioning the logic in this world.


Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me
Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me
'Cause it's the most galarrific superly-terrific gala ever
In the whole galaxy
Wheeee!


Suddenly, me and Pinkie were brought back to reality, where I was stuck in a fetal position, my pupils shrink as I began to rock myself in fear. 

"Ren? Are you okay?" Spike asked, as he, Twilight and Pinkie looked over me in worried and confusion.

"Is there any way you guys can knock me out from what I just experience just now?" I asked as I began to suck my thumb, I want my mommy, for reals this time!

"Aww, I guess I accidentally brought Ren into my head, oops." Pinkie said sheepishly, which made Twilight and Spike confused on what she meant.

"There is something completely wrong with you!" I exclaimed, not that Pinkie mind. "How did you do that?! Where was I?! Why was there a fake pony tail on my butt?!" 

"Yep, I made him crazy alright. One second everypony!" Pinkie said as she took out a large hammer out of her mane, I looked closer and saw some letters on it that says "Forget Everything that Made You Go Bonkers because of Pinkie Pie's 4th Wall Breaking", wait, what the heck?! Is she pulling more crazy stuff at me?! "This will hurt only a second."

"Wait what-" Before I could finish, I immediately blacked out. Five seconds later, I started to wake up and saw Twilight and Spike with widen eyes and Pinkie..grinning for some reason. Wait, what just happen?

"Uh...Why am I on the ground and sucking my thumb?" I asked noticing my thumb in my mouth.

"Oh nothing, I was just singing a song about what would I do at the gala." Pinkie responded as she had the tickets resting on her nose.

Unfortunately, the tickets were taken off of Pinkie's nose as they were encased in a blue aura. We followed the blue aura, only to find Rarity was the one who took them.

"Grand Galloping Gala Tickets?!" She exclaimed, squealing in delight. "I design outfits for the Gala, but never have I ever attended!" Oh no...

"Oh no..." Twilight groaned as yet another of our friends wanted to go with their own reasons.

"Oh, how I would love to go to the Gala! Oh Canterlot! The society and culture...and that's where I am destined to meet...'him'..."

"Him?" I asked. "Who are you talking about Rarity?"

"Why Princess Celestia's nephew, Prince Blueblood." Rarity swooned as she started to go to her fantasy. I looked at her with widen eyes upon hearing about this, since when did Princess Celestia have a nephew?!

"Oh, a handsome princes, and an eligible unicorn stallion. I would arrive at the ball, wearing my best made gown specifically designed for the Gala, and our eyes would meet. We would fall in love, courting me like the gentlecolt he is, and then, when the time is right, he would ask me for my hoof in marriage, and of course I would answer 'Yes'! The stallion of my dreams as my husband, a royal wedding, and I will be his princess!"

So she wants to go to the Gala to meet a prince and date him to live happily ever after? That's seem farfetch'd but whatevs.

"But...what if he isn't that type of guy-I mean, stallion you think and talk about?" I asked.

"Oh nonsense Ren, I just know he's so charming and handsome, and...dreamy...." Rarity was once again in fantasy land as she continued to daydream of meeting the prince.

"Right..." I said as I took away the tickets from her and was giving them back to Twilight, but then suddenly, a white rabbit grabbed them from my hands. 

"What the?! Hey!" I exclaimed as I chased after the rabbit. The rabbit continued to hop over and over until he skidded to a halt in front of Fluttershy.

"Oh...H-hello, Ren." She greeted me nervously. 

"Oh hey Fluttershy, sorry but your pet rabbit just stole Twilight tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala." I said as I realized what I just said. Oh god dang it!

"The Grand Galloping Gala?!" Fluttershy asked, sounding a little excited with her quiet voice. "Oh, Angel, that's perfect."

"His name...is Angel?" I asked in a blank expression. You have got to be kidding me right now, it's name should be Devil after it did just now. I glared at the rabbit, who led his tongue out at me, which I did the same. I prefer a dog or a cat any day.

"So, why do you want to the Gala so badly?" I asked. I bet it has something animal related to this.

"Umm...well, it's not actually the gala itself that interests me....I'm actually more interested in the gardens at the castle." Yep, I called it. "There's a lot of interesting flowers there, and even cute little animals, some of them not even anywhere in Equestria. I want to go there and see every single critter and be their friend." Wait, animals that aren't from Equestria? I thought that Equestria was the only place in this whole planet? Huh, I guess I was wrong.

"I...see...." I said as I grabbed the tickets from Angel's mouth, as I let out my tongue and pull my eye at him. Ha, that'll show you to never mess with me!

"Hey!" Oh boy, I turned around to see Rainbow Dash flying in, landing in front of me and glared at me and the tickets I had in my hands. "So...you think you can just take those tickets for your own, huh Ren?!"

"And something tells me that you lost the hoof-wrestling to Applejack, right?" The blue Pegasus growled in anger, yep, I was right, she's just too stubborn to admit it. 

"Whatever! That's none of your business Loodan! Now give me those tickets!" Rainbow then lunged at me and pushed me to the ground and swiped the tickets, only for the others to try and get them first.

"Hey, Twilight gave me her other ticket first, Rainbow Dash!" Applejack exclaimed.

"No, me!" Pinkie said as she popped up underneath me, and bumping my chin with her hard skull.

Soon, the five mares began to argue with each other, all for just one golden ticket. I feel as though this reminds me of that one time when I watch that move, Willy and the Chocolate Factory, when that young poor boy found the last golden ticket and soon, pretty much everybody started to try to fight over the ticket by either giving him money, or free stuff, and this scene right here, is almost exactly like it!

I noticed Twilight was started to have some troubles too, apparently. She has a difficult time on who to pick and was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. No, this has to stop, I don't want to see my new friends to fight each other for just a measly golden ticket.

"ENOUGH!" I shouted as I shot my Hacking Gun towards them, which caused them to be froze in shock because I set it onto 'Paralyze'. They began to get shocked and frozen from the affects until it was done. Once so, everypony looked at me with angry glares. 

I let out a sigh and looked at them with a stern expression. "I have had it with you all! You all are fighting over this ticket like you're kids or something, well I had enough of this! I understand you guys have reasons to go to the Gala, well at least some have really good reasons other than selfish ones!" Rainbow growled at me for mentioning that.

"The point is that Twilight had the tickets first! So she decides who gets the other ticket, so stop fighting each other or else!" I exclaimed in anger, silencing the five mares completely, well except for Rainbow Dash.

"Yeah, or else what?" Need you even ask? I held up my Hacking Gun and pointed it towards her, causing her to widen her eyes in shock upon realizing what I can do. "Oh....right...." Rainbow said as she completely shut her mouth once and for all.

I put my Hacking Gun behind me and softened my expression. "Good, now remember, we're Twilight's first actual friends since she came to Ponyville. So please don't stress her out." I said as I stuffed the tickets in my hoodie pocket. I gestured Twilight and Spike to follow me to go and eat at a food joint, because I can't think on an empty stomach.





After that discussion was settled, me, Twilight, and Spike headed to a nearby restaurant, looking over the menu. 

"Finally, do you guys hear that?..." I asked.

"Hear what, Ren?" Spike asked raising a brow.

"Yep, that's right, nothing....silence." I whispered towards them. Spike snickered upon realizing that, I just hope those girls just calm down and talk about this in a friendly way. 

Anyway, I looked at the menu and became confused by all the food names. "Uhh, is there any normal food? Because I see way too many...flower meals." I asked.

"Well, that's what ponies eat, Ren." Spike said, taking a sip of his soda. Oh that's right, they're ponies, of course they have to eat something non-meat, I didn't real think of that.

"Actually, I never did knew about your kinds find diet, Ren." Twilight pointed out.

"Oh yeah, we ate some kind of stuff like vegetables, fruits, junk food, meat, and-"

"Whoa whoa whoa, hold up, did you say...meat?!" Spike asked widening his eyes at me. Why would he-

Oh..dang it.

"Wait...you're saying, that you and your kind eat meat?!" Twilight exclaimed as everypony from the restaurant looked at us in confusion.

"Yeah, I'm so sorry, I didn't really mean to bring it up that like! I didn't know you guys didn't eat-"

"I get it Ren! Just keep your voice down!" Twilight said putting her hoof on my mouth. She turned to the other ponies and laughed nervously. Everypony looked at us for a while and just shrugged and went back to mind their own business. Phew, that was a close call.

"I'm sorry." I said sadly.

"It's okay Ren, though I'm surprise that you eat meat!" Twilight exclaimed quietly.

"Yeah I know...that's how we live, but don't worry, there are some animals we can't eat as they're known as endangered animals since their population is decreasing, so we only eat animals that population will last for a very long time." I explained.

"I see...interesting." Twilight said both surprised and amazed to know this. "Well I'm sorry Ren, but you can't eat meat around Equestria, who knows what everypony would do if they found out." Actually, I never real thought of that, this will be a little secret of mine to keep from the others, including our new friends.

"Well...I guess I'm just gonna eat what they have in store here in Equestria, then." I said letting out a sigh.

"Just don't bring it to anypony, including our friends, okay?" Twilight asked. I nodded my head and we ordered our food, and we waited for our waiter to bring our food. While we wait, I looked over Twilight, who seemed a little bothered, probably because of her decision over who would go with her to the Gala. 

"You okay, Twilight?" I asked feeling worried about her.

"...I-I'm fine." She said. She barely touched her beverage, messing around with the straw in her glass. "...I just don't know who to choose. I mean, if I go, and I choose one of them, then four of them will be disappointed. But if I give up my ticket to someone else, that still leaves three of them!" Twilight slammed her head on the table, I quickly moved her drink away before she spilled it all over herself. "It's an impossible mathematical problem that can't ever be resolved."

"Try not to stress too much about it Twilight." I said patting her head. "You need to relax a little more. I know you'll find the answer to this problem, after all, every puzzle has an answer." I said proudly.

"Yeah, he's right Twilight, you'll make the right choice." Spike added. Our food was brought out, I'm having a hay burger, Spike having hay fries, and Twilight ordering a plain daffodil and daisy sandwich.

Twilight thought for a while and smiled softly at me. "Yeah, I guess you're right, thanks Ren, and nice advice you gave me." Twilight said smiling happily at me, but should I tell her that I got that saying from a video game?

As we were about to eat our food, some ponies started to head inside for some strange reason. Wonder what's up with them?

"Excuse me." The waited said, getting our attention. "Are you sure you all want to eat your food in the rain?" 

"Rain?" Me, Twilight, and Spike said in unison as we looked around and saw that the entire area was getting soaking wet, but from where we're sitting, it was just sunny and clear.

"That's weird, does this normally happen?" I asked.

"No..but who-"

"Hey you guys!" We looked up and saw a familiar blue Pegasus mare giving us a toothy grin, I also noticed a hole in the clouds devoid of any rain.  "Don't wanna have lunch on such a crummy day, right?!"

"Rainbow Dash...are you trying to act nice around Twilight to make her choose you to go to the Gala?" I asked getting suspicious of her.

"What?! Pfft! No, I'm just making sure my two bestest friends in all of Equestria are completely dry!" I let out a sigh and gave her an annoyed look. "So, about that ticket..."

I grab my Hacking Gun and set it to 'Knock-Back' and pointed it towards her. "Knock-Back." I shot it, causing a gust of wind to blow the cloud away, and due to how strong it was, Rainbow Dash couldn't go through it and caused her to fall back to the ground.

"Well, looks like my lunch got spoil today." I said shaking my head at her. 

"Twilight! There you are! I need to ask you something, mare to mare!" Huh? Twilight were suddenly snatched into a blue aura and was snatched away by Rarity.

"You have got to be kidding me, right now..." I muttered in disbelief. I got up and ran after them, why couldn't any of them listen to me?





I immediately looked around Ponyville in search of Twilight and Rarity. Hmm, if I was a fashionista mare, where would I be? I looked around until I notice a giant building that almost looks like a merry-go-round. Hmm, wait a minute, Rarity told me that she own a store call the Carousel Boutique, so if I'm right...yep, that has to be the place.

I rushed towards the place and charged through the doors, seeing Twilight being put on a dress by Twilight by Rarity. 

"Rarity!" Rarity stopped and looked at me in surprise. "Rarity, are you really going to be that desperate to get her to take you to the Gala?!" I exclaimed as I took Twilight away from her as soon as she took off the outfit.

"Ren, what luck! I have a dashing outfit for you to wear that will go perfectly with your style! It took me all night but I finally got it right with your size!" Rarity said as she blinked innocently at me, like she was trying to win me over, well it ain't happening. "You could be my escort, until I meet Prince Blueblood, that is."

"No, that ain't happening!" I said poking her snout. "Stop being too nice to Twilight to make her choose you!" I exclaimed as I ran out of the boutique with Twilight. 

"I think we lost them." I said as ran away five miles from Rarity. I know that mare is generous, but she's acting too generous. 

"Thanks for saving me back there, Ren." Twilight thanked me. 

"Anytime Twilight-Whoa!" Me and Twilight were immediately dragged away, I looked at my legs and saw a lasso wrapped around our feet. Oh god, please don't tell me its-

"Hey, good thing I caught you!" Applejack laughed at that ridiculous pun. Behind her was a cart filled to the brim with apple products, the tantalizing scent making Twilight's mouth water, well she wasn't the only one, I was too. I haven't any lunch since Rarity snatched Twilight away, forcing me to go find her. "I got some food I was hauling, and I thought you all might want some."

As much of our stomach's loud rumbling demanded food, Twilight snapped. "NO!If this is some kind of bribe, you're not making this easier for me! I don't know who I want to give the ticket to! I CAN"T DECIDE!"

She ran off, leaving me and Applejack stunned at what she said. I glared back at Applejack for what she did as she smiled nervously at me. "Uhh, was that a maybe?" She asked.

"Are you serious right now, Applejack?! Bribing her with food?! What's wrong with you?!" I exclaimed in anger as I ran after for Twilight, she probably headed back home. 

As I ran to the library, I eventually caught up with Spike, he probably heading to the library too. "Ren, what happened to Twilight?! I saw her running by and she was crying!"

"I don't think her friends are helping her make her decision more easier. She's getting more and more stressed by their 'generous'." I explained as we finally arrived to the Golden Oak Library.

But as soon as I open the door, I saw Fluttershy and a bunch of animals skittering around the place, cleaning the entire library. My eye twitched upon realizing what was Fluttershy trying to do and while she was singing a tune, a very catchy tune.

"Not you too, Fluttershy." I said in a blank expression.

"Oh, hello, Ren. Spike." Fluttershy said, noticing us coming from the doorway. "I saw Twilight come in the library, and I thought I could help her do some spring cleaning."

"...It's summer." Spike said, trying not to be angry at the timid mare. Wait, it's summer? Huh, well at least I know which season we're in.

"Oh...W-well, better late than never, right?" Fluttershy gave us a nervous grin, only making me groan.

"Spike, go and check on Twilight, please." The dragon nodded, making his way upstairs to the living area of the tree-bary. "Fluttershy, I'm going to have to ask you to leave, along with all your animal friends. Please. Twilight does not need this right now." I hated to see Fluttershy sad like that, but she left, along with her little friends.

The last to leave was the demon bunny, Angel, leaving a bowl of salad as he wore a chef's hat and apron, yeah, that maybe cute, but now's not the time.

"You told her to do this to get the ticket, didn't you?" I guessed. Angel stuck his tongue out at me, then hopped away after his owner, I closed the door behind me and let out a sigh. "Can today get any worse?"

The door suddenly swung open as confetti shot out at me from outside. "SURPRISE!"

"Oh no..." Pinkie suddenly appeared out of nowhere, as usual and grabbed me and flung me into a large group of mares as a song began to play as I was lifted into the air by the mob as if we're celebrating my birthday or something.


Rennie is my bestest friend
Whoopie, whoopie!


"Pinkie," I said as I was tossed in the air.


He's the coolest, strongest, all around best pony, pony!



"Pinkie." I began to sound a little annoyed as I was flipped around from another toss up.


I bet if I throw a super-duper fun party, party!


"Pinkie!" I was starting to get angry at this mare, I swear to god.


He'll give Twilight's extra ticket to the Gala to meeeeee!



"PINKIE PIE!!!!!" While I was tossed up in the air one last time, the group of mares backed away as I landed on my feet, glaring at the random pink pony with a twitching eye. "At least the others were subtle, but you have to sing a song about the stupid ticket!?"

"What ticket?" One of the mares asked, prompting me to shut my moth before it's too late.

"Oh, Rennie here is just holding onto Twilight's tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala." That mare will be the death of me.

Soon, the mares began to crowd me like I was some superstar, but all they just wanted was the ticket. 

"...Well, there's only one thing to do....RUN AWAY!" I said as grabbed my Hacking Gun and shot 'Paralyze' at them, causing them to be frozen in shock, literally.

This was my chance as I ran away from the crazy mob and ran away as fast as I can. Soon, the effects were starting to wear off as all the mares started to chase after me.

"GET BACK HERE!" The angry mob screamed out.

"WWWAAHHHHH!" I screamed as I tried to avoid them at all cost. I managed to give them the slep around the corner of a building, pressing myself against the wall as they blindly passed by him. Phew, I think they're gone.

As I tiptoed my way back to the library, one of the mares spotted me, getting their attentions.

"THERE HE IS!" They exclaimed in unison. 

"NO WAIT STOP! CAN'T WE JUST TALK THIS THROUGH?!" I exclaimed as I kept running away around town from them. I eventually spotted the Golden Oaks Library and opened the door, closed it once I got inside, and locked it. 

"Phew...that was a close one." I said to myself.

"Hey Rennie! Where were you?" I was immediately face-to-face with Pinkie, who only grin at me. 

I glared at her for what she done and said "You know darn well where I was! Is your brain the sized of chewed up bubble gum or something?! I was almost chased to death by those mares because of your shenanigans! Thanks a lot for getting me chased by a mob of mares that wanted to try to go out with me for Twilight's tickets, Pinkie Pie!"

"You're welcome!" I twitched my right eye and face-palmed at Pinkie's obliviousness to his sarcasm.

I started to hear some hoofsteps coming down the stairs, as I saw Twilight slowly coming down with the letter in her aura. Spike came down as well as the other girls were also here as well. Wait, where were they the entire time?! What, where they watching me get chased by those crazy mares?! Geez, thanks for the help you guys.

"Ren? Are you okay?" She asked in a worried tone.

"Just please tel me that you made a choice, because I can't take it anymore than you can..." I said letting out a sigh.

"...I have made my decision." Twilight said, only to be interrupted by Rainbow Dash.

"Yes, that ticket is mine!" As she began to celebrate early, I aimed my Hacking Gun at her, growling angry at her. She must've saw how furious I was as she chuckled nervously and hid behind the others, not wanting to get electrocuted or push away by a gust of wind again. "Uhhh...sorry." Yeah, you better be.

"Anyway, as I was saying....I decided to choose...nopony." We all gasped in shock upon hearing this, so does that mean Twilight won't go to the gala? "I decided to take Ren's advice earlier today and after thinking so hard to choose which of you I wanted to take. I couldn't find the right solution, and after Applejack...I panicked and ran. But I managed to calm myself down and read a little to clear my head, and none of us going is the best solution to this problem." Using her magic, Twilight pulled the tickets out of my hoodie pockets and placed them in her scroll, rolling it up to be sent. "And I'm going to give these tickets back. They've been nothing but trouble to me ever since I got them." You can say that again.

"So...nopony's really going? At all?" Rarity asked, receiving nod from the lavender unicorn.

"I don't want to disappoint all my friends. I want to make all of you happy, but I can't do that with the limited blessings I can give." Twilight gave Spike the scroll, nodding at him to send it. The dragon took a deep breath and burned the letter and the tickets, a magical aura sending it to Celestia. "Inside that letter is exactly what I said out loud. And I don't care if I don't go. It's just a boring ball, anyway."

I managed to get up and patted Twilight on the shoulder. "Now, I think all of you girls need to say something to Twilight. Putting pressure on her for many dumb reasons to go to the Gala wasn't right." I said sternly.

"...He's right, sorry Twilight." Applejack apologized, the others apologized as well. They all soon surrounded us both in a group hug, you know, this is nice, I just hope they learn their lesson about this. 

Suddenly, Spike started to gagged as he felt a belch coming up. "Oh come on Spike! Don't be insensitive with getting in touch with your soft side!" I said patting him on the back, which caused him to spit out another scroll. "...Oh...no offense, but I think there's gotta be another way for Princess Celestia to send messages."

"You can say that again." Spike agreed as he picked up the scroll. "My faithful student, why didn't you say so in the first place?" Appearing underneath the scroll, Spike pulled out six golden tickets. "Six tickets to the Gala!"

"That means we can all go!" Rainbow Dash said, cheering excitedly as each of the mares got their tickets. "Whoo hoo! Wonderbolts, here I come!"

Before they could truly celebrate, Twilight's stomach growled far louder than before, making her groan in hunger. "How about we buy you dinner, Twilight? We owe it to you for acting out like that for those tickets." Rarity suggested.

"I'd like that, Rarity." As the girls filed out of the library to eat out, they left me and Spike behind. Wait a minute, Princess Celestia send Twilight two tickets, and when Twilight send them back after not deciding who to go with and seeing her friends fight each other and me getting chased by those mobs of mares, Princess Celestia finally given her six tickets, like she planned this all along.

Oh.

"Oh, for a princess, she's quite clever." I muttered realizing what she just did, so this was one of Twilight's friendship lessons, well that's kinda one way to learn about Friendship, but next times, it's best if she doesn't take this far towards me. I noticed Spike feeling a bit disappointed, much to my confusion. "Spike, what's wrong?" I asked.

"It's...nothing, it's just that...well..."

"You wanted to go to the Grand Galloping Gala, huh?" I guessed, much to his surprise.

"W-well..uh...fine, it's true." He admitted it, making a disappointed expression. 

"Well I can understand, but you know, it would've been nice to go too." I said sadly. Okay, I admit, the Grand Galloping Gala seems very fun, but it looks we're not going. Spike soon let out another belch, another scroll landing in his claws.

"Huh? Another one?" I asked raising a brow. 

Spike open it up, revealing two more golden tickets. "And one for Spike and Ren." Spike and I widen our eyes upon realizing that Princess Celestia is letting us come too. We looked at each other with pure joy and excitement.

"Yes!" We exclaimed in joy as we ran outside and went giddy that we get to go to the gala, but we then stopped upon seeing Twilight and the others noticing our two golden tickets in our hands and smirked at us.

"Oh..uh...well we got two more to go." I said laughing nervously, which caused them to laugh at us. Yeah, smooth move Ren, smooth move.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 4 - Applebuck Season
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ahhh, you know what I do whenever I feel bored? Read manga all day while eating a bowl of chips and drinking a bottle of grape soda next to you. Yeah, it's been a week since then we receive those Grand Galloping Gala tickets, and now there hasn't been any problems around Ponyville, so now I'm bored.

I was busy reading my favorite two manga series, Pokemon and Dragon Ball Z, you all probably know what Pokemon is as it's an fictional series based on powerful creatures as the name entitles are on adventures with their trainers in hopes of being the best, and I prefer the Mystery Dungeon since I always love travelling in newly discovered places and such.

Dragon Ball Z is that anime people watched and when I first watched the first episode, I was so hype and excited to see so much action and such, since then, I fell in love with the series and watch almost every single episode with my brother. Man, I kinda miss those days but hopefully Princess Celestia will find a way to bring me back to my own world.

Suddenly, I began to feel a shaking sensation. "Whoa, what the heck?!" I said as I tried to grab on whatever I could find. Luckily, I put the top back on the soda, so it wouldn't spill, but what's causing all this shaking?

"STAMPEDE!" Huh? Was that Rainbow Dash and did she just say 'stampede'? I immediately grabbed my Megaphone Hacking Gun and ran outside to find out what was happening. When I raced out my front door of the Spaceship apartment, and rushed towards Ponyville.

Once I finally arrived, I saw everypony crashing into each other, all yelling 'Stampede!' Ponies were closing their windows and locking their doors.

I looked around and saw Pinkie Pie, who was the only one not panicking, why am I not surprise of her to not be panicking in a situation like this. "Hey...!" She laughed. "Thiiis maaakes myyy voooice soooound siiilly!"

"Pinkie Pie, are you crazy?!" I heard Twilight announce from the other side of the road. "RUN!"

"Everypony, calm down, there is no need to panic!" The mayor alerted outside.

"But, mayor! Whatever shall we do?" Rarity responded in a dramatic way. Well don't worry everypony, I'll stop the-

"Look, there!" What? I looked at what Rainbow Dash was pointing and across the river was a large stampede of...cows? What the heck? That's the trouble, okay maybe that is a problem, but this is what I wasn't expecting. But I saw a familiar cowmare running in the middle of the rampaging cows.

"YEEHAW!" Applejack cried as she tried to stop the stampede. When we the ponies saw her, they began cheering for her to save us. Applejack began rounding them up and collecting them in a straight and narrow line. Wow, I'm impress, well it makes since that she can do that. I mean, she is a farm mare after all you know.

All the ponies came out of their houses and saw her, they began to cheer for her to save us. While they watch, Pinkie Pie was holding a bag of popcorn in her hooves exclaiming "This is the best rodeo show I've ever seen!" She stuffed her face in the bag of popcorn. Wait, where did she get those? You know what, never mind. I'm not even gonna try to question...well about everything about her.

Applejack then pushed some cows to the side, jumped on one of them, and then lassoed the leader of the group. She pulled hard on the rope in order to change their direction to run along the river instead, all while cheering on.

The ponies cheered once again as Applejack pulled on the rope until the stampede came to a complete stop. She had a some short conversation with the cows, hmm, maybe she can speak to them just like Fluttershy? The cows turned around and went back to where they belong with Applejack following just in case they went on a stampede again.

After she left, the rest of Ponyville continued to cheer for saving the town. I let out a sigh and smile happily and walked over to where Mayor Mare, Twilight, and Rarity stood.

"Applejack was just...just..." The Mayor said couldn't find the words.

"Awesome?" I suggested, gaining their attention.

"Ren, what are you doing? I never expected you to be here." Twilight said surprised of my appearance.

"Well I was busy reading until I heard the stampede and tried to stop it, but I guess Applejack took care of it." I said smiling happily.

"Yes, she was very good handling those cows, it makes sense since she does take her job at Sweet Apple Acres seriously." Twilight said. Well, I mean it doesn't seem like a hard looking job, but still...

"Did anypony see that?! Applejack was...APPLE-TASTIC!" Pinkie Pie said appearing right between me and Twilight, much to our surprise.

"Exactly!" Mayor Mare agreed. "We must do something to thank Applejack for a single-hoofedly saving the town." Hoofedly? Yeah, I still need to learn the many languages they use in Equestria.

"I know..."

"Let me guess Pinkie, a party?" I asked.

"A PARTY!" Pinkie exclaimed in joy. Yep, thoughts so.





The next day, the whole town set up a celebration to commemorate Applejack's bravery for saving Ponyville, and I help with the celebration by putting up the streamers with some help from Rarity. Outside town hall, after completely finishing on decorating to honor the mare's heroic efforts, everypony waited patiently for the event to start. I was on stage with the others as we waited for Applejack to show up, but she hasn't.

"Are we all ready?" Twilight asked setting up her index cards.

"Just one last thing..." Rarity responded. She picked up a banner decorated with Applejack's symbols with her magic and placed it on top of a building. Wait, how could we miss that? "Now we're ready."

"Is Applejack all set?"

"Actually...I haven't seen her at all." Rainbow Dash said.

"Not since the Stampede yesterday." Pinkie Pie added. We all looked around and she wasn't present. Strange, this isn't like her to be late, wonder what could be up?

"Do you think something happen to her?" I asked in a worried expression.

"Don't worry Loodan, she'll be here for sure!" Rainbow Dash said in confidence. I rather not for her to say my last name, it's just...weird. "Applejack is NEVER late!"

"If you say so..." I said shrugging my shoulders.

"Okay everypony, let's go, I'm sure Applejack will be here." Twilight said as we began the opening ceremony. I just hope Applejack arrive in time.

"Welcome all of Ponyville!" She announced as the crowd quieted down. "Today, we are here to honor a pony we can rely on to help in any matter, big or small..." Wait, what about me? Don't we get medals since we save Ponyville, or better yet, Equestria? "She's a pony who-"

Rainbow Dash suddenly shoved Twilight aside, nearly tossing her cards everywhere. "Did you all see Applejack take care of that stampede?! How awesome was that?! But, during this week, AJ's gonna help me out with a sick trick I got planned, and it's gonna be so awesome!"

While the pegasus mare squished her cheeks at the end of her last line, gushing at how 'Awesome' her trick was going to be, I dragged Rainbow away from the podium so that Twilight can finish with her speech. The unicorn got back in place as she tried to remember where left off.

Besides, something about this trick Rainbow is planning has me at the end getting hit by Rainbow Dash, so it's best if I stay away from her for a while until she's done.

"Yes. Thank you, Rainbow Dash. And furthermore-" Twilight was once again interrupted yet again by Pinkie Pie as she somehow popped up from behind the podium.

"This week, I get to run Sugarcube Corner for the first time in ever!" Pinkie exclaimed, oblivious to Twilight glaring daggers at the back of her poofy hairstyle.

"And how is that even remotely related to Applejack?" I asked raising a brow.

"Oh.Right. She's gonna help me back some yummy treats, and we're going to be giving out free samples to everypony in Ponyville!" The crowed cheered, unable to wait for that day to happen. Of course they would celebrate something like that, I mean I would cheer and celebrate if I hear a new manga came out or a new video game.

"Great." Twilight mumbled as the pink pony bounced merrily away. "Now, if I could just make a point without being inter-"

"Twilight..." Fluttershy spoke up walking behind her.

"-rupted..." Wow, everypony sure do like interrupted others, do they?

Fluttershy took the podium and began talking. "Twilight, I'm so sorry, but I just wanted to mention that Applejack is also helping me this week with the official bunny census, where we count up all the new baby bunnies that were born this season. She's gonna help gather them using her wonderful herding skills." Okay, that's kinda adorable, that's something I would like to see, but let's just hope they're aren't like that 'Angel' Bunny of hers.

Fluttershy noticed the annoyed looked on Twilight's face and slowly backed out. Something in my head tells me that I shouldn't mess with her when she's talking.

"Anyone else...?Anyone...?" Twilight announced, but silence replied to her. "No? Well then, as I was trying to say..." Twilight and I noticed the mayor excitedly waiting to take the podium. "UGH! Never mind!" She threw her index cards all over the place and walked over to where I was standing while the mayor was about to give her next speech. Twilight pouted in anger that her speech was ruined.

"Next time, short and sweet. Not long and complicated." I told her giving her a smirk, which caused her to blush lightly.

"W-whatever..." She muttered angrily.

"Now, it is with great pleasure to award the Pony of Ponyville Award to our beloved guest of honor, a pony of the utmost trustworthiness, reliability, and integrity. Ponyville's most dependable and reliable friend; Applejack!" While the mayor introduced the farm pony, pointing out the gold trophy to the crowd, but Applejack was nowhere to be seen.

"...And she still isn't here yet." I said looking around the crowd. I soon heard someone coming out of the crowd, making their way forward. "No wait, never mind, she's here." I said as I saw Applejack moving out of the crowd and onto the stage, but I noticed something around her back, it appears those were baskets filled with apples, wonder if she busy doing her work and completely forgot about the ceremony?

"Sorry I'm late, everypony." Applejack said tiredly, boy, what happen to her? She stay up all night to finish her chores? She kept yawning every five seconds, man, she's completely worn out. "Thank you all for the...award thingie..." As she approached the trophy, she was fixated by her own reflection. I'm sure anypony could notice the bags under her eyes, we should really help her, who knows what might happen to her if we don't something about this.

She then began laughing, swaying back in forth as she kept looking at he reflection. "Boy, I sure do look funny." She said. It's only been a day and she's too tired? She soon began to making noises like a siren would, Pinkie joining her at random and mimicking her dazed actions.

While everypony just stared at the tired farm pony, I began to feel worry, and I'm sure Twilight is as well. After she was done with making those weird sounds, she tiredly thanked everypony for her trophy and hauled it back home, irritating all of our ears with the sound of metal skidding across the ground.

I made a worried expression and began to think what was wrong with Applejack.

"You're thinking about Applejack, right?" My thoughts were put on hold as I turned to Twilight and the others, who were also worried about our friend.

"Y-yeah, I feel as though something was wrong, when I saw Applejack like that, she looked so-"

"Tired?" Rainbow Dash offered, cutting me off.

"Dizzy?" Fluttershy added.

"Messy?" Rarity said. We all looked at her awkwardly. "Well did you SEE her mane?"

"Well...all of them!" I said shrugging my shoulders.

"Well she seemed fine to me. Whoo! Whoo!" Maybe to you Pinkie, but not to us.

"Hmm..." Twilight said as she began to think about Applejack.

"I'm guessing that we should go to Sweet Apple Acres and try to see what's wrong with Applejack, right?" I guessed.

Twilight nodded her head and said "Hm-mm! C'mon Ren!" I nodded and we began to head to Sweet Apple Acres. When we arrived to her farm, we saw her kicking apple tress for the apples to fall down into the buckets below the trees. However, she was having trouble trying to stay awake. From the lack of sleep, she wasn't concentrating right on her duties.

"What on earth is that pony doing?" Twilight asked, surprised to see her doing this.

"I don't know, but she can't concentrate on her job like this." I responded as I pointed towards Applejack.

We nodded our heads and approach Applejack. "Hey Applejack!" I called her out. Applejack stopped for a moment and fell asleep.

"Applejack!" Twilight called her, but Applejack still didn't budge. "Applejack!" Still no answer, she's completely tired out.

Twilight used her magic to teleport both of us in front of Applejack, much to my surprise. So they can use teleportation magic? Oh, I wish I had magic too so that I can do that too.

"APPLEJACK!" Twilight called out to her. Applejack finally heard us as she shook her head and looked at me and Twilight.

"Oh howdy Twilight, Ren." Applejack greeted us.

"What IS all this?!" Twilight questioned.

"It's Applebuck season." Applejack said as she began to kick another tree.

"Applewhat season?" I asked as me and Twilight followed her.

"It's what we Apple Family calls harvesting time. We gather all the apples from the trees so we can sell them." Applejack said as she continued to walk, which caused Twilight to teleport in front of her again.

"But, why are you doing it all alone?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah, what about your brother or any of your other family members to help you out?" I added.

"One, Big Macintosh hurt his leg as he got into a cart accident and two, my relatives can't come. We were just here for the Apple Family reunion. They actually live all over Equestria and are busy harvesting their own orchards. So, uh, I'm on my own."

"But wait a minute, do you have anypony else to you have at your own home, like your parents, or sister or such?" Applejack flinched in fear when I mention that, wonder whats up her? Did I say something wrong?

"Uh...well I have my little sister and my Granny Smith, but she's busy taking a nap and my little sister is school." Oh, I see, but why didn't she talk about her parents?

"Well, can we help?" Twilight offered.

"Sorry, no can do, I rather do this alone, thank you very much." Applejack said walking past us, which caused Twilight to teleport us in front of her again.

"Applejack, you need help. Let us handle this and we can-

"NO!" Applejack shouted, cutting me off. "I told you both before, I don't need any help, so you two go and don't come back!" Applejack exclaimed. We let out sighs and left Sweet Apple Acres. I just hope Applejack would just stop, I just worried about her.

"What are we gonna do Twilight?" I asked in worry. "Applejack won't listen to us, she's too tired to even pay attention or listen to us at all!"

"I know how you feel Ren, and I'm worried too, but I'm sure Applejack will realize that this challenge is too difficult to handle." Twilight said.

"Yeah, I hope so." I said looking back at the entrance of Sweet Apple Acres. Please Applejack, don't push yourself too far.





The Next Day

I was busy reading my manga and eating chips and drinking soda as usual. But I still can't get over on what happen yesterday with Applejack, I just hope she's still okay.

Suddenly, I started to hear screaming all of a sudden and bang on my window. What the heck was that?! I ran outside and grab my Hacking Gun and headed outside, where I saw Rainbow Dash was the one who slammed into my window. She slid down off the window and landed on the ground.

"Rainbow! Are you okay?!" I asked rushing towards her. Rainbow Dash shook her head and put her hoof on her head.

"I think so, but it looks like my trick was botched the moment I took off." She said as she got up and cracked her spine back into place.

"Just what were you doing that caused you land on my spaceship apartment's window?" I asked.

"Well, I made this catapult, where I stand on one end and Applejack jumps off and lands on the other end," Rainbow explained. "With the quick lift off, I would be able to pull off this one trick I want to show to the Wonderbolts. But she kept missing and fell on the ground! Then, she thought just pushing it down as a joke would help, and when she let go, I fell down, unprepared for the takeoff. She finally lands on it, and I was flung up into the air, losing all control...And I think you know what happened next."

"Wait, you built a catapult?" I asked.

"Yeah, it was a pretty good trick eh?" Rainbow Dash asked smirking at me. Okay, not gonna lie, that is pretty cool, even if its dangerous, that's just amazing.

"I...guess, but I think I should go to Applejack and confront her about this." I said as I ran back to Sweet Apple Acres and arrived at the orchard. I found Applejack, who was still working, smacking herself hard in the head by accident with a low hanging branch. While knocked for a loop, made worse with her insomnia. I walked over to her and made a serious expression.

"Applejack, we need to talk."

"You want to go for a walk?!" Applejack shouted. "Go on ahead! Just don't buck any trees!" She must so tired that she can barely hear anyone, I better speak up louder.

"No, Applejack! I said we need to talk!" I exclaimed.

"You need a walk to the zoo?! Well nopony is stopping you!"

"NO, I NEED TO TALK TO YOU! READ! MY! LIPS!"

"Kiss you?! Ren, I like you as a friend, but there's no way I wanna be in a relationship with you!"

"Wait what? NO! I didn't say that!" I exclaimed both angry and embarrassed. Me? Kiss a pony?! That's just...well both awkward and weird? Who want to see a human date a pony?! "I SAID I NEED TO TALK TO YOU NOW!"

"Oh, then why didn't you say so?" Applejack asked. Finally, about time. "What is it, Ren?"

"Applejack, you need to take a nap! Look at you, you look terrible!" I exclaimed.

"Pfft! Please, I'm fine!" Applejack responded glaring at me. I stutter at what she said, which caused me to be angry.

"Y-you just flung Rainbow Dash off a catapult and made her land on my house window!"

"...I don't need to hear any of that! What you do with Rainbow Dash should stay private!" I face-palmed at her stubborness as she walked away and said "Now if you'll excuse me, I gotta go meet up with Pinkie Pie!"

She slammed her head head into the same branch before heading into town, dropping some apples she was carrying in one of the buckets she lifted on her back.

I just stood there, giving off a blank expression. "Jeez, that pony is stubborn as a mule." I exclaimed in annoyance until I heard a donkey sound. I turned around and saw an actually mule behind me. "Uhh..no offense."

"None taken." He said as he walked away. Wait, where did he even come from? Oh never mind. What am I gonna do? Applejack won't listen to any of us and she won't allow us to help her.

"This week can't get any worse, can it?"





"....Me and my big mouth..." I muttered in disappointment. Me, Twilight, and Spike were called over to the hospital, where an epidemic broke out this morning. Everypony inside was gravely ill, their faces green and vomiting, all of them having some kind of stomach virus. "What the heck happened?!"

"There was a little mishap that lead back to yesterday." The nurse said, she was a white earth pony mare with pink hair, her cutie mark a big plus sign used to show a building is a hospital. "It turns out that the baked goods given out at Sugarcube Corner as free samples were the problem."

"No. Not baked goods." We turned to Pinkie Pie, who was on one of the beds and one of the unfortunate victims that ate whatever they had that caused them to be like this. "They were...baked bads!"

Her cheeks bulged out as she went over and threw up in a bucket. Hold in Ren, just hold it in.

"Pinkie, what happen? I may known you for just almost a week, but I know you wouldn't do this on purpose or on accident, just what happen?" I asked.

"...I-I don't know...I told Applejack what we needed...she got them, but I don't know what happened." Pinkie collapsed on the bed, rubbing her aching tummy.

I found one of the 'baked bads' they made, which was a really disgusting looking brown muffin. Okay, why didn't nopony take a look at what it looked like before eating it? Suddenly, an earthworm popped out of the muffin, much to our surprise.

"EWW!" Twilight exclaimed in disgust. "What kind of pastry requires live worms?!"

"Or...more like mistaking words and thinking they're saying something completely different." I realized who did this as I dropped the muffin, which Spike picked it up and examined the odd pastry before taking a bite on it.

"Hmm-mm! Delicious! Are you sure you don't want some Ren?" Spike asked offering me the muffin.

I felt as my face started to turn green as I tried to hold my puke. "N-no thank you, I'm good." You see, whenever I see someone puke or eat something that almost like garbage, I always tried to hold my puke but it never works.

"Oh well, more for me!" Spike exclaimed before taking another bite of the muffin. Okay, I don't need to see this. It's time to pay Applejack a visit.





Me and Twilight headed back to Sweet Apple Acres to stop this madness once and for all until suddenly, we felt another sensation.

"What the?" I asked myself as we looked up to see a horde of...bunnies? There were a large group of baby bunnies, scattering away from us and toward the gardens around the ponies homes, munching on the flowers and vegetables.

Oh no! Oh dear!" Fluttershy came flying by, trying to round up all the rabbits to no avail. At least none of them were like Angel, otherwise that would be a dangerous scenario. I shuddered upon imagining that, yep, it would be a worse case scenario. "Come here, little bunny friends! Oh no no no! Don't eat those! They aren't yours!"

"Fluttershy, what happened?!" Twilight asked in confusion.

"Applejack came over to help me round up the bunnies, but she ended up scaring them." She explained. "She even brought Winona, which was a bad idea and made them more afraid."

"Ok that's it! I'm drawing the line here!" I set my Hacking Gun to 'Dance' and aimed for the bunnies. "Dance!" I shot a melody looking beam and shot the bunnies as they began to dance around, completely making them stop eating the gardens.

"There you go Fluttershy, the affects won't last long, round them up and bring them to your home." I explained, which she nodded and went to round them up.

"Come on Twilight, let's go!" I exclaimed as me and Twilight headed to the orchard and saw Applejack trying to buck a tree while gasping for air between each word she muttered.

"Alright Applejack." Twilight said as she made a stern expression. Oh boy, looks like she's about to go to lecture mode. "Your applebucking hasn't just caused YOU problems, it's over-propelled Pegasus', practically poisoned plenty of ponies, and terrorized bushels of brand new bouncing baby bunnies. I don't care what you say, you. Need. Help."

"Ha! No I don't. Look, ah did it. I harvested the entire Sweet Apple Acres without your help. How'd ya like them apples?" Applejack said feeling proud of herself. I looked around and saw that she only did half of the orchard, causing me and Twilight to sweat-dropped.

"Oh really? How do YOU like THEM apples?" I pointed towards the others side of the apple orchard. As Applejack turned around, her pupils shrunk in disbelief as she began to mumble something.

"Where'd all the apple..."? She continued to mumble until she passed out. We ran towards her and tried to wake her up.

"Applejack. Applejack!" Twilight kept shaking her until she finally woke up.

"You okay?" I asked in concern.

"...No...I really can't do it on my own." Applejack said getting up and rubbing her tired eyes, succumbing to her exhaustion. "I need help."

"Applejack, I can understand if you don't want-wait what?" Twilight replied, thinking that Applejack would still decline the offer.

"Yes Twilight, Ren. Yes please. I could really use your help." Applejack before she fell down but I caught her.

"And I can find us some help, Twilight, go and get the others, I'll take Applejack to the barn and rest." I said, which she nodded and headed to round up the others.

I carried Applejack on my back as we headed towards the farmhouse. "Thank you mighty, Ren, you're too kind." Applejack said smiling softly at me. Oh wait, she's awake, wow, she knows how to wake up fast.

"It's no problem." I replied happily.

"I'm very glad to have you as a friend." Applejack smiled weakly.

"Anytime." I said smiling at her before frowning a little. Friend...I let out a sigh as I began to think what she said. How she's glad to have me as a friend? It's so nice for someone to acknowledge me, it must be so...nice.

We continued walking until we finally arrived to the house, where I headed inside and put her on the couch.

"Thanks Ren." Applejack thanked me.

"Anytime Applejack, you rest up. But is there anything you need?" I asked.

"Nah, I don't think....so..." Before you know it, Applejack past out again. Oh well, she does need to rest up. I smiled softly and headed outside, where I met up with Twilight and the other girls.

"Hey there, Ren! Where's Applejack?" Twilight asked.

"Don't worry guys, she's inside of her house and resting." I replied.

"Oh, okay, that's good." Twilight said letting out a sigh. "Well anyway, we should get to work." I smile softly and nodded to her as we got to work for the harvesting.





Later

By the next day, Me, Twilight, and our friends helped Applejack harvest all the apples for applebucking season, and it went by a lot quicker than Applejack's method of challenging herself to do it all on her own. After we were all done, we went to check on Applejack, and she was completely healed, much to our relief.

With all the tress finally harvested, we all headed back to the farmhouse, where Applejack had bottles of freshly squeezed apple juice for them, fully rested after sleeping through the rest of yesterday. "Thanks for the help, everypony, and Ren, you all were right. I guess I was acting a bit stubborn."

"A bit?" We all replied in unison.

"Okay, a might' stubborn, and I'm awful sorry. Now, I know the town gave me the Prized Pony award, but the real award is having you six as my friends." Applejack said smiling softly at us, she then handed us the apple juice and we began to drink some.

"Phew! That applebucking sure made me hungry!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

"I know what you mean Dash." I agreed with her. "I'm just glad this is all over and Applejack learn her lesson to not let her stubbornness get the best of her." I said as I took a drink of my apple juice. Aww, it taste so good.

"And I've got the perfect treat!" Spike showed us a muffin.

"Oh thank you Spike." I said as I took a bite of the muffin. Strange, I feel as though I've seen this muffin from somewhere.

"Eewww, Spike, I threw those all away." Wait what? "Where'd you get them?" Pinkie Pie asked.

"From the trash." Spike replied. Eveypony made disgusted faces before realizing that I took a bite of the muffin. Wait, this muffin is also the same muffin from...oh no...

"Wait what?!" My face turn green as I spat out of the muffin and tried to get the stuff out of my mouth. "Why would I ever eat this?! Why did I do that?!" I screamed, which made everypony laugh at my reaction as I glared at Spike angrily, who only smile sheepishly. You're so going to get it, Spike.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 5 - Griffon The Brush Off
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A week has past since Applejack's applebucking season thing, and I've been quite enjoying my time here in Equestria, I mean I still want to go home with my family, but still, I'm having so much with my new friends. Anyway, I was busy hanging out with Twilight and Spike, practicing my Hacking Gun.

"Break!" I said as I shot 'Break' at the target shot. Once the shot made contact with the target, it blew it up.

"Nice shot Ren!" Spike complimented me.

"Ah, it was nothing Spike." I responded rubbing my head.

"Amazing, the Hacking Gun is quite amazing Ren. I am curious on how it can fire shots and how it functions." Twilight looking towards the Hacking Gun.

"Yeah, me too, though I just wonder why was this in the spaceship with me while I was in that chamber." I wondered aloud as I looked at my Megaphone Hacking Gun. 

"Yeah, that is strange. I guess we'll figure that out later." Twilight said putting away her book. "Well, I guess that it's for today's practice with the Hacking Gun." 

"Yeah, I guess so, I am hungry anyway." I said as I stomached growl, much to my embarrassment. I would buy something but I don't any money of this world.

"Well actually, now that you brought that up, Princess Celestia send me a message and asked me to give this too." Twilight said as she gestured Spike to hand me the letter.

I received and open it up and saw a bunch of coins in there, both silver and gold. They look like coins you used in arcades and such. I noticed a scroll inside and took it out from the letter and read through it.

"Dear Ren, Twilight have told me that you don't any money of our world, so I decided to share some of mine to you. Inside of this letter is 1,000 bits, so you have no need to worry about your currency problem, also, I'm still looking for a way to find a way to return you back home, so stay patience. I bid you goodbye.

- Your Highness, Princess Celestia."

I couldn't help but smile happily for what she did. Thanks Princess Celestia.

"Thanks you guys." I said happily. Twilight and Spike smiled back at me.

"Anytime Ren." Twilight replied.

"Whoa!" Huh? What was that? I turned around, only to be crashed into by a familiar blue Pegasus. 

"Owww..." I said as I put my hand on my head.

"Sorry about that Ren, just didn't see ya." Rainbow said shaking her head to relieve the pain.

"Rainbow Dash, why did you crash into Ren?" Twilight asked.

"Just don't tell Pinkie Pie I was here!" Rainbow exclaimed, much to our confusion.

"And why's that?" Spike asked.

"Just don't her that I was here!" Rainbow Dash then flew up to a cloud and zoomed inside the cloud. Strange, wonder why she's hiding from Pinkie?

"Hi Rennie! Hi Twilight! Hi Spike!" We turned around to see Pinkie Pie coming up to us, bouncing along in her usual way. "Have any of you seen Dashie anywhere?!"

"Hmmm..." I made a little smirk and decided to pay that Pegasus back for the times she crashed into me a lot. "Oh I don't know Pinkie." I said in a sarcastic tone, much to Twilight and Spike's confusion. "That mare is always thinks she's 'high in the skies'. She could possibly be in the 'mile high club'." Ha, okay maybe those puns were bad but still I think that maybe Pinkie could at least took the hints.

"So...did you see her or not?" Pinkie asked, not getting the hint. I face-palmed at her not knowing what I meant. Oh well, my puns were bad anyway.

"She's up in the cloud above us." I said pointing towards the cloud.

"Loodan, you traitor!" Rainbow exclaimed coming out of the cloud.

"Hi Rainbow Dash!" 

"GAH!" Rainbow Dash quickly flew off, leaving a rainbow trail behind. Pinkie bounced off as she went to go follow her.

After they were gone, Twilight and Spike looked at me with smirks and raised brows. "What? She crashed into me? You think I wouldn't let it go, right?" I said shrugging my shoulders. Oh well, besides, I was curious on why Pinkie was so interested in Rainbow Dash in the first place. Nah, I'll asked them later.





Later

I was taking a stroll Ponyville, saying hi to everypony in the neighborhood. Huh, I think they're finally getting used to me, well it makes since me and my friends did defeat Nightmare Moon and brought Princess Luna, though I wonder how she's doing?

While walking, I began to think about the money Princess Celestia gave to me. I kinda do feel bad actually that she had to give me so much money, I should repay back but I don't have a job, besides I don't think I'm good with anything with what they have here in Ponyville. Maybe I should ask Twilight.

"Ah-Choo!" 

I looked around and saw Rarity stepping past the Flower Flowers stalls, wearing a bonnet and sunglasses and levitating a hanky to wipe her nose with. Wonder what's wrong with her?

"Hey Rarity, did you catch a cold or something?" I asked, though it seems strange to catch a cold in the middle of summer.

"Oh no, Ren darling." Rarity waved off my concern. "Just a victim of a little prank."

"Really? From who?" 

"From Pinkie and Rainbow Dash, of course." Pinkie and Rainbow Dash? That's weird, I thought that Rainbow was trying to run away from Pinkie, I guess they made up or something.

"Well, I didn't expect them to pull a prank like that." I said raising a brow.

"Oh darling, it was just a little prank." She assured. "All in good fun."

"Well, if you say so, anyway, I gotta go, bye." I said waving goodbye to Rarity.

I finally arrived to the Golden Oaks Library and headed over there and knocked on the door. The door opened, revealing Spike.

"Oh hey-Hic!-Ren, what are-Hic!-you doing here?" Spike asked as he hiccup on what he said.

"Spike, what's wrong with you?" I asked curiously.

"Oh nothing-Hic! -I was just a-Hic!-victim of Pinkie and-Hic!-Rainbow Dash pranks." Pinkie and Rainbow Dash again? Boy, they sure do like pranks alot, better keep my eye on them.

"So what-Hic!-brings you here-Hic!-Ren?" Spike asked.

"Oh I came to speak with Twilight." I said as he allowed in the tree house. I saw Twilight walking down the stairs, grumbling angrily about something. She noticed me coming in and smiled softly at me.

"Oh hey Ren, what are you doing here?" She asked.

"Oh I came here to ask you something." I said but noticed that she seemed distress. "Is there something wrong?" 

She let out a sigh and said "I guess...Pinkie and Rainbow Dash replaced my ink with invisible ink and I HAD to go get more...they even messed up my experiment." She said showing me a mess around the alchemy equipment.

"Oh wow, they really did something like that?" I asked.

"Yeah, our two favorite pranksters." Twilight replied as she gazed at her ruined alchemy equipment.

"Well I'm sure they didn't mean that. After all, they are just having fun." I said shrugging my shoulders. I remember back when I lived on earth, my sister would love pulling pranks on me back on April Fools day, which was pretty fun.

"Yeah, I guess so, so what brings you here, Ren?" Twilight asked getting back to the main topic.

"Oh yes, you see I was wondering if there was any job offering around Ponyville." I asked.

"No, I don't think so. Why do you ask?"

"Well, after getting the money from Princess Celestia, I felt kinda bad for her giving some to me, so I thought maybe I should repay her back." I explained.

"I see..." Twilight said putting her hoof on her chin. "Well I guess you could work around the places around Ponyville, or maybe something that depends on your talent." Twilight suggested. Something that depends on my talent? Well I do put my mind into one thing, but I wouldn't call it a really great talent.

"Okay then, I see, well I'll go look for a job tomorrow, I guess." I said still a little unsure about finding a job that requires my talent.

"Well if you want, you could work around the library if you want?" Twilight offered.

"Thanks but no thanks Twilight, it's best if I go and look for one on my own." I suggested as I waved goodbye to her and Spike. A job that may require my talent, I'm kinda not sure about that.





Later

I was walking through the Ponyville Market place as I looked around in hopes finding someone would hire me. I just an average kid, I have no experience with anything besides using this Hacking Gun, besides I'm already getting the hang of it.

"HEY!" Huh? I looked to see Fluttershy and a bunch of baby ducks being harassed by a...the heck is that? It looked like a bird but it she had a brown leonine body, her foreleg were eagle claws, her head was covered with white feathers, her eyes were yellow, and large brown wings. Just what kind of creature is she?

"Oh! Please excuse me." Fluttershy said getting intimidated by that creatures eyes.

"I'm walking here!" That bird thing glared at the frightened pony.

"I-I'm sorry...I was only..." Fluttershy was so terrified that she couldn't finish her sentence. I glared at the creature for its rudeness, to yell and bully a shy girl like Fluttershy is wrong.

"Oh I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" The creature mocked her. "Why don't you watch where you're going, doofus!" Okay that's it.

"Hey, leave her alone!" I yelled out to them. The creature stopped and noticed me. 

"Hey, what's your problem?! This doesn't concern you...you...what are you exactly?" She asked looking up and down at my body.

"My name is Ren Loodan and in case you're wondering, I'm a human. Now listen, leave Fluttershy alone, all she was doing was walking her ducks and she didn't noticed you, okay? So stop yelling at her already." I said sternly but the creature just laughed at me.

"Oh please, why should I listen to some hairless ape!" She told me angrily.

"Well at least I have hair, you weird eagle headed lion body whatever you are!" I yelled at her, which caused not only Fluttershy, but everypony around us to gasp in shock. 

The creature just glared at me angrily and said "I'm a griffon! Gilda Griffon if you please!" She pushed off the ground and I landed on my butt. I looked at her angrily as she just laughed at me.

"Oh please, a hairless ape like you who doesn't even know a cool Griffin like me, huh, wonder why Dashie even hangs out a freak like you!" Dashie? Is she referring to Rainbow Dash? Why would she befriend someone that acts like she's better than anypony else. I gritted my teeth in anger as I got up and glared at her.

"Okay listen you..." I gained her attention as I grabbed her by the feathers. "You're gonna listen to me, apologize to Fluttershy, leave right now, and never come back or else?" Gilda just let out a 'PFFFT' sound as she pushed me away.

"Or else what you old fart?" She asked in a snarky tone. I made half-lid eyes and grabbed my Hacking Gun and shot it at her. 

"Dance!" I shouted as she was hit by the beam, causing her whole body to dance. 

"What the?! What's happening to me?! Why am I dancing?!" 

"Now, Break!" I shouted as I shot 'Break' at her, causing to get hit and fall down. She got back up and flew away away, but before she left, she glared at me furiously.

"This isn't over yet you freak!" Gilda shouted before she flew away.

Suddenly, everypony in the market started to cheer and stomp their hooves at me, I guess they're congratulating me for getting that bully out of town. I smiled appreciatively as I waved them all off and turned to Fluttershy, who was still shaking in fear. "Are you okay?" I asked.

Fluttershy's eyes were streaming with tears but she nodded. I gave help her up and gave her a hug to calm down. "It's okay Fluttershy, I won't let her or anypony else bother you like that." I said in determination.

"T-thank you Ren..." She said happily. I smiled back at her, I'm just so glad she's okay but who was that anyway?

"That was stupendous!" Huh? We turned around to see Pinkie Pie bouncing towards us. "Good thing you showed up, Rennie!"

"Pinkie, what are you doing?" I asked curiously.

"I saw the whole thing!" Pinkie explained. "I knew it! I knew that Gilda was a grumpy mean-meanie pants!"

"You know her?" 

"Yeah, apparently she's Rainbow Dash old Flight Camp friend, at first I wanted to hang out with them, but Gilda kept trying to get rid of me and told me to buzz off! I tried telling Twilight about it but she told me that I was wrong and need to improve my attitude! So I decided to keep a watch of her to prove Twilight wrong, but as soon as I saw you confronting Gilda like that, I just knew you save the day, Rennie!" Pinkie explained.

"Yeah, but that bird has some anger problems." I agreed.

"Actually, she's a griffon." Fluttershy corrected me. Though, I don't think I've ever heard about them on what I read on mythology books.

"Yeah but still, I just don't like people bullying others, it's just not right." I said still angry at what Gilda did to Fluttershy.

"Exactly, that's why we're gonna do some little pay-back, Pinkie Pie style!" Pinkie exclaimed as she rubbed her hooves together and smirked evilly.

"Yeah...Pinkie Pie Style." I agreed as I rub my hands and smirked evilly as well. Let us show that Gilda Griffin to never mess with us, but there's one thing in my head I kinda need to know. What the heck does Pinkie mean that we're gonna teach her a lesson, 'Pinkie Pie style' exactly?





Well looks like my question just got answered. Me and Pinkie were in Sugarcube Corner, which I have to say, it's not bad at all. Anyway, Pinkie invited almost everypony to the party, which was made for Gilda apparently.

"Pinkie, are you even sure this is gonna work?" I asked as I started to have doubts about this whole thing.

"Don't worry your ahoge, Rennie!" Pinkie said patting my head. "Just leave everything to your Auntie Pinkie!"

"...Uhh, are you even old enough to be my aunt?" I questioned. "No offense, but its hard to tell because of your child-like personality."

"Sorry Rennie, I can't tell, not even the author or the people who read this story can know how old am I." Pinkie said looking at something that I couldn't even know, and what the heck did she mean author and people who read this story? What story exactly?

"Who are you looking at?" I asked raising a brow.

"Oh look, the guest of honor has arrived!" Pinkie pointed out as we saw Gilda come in, once she came and walked right past over us, her tail smacked my face as I spat out some of her hair that got into my mouth. I guess that a little payback for what I did.

"More like the guest of dishonor, in my opinion." I said rolling my eyes. While looking around the bakery, I spotted Rainbow Dash meddling with something over at the punch bowl. She suppressed her laughter, having done something, maybe setting up a prank I guess. I just hope that Gilda didn't tell her about what did I do earlier to her.

Suddenly, more ponies began to show up, including Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, Spike, and Fluttershy. I saw Pinkie talking with Gilda, so I listen to their conversation.

"Gilda! I'm so honored to throw you one of my signature Pinkie Pie parties, and I really, truly, sincerely, hope you feel welcome here amongst all us pony, and of course, human folk!"

Pinkie Pie held out her hoof. Gilda hesitated for a moment, but she reached out to grab it was instantly shocked, literally. Pinkie Pie laughed, and so did everypony, including me.

"Oh Pinkie Pie, the old hoof-shake buzzer. You are a SCREAM!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

"Yeah..." She chuckled nervously. "Uh, good one, Pinkie Pie..." It looks like she's trying to hide her hatred towards the pink pony as long is Rainbow Dash is here. No wonder why Rainbow Dash is hanging out with Gilda, she's oblivious on the cruel stuff she does to us.

"Come on G, I'll introduce you to some of my other friends."

"Right behind you Dash." She replied, but she said something to Gilda that I didn't make out. Oh well, whatever, Pinkie did her part, now its my turn.

"Okay...let's do this, Loodan-style!" I said as walked over to a table and grabbed the Lemon drops and approached the griffon with a small smile, but she tried to hide her disdain at me.

"Oh hey...Uhh, Looney, right?" I tried to hide my angry face for her making fun of my last name. Remind me to change my last name when its get out of hand.

"It's actually Loodan, Ren Loodan. Pinkie Pie and I went through great lengths to give you this awesome party, to show you that Ponyville is a really friendly place." I held out the the bowl of lemon drops, keeping my small smile. "So how about a lemon drop?"

"Well, don't mind if I do!" Gilda said licking her lips upon seeing the lemon drops in my hands. Gilda took one and chewed it. However, this is part of the plan me and Pinkie came up with. And what's that you see? Oh you'll find out.

"HOT!" Gilda cried out as she released a roar of fire. Pinkie Pie appeared out of nowhere and roasted a marshmallow with the flames. Okay, you see, I may or may not rigged the lemon drops and put spicy pepper on it. 

"G, the punch!" Rainbow yelled over to Gilda. Gilda race over to the punch bowl. However, she had an unexpected surprise with the glass. Apparently when she tried to drink it, there was a small hole in it that caused the punch to spill over her chest. We all laughed at the random pranks the griffon was hit with, Oh now I now what Rainbow did now, clever Pegasus. Oh boy, where's a camera when you need one these days? 

"Well, whaddya know, pepper in the vanilla lemon drops, and the punch served in a dribble glass! That's hilarious!" Pinkie said as she took a bite of the lemon drops.

"Wait, Pinkie, I don't think-" But I stopped to see that she was unfazed by the spiciness of the sour sweet. Is she immune to the spice or something?

"Ha! Priceless! Priceless!" Rainbow Dash laughed.

Gilda finally managed to drink something that was prank free. She chugged the drink and gulped. "Yeah, hilarious." She said in a hint of disgust and sarcasm in that tone. Yeah, you deserve you jerky griffon.

"Hey G, look! Presents!"  Rainbow Dash pointed to several boxes of presents lying on the table. Gilda immediately ran over to the presents, excited.

She began opening a cylinder one, but several fake snakes shot out of the can and surprised her. We all started laughing once again at that, ha, classic. Though, I wonder why people always keep falling for that old trick in the book?

"Spitting snakes." Applejack said smirking at the griffon. "Heh, somepony pulled that prank on me last month." 

"Ha ha. I bet I know who that was." Gilda responded giving Pinkie a glare.

"Time for cake everypony!" Pinkie shouted, pulling out the large cake from the kitchen. Oh, this is going to be good.

"Hey, can I blow out the candles?" Spike asked in a exciting tone. 

"Wait Spike!" I said, making the dragon turned to me in confusion. "Why don't we let Gilda blow out the candles? She IS the gust of honor after all." I said in a sarcastic tone.

"Exactly! Thanks Looney!" Why your welcome you jerk. Gilda pushed Spike over and moved over to the cake. I walked over to the clothed table to next to me and secretly took out my Hacking Gun and put a good aim at the candles without nopony noticing me. Okay, just blow out the candles and fun shall begin.

Gilda took a deep breath and blew out the candles, half expecting something to happen, only to grin as they were successfully blown out.

"Burn." I whispered, shooting a small burst of fire at the candles and re-lighting them. You see, I learn that the Hacking Gun can shoot and control weak and powerful shots by how the way you press the trigger too quick or slow.

Gilda became confused on how they relight themselves, so she blew them again, only for me to lit them up again. She kept doing this over and over until she ran out of breath, making the crowd laugh at the hilarious re-lighting candles prank, even though the candles were actually normal.

"Huh. I don't remember putting re-lighting birthday candles on the cake, but that sure was funny!" Pinkie said.

"Oh really?" Gilda said looking towards me, which I only waved back at her. She clenched his talons in anger and came over to me while nopony was looking. I quickly put away my Hacking Gun and grabbed some punch to try to look innocent. With nopony looking at her from the direction she was facing, she dropped the grin and leered at me. "What are you up to Looney?"

"What do you mean?" I asked grinning at the griffon.

"Don't mess with me, you scrawny little hairless ape." She growled, struggling to keep her temper in check." I'm watching you and that pink dork like a hawk."

"Don't you mean, watch me and that pink dork like a griffon?" I mocked her. Gilda right eye twitched as she brought out her talons, and prepared to slash me, but stopped herself before making a scene. "Relax. It's a party. Learn to be a good griffon and have 'fun'." I said adding the fun part with sarcasm. 

I took a sip from the punch and walked over to the others, waiting in line to get a slice of cake. Okay, so phase two was done, getting her all riled up. So now it's time to move on to the final phase, get her to show her true colors about her behavior around others when Rainbow wasn't around.

"Time to pin the Tail on the Pony!" Pinkie announced, grabbing a blindfold and a fake pony tail. It's kinda weird since they're ponies and they are playing a similar game to Pin The Tail on the Donkey, oh well, I'll never understand the logic in this world I'm stuck in.

"Oh, my favorite game. Can I go first? Can I have the purple tail?" Rarity asked, approaching her, but only for Gilda stomp over to them, anticipating her to shove him, and she did, knocking her aside.

"I get to go first! I'm the guest of honor, I'll have the purple tail." Gilda said as she retrieved the tail. I winked over to Pinkie for it, which she winked back at me.

"Yeah, Gilda should definitely go first. Let's get you blindfolded!" Pinkie Pie encouraged.

"Hey what- ugh-"

She quickly blindfolded Gilda. "What are you doing? Rrrah." Then Pinkie spinned her around.

"We're spinning you around and around and then you pin the tail on the pony. Now just walk straight ahead and pin the tail." Pinkie Pie directed.

"Now just walk straight ahead and pin the tail." Gilda mocked her. "Heh, yeah, right. This is another prank, isn't it? I'm going this way." She turned around the exact opposite way the poster was at and headed for..oh boy, must...contain...laughter..

"Wait, the poster is this-" 

Gilda just ignored her again and walked the direction she went and instead, she slipped on cake icing while she was walking, then crashed into the other room and came out with the tail on her beak. Well, looks like she just got her just desserts, literally.

"Uh, Gilda? You pinned the tail on the wrong end." Pinkie Pie pointed out, getting the rest of us to laugh at the griffon's new accessory.

That made Gilda snap, roaring like a lion as she ripped the presents to shreds. Okay, if I ever met another griffon that's a bigger bully than Gilda, remind me to never make them ticked off like that.

"This is your idea of having fun!? I have never in all my life met a bunch of lame-o ponies!" She turned to Pinkie Pie, her pupil shrinking as she glared at her. "And you, Pinkie Pie! Setting up this party with all these lame pranks, thinking you could make me lose my cool!?"

"What? I didn't set up any pranks," Pinkie said innocently.

"Don't you lie to me! You planned all this! I'm done with this stupid town! Dash, let's leave this dumb party! She's got more cool than all of you dorks combined!" As she was about to leave the bakery, I stood in her way. "Hey, get out of my way you stupid hairless ape!"

"Well that's not very nice, calling me and my friends names and freaking out just because of a few pranks. Quite a weird coincidence that you ended up getting hit by all the ones that I set up." Gilda's eyes widened on what I said as she looked back at Pinkie, who was just surprised as the rest of the group to hear me say that I set up some pranks for the party. She looked back at me with a scowl, while I gave her a smirk. "You must be pretty unlucky to have pranked by a 'hairless ape', huh?"

"...You..." Gilda growled as she unleashed her claws and tried to attack me, but I quickly grabbed my Hacking Gun and pointed it towards her.

"Knock-Back!" I shouted as a gust of wind was shot out of the Hacking Gun, blowing Gilda away and causing her to hit the wall. "Hey Gilda, ever heard of the phrase 'never judge a book by its cover'? Well the same can be said about you, now that you've shown us your true self."

Gilda got back up and glared at me angrily. "You tricked me!" Gilda shouted angrily. 

"And you yelled at Fluttershy after she tried to apologize to you for bumping into you and almost was ready to scream at her!" I shouted angrily. "I don't why Rainbow Dash ever befriended you in the first place, but she shouldn't deserve a friend who acts like a jerk to her new friends." I yelled, causing the griffon, and the others to stare at me in shock.

"Pinkie Pie told me that she wanted to hang out and fit in with you, but you just threw her away and lashed out of her because you wanted to keep Rainbow Dash to yourself, well I'm sick of it! I've always people who likes bullying others because they think they're better than anyone and hurt those who can't defend themselves, like Fluttershy and Pinkie. Well I'm sick of it."

"Yeah." Pinkie spoke up. "I threw this party to get you to turn that frown of yours upside down, but it wasn't very nice of you to be mean to Fluttershy, Rennie, or any of my friends!"

"You two made me look like an idiot!" Gilda exclaimed.

"You made yourself look like an idiot!" We turned to see Rainbow Dash, who looked disappointed at her. "I thought you would like my new friends and get to know them, but instead, you're treating them like manure...if being cools's all you care about, and that pranks are lame, then I suggest you make cooler friends somewhere else. Out of the those Ren and Pinkie laid out, mine was that dribble cup...guess that makes me lame, too, huh?"

The entire party went silent as we all stared at Gilda, but I turned to Rainbow, who may looked disappointed and angry at her friend, but I can almost feel her sadness coming from her.

Gilda just grew speechless at what Rainbow before making an angry expression. "...W-Well...Y-You're...You're a flip-flop! Cool one minute, and lame the next! If you want to decide not to hang out with these dweebs, which I know is obviously NEVER, come and find me!"

Gilda stormed out of the building and flew off. The party remained silent as Rainbow Dash stared at the door, where her old friend once stood, a friend who didn't care about her anymore.

"Rainbow Dash?" I called to her.

"J-just, leave me alone." She said as she flew off the building. Rainbow Dash.....





I walked out of the bakery and find Rainbow Dash sitting on top of the cloud which was above Sugarcube Corner. "Rainbow Dash!" I called out to her. Rainbow looked down and made a depressed look before coming down to me.

"What is it, Loodan?" Rainbow asked.

"I'm sorry what happen with Gilda, you're not...mad at me for making you lose your best friend, right?" I asked nervously.

"....No..I'm not angry at you Ren, I'm just disappointed that Gilda was rude to you all, and I thought she would get along with you all, but I guess I was wrong." 

"No Rainbow...it wasn't your fault." I said shaking my head. "Gilda must've been jealous that you had me, Pinkie, and the others, that's why she tried to get rid of us." I told her.

"Yeah but that doesn't excuse her to try and be mean to my friends." Rainbow let out a sigh and became sad. "I trusted her back in Flight Camp and she broke it."

I felt bad for Rainbow Dash, so I did something to cheer her up. I quickly hugged, which surprised her. "I can understand Rainbow Dash, I know what its like to be betrayed by people that you could trust." I admitted sadly.

"What? You mean, you went through what I went through?" Rainbow asked, surprise to hear someone like me was betrayed once.

"Yes, back when I was little, I was home-schooled by my parents, but when I became nine, I finally got a chance to go to school for the first time." I said sadly.

"Home school?" Rainbow asked in confusion.

"It means your learning stuff from your own home." I explained.

"Oh."

"Anyway, Once I went to school for the first time in my life, I was always bullied a lot by my classmates, because I was too naive to know what was happening and too optimistic about everything. I always trusted in others in my elementary and middle school, and I thought they were my friends. But instead, they just lower my guard and attack me from behind. Since then, I never went outside to play with anyone, but my mom told me that even if there are bad people, there are also good people in the world who will always help each other. She, dad, my brother, and my little sister were always there for me, and the reason why I always smile and be optimistic and motivate others is because of they did the same for me. I know Gilda acted like a jerk but I'm sure she'll change and apologize back to you." I explained everything to her. 

It's the sincere truth, people used me a lot to make me lower my guard so that they can hurt me more. Since then, I never hang out with anyone except for my brother and sister, and my parents. We were always together, and my parents taught me many things about the world, my brother and I reading Manga together, and my sister and I having slumber parties, I really miss those times.

Suddenly, I felt someone hugging me, I opened my eyes and saw that it was Rainbow Dash who saved me. 

"Hey, don't try to make me cry, I'm not a fan of the mushy stuff you know, but..." Rainbow Dash gave me a soft smile. "Thanks for understanding me and I'm sorry that happen to you, Loo-I mean, Ren." I smiled back at her and nodded my head to hers. 

"Yeah, and thank you and the others for always being there for me and being my first true best friends." I said happily. 

"And we're happy to be your friend too, Ren." Huh? We turned around to see Twilight and the others walking out of the bakeryand smiling towards us.

"Sorry, but we felt worried about Rainbow Dash and heard everything about your life story, sorry if we eavesdrop." Twilight apologized.

"No, it's okay. I'm just a little relief that someone listened to my story besides my family." I said letting out a sigh.

"Yeah, I know you had a rough life Rennie, but you and Dashie will always be our best best friends!" Pinkie exclaimed giving me and Rainbow Dash a big hug.

"Thanks Pinkie." I said happily as she let go of us.

"So Ren..." I turned to Dash as she made a soft smile. "How about we start over...as friends?" She offered her hoof in front of me. 

"Aren't we friends already?" I joked which made everypony laughed at that. "But then again, I'll be glad to accept your offer Dash!" I said as I grabbed her hoof until suddenly, I was shocked, literally.

"HA HA HA HA! Can't believe you fell for that Ren." Rainbow then showed me an electric buzzer on her hoof. Oh that clever little Pegasus. "And that's for ratting me earlier ago for when I was trying to hide from Pinkie Pie!"

I kept blowing my hand to get rid of the pain. I then turned back to Dash as she kept laughing at me, along with everypony else, in a good way. I couldn't help but smiled softly at them.

"Okay...I get I deserve that." I said as I started to laugh alongside them. Okay I'll admit, that...was a very clever trick she did.

"Hey everypony, let's head back in and enjoy the party!" Pinkie exclaimed, which everyone agreed. 

"Okay, I am hungry for some of that cake." I said as we began to head inside. You know, it's kinda nice to have somebody-no, I mean someponies to be with me, it makes me feel so...happy for the first time, just like when I was with my family. I just know that I can find my way back home, I just gotta stay positive and keep believing and hope that I can get back home.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 6 - Who Ya Gonna Call? Boast Busters
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So tell me again why am I being used as a magical test dummy, Twilight?" I asked as I stood in the Golden Oak Library.

"Well, I was just curious if some of my spells were affect you as well other than teleportation and levitation on you. Plus, Spike's needed to cross off the different spells I made." Twilight explained. I looked over at Spike, waving a piece of chalk around as he stood in front of the chalkboard with a list of magical spells for Twilight test out.

Okay so anyway, I was woken up earlier by Twilight as she offered a request for me to test out her new spells on me. At first, I thought it was crazy but it wouldn't hurt to try, and I do want to see what kind of different spells Unicorns like Twilight uses here in Equestria.

"Well judging from the other 24 spells you test on me, I saw it really does affect me." I said as Twilight pulled out some parchment and a quill, writing down some new info about me. I let out a sigh as I realized that I might be pestered about my kind. "Alright, I'm ready, just hit me with your best shot." 

"Okay. Now hold still." I did what she said as her horn began to charge and shot a small beam at me, aiming for my face. Oh boy, this might hurt. I closed my eyes to not get hit, but then I felt something on my face. I opened my eyes to see I have a goatee

"Spell number #25, hair growth spell!" Spike said as he crossed off the 25 spell.

"Huh, I always wanted to grow a goatee." I said touching the magically enhanced facial hair. "Some of my classmates back in middle school say that I will never grow a goatee ever in my life, but who's laughing now?" I said smiling happily.

"You do realize that I used a spell to give you that Goatee, you didn't grow it yourself, Ren." Twilight said giving me a smirk.

"I know, though it's very nice to have a goatee, thanks Twilight." I said adjusting with my new goatee, but then I noticed Twilight blushing lightly and muttering something. "Hmm? Something wrong Twilight?"

"Nothing!" She fired another beam at me and not only got rid of my goatee, but also caused me to fly off the ground, and slammed into a nearby bookshelf. Oof! Yep, that's gonna leave a mark.

"Ren?! Are you okay?!" I looked up and saw Twilight and Spike looking at me in worried.

"Don't worry Twilight, I'm okay." I said smiling softly at her until I was hit by a bunch of books that fell off the shelf. "Well....almost." I said rubbing my head.

"Sorry about that Ren." Twilight said helping me up.

"Nah, it's okay, though it would've nice to kept that goatee, oh well, I guess I'll have to grow it on my own someday." I said sighing sadly, man, if I was at back home already with that goatee, Jonas and Lillie will be surprised to have one, and I would laugh at their reactions. I then noticed Twilight blushing and muttering something, strange, what's with her?

"Um...Twilight, what's wrong?" I asked.

"O-oh, it's nothing Ren, honest!" Twilight exclaimed, but before I guess answer further, we heard some loud noises coming outside, strange, those sound like fireworks? Wonder if its another of Pinkie Pie's Welcome To Ponyville Parties? 

"What was that?" Spike asked.

"I don't know but we should go find out." I said which they both nodded in agreement.

We headed outside, only to bump see a large crowd of ponies gathered around a stage. Wonder what's going on?

"Um...what's going on?" I asked myself. Suddenly, my answer came to me as a light blue pony wearing a magician hat and a magician cape held with a jewel in the center appeared in the stage. She had light blue hair that almost matched her skin color. Her eyes looked to be light violet.

"Come one! Come all!" She announced. "Come and witness the magic of the Great and Powerful Trixie! Witness the Great and Powerful Trixie perform magical feats never witnessed by pony eyes!" 

Are you serious right now? First Gilda, now we have to deal with some third person boasting magician?

"My, my, my! What boasting!" We turned around to see Rarity and the others, having disappointing and annoyed expressions in front of the magician mare. Strange, I don't see Fluttershy around, she must be doing something back at home that she couldn't come here.

"Hey guys, what's going on?" I asked.

"Just somepony who thinks she's better than us." Applejack said rolling her eyes.

"There's nothing wrong with being talented, is there?" Twilight asked and I thought she sounded worried there.

"Nothing at all, except when someone goes around showing it off like a school filly with fancy new ribbons." Applejack replied.

"Just because one has the ability to perform lots of magic does NOT make one better than the rest of us." Rarity agreed. 

"Yeah, I agree with you there Rarity, I mean there's only one pony who's good at magic and that's-" I was immediately cut off as a magic zipper literally appeared and shut my mouth, which caused me to glare at the purple unicorn, who only smiled sheepishly.

"Whatever, I mean she's got nothing, especially when ya got me around being better than the rest of us." We all glared at Rainbow Dash as she realized this and tried to change it. "Eh, I mean, yeah, uh, magic shmagic. Boo!"

"Well, well, well, it seems we have some neigh sayers in the audience. Who is so ignorant as to challenge the magical ability of the Great and Powerful Trixie? Do they not know that they're in the presense of the most magical unicorn in all of Equestria?" If by most magical, you mean most boastful and too annoying, then yes.

Rarity blew a raspberry at her and said "Just who does she think she is?" 

"Yeah!" Spike barged in. "Since we all know that Twilight here is-"

"Spike! Shhh!" Twilight tried to silence Spike, taking him to somewhere they could talk in private. What's going on with Twilight? Is...she afraid of battling this egotistical mare?

I furrow my brows and removed the zipper out of my mouth by unzipping it, huh, kinda ironic but whatever. "Oh really? You don't seem powerful to me?" I said smirking at her.

Trixie turned to me, at first she was surprise to see some weird creature like me, but then glared at me. "And who do you think you are, you mindless hairless ape." Why do people like calling me that these days?

"I'm Ren Loodan, and in case you're wondering what I am, I'm a human!" I said glaring at the mare and gripping on my Hacking Gun.

"Ha! Ren Loodan?! What a stupid name! More like Pen Looney, besides, you really think you can fight against the Great and Powerful Trixie!" Trixie exclaimed showing off more fireworks.

"Uhh...kinda, since you're more like the Most Annoying and Boastful Trixie in all of Equestria." I said as it got everypony laughing. Trixie gritted her teeth in anger as she used her horn to lift me in the air.

"Hey, let our friend go!" Applejack exclaimed in anger.

"Oh please, like this hairless ape can defeat me in a duel!" Trixie said as she threw me away. I was flying further from her, but before i could hit the ground, Rainbow Dash had caught up to me and caught me before I could get hurt.

"Gotcha!" Rainbow said, smiling.

"Thanks." I said giving her a thumbs up.

She took me back to where I was previously and flew up to Trixie's face in anger.

Hey! What makes you think you can do that to my friend? Afraid of the truth?" Rainbow Dash questioned.

Trixie laughed. "The truth? It is just a mere sign of jealousy of a common fool!"

I started to go back to tell off Trixie, but Applejack held me back.

"Easy there..." Applejack restrained. Oh, that mare is so gonna get it.

"So, Great and Powerful Trixie, what makes you think you're so awesome, anyway?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Heh, why, only the Great and Powerful Trixie has magic strong enough to VANQUISH THE DREADED URSA MAJOR!"

Fanfare and fireworks followed. Her audience gasped at her "amazement",but it left Twilight surprised and me confused. What the heck is an Ursa Major?

"Behold, Ponyville, as Trixie will weave a tale that is true and displays Trixie's magnificent magical prowess! For the Great and Powerful Trixie has vanquished an ursa major by the power of her magic alone!" Trixie began using her magic to create a visual image of the "true" story of how she vanquished the ursa major. "The ursa major had went on a rampage, the ponies of Hoofington had no means of protecting themselves from the dreaded beast. But, the Great and Powerful Trixie had arrived, hearing the ponies' pleas, and used her magic to banish the ursa back to the Everfree Forest from whence it came!" 

"Hoofington's nowhere near the Everfree Forest," Applejack muttered to us. "Her story makes no sense." 

"You can say that again." I said rolling my eyes at the magician.

"I agree with you both, I mean what Trixie said about getting rid of the Ursa Major is impossible." Twilight said.

"What are Ursa Majors anyway, Twilight?" I asked in curiosity.

"Ursa Majors are bear-like creatures and the largest and most dangerous creatures in all of Equestria. Only Princess Celestia has the power to stop one." Well it kinda makes sense because she does look like a pony who's quite strong and powerful.

"Sounds kinda similar to a bear..." I muttered

"Trixie truly is the most talented, the most magical, the most awesome unicorn in Ponyville." A kid walked up to the stage, encouraging her boasting.

"No, in all of Equestria!" Another one added, increasing the encouragement. I looked at the kids and it caused me to raise a brow at how they look. One of the colts was a lanky orange unicorn with a green mare, his cutie mark being a snail. The others was a shorter, chubby colt, his color palette similar to the other's, though swapped around, his cutie mark was a pair of scissors.

"How do you know? You didn't see it! And besides, Twi-"Twilight zipped Spike's mouth shut, literally with her magic, what is going on with her? Is there something...troubling her? "Mmph! M-mmph!" Spike continued to try to disprove her bragging. I could feel how angry he was getting from Trixie's boasting.

Trixie laughed as she said "It's true, my enthusiastic little admirers. Trixie is most certainly the best in Ponyville."

After she said, there was nothing but silence and crickets. Yeah, okay she's literally the worst ever, I mean, why the heck do we even listen to that fake story? I mean its obvious that she made it up, don't these guys know the thing call common sense?....Scratch that, logic here in this world never makes sense at all.

"Don't believe The Great and Powerful Trixie?" Trixie asked as she started to laugh at all of us. "Well then, I hereby challenge you, Ponyvillians - anything you can do, I can do better. Any takers? Anyone? Or is Trixie destined to be the greatest equine who has ever lived?" Trixie use her magic to perform fireworks and fanfare again. 

Okay, I can challenge this sorry mare's butt and make sure she learns her lesson.

Spike managed to unzipped himself and started begging Twilight. "Please! She's unbearable! Ya gotta show her! Ya just gotta!"

Twilight began whispering to Spike, but she was interrupted by Trixie.

"Hmm, how about...You!" She pointed to Twilight, much to her shock. "Well, how about it? Hm? Is there anything you can do that the Great and Powerful Trixie can't?"

"I...I..." Twilight stuttered as she was at the verge of tears. Oh no, I can't let her be like this.

"Hey, leave her alone!" I exclaimed at the magician mare and stepping in front of Twilight. "Stop bullying her, she doesn't want to fight you!" It's time to teach this mare some manners, but before I could say anything else, Applejack stood in front of me, giving Trixie an angry glare.

"That's it! I can't stand for no more of this!" Applejack finally broke. "Stand back Ren, I'll protect both you and Twilight!"

"You show her, AJ!" Spike encouraged.

"Yeah, teach this mare who's boss!" I added

"Can your magical powers do THIS?" Applejack began using a lasso to do a few tricks and then tossing it to grab an apple off the tree and bringing it back to her mouth to eat it, which made everypony cheered, even I was impress. "Top that, missy."

"Oh ye of little talent. Watch and be amazed at the magic of Trixie!" Trixie began her turn, revealing the horn under her hat. She used her magic to grab the rope Applejack had used and hypnotize her with its Snake-like movements. She used the other end of the rope to grab an apple from a nearby tree. With the snake end, she tied Applejack's legs and placed the apple in her mouth. The audience laughed and cheered.

"Once again, the Great and Powerful Trixie prevails." Trixie announced as I rushed over to help Applejack, untying the rope and getting rid of the apple in her mouth.

"Thanks…" She sighed and gave Trixie a mean stare.

"There's no need to go struttin' around and showin' off like that." Rainbow Dash challenged.

"Oh?" Trixie replied, intrigued by Rainbow Dash's comment.

"That's MY job!" Of course it is, Rainbow. She immediately flew through a windmill, shot upwards like a rocket through clouds, puncturing them. She stopped in front of the sun and then dashed downwards through the punctured clouds, repeating her pathway. When she arrived back at the stage, a rainbow emerged on top of her from the water droplets she had carried.

"They don't call me 'Rainbow' and 'Dash' for nothin'!" Rainbow Dash said which made the crowd cheer loudly like they did for Applejack. Wait, they should be cheering for Applejack and Rainbow, not that magician. Come on people, make up your mind who should you cheer.

"When Trixie is through, the only thing they'll call you is loser." Trixie replied. She used her magic to use the rainbow Rainbow Dash made and wrap it around her. She spinned the rainbow, causing Rainbow Dash to form a tornado for a few seconds until she stopped outside the stage, dazed.

"Seems like any pony with a DASH of good sense would think twice before tussling with the Great Trixie."

Applejack had helped Rainbow Dash up. However, she formed a dark cloud and caused lightning to strike Rainbow Dash.

"OW!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. Oh, that's gonna leave a mark. Everypony started to laugh at her...this laughter...this reminds me back in my elementary school days...where I was laugh at for my naivety.

"What we need is another unicorn to challenge her. Someone with some magic of her own." Spike said glaring at the magician.

"Yeah! A Unicorn to show this unicorn who's boss." Rainbow agreed.

"A real unicorn to unicorn tussle." Applejack added.

"A unicorn who uses her magic for good and who believes in Friendship." I added as well.

"Enough. Enough, all of you." Rarity exclaimed. " I take your hint, but Rarity is above such nonsense. Rainbow Dash and Applejack may behave like ruffians, but Rarity conducts herself with beauty and grace." I face-palmed at her not knowing who were we talking about.

"Ooo, what's the matter? Afraid you'll get a hair out of place in that rat's nest you call a mane?" Trixie insulted Rarity.

"Oh, it. Is. On! You may think you're tough with all your so-called powers, but there's more to magic than your brutish ways. A unicorn needs to be more than just muscle. A unicorn needs to have style." Rarity used her magic to grab the curtain Trixie was using and create an instant dress for herself. "A unicorn is not a unicorn without grace and beauty." Rarity said as the audience gave "Ooh"s.

However, Trixie began using her magic as Spike backed up Rarity. "Rarity won't let Trixie get the best of her! She's strong, she's beautiful, she's—

Trixie had changed Rarity, causing the audience to gasp. Oh god, okay she's taking this too far!

"QUICK! I NEED A MIRROR! GET ME A MIRROR! What did she do to my hair? I know she did something terrible to my hair!" Rarity squealed.

Me, Twilight, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack tried to prevent Rarity from freaking out.

"It's still better than ever!"

"Nothing."

"It's fine."

"It's gorgeous."

Spike ruined the chain. "It's green…" Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Applejack and I looked over to Spike with angry expressions. "What?" He asked.

"No. Green hair! Not green hair!" She cried. Her hair was indeed changed to a green color, that which looked as if it actually had been turned to grass. "Such an awful, awful color!" She continued crying, running away.

A pony she passed, who had green hair, exclaimed, "Well, I never!"

Well, Twilight, guess it's up to you." Spike insisted. "Come on, show her what you're made of."

Trixie blew on her hoof and rubbed it against her front leg.

"What do you mean? I'm nothing special." Twilight replied.

"Yes, you are! You're better than her!"

"I'm not better than anyone."

"Hah! You think you're better than the Great and Powerful Trixie? You think you have more magical talent? Well, come on, show Trixie what you've got. Show us all." Trixie provoked.

"Who, me? I'm just your run of the mill citizen of Ponyville. No powerful magic here. I, uh...I think I hear my laundry calling. Sorry, gotta go!" Twilight declined and ran off, leaving me in surprise. Is she....oh of course, she doesn't want to show off her skills like Trixie, that's the problem.

"Twilight?" Spike called.

"HA! Once again, the Great and Powerful Trixie has proven herself to be the most amazing unicorn in all of Equestria! Was there ever any doubt?" Trixie said as she began laughing. That's it, if she thinks she so better, well we'll see about that.

"Trixie!" I called out to her.

"UGH! What is it now, you hairless ape?" Trixie asked already getting tired of me.

"I have had enough of your stupidity, your nothing more than a bully! You treating everypony like their not nothing and you should more better than anypony, even Princess Celestia!" I exclaimed in anger.

"Oh please, The Great and Powerful Trixie is far better than anypony, including naive little apes." Trixie started laughing at me, making me for furious than ever, but then I made a smirk and thought of something that will make her challenge me.

"Oh...well Ren thinks Trixie's third person act is making Ren and his friends uncomfortable." Everypont started laughing at Trixie because I mocked her third person act, making her extremely angry at me. "And Ren thinks you should go look at a mirror, because Ren thinks Twilight is more better than you'll ever be."

"Oh really? And tell Trixie why is that?" Trixie said gritting her teeth angrily.

"Twilight studies a lot and practices her magic, and helps anypony around. Trixie likes to goof and show off and like to insult everypony she's meet." I said smirking at her, making her more angry than ever. "Twilight cares about her friends, Trixie cares about her boasting and her self. Twilight is the most sweetest, caring, and lovable pony. You're just a boasting, selfish magician of a mare." The more I said, the more fury Trixie felt.

"And your point is?" Trixie said growling angry at me.

"My point is that Twilight is far better than you and everypony else here thinks that your story was nothing but a lie and you can't beat an Ursa Major or." Boom! And I met every word about both her and Twilight, and did I just went emotional when I call Twilight 'lovable'?

"Okay, that's it! You think you're so much better than Trixie, eh?" She asked, which I nodded bluntly. "Alright then! I challenge you hairless ape to a duel and Trixie will show you that Trixie is far better than that Twilight Sparkle pony!" Trixie said offering me to come up her stage. 

I walked over to her stage as we stood on our sides, glaring at each other. 

"Ha, this will be a piece of cake for Trixie." Trixie said smirking at herself.

"Okay, I'll let you have the first move." I said bowing to her.

"Why thank you....for letting me win!" She shot a beam at me, but I immediately grabbed my Hacking Gun and shot 'Break' back to her, colliding with her magic beam, creating a small explosion. Once the smoke cleared off, I could see her shock expression, much to my joy.

She then formed an angry expression at me and said "B-but how did you?!"

"Never underestimate a human, especially if he has a Megaphone Hacking Gun." I said pointing my Hacking Gun in front of her. She then growled at me and teleported. Where could she be?

"Gotcha!" I turned around to see she fired a beam at me, but I immediately duck and roll over. 

"Paralyze!" I said shooting an electric beam out of the Megaphone Hacking Gun. She got it by hit, which caused her to be electrocuted. 

"Link!" I said shooting a colorful heart beam at her, now she's under my control.

"W-what the?! Why can't Trixie move my body?! What do you do to Trixie-"

"Okay, that's enough third person act out of you, now shut up!" I said which made her shut up. Oh, that's new. Let's see now, oh I know!

"Hi, I'm the Great and Powerful Trixie, or more like the Dumb and Boastful Trixie, and Trixie would like to say that Trixie is nothing more than a fraud and Trixie thinks Twilight Sparkle is more powerful, almost powerful as Princess Celestia." I said making Trixie said those words I said. Ha, comedy gold, even the audience thought it was amusing.

The link effects started to run out as Trixie came out of my control and glared at me. "You shall pay for what you made Trixie say!" Trixie said as she shot a beam at me.

"Break!" I shot Break at the beam, creating another explosion. I then set it on 'Detect' and use it to see what's happening in the smoke. I then noticed Trixie preparing another beam, ah I see, you're using a sneak attack, well too bad.

"Break!" I shouted shooting at her through the smoke. Trixie was hit by Break and fell down once the smoke cleared off. She got up and glared back at me. 

"Trixie doesn't understand, how can I be losing to some hairless ape!?" Trixie exclaimed.

"Here's why, because you're too overconfident and thinks she more better than anypony here in Ponyville, well too bad, because everypony here is unique, not just you. They can use their talents to help make the world better and help others, isn't that why you became a magician?"

"W-what?" She asked in confusion.

"Magic is meant to make people happy, make them inspire others, all you're doing is just making others miserable and just make them hate you more!" I exclaimed.

"D-d-don't tell Trixie what to do?! Trixie is far better than anypony here in all of Equestria, even to you, hairless ape!" Trixie shot a powerful beam at but I intercepted it with a powerful 'Break' attack, which shot past the beam and hit Trixie, causing her to fall off her stage and into a puddle. Okay, I went too far. The crowd started cheering for me as I ran off the stage and went to help Trixie.

"Oh no, are you okay?!" I said running off the stage and tried to help her, but she slapped it away. 

"Stay away from me you...hairless ape. I don't need to take advice from some weird creature, Trixie is far superior than anypony here in Ponyville, in fact, all of Equestria!" She said using her magic to get rid of the water out of her cape and hat.

"B-but I didn't mean-"

"Enough! You may have won the battle, but Trixie shall win the war!"

"War of what?" She came closed to my face and said "The war of being the best!" Trixie then pushed me aside and then glared at me.

"You think you're so better huh? Well Trixie thinks you've cheated!"

"What?!" Rainbow exclaimed as she and the other girls came to my side, and somehow Rarity got her old hairstyle back, but like I said, don't question the logic in this world.

"What makes you think he cheated?" Applejack asked angrily at Trixie.

"Easy, Trixie was never expecting for him to use that kind of weapon!" Trixie pointed at my Megaphone Hacking Gun. Well excuse me, but you were using Magic, and you call me the cheater?

"Ren here was just using it because you were using Magic, same difference?" Rainbow asked.

"Whatever! Trixie still thinks he cheated, so that makes Trixie the victor!" Trixie said pulling out more fireworks and fanfare. She sure likes to use that a lot huh?

"But that's not fair!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"All fair in love and war, now Trixie's show is over everypony, all of you can leave!" Trixie said as she disappeared behind the curtains as the stage merged back into some caravan, so wait, they have vehicles in this world? What kind of era is Equestria in anyway? Oh well, doesn't matter, at least I taught her a lesson anyway.

"Oh that mare makes me so angry!" Rarity said. 

"Whatever, besides, that battle was awesome!" Rainbow said as she patted me on the back hard, it almost made me fell over. "You showed her a thing or two Ren!"

"I think it would have been more fair if you went easy on her." Applejack said feeling unsure about the battle I had with Trixie. "And you didn't have to show off like that."

"You're right, sorry about that you guys." I said sadly smiling at them. "But I was just trying to make her see what her boasting was going to cost her if she kept doing that, I mean, she hurt you guys and I wasn't gonna stand back and allow her to bully you, so I had to do something." I explained to them.

"Oh, that's so nice of you to do that for us, Rennie." Pinkie said smiling happily at me.

"Well we appreciate for your kindness and help Ren, but Applejack is right, I didn't have to show off like that."

"Are you kidding, Rarity?! I mean, come on, he's helped us find the Elements of Harmony and defeat Nightmare Moon!" Rainbow said giving me a grin. "But he's not as awesome as me. I'm way more awesome."

"Yeah, sure you are Rainbow." I said rolling my eyes at her. "But I can understand Trixie, I feel as though that she wasn't always like this, do you think something caused her to be like that?" I asked.

"Pfft! Who cares, what's more important that you showed her a thing or two!" Rainbow said, giving me a noogie. Okay, that hurts even more when rubbing someone's head with a hoof.

"Heh heh, thanks Rainbow." I said smiling, but then I noticed Twilight standing far away from us off a distance. "Though, I kinda wished Twilight face off Trixie and showed her a lesson." This caused the others to be confused on what I said.

"Well that'll sure be a fun fight to see!" Pinkie said bouncing around me.

"I guess so Ren darling, but why?" Rarity asked in confusion.

"Well you should seen her earlier, she like performed twe-" My lips were once again sealed by Twilight's zipper spell, causing me to glare at the purple unicorn as she came over with a nervous laughter.

"Ha ha, that's very funny Ren!" Twilight said trying not to sound suspicious but she knows that I can't be fooled that easily...well most of the time, sometimes, basely on a coin flip or such. "I mean, me? In a duel? Of magic?! Ha ha! I'm now powerful at all! Just a normal unicorn! Come on, let's head back to the library and get you caught up with how Equestria works! Got a lot of studying to do other than you reading some boring comic books all day long right?" Twilight then dragged me by the hoodie, confusing her friends and making me angry. How dare she mock my Manga? They aren't boring, they're fun and exciting!





Later

I was sitting in a chair, my mouth was still trapped inside the zipper spell while Twilight was busy trying to search for some book. I couldn't even voice out my complains of that stupid 'zipper spell' she put on me. Oh well, while I wait, I guess I could do something.

I noticed a notepad on the floor and decided to draw something. Been a while since I draw something, I kinda stopped drawing since back in middle school because of....many reasons. Luckily, there was a pencil was on the ground as well, so I guess it's not a problem.

I don't how long it's been, but Twilight has finally got her stuff for our 'study session'.

"Okay, I think that's about everything!" Twilight said as she sat in front of me, still drawing...something that I wished not to speak with because it's quite embarrassing. "Now, let's talk about the history of Equestria." She smiled, acting oblivious as she opened the book up to some random chapter. "How about we start with-"

"Twilight, I think Ren has something to say and he's kinda busy with something on that notepad." Spike said, already finding her behavior suspicious, so I guess I wasn't the only one, huh? 

"W-what are you talking about Spike?" Twilight asked sweating nervously.

I gave her a blank expression as I put down my notepad and pencil down and unzip the zipper out of my mouth. "He means that you've been acting weird ever since Trixie showed up." I said which surprised both Twilight and Spike.

"Wait? You could unzip spell number #7?" Spike asked, which I nodded. "Then why didn't you do so earlier then?!" 

"One, because Twilight was pulling me off my hoodie, and two, I kinda just forgot." I said feeling quite embarrassed. "Anyway, why did you cut me off earlier ago?"

"I-I-I don't know what you mean." Twilight tried to grab another book, but I stopped her from avoiding the subject.

"Yes you do. You stopped me from telling the others how good you are with magic." I said which made Twilight feel sad, looking away from me. "Why don't you want them to know? You're amazing!...Even though you used one of those spells to shut me up." I said rubbing my head.

"...I don't want to be a showoff..." Twilight said as she was at the verge of tears. "I don't want our friends to hate me...Trixie tried to prove she was better than everypony else, and nopony liked her..."

Twilight, I understand now. You were afraid of losing your best friends because you believed that if she showed any of her magical spells to them, she would immediately be hated by them. She was Celestia's personal student, intelligent and quite powerful, but from her lack of making any friends in the past, she never knew about what expectations her friends were supposed to make. And after seeing how freaked out she was when the girls pestered her over the Gala tickets, she was clueless to how they don't care about what she does as long as she didn't behave like Trixie.

While Twilight was crying, I gave her hug, which caused her to be surprise. "Twilight, just because you know a lot of magic spells, it doesn't mean that when you show them to anyone else doesn't mean they'll hate you. Trixie isn't liked because she kept bragging about how good she was, saying she's better than anypony else. You saw how I proved her wrong when she clearly said I couldn't beat her at what I'm good at."

"Ren's right, Twilight." Spike said as I let go of her, but I think I saw her blushing at me lightly. "You could have easily one-upped Trixie with magic you knew. If the others tried to challenge her, and they failed, you would be using your magic to defend them and prove to her you were the better unicorn." Wow Spike, that's...a pretty good point, why didn't I think of that?

"I...I guess you're right, Spike." Twilight nodded to him in agreement.

"Exactly Twilight, I mean, I'm not good at anything at all you see, I'm just...average." I said rubbing my head in embarrassment.

"Um...what's this?" I turned to Spike, who picked up the notepad I had and showed it to us. You see...uh...how should I put it..

"Is that....me and my friends?" Twilight said gazing at the drawing I made. Yes, it was a drawing of Twilight and the others, smiling happily. 

"Y-yeah..." I muttered blushing.

"Wow, you're really a good artist, I didn't know you were good at art." Spike said smiling towards me.

"W-well, back then, I love drawing pictures back when I was a kid, but when I never showed any of my drawings to anyone." This caused Twilight and Spike to become confused.

"But why's that? I mean I bet the others might be jealous of your art skills." Spike said happily. 

I let out a sigh and turned to him. "You see guys...when I was in middle school, a cute girl in my class came to me and asked me if I was good at art since I was busy drawing some pictures during Recess, and then I told her yes." I explained sadly.

"Then what happen?" Twilight asked.

"Well...she asked me if I could draw a drawing of her, so I said yes and-"

"No wait, don't tell us..." Spike cut me off. "You made the drawing for her, and she became so happy for you making it so she gave you a kiss." 

"Yeah...no, I'm good at art, but when I showed her the drawing I made out of her, all she just did was laughed at me and said that I was terrible at it, and just walked away, leaving me in tears." I said sadly, I didn't want to admit but it was a question, besides, that was in the past, so I have to keep on moving forward. 

Twilight and Spike gasped in shock to hear something like that happen to me. "Ren...I'm so sorry to hear something like that happen to you." Twilight said giving me a hug back, much to my surprise.

"I-it's okay Twilight, ever since then, I stopped showing my art skills to anyone, not even my parents, well maybe I do show my drawings to my sister, but still, I never showed anyone the drawings I made ever again." I said sadly.

"Well, that was one pony's perspective." Spike said. "You can't judge that base one's perspective, I'm sure there's someone back home who would like your drawings." You do have a point Spike, but still...

"I..guess so..." I muttered.

"Hey, don't worry Ren, I appreciate your skills, in fact, if you show this to everypony, they'll think you're a good artist." Twilight said happily as she let me go. You know, maybe so, I guess I could try. But before I could respond, a loud roar  was heard outside.

"What the heck was that?" I asked, surprised to hear that sound.

"I don't know, but its coming outside!" Twilight said as we headed outside to see everpony running in terror. We looked around to figure out what was happening until we saw something that scared us. A big blue bear appeared rampaging through the town, I took a closer look and saw that it's body almost looked like stars or such.

"What in the world is that?!" I exclaimed.

"I think that's a-"

"GAAAAHHHHH!" Twilight was interrupted as two familiar fillies came running in fear. Wait a minute, I know those two, they're those kids who were praising Trixie!

"What's going on?!" I asked.

"We brought an Ursa Major in town!" One of them replied.

"You did WHAT?! Twilight exclaimed.

"Yeah but don't worry, The Great and Powerful Trixie can vanquish it!" So they brought it in town just so they can see her beat an Ursa Major, okay, I understand they're kids but come on!

"W-what?!" We turned around to see Trixie, opening the curtains in surprise. Okay, how did we miss her caravan?

"Yeah, you can do it, oh Great and Powerful Trixie!" The small chubby one said.

"I-I-I can't.." Trixie said finally admitting it, much to the fillies shock.

"WHAT?!" The two kids shouted.

"Uh, I can't, I never have. No one can vanquish an Ursa Major. I just made the whole story up to make me look better!"

"MADE IT UP?!" We heard another growl coming from the Ursa Major as it began to run towards us.

"Twilight, you need to use your magic!" I exclaimed, much to her shock.

"B-b-but I can't, everypony will just-"

"Twilight please!" I firmly gripped her shoulders. "You can do this! I believe in you, please!" I said to her. Twilight thought for a while until she made a serious expression.

"Okay then, you distract it while I'll go grab something from the library, I know how to beat it!" Twilight exclaimed as she ran towards back to the Golden Oaks Library. 

We turned around to see the Ursa Major making another terrible and ferocious roar. I feel like I've seen this from a movie but now's not the time.

"Okay, you guys need to get out of here, I'll distract it!" I said sternly. Not needed to be told twice, Spike, the two fillies, and Trixie ran for their lives to stay safe while I face off the Ursa Major.

"Oh boy..." I muttered as I began to feel afraid of it, but I have to be brave and stay strong if I'm gonna beat that Ursa Major. I grabbed my Hacking Gun from behind me and aimed for its face.

"Break!" I shouted as I shot a blue energy sphere at it, but as the beam hit its face, it only did little damage to it. "Well this is going to be harder than I thought." I muttered.

The Ursa Major growled at me and prepared to use its claws at me. 

"Whoa!" I said as I duck and roll from that attack and shot another one. "Paralyze!" I shouted as it got the Ursa Major electrocuted.

"Now...Break!" I shouted shooting multiple shots at the Ursa Major, causing great damage to it. Once the 'Paralyze' affects wear off. He growled at me angrily and started to chase me.

"W-whoa!" I said as I tried to dodge it claws. "Twilight? Where are you?!" I said as I kept running around Ponyville, avoiding the enraged Ursa Major, until I suddenly stopped in front of a dead end. I turned around and saw the Ursa Major coming close to me, causing me to be pale.

"Don't do this, don't do this, don't do this! Please don't eat me alive, I taste terrible, please, don't eat me!" I muttered, scared out of my wits. Before the Ursa Major could do anything to me, I began to hear some soothe music all of a sudden, and not only that, that music is making the Ursa Major calm down.

This was my chance now! I ran out of the alley and went past the Ursa Major and saw Twilight was the one making that music, causing me to smile in joy.

Twilight then use her horn to lift us a water tower nearby and hovered it over to Sweet Apple Acres, and it came back, full of milk for some strange reason. She then shook it for a while and gave it to the Ursa Major, who apparently was sucking it, almost like a baby would do. Twilight gave off an exerting grunt but kept going as she levitated the Ursa Major over the town and toward back to the Everfree Forest. With the Ursa Major gone, Twilight stopped her spells, and collapsed. I quickly ran over towards and helped her up.

"You okay?" I asked.

"Y-yeah, I think so, so how did I do?" She asked tiredly.

"That...was pretty cool. I told you that you could do it." I said smiling softly at her, causing her to blush. Okay seriously, why is she blushing whenever I compliment her?

Everypony came out to observe, and started cheering for her. "Heavens to Betsy!" Applejack exclaimed in shock. "We knew you had ability, but not that much!" 

"I'm sorry!" Twilight immediately replied. "Please, please don't hate me!"

"Hate you?" Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Applejack exclaimed in unison.

"Why, whatever do you mean, darling?" Rarity asked.

"Well, I know how much you all hated Trixie's showing off her magic tricks, and I just thought-"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa." Rainbow Dash said cutting Twilight off. "Magic's got nothing to do with it. Trixie's just a loudmouth."

"Most unpleasant." Rarity added.

"All hat and no cattle." Applejack finished.

"So...you don't mind my magic tricks?" Twilight asked.

"Your magic is a part of who you are, sugar cube, and we like who you are. We're proud to have such a powerful, talented unicorn as our friend." Applejack explained. I nodded towards what she said.

"And after whuppin' that ursa's hind quarters, we're even prouder." Rainbow Dash encouraged.

"You are?" Twilight asked smiling softly at her friends.

"Uh-huh."

"Mm-hmm." 

"Yep." Everypony agreed.

"See Twilight, I told you that they'll never hate you for abusing and showing off Magic, they do care about you." I said which made Twilight smile happily at me. "By the way, how did you know what to do with that Ursa Major?" I asked curiously.

"Well earlier ago back when we were back in the library while you were drawing on one of my notepads, I happen to come across that subject and decided to do a little reading up to them."

"So it is possible to vanquish an Ursa Major by yourself?" Spike asked.

"Oh, that wasn't an Ursa Major, that was an Ursa Minor." Twilight said bluntly, which caused all of us to be in shock. "Besides, Ursa Minor are nothing more than babies."

"You mean that thing wasn't an Ursa Major." We turned to see Trixie walking in front of the crowd in shock. "It was nothing more than a baby!"

"Umm...are you sure it was a baby, it seemed to be a lot bigger." I said gently patting Twilight's head, which she swatted away with her hoof.

"Yeah it was Ren, besides, it wasn't rampaging, it was just cranky because somepony woke it up." Twilight explained, giving an angry glare at the kids. Soon enough, everypony glared at them for causing an Ursa 'Minor' to come and attack Ponyville.

"Well, if that was an Ursa Minor, then what's an Ursa Major look like then?" Spike asked.

"You...don't wanna know." Twilight responded after thinking for a moment. Yeah, I think she has a point, I don't even want to know what it even looks like in real life, probably more bigger than that Ursa Minor.

"Huh." Trixie then walked over to me and Twilight. "You and your hairless ape friend may have vanquished an Ursa Minor, but you have not bested an Ursa Major like I have!"

"Oh shut up already Trixie, besides you even admitted that you never beaten an Ursa Major before, and you couldn't even beaten an Ursa Minor." I said, which everypony nodded and murmured in agreement, much to Trixie's shock. "Besides, Twilight saved us all from that Ursa Minor, and I even help out a little to distract it, so you should be thanking her."

"W-whatever, you may have won this time Twilight Sparkle, but mark my words, Trixie will be the one who defeats you and your stupid friends!" Trixie exclaimed, much to Twilight's eye roll. "And you!" Trixie pointed towards me,, much to my shock. "You think you're so much better than Trixie herself, eh? With that stupid megaphone gun in your hands."

"I never said that-"

"Be quiet!" Trixie cut me off. "Soon, Trixie will be back greater than ever, you all have never seen the last of the Great and Powerful Trixie!" Trixie then stomped her hooves to the ground as a  cloud of smoke appeared around her, and she disappeared.

Pinkie gasped in shock upon seeing this. "She's gone!" Pinkie exclaimed before noticing something. "No wait, there she is." We all looked at see Trixie running off from town. Rainbow Dash was about to go chase after her but I stopped her.

"No Dash, it's best if we don't, but something tells me this isn't the last time we'll ever see her again." I said looking at where Trixie was standing before she left.

"Just let her go. Maybe someday she'll learn her lesson. Now, about you two." Twilight noticed the two kids trying to sneak out and glared at them.

The small one laughed nervously. "Uh we're sorry that we woke up the Ursa Minor."

The tall one spoke, "We just wanted to see some AWESOME MAGIC."

"Yeah! And the way you vanquished that Ursa Minor was AWESOME!"

Twilight looked at them, seriously. They bowed down before her and spoke sulkily. "We deserve whatever punishment you give us."

"For starters, you can clean up this mess." She looked over at the broken stage where Trixie performed. " And..." She looked at Spike. "What do you think, Spike? Should I give them number twenty five?"

"Oh, twenty five! Yes! And I think I deserve it, too." Spike agreed.

The kids wondered what they were talking about. Oh wait, Spell number #25! It's that hair growth spell! Oh, this should be good!

"I think you're right!" Twilight said as she casted her magic at them, which Spike held out his face with them. Once the smoke cleared off, the three of them had mustaches on their face.

"SWEET!" The three of them exclaimed. Aw man, wish I still had that goatee

Twilight then turned to me with a soft smile on her face. "I guess I should have listen to you Ren." 

"It's alright...Applejack's right, you shouldn't be afraid of your talents. Just don't use them for the wrong reasons like Trixie." I said to her.

"You're right, and I think you should take her advice too." I became surprised on what Twilight said.

"M-me?!" I asked.

"Well of course, I think your art skills are amazing, and I think you'll do wonderful Ponyville's very own artist." I-I guess so Twilight, but still...what would they think of me?

"Wait wait, hold on!" Rainbow Dash said as she got into our conversation. "Ren is an artist?!" I nodded my head, blushing lightly.

"Wowie zowie Ren, that's amazing! You gotta show us your paintings, drawings, everything you ever drew!" Pinkie exclaimed. Well, I'm not even sure if that's even possible since I am trapped in their world.

"I think being an artist is quite lovely, Ren darling." Rarity added.

"Yeah Ren, I think your drawings might be something we should see." Applejack said smiling happily at me. You guys...really appreciate my skills. I smiled softly at them for their appreciation and likeness about my art skills.

"Okay, I'll make some tomorrow." I said as I noticed it was getting late. "Wow, time sure flies. Well, I'll see you guys later, bye!" I said as I ran off and waved goodbye to my new friends. You know, it's kinda nice to someone-sorry, I meant someponies to admire my skill as an artist. 





Later, back at home

I was back at home, in my bedroom, putting my Hacking Gun in charge. Ahh, it sure was one heck of a day. I gazed at the night sky and began to wonder something. I wonder how Princess Luna is doing with her sister and I even wonder if Princess Celestia had found a way to send me back home.

Oh well, I guess I'll just have to wait. As I went to the closet to put on my PJ's, I accidentally stumped my toe on something. "OW!" I shouted in pain. I looked at what I stumped my toe at, and saw something even deeper from my closet. I bent down and grabbed the 'thing' out of the corner of the closet. It was a gray case.

"Strange...what is it?" I asked myself. I noticed a small note on the case and read through it.

"Here's a little something we made for you, just remember, don't lose it, it's a prototype. We even had the necessary tools for you to fix in case if its break down. Remember, always believe in the sake of Hope and humanity."

No name on it either, first the Hacking Gun, and now...this? Wonder what's inside? I opened it up and became surprised to see what it was.

"This is....awesome!" I exclaimed in shock. Oh, can't wait for Twilight and the others to see this!

To Be Continued
> Chapter 7 - Dragonshy
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I was running away in fear, trying to run away from them.

"GET BACK HERE!" I kept running and running, ignoring the voices calling me.

"YOU CAN'T GET AWAY FROM US!"

"YOU'RE GONNA GET IT, KID!"

Suddenly, I skidded on a halt in the middle of a bridge and saw a group of people at the end of the bridge, I tried going back but the other group of people that were chasing me blocked the exit as well.

"Why are you doing this?!" I asked getting scared of them.

"You know why!" An old man said angrily.

"You think you were chosen for it makes you think you're better than  all of us!?" A man in his early 20s said.

"N-no, I never say that-"

"Well too bad, why is it that you get to live but we don't?!" A woman in her late 40s asked.

"I-I'm sorry everyone, b-b-but you must understand, even I don't think the plan they made is not good, I don't want to leave my family behind!" I exclaimed letting out some tears.

"Well too bad, get him everybody!" Soon enough, the crowd started to get closer and closer towards me, and there was nowhere to go. I'm trapped...all alone...with no one to help me.

Suddenly, a bright flash circled around the area, causing me to black out.





"GAH!" I woke up in an instant as I looked around and saw that I was back in my own home. Oh, another nightmare, but what does these nightmares be? Could it be related to any of my lost memories? Oh well, I guess I'll about that later, right now, I gotta go and show Twilight and the others that little 'thing' I found in my closet. I quickly got out of bed, and did the usual.

Put on my clothes, grabbed my fully charged Hacking Gun, cook and ate breakfast, which consisted of delicious pancakes since I can't eat meat in this world because...well you know...and finally, I got the suitcase and took out the special surprise into a single strap red backpack I found last night as well.

I quickly got out of my home and ran straight towards Ponyville. Once I arrived, I saw everypony minding their own business and such until I came across Ponyville Park, huh, strange. Why didn't I notice this place before? Oh well, I'll think about it later. Anyway, as I entered the place and saw a dodge ball and a rainbow streak intercepting it, and I know anypony with a rainbow streak like that.

"Don't be such a scaredy-pony, it's just me!" Rainbow Dash said as she bounced the ball of her head and rump. "Future Equestria ball-bouncing record holder. 346, 347..." Looks like she's trying to break some record of some kind, I'll ask later.

"This calls for a celebration!" I overheard Pinkie shouting.

"Hey guys!" I called, gaining both of the mares attention.

"Oh hey Ren, what are you doing here?" Rainbow asked still bumping the ball on her head.

"And what's in that pack of yours?!" Pinkie asked pointing at my backpack in my hands.

"Oh, this is a very special surprise that I gotta show you guys." I said as I unzipped my bag. "I found it last night right before I went to bed."

"Oh, what is it?! A stun gun? A mysterious key that can unlock anything? Oatmeal?" I raised a brow and gave Pinkie a 'are you crazy' look.

"Oatmeal? Why oatmeal?" I asked.

"Duh! It's because it taste so delicious!" Pinkie answered. I shook my head at her, yep, she's crazy alright.

"Whatever! So what's in the pack, Ren?" Rainbow asked as she focused on the ball still.

"Oh, you'll see..because here it is!" I showed them what was inside the backpack, but much to their confusion, they didn't seem too enthusiastic about it. It was a board.

"It's just a board, so what?" Rainbow asked shrugging her shoulders.

"It may look like a board, but..." I picked up the board and turn a small red button that was underneath the board. Once so, I let it go and it didn't fall down, it was still standing up, its just floating in the air, much to their shock.

"WHAT?!" Rainbow asked in shock, immediately dropping her ball.

"Wowie zowie, how do you do that Ren? Did you use magic?!" Pinkie asked in excitement.

"No Pinkie, its a hoverboard. A board similar to a skateboard, but using a magnetic means of levitation." I said happily liking it already. Yep that's right, once I found it, I test it out last night and became extrememly happy to get this. Whoever gave this to me, I'll let you slide, you may somehow kidnapped me and brought me to that sleeping chamber inside a spaceship and somehow transported me to another world, but wow, you just gave me the most best gift in the world.

Anyway, I know how to use a hoverboard after playing Sonic Riders a long time ago. It was one of my favorite Sonic games and since then, it was a real fun and experience game for me. I wonder if its still back at the spaceship with the others. Anyway, Rainbow and Pinkie became extremely excited to see it.

"That...is...AWESOME!" Rainbow exclaimed before getting close to my face. "You gotta ride on it now, think about the many races I could have with you, my speed against yours!" I gave off a smirk at her, thinking about that possibility.

"Okay, challenge accepted." I said until I notice that she stopped bouncing her ball. "Hey Dash, weren't you suppose to break some record of yours?" I reminded her, which caused her to widen her eyes in shock.

"Dang it! Now I have to start over!" Rainbow exclaimed as we laugh nervously at her disappointment, guess I may have distract her from that. Anyway, I guess I should show this to Twilight and the others, and they'll be surprised as well. I grabbed my board and put it back in my bwas about to get on my board until I heard a voice.

"T-There's smoke!" Huh? I turned around to see Fluttershy alerting everypony but nobody was listening.

"Hey, isn't that Fluttershy over there?" I asked noticing her.

"Yeah, wonder what's she doing here?" Rainbow asked in confusion. Suddenly, the skies turn dark as we looked up to see a lot of smoke blocking the sky, completely. What the heck is going on?

"ATTENTION, EVERYPONY!" Soon, we all heard a loud voice calling out as we turned to see Twilight and Spike, alerting everypony and listening to what she says. "Listen up! Smoke is spreading all over Equestria!" Twilight yelled.

All the ponies began to exclaim and panic to hear this.

"But don't worry..." Twilight continued. "I've just received a letter from Princess Celestia informing me that its not coming from a fire." Everypony, including Fluttershy, let out a sigh of relief until Twilight said "Its coming from a dragon!" Everypony let out a gasp and began to panic again. Well, so much for trying to calm the crowd down.

"A dragon?!" Pinkie and Dash exclaimed in shock.

"Well this day turn fast..." I muttered as I blink in surprise, and just when I was about to surprise Twilight and the other mares about this hoverboard I've found. Oh well, I'll show it to them back at the library. However, I noticed Fluttershy feeling scared, wonder what's up with her?





Not too long later, me and my equestrian friends were gathered at the Golden Oaks Library, where we were discussing our plan of action.

"What in the name of things cinnamon-swirled is a full grown dragon doing here in Equestria?" Applejack asked.

"Sleeping." Twilight said, causing us to look at her like she was crazy.

"Huh?" We all asked.

"According to Princess Celestia, he's taking a nap. His snoring is what's causing all this smoke." Twilight explained as she was finishing packing books into a saddle. I'm guessing she'll need them for the problem we're dealing with.

"He should really see a doctor!" Pinkie Pie said. "That doesn't sound healthy at all!"

"Um, Pinkie, dragons are supposed to breath fire and smoke." I said, which made her realized her error.

"Oh, okay!" Pinkie said happily.

"Well..." Rarity spoke up. "At least he's not snoring fire! What are WE meant to do about it?"

"I'll tell you what we're meant to do!" Rainbow Dash announced, flying mid-air. "Give him the boot. Take that!" She kicked a small statue Twilight had, but luckily, Twilight used her magic to keep it from falling. "And that!" Rainbow flew towards the statue again, but Twilight moved it away, causing Dash to miss and crash into a pile of books.

"Um...I don't think that would be easy Dash." I said which made her come out of the fallen books and glared at me.

"Oh really? And why's that?" She asked crossing her hooves.

"Well, judging how much smoke it poured out to cover the entire skies of Ponyville, or possibly Equestria, I say this dragon might be ginormous, more bigger than....Spike." I said which caused Spike glare at me.

Rainbow Dash let out a huff and whispered "W-whatever." Hey, I'm trying to raise a good point, don't go and blame me for trying to ruin the mood.

"Ren is right, Rainbow Dash. We need to encourage him to take a nap somewhere else." Thank you Twilight for backing me up. "Princess Celestia has given us this mission, and we must not fail. If we do, Equestria will be covered in smoke for the next 100 years!"

This caused me to widen my eyes in shock and Fluttershy to gasp in shock. You mean we'll be covered in that smoke for the next 100 years?! That's crazy! And another reason why need to stop this madness!

"Talk about getting your beauty sleep." Rarity added.

"Alright everypony, I need you to gather supplies quickly. We've got a long journey ahead of us. Let's meet back here in less than an hour." Twilight said as she placed the saddle around her back,

"Okay, girls, you heard her. The fate of Equestria is in our hooves. Do we have what it takes?" Rainbow Dash asked.

We all agreed cheerfully as Applejack, Pinkie, Rarity, and Dash headed out of the door, but then I noticed Fluttershy all alone, looking quite sad. Maybe I should talk to her.

"Hey Fluttershy.." I called out to her, which caused her to shriek in fear, but then realize it was me.

"O-oh, hey R-Ren." Fluttershy said as she waved slowly at me.

"You okay? You've been feeling less down once Twilight told us about the mission we're about to take." Fluttershy turned away from me and felt sad again.

"I-it's nothing, I'm f-fine." Fluttershy muttered sadly.

"Come on Fluttershy, I'm your friend, I'll understand." I said smiling softly towards her. Fluttershy looked at me for a while as she let out a sigh and started talking.

"Okay, it's just that...I'm afraid..of..." Fluttershy hesitate to speak the last word, as I raised a brow at her, what is she afraid of?

"I'm sorry, but I have to go!" Fluttershy said quickly as she zoomed out of the library, much to my bewilderment. Something is wrong with her and I just know it.

"What just happened with Fluttershy?" Twilight asked coming downstairs.

"I don't know, I guess maybe she's afraid of climbing up that mountain." I said shrugging my shoulders.

Twilight let out a sigh and said "Well even so, we need her to confront that dragon, and what's that board you have in your hands?" Twilight asked noticing the board in my hands, what? She just noticed it?

"Oh right, it was something I was gonna show you and the others earlier ago before that smoke blocked the sky, check it out!" I said pressing the red button and allowing it to hover in the air, much to Twilight's shock.

"D-did that board...using magnetism to lift itself in levitation?!" Twilight exclaimed in shock.

"Yeah...." I said feeling worried. She then turned to me slowly with an exciting grin.

"Okay, after the mission, you are gonna tell me about this board, where you found it, how it operates and other things about it!" Twilight exclaimed as she got close to my face, causing me to sweat nervously. Well, I wasn't expecting her to be that surprise.





Later

Not long after we finished packing our equipment, with Twilight handing me a spare pack full of equipment, including my hoverboard, as she told me to use it just in case of emergencies. Anyway, We came back to the Golden Oaks Library, fully equipped and ready.

"Alright everypony..." Twilight said as she gained our attention. "I'm mapping out the quickest route, but we've all gotta keep a good pace if we expect to make it up the mountain by nightfall." By nightfall? Well this journey will surely be a long hike and climb.

"M-m-mountain?" Fluttershy asked stuttering in fear.

"Yes, the dragon is in that cave at the very top." We looked at where Twilight was pointing at and much to my surprise, it was at the top, and I could see the smoke coming out of the cave, and I'm guessing that's where we'll find our dragon?

"Looks pretty cold up there." Applejack commented observing the mountaintop.

"You bet it is. The higher you go, the chillier it gets." Rainbow replied.

"Well then, it's a good thing I brought my scarf." Rarity said as she pulled it from her saddlebag, a scarf striped into two shades of pink, wow, she's good.

"Ooh, pretty." Pinkie complimented.

Rarity posed with it, causing me to grin at her. "Yeah, that'll keep you nice and cozy." I said.

I then noticed Fluttershy looking at the smoky mountain, and I could've sworn she let out a gulp. Is she that terrified? Fluttershy then walked over to Twilight, who was busy looking over a map.

"Um, Twilight? I realize you're busy but-"

"Uh-huh, well we could go this way." Twilight was so busy with that map that she didn't hear what Fluttershy was saying.

"But if I could just have a second..."

"Uh-huh. No, we want to avoid that." Twilight poked at the map, still not listening, I kinda feel bad for Fluttershy, having a soft voice so low that nobody can hear you.

"So, um, I was thinking that, um..." Fluttershy hesitate for a sec until she spoke again. "Maybe...I should just stay here in Ponyville."

"Uh-huh." Twilight muttered until she realized on what she'd just heard. "Wait!" She ran over to Fluttershy, who had just been in the process of leaving. "You have to come! Your way with wild animals will surely come in handy!" Twiligth said.

"B-but I don't think I-"

"Oh and don't worry about your little friends in the meadow. Spike's got it all covered while you're gone." Twilight said cutting Fluttershy off again. We looked to see Spike, accompanied by some of Fluttershy's animals.

"You can count on me!" Spike said confidently, but I kinda have my doubts.

"Are you sure you can handle that, Spike?" I asked raising a brow.

"Pfft! Of course Ren, how hard can it be?" Spike said as Angel kicked him in the head and every critter ran off. "Oooh! Hey! Hey! Wait!" Yep, thought so.

As Spike left to get the animals back, Fluttershy began to feel afraid again. "I-I'm not really sure he's quite up to the task. Maybe-" Unfortunately, Twilight wasn't listening as she walked away, ignoring her pleads. I let out a sigh and walked over to Fluttershy.

"Hey Fluttershy." I called out to her.

"Oh...hey Ren." Fluttershy waved slowly at me.

"Listen, I can understand that Twilight isn't listening right now, she kinda needs to work on that. Anyway, I understand if you're scared of climbing the mountain. But just remember, Me, Twilight, and the others believe in your skills as an animal caretaker, and I know you will do just great. Just keep believing in yourself and maybe you can conquer your fear." I said trying to encourage her. Fluttershy thought for a while until she let out a smile.

"O-okay, I'll try my best." Fluttershy said. Now that's more like it, but her courage was short-lived once she saw her shadow, causing her to jump into my arms.

"Um, Fluttershy...that was just your shadow." I said sweat-dropping.

"Oh...I-I knew t-that." Fluttershy said as she flew away. Okay, that was awkward, but I know she'll do fine.





Before long, we were making our way towards the mountain, and the closer we got, the louder the snores coming from atop became. Man, and I thought my dad was the loudest snorer back at home. The snores were so loud, it made the earth around us tremble like an earthquake.

"Whoa, and I thought Big Mac's snoring was a waker-upper!" Applejack said trying not to fall. After the trembling stopped, we continued our way, but I then noticed somepony behind me as I looked to see Fluttershy hiding behind me.

"I-it's so...high!" Fluttershy exclaimed fearfully.

"Well, it is a mountain. I'm going to fly up there and check it out!" Rainbow Dash said as she was about to take off, but luckily, I grab ahold of her tail.

"Wait, we need to stick together, think about what might happen if you went on alone, you might get crushed by rocks or something like that." I said sternly.

"Ren's right." Applejack agreed, and the others nodded in agreement as well. "Safety in numbers an all."

"Oh, alright." Rainbow pouted. Well sorry Dash, but it's best if we didn't split up, who knows how dangerous this mountain is, well besides the giant dragon.

After we were done with that conversation, we started to go back on climbing up the mountain. Rainbow was flapping aloft with the same bored pouty look due to us not allowing her to go up there. It's a good thing that she's loyal to her friends, not selfish as Trixie, well okay, maybe Dash is a little selfish but you get what I mean.

"I heard the only thing that sparkles more than a dragon's scales are the jewels they use to build their nests." Rarity said in awe. I became intrigued to hear that dragon loves to use jewelry.

"Wait, they make their nests out of jewels?" I asked.

"Well yes Ren." Twilight replied as she began her lecture on dragons. "Dragons have a love with diamonds and other jewelry, they use them for either making their homes, or eating them." They eat them as well?! I wonder if Spike eats jewels as well.

"That is exactly right!" Rarity said before saying "Ooh, if I play my cards right, I might convince him to part with a few." I looked her with a smirk because I know she would do anything to get those jewels.

"Oh! You mean like, 'Welcome to my cave, Rarity! Care for a diamond? Rargh'!" Pinkie said in a growly voice, which made all of us laughed at that little joke, well everyone except Twilight.

"Everypony focus! This is no laughing matter!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Oh relax Twilight, we're just trying to brighten up the mood, no need to kill it." I chuckled, which caused Twilight to glare at me and growled at what I said but she let out a sigh and softened her expression.

"Whatever, anyway, Fluttershy, since you're an expert on wild creatures. What do you think the dragon will be like?...Fluttershy?" We all looked back to see Fluttershy hiding behind a bush.

"Hey! What're you waiting for, an invitation?!" Rainbow asked already impatient on getting to the top.

"Ooh! I think I have one in my bag." Pinkie said as she open up her bag, and an explosion of confetti burst out once open, much to my surprise.

"Pinkie, that was a figure of speech." I said rolling my eyes.

"It's-It's so...steep." Fluttershy said shivering in fear.

"It is a cliff!" Rainbow said as she let out a sigh, already annoyed with Fluttershy's fears. "You could just, I dunno...fly up here already?"

"Come on, Fluttershy!" I called out to encourage her. "We're waiting for ya!" After I called her out, Fluttershy stepped out.

"O-okay..." She flapped her wings, rising several feet into the air, when a loud snore made her squeal. Her heart all but gave out as she instinctively closed up her wings and fell back into the bush. Oh well, at least she was almost brave enough to come back to us.

"Urgh!" Rainbow growl in anger.

"We don't have time for this!" Twilight said already getting tired of this, but then, Applejack grabbed the map from her bag and observed it on a nearby rock. "W-what are you doing?" Twilight asked.

"I'll need this if I'm going to take her around the mountain another way." Applejack replied, which caused Rainbow Dash to groan.

"Around the mountain? That's going to take us forever!" Rainbow exclaimed. Suddenly, the dragon started snoring again, causing Fluttershy to fall to the floor, paralyzed in fear. Jeez, this mare really is scared. I let out a sigh and decided to help her out.

"Don't worry guys, I'll talk to her." I said walking over to Fluttershy. "Fluttershy, are you alright?" I asked but I know she wasn't feeling okay.

"O-oh, hello Ren, y-yes I-I'm f-f-fine." Fluttershy stuttered. I shook my head and look at her with a serious expression.

"Fluttershy, I can understand if you're scared, but you have to come with us. With your ability to talk to animals, you're quite useful in the group, I mean, do you want Equestria to be covered in smoke for hundreds of years?" I asked.

Fluttershy thought for a while until she shook her head and said "N-no, I don't want that to happen."

"Then please, won't you come with us? You can walk next to me, that'll be alright?" I asked. Fluttershy thought for a while until she let out a nod.

"Y-yes, that would be okay." Fluttershy said. I smiled softly at her until Rainbow Dash interrupted the moment.

"COME ON! WE DON"T HAVE ALL DAY!" I let out a sigh and got back up, and help Fluttershy get back as well. We then walked back and met up with the others.

After that was done, we all began walking further into the mountain while I stayed by Fluttershy. We came to a point where we would have to jump across to another part of the mountain. The others jumped across, leaving me and Fluttershy to be the last ones.

"Don't worry Fluttershy, it's just a small jump." I said as I began to run and jumped across to the other end, but I thought I wouldn't make it, but luckily, I was able to grab the ledge, pulling myself up. I turned back to Fluttershy and shouted "See? You can do it!"

"B-b-but it's...so wide..." Fluttershy trembled, holding a rock. I let out a sigh and a sad look, this mare must've been traumatized if she's this scared.

"Come on, Fluttershy, we should be much farther along by now." Twilight said as she was trying to reason with her, but Fluttershy refused to listen.

"You could just leap on over." Applejack encouraged. Wait, can't she just fly over? Nah, that probably won't work.

Fluttershy looked at how wide it was as she began to feel afraid again. "I-"

Suddenly, the dragon started snoring again, causing Fluttershy back off and tremble more. "I don't know." Fluttershy said, which caused me to face-palm at this, even Twilight and Applejack shook their heads at this.

"There's nothing to be afraid of!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "It's just a hop, skip and a jump. See?" Pinkie Pie jumped across to where Fluttershy was and began singing. "It's not very far. Just move your little rump. You can make it if you try with a hop, skip and jump!" Okay, how in the world is she doing that? I need to remind myself to ask them about her.

"We don't have time for this!" Twilight said getting impatient.

"A hop, skip and jump. Just move your little rump. A hop, skip and jump. A hop, skip and jump A hop, skip and jump. A hop skip and jump, A hop skip and jump!"

As Pinkie Pie continued singing, I realized that she was trying to encourage Fluttershy to jump by continuously jumping over many times. Huh, that's...actually pretty nice of Pinkie to do.

"O-okay. Here I go. A hop." Fluttershy said as she started to hop..

Applejack, Twilight, and Rarity encouraged her to keep going and so did I.

"That's it."

"You've got it."

"Almost there."

"You got this Fluttershy!"

"A skip." Fluttershy skipped, beginning to come to us.

"Just don't look down." Twilight added. I widen my eyes in shock and turned to her.

"Twilight! Don't say that to her!" I exclaimed, much to her confusion.

"What? Why?" Twilight asked.

"Because if you do, that will happen!" I pointed at where Fluttershy was at, who obviously looked down and didn't pay attention, causing her to nearly fall, but luckily, her front legs caught the other end of the jump.

"Ugh." Rainbow Dash groaned. Well don't blame her, she looked down when she was told not to look down.

I walked over to Fluttershy and grabbed her front hooves, pulling her across.

"I guess I forgot to jump." Fluttershy said, releasing a smile. Yeah, sure you did.





After that, we were walking along a ledge. "Let's keep it down." Twilight whispered. "According to the map, we're in an avalanche zone. The slightest peep could set off a rockslide!"

I nodded and kept my mouth shut, but Fluttershy didn't get the message.

"An ava- ava-"

"Shh!" I shushed her. Everypony tiptoed along, not saying a word. But as Rainbow passed under the branch of a tree, a leaf flittered down, and as luck would've had it, it alighted onto Fluttershy's back.

"AVALA-"

Applejack covered her mouth, as we were tense with anticipation. Please don't be an avalanche, please, don't be an avalanche, please don't be an avalanche!

...

...

...

Nothing...nothing happened. We all let out sigh of reliefs. You know, for a second there I thought-

BRRRRRR!

And I spoke too soon. We all looked up to see many rocks falling down towards us.

"AVALANCHE!" Fluttershy screamed as we all ran off for cover, dodging huge boulders, zig-zagging through a stony storm, narrowly avoiding a close-call here or there. As we continued to run, I saw a big rock that's about to hit Fluttershy. I instantly grabbed my Hacking Gun and aimed for the fallen rock.

"Break!" I screamed, destroying the rock that was about to hit Fluttershy. Once we got out of the avalanche, it started to calm down, oh boy, that was a close one.

"Is everypony okay?" Applejack asked.

"Yeah, I think so." I said stretching my back.

"Ugh!" Rarity said as she shook herself of the dust that she's covered with.

"Yay! Let's do it again!" Pinkie exclaimed as she bounced around happily.

"PINKIE!" We all growled with a warning rise our tones. There is definitely something wrong with this mare if she thinks that was fun!

"Uh, we might have a problem." Applejack brought up as we saw a great pile of dirt and rocks covering the path.

"I'm sorry." Fluttershy said whimpering in sadness.

"It's alright sugarcube, we'll just have to climb it over." Applejack said comforting Fluttershy.

"Or maybe Ren can blow it away?" Rainbow suggested, but I had my doubts.

"That can't be simple Rainbow Dash, my Hacking Gun might caused another avalanche, so its best if we just climb over it, like Applejack said." I said, which the others nodded in agreement.

Rainbow fumed in anger as she cross her hooves and said "Whatever." Sorry, but I don't want to go through that again, and neither the others.

We all started climbing over the rocky pile as we continued to trek on the mountain. Going up, I noticed Rainbow was giving Fluttershy the stink-eye as she was brought up the rear. But as they made their way down the other side, Fluttershy was trying to be caregul on her way down, when she accidentally slipped. She crashed into me and Rarity, and we slid all the way down.

"OW!" I said as I got up and stretched my back again. Jesus, that hurts.

"Oh, my apologies." Rarity said as Rainbow helped us.

"Not your fault." Rainbow said as she glared at Fluttershy, which caused me to glare at her.

"Hey, it's not her fault that she screamed, she's just nervous about all this." I said sternly to Rainbow.

"Whatever, I don't understand why we brought her here in the first place if she's afraid of climbing this mountain." Rainbow said as she flew off to catch up with the others. I saw how sad Fluttershy was as I walked over to her and gave her a hug.

"It's okay, just don't listen to Rainbow Dash, she's just..."

"I know.." Fluttershy responded sadly, cutting me off. "I wish I could be brave like her..."

"I know you can Fluttershy." I assured with a smile on my face. "My dad always tells me that being brave doesn't mean being fearless. It means facing the challenge even if you're afraid but you don't let your fears stop you." I said.

"R-really?" Fluttershy said, amazed by the advice I told her. "But I always thought..."

"Everypony has something to be scare of, Fluttershy." I continued on with my explanation. "That's just the way we are. I mean, sometimes I'm afraid of horror movies, but I just know you can conquer your fears, if you just believe in yourself." I said confidently.

Fluttershy thought for a moment until she let out a soft smile. "Okay, I-I'll try my best, Ren." Fluttershy said happily.

"Guys, come on, we're here!" Twilight called for us. We ran towards Twilight and the others, where we were standing in front of a massive case, and the smoke was trailing out from the top ominously. Twilight looked over to Rainbow Dash.

"Rainbow Dash, you have to use your wings to clear the smoke."

"I'm on it!" Rainbow said with a salute and zoomed skyward.

"Rarity and Pinkie Pie, you'll create a distraction for the dragon in case the situation goes south in there." Pinkie responded by waving a rubber chicken around, causing me, Twilight, and Rarity to look at her in confusion. Where the heck did she even get that rubber chicken in the first place?

"Okay...Applejack, you're ready with the apples in case he decides to attack?"

Applejack kicked a few apples to a nearby tree to show her accuracy.

"Ren, in case anything doesn't work, you have to use your Hacking Gun, got it?" Twilight asked sternly.

"You got it, Twi!" I said holding up my Hacking Gun.

"Good! Now, it shouldn't come to that, because Fluttershy will do what she needs to do to wake him up, and between the two of us, we should be able to get him to understand why he needs to go. Is everypony ready?

We all nodded, much to Twilight's joy. "Okay then, we're going in!" Twilight said as she walked inside the cave alone. After a few seconds, she came back out, looking for Fluttershy.

We then noticed Fluttershy's face was buried into the ground.

"Come on!" Twilight grunted, grabbing Fluttershy's wings with her teeth and pulling her head out. "We have to do this!" Twilight released another grunt, pushing Fluttershy from behind. "Now!" Rainbow Dash began to help Twilight push. "Every - second longer that dragon—Rarity joined – sleeps is another – Applejack and I helped - acre of Equestria that's covered in—Twilight grunted –smoke." Pinkie Pie flew straight towards them. "Ooh!" Okay, this is just getting ridiculous.

"I-I-I can't go in the cave." Fluttershy admitted sadly.

We all kneeled over in frustration. "Oh great, now she's scared of caves?!"

"No..." I said, causing everypony to turned to me in confusion. "I don't think its the cave you guys, I think she's afraid of dragons." Twilight and the others became shock to hear this.

"R-ren is right, I'm scared of dragons." Fluttershy blurted out, as did a snore and plume of smoke from the cave, much to our chagrin. As it cleared, along with our throats from coughing, I noticed Fluttershy hiding behind me.

"But Fluttershy, you have a wonderful talent dealing with all kinds of animals!" Twilight reminded her.

"Yes, because they're not dragons." Fluttershy replied.

"Come on Flutters!" Rainbow said encouragingly. "What about the time you walked right up to a manticore? It didn't seem like such a big deal to you!"

"Yes, because he wasn't a dragon." Fluttershy said

"Spike's a dragon and you're not even scared of him." I reminded her.

"Yes, because he not a huge, gigantic, terrifying, enormous, teeth-gnashing, sharp-scale having, horn-wearing, smoke-snoring, could eat a pony in one bite, totally all grown-up dragon!"

The dragon's snore following her reason helped to emphasize Fluttershy's point, as she shivered fearfully. Now I understand why she was afraid, it wasn't the mountain, it was that dragon that got her afraid.

"But if you're so afraid of dragons, why didn't you say something before we came all the way up here?" Twilight asked.

"Because she was afraid too!" I exclaimed, causing Twilight and the others to turn to me. "She was trying to tell you guys but instead you all just ignore her, I was the only one who knew what was the problem!" I explained feeling a little stress. Twilight felt a little bad by that statement.

I then turned to Fluttershy and said "Fluttershy, I can understand if you're scared, I mean we're all scared of that dragon too!"

"I'm not!" Rainbow exclaimed, causing me to give her a flat look. "Anyway, we're all scared of that dragon too!"

"AH-HEM!"

I pointed towards my Hacking Gun and aimed it at Rainbow Dash, causing her to hide behind the group. Yeah, glad we're on the same page.

"What Ren is trying to say." Applejack stepped up, agreeing with me. "We're all scared of that dragon too, but we got a job to do. So get in there with Twilight, and show them what your made of!"

We all gave her encouraging looks to her, because we care about her and we think of her as family, but it seem Fluttershy didn't get the message.

"I-I-.....I'm sorry, I just can't...." Fluttershy stuttered as she let out a tear and began to leave.

"Fluttershy..." I muttered sadly as I watched my friend sulk away. I'm sorry, if I known you were actually scared of the dragon instead of the mountain, then we could have help you. I just hope she would conquer her fear in order to get that dragon out of the cave.





After Fluttershy was gone, we all went inside the cave, where we were consulting a plan to get the dragon out of the cave.

"Don't thing badly of Fluttershy, Twilight. Everypony has something they just aren't ready to face!" I said patting Twilight on the back.

"I know, but I thought we could encourage her to do her part." Twilight replied, feeling guilty about Fluttershy. "But...I suppose I should've been more sensitive to her feelings earlier. Even so, we have a job to do. Between the two of us, I'm sure we can...convince the dragon to move...right?"

"I guess." I shrugged. Okay, we just have to get that dragon out of here and go somewhere else to sleep. Shouldn't be a problem, right?

Luckily, it wasn't dark because we could see the light reflecting off a vast trove of gold and silver, diamonds and pearls, rubies and sapphires. Dang, just how much of this stuff does that dragon have?! We then notice something napping atop,  it was a big, red, scary, smoke-snoring dragon. Finally seeing the beast up close, we felt quite nervous a little, okay, we felt a lot nervous. Oh well, let's see if this will work.

"Um, excuse me?" Twilight called nervously, the dragon only shifted on his back and scratching his belly. "Mister dragon?"

Finally, the big scary reptilian eyes opened, we were startled back from his intimidate. "Oh good, you're awake. My name is Twilight Sparkle, and this is my friend Ren-"

The dragon simply yawned, with a bad case of morning breath onto us. Oh god, has this dragon ever heard of personal hygiene? We were covering our noses until the bad breath was gone.

"Anyway, I'm Ren Loodan." I introduced myself waving the bad breath away. "We are residents here in Equestria, Ponyville to be exact."

"We've come here to ask you to find a different place to take your nap." Twilight explained. "For you see, as you snore you let out a constant plume of smoke."

The dragon huffed out more smoke at us, making us cough, but Twilight continued. "Equestria simple can't survive a hundred years in a dark haze, you understand don't you?"

The dragon growled as he stretched his arms and slumped down, again snorting smoke at them, and the message was as made loud and clear at us. We left the Dragon's den, coughing up some of the smoke.

"So much for persuading him!" Rainbow exclaimed. Tell me about it.

"Twilight..." I called her. "Between you and me, I prefer Spike over that dragon." I said coughing up some smoke.

"That, I agree." Twilight said coughing.

"Now what?" Applejack asked.

"Obviously." Rarity said as she stepped up and fluffed up her mane. "This situation calls for a little 'pony charm'. Allow me darlings." We watched her go in, waiting for her to see how she deals with the dragon.

I know she can do it, I believe in Rarity after all. Suddenly, it wasn't too long before Rarity ran out, shrieking in fear.

"I was this close to getting that diamond!" Rarity exclaimed angrily.

"You mean, getting rid of the dragon?" Twilight reminder her angrily.

"Oh! Yeah..." Rarity said trying to cover her true purpose to enter the cave. I face-palmed at her while Twilight narrowed her eyes at the fashionista pony. Well, so much of that. Suddenly, we heard a toot of a party favor as we turned around to see Pinkie covered in...what the actually heck?! Pinkie was wearing some weird outfit that almost makes her a clown.

"Darling, you look ridiculous!" Rarity exclaimed, shocked to see what Pinkie is wearing. Wait a minute, when did she have time to put on that outfit?

"Exactly!" Pinkie said as she waddled into the cave. "Sharing a laugh is a sure-fire way to get someone on your side!"

From inside we heard Pinkie shout out "Hi!" There was a loud crash, and she stumbled out, her suit all ruined and such. "Apparently, he diesn't like laughing, heh. Or sharing."

We all face-palmed at this.

"Alright, that's it!" Rainbow Dash yelled out angrily. "We tried persuasion, charm...whatever it is Pinkie tried – It’s time to stop wasting time, I’m going in!”

“Dash, NO!” I exclaimed but it was too late as Rainbow zoomed right up to the dragon, who raised his head at her sudden approach.

"Get...OUT!" She yelled, and I could've sworn I heard something crack in there. "Uh...sorry?" Oh boy, we're screwed.

Suddenly, Rainbow was sent hurtling at us, but luckily, I dodged it, but the others weren't as Rainbow crashed into our friends.

"What the heck?!" I exclaimed. Suddenly, the dragon came out, causing the mares to hug each other in fear. The dragon glared at us as he blew a powerful stream of smoke at us, sending us crashing against a boulder. I got up slowly and noticed the crackled boulder, revealing a hiding Fluttershy, much to her surprise.

"Ren, what's going on?!" Fluttershy asked.

"We were trying to persuade the dragon to leave, but he wouldn't so Rainbow Dash decided to take matters into her own hands-I mean hooves, and she might've kick the dragon on who knows where and before you know it, the dragon started to get angry and is trying to kill us!" I explained everything to her.

"Oh dear, what do we do?!" Fluttershy asked shivering in fear.

"Fluttershy, you have to talk to him!" I exclaimed, much to her surprise.

"W-what?! B-but I can't-"

"Fluttershy please, I know you can, and I believe in you!" I said gripping her shoulders and looked at her with a serious expression. "I know you can, remember what I said earlier ago? You can face your fears even when you're scared, I know you can do it, if you believe in yourself!"

Fluttershy thought for a while until suddenly, we turned to see the dragon roaring at our fallen friends. Okay, time to take out the trash!

I took off my backpack and brought out my board, and got on. Luckily, I put some goggles in there too as I put them on my forehead.

"Alright, stay here Fluttershy, I got this!" I said to her, which she nodded. I instantly flew off with the Megaphone Hacking Gun in my hands. "Hey!" I called out to the dragon, gaining his attention.

"Pick on someone your own size. Paralyze!" I said shooting 'Paralyze', but it had no affect on him. "W-what?" I asked myself. The dragon let out a roar but I stood up against it. Oh boy, I better make it out alive or else.

"Break!" I shot Break straight into the dragon's eyes, and boy, that'll hurt. This caused him to shoot out smoke from his nostrils, causing me to not see nor control the hoverboard, I was just flying aimlessly around the sky.

"Hey, I can't see anything!" I yelled as I looked around the sky, as it was covered in smoke. Suddenly, I was hit by something as I fell back down to the ground, dropping both my Hacking Gun and my board. I got up from the ground slowly as I felt my back was broken or something. Suddenly, I was grabbed by the dragon as it glared at me, causing me to go pale.

"Oh boy..." I muttered as the dragon roared at my face. Well, I've been scarred for life. He opened his mouth and was about to eat me, I tried to wiggle my way out of his grip, but it didn't work. As I was about to be eaten, a loud voice echo through the canyon.

"How dare you...HOW DARE YOU!"

I then saw Fluttershy zooming right up onto the dragon's snout, glaring right into his eye. "Listen here, mister! Just because you're big doesn't mean you get to be a bully! You may have huge teeth, and sharp scales, and snore smoke, and breathe fire. But you do not, I repeat, YOU DO NOT! HURT! OR! EAT! MY! FRIENDS! You got that?" Remind me to never get on Fluttershy's nerves.

I looked at her in shock to see how angry she was, and the others were as well. The dragon lowered his head submissively at her scolding.

"Well?!" Fluttershy asked angrily.

"But that rainbow one kicked me..." The dragon pointed out lamely, causing me to glare at Dash, who smiled sheepishly at the glares we were giving her. "...and that boy shot me in the eye." He pointed out to me. Hey, don't blame me, you tried to hurt us.

"And I'm very sorry about that." Fluttershy replied. "But you're bigger than they are, and you should know better!" Oh wow, go Fluttershy!

"You should also know better than to take a nap where your snoring can become a health hazard to other creatures." Fluttershy added.

"But I-"

"Don't you 'but I' me, mister!" Fluttershy scolded, her eyes narrowed disapprovingly. Jesus, this girl is good! "Now what do you have to say for yourself?"

The dragon didn't know what to say, he was so confused with guilt and shock of being scolded by a pony.

"I said...what do you have to say for yourself?!" Fluttershy demanded.

Finally, the dragon started to cry, and one of his tears hit me, getting me all wet. Man, and I just wash these clothes today.

"There, there, no need to cry." Fluttershy said soothingly, hugging him. "You're not a bad dragon, you just made a bad decision. Now go pack your things, you just need to find a different place to sleep."

The dragon wiped his tears and put me down as he went back inside his cave to pack up things. Fluttershy landed down as the girls cheered at us.

"You did it!" Twilight cheered.

"I knew you could do it!" I exclaimed happily, hugging her.

"Aw, it was nothing." Fluttershy said nervously, but as I let go of the hug, she was covered in dragon tears.

"Oh right...well I'm going to change once we get back." I muttered, causing everypony to laugh. I noticed my Hacking Gun and board on the ground as I walked over to pick them up, and not a scratch on them. Phew, that's good. Suddenly, we heard something flying through the air as we looked to see the dragon take flight, carrying a large satchel, presumably holding all his things, as he disappeared into the sky.

"Well girls, mission accomplished." Twilight said happily. We all cheered happily to see that we complete our finish, and not a moment too soon.

"Alright, let's head back to Ponyville!" Rainbow exclaimed as she flew back to town. We all rolled our eyes at her impatience as we walked down the road back to Ponyville. While walking, and me trying to get my clothes dry. Fluttershy walked next to me with a soft smile.

"Thank you so much for helping me conquer my fear Ren." Fluttershy said happily.

I shook my head and said "No Fluttershy, you did it yourself, all I did was just give you encouragement, and so did the others." I smiled softly at her.

"Well even so, I want to thank you still, though I'm surprise you understood how I felt." Fluttershy said.

"Well...back from where I'm from, my little sister was sometimes shy around others, but she and I were very close, she was sometimes energetic than....Pinkie Pie." I said shrugging my shoulders, which caused Fluttershy to giggled. "But sometimes, you remind of my little sister, and I kinda think of you as my little sister as well." I said, which made Fluttershy blushed.

"You...really think so?" Fluttershy asked, which I nodded happily. "Well, thank you Ren." Fluttershy said smiling softly at me. You know, besides fighting off that dragon, this adventure really was great.

"Hey Fluttershy, Ren, you guys coming or what?" Applejack called for us.

"We're coming!" I called back to her as I turned to Fluttershy and said "Come on, let's go!" I said as I turn on my board and soar through the air, heading back to Ponyville. Fluttershy and the others smiled happily to see me on my board, you know, this is actually pretty fun and I think I'm getting the hang of it.





Once we made it back home, we found all the pegasus of the Ponyville Weather Team clearing up the smoke. Upon arriving home, we saw Spike having trouble with Fluttershy's animals.

"Spike, take a letter." Twilight announced.

Spike sighed happily as he dropped Angel and said "With pleasure." He took a piece of paper from who knows where and began writing what Twilight was saying.

"Dear Princess Celestia, I am happy to report that the dragon has departed our fair country, and that it was my good friend, Fluttershy, who convinced him to go. This adventure has taught me to never lose faith in your friends. They can be an amazing source of strength, and can help you overcome even your greatest fears. Always your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle." Twilight said as Spike finished writing it down and blowing it away towards Princess Celestia.

I smirked at what Twilight said, you know, that was quite beautiful, I'll try to remember what she said, it might become useful sometime. Oh well, I guess it's time to practice some more on my hoverboard.

I got on it and started riding it through the Ponyville park, where I saw the others watching Rainbow Dash trying to her ball bouncing record thing or whatever. Hmm, time for some little payback.

"347, 348..." Rainbow Dash counted.

"ROAR!" I shouted, causing Dash to drop the ball and shout "Dragon!" as she fell to the floor and tried to duck cover.

We all laughed at her fear as Rainbow got up and glared at us. "Why're you laughing?! That awful dragon is back!" Rainbow exclaimed until she noticed me up behind her.

"Hey!" I said waving at her. Rainbow furrowed her eyes to realized it was me who roared at her.

"Ren! You scared m- I mean, you...broke my concentration!"

"Well serves you right for doubting Fluttershy back there." I said smirking at her.

"It's okay Rainbow Dash." Fluttershy said. "Not everypony can be as brave as me." Did I just sense a bit of boastfulness in that statement?

Rainbow gave her a look and blew a leaf up, and it landed on Fluttershy's back, making her startle and yelp, causing all of us to laugh at her as well. Oh well, she might have conquer her fear of dragons but she still has a long way to go, and so do I.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 8 - Look Before You Sleep
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I woke up early this time and did my usual morning routine. I left my Megaphone Hacking Gun back home to let it charge....again. As I walked out of the house ship and looked around, I saw many Pegasus ponies in the skies, moving dark clouds in front of the gleaming sun. I'm guessing there is going to be rain today... Every pony seemed to be heading to the park. I wonder what's going on... I walked over to the park to see many ponies picking up dead branches off the floor and trees. When I spotted Applejack, who was using her lasso to break a branch of the tree, I walked up and called out to her.

"Hey, Applejack. What's going on today?" I asked.

"Oh hey there, Ren." Applejack responded busy picking up the branches off the tree. "Every pony is picking up dead and loose branches so they don't hurt no pony."

"I see, but why's that?" I asked curiously.

"You see, the Pegasus ponies accidentally forgot to sprinkle some rain last week, so they're making it up by doing it today." Ah, I see now.

"Okay, so can I help out then?"

"Sure, you can pick up the branches that are on the ground, or if you find a way to get them off the tree without hurting yourself, you can do that instead."

"Alright." We turn around to see Rarity a few feet away from us. "Hmm. Hah! Perfect." Rarity announced. She had formed the leaves on the branch to art with her magic, causing me to sweat-dropped. Why am I not surprised that while she works, she makes something out of art?

Unfortunately, Applejack threw her lasso at the branch at took it down, frankly. She spit the rope out of her mouth and glared at Rarity.

"Just take the broken limbs down, Rarity. Don't you all care about nothing other than prettifyin'?" Applejack asked.

"Some pony has to. You were making an absolute mess of the town square, Applejack." Rarity replied, looking around at all the branches on the floor.

"Yeah, well, the storm's gonna make an even bigger mess if we don't prune all these loose branches so they don't tumble down on anypony." Applejack said as she went back to work.

"I simply cannot imagine why the Pegasus ponies would schedule a dreadful downpour this evening and ruin what could have been a glorious sunny day."

Applejack sighed and started to explain. "Think more practical-like, will ya? They accidentally skipped a scheduled sprinkle last week, so we need a doozy of a downpour to make up for it, is all." Applejack kicked a tree, releasing leaves and more branches to fall to the ground.

I smiled nervously at them arguing each other. It makes sense since Applejack is a farm pony who loves to get dirty and Rarity is the type of girl who....well, who doesn't like to get dirty and such.

Suddenly, my thoughts were cut-off as I felt something grabbing the stick. I looked down to see a little puppy trying to grab the stick that I picked up.

"Oh hey little guy, what are you doing here?" I asked rubbing the puppy's head. It appears that he's a Siberian Husky, with a light red fur color on his back and his ears while his underbelly and muzzle were white and had a little black nose.

"Oh, sorry, I'm just a little lost around here." Huh? I blinked in confusion and looked around to see if anypony said something, but there was nopony around, well besides Applejack and Rarity of course. I turned to the puppy, who only looked at me innocently.

"W-who said that? Was it you?" I asked the little dog, but that was ridiculous, I mean, a talking dog? I mean come on, I've seen many cartoon shows and anime's that has many talking dogs, but there's no way that could be possible.

"Well yeah, how you doing?" The puppy spoke...it just said 'how you doing' to me.

"Whoa!" I shouted in surprise, but Applejack and Rarity were so busy arguing with each other, they didn't hear my shouting.

"Oops, sorry if I scared you, I'll be quiet if you want." The puppy said feeling bad for me.

"O-oh, no no no, I was just surprised to see a talking dog, though after learning about magic and such here in Equestria, I would guess it would make sense." I said rubbing my head in embarrassment.

"Oh, so you're not surprise about me talking right?" He asked. Huh? Something tells me that other ponies must've heard him speak but ran away in fear because of him talking, well I guess I can understand. I mean, seeing a talking dog is just...crazy, but awesome at the same time.

"What? No, of course not. I think its awesome." I said happily, much to his joy. After learning that logic here in the world of Equestria is out of balance, it makes sense that they have talking dogs here.

Suddenly, I then felt as though something dripped on my nose. I looked up and saw that it began raining. Well, didn't expect this.

"Oh no! My wonderfully styled mane shall be ruined!" Rarity cried out.

"You should of hurried up and finished the job already." Applejack argued.

"Oh! Ah! Oh! It's coming down too fast! Ah! Oh! Ah! Help me!" Rarity began running all over the place to find shelter.

Applejack searched for somewhere to keep from the rain. She spotted a table and told Rarity to go under there. "Uh, there. Hunker down to yer heart's content whilst I finish this."

Rarity began galloping over to the table while Applejack continued to bring down the branches. I put my hoodie on over my head and looked down to see the little puppy shivering, probably cold.

"Hey, need some help?" I offered.

"S-sure, I'm k-kinda getting cold here, besides, I just hate getting wet these days." He said as I picked him up and put him inside my shirt, just to keep him warm.

I turned back to see Applejack and Rarity having another argument with each other.

"You all wouldn't know useful if it came up and bit ya." Applejack continued to argue.

Rarity laughed. "That doesn't even make any sense."

"Does so."

"Does not."

"Does so."

"Does not."

"Does so."

"Does not."

"Um...Girls..." I called out to them.

"Does so infinity. Hah." Applejack said.

"Does not infinity plus one. Hah."

They both started at each other aggressively, oh man, I better stop this before this goes too far. "What say we go our separate ways before one of us says something she will regret?" Rarity offered.

"I reckon you all were gonna say something you'll regret first."

"On the contrary. I believe it shall most certainly be you who says something you will regret first."

"I'm not sayin' anythin'."

"Nor am I."

"Y'all just be on yer way, then." Applejack scooted her away with her hoof.

"After you!" Rarity pointed.

"GIRLS!" I finally shouted, but I was too late as thunder crackled in the sky, scaring both the ponies. The both hugged each other, ironically. I face-palmed as I look at the girls with a stern look. "Look, I understand that you're mad with each other, but right now, we need to get out of this storm." I said, reminding them of finding some shelter.

"Perhaps Ren is right, we should stick together for now and find some shelter." Rarity suggested.

"Uh-huh, perhaps we should. And fast." Applejack agreed.

I sighed as I continued to be drenched in the rain.

Applejack had ran over and ducked under the table.

"Nice and dry under here, sort of." Applejack said, noticing the mud squished under her hooves.

Rarity continued to look for a better shelter to be in. "Oh! Unacceptable."

"Applejack! Rarity! Ren!" Huh? We heard our names from a distant voice. We turned around to try to see who was calling us.

"Applejack! Rarity! Ren!" Our names were called again. We managed to see it was Twilight who was calling our names. She was inside her home with the door open so she could get our attention.

"Come inside, quick!" She invited.

We all ran towards the inside of her house. Rarity and I arrived inside, but Applejack stopped in front of the door.

"Thanks Twilight!" I thanked her as I got inside.

"Whoa, Nelly. Is inside a tree really the best place to be in a lightning storm?" Applejack asked worriedly.

"It is if you have a magical lightning rod protecting your home like I do." Twilight replied. "Come on in!"

"Hah! We are most grateful for your invitation." Rarity thanked Twilight.

"Thank you kindly for your hospitality." Applejack joined in as she walked inside. However, Rarity saw her muddy hooves and stopped her by placing her front leg in front of her.

"Uh, do be a polite houseguest and go wash up please, won't you?" Rarity asked, pointing to her muddy hooves.

Applejack grumbled. "If I gotta spend one more second with that fussbudget Rarity today, I can't be held responsible for what I'm gonna do." She walked out to wash her hooves, I let out a sigh and allowed them to continue with their argument. Five minutes later, Applejack came back in, with her hooves completely washed.

"Some storm, huh? The Pegasus ponies sure have outdone themselves this time. I hope you guys don't have any trouble getting home." Twilight said.

"I know right? One minute it was all sunny and the next it's starting to rain." I said trying to dry myself.

"Yeah, I know right!" A familiar voice spoke up as the talking puppy jumped out of my sweater and shook itself in order get himself dry. Unfortunately, Twilight, Applejack, and Rarity widened their eyes in shock upon hearing him spoke. "What?" He asked.

"D-did that little doggy said something?" Applejack asked nervously.

"No darling...I heard it too." Rarity said hiding behind Applejack.

"Ren...explain!" Twilight asked giving me a serious expression.

"To be honest with you, I don't know either. When I was helping Applejack on picking up the dead branches for the upcoming storm, I found this little guy." I said rubbing his head, much to his joy. "And I became surprised to find him talking, and also amazed at the same time." I finished with my explanation.

"I see." Twilight said putting her hoof on her chin.

"So, do you know anything about a talking dog?" I asked curiously.

"Hmmm...now that you mention it, yeah, I remember reading a section from a book I read back when I lived in Canterlot. Apparently, I learned that a few animals can ever be born with the rare ability to speak, and only a few could ever be found with that kind of talent." Wow, that''s amazing. So there is such a thing about talking animals here in Equestria, that's so awesome!

"Wow....she's smart." The little puppy said amazed with Twilight's intellect, much to her embarrassment.

"Oh...thank you...um...sorry, what is your name?" Twilight asked. The puppy ears dropped in sadness. Oh boy, please don't tell me that he's a stray and wasn't name.

"I'm sorry, but I was never named." He said sadly, much to my surprise, and it looks like I stand corrected.

"You never gotten name, why's that little fella?" Applejack asked feeling bad for him.

"You see, I was born but left my parents a few months ago, and I've been all alone ever since, besides, I can't remember where I used to live since I was just so small." He said. I felt bad for him and rubbed his ears, much to his joy.

"Ooh, poor darling, I feel so bad for you." Rarity said heartbroken upon hearing his tale.

"So wait, how did you get to Ponyville?" Twilight asked.

"Well, I was in some plain fields just outside of your town as I was sleeping near a tree when I smell something delicious. I followed the scent and found a cart full of apples and so I hopped inside and started eating some apples, but then the cart got pulled in by some big red pony wearing a brown collar around his neck and started pulling into your town." The pup explained. Wait a minute, a big red pony wearing a brown collar? That almost sounds like...

"Big Macintosh." I said realizing what the pup was describing.

"Huh, that explains why there wasn't as much apples as they were." Applejack said figuring out about the missing food, which made the pup laugh and smile sheepishly at her.

"I see, well then, I guess we'll figure on what to do with you." Twilight said. "In the meantime, we can help you pick out a name for you and allow you to stay inside, something tells me that going out there is gonna be dangerous."

"It may indeed be a problem." Rarity replied, gazing at the window.

And if on cue, lightning started to flash, causing the pup to jump into my arms and began wimpering in fear.

"Oh, it's okay, you'll be fine." I said giving him a hug. Hey, wait a minute, I think I came up with a perfect name. "Hey guys, I thought of a good name for him." I said, much to everyone's surprise.

"You do?" Applejack and Rarity asked in unison.

"You do?" The pup asked.

"You do Ren?" Twilight asked. I nodded my head to them, but jeez, must they repeat the same thing over and over again? "Okay then, what is it then?"

"I think I'll call him...Kodiak." I said petting his fur.

"Kodiak? Why Kodiak?" Applejack asked.

"Well you see, Kodiak is the name of a city back in Alaska, which is the coldest state or so I heard back from where I'm from. Besides, he's a Siberian Husky, and they live in the cold...I think." I said happily. "Besides, I'll call him Kodi for short."

"Kodiak....I kinda like it." The pup now name as Kodiak said nuzzling me.

"Yeah, me too little Kodi!" I said nuzzling him back. You know, I love having a pet, I used to have a pet guinea pig back then, but she past away when I turned thirteen, oh Rosy, I'll never forget the times we had.

"Well either way." Twilight spoke up. "I guess we'll be stuck here all night, the storm isn't suppose to stop until tomorrow." Oh well, that's a shame. Hey, wait a minute, I then realized that Spike wasn't around.

"Hey Twilight, where's Spike?" I asked curiously.

"Oh he's away in Canterlot on royal business. I'm home all alone tonight." Twilight explained, well that's a bummer. Suddenly, Twilight gasped.

"What's wrong Twilight?" I asked in concern.

"I know, you guys should totally sleep over! We'll have a slumber party! I've always wanted one of those!" Twilight exclaimed in joy.

"A slumber party?" I asked raising a brow.

"Yes!" Twilight said as she jumped for joy.

"Wow, she seems really excited." Kodi said blinking in surprise.

"Yeah.." I said as I took the book from her while she was daydreaming and read through it. "Slumber 101: All You've Ever Wanted to Know About Slumber Parties But Were Afraid to Ask." I read aloud. Jeez, this title is a mouthful and I never knew there's a book that describes to hold the best slumber party ever. I mean, look at this book, there's so many table contents about setting it up explained step by step. Seriously, it almost likes she has a book about every common thing on this world.

"I know right?!" Twilight asked beaming with excitement. "It's my very own personal copy. It's a fantastic reference guide. I've been waiting for a chance to use it, and today's the day! This is gonna be so great!"

Applejack and Rarity looked at the book too as we looked at each other in nervousness. Well, this is going to be awkward, even to her.

"....Well, Twilight darling...A slumber party sounds...fun and all, but...well...uh.." Rarity tried to find the words to let Twilight down easy, but was unable to say anything as she didn't want to break Twilight's heart.

"It's just that...slumber parties are mostly for fillies." Applejack said finishing Rarity's sentence. "Plus, Ren's here, so I don't think he would like it all that much."

"Nah, it's okay, I used to have slumber parties with my little sis, so it's good if I can handle girl stuff." I said happily.

"Yeah, and I want to be part of it too!" Kodi said wanting to partake in it as well.

"Well...if you two say so." Applejack shrugged.

"Yes, uh, great." Rarity said as she made a quick glare at Applejack. Oh right, they're still mad at each other because of their differences. Well this is going to be along night. "Well then, let's get started, shall we?" Rarity suggested.

They began to grab, whatever it was they used for face masks. I overheard Kodi's stomach growled, sounds like someone's a little hungry.

"You hungry, Kodi?" I asked.

"Yeah, I haven't eaten anything since I got here." Kodi said whimpering. I turned to Twilight and asked "Hey Twilight, do you know if you have anything Kodi can eat?"

"Well yeah, I have some leftovers from last night he can have." Twilight said as she pointed towards the kitchen.

"Okay, thanks. Come on Kodi, let's go!" I said as me and Kodi walked over to the kitchen. I opened up the fridge and took out some covered up plates full of lasagna to Kodi. As I put the plates on the floor, Kodi licked his lips and started to eat the food, much to our bewilderment.

"Wow, he must be that hungry if he can eat that fast." I said widening my eyes in surprise. After that, Kodi rubbed his belly, trying to shake off the pain after eating a couple of plates full of leftovers.

"Well...you full boy?" I asked bending down to his height.

"Y-yeah...I feel so good." Kodi said sighing happily.

"What in tarnation...." I overheard Applejack saying. "Now wait just a goll-darn minute. You make me wash off the mud on my hooves, but its okay for you to have mud all over your faces?" Oh boy, here comes another argument.

"Silly! This is called a mud mask. It's to refresh and reguvante your complexion." Rarity replied.

"We're giving each other makeovers! Tee-hee!" Twilight added. I heard excitement in her voice. "We have to do it, it says so in the book." No offense to her, but she needs to learn that not every answer can be found in a book. Hmm, maybe I should tell her that if she ever does something from a book again?

"Those girls really are enjoying this slumber party, eh?" Kodi asked getting up from the ground.

"Well, I wouldn't say 'enjoying' it Kodi. Twilight is the only one having fun, while the other two are just fighting with each other." I said shrugging my shoulders.

"Well either way, I still think this slumber party is actually pretty fun, even with this girly stuff." Kodi said as he happily wagged his tail. Me and Kodi walked over to the living room, where Applejack and Rarity were having another argument.

"Blahch. What in the word is this for?" Applejack asked about the cucumbers.

"Those are slices of cucumber Applejack." I answered her question.

"Yeah, I know Ren, but what are they for besides eating?" Oh...that. My bad.

Rarity let out a sigh of annoyance and replied "To reduce the puffiness around one's eyes, of course."

"Puffiness-Schmuffiness! That's good eating!" Applejack said as she took a bite of the cucumber, making some loud chewing noises.

"Tee-hee! Isn't this exciting? We'll do everything by the book, and that will make my slumber party officially fun." Twilight said oblivious to know Applejack's and Rarity's grudge.

"Did you hear that, Applejack? You certainly would not want to do anything that would ruin Twilight's very first slumber party, would you?" Rarity asked giving a smirk to Applejack.

"Of course not, nor you wouldn't either, I reckon." Applejack said as she glared at the white unicorn. Oh boy.

"So do we have an agreement?" Rarity asked.

"You betcha!" Applejack spit her hoof afterwards, much to Rarity's shock.

"Oh! Gross! You know, there's messy and there's just plain rude." Rarity exclaimed in anger and disgust.

"You know, there's fussy and there's just plain getting on my nerves."

"Fortunately, I can get along with anypony, no matter how difficult SHE may be."

"Oh yeah? Well, I'm the get-alongin'ist pony your ever gonna meet."

"That's not even a word."

"This is going to be the bestest slumber party ever! YAY!" Twilight exclaimed in joy. I gave her a blank expression at her not noticing Applejack and Rarity's argument. I understand that she's having fun but don't you think that maybe she might do something to stop this.

"Hey Ren darling, you said you've done a slumber party with your little sister, right?" Rarity asked.

"Um...yeah why?" I asked curiously.

"Well, if so, that means you've done girl stuff, right?" Ah, I see where she's going with this.

"Yeah, I know how to paint girl's nails and comb their hair, here I'll show you." I said as I picked up a comb from the floor that was happily right next to Twilight and started to comb Rarity's hair

"There you go..just hold still and relax, this might take a bit." I said combing her hair gently.

"Oh...Ren darling, you are so amazing, unlike somepony I know." Rarity said as she made a quick glare at Applejack, who glared at her back. I let out a sigh and shook my head.

I noticed that Kodi was feeling confused upon what was happening between their argument. Well he is a pup, so he doesn't understand why Applejack and Rarity are fighting and arguing. Let's just hope they can make up later.

"Alright...done." I said as Rarity's mane was completely beautiful.

"Oh Ren, thank you so much. How should I ever repay you my friend?" Rarity asked feeling grateful about her mane being beautiful again.

"Oh, it's nothing, besides it's on the house." I said winking at her, causing her to giggle. You know, I think this slumber party will go without a hitch...if Applejack and Rarity don't start fighting each other again.





"And remember this, if you feel as though something is watching you or if your electronics starts to go static, then that means he'll find you and takes your soul away!" I exclaimed, causing Applejack, Rarity, Kodi, and Twilight to scream in agony.

You see, I just told the tale of Slenderman to them, yeah, that game always got me with its jumpscares and such, but its gonna take more than jumpscares to take me.

"Alright, ghost story check." Twilight said as she pulled over a blanket from her body and walked over to her book.

"Boy...that Slenderman guy is so scary, it's a good thing it was just a story and he's not real." Kodi said sighing in relief.

"Oh no Kodi...he's very much real." I said in a spooky voice, causing Kodi to whimper in fear. "Nah, I'm just messing with ya!" I said rubbing his head.

"Oh thank goodness." Kodi said letting out a sigh. You know, Kodi isn't half bad, he's actually a good dog. Hmm, I wonder...

"Alright everypony, let's go to the kitchen!" Twilight called for us. We headed for the kitchen, where Applejack began roasting marshmallows on a nearby fireplace while Rarity was going over the instructions on making a s'more, and I was busy giving Twilight an example on how to make a s'more with Rarity reading the instructions.

"Then you place one marshmallow on the top of the chocolate and be sure its centered, that's critical, and then carefully put another perfectly square graham cracker on the top. And done!" Rarity said finishing her explanation just as I finished making the s'more.

"Ta-da!" I said as I made a plate full of smores.

"Ooo!" Twilight said gazing at the treat.

"Oh, can I have one?" Kodi asked bringing up the puppy eyes. Ooh, who can resist something like that?

"Sure Kodi." I said as I gave him one. Luckily, I didn't put any chocolate in any of the s'mores because you know, chocolate is poisonous to dogs. You know, I always wonder why is chocolate so poisonous to dogs?

"And then you eat it!" Applejack said as she and Kodi took a bite of the s'mores. They munched on it loudly on the treats as Rarity stared at them, mostly Applejack, very annoyed. Finally, both Kodi and Applejack let out a belch.

"You could at least say excuse me." Rarity said letting out a sigh of annoyance.

"I was just about to, but you interrupted me." Applejack replied. "Pardon."

"S'mores, check." Twilight announced, writing in her book. Okay seriously, I understand this is her first sleepover but this is kinda ridiculous. "Now the next item of fun we have to do is Truth or Dare."

"Oh, I love that game, mostly the dares, but I love doing it!" I said happily.

"Well then, if so, then I dare Applejack to do something carefully and neatly for a change." Rarity said as she began her argument with Applejack once again. Oh come on!

"Oh yes? Well I dare Rarity to lighten up and stop obsessing over every last little detail for a change." Applejack argued back.

"I think the truth of the matter is that somepony could stand to pay a little more attention to details." Rarity said glaring at Applejack.

"And I think the truth is somepony out of quit with her fussing so the rest of us can get things done."

I grew more annoyed with each argument they made. Kodi became nervous upon seeing my annoyed expression while Twilight walked over to her book and flipped through the pages. "Um, I don't think this is how the game's supposed to work. You have to give an honest answer to any question or do whatever anypony dares you to do."

"I dare you to step outside and let your precious, tidy mane get ruined again!" Applejack began first, causing Rarity to gasp in shock.

"But..I can't, Ren fixed it up all up for me!" Rarity exclaimed.

"Well you have to. It's the rule." Twilight said backing Applejack up.

"HAH!" Applejack laughed.

"Hm! Fine then!" Rarity exclaimed as she slowly walked to the door and then outside, letting hersef get drenched in the rain. Applejack snickered as she came back in with her mane and tail shivering. Applejack began laughing but was cut short when Rarity walked straight towards her, with a washed up, ruined mane.

"Okay! I dare Applejack to play dress-up in a fru-fru, glittery, lacey outfit!" Rarity proclaimed, much to Applejack's shock. Applejack grumbled angrily as she walked away to put on her outfit. When she came back, she was wearing, what appeared to be, a princess outfit. Wait a minute, where did she get that anyway?

"Happy?" Applejack asked.

"Very." Rarity replied, giving off a smirk.

"Um, do I ever get a turn?" Twilight asked, trying not to interrupt.

"I dare you to enter the next rodeo when it comes to town." Applejack commenced.

"I dare you not to enter the next rodeo that comes to town." Rarity replied.

"I dare you to not comb your mane a hundred times before bed."

"And I dare you to comb yours just once."

As much I didn't want to get mad, I couldn't handle anymore... all this fighting... it was getting to me... I finally broke and shouted.

"I DARE YOU BOTH TO STOP ARGUING AND SHUT UP!" I immediately stormed out of the room, and heading upstairs. I went inside Twilight's room and tried to calm myself down. Why can't they just make up and just forgive each other?

"Ren?" I turned around to see Kodi walking into the room, feeling worried about me. "Are you okay? You were feeling angry and shouted at those two ponies."

"S-sorry about Kodiak, I was just angry at them arguing, I just hate people or ponies arguing with each other, it never solves anything." I said rubbing my head in embarrassment. "Whenever I see people argue or fight each other, it's just a sign of breaking friendship, and I don't want to my friendship with Rarity and Applejack to end with them hating each other." I admitted sadly. It's true, I don't want to be alone with no friends, no family or such, I just don't...want to be...alone forever...

Suddenly, I felt as though someone was hugging me as I looked down to see Kodiak was nuzzling me.

"It's okay Ren, I know how you feel." He said feeling depressed.

"You do?"

"Yeah, to be honest with you, I actually traveled some parts in Equestria not just to look for my parents, but maybe find an owner that can take care of me, but whenever a pony finds out my ability to talk, they either tried to scare me away or just run away from me." Kodi started to whimper sadly as he was on the verge of tears. I started to pet him, which made him cheer up a little.

"It's okay Kodiak, I know you had some bad experiences with them, but they were just surprise and frighten about a talking dog, no offense."

"None taken."

"Anyway, what I'm trying to say is that, you have me, Twilight, and the rest of our friends accept you for who you are, and I think your ability to talk is so awesome!" I exclaimed happily.

"Y-you really think so." Kodi said as his eyes sparkled in joy.

"Of course, I mean we are friends after all." I said happily. Kodi smiled happily as he jumped onto my face and started licking me. "Okay, okay, I think I get the message! Stop it! That tickles!" I exclaimed as I was laughing my pants off.

CRASH!

What the heck?! We heard some crashing sound, and it sounds like it was coming outside.

"What was that?!" Kodi asked feeling scared.

"I don't know..." I said as I looked out the window and saw a tree has just crashed into some nearby house. Oh no, this is bad, I need to do something.

"Kodiak! Stay here boy!" I said as I headed out the door.

"Wait, where are you going?!" Kodi asked fearfully, but I didn't answer him back as I headed outside, where I saw Twilight, Applejack, and Rarity trying to pull the tree out of the way.

"What happen?!" I asked. Twilight was surprised of me being here, but then answered my question.

"The tree fell down, crashing into somepony's house, so we're trying to get it out of the way!" Twilight replied.

"I tried to tell you it would come crashing down in here!" Rarity cried out.

"Well, you should've tried harder!" Applejack replied. "I'm mighty sorry Twilight, you too Ren!" Applejack apologized to us.

"It's okay you guys, I'm sorry I yelled at you two, but now's the time to get that tree out of the way!" I exclaimed. Suddenly, we saw Rarity placing the books back on Twilight's shelf while using one of them to cover her mane.

"What in tarnation are you doing there?!" Applejack asked angrily.

"Cleaning up this mess sompony made. Who was that again? Oh right, that's  YOU!" Rarity responded. I face-palmed as I smelled another argument coming up.

"We gotta do somethin'!" Applejack exclaimed. She tried kicking the tree, pulling the tree with a rope, jumping on the tree, and any other way to get rid of the tree. "Rarity, for pony's sake, stop sweating the small stuff and help me get rid of this thing!" Rarity only glanced back and then continued placing the books back. "I said hussle over here and help me!" Rarity didn't listen. "Look, I'm sorry, all right?"

"What was that?" Rarity asked.

"She said she was sorry already!" I exclaimed, much to Rarity's surprise.

Applejack then let out a sigh and continued on. "Ren's right, I'm sorry Rarity. I should've listened to you when you noticed where this here branch would end up. Your annoying attention to detail would have saved us from this whole mess. But right now, you need to stop being so dang fussy picking up all those little things and help me move the one big thing in here that actually matters! Please!"

Rarity finally looked over at the tree when Applejack said that. She looked like she wanted to help, but she was worried about something. "Uh. Uh, but I'll get all icky!" She exclaimed.

"Consarnit! What the... eh... you... I mean, yes, ickiness is often a side effect of hard work. But y'all need to get over it, on account I just can't fix this mess I made myself. I need your help!"

Rarity hesitated for a moment, and then thought. Finally she looked toward Applejack. "Oh. Let's do this."

"I'll help you too!" I said as me and Rarity walked over to Applejack and talked for a moment, sharing a plan. Rarity, Applejack, and I began to get to work. Rarity used her magic to make the tree into a bunch of small ornaments instead, and I started to push the big tree out of the way.. Applejack was about to help me by kicking the bottom of the tree out the window, but she noticed Rarity's look on her face and paused. She placed her feet down and turned around. She grabbed the stump instead and lightly threw it out the window, which I closed the window, and the chaos died down. Rarity looked at herself. She was covered in mud and leaves.

"U-ugh. Oh, I look awful." Rarity said.

Applejack thought for a moment and thought up of an idea. She grabbed a couple of the eye pieces used in spas and placed them on Rarity's eyes.

"Better?" Applejack asked.

"Hm, thanks." Rarity responded.

They both hugged. I drew out a long sigh as I saw those two reconcile themselves. Well I'm glad those two made up for once.

"I'm glad you two made up... all your arguing has been only trouble!" Twilight said sternly.

"Yeah, I understand that you two are different, but you're still friends, you guys shouldn't be fighting over minor differences. You guys should accept for who you are and each other." I said agreeing with Twilight.

"You're right..." Applejack replied sadly. She looked over to me. "I'm mighty sorry, Ren. I didn't mean to cause you no harm..I was too busy being dumb enough to argue..."

"I'm truly sorry too, Ren. I shouldn't have argued with Applejack." Rarity added. "We are friends after all...and we don't like to hurt one another. Can you ever forgive us?" Rarity asked politely.

They all looked at me with pleading eyes. Ah, what the heck? They already forgave each other already anyway.  "Yeah, I forgive you guys. I just don't like seeing ponies fight and argue each other, it's just wrong. But I'll forgive you guys." I said happily.

"Aww!" They all exclaimed as they gave me a group hug. Sure, I gotten a little dirty, but whatever.

"Ren! Ren!" We turned around to see Kodi running out of the door and jumping into my arms. "What happen?! Is everything okay?!" Kodiak asked in concern.

"It's okay Kodi, the problem was taken care of. I'm just glad that everypony is making up. Now let's get back to our slumber party!" I exclaimed happily, much to Kodiak's joy.

"Hey, I was about to say that!" Twilight whined, which caused us to laugh happily. As we headed inside, I smiled softly and gazed Kodi. You know, I kinda feel bad for him trying to look for a home. I wished there was something I could do. Unless...

"Hey Kodi." I called out to him.

"Yes Ren?" Kodi asked in confusion.

"I understand that you don't have a home, but I think you found someone who can give a nice place to sleep, and good place to call home." I said giving him some hints.

Eventually, Kodi realized what I was implying as he looked up at me with a surprised expression. "Are you saying that..."

"Yep, I'm going to take care of you, we'll be like roommates, and we'll become the bestest of friends." I said happily, causing Kodi to lick my face. "Ha ha ha! I knew you like it!" I exclaimed in joy.

"Wow, that's mighty nice of you to do that for little Kodiak, Ren." Applejack said smiling at me.

"Yes, but are you sure you know how to take care of a dog?" Rarity asked.

"Well maybe not, but I had a pet back from my world. so how hard can it be to raise a dog?" I asked with a smirk.

"Well I guess you're right, but just in case..." Twilight use her magic to levitate a book to me. I read the cover and it said 'How to Raise A Dog', huh, that's convenient. "You might need this." Twilight said smiling softly.

"Okay, I get it Twilight, I get it." I said putting little Kodiak down and putting the book on my arm.

"This is going to be great, we can play fetch! We can run around crazy and we can eat some delicious snacks!" Kodiak said  running around in joy, causing us to laugh.

"Okay, just calm down already." I said with a smile.

"He's right, we should probably head back to our slumber party, and besides Ren, do you think you can help by fixing somepony's mane?" Twilight pointed to Rarity, whose mane was ruined...again.

I let out a sigh and said "Okay, I'll help." I said smiling at them as we resumed our slumber party. You know, besides Applejack and Rarity's argument, tonight was the best night ever, and adopting Kodiak as my pet dog is amazing as well. I always wanted a dog, but let's just hope I know the challenges on raising one. I mean, it can't be that difficult right....right?

To Be Continued.
> Chapter 9 - Bridle Gossip
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Wake up Ren! Wake up Ren!" I instantly woke up and saw Kodiak jumping on my bed.

"W-what? What is it Kodi?" I asked tiredly.

"Come on, it's morning! It's time to get up!" Ah right, well I'm probably gonna get used to that. I got up from the bed and brushed my teeth, put on my clothes, and got ready to make breakfast. Hmm, since I don't have kibble, I'm probably gonna need to buy some at the Ponyville market.

Anyway, I made some pancakes and gave two to Kodiak. 

"How do you like them, Kodi?" I asked eating some of the pancakes.

"They taste so good!" Kodi said stuffing his face with the two pancakes I gave to him. Boy, for a dog, he sure likes stuffing his face with food. 

After we finished eating breakfast, I grabbed my Hacking Gun and put it behind me as me and Kodi decided to head to the Ponyville Marketplace so that I could buy some kibble for Kodi.

"Do you think your friends are gonna like me?" Kodi asked feeling unsure about this.

"Don't worry Kodi, just relax, my friends are very nice ponies, trust me on this one." I said smiling towards him. Kodi thought for a while until he started to smile softly.

"Okay, I'll trust you Ren....huh?" Kodi then became confused on the sudden appearance of the Ponyville Market, it was completely empty.

"What the heck? Where is everypony? It almost feels like a ghost town." I said looking around, seeing no merchants, no clerks, or anypony else around here.

"G-g-ghost?! There are ghosts here in Ponyville?!" Kodi exclaimed hiding behing my legs.

"Um...Kodi, that was just a metaphor." I said sweat-dropping. Kodi let out a sigh and started to relax. "Though, I wonder where everypony went?" I asked looking around the place. Kodi's nose started to move and began sniffing something out.

"Wait...I smell something..." Kodi said concentrating his sense of smell. "It's coming from...there!" Kodi pointed to the dessert looking building. We walked over there as I saw a sign on top of the building that says "Sugarcube Corner". Wait, this is where Pinkie Pie works, maybe she might tell me what's going on.

I opened the door and called out "Hello, is anypony he-" Suddenly, a pair of hooves grabbed my leg and dragged me. Yelping in surprise, I was flung onto the floor, trying to get my surroundings.

"Ren! Oh thank goodness you're alright!" Huh? I looked up to see Pinkie, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and everypony else from town looking at me with worried and concern.

"Girls? What's going on?" I asked, only to be shushed by Pinkie.

"SHHH! Be quiet before she hears you!" Pinkie said quietly. She? Who is Pinkie talking about?

"About who?" Kodi asked, nearly surprising everypony in the store, well except Applejack and Rarity since they already met yesterday. "What?....oh, right." Kodi said remembering that everypony is shock to hear a talking dog. 

Suddenly, Fluttershy let out a gasp and grabbed Kodi and snuggled him. "Oh my, he's so adorable! And he can talk, that's so amazing!" Fluttershy exclaimed quietly.

"Wow! I know right?" Pinkie exclaimed happily but in a quieter tone. 

"Um...thanks?" Kodi asked nervously.

"Ren, when did you ever have a talking dog?!" Rainbow asked loudly, only to be shushed by everypony in the shop.

I let out a sigh and explained to them about Kodi. "You see, I found him just a couple of days ago and discovered him talking. Apparently, Twilight told me that animals have the rare ability to talk, but only a few are ever found in Equestria. So after the slumber party we had at Twilight's home, I've decided to take care of him myself, and I was planning introducing him to you all, well...at least, you guys finally accepted him." I said rubbing my head in embarrassment.

"Well I think he's pretty awesome!" Rainbow said giving Kodi a good noogie.

"Aww, thanks." Kodi said happily.

"Wow....that's so amazing." A voice spoke up. I turned around to see a small filly coming up. She had a red mane and her skin was yellow, but she doesn't have a cutie-mark on her flank. Strange, I thought that all ponies have cutie-marks, why doesn't this one have a cutie-mark?

"Um...hello there." I said waving to the filly. The filly looked at me curiously before making a smile.

"Wow, you're that 'hoo-man' my sister was talking about!" The filly said excitedly.

"Um, first of all, it's actually pronounced 'Human', and second, sister?" I asked curiously.

"Oh right!" Applejack said. "Ren, this here's my little sister, Apple Bloom." Applejack introduced her sister to me.

"Oh, nice to meet you Apple Bloom. My name is Ren Loodan." I said smiling towards her.

"And I'm Kodiak, but you can call me Kodi." Kodi introduced himself as he hopped off of Fluttershy's hooves.

Apple Bloom started snickering, probably about my last name. "Loodan?" Yep, thought so.

"It's Estonian for Hope, and its a family name!" I said, will there be anyone that will not laugh about my name?

"Ren! Be quiet, darling!" Rarity shushed me. Oh right, I never did figure out why is everypony here and hiding in fear?

"What's going on?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Yeah, and why are you all shushing me?" I asked curiously.

"Oh look, Twilight's coming!" Pinkie exclaimed as she zoomed up tot he front door of the bakery, ushering Twilight and Spike inside. Oh right, I haven't seen Spike for a couple days, wonder when he got back?

"And once again, I'm ignored." I said in a deadpanned expression.

"What's going on here?" Twilight asked.

"We're all hiding from Zecora." Apple Bloom expained. 

"Zecora?" Kodi asked, surprised Spike.

"Whoa whoa whoa, did that dog just say something?!" Spike exclaimed, only to get shushed by everypony again. Seriously, did I really have to explain this again. Oh well...

"Yes, he can talk Spike, he has a rare ability to talk and he's my pet dog now." I explained in a short version. "So could anypony explained to me whose Zecora is?"

"Well, we don't much about her, but she comes to Ponyville sometimes, and everypony runs and hides when she shows up." Apple Bloom explained. What? Runs and hides away from Zecora? Wonder why?

"There she is!" Pinkie exclaimed quietly. We all looked through the window, seeing a brown cloaked figure walking alone in the middle of town. The figure seemed quine, thought it was kinda hard to tell what the pony looked like under the cloak except for their hooves. 

She seemed to be stomping the ground, like she was trying to look for something. She then turned and looked over the window, looking at us with a glowing yellow eyes. 

Everyone except me, Kodi, Twilight, Spike, and Apple Bloom hide away from her gazes. Wow, they're really scared of her, aren't they?

"That's Zecora." Rainbow said ducking down to avoid her piercing gaze. "She's creepy, sinister, and completely mysterious."

"And spooooooooooky!" Pinkie added, causing Kodi to shiver in fear. "She does everything evilly!"

"R-really?!" Kodi asked hiding behind my legs in fear.

"Oh please.." Twilight said rolling her eyes. Yeah, I have to agree with her, I mean, she may look suspicious but how could she be evil if they don't know anything about her?

I then looked back outside and saw Zecora took off her cloak's hood, revealing her face. What the heck?! She's a zebra?! So wait, there have talking Zebras here as well? Okay, remind myself to ask Twilight to let me borrow a book on the history of Equestria.

I then took a closer look at Zecora, apparently she had a Mohawk, wore golden earings and several more gold rings around her neck. Is she maybe a witch? If so, please don't be like the witch from the Wizard of OZ movie.

"Oh, just look at her fashion sense! Stripes!" Rarity exclaimed.

"She's a zebra." I said giving her a deadpanned expression. "Zebras are born with stripes. I should know because there from my world and she doesn't look evil. I think she looks pretty cool." I said with a smile, which caused Rarity to faint. This mare...

"Does Zecora live anywhere in Ponyville?" Kodi asked still hiding behind my legs.

"Hay no!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"She lives in the Everfree Forest." Fluttershy said, shivering in fright. 

"In the Everfree Forest?" I asked, which everypony nodded. Wow, she must good if she can survive living in the Everfree Forest.

"Zecora is an evil enchantress, and does lot of evil stuff that every evil pony does!" Pinkie said. "I even hear that she eats hay!" 

"Pinkie, I eat hay! You eat hay!" Twilight rebutted back.

"Yeah, but the evil way!" Pinkie exclaimed, much to Twilight's annoyance. "Why, I even wrote a song about her being evil!"

"Oh boy." I said face-palming.

"Song?" Kodi asked curiously.


She's an evil enchantress  
She does evil dances  
And if you look deep in her eyes  
She'll put you in trances  
Then what will she do?  
She'll mix up an evil brew  
Then she'll gobble you up  
In a big tasty stew  
Soooo, watch out!


Pinkie posed on a table, panting heavily as she finished her song. Me and Twilight looked at each other in both concern and annoyance. I can't believe these guys are scared of someone they don't know about?

"So, how exactly do yo guys know she's evil?" I asked.

"Ren's right." Twilight agreed with me. "All of this just sounds like a bunch of rumors. Have you even talked with Zecora?"

"Just look at her!" Applejack said as they looked outside again. Zecora was stomping around, scuffing the dirt, hmm, maybe is she looking is something she lost? "Every time she comes around, she lurks around the markets and digs around for something."

"And how is that a bad thing?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah, no offense, but that's just racist you're all doing." I said, causing everyone to gasp in shock.

"Racist?! That is not true Rennie!...what's racist?" Pinkie asked, causing me to let out a sigh at her obliviousness.

"Racist means that you're discriminating one's kind." Twilight explained for me.

"Yeah exactly, Twilight!" I agreed with her. "I mean, you guys accepted me, Spike and now Kodiak, but you won't accept Zecora all because she's a Zebra and the way how she acts when she comes by to town? That's racist." I said shaking my head in disappointment. I know I trust them but this is just...wrong to not respect Zecora.

"Whatever, we know what we're saying Ren!" Rainbow exclaimed angrily. "Zecora is the strangest pony you'll ever see here in Equestria!" 

"You mean Zebra, right?" Kodi corrected her.

"Whatever..." Rainbow said crossing her arms in a huff. I let out a sigh and allowed the mares to continue bickering about the rumors of Zecora. Me and Kodiak backed away, sitting right next to Apple Bloom, who was also getting annoyed as Twilight. 

"You're annoyed that your sister thinks Zecora is evil, huh?" I asked curiously.

"Yeah, I mean, this isn't fair! I just know Zecora is as nice as everypony here in Ponyville!" Apple Bloom stated. Well, maybe not everypony but still, she raises a good point.

"Yeah, if only there was a way for us to prove them wrong." Kodi said. 

"Yeah...prove them wrong..." I said in thought. Wait a minute, that's it.

"Kodi, that's brilliant!" I said picking him up and hugging him, much to his surprise. "Hey Apple Bloom, wanna find out about Zecora?" I asked her.

"Okay, but won't we get in trouble?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Don't worry, you're with me. I promise I'll keep you safe." I said, much to Apple Bloom's joy.

I looked around and saw Twilight and the others were still bickering, giving us the opportunity to sneak out. Once we got outside Sugarcube Corner, we saw Zecora leaving town.

"Look, she's getting away!" Kodi whispered. 

"Don't worry, just keep following her and don't let her see any of us." I said seriously. Apple Bloom and Kodiak nodded their heads and began following Zecora.

We tailed her without her seeing us, but if she looked down in case somepony was following her, we either hid inside bushes or behind buildings. She began heading out of the town, walking in the direction of the Everfree Forest. It's been a while since we've in the Everfree Forest. Apple Bloom hesitate at first at not entering the Everfree forest, but them remember my promise to her.

"T-this place gives me the creep, why would Z-Zecora want to live in the Everfree Forest?" Kodi asked shivering in fear.

"I don't know, but like I said, I'll protect you all." I said, calming him down. We soon walked inside and made our way after the zebra without getting caught. I stayed on the path that Zecora walked down, since it would be a little easier to navigate without having to cut through the wild foliage. Suddenly, a scream was heard, and it was coming from Zecora. 

"D-did something happen to Zecora?!" Apple Bloom asked.

"I don't know, come on!" I said as we ran towards the scream and saw Zecora being attacked by some wolf made out of wolf. Okay, that's pretty new.

"Oh no, Zecora is being attacked by a Timberwolf!" Apple Bloom exclaimed.

"Timberwolf?" I asked raising a brow. Isn't that a name of a grey wolf? Now this world is making the name literal. "Oh well, alright...take to out the trash!" I said taking out my Megaphone Hacking Gun and aimed it for the Timberwolf.

"But wait a minute, a Timberwolf isn't garbage." Kodi said tilting his head in confusion. 

"I think that was a metaphor." Apple Bloom corrected him.

"Oh." Kodi said with a sheepish smile.

"Burn!" I shouted, shooting 'Burn' at the Timberwolf. Zecora noticed the attack and dodged it, but the Timberwolf didn't as it was burn into pieces.

"Ha! Piece of cake!" I said with a smirk. Oh well, at least I save Zecora's life. Zecore then turned to me with a surprise expression, oh right, it's because I'm me.

"Why did you follow me?" Zecora asked. "Do you not know the dangers of the Everfree?"

"....Uhh, is it just me, or did she just rhyme?" I asked putting the Hacking Gun away.

"I think so." Kodi said looking at Zecora, still afraid of her after hearing those rumors, which are NOT true.

"Ahh, a talking dog. I've never seen one in this dense fog." Zecora said as she walked around those blue flowers, hmm, probably poisonous. We followed her and went around the blue flowers. You know, I swear, if I get poisoned, Twilight and the others better buy me some oil treatment.

"Wow...you really do speak in rhyme." I said in surprise. "Guess it hard to do that...um..all the time!" I cracked a joke to her, which caused Zecora to chuckled.

"You are unlike the ponies back in town. All they do when I appear is glare and frown." Zecora said feeling sad.

"Well first, I'm human and my name is Ren Loodan. Second, they just don't understand more about you since you're living here in the Everfree Forest and they think you're an evil enchantress." I explained.

"Yeah, I don't think you're evil, I think you're pretty cool." Apple Bloom said, making Zecora feel more better.

"Y-yeah, so that's why Ren thought if we get to know you and get everypony to know you better, then they won't be afraid of you anymore." Kodi said happily wagging his tail.

"You know, that is a wild decision." Zecora said. "But though, you're plan is kinda mild."

"Yeah..." I rubbing my head, letting out a smile. "I just know my friends will accept you, I mean even Twilight doesn't believe any of this, so do I. I don't care what others will say, I still think of you as a friend other then a monster." 

Zecora felt happy that I believed in her.

"I thank you three for believing in me, and for a 'human', you're more determined than thee." Zecora said happily. I nodded my head happily until suddenly, I felt a sharp tug around my legs as I was pulled back, landing in the blue flowers. 

"Ren! Apple Bloom! Kodiak! Get away from her!" Oh no, not now! I looked up and saw the others running towards us through the field of flowers.

"You'll stay away from my friends and my sister, Zecora!" Applejack exclaimed standing in front of me, Kodi, and Apple Bloom.

"Beware! Beware, you pony folk!" Zecoran warned. "Those leaves of blue are not a joke!" Leaves of blue are not a joke? What does she mean by that? 

"Back off, Zecora!" Rainbow shouted, about ready to charge at the zebra as she began backing away, disappearing into the mist as she kept saying 'Beware'. 

"Ren, what the hay were you thinking bringing my sister and Kodiak into the Everfree Forest?!" Applejack shouted. "And bringing her to Zecora?!"

"Yeah!" Pinkie said, popping up from the blue flowers that Zecora warned us about. "She could have put a curse on you three, just like my song!" Pinkie was about to sing her song but I covered her mouth with my hand, why? Because I don't want to hear no more songs that involves telling Zecora that she's evil.

"Pinkie...don't." I said with a deadpanned expression before turning to the others with a confuse expression. "Girls listen, Zecora isn't bad! Apple Bloom, Kodi, and I were just talking to her, and you scared her off!"

"Yeah, Ren even saved her life from a Timberwolf!" Kodi exclaimed, shocking the others.

"I can't believe you would do something like that!" Rarity exclaimed.

"What are you talking about, Rarity! I had to something or else she could've been killed!" I exclaimed.

"Yeah, Ren's right, Zecora isn't a bad pony once you get to know her." Apple Bloom said which Applejack glared at her.

"I think Ren is right, you guys are acting paranoid because Zecora is different from you all." Thank you Twilight, at least I have somepony by my side who believes me. "Besides, there's no such thing as curses!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Well, that's interesting to hear coming from Miss Magic Pants herself." Rainbow responded crossing her hooves and rolling her eyes.

"My magic, REAL magic, comes from within. It's a skill you're born with. Curses are artificial, fake magic. It's conjured with potions and incantations; all smoke and mirrors meant to scare. But curses have no real power; they're just an old pony tale." Well, I don't know much about curses but I've seen them in cartoons and anime but still, she does raise a good point.

"Just you wait Twilight." Applejack replied, giving off an eerie mood. "You're gonna learn that some pony tales really are true."

"B-but, Zecora seems like a nice zebra, not a witch." Kodi said looking back on where Zecora was standing.

"Well she is!" Rainbow exclaimed, landing on the blue flowers and looking at him with a stern expression. "And you guys should be thanking us that we've saved your lives from getting cursed by that witch!" Rainbow said angrily, which caused Kodiak to whimper and his ears to droop down.

This caused me to glare at the rainbow Pegasus. "Rainbow, leave Kodi alone! Besides, why can't you treat her like a friend?! I mean at first, you guys were scared of me at first but then accepted me as your friend! Besides, you guys don't even know much about her!" I exclaimed angrily.

"W-whatever, you'll see that we're right!" Rainbow said glaring back at me.

"Well, she is right Ren, you don't know her yourself as well." Rarity agreed with Dash. This caused me to face-palm at them.

"...Fine, tomorrow. I'm gonna bring Zecora here, talk to her, and prove you all that she isn't a witch." I said crossing my arms. Everypony looked at each other in worry and concern about what I said. Please, after saving her life and that conversation we just had before you guys came, I know she's a caring person, and they just don't see her from the inside! "Now, let's get out of these flowers Zecora was warning us about. If I get a rash all over my body, all of you girls are buying the ointment for me." I said before we walked over the blue flower field. Kodiak ran around the flower field so in case he wouldn't get a rash, or poison, which ever comes first.

As soon as we left the Everfree Forest, we continued on with the rest of our duties. I was able to buy some kibble from the shop and also some pet advice from Fluttershy. When night fell, me and Kodi headed back home and took a shower because the pollen might've lingered on me when I was forcefully pulled back into the field. Seriously, I better be careful and always be on the lookout if anypony tries to grabs me or Kodi.

After drying myself off, and giving Kodi a bath (much against his will), I put on my PJ's, I got on my bed and went for a good night's sleep, with Kodi sleeping on me, not that I mind.

"Hey Ren..." Hmm? I open my eyes to see a sadden Kodiak.

"Yeah? What's wrong bud?" I asked in concern.

"Do you think that....your friends will accept Zecora for who they are?" Kodiak asked.

I smiled at him softly and scratched his ears, which he enjoyed. "Don't worry bud, I'm sure they'll accept her, just you wait." I said before letting out a yawn. "Anyway, good night Kodiak."

"Good night Ren." Soon enough, we went to sleep and awaited for tomorrow to see what might transpire. You know, I wonder if I'll be able to dream any of my lost memories, I wished it would come up.





Hmmm? Where am I? I was in a classroom. Why does it feel so...familiar? I feel like..I've seen this classroom before.

"Did you hear? Apparently, he was picked for the project." A kid said talking to his friends.

"Yeah, I hear that he's immune to it." A girl said looking at me. Soon, everyone started to glare at me and murmured something about me.

"Can you believe it? Some kid like him get's picked because he's special...pfft! Yeah right." Another boy said.

"They kept chattering over and over about how useless I was, how I was better than them, how I was picked for...the project..."

Please....stop....I don't want to hear them anymore. I don't want to hear their voices. Why...was I picked for it? All of this for the sake for Hope and humanity? This isn't hope, this is just...despair....




....

......

...........................Huh?

I began to wake up and saw Kodiak still asleep, peacefully. What was that dream? Was it part of my lost memories? Oh right, I'll forget about it for now, today's the day I prove my friends that Zecora is good. Now how am I gonna do that? I guess I'll figure this out until after breakfast. I got up from the bed, not waking up Kodi and headed to the bathroom to go and brush me teeth. I put my original clothes as per usual and headed for the bathroom.

"Ah...today's a beautiful day." I said as turn the lights on and was about to brush my teeth until I froze in shock as I gaze at the mirror and saw a human woman who has long orange hair and seems to be the same height as me. She was wearing the same blue sweater and black pants. Strange, that woman nearly looks....like.....me...

No...no no no no no no!

"AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!" I let out a scream, only it its a girly scream. I can't believe it! I've turned into a girl?! B-but how did this happen?!

"Ren?! What's wrong? I heard you-" I turned around instantly and saw Kodiak, widening his eyes in shock upon my appearance. I blushed madly and covered myself in fear. Soon later, he began to laugh, much to my embarrassment.

"Y-y-you're a-a-" Kodi could barely talk as he kept laughing at my new look, the Siberian Husky pup rolling around and annoying me.

"Yes. I'm a girl, Kodiak." I growled, almost on the verge of tears. "What the heck happened to me?! Why am I a girl?!" I exclaimed in annoyance.

Kodiak stopped laughing, trying to catch his breath and looked at me. "I-I don't know, do you think Zecora could've..." Kodi gulped in fear before saying "Cursed us?"

I face-palmed and looked at him with a serious expression. "No Kodi, Zecora would never do that, and if so, you would've been curse as well." I said, which made Kodi realized about my theory.

"Yeah, you're right. So, what's wrong then?" Kodiak asked. I began to think for a while and tried to remember everything yesterday. Hmm.....wait a minute.

"The blue flowers...that's what turned me into a girl!" I exclaimed, finding out the cause of this.

"Wait, how does flowers turn you into a girl?" Kodi asked.

"I don't know..but maybe Twilight knows." I said as I immediately grabbed my Hacking Gun and headed towards the Golden Oak Library. I put on my sweater's hoodie to make sure nobody can see me like this, or just laugh at me. Whichever comes first.

Me and Kodiak arrived to the Golden Oak Library, but before I could open the door, I heard something smacking into the walls and shelves. 

"What the heck was that?" Kodi asked widening his eyes in surprise. 

"I don't know, but who cares. Twilight, I need some-" As I opened the door, I paused in shock to see new appearances Twilight and the others. Pinkie Pie's tongue was bloated and coated with blue spots, keeping her from speaking normally and spitting profusely. Rarity's coat and mane grew out into long strands, kinda almost like she glued some party streamers onto herself. Rainbow Dash was flapping all over the place, apparently, her wings were upside down and on her stomach, crashing into everything. Applejack was...apparently small as she was on Apple Bloom's back. Fluttershy doesn't look change at all, but she's acting quiet...too quiet.

"Oh...my..."

"Celestia..." Kodiak said finishing my sentence. The other girls noticed us walk in, looking confuse because I covered my face with the hoodie.

"Ren darling, is that you?" Rarity asked. 

"Yes, it's me guys...but..um..." I couldn't find the right words to say it, so I decided to show up. I took off my hoodie, revealing my girly appearance, much to everypony's shock.

"R-R-Ren...you're a-a-" Apple Bloom couldn't finish her sentence, but suddenly, someone else did.

"Ren is a mare!" We all turned to Fluttershy, who apparently spoke in a manly voice.

"F-Fluttershy, did you just sound like...a guy?!" I exclaimed in shock. Fluttershy blushed slightly and gave out a slight nod, much to my annoyance. "Oh come on! Fluttershy voice changes but the rest of her doesn't?! I hate my life sometimes..." I said in a deadpanned expression.

"Ren?! Is that you?!" I looked to see Twilight and Spike coming downstairs, carrying several books with her. As soon as they came down, their jaws dropped upon my appearance. "Oh my....."

I let out a sigh and shook my head until I notice something different about Twilight. Apparently, her horn was coated in the same blue spots that were on Pinkie's tongue, but instead of the appendage being a solid appendage, it was flopping around limply, like jello or something. It almost makes me want to puke...oh god...

"Ugh! Twilight, what's up with your horn?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"Oh my...are Unicorn horns suppose to do that?" Kodiak asked with the same disgust look on my face.

"Ren, are you really a mare?!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Y-yes, but...I don't-" I couldn't help but stare at Twilight's horn as it kept flopping around whenever she moves. "WOULD YOU STOP MOVING THAT THING AROUND! IT'S SO WEIRD...AND DISGUSTING!" I exclaimed in both anger and disgust.

"I can't stop it, okay?!" Twilight exclaimed. Suddenly, Spike started laughing upon our appearances. 

"This is hilarious! Look at all of you! We got Hair-ity, Rainbow Crash, Spitty Pie, Apple-tini, Flutterguy, Renee, and...uh..." Spike looked over at Twilight, trying to think of a good nickname for her, but really? Renee? That's the best name he could've think of? "I got nothing...Twilight Sparkle. I mean seriously, I can't even work with that."

Twilight laughed sarcastically as she said "This is no joke, Spike. Now start looking for more books so I can find a cure!"

"Okay...so how did this happen to you all?" I asked.

"Bth ith iths uh crthhss!" Pinkie said, or more likely sprayed, spitting all over me as she appeared next to me.

"Eww! Pinkie, just say it, don't spray it!" I said wiping off the saliva off my face. "And what did you say?"

"What she's trying to say is.." Rainbow Dash began talking as she continued to crash into different places. "Zecora...cursed us!"

"Cursed?! Okay, that's ridiculous! Zecora didn't cursed us!" I exclaimed in anger, already annoyed that they're accusing Zecora for this mess.

"Oh really? Then how do you explain this?!" Rainbow exclaimed before crashing into the book shelves.

"Because...it was those blue flowers that we were in back at the Everfree Forest." I tried to explain to them, but they wouldn't listen.

"Ren, enough of your make-believe stories to make us think Zecora is innocent, which she's not by the way." Applejack said. Women these days...oh wait. "Besides, we all know what to do! We need to confront Zecora and force her to remove this hex!" Applejack added, which everyone agreed, except me, Twilight, Kodiak, and Spike.

"It's not a hex nor its a curse you guys!" Twilight exclaimed angrily.

"Yeah, if it was, wouldn't it affect Kodiak and Apple Bloom?" I pointed out.

"I don't care what you or Twilight say, Ren!" Rainbow replied. "It's time to pony up and confront Zecora. Come on, girls, are you with me?"

"Ah am-pft!" Pinkie spat.

"And I as well." Rarity added.

"Uh, I don't know. Seems awfully dangerous." Fluttershy said as Spike giggled at her new voice.

"How about you, Applejack?" Rainbow asked, but no response. "Applejack?" We looked around but she and Apple Bloom were nowhere to be found. 

"Pf-she's gone-pft!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"Aah! Or somepony stepped on her!" Rarity exclaimed as she checked her hooves, causing us to look over our feet as well.

"...Or sat on her?" Twilight suggested. We checked there too, but she wasn't there either.

"Rarity's hair!" Rainbow offered. Pinkie Pie began searching through Rarity's hair. 

"Oh! OH! Pinkie, what are you doing?!" Rarity exclaimed. "Ah, really. Aah! You ever hear of personal space?"

"Nopthe." Pinkie replied, shaking her head.

"Apple Bloom is gone too!" Twilight cried out. Oh what, she now notice this? 

"Yeah, but where-" I stopped as I saw that Kodiak was nowhere to be found as well. "Wait, where did Kodi go too?" I asked in shock.

"I bet they went after Zecora!" Rainbow responded, crashing into another book shelf. Okay, we seriously need to fix something about that.

"Then we need to go as well!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Okay, then let's..." I stopped in mid-sentence upon Twilight's floppy horn. "Ugh...we need to find something to cover that flopping horn of yours, Twilight!"

"Then stop looking at it!" She shouted.

"How can I not when it keeps moving like jello?! For god's sake, its so distracting and looks gross! I want to laugh at this, but I'm already too upset about turning into a girl and Kodiak being missing!" I panted as the others girls and Spike stared at me in shock. "...Oh gosh. I've never been this angry before, does this normally happen to a girl?" I asked. Oh man, we better fix this...and fast!





We headed our way towards the Everfree Forest to find Zecora, and possibly Kodi, Applejack, and Apple Bloom. Spike stayed behind as he quote and quote 'Gotta stay here and look for a cure...Twilight Flopple!' Yeah, that still needs work.

"Come on everypony, we've got to make it to Zecora's!" Twilight exclaimed.

Unfortunately, Rarity tripped over her locks, getting them dirty and twiggy. "Easier said than done." She muttered.

"Hey!" Rainbow yelled, trying her best to keep control of her flight. "Wait for me!" Oh crap, she's heading straight for me! Luckily, I duck down as she instead crash through a brush and into a tree. 

"Rainbow, are you okay?" I asked in concern. Suddenly, something pop out of her mouth. 

"Rainbow! Thank Celestia!" Applejack?! What's she doing here?! And where's Kodiak and Apple Bloom?!

"Applejack, there are you!" I exclaimed, gaining the others attention as Applejack got out of Rainbow's mouth and on top of her head. "Where's Apple Bloom and Kodi?!" 

"Those two varmints left me here after I tried to tell them to go back, and I overheard Kodi saying that he's going to prove to us that Zecora is not a witch!" Applejack explained. Kodi is doing this for us? Aww, that's so nice, but still, he's gonna be in trouble for leaving us without my permission.

"Well then, they're probably heading over to Zecora's, so...let's go!" Twilight said, which we nodded in agreement. I grabbed Applejack and put her on my shoulder as we continued our way to Zecora's place. While walking, we saw the same blue flowers from before, and also caught sight of where Zecora lived as we saw lights inside of a crooked tree, hollowed out and made into a home. Wow...that's pretty cool compare to my home, which is made from a spaceship for crying out loud.

"This must be where she lives." I whispered to them as we peeked in through the window.

"Ugh, I look horrible!" Rarity complained.

"Plis place plooks horrible." Pinkie commented while raising Rarity's bangs out of her face.

"Oh my, it does! Nice decorations...if you like being creepy." Rarity agreed, causing me to face-palm. We looked inside and saw many masks, containers, and candles. We also saw Zecora mixing something into the cauldron.

She poured in some herbs, stirring whatever she was making with a wooden spoon, humming some kind of song. Weird, it almost sounded like Pinkie's song about her, except slower and in some language none of us could understand.

"Sthe shtle muh stnng!" Pinkie sprayed, once again, getting her saliva all over my face.

"Oh for goodness sake." I muttered wiping my face off again. "And what did you say?"

"She shtole my shtong!" Pinkie repeated.

"Pinkie, we can't understand a word you say." Rainbow said, deadpanned.

Pinkie then looked over to Fluttershy with puppy-eyes begging. Fluttershy sighed as she began to sing Pinkie's song.


She's an evil enchantress
She does evil dances
And if you look deep in her eyes
She'll put you in trances
Then what will she do?
She'll mix up an evil brew
Then she'll gobble you up
In a big tasty stew
Soooo...watch out.


While Fluttershy was singing the song, Pinkie had done the dance, much to my surprise, that was a lot better than Pinkie singing. No offense to her singing. 

"..Well, as good as that was, Zecora's not some kind of enchantress, Pinkie." I said seriously, but its really hard to make a serious expression when you're a girl.

"Well you saw those terrible things, now you believe us Twilight?" Rarity asked. 

Twilight let out a sigh and said "Scary looking masks, confusing incantations, and a great big bubbling cauldron? Everything IS pointing to Zecora being...bad..."

"No Twilight!" I shouted, much to their surprise.

"Ren, what do you mean 'No'? You've seen everything inside of there!" Applejack argued. "She's a witch!"

"No she's not you guys!" I said. "I understand you guys think she's a witch, but I know she isn't, she's just your everyday normal...zebra." I said rubbing my head. "Besides, if you guys won't believe me, I will myself." I said as I walked over to the door, much to everypony's complaining.

"Yeah, Ren's right Twiligt! I can't believe you're actually giving into all these silly fillies." We turned around to see Spike, holding a book in his hands.

"Spike?! What're you doing here?" Twilight asked.

"Never mind that." Spike said as he approached us. "But we are gonna go in there and ask her if she knows what's going on with you all. Besides, Ren's right, Zecora's just different." Spike said, which caused me to grin at the girls, who return glares back at me. Oh well, at least I prove them wrong.

"Yeah Spike, at least I have someone else who believes me." I said happily blushing. "Alright, let's go." I said as me and Spike headed for the door, but the girls didn't follow. Seriously? What is up with them? Can't they just see that Zecora is just a normal zebra and not an evil enchantress.

I knocked on the door, revealing Zecora. She became surprised of my appearance as I waved to her, feeling embarrassed. "Hey..Zecora..." 

"...This is a shock for me to see." She said. "A creature crazy enough to enter the Everfree."

"Yeah. Crazy." I said. "by any chance, you don't happen to recognize me, do you, Zecora?" 

Zecora squinted at me, to get a better look, ipening them wide in surprise as she recognized my clothing and my eyes. "Oh my goodness. Is that you, Ren?" I nodded to her, which caused her to laugh at my sudden appearance. Seriously? At a time like this, you start to laugh at me?

"Yeah yeah, I get it Zecora, so me and my friends came to see if you can solve this problem." I said as I looked over at the girls, calling them over, as they slowly stepped into view of the zebra.

"Ah I see, how unfortunate for you pony fold. All seven of you have been affected by Poison Joke." Zecora explained.

"Poison Joke? The heck is that?" I asked, staring at her in confusion.

"Do not be dismay by the look of this blue flower. It may look innocent, but it has incredible power." Zecora explained. Wow, she's really good thinking fast for these rhymes. "It is kind of like poison oak, though instead of a rash, it pulls off a joke."

"Pulls off a joke?" I asked before making an angry expression. "Well this isn't a joke if I got turn into a girl, it feels so...weird." I said looking over the long hair I got.

"Okay, we get it, but where's Apple Bloom?!" Applejack asked hopping on top of my head. Oh that's right, Kodiak.

"Yeah, and where's my dog, Kodiak?!" I asked in worried.

"Do not fear, for herbs, I sent them to find for the remedy right here, so you mind." Zecora explained.

"Remedy?!" We all echoed in confusion.

"It sure is!" We turned around to see..

"Apple Bloom! Kodi!" Yep, it was them! In the flesh! They came in, each carrying a basket of herbs. 

"Is this all you needed, Zecora?" Kodi asked carrying the basket with his teeth.

"This right here and that too." Zecora said as she looked over her find. "All will complete this curing brew!"

"So...you can cure us?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah, Zecora knew you guys were standing over the Poison Joke, so we came over to her place and find the ingredients to cure you all." Apple Bloom explained.

"And besides, we wanted to prove you all that Zecora isn't a bad pony at all." Kodi said.

"Well I appreciate you doing that Kodiak." I said as I gave out a stern expression. "But that doesn't excuse you to leave without my permission, you have me worried sick!" 

"Oh...right, sorry about Ren." Kodiak said whimpering. Ahh...Oh what the heck, he's just a pup, he doesn't know better.

"Well...I guess I can forgive you, after all, you and Apple Bloom help out by finding the ingredients to cure us from the Poison Joke." I explained, which made Kodi smile in joy. I petted his head and said "Good boy." to him.

"And..." Spike spoke up. "I found out that the information about the Poison Joke came from this book, which Twilight ignored because she said she doesn't believe in curses." Spike said glaring at the unicorn, who only made a sheepish smile.

"Right..sorry..." Twilight said.

"Next time Twilight, never judge a book by its cover." I said smirking at her, which made her turn away and blushed lightly. 

"Indeed my human friend, more than I know. Lessons you all should hear and follow." Zecora said to the six mares, while I bent down wrapped my hand around the Zebra's neck.  "I can mix up the cure for you, I will but I am missing some herbs that are from Ponyville."

"That explains why she was digging around the ground in town." Apple Bloom said, finally realizing that. "Cause everypony's so afraid of her, they close their shops and hide from her."

"But wait a minute, what about the Cauldron?!" Rainbow demanded.

"And the chanting?" Applejack added.

"And the creepy decor?" Rarity snipped.

"Treasures of the land from where I am from." Zecora explained, pointing out a couple masks. "This one speaks 'hello' and the other 'welcome'. The words I chanted were from olden times, something you'd call a nursery rhyme."

"And the pot's for all these herbal ingredients." Kodiak pointed out the ones he and Apple Bloom collected.

"And the cure for Poison Joke is a natural remedy. You just gotta take a bubble bath in it." Apple Bloom added. Oh that's it? That's seems easy.

"Good, and after that, we'll make everypony realized that you aren't a witch! But let's hurry already, I don't want to be a girl anymore! It feels so...weird!" I exclaimed, noticing glares from all the mares. "What?" I asked.





As we headed back into tow, we were able to convince the hiding ponies that Zecora was not as evil as they thought she was. They managed to gather all of the ingredients the zebra needed, the cure not a potion to drink, but an herbal bath. They headed over to Ponyville's spa, where the hot tub was a perfect size to fit all of the pranked ponies to be healed of their hiliarious ailments. Applejack, however, needed a smaller tub since she was as small as a bug, otherwise she might tread water in the massive ocean that was the hot tub, at least for her size.

The spa employees, a pair of twins named Aloe and Lotus, earth pony mares where one had a pink coat and a blue mane while her sister had a blue coat and a pink mane, helped Zecora stir the ingredients in the warm water. With the remedy all set, we quickly filed in and dunked themselves completely under the water. When they resurfaced, the jokes placed on them were gone: Twilight's horn was no longer distractingly floppy, Rainbow's wings were back where they belonged, Rarity's hair was back to the way it was, Pinkie's tongue was no longer swollen, and Fluttershy obviously has her timid voice back. I heard the smaller tub meant for Applejack break as she grew back to her full size.

I took off my clothes, not wanting to get them soaked, but I covered my nipples because...you know, its humiliating. Anyway, I stepped into the tub with the rest of the girls. As awkward as it was to be bathing with several girl ponies, I didn't care as I dunked my entire body under the herbal bath. A few seconds later, I resurfaced, trying to catch my breath after dunking my entire body into the water.

"R-ren...you're back to normal!" Kodi said with a smile.

"I am?" I said as I checked over my body. Yep, my hair seems shorter, and I don't feel that skinny anymore. "Yep, I am back to normal." I said happily until I notice the mischievous grins on the mares. "...What?"

"You know Ren, if we ever have a girls day out, we can rub some Poison Joke on you so you can be part of the group." Twilight said, causing me to widened my eyes in shock. 

"Oh heck no! No no no no no! I've spent far too long as a girl! I'm staying as a boy! Forever!" God, if I got back home and my family saw me like that, I can imagined their reactions. Soon, all the mares laughed at my reaction while I grumbled in anger, sinking my head back down in the water. Oh well, at least Zecora isn't feared by the town anymore, provided no one else spreads any rumors about her again.

"Ahh, I see you have turn back to normal." We turned around to see Zecora coming inside. "Being a girl must've been awful." I rolled my eyes upon what Zecora was talking about.

"Yeah, I know, I know Zecora." I grumbled...wait. "Hey..Zecora."

"Hmm, yes? Is it something in distress?" Zecora asked.

"Well...you see, I was wondering if you notice that I'm not around here." I said, which Zecora nodded in agreement. "Well, I was wondering if you know anything like a way to send me back home?" I asked, feeling positive about this. Unfortunately, Zecora let out a sad smile.

"I am sorry, but I do not have something send you back afar." Zecora said, much to my disappointment.

"Don't worry Ren, I'm sure you'll find your way back home." Fluttershy said smiling softly at me.

"Yeah..I hope so..." I said sadly.

"However..." We turned back to Zecora with a assuring smile. "If I ever come across something that might back bring you back home, I'll be sure to tell you whom." Zecora said, which made smile softly at her.

"Thank Zecora." I said happily, much to Zecora's joy.

"Hey Ren..." I turned to Kodi, who ears were drooped down. "Are you planning on leaving Equestria?" Ah, I see.

"Well, I somehow woken up from that spaceship, so I need help on finding a way to get back home." I said with a soft smile, which made Kodi even sadder. "But hey, I'll be sure to bring you with me to meet my family." I said happily, much to Kodi's joy.

"R-really?" He asked, which I nodded. "Wow, thank you Ren!" Kodi said jumping into the tub, splashing water into all of us, while he licked my face.

"Ah! Kodi!" All the mares exclaimed. Well I didn't mind as Kodi continued to lick me, and I guess he doesn't mind that he's in the water. Huh, it just show that no matter what we face along the way, we'll be able to surpass it together. But you know, I do want to bring Kodi with me, but I can imagined my family's reaction to learn that he's a talking dog. Oh well, doesn't matter. What matters is that I'm already close with my dog, and...I feel like...I don't want to leave my friends behind, and that dream I had....why do I feel so sadden upon seeing that dream?

To Be Continued
> Chapter 10 - Swarm of The Century
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, a week past since we were able to convince the citizens of Ponyville that Zecora wasn't evil. Since then, everypony started to treat her like a per-I mean, pony. Since then, I was able to get a little something for Kodiak, and with help by Fluttershy. She helped me with buying some dog food, dog toys, and a bed for him, and also a dog tag. His dog tag was a blue collar with a dog shape pendent on it, that spells "KODIAK" on it. 

Yep, I feel like I'm going do great on taking care of little Kodiak, well...he is going to get bigger soon. I should probably prepare myself.

Anyway, Kodiak was busy chewing his squeaky toy and while I was reading a DBZ Manga. My favorite part of this is the fight between Goku and Frieza. Yeah, wreck him Super Saiyan Goku! WHOO! It would be better to watch it on TV, actually, why didn't I think of that before? I mean, I don't think ponies here in Equestria pay electric bills or something? Hmm, maybe I can find my DBZ complete series DVD somewhere in the closet.

Suddenly, I felt something lightly tapped on the window. Wonder who could that be? 

I put down my DBZ manga down on the couch and opened the window to find nobody here. Strange, I could've sworn somebody knocked my door? Suddenly, something small floated on my nose.

It was a small blue creature with big buggy eyes. Oooh, it's so cute, well a little less creepy due to its eyes but still cute. 

"Ooh, who are you little guy?" I asked picking it up gently off my nose. The little creature smiled softly at me, letting me go "Oooh". You know, he isn't that much a bad creature.

"Hey Ren, what's up?" I overheard Kodiak asked. 

"Oh nothing boy, just this little creature I found." I said closing the window and showing him the little creature, which caused Kodiak to look at it curiosuly.

"So...what is it?" He asked.

"Hmm, I don't know, maybe Fluttershy or Twilight should know." I suggest. Suddenly, the bug creature flew out of my hand and notice the dog biscuits on Kodi's bowl, and before any of us could react, the bug creature ate it all like a razor, much to our surprise.

"NOOO! My dog biscuits!" Kodiak exclaimed in shock. "I was saving those for lunch!" Kodiak said sadly.

"Don't worry Kodi, I'll get you more dog biscuits later." I said petting his head, which cheered him up a little. "In the meantime, I'll bring this 'thing' to Twilight and Fluttershy and hear what they have to say about it. But you know, for a small creature, it sure knows how to eat.





Me and Kodiak headed out of the home-ship and headed towards Ponyville. Once we made it, we saw a bunch of decorations held up and planted as we walked through. There was a couple of ponies scratching out a banner and rewriting. It appeared as if they were writing "Welcome, Princess Celestia!" but they kinda had trouble trying to fit in. Wait, Princess Celestia is coming here?! Huh, been a while since we last saw each other. 

Suddenly, I spotted Fluttershy entering Sugarcube Corner, and she seemed to be in a hurry.

"What got into Fluttershy suddenly?" Kodi asked.

"I have no idea." I said shrugging my shoulders as we followed after her. You know, Fluttershy never gets this excited in case she finds a new baby animal or something. As we entered the shop, I saw Fluttershy, alongside Twilight and Pinkie Pie. 

"Hey guys." I called out to them. 

"Oh hi Rennie! What can I get ya?!" Pinkie asked pulling out a giant cake, much to Kodi's joy. 

"Oh nothing, me and Kodiak just came by to tell you something we found, but we notice some decorations around town. What's going on?" I asked curiously.

"Oh that's right!" Twilight said. "You see, Princess Celestia is coming here to visit us tomorrow, so we're setting up the celebration." Twilight explained.

"Oh, well it's good to see Princess Celestia again." I said happily until I turned to Fluttershy. "Oh by the way, there's something I want to show you guys."

"Oh, that's good because you won't believe what I found at the edge of the Everfree Forest." Fluttershy said as she sweetly called out to something. "Come on out, little guy. It's okay." Suddenly, a thing popped out of her mane, wait a minute, t-that thing, it's the same thing that I found back at home, only this one is blue and the one I have is green.

However, two more followed. They were yellow and brown instead, which made Fluttershy gasped. "Three?" She asked.

"They're amazing! What are they?" Twilight asked, examining the creatures.

"I don't know, but I also don't know where these two came from," Fluttershy replied, confused of seeing two buggy creatures.

"Wait, you have one too?" I asked, much to everypony's confusion. I open my palm, releasing the bug eye creature, only this time, two more appeared as well. Wait a minute, what the heck? Where did these two come from?

"Whoa, where did those two come from?" Kodi asked.

"I...have no idea Kodiak." I said, surprised to see these two here.

"Wow, where did you find them Ren?" Fluttershy asked.

"I don't know, I was busy reading my Manga until I found this thing banging on my window. I decided to show it to you two in case maybe you know what it is." I explained examining the creatures.

"Well sorry to say, but I have never seen or heard about this creature." Fluttershy replied.

"Yeah, me too." Twilight said. Oh well, maybe Princess Celestia will know about them when she comes to Ponyville tomorrow. "Although, I'll happily take one off your hooves guys." Twilight suggested.

"Um...sure, why not?" I asked handing the three of them to her. "Ooh, I've never seen anything so...Adorable!" Twilight exclaimed as she hugged the creature. She then blushed when she realized she had done that in front of us. It's okay Twilight, trust me, I've embarrassed myself back in middle school whenever I get excited...too much. 

"Besides, it'll be nice to have a companion for Spike so he won't bother me so much while I'm studying." Twilight said.

"Oh, Pinkie, do you want some of mine?" Fluttershy offered.

"UGH!" Pinkie stuck her tongue out. "A Parasprite? Are you kidding me?" Pinkie said as she walked off, much to our surprise.

"Ugh?" Fluttershy asked in confusion.

"A para-what?" Twilight asked.

"Pinkie, is there something wrong?" Kodi asked.

"Yes there is Kodiak!" Pinkie said rubbing his fur. "Now if you excuse me, I gotta go find a trombone!" Pinkie said, wait, a trombone? For what?

"A what?" Twilight asked.

"A trombone, you know.." She said as she imitated the instrument and hopped off.

"....What was that about?" I asked.

"I don't know, but we'll probably leave her be." Twilight said shaking her head at Pinkie's randomness. "Well anyway, I'm going to go show this little guy to Rarity! Bye!" Twilight soon fled off in excitement.

"So Ren..." I turned to Fluttershy, who was smiling softly at me. "What do you think about these 'Parasprites'?" She asked.

"I think they look cute, well a little creepy with the bug bug eyes, but still, cute." I said smiling happily at her.

"Yeah but, didn't you say you just had one?" Kodi asked.

"Yeah, I thought I had one with me, but maybe a few more sneaked inside my mane when I wasn't looking..." Fluttershy replied, unsure.

"I guess so...wait a minute, I remember you saying that you found it at the edge of the Everfree Forest, right?" I asked, which she nodded. Well, if I know anything about the Everfree Forest, it's nothing but bad news. Hmm, I better research this, but luckily, Twilight took care of the three Parasprites that I apparently had. "I see...well I'll catch you later Fluttershy, see ya in the celebration." I said waving goodbye to her.

"Do you think its weird for two Parasprites to appear out of nowhere, Ren?" Kodi asked me.

"Yeah, it sure does Kodi, hmm, we better head off to Twilight's library and try to find anything about those Parasprites." I suggested, which Kodi nodded in agreement. We headed off to the Golden Oak Library to learn more about these Parasprites. Fluttershy didn't know them and she's an expert on every creature in Equestria, and Twilight didn't seem to know what it was, and Pinkie seemed to know what it was, but...why did she seem angry upon seeing something so adorable. I mean, she becomes quite exciting whenever she sees something adorable like...Kodiak. Besides, why is she getting instruments in the first place? Oh well, I guess I'll figure it out later.

We finally arrived to Twilight's house and knocked on her door. "Twilight, you there?" I called out to her.

Suddenly, the door opened, revealing Twilight. "Oh hey, Ren, Kodiak."

"Hiya, Twilight!" Kodi said happily wagging his tail. 

"Hi Kodi." Twilight said rubbing his head, much to his joy. 

"Hey Twilight, I was wondering if I could find out more about those parasprites in one of your books." I asked.

"Oh my gosh, Ren. I was curious about those too, I wanted to look myself, but Spike and I have been so busy with cleaning up the place, you know, stacking the books back on the shelves and dusting."

"I see..." I said sweat-dropping. "Well, can I borrow a book about all creatures in Equestria?" 

"Hmm, how about tomorrow?" Twilight suggested, which I nodded. 

"Hey, where did those Parasprites go?" Kodi asked noticing they weren't around in her home. 

"Oh about that, I'm keeping one for research and gave the others to Rarity. But the strangest thing though, when I want to go show the Parasprites to her, I had three with me too! I didn't know where they came from!"

"Wait, wait, wait! You have two more of them?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"Well yes, I-"

"TWILIGHT!" Spike shouted out from inside the Golden Oak Library. "Get your plot back in here and help me!" I could've sworn that I heard a crash of books and a groan.

"Sorry, Ren, Kodiak. I have to go before Spike blows a fuse." Twilight said as she closed the door. You know, I can imagine him blowing flames of fire if he ever throws a tantrum or such.

"So...what now?" Kodi asked with a confused expression.

"I guess we'll head home for now and come back tomorrow to see Princess Celestia, maybe she'll know more about the Parasprites." I said as we started to walk back home. It's strange really. Twilight had three instead of one Parasprite...just like Fluttershy...hmm, wait, what if they reproduced and multiplied? Nah, that's impossible...actually, never mind because like I said. Here in Equestria, the impossible is possible apparently. Oh well, I suppose I'll figure it out tomorrow and visit Fluttershy tomorrow to learn more about these Parasprites.

Suddenly, I heard a growl coming from Kodiak. "So can we eat something Ren? I'm starving." Kodi said rubbing his belly with his paw. 

This caused me to chuckle and said "Okay Kodi, let's go home and eat some lunch." I said happily, much to Kodi's joy. You know, come to think of it, I'm kinda hungry too. I guess some lunch can help me calm down from this Parasprite situation. I mean, what can a bunch of cute little creatures can do to ruin the celebration tomorrow?





The Next Day

"REN! OPEN THE DOOR! WE NEED YOUR HELP!" Huh? I woke up in an instant door knocking and yelling.

"GAH! Who's there?!" Kodi asked getting up from his doggy bed. I got up and put on my clothes and grabbed my Megaphone Hacking Gun as me and Kodiak headed outside, finding Twilight, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash.

"What's going you guys?!" I asked.

"It's the Parasprites, Ren! They keep appearing out of nowhere and now Ponyville is infested by them!" Twilight exclaimed.

"W-what? How is that possible?" Kodi asked.

"I don't know, but this is just getting ridiculous!" Rainbow exclaimed. 

"Okay, but this is impossible, how can they-" Wait a minute, Fluttershy! "Oh no, Fluttershy!" I said, realizing that she kept some of the Parasprite back at her cottage yesterday. 

"Oh that's right, didn't Fluttershy have one of her own Parasprite?" Rarity reminded us.

"Yeah...oh no..." Twilight widened her eyes upon realizing that. "Guys, we need to go to Fluttershy's cottage, NOW!" Twilight yelled as we raced towards Fluttershy's house. While running, I decided to talk to them.

"How did this happen, you guys?!" I asked. 

"I don't know, after me and Spike finished cleaning up yesterday, I was researching about the Parasprites but found nothing. Then, the next day, I found millions of Parasprites in my home!" Twilight explained.

"The same goes to me, but worse is that they started eating all the food that we prepared for Princess Celestia's visit!" Rarity exclaimed.

"You mean...they ate all of it?!" Kodiak asked in shock, which everypony nodded in response. Kodi then growled in anger and started running faster. "NOPONY EATS ALL THE GOOD TREATS!" Kodi asked as he began running at a faster pace than any of us. Boy, remind me to give him some food to not upset him.

"Yeah, you heard the dog, let's go!" Rainbow said as she flew the same pace as Kodiak. Hey! Don't leave us hanging! 

We finally arrived to Fluttershy's cottage, oh god, I hope she's okay. 

"Come on you guys, we need to save Fluttershy and the snacks before its too late!" Kodi said impatiently. 

Right before Twilight could even knock, the door burst open in a swarm of Parasprites! 

"Or not!" Rarity added. We rushed inside, only to see Fluttershy trying to control the little pests. 

"Ugh! Do something, Fluttershy! Can't you control them?!" Twilight asked.

"I tried everything I know! I've tried begging, and pleading, and beseeching, and asking politely-" Fluttershy gasped in shock as she tried to stop some Parasprites as they got into more of her things.

"No offense Fluttershy, but I think its best if you just tell them to leave without being polite?" I suggested sheepishly.

"I'm sorry Ren, but I'm just not good at yelling at creatures like these Parasprites." Fluttershy replied, which caused to raise a brow. She yelled at a full grown dragon, how can she not yell at them if they're causing trouble for us?

"Well if we can't get them under control before the princess arrives, it'll be a total disaster!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Twilight, calm down!" I said. "We'll think of a way to handle these Parasprites, all we need is a full-proof plan." I said rubbing my chin in thought. What can we do? We can try luring them with food, but it needs to be full-proof...

I then noticed a yellow Parasprite flew near Rarity and hacked something out. It looked like a mud ball at first, but then it instantly formed into a new brown parasprite.

"Ew!" Rarity cried out. "if you ask me, it's already a total disaster!"

"Well...at least we now know how they keep multiplying." Kodi said sweat-dropping.

Suddenly, we heard somepony whistled outside. Hmm, who could that be? We walked outside of the cottage to see Applejack coming to us with a wagon full of apples. 

"Hey Fluttershy, here's all those apples you wanted." Applejack announced while she was crossing the bridge. "But I still can't figure out why you need so many-" Applejack was cut off as a herd of Parasprites noticed the cart full of apples and instantly attacked them, leaving nothing behind and fleeing.

"HEY!" Applejack called angrily.

"What do we do?" Fluttershy asked, worriedly.

"I say I can use my Hacking Gun and try to control them." I said noticing one Parasprite nearby. I aimed for it and shouted out "Link" at it, but the Parasprite noticed it and swallowed the 'Link' beam, not having any affect on him, much to my shock. "Well....that's new." I muttered, widening my eyes in shock.

"Wait a minute, that's it!" Twilight said with a big grin on her face. "Nopony can herd like Applejack!"

"Oh that's it, I remember that she handle the cow herd when they went on a stampede!" I said remembering back when Applejack was busy doing her Applebuck Season thing or whatever.

"Well, I'll rustle them up, but I need everypony's help to do it. Twilight, you and Rarity wait over there. I'll herd the little critters straight at you like a funnel. Rainbow Dash, you and Fluttershy stay on top of them, and whatever you do, don't let them fly away!" Applejack instructed.

"Aye aye." Rainbow understood, saluting to her.

"Wait, what about me and Ren?" Kodi asked, wanting to help as well.

"Oh right, Ren, you and Kodi stay on the other side, so they don't escape. Beside Ren, your Hacking Gun might come in handy." Me and Kodiak nodded to her as we got into our positions.

"YEE-HAW!" Applejack shouted

They got to it, Applejack herding one swarm of the Parasprites with Kodi pursuing the others by barking at them. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy did a good job keeping the pests from flying away and forcing them to fly lower. Before long, the parasprites had all been herded together, forming a close-knit ball of them.

"Alright you all." Applejack called. "Head them up and move them out!"

"But, where do we put them?" Kodi asked. 

"That depends on where they came from, Kodi." I replied.

"Well...they did come from the Everfree Forest, so I guess that's where they should go back too." Fluttershy said sadly. I couldn't help but feel bad for her. I mean, sure these Parasprites may have been annoying but Fluttershy really cares about them. I guess I'll try to do something to cheer her up.

"Hey, don't worry Fluttershy." I said, gaining her attention. "I promise that we'll make it up to." Fluttershy then smiled softly at the promise I made.

"Oh, thank you Ren." She replied happily.

"Hey!" Rainbow called out to us. "Less talking, more moving!" Oh right, the Parasprites.

We all nodded and began rolling the ball of Parasprites back to the Everfree Forest.

"Look out, Rarity! That one's fixing to get away!" Applejack called, but luckily, Rarity was able to keep one of the Parasprites from escaping.

"So how long till we get there?" Kodi asked.

"Hold on, everypony!" Applejack encouraged. "We're almost there!"

As we almost to the entrance of the Everfree Forest, a familiar pink pony appeared right in front of us.

"Pinkie?!" I exclaimed, surprised to see her again.

"Rennie, Twilight, everypony, we don't have much time!" Pinkie said, sounding incredulous.

"Tell me something that we don't know, the princess could arrive any moment!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Exactly! That's why I need everypony to drop what they're doing and help me find some Maracas!" 

"Wait? Maracas?" I asked in a deadpanned expression. "Why do you need Maracas?"

"Ren's right, Pinkie! We've got much bigger problems than missing Maracas!" Twilight exclaimed glaring at the pink pony.

Pinkie then gasp before saying "You're right! Getting a tuba has to be our number one goal. Follow me!" Pinkie then ran ahead, but ran backward when we weren't following her. "I said, follow me!" Pinkie repeated.

"Pinkie Pie, you are so random." Rainbow Dash announced, flying closer to me, Kodi, and Twilight.

"And you're all so stubborn!" Pinkie huffed her cheeks in anger and ran off.

"Do you think we upset her?" Kodi asked feeling bad for hurting Pinkie's feelings.

"Don't worry Kodiak, I'm sure we'll make it to her." I said rubbing his head.

"Ren's right, forget her. Focus. Head them up and move them out!" Applejack called out to us. I know Pinkie sounded ridiculous about the whole instrument thing, but....I feel like its something very important. Anyway, we finally reached to the Everfree Forest, now time to get rid of these Parasprites!

"Ren, can you do the honors?" Twilight asked with a grin on her face.

"With pleasure, Twilight." I said as I took out my Hacking Gun and aimed it at the ball of Parasprites. "Knock-Back!" I shouted as I shot a gust of wind at the Parasprites, causing them to fly off deep in the Everfree Forest.

"Alright!" Rainbow slapped her hooves on my back. "Great job, Ren!"

"Thanks Rainbow...but ooow..." I said rubbing my back. 

"We did it! Nice work, Applejack." Twilight complimented Applejack.

"Couldn't have done it without you all." Applejack thanked.

"Now let's get back and clean the mess they made, before the princess arrives." Twilight said, which we nodded in agreement.

"Good, because I am starving." Kodi said rubbing his achy stomach as it growl in hunger, which made Kodi smiled sheepishly. I just made a smirk and shake my head at him. 





We all walked back towards Fluttershy's cottage. "Now, we gotta work extra hard to make up for lost time." Twilight said.

As soon as Fluttershy opened her door, millions of Parasprites rushed out of the door, leaving a freak tailwind as they zoomed off.

"What the?! Where did they come from?!" I asked, surprised to see so many of them...again.

"Well...I may have kept just one." Fluttershy said chuckling nervously. The girls gave her stink-eyes while I face-palmed.

"Fluttershy!" I exclaimed.

"I couldn't help myself!" Fluttershy whined as she looked at the one she kept. "They're just so...cute!"

"Well cute or not, these things have got to go!" I said in a serious expression.

"But that means that we have to start all over again!" Rainbow snapped.

"Look, we don't have time for that." Twilight exclaimed. "Princess Celestia could arrive any moment, what do we do now?"

"We call in the weather patrol!" Rainbow shouted as she took flight to get an aerial view of the problem. She started to flew around the Parasprites and yelled "YAAAAA!" She spun around and around until she formed a tornado, collecting and sucking all of the Parasprites.

"Way to go, Rainbow Dash!" Twilight said happily.

"Huh...looks like our problems are solved!" I said smiling.

"They will be with these cymbals." Pinkie Pie randomly appeared right in front of us, clashing some cymbals together from who knows where. However, the tornado sucked in the cymbals as well. "Hey! Give me those back!" 

"Oh no, Dashie is in trouble!" Kodi exclaimed.

The cymbals began causing problems for Rainbow Dash, who lost concentration of her twister and broke apart as she tried to dodge the discs that came very close to taking her head off.

"Whoa. Yaa! Yow! Whoa! Wow! I can't hold it! She's..breaking...up!" Rainbow Dash flew straight towards a tree and crash-landed. The tornado disappeared and released all the Parasprites, freely. They all headed towards Ponyville. Oh....crap.

"Pinkie, what have you done?!" Twilight exclaimed, furiously.

"I've lost a brand new pair of cymbals, that's what I've done!" Pinkie responded.

"Will you forget about your silly instruments for one second? You're ruining our efforts to save Ponyville!" 

"Me? Ruin?!" Pinkie said, shocked to hear such an accusation. "I'm not the ruiner, I'm the ruinee! Or is it Ruiness? Ruineette?"

"Ugh, come on, there's no reasoning with that one." Applejack announced. "She's a few apples short of a bushel."

Soon, the girls ran off, leaving Pinkie alone, but me and Kodiak stayed for a reason. Why? Well, I just have this feeling that maybe Pinkie might have a plan to solve all of this.

"Hey! I'm trying to tell you all that the ruining is on the other hoof. If you just slow down and listen to me!" Pinkie screamed in anger.

"Umm, Pinkie, we're standing right here with you." Kodi said, gaining Pinkie's attention.

"Wait...you two believe me?" Pinkie asked.

"Yeah." I spoke up. "I'm sorry if Twilight and the others weren't listening to you, they're just stressed out from the Parasprite manifestation. Besides, I noticed that you seemed focus on finding these instruments and besides, you didn't even like that Parasprite when we first show it to you, and you love cute things, so I knew something was up." I explained, much to Pinkie's joy that she gave me a hug.

"Thanks for believing in me, Rennie!" Pinkie exclaimed. 

"Hey, anytime Pinkie." I said smiling happily. As soon as we break the hug down. Kodiak spoke up and said "So Pinkie Pie, do you know a way to get rid all of the Parasprites?"

"Yeah of course Kodi!" Pinkie said grinning at my pet dog. "You see, I have dealt with these nasty (yet cute) critters before and I found out that these instruments get rid of them!"

"Really? How?" I asked.

"When I play them..." Pinkie showed me a bag full of instruments that she found around town. "They get distracted and follow it, so if I get every one of those parasprites to follow me, I can get them back to the Everfree Forest!"

"Wow...that's actually a good plan Pinkie." I said amazed by that well thought-out plan.

"Well then, let's go!" Kodi said as we began to run towards Ponyville. Once we arrived, we all became shocked to see the Parasprites raiding the entire town by eating all of the food, much to Kodi's shock and anger. Pinkie managed to find tambourines and gather different instruments in a bag. After we manage to get enough instruments, we spotted Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Twilight.

"Alright, that's everything! If only they can listen to me." Pinkie said as she saw the others and it seemed they were doing something. But then, I overheard what they were saying.

"Think, think...I've got it!" I overheard Twilight announced. "I'll cast a spell to stop them from eating all the food!" I widened my eyes upon hearing that idea.

"Um...do you think that will work?" Fluttershy asked.

"Of course, they'll lose their appetite for any kind of food, what could go wrong?" Twilight scoffed and she prepared to unleash the spell. 

"Twilight, no wait! Pinkie has a plan to-" It was too late. Twilight already cast the spell on every Parasprite that was in town. The effect was instantaneous, every one of the little bugs suddenly stopped in confusion.

"Well...we're doom." I muttered, dryly.

Twilight looked at a parasprite as it sniffed at an apple in a basket before turning it nose up at it. She sighed in relief, only to gasp in shock as the parasprite ate the basket instead!

We all looked around to see the Parasprites were now eating objects and the buildings around us. One chomped on a sign, another ate the top of a lamppost, and a swarm was munching off the roof of a house. 

"Oh no! They're eating everything!" Kodiak exclaimed in shock.

A wagon was reduced to its wheels and the apples it was carrying. 

"Heh. Hey..." Rainbow Dash spoke up as she looked over to Twilight. "It work. They're not eating the food anymore."

"Oh no...if they get inside of my store...EVERYPONY FOR HIS OR HERSELF!" Rarity exclaimed running to her home. Twilight ran off to her home. Rainbow Dash began being chased by many Parasprites. Everywhere was in complete chaos. Princess Celestia was going to be here in a few minutes and I can imagined her reaction once she comes to Ponyville.

"Oh no, what do we do? What do we do? What do we do?!" Kodi began running around in circles in panic.

"Calm down Kodi. I'm sure Pinkie can think of something, right?" I turned to Pinkie, but she wasn't around. "Wait, where did she go?" I asked as I looked around to find her. Soon, I heard music being played. I saw Pinkie leading a trail of Parasprites while marching with the many instruments she gathered. 

"Whoa...she was right..." I muttered in amazement.

"Yeah, she's leading those Parasprites like they're in a marching band." Kodi said as he wagged his tail in joy. 

Soon, Twilight walked over to us and shrugged in disbelief.

"So....you're regretting of not listening to Pinkie Pie, eh?" I asked. Twilight blushed lightly and muttered "Yeah...". Soon, we followed Pinkie Pie and her fan of Parasprites until Twilight stopped and pointed. "Look! It's Princess Celestia!" I look at where Twilight was pointing at and saw Princess Celestia being escorted by some guards in golden armor. We ran ahead of Pinkie Pie and bowed to her.

"Twilight Sparkle, my prized pupil." Princess Celestia greeted before noticing me and Kid as well. "Ah, Ren, it is so nice to see you again as well."

"Hello, princess!" Twilight responded with a hint of nervousness in her voice.

"Hi Princess Celestia, how its going?" I asked, not feeling nervous at all. 

"It is so lovely see you again, as well as your friends." Princess Celestia said before noticing Kodiak looking at her curiously. "Oh? And who is this?" She asked.

"Oh this is Kodiak...and he can talk." I said sweat-dropping.

"Yep, its true." Kodi said, which surprised her and the two guards.

"Oh my...well I have heard about animals with the rare ability to speak, but I have never seen one in person." Princess Celestia said walking forward and rubbing Kodiak's fur, much to his joy. Well, it seems Kodiak made a new friend. 

"So...how was the trip? Hit much traffic?" Twilight asked nervously. This caused me to give her a blank expression. Seriously? I heard many people in shows say that line when they're trying to hide something from others and that makes them suspicious of what the people are hiding.

"What is this?" Huh? I turned to Princess Celestia and became shocked to see a Parasprite landing on her wing, but she didn't mind of it as well as she giggled. "These creatures are adorable.

"Not that adorable..." I muttered, rolling my eyes.

"Hm-mmm." Kodi shook his head in agreement.

"I am terribly honored that you and the good citizens of Ponyville have organized a parade in honor of my visit."

"Parade?" Twilight echoed, until she saw Pinkie leading the Parasprites away from town and into the Everfree Forest. "Oh...that...you see..."

"Yeah, exactly Princess, a parade is a perfect way to honor one of the Princesses of Equestria!" I exclaimed, smiling innocently, but, I was sweating bullets like mad.

"Unfortunately, that visit is going to have to be postponed." Princess Celestia said with an apologetic look. 

"Really? Why Miss Celestia?" Kodiak asked curiously.

Princess Celestia smiled softly at him and said "It seems an emergency just came up in Fillydelphia, some kind of...infestation." 

"An...infestation?" Twilight squeaked, even I was confused.

"Yes, a swarm of incredibly bothersome creatures have invaded the poor town. I'm sorry, everypony, to have to put you all through so much trouble." A swarm of incredibly bothersome creatures-

Oh....crap

"Trouble, what trouble?!" Twilight giggled nervously.

"Before I go, would you care to give me your latest report on the Magic of Friendship in person?" Princess Celestia asked.

"My...report?" Twilight wondered. 

"Haven't you learned anything about friendship?" Princess Celestia asked. Twilight hesitate at first but then,I decided to speak up and answered her question.

"Actually, she did Princess." I said, gaining both of their attentions. "She learned that sometimes the solution to your problems can come from where you least expect it. It's a good idea to stop and listen to your friends' opnions and perspectives..." Soon, we overheard some cymbals crashing, probably from Pinkie. 

"Even when they don't always seem to make sense." Twilight added.

"I'm so proud of you, Twilight Sparkle, and I'm impressed with your friends as well." Princess Celestia complimented us. "It sounds like you're all learning so much from each other."

"Thank you, Princess." Twilight said as we watched her leave on her pegasus-drawn chariot.

"Bye bye, Princess! I'll see you again!" I said waving goodbye to her. 

"Well...she was nice..." Kodiak said smiling happily at her. Twilight let out a sigh of relief and noticed that the music has finally stopped as we turned around to see everypony talking with Pinkie Pie. 

We walked over to Pinkie as she finished having the last of the Parasprites leave.

"Hey, what happened to the princess?" Pinkie asked, looking around to see that she's nowhere to be found.

"Emergency in Fillydelphia." Twilight responded.

"Some sort of infestation." I added,

"Oh no! Have they got parasprites too? Well, I have my tuba, so I will travel there." Pinkie said as she blew her tuba, which made me and Kodi laugh at that.

"Nah, I think the princess can handle it." Twilight replied.

"So you knew what those critters were all along, huh Pinkie Pie?" Applejack asked.

"Well duh, why do you think I was so frantic to get my hooves on all these instruments? I tried to tell you." Pinkie Pie stated.

"We know Pinkie Pie, and we're sorry we didn't listen." Twilight apologized.

Me, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, Kodiak and Applejack followed the same.

"You're a great friend, even if we don't always understand you." Twilight told Pinkie Pie.

"Yeah, we promise that we'll doubt your randomness again...well maybe, sometimes." I said, which made everypony laugh.

Pinkie Pie grinned happily as she said "Thanks guys, you're all great friends too, even when you all don't understand me."

"You saved my reputation with Princess Celestia, and more importantly, you saved Ponyville." Twilight said until I tapped her shoulder.

"I...wouldn't be too sure about that." I pointed out as we saw the town in a total mess left by the Parasprites.

"Or not..." Twilight said, disappointed.

We all let out a groan at the work ahead of us as Pinkie played a "Wah-wah-wah-wah' moment on a trumbone.





Later

So, after cleaning up the town, me and Kodiak decided to check up on Fluttershy because I kind feel bad for her because she might think that this was all her fault as well for letting the Parasprite come to Ponyville in the first place. Once we arrived to her cottage, I knocked on her door. A few seconds later, she opened the door, surprised to see us.

"Oh hello Ren, Kodiak, what are you doing here?" She asked.

"Hey Fluttershy...we came by to check on you to see if you're okay because of the...you know.." I said rubbing my head in embarrassment.

"Oh..right, it's okay Ren and Kodiak. Thanks for feeling worried about me." Fluttershy replied.

"Do you miss those Parasprites, Fluttershy?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Hmm...well a little, but I'm sure someday we'll meet again and this time, they won't go on a rampage." Boy, I wouldn't be too sure about that.

"Yeah...but maybe they will come back Flutters." I said. "Well anyway, I gotta go, see ya little sis." I said before realizing what I said. Did I call Fluttershy 'little sis'?

"Ren...do you call me 'little sis'?" Fluttershy asked.

"Yeah...I kinda don't know where that came from, but...you kinda sometimes remind me of my sister." I said smiling softly.

"Well...I kinda think of you as a big brother, Ren." Fluttershy said smiling softly at me. Soon enough, our conversation ended as me and Kodiak waved goodbye to her and headed home. Let's just hope those Parasprites didn't think of coming to my home and eat anything inside of the place.

"Say Ren?" Kodiak called me.

"Yeah, Kodi?" I asked.

"Did you really think of Fluttershy as your little sister?" He asked. Ah, I see.

"Yeah, you know, I kinda think of Twilight and the others as my family. Well because...they always believe in me and I believe in them." I said happily.

"Do you...think of me as family?" Kodi asked as his ears dropped down.

"Well of course, I think of you as a little brother, or maybe big brother, whichever comes first due to dog years, I guess." I said, which made Kodiak happy. Kodiak then jumped onto my face and started licking me. 

"Okay boy, that's enough!" I said laughing. 

"Sorry...force of habit." Kodi said smiling sheepishly. 

"Nah, it's okay." I said scratching his ear, much to his delight. "Come on, let's go home." I said happily as we walked home. I just hope those Parasprites didn't come to my home and ate anything in my home-ship, hopefully my manga and games and such. But I'm kind disappointed that I didn't get the chance to talk to Celestia, I was hoping that maybe we could talk to see if she found a spell to find my way back home. Oh well, maybe next time. Now, time to go home, make some snacks for me and Kodiak, and watch some Dragonball Z! 

To Be Continued
> Chapter 11 - Fall Weather Friends
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's been one month now that I have lived here in Equestria and I haven't heard a word from Celestia about how can I get back home. I just hope she finds a way to bring me back soon. Anyway, it seems that Fall has come to town, and by that, I mean the weather. Who would've thought that Fall would arrived so soon?

Me and Kodiak were walking around Ponyville, seeing how much the weather changed.

"Wow, it's been a month and it's already Fall." I said in amazement. "Time sure flies, huh?"

"I know right?" Kodiak replied as a leaf fell down on his nose. He noticed it and shook it off. "I kinda wish sometimes it would be fall all the time!" I couldn't help but smirk at him.

"I take it that you love the weather, Kodiak?" I asked.

"Of course, it's my favorite weather!" Kodiak replied happily. Well, that's nice. My favorite weather is Winter, why you ask? Because I love playing in the snow, making snow angels, building snowman, and having snowball fights. Ahh, it sure brings back some memories back from my world.

While we walked around town, we arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, seeing Applejack and Rainbow playing a game of....horseshoes? I've heard about it, it's a game where you try to throw horseshoes onto the pole, and if you manage to throw it on the pole, you win.

"Oh hey, it's Applejack and Rainbow Dash!" Kodiak exclaimed in excitement.

"Yeah, it seems so." I said smiling towards them. "Though, it is kinda ironic for ponies to be throwing horseshoes besides wearing them." I added.

BONK!

"YOW!" I exclaimed, feeling something hard hit the side of my head. God, it's almost painful than Rainbow Dash slamming into me all the time.

"Sorry!" I looked up to see Rainbow Dash, who was smiling sheepishly and shrugged apologetically.

"Wow, Rainbow. You couldn't hit a barn door with that throw." Applejack giggled.

"Better a barn door than myhead!" I exclaimed, getting back up.

"Ren, are you okay?" Kodiak asked in concern.

"Y-yeah, I think so." I just hope my bump isn't that big.

"So...what are you girls doing?" Kodi asked.

"Nothing, just playing a quick game of Horseshoe." Applejack answered.

"Speaking of horseshoe, it's your turn AJ." Rainbow said turning to Applejack with a smug grin on her face. Applejack grabbed the horseshoe with her teeth and concentrated. She gave a grunt with a firm throw and it landed straight on the metal pole, clattering as the midpoint of the horseshoe collided with the metal.

"Yee-haw!" Applejack cheered. "It's a ringer. That's how you do it down here on the farm!"

"I lost..." Rainbow said, looking dejected.

"Cheer up Dashie, it's just a game." Kodi said, trying to cheer her up, but she grunted as she crossed her hooves and muttered "I hate losing..."

"Come on Dash, like Kodi said, it's just a game." I said still holding my head since I was still feeling the pain from the horseshoe.

"Yeah, I mean it's all in good fun, Rainbow." Applejack assured. "Besides your a pretty good athlete." But as she trotted away, Applejack couldn't resist adding "I'm just better."

Oh, she got you there Dash! Rainbow Dash gritted her teeth in anger as she fluttered after her. Oh boy, this can't be good. Me and Kodi looked at each other, and decided to follow after her.

"You think you're the top athlete in all of Ponyville?" Rainbow asked.

"Well, I was gonna say in all of Equestria...but that might be gliding the lily." Applejack said, smirking as she brushed Rainbow in the face with her tail. Oh, something tells me that this won't end up well.

"Well I think I'm the top athlete..." Rainbow remarked. "So let's prove it!"

"Prove what?" Kodi asked.

"I challenge you to an Iron Pony Competition, a series of athletic contests to decide who's the best...once and for all!" Rainbow declared, ignoring Kodi's question.

"Um...didn't she hear me, Ren?" Kodi asked, turning to me.

"She did...it's just that she's kinda focus on Applejack right now." I replied, sweat-dropping.

"Oh."

"You know what, Rainbow? You're on." Applejack said as she spat on her hoof, along with Rainbow Dash, and they both pressed their hooves together, indicating a deal.

"Well...good luck with that, girls. Come on Kodi." I said as we were about to leave. Until suddenly, I was yank on my hoodie by Dash, who I glared back at.

"Hey, what's a competition without someone to witness it?" Rainbow asked.

"Yeah Ren, come on, it might be fun!" Kodi said, wagging his tail in joy. Hmm, well I guess it would be fun.

"Alright, I see why not?" I asked, much to Kodi's joy.

"YAY!" Kodi yelled happily.

"Alright then." Applejack walked towards us. "How about you two help us set up the obstacle course then?"

"Sure." I shrugged as me, Kodiak, Rainbow, and Applejack got to work on the obstacle course. You know, I do want to see how good Applejack and Rainbow Dash are good at sports, I guess this will be my chance to see it.





Later

Phew...finally done. We finally finished making the front-yard of Sweet Apple Acres as an obstacle course, as well as a few places for different kinds of competitions.

"Awesome!" Kodi said, excitedly. "Can't wait for this Iron Pony Competition to begin!"

"Yeah, same here bud." I agreed.

"Hey Ren, Kodiak." Huh? We turned around to see Twilight and Spike entering Sweet Apple Acres. "What's up with this place?" Twilight asked, looking around the obstacle course in curiosity.

"Oh nothing, except two of our favorite stubborn and hard-headed mares are competing in some competition to prove which one of them is more better." I said, cracking a smile at her and Spike.

"Let me guess, Rainbow Dash and Applejack?" Spike guessed.

"Hmm-mm!" I nodded in response.

"Well...that is something." Twilight said, surprised to hear this before smiling. "So...do you think if we can watch this competition?"

"Sure, I don't see why not." I said shrugging my shoulders.

"Yeah, you should!" Kodi added. "It's gonna be tons of fun!"

"I bet it will be fun!" Spike agreed.

"Yeah..." I added. Hey, maybe...."Hey Twilight, do you think you can help judging the competition, I'm sure with your expertise, you can help out with much." I said happily.

"Hmm..." Twilight thought for a while until she nodded her head and said "Okay, I see why not."

"Alright then, so anyway the bleachers are over there to your right." I said pointing to where the bleachers were. "So come on, let's get this competition started!" I said pumping my fist in the air as we walked towards the bleachers. Me and Kodi sat down, alongside with Twilight, while Spike stood on top of Twilight as he held on a twig, speaking into it like a microphone.

"Hello, everypony!" Spike announced. "And welcome to the first annual Iron Pony Competition!"

"Uh, Spike? Who're you talking to?" Twilight asked.

"Us!" We turned around to see Pinkie, Rarity,  and Fluttershy joining in on the fun. Wait, where did they even come from?

"Hello!" Kodi waved to them happily.

"Hi!" Pinkie waved back to us.

Spike then leaped onto Twilight's head, much to her chagrin, as he declared "Let the games begin!"

The first event was a race to see how many seconds can they get to the finish line by jumping over the barrels.

Applejack stood before the course, as Twilight walked up, Spike on her back while holding a stopwatch.

"Ready...set...go!" Spike announced.

"Applejack zoomed past the moment Spike started the count. She raced hastily across the track, dodging the barrels with very swift maneuvers. However, for some reason, Applejack tipped the barrel as she passed by it. She crossed the finish line, aware of this action.

"Time, Spike?" Twilight asked.

"17 seconds!" Spike announced.

"You're kidding!" Applejack responded, excitedly. "That breaks my record from last year's rodeo." A rodeo? Hmm, why do I have the feeling this rodeo is different from the ones back at my world.

"But..." Spike brought up. "You got a five-second penalty for nudging the barrel."

"Aw, nuts and shrews!" Applejack sighed as she kicked a rock in front of her. "Still, that's 22 seconds. Not too shabby."

"Ahh, oh well, better luck next time." Kodi said feeling bad for Applejack getting that five-second penalty. I smiled softly and rubbed his head.

"I'm sure Applejack accepted that pretty easy." I said, which made Kodi a little cheerful. I then noticed Rainbow sweating nervously. Oh my, is the fastest pony in all of Equestria getting all nervous and scared about beating Applejack?

"Hey, don't be nervous. Remember, it's all in good fun. Now git on up there." Applejack said as she nudged Rainbow Dash. Rainbow let out a sigh and flew to her position and readied herself.

"Ready...set...go!" Twilight announced.

Spike clicked the timer, sending Rainbow Dash off. She sprinted across the track, dodging the barrels. Her speed blew the flowers on the barrels as a rainbow trailed behind her as soon as she reached the finish line.

"Wow...she's good." Kodi commented.

"Yeah, you can say that again." I said in surprise. Seriously, how does she leave a rainbow trail whenever she flies around?

"Woo! That was some fancy hoofwork there, Rainbow!" Applejack congratulated her.

"Thanks, but I couldn't have been as fast as you." Rainbow replied, flying back to the beginning while panting.

"18 seconds!" Spike said, shocked to hear that. Even me and Kodiak was surprised to hear that. 18 seconds?! That's gotta be the world record, she might be fast than Usain Bolt!

"18 seconds. Rainbow, are you sure you're not secretly a rodeo pony?" Applejack asked, jokingly.

"Rainbow Dash wins the barre lead!" Twilight exclaimed.

Fluttershy flew upwards to the scoreboard and placed a cardboard apple, which had the number one, onto the scoreboard next to Rainbow Dash's Cutie Mark Symbol.

"Oh, I can't believe I won!" Rainbow expressed.

"Yeah, well, don't you go getting used to it." Applejack assured with a smirk.





The next event began as more and more ponies had joined to watch the competition. Hmm, I guess this Iron Pony Competition has intrigued, heck I even saw Big Mac, Apple Bloom, and an elderly pony joined in. I'm guessing that might be Applejack's grandma or something.

"So what's this next event about, Ren?" Kodi asked curiously, sitting on my lap.

"Well, this event is to prove your strength by knocking a ball to hit the bell above." I explained.

"Well that seems kinda silly." Kodi said, chuckling a little. I rolled my eyes upon hearing that claim.

Anyway, Rainbow Dash went up first as she walked towards the painted target and kicked it. The ball flew upwards and rung the bell, which made everypony cheered, even me and Kodiak. Rainbow shook her hooves in cheering alongside the crowd.

Applejack was lying on a tree as Rainbow Dash came to brag. She had a straw of wheat in her mouth.

"Mighty respectable." Applejack replied as she spat the wheat out of her mouth. Well, that what I call being hardcore and taking something serious. "But let me show you how it's really done." With no hesitation, Applejack kicked the painted target, breaking it into little pieces as the sound of broken wood cried out. The ball launched straight towards the bell, even knocking it off the wooden piece of board it was attached to. The bell continued to fly upwards at an amazing speed as ponies cheered and Rainbow Dash stared at the scene, dumbstruck. Wow, she's good.

"Years of applebucking." Applejack said as she walked near Rainbow Dash, kicking a tree Rainbow Dash was under. Several apples fell on top of her head.

Fluttershy happily added one to Applejack's score.

Oooh, that's gonna leave a mark. I just hope Applejack and Rainbow Dash don't get too carried away by the Iron Pony Competition of theirs.

....Nah, they're totally gonna be carried away by this competition.





The next event consisted of a sort of bull riding event like in a rodeo. Except that both of the ponies had to see how fast they could shake off the victim...who was Spike. You know, it's kinda like the opposite of the rodeo back from my home now that I realized it.

"Why me?" Spike asked himself.

"Go!" Twilight announced, regardless.

Applejack began shaking Spike off. "Whoa! Whoa! Whoa-hoa! Whoa! WHOAAA!" Applejack managed to kicked him off, flying him towards the sky and landing on a stack of hay nearby. "Ouch."

"...He'll probably be okay." Kodi said, smiling sheepishly.

As Spike try to get out of the stack of hay, Rainbow emerged from the hay and asked "Ready for another pony ride?"

"No!" Spike strained.

"Go!" Twilight announced.

Rainbow Dash immediately began bouncing rapidly. "Guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guhwhooooaaaa!" And it looks like Rainbow won this one due to how she got Spike off of her instantly.

As Twilight observed Spike fly across the sky, she yelled out the winner. "Rainbow Dash wins the bronco-buck!"

We heard a crashing sound as I looked to see Spike crashed over to the scoreboard. Fluttershy didn't mind as she added a point to Rainbow Dash's score.

"Wow...that's got to hurt." Kodi said wincing upon seeing Spike crashed into the scoreboard.

"It's a good thing we only set up the competition, not be in it." I replied, which Kodiak nodded in agreement.

Applejack and Rainbow Dash were inside a square surrounded by wooden gates. They had lassos, which Applejack perfected easily, but Rainbow was having a little troubled with it, and by that, I mean a whole lot of it. The next event consisted of roping the victim as best as it could be done. However, the victim was Spike again, who stood at the center of the square, annoyed.

Applejack twirled her rope around and threw it at Spike, instantly catching him by his arms and feet and dragging him towards her. Ponies threw roses at Applejack as a congratulation to her. Well, I guess it was obvious she would win this event due to how many times she kept dragging me using her lasso.

"How do I get roped into these things?" Spike asked, struggled with his position.

"Good one, Spike!" I called out to him. Sorry, I just couldn't help myself. 'Roped' into these situations? How hilarious is that?

"Does this count?" We turned around and sweat-dropped upon seeing Rainbow tied herself onto a tree, and was struggling to free herself.

"I'm not even gonna ask how she got herself into that mess." I said.

"Same here." Kodi said, smiling nervously and sweat-dropping upon seeing Rainbow like that.

Fluttershy added another score to Applejack's.





Later

Several events continued to occur. One was a ball bouncing event, which Applejack struggled to keep up with Rainbow Dash, who bested her, easily. Fluttershy had caught one of the roses that fell with her mouth and placed another apple to Rainbow Dash's score.

The next event was hay throwing. Rainbow began and threw the stack of hay across at the end of the line. She flew over to her accomplishment and taunted at Applejack, but was cut short when Applejack crushed her, literally, when she threw the hay stack right on her. Fluttershy's bunny, Angel, added the score to Applejack. Huh, haven't that devil little rabbit for a while.

After that, Rainbow Dash and Applejack were hoof-wrestling, but surprisingly, Rainbow won that one, as if it wasn't a challenge at all. Guess it was payback for losing to Applejack back at Hoof-wrestling back then when we got those Grand Galloping Gala tickets.

Next up, it was a football kicking contest. Both ponies kicked the ball, but Applejack was farther; it almost me, Kodi, and everypony else that were watching the competition on the clouds. Fluttershy was about to add a score to Applejack, but the football knocked the cardboard apple from her hooves and placed it for her.

Finally, Spike announced "Fillies and gentlecolts, at the halfway point our competitors are tied at 5 and 5!"

"Who are you talking to?" Twilight asked.

"I think he's talking about them." I replied, pointing to the chattering large crowd that gathered for the competition. Jeez, it's almost like the whole town came to watch.

"Wow...that's a lot of ponies." Kodi said in amazement. I know, right? He took the words right out of my mouth.

The competition continued with Applejack and Rainbow competing to how many push-ups they could do.

"95..." Twilight announced as they strained themselves. "96, 97, 98, 99..." Both of the ponies were on the brink of giving up. "a hundred!" Rainbow Dash managed to push herself up and cheer. Applejack was still struggling to do it, but her legs gave up and she crashed on the floor. She muttered something under her breath, oh well, better luck next time.

The next event was to see how far each of the ponies could jump. Applejack began, gaining a good amount of distance from where she jumped. Rainbow looked a bit worried. She began running and jumped. However, before she landed, she saw how she had a lower distance than Applejack. She immediately stopped before touching the ground, and flew over a few feet to win against Applejack. Applejack saw this, and looked irritated, but she let it slip.

Hey wait a minute, isn't that against the rules to do that? Wonder why Twilight isn't calling Rainbow out?

After, both ponies had to take several chicks across the mud to their mothers, without getting them dirty. Applejack began walking towards the other side, but her hooves flung dirt at the chicks, causing them to leave. Applejack gasped and noticed Rainbow Dash, who was walking to the mother while using her wings to cover the chicks from getting dirty, as she grew more irritated.

"Hey, that's not fair! Dashie is just using her wings!" Kodi exclaimed, growling at Dash.

"I know how you feel Kodi, and I think after this event is over. We need to stop this!" I said, glaring at Dash.

"Alright, you two. This will be the final event. Give it all you've got!" Twilight announced.

The two were having a tug of war battle, with each end of the rope grabbed with their teeth and a red flag in the middle. Below the rope lay a pool of mud. Spike flashed his flag. Each pony began grunting, trying to pull the rope to their side. Applejack had the lead.

"Looks like the workhorse might come out ahead in this one." Spike announced.

Applejack had finally managed to pull Rainbow Dash over the mud... but Rainbow Dash suddenly separated her wings and began flying. Rainbow dash flew above, causing Applejack to hover right above the mud, helpless.

"That's not fair!" Applejack mumbled with the rope in her mouth. "You can't use your wings to help you win!"

"Huh?" Rainbow Dash asked, holding a hoof near her ear.

"You're cheating!" Applejack exclaimed, still holding the rope tight between her teeth.

"I can't understand you with that rope in your mouth!" Rainbow replied, still not hearing Applejack.

Applejack, unable to have sometime to think, released the rope from her mouth. "I said...uh oh." Uh oh, indeed. Applejack fell straight towards the mud and got herself covered in it.

Everypony cheered as Rainbow Dash placed the 15th cardboard apple to her score and started bragging. I shook my head at her for the way how she competed.

"Woo-hoo!" I win by a landslide.." Rainbow then flew over to Applejack saying "..Or mudslide in your case." She chuckled and flew straight above us, with a couple of Pegasi holding up a rainbow banner as she declared. "I am the Iron Pony!"

Alright, that's it! I can't take it anymore! I pulled out my Hacking Gun and shot 'Burn' at the banner, destroying it.

"More like the Iron Phony!" I called out, causing Dash to glare and the crowd to gasp.

"What?!" Rainbow zoomed into my face. "What did you mean?! I won Ren!" She exclaimed.

"You cheated, that's what!" Kodi said, agreeing withe me.

"Kodi's right! You only won because you used your wings to win half of those events, and I'm pretty sure that using your wings isn't fair!" I explained sternly.

"Yeah, it's totally not fair!" Kodi added.

"Pfft!" Rainbow rolled her eyes and said "Oh please! That sounds like sour-apples to me."

"More like rotten apples from you Dash!" Applejack spoke up. "I can't even believe it took somepony this long to speak up on how unfair this was."

"Right..." I rubbed my head in embarrassment. "Sorry about that Applejack." I said, feeling bad that I didn't spoke up earlier.

"It's okay Ren, I can understand if you were waiting for this to end." Applejack said before glaring at Dash. "But that doesn't explain you using your wings to cheat!"

"What?! Now you're being a sore-loser!" Rainbow accused when me and Kodi stood next to Applejack.

"Rainbow listen, what if I was the one competing against you? I could've just swooped through the competition with my Hacking Gun. Wouldn't you feel it unfair that I, a human with a gun that shape like a Megaphone, was using it to win the contests?" I asked raising a brow.

Rainbow tried to say anything, but shook her head as she looked at Applejack and said "Sorry, AJ...I was being unfair."

Applejack smiled and went over, putting a hoof on Rainbow's shoulder. "It's alright, Sugarcube, I'm just glad to know your admitting your mistake."

"Well.." We turned to see Twilight walked up. "Since Rainbow is admitting her cheating, she forfeits the points she accumulated from the contests she won using her wings. This means you two are tied again at five points each." Twilight, much to our surprise.

"Well...how are we gonna settle with it?" Kodi asked.

"I think I have an idea." Applejack spoke up. "Tomorrow is the annual Running of the leaves. That way we'll settle our dispute tomorrow."

"Heh! Easy shmeasy." Rainbow dash as she began to fly away, but Applejack pulled her down.

"Hold on! There is one condition: the point is to run, so no wings allowed." Applejack said sternly.

"No wings?" Rainbow said before she kicked Applejack off her. "No problem."

They both spat on their hooves and shook. They both went their separate ways and the crowd broke up and dissolved, leaving me, Kodi, Twilight, and Spike by ourselves. Running of the Leaves? That's new.

"Hey Twilight, what's the Running of the Leaves?" I asked her.

"I read about it once. Apparently, it's one of Ponyville's traditions and its purpose is to shake the autumn leaves off the trees with the pounding of footsteps." Twilight explained. Leaves falling down from the pounding of footsteps? Oh that's right, ponies here can mess with weather, I totally forgot about it. But this Running of the Leaves sounds like a lot of fun.

"You want to compete in it, don't you?" Twilight guessed, with a smirk on her face.

"Well yeah, but I'm pretty sure it's Ponies only." I said sweat-dropping.

"Oh come on, who says that only ponies can race?" Kodi asked, smiling at me. Actually, he's right...ah, what the heck? I'll enter the race.

"Kodi's right, I will compete in the Running of the Leaves! As long as I don't get in the way of Applejack's and Rainbow's rivalry." I said smiling.

"Well, we wish you good luck Ren!" Spike said, giving me a thumbs up. I gave back a thumbs up as well as Kodi jumped for joy saying 'I want to compete in it too!"

"Hmm, I guess I could try talking to Mayor Mare about it." Twilight said smiling softly at me. "But anyway, I wish you two good luck on the competition tomorrow." Twilight said.

Me and Kodiak nodded our heads to her as the sun started to go down. Time sure flies here, huh? Oh well, doesn't matter, what matters is the race tomorrow, and something tells me this race will be surprising.





The Next Day

Me and Kodi woke up and headed towards where the Running of The Leaves was going to be held.

“Welcome to the annual Running of the Leaves!” We saw Pinkie Pie above us in a hot weather balloon. Wonder how she came to be an announcer? “This is Pinkie Pie, your official eye-in-the-sky announcer! As everypony knows, the running is a very important tradition, for without it, the autumn leaves of Equestria would never fall. So get ready, ponies. The Running of the Leaves will begin in five minutes.”

“Do you think that one of us will win?” Kodi asked curiously.

“Hmm, well I don’t know, but it’s just for fun, remember?” I asked, smirking at the little puppy.

“Yeah, but not to Dashie and Applejack.” Kodi commented.

“Yeah, that too.” I agreed. Let’s see which one of our favorite stubborn mares will win this competition.

As soon as we arrived to the place, we saw many ponies with different numbers on their flanks. We went over to sign up and turns out, they didn’t mind if I wasn’t a pony and it’s for everyone to enjoy. Me and Kodi received our numbers for the race and headed for the starting line. We even noticed Applejack, who was stretching her back. She then turned around and noticed me.

“Ren? Kodiak? I didn’t know you two were going to run too.” She said, surprised to see us.

“Yeah well, I want to compete in it, you know, I do want to know more about Equestria. And what better way is going through the Running of the Leaves.” I said happily.

“Yeah, I want to compete in it as well.” Kodiak said happily.

“Well…good luck to you, partners.” Applejack said, smiling back at us.

“Pardon me, excuse me!” We turned around to see Rainbow Dash walked through with the number eleven on her flank. She held her nose in the air as she boasted “Make way for the Iron Pony!”

“The Iron Phony, you mean!” Applejack responded, losing her smile and gave Rainbow a stink-eye.

“So Applejack! You ready to win….2nd place?” Rainbow said, smirking as she fluttered in place.

“I’m ready to run a good clean race.” Applejack corrected her.

“And didn’t Applejack said that you couldn’t use your wings?” Kodi reminded her.

“Yeah, yeah.” Rainbow scoffed as she alighted to the ground. “I could win this race with both wings tied behind my back.”

Applejack had a seductive look on her face. She grabbed a rope nearby and literally tied Rainbow Dash’s wings, making sure she is unable to fly. “Trussed up like a turkey. Well, a turkey who can’t fly, that is.”

“Very funny.” Rainbow said, sarcastically.

“Um, do you realize that turkeys can’t fly, right?” I reminded her, which made Applejack glare at me. “I’ll…stop talking now.” I said, smiling sheepishly.

Soon, we heard trumpets sounded throughout the area. “Racers! Please take your positions!” We heard Pinkie announce.

Suddenly, Spike came out of nowhere, in front of us, and called out to Pinkie. “Um…Pinkie Pie?”

“Hey, Spike! What's up? Oh wait, it me, I'm up!" Pinkie laughed.

"Uh, yeah. I know you're doing the announcing today and stuff and... I'm sure you're gonna do a great job and all, but... I was just wondering..."

"What?"

"Aw... Forget it." Spike began walking away, but Pinkie Pie called after him.

"Spike! Would you like to be my co-reporter? We could comment on the action together."

"We could?" Spike replied, excited.

"Climb on up." Pinkie Pie tossed a rope, which Spike grabbed and began climbing on to the balloon.

Huh…Spike’s lucky that Pinkie allowed him to become co-announcer. Oh well, no time to think about that, time to race!

Applejack, Rainbow, Kodi, and I readied ourselves into our positions, but all of a sudden, a familiar purple unicorn jumped into the starting line with us.

“Twilight? What are you doing here?” Kodi asked, surprised to see her here.

“I’m racing.” Twilight responded with a smile, provoking a derisive laugh from Rainbow.

“Good one, Twilight!” Rainbow said, laughing at her.

“I don’t think she’s joking, Rainbow.” I commented.

“Exactly!” Twilight added, keeping her positive mood.

“W-what?! But…Twilight, you’re not an athlete, you’re a…well, you’re a egghead!” Rainbow exclaimed. This caused me to raise a brow at him, egghead? What does that even mean?

“I am not an ‘egghead’, I am well-read.” Twilight scoffed.

“Egghead!” Rainbow whispered, which made Applejack chuckled.

“Okay, but have you ever run a race?” Applejack teased.

“Well, no…But I do know a lot about running!” Twilight replied. This caused me to give her a blank expression. Seriously? I know she couldn’t go do anything due to her reading books but…come on!

“And you know this from…?” Rainbow dragged the question as she already know the answer.

“Book!” Twilight responded, ignoring their teasing chuckles. “I’ve read several on the subject.”

Rainbow and Applejack continued snickering, causing me and Kodi to frown at them teasing Twilight like that.

“What’d you read, ‘The Egghead’s Guide to Running’? Did you stretch out your eye muscles to warm up?” Rainbow laughed, even causing Twilight to sigh and became annoyed as well. “Get it? Eye muscles.”

“Hey, leave her alone, girls. Will you let her race?” I asked, giving them a stern look.

“Yeah, give Twilight a chance already!” Kodi backed me up.

“Thank you Ren and Kodi.” Twilight thanked, confidently before turning to Rainbow and Applejack. “Anyway, scoff if you must, Rainbow. But the Running of the Leaves is a Ponyville tradition, and since I’m here to learn, I’ve decided I should experience it myself.”

“Well, I think that’s just dandy, Twilight. Good luck.” Applejack snickered.

“Yeah. See you at the finish line…Tomorrow.” Rainbow said before she and Applejack started laughing.

I rolled my eyes at them and turned to Twilight. “Don’t listen to them Twilight, I know you’ll do your best.” I said, encouraging her.

“Thanks Ren.” Twilight said, smiling at me. “At least somepony appreciates me participating in this race!”

“Well, I wish you good luck, Twilight.” Kodi said, smiling at Twilight. Suddenly, we overheard Pinkie announced something.

“Alright, ponies, are you ready?”

“Get set.” Spike added.

We all took our position as the drums started rolling. I haven’t run that much back when I was kid, but I’ll give it my all.

“GO!!!”

Suddenly, the bell finally rung and we took off.

“And they’re off!” I heard from Pinkie. “Welcome to the official coverage of the Running of the Leaves!” Pinkie announced as she hovered above us in her balloon. “You know, Spike, despite its name, the leaves don’t do any of the actual running. No, that’s left to My Little Ponies.” My Little Ponies? Strange, that almost kinda sounds like the name of a TV show or something.

“Why, yes, Pinkie, it’s the running of the ponies that causes the leaves to fall.” Spike responded.

Many leaves from the trees fell as we continued running through. “Ugh. Those lazy, lazy leaves. But this year, the run is about more than the weather…” Pinkie brought up. “It’s about the race to the finish, and two particular runners aiming to win it: Applejack and Rainbow Dash!”

Applejack was in the lead by a few inches so far, with Rainbow Dash behind her. Me and Kodi were trailing behind of them, but I was pretty close. I couldn’t see Twilight, she must have been somewhere behind me.

“You know Pinkie, these two ponies have a bit of a grudge match they’re trying to settle.” Spike added. “Trying to prove who’s the most athletic!”

“Yes, and ‘grudge’ rhymes with ‘fudge.” Pinkie said happily, causing me to raise a brow.

“Yes it…does. What?” Spike asked, giving her a confused expression.

“And I like fudge! But if I eat too much fudge, I get a pudge, and then I can’t budge!”

“So…no fudge?” Spike asked.

“Oh, no thanks. I had a big breakfast. Let’s check in with our two competitive ponies, Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Having come fast out of the gate, Applejack and Rainbow Dash are evenly matched running neck in neck. But what’s this? Applejack is making a move, she’s now ahead by a nose. But Rainbow Dash pulls at Applejack’s have-it and takes the lead. She’s ahead by half a nose. Or maybe three quarters of a nose. No, about sixty-three point percent of a nose…Roughly speaking. Applejack sees this move and pushes forth with her strong workhouse legs slinking ahead by three hundred fifty noses!” Pinkie described exactly what was going on between the two.

“Why is Pinkie talking about noses?” Kodi asked, running next to me.

“I…have no idea.” I said, sweat-dropping. Sometimes, I wonder what goes on in Pinkie’s head, but something tells me its best not to know.

Only a few feet away from them both, I continued running, trying to balance myself to where I could eventually pass them. Applejack looked behind at Rainbow Dash and muttered something. Rainbow Dash glanced at her wings, then over to Applejack. Oh no, please don’t tell me that she’s-

“Ho-hold your horses, Pinkie! Rainbow Dash is catching up to the frontrunner Applejack!” Spike exclaimed.

“What an upset. I thought Applejack had this in the bag.” Pinkie said.

“You didn’t think I was gonna let you off that easily, did you?” Rainbow Dash shouted, tying with Applejack ahead of me and Kodiak.

Applejack had her concentration on Rainbow Dash, but she accidentally tripped on a rock, falling to the ground while Rainbow Dash continued. Me and Kodi stopped and called over to Applejack.

“Applejack, are you alright?” Kodi asked in worried.

“I’m fine! Don’t worry about me, you two! Keep going!” She yelled back.

“You got it!” I added, with a smile. We then noticed the large crowd of ponies catching up. Me and Kodi looked at each other and nodded, and continued to run after Rainbow Dash. The distance between Rainbow Dash, Kodi, and I had significantly grown when I stopped for Applejack. When I had her in my sight, she looked back and laughed.

“Good luck trying to catch me, Ren and Kodiak!”

Me and Kodiak just smirked and continued to concentrate on the race. Rainbow Dash stuck out her tongue and purposely lowered her speed. At this point, I took her bragging for an advantage and increased my acceleration, which in a matter of seconds, me and Kodiak passed her while she was having her eyes closed, for the sake of showing off. Huh, I never knew I can run this fast, well my mom did say I was quite energetic so it makes sense…I think. As soon as Dash opened them again, she dropped her jaw.

“Huh?!” She shouted, surprised. I continued running, lowering my speed by just a pinch to save up some energy.

“Woo-hoo! We’re in the lead!” Kodi exclaimed, lowering his speed as well.

“I don’t believe it. After a huge setback, Applejack is back at the front of the pack, and Ren and Kodiak managed to beat them both! What an amazing move!” Spike’s voice exclaimed.

“She’s the head of the pack, all right. The pick of the litter! The cat’s pajamas! Oh wait, why would Applejack take some poor kitty’s PJ’s? That’s not very sporting of her.” Pinkie exclaimed.

“Oookay…let’s get back to the race.” Spike said, not wanting to go any farther with her. Trust me, if I ever question Pinkie’s randomness, I would probably just pretend that she’s not crazy.

“Not so fast, Applejack! This race isn’t over yet!” I heard Rainbow Dash exclaimed. Hmm, it sounds like Applejack has finally caught up to Rainbow Dash.

“It is for you. Heh.” I overheard Applejack said.

“Whoa.”

After that, I didn’t hear Rainbow Dash anymore, I wish I could look back but I need to concentrate on this race.

“Welcome back, Ponyvillians, it’s me, Pinkie Pie.” Pinkie announced a while later.

“And Spike! looks like Rainbow is doing her best to catch up.” Spike added.

“I’m not sure how ketchup is going to help her in this contest. Now, in a hot dog eating contest it can make them doggies nice and slippery, but personally I prefer mustard. How about you, Spike?”

“Uh…I…like…pickles?” Spike offered

“Aaand it looks like Applejack has found herself in quite a pickle as Rainbow overtakes her.” Pinkie said, returning her attention back to the race.

“Look,  ma, no wings.” I overheard Rainbow and it seems like she caught up to Applejack again. I had passed through a forest, quickly dodging a branch that stood in the way by sliding underneath it and continuing to run. Me and Kodiak had passed through a forest, I quickly dodged a branch that stood in the way by sliding underneath it and continuing to run. Since Kodi is still a puppy and small, he went underneath the branch a-okay.

“As the racers enter Equestria’s Whitetail Wood, Rainbow Dash is back in the lead, but Ren and Kodiak still has first place!” Spike announced. Whitetail woods? Wonder why its called that?

“Ren, what’s going on back there?” Kodi asked, as we began hearing some grunting sounds and arguing.

“Don’t know, but we need to keep going!” I exclaimed, which Kodi nodded back to me.  I continued to focus ahead while a little while later, I heard some hooves land and gallop behind me, almost close to me.

“You know, this place looks nice.” Kodi said gazing at the scene while keeping up to my pace.

“I know, I’m glad that I decided to partake in this competition.” I agreed with him. Whitetail Woods seems like a very nice forest, better than the Everfree Forest.

Soon after, Kodiak and I had just finished passing through an area with two paths. There was an arrow with a sign pointing to go right. I maneuvered right and continued galloping, hearing much more noise me behind me and Kodi. Seriously, what the heck is going on back there?!

Suddenly, Rainbow had managed to catch up behind me and shouted “You’re not going to get away with first place, Ren and Kodi!” I glanced at her and saw that the rope around her was gone.

“What the heck?! I thought Applejack said no flying!” I exclaimed.

“No, I said no wings!” I overheard Applejack exclaimed behind me.

“I must say, Spike, that this has been the most interesting Running of the Leaves in Equestria history!” Pinkie announced as we passed through the trees containing buckets. Looks like the ponies here are collecting sap, probably to make something delicious.

“With the most interesting announcing.” Spike added.

“But it isn’t the running that’s been fascinating. It’s the lack of running!” Pinkie said. Wait, lack of running? I then heard more grunts formed behind. Guess everypony back there must be tired out, but then I felt a sudden heavy wind blow my hair, which soon died down. What was that all about?

“R-ren, I can’t keep going!” Kodi said, almost running out of breath.

“Don’t give u-up Kodi!” I exclaimed. Great, I’m almost running out of breath as well. We can’t lose, we can do this! “We can…do…this!” I exclaimed as we began picking up the pace.

“Once again, Rainbow Dash and Applejack are neck in neck, jockeying for position.” Pinkie exclaimed. “Applejack inches ahead, now it’s Rainbow, it’s Applejack, It’s Rainbow Dash, it’s Applejack-”

“Ren look, the finish line!” Kodi called out as we saw the finish line right in front of us. Was this it? Was I really going to be first?

I had a good, large distance between the crowd and me. I was almost there! The finish line was only several feet away from me! I started giving a final push to my running, however, I somehow tripped and landed on the ground, only a few feet away from the finish line. I could hear the crowd catching up to me.

“Ren!” Kodi exclaimed, worried now.

“Don’t worry about me Kodiak! Just keep running!” I yelled at him. Kodi hesitant at first before nodded his head. He then began running towards the finish line.

I tried to get up and run again, but I grunted in pain when my legs wouldn’t run anymore! I must have sprained something! I continuously tried to increase my speed, but I could only limp towards the finish line.

“Ouch!” Pinkie announced on the balloon. “Ren took a fall that will really affect him since he’s in first place, but it appears Kodiak is now in first place and heading towards the finish. But what’s this? All the other ponies are catching up to him!”

“C’mon Kodi! You can do it!” I yelled back to him, encouraging him. I continued to limp my way towards the finish line as well while Kodiak continue his way to it first. I continued to quickly limp towards the finish line and Kodiak running a little slower towards it due to us running too fast. I could feel the breath of the crowd of ponies behind me. I gave one last grunt and attempted to leap past the finish line. I then felt myself landing on the grass and closed my eyes, panting. I had no idea if me or Kodi made it or not.

After a moment, Pinkie Pie must have returned to Applejack and Rainbow Dash as she kept exclaiming “It’s Applejack, it’s Rainbow Dash, it’s Applejack, it’s Rainbow Dash-”

So did one of us really win? Did Kodiak won or not?

“Ren! Ren!” I heard Kodi’s voice. I opened my eyes slowly and saw him licking my face. “Are you okay?”

“Y-yeah…I think so.” I said getting back up. God, I’ll never run that fast anymore.

“I won!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“No, I won!” Applejack counteracted.

“You tied!” Spike announced, causing the two to gasp.

“TIED?!” They exclaimed.

“For first?” Applejack asked.

“For last!” Pinkie answered as she and Spike landed their balloon. This caused not only Applejack and Rainbow to widen their eyes in shock, but me as well? How the heck could they tie for last? I may have been so tired out, but I know nopony else went past us.

“T-then who won?!” Rainbow questioned, when we heard some hoofsteps and saw Twilight approaching us, a medal around her neck.

“You?!” Rainbow and Applejack asked in shock.

“Oh no, but I did win 5th place.” Twilight said. “Which is rather good as I’ve never run a race before.”

“Then…who won then?” I asked

“Fillies and gentlecolts!” Pinkie announced. “I present to you our winner: Kodiak the puppy!” Wait what?

Me and Kodiak eyes widened immediately when she said that. “Me? I won?” Kodi asked.

“He won?!” I repeated. My own pet puppy won the Running of the Leaves? Okay, that’s…quite shocking.

“Yep!” Pinkie responded while Spike placed two medals on my neck and on Kodi’s neck, and he also gave Kodi a trophy as well.

“Wait a minute, why am I getting a medal?” I asked.

“Oh, you came in second.” Spike replied.

“Oh.” I said, realizing that. “I see.”

“W-what? How’s that even possible?” Applejack asked.

“Yeah, I can understand Ren and Kodiak, but Twilight!” Rainbow added, pointing at Twilight. “She ran so slow, and looked at the scenery!”

“Exactly. I paced myself, just like my book said. Then at the end, when all the other ponies were worn out, I sprinted to the finish.” Twilight explained.

“I don’t believe it. Twilight, Ren, and Kodiak beat us.” Rainbow exclaimed, surprised.

“Well, with your horsing around, it was quite easy.” I added, agreeing with Twilight. “I can understand you two think you’re better than each other, but I say after this race, you two are both the Iron Ponies!”

“Yeah, even though you lost, you two were awesome back there!” Kodi said happily.

“You’re right, you guys. Our behavior was just terrible.” Applejack admitted.

“We weren’t very good sports.” Rainbow added.

“Sounds to me like an important lesson was learned.” Huh? That voice..it couldn’t be…

I then noticed everypony let out a gasp and bowed. We looked at where they were bowing and saw…

“Princess Celestia?!” We all exclaimed. Yep, in the flesh as Princess Celestia walked towards us.

“W-what are you doing here?!” Applejack asked as she, Dash, Twilight, Kodi, and I all bowed respectfully.

“Fall is one of my favorite seasons so I came here to celebrate the Running of the Leaves.” Celestia explained.

“Really? Mine too!” Kodi said, wagging his tail happily. Celestia let out a chuckle and rubbed Kodi’s fur, much to his joy.

“I’m sorry you had to see us being such poor sports, Princess.” Applejack apologized, with Rainbow nodding in apologetic agreement.

“That’s alright, Applejack, anypony can get swept up in the excitement of competition.” Celestia replied.

“It’s important to remember that the friendship is more important than the competition.” Twilight added.

“And no competition is worth losing a friend over.” I added as well.

“Exactly, you two.” Celestia agreed with me and Twilight before turning to Dash and Applejack. “Now, unfortunately as the two of you were so busy tricking each other instead of shaking down leaves, many of the lovely trees of Equestria are still covered.”

“Why Princess, I bet we could knocked down those leaves for you, lickety-split!” Applejack replied. She then gave Rainbow a smile and said “What do you say, friend, wanna go for another run?”

“I’d love to stretch my legs.” Rainbow agreed before zipping off, Applejack rearing and following after her.

We watched our two best friends as they ran through the trees, their friendship stronger than ever.

“It’s nice to see them get along once again.” I said before wincing in pain.

“Ren.” Kodiak came to my side as soon as I sat down on the floor. Oh man, I forgot about my aching leg.

“Oh by the way.” Celestia turned me with a soft smile. “Congratulations on achieving first place Kodiak, and second place, Ren.”

“…Thank you  Princess Celestia.” I said smiling towards her.

“Yeah, we couldn’t have done it without each other.” Kodiak said licking me on my cheek, much to my joy.

Celestia smiled and said “That’s fantastic. You two did amazing throughout the whole race.”

“You…watched us the whole time?!” I asked in shock.

“Of course..your friend was with you, every second of the race.” Celestia chuckled. Me and Kodiak looked at each in surprise before letting out a laugh and smiled at each other.

“Your concentration and being focused on a single goal is what brought you to achieving it. You two didn’t give in nor surrendered to Rainbow Dash’s…comments..though sufering a minor unfortunate accident, you still managed to pass the finish line a second before anypony else.” Celestia explained.

“Wow…” I said. Though, I still can’t believe that my own pet dog won the race while I came second. “Well, thank you, Princess.”

The princess nodded before moving her horn towards my leg   and used her magic. My leg felt different afterwards, and as I shook it, there wasn’t anymore pain! It’s like I never twisted my leg at all.

“Let this experience by your motivation to continue to work hard to achieve your goals.” Celestia told me, giving me and Kodi a heart-warming smiles.

“Thanks Princess Celestia.” I said happily as I got back up on my own two feet.

“It’s so nice to meet you again Princess Celestia!” Kodi said happily.

“Yes, it was nice meeting you too, Kodiak.” Celestia said. “Anyway, I’ll see you soon, Ren! For now, I must speak with Twilight.”

“Okay..goodbye Princess Celestia.” I responded and bowed. As she began to walk away with Twilight to talk to her, privately. I then realized something. “Oh right, Princess Celestia, wait!”

“Hmm?” She and Twilight turned to me with confusion. “Yes?”

“I forgot to ask you something, I was wondering if you find anything that can send me back home?”I asked, feeling excited if I hear any good news.

Unfortunately, Princess Celestia made a sad smile and said “I am sorry Ren, but I haven’t found one yet. I have to bring you bad news upon hearing this.”

I then became a little sadden to hear that, but then made a soft smile. “I see, well sorry for disturbing your time.”

“It’s quite alright, thank you for reminding me that.” Princess Celestia said nodding to me. Soon enough, she and Twilight walk away and probably headed back home. The crowd had soon vanished when everything was over. Oh well, there’s always next time.





Later

Me and Kodiak soon started to head back home, with me carrying Kodi’s trophy and the medal around my neck and Kodi’s gold medal hung around his neck.

“That was awesome Ren!” Kodi said happily. “I actually won the competition, isn’t that surprising?!”

“Yeah, even I was taken by surprise. Imagine the news cover.” I said before adding “‘Little pup wins the gold from the Running Of The Leaves’!”

Soon enough, we started laughing as we were almost back to the home-ship.

“Hey Ren…do you sometimes think about your family?” Kodi asked. That caused me to be surprise for him to ask something like that. I then turned to him with a soft smile.

“Well yeah Kodi, I do sometimes think about them, and sometimes…I wonder what’s happening back in my world, they’re probably looking for me.” I said sadly.

“Well I’m sure your family really misses you, and once she finds a way to bring you back, your family will be happy to see you again.” Kodi said.

“Y-yeah, I guess you’re right.” I said smiling back at him. “And also, they’ll also be happy that I made so many friends and that I found a talking dog.” I added, which made Kodi blushed lightly.

“Do you think your family will like me?” He asked.

“Yeah of course, my family is the best family in the whole wide world!” I commented. “So I’m sure they’ll accept you, but you should maybe you should keep quiet so that they won’t know that you can talk.”

“Oh…okay.” Kodi nodded as we finally made it back home. It was kinda nice for Kodi to remind me about my family. I just hope that wherever we are…we’ll still be here in our hearts.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 12 - Call of The Cutie
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ahh, Friday. I always love Fridays since you can relax and enjoy yourself the whole weekend, well back when I went to school back then in my world, now I can relax whenever. I was busy playing Street Fighter IV on my Xbox One, playing my favorite character, Ryu. He's one of my favorite characters in the Street Fighter Series and the first of the ten best fighters I love in this game.

Well, it's been a week since the Running of The Leaves, and Kodi been boasting about the winning the trophy all week. I feel like Rainbow has been rubbing off on him.

"So...what's this game about again?" Kodi asked looking confused at the screen.

"I told you Kodi, it's called Street Fighter, a fighting video game and the best game I ever gotten from my birthday." I said, focusing on the game. I was in Story Mode as Ryu and was focusing on the battle with Ken.

"Really? But...why are people in this game fight with each other?" Kodi asked.

"Oh, either to just have fun with each other, or forced do when the rivals don't want to listen to you." I explained as I finally finished Ken off with a Hadouken! I got up from the floor and raised my fist in the air. "YES!" I exclaimed, which made Kodi flinch a little upon that.

"Gee, you're really excited about winning, huh?" Kodi asked. Dang straight! I'm like..the master of all games. People back home should've call me the Ultimate Gamer back then, because that would be the best title ever!

Suddenly, I heard a knock on my door, which caused us to turned to the door. Huh? Who could that be? I saved my game and turn my Xbox one as me and Kodi walked over to the door and opened it, revealing Applejack.

"Howdy, Ren, Kodiak." Applejack greeted with a smile.

"Oh hey Applejack, what's up?" I asked.

"Oh, you see, I need you to do a favor for me, if you're willing to help, that is."

"Sure, I can do it, what is it?"

"Well, do ya mind if ya pick up Apple Bloom from school? I kinda got my hooves tied up with harvesting apples, Big Mac's is making another delivery out of town, and Granny Smith is taking a nap...again, and all my friends are busy today. So...I'm kinda out of options." Applejack explained.

"Don't worry Applejack, we can pick her up from school." I said, agreeing with Applejack's favor.

"Yeah, I do want to see how Apple Bloom is doing." Kodi added.

"Thanks Ren, Kodi, I knew I could rely on you two." Applejack smiled before heading out. Oh well, I guess I can finish my game and go watch a movie once I'm done picking Apple Bloom up from school.

"So...we're going to pick up Apple Bloom from school?" Kodi asked, repeating what Applejack had said to me.

"Yeah, I haven't seen her since the..." I shivered upon remembering that time that I got turned into a girl. "The Poison Joke Incident." Soon, I heard Kodi snickering upon hearing that. I made a stern expression at him and said "No, stop that Kodiak! Don't laugh at me!"

"S-sorry, it's just so funny seeing you turn into a girl." Kodi said, causing me to roll my eyes. I just wish that memory would disappear for good.





We arrived to the school and waited outside for Apple Bloom to come out. As we waited, I observed the scenery of the school. The red flag danced with the breeze as a statue of a pony rose proudly above it. They even had a playground with different kind of rides in it, just like any school would have.

"Wow...so this is a school, huh?" Kodi asked, looking around the place.

"Hmm-mm, it's a place to learn many things, trust me, I've been to school once, I'm still even in high school." I replied, but I rather not talk about my time during the tenth grade, it's kinda awkward to a talking dog, no offense.

Just then, we heard the school bell ring as school was just getting out, as many schoolponies run out as they headed out home, but not before they noticed me and Kodi.

"Hey, isn't that 'hoo-man' person everypony is talking about?"

"What's up with that megaphone behind his back?"

"Ooh, it's a puppy!"

"He looks strange, in a good way."

"Huh...he looks cool. I like him." I blushed lightly upon the nice compliments those kids were saying about me. Kodi wagged his tail happily as one of the schoolponies petted him before running off.

I then saw Apple Bloom coming out, walking next to a cream colored earth pony filly with a curly red mane, wearing a pair of purple glasses. I waved them over, but I saw Apple Bloom looking a little bit miserable.

"Hey Apple Bloom, what's wrong?" I asked, surprising Apple Bloom and her friend.

"Ren, Kodi, what are you two doing here?" She asked.

"Applejack asked me and Kodi to go pick you up from school." I told her before repeating my previous question. "What's wrong?"

"Yeah, you seem pretty sad.." Kodi said nuzzling Apple Bloom, which made smile softly.

"Oh, sheth's being picked on in classth." The other filly said, but she got some of her spit on my face, not that I mind. "She wasth caught pasthing a note, but Diamond Tiara didn't write anything and made fun of her not having a cutie-mark." The filly explained.

"I...see.." I said, wiping the spit off my face. "So you're having bully problems." I said, gently patting Apple Bloom's head. "Don't let a bully's words bring you down. They do that to get attention and make themselves feel better over some kind of insecurity. Trust me, I was bullied a lot back from my times."

"R-really?" Kodi, Apple Bloom, and the other filly asked.

"Yeah...but I got over it, and learned that its best to ignore them or turn their smart remarks back at them." I said with a smile.

"Well not Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon." Apple Bloom grumbled. "They're rich and can do anything, even cause trouble."

"Ooooh...so you have two bullies and they're rick kids?" I guessed, which Apple Bloom nodded in agreement. I felt bad for her as I gave her a hug and Kodiak lick her, which made her cheer up a little. "Well like I said, just ignore them. They'll get bored of you at some point."

"I-I sure hope so...." Apple Bloom muttered. Still, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon? No offense, but those names sounds like objects than names to fillies.

"Urgh, what a boring lecture about cutie marks today." Huh? Who said that? We turned around to see two fillies walking out with a smug and arrogant aura about them. Both of them were earth pony fillies, one with a pink coat and a purple and white mane, wearing a diamond tiara on her head, the other with a gray coat and a silverish gray mane, wearing a pair of blue glasses. On the pink filly's flank was a diamond tiara, and on the gray filly was a silver spoon. I'm going to take a wild guess and say that those two are the bullies Apple Bloom were talking about.

You know, it's kinda ironic that their names match their cutie marks. If I remember correctly, Twilight told me that Cutie-Marks are known to bring out a pony's talents and such.

"I mean, why exactly should we learn about them when we already have ours?" The pink filly said in a snarky tone, as she glared at Apple Bloom.

"Knock it off, Diamond Tiara." Apple Bloom said, already fed up with her teasing.

"It's so sad how you and Twist are the only ponies without a cutie mark." Diamond Tiara teased. Before she could make fun of my two little pony friends, both her and the other pony, whose name must be Silver Spoon, noticed me and Kodiak behind them. "Oh hey, look at that, you're that weird creature and that talking mutt everypony has been talking about."

"I'm sorry, but I don't we've met." I said with a serious expression. "You must be Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, right?"

"Yes, that's correct." Silver Spoon replied.

"And the mean bullies Apple Bloom talked about?!" Kodi asked, growling angrily at them.

"Oh so you can talk, well, that's a surprise you dumb mutt." Diamond Tiara said in a snarky tone. Kodi gritted his teeth and was about to pounce at her, but I stopped him, shaking my head to not do it. "Besides, why should you care?" Diamond question, ignoring my stern gaze. "You're just some weird hairless oddball, with some stupid Megaphone that you somehow use."

"Yeah! And you don't have even have a Cutie-Mark!" Silver Spoon added, looking around my body. "I mean do your kind even have Cutie-Marks?

"No, we don't." I replied, which made the two rich bullies laughed, but I wasn't bothered by this. Like I said, just ignore them, besides, I learned to get to use to this back in Middle School. Oh well, at least they didn't call me a hairless ape.

"Wow, a talent-less and hairless ape who uses a megaphone as a weapon!" Diamond Tiara said, laughing alongside with Silver Spoon. Well, I spoke too soon.

"Hey, Ren is the coolest I've ever met! You take that back!" Kodiak barked.

"Yeah, Ren is the nicest human ever, you apologize on what you said!" Apple Bloom demanded.

"It's okay you guys, I got this." I said, calming my little pony friend and my little dog.

"Oh please, like he wants to be friends with a talking mutt and some blank flanks!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed.

"Blank Flanks?" I asked, looking down at Apple Bloom and Twist. Both of the fillies hid behind me, trying to cover their bare flanks. I guess being call a blank flank is some kind of insult.

"Sheth meansth isth isth that a Blank Flank isth a pony that don't have a Cutie-Mark." Twist explained. Ahh I see.

"Yep, and since you don't have one, even though you're not a pony, you're clearly a Blank Flank as well!" Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon started laughing again. Hmm, we'll see about that. I then smirked at the two rich bullies and stared at their cutie marks for a while.

"Umm...what are you doing?" Silver Spoon asked as she and Diamond Tiara stopped laughing and stare at me in annoyance.

"Oh nothing, it justs that I'm curious to know what your 'cutie-marks' mean?" I asked, much to their confusion.

"Well my cutie-mark means that I'm a beautiful princess." Diamond Tiara said with a smug grin.

"Oh really? Because a Diamond Tiara and a silver spoon cutie-marks...well to be honest, those aren't cutie-marks nor a talent, that sounds just like your names!" I said with a smug grin, much to their shock. "You know, I don't like seeing peo-I mean ponies bullying my own friends, you ever heard those who bully the weak are the cowards themselves?"

"S-So, like you can do better!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed.

"Yeah well...if I were you, I would stop bullying my friends, Apple Bloom and Twist or else I'll have Kodiak bite your butts off." I said with a smirk. Kodi made a smug grin and started barking at them, which made them back away from fear. Soon, Apple Bloom and Twist's spirits were lifted back up upon seeing me and Kodi backing them up.

"W-whatever, now if you excuse us, we have a party to go set up." Diamond Tiara said, much to my confusion.

"Party? What party?" I asked.

"Oh, you didn't know you talent-less loser? It's a party celebrating me and my fantastic cutie-mark. How could it not be?" And she didn't even listen to me when I told her and her friend that their cutie-marks were lame, did they?

"Bump! Bump! Sugar-lump, rump!" The two rich bully ponies announced in unison, doing their own cheer and laughing before leaving us.

“You two will never learn.” Kodi said, shaking his head in disappointment.

“Ain’t that the truth, Kodi?” I agreed with him there.

“Wow Mr. Ren.” The filly known as Twist spoke up. “You sthure are awesthome! And you sthowed Diamond Tiara and Sthilver Sthpoon.”

“Ahh, it was nothing, I was just teaching them a lesson on not bullying others.” I said, rubbing my head. “Besides, it was nice meeting you Twissisisiist…” I said, making Apple Bloom, Kodi, and Twist giggle as I tried to speak like the glasses wearing filly, only to get my tongue dried. “Ugh. Can’t pretend to have a lisp. Anyway, it was nice meeting you. Come on Apple Bloom, let’s go.” Apple Bloom nodded as we waved goodbye to Twist and headed back to Sweet Apple Acres.

While walking down the path towards the farm, I noticed Apple Bloom looking so sad and bummed out. Ahh, I see now.

“Hey Apple Bloom, what’s up?” I asked in concern.

“Nothing…it’s just that…they’re right.” Apple Bloom said sadly.

“Huh? What do you mean?” I asked her.

“That I will always be a blank-flank, she gets a cutie-mark and not me…it’s just not fair!” Apple Bloom exclaimed.

“Hey, don’t listen to her.” I said patting Apple Bloom's head. “I may not know much about Cutie-Marks, but Twilight told me that it’ll come when you discover what you’re really good at. So you have to be patient.”

“But I don’t wanna wait! I want my cutie-mark right now!” Apple Bloom said as she stomped her forehooves on the ground in anger.

“Apple Bloom, please be patient. Just remember, when the time is right, you’ll get a cutie-mark. Besides, you don’t want an object for a cutie-mark like those rick bullies, right?” I asked, raising a brow. Apple Bloom thought for a while until she shook her head.

“No…” Apple Bloom said sadly.

“Hey, don’t feel bad Apple Bloom, I know you’ll get a Cutie-Mark, you just gotta believe!” Kodi said as he licked Apple Bloom on the cheek, cheering her up again.

“Ahh shucks, you guys are making me blush.” Apple Bloom said, smiling happily.

“Anytime Apple Bloom…oh, we’re here.” I said as we finally arrived to Sweet Apple Acres. “Well, see ya later Apple Bloom.” I said waving goodbye to her.

“You too Ren, Kodiak!” Apple Bloom waved goodbye to us before going back to Sweet Apple Acres.

“You know…I kinda feel bad for Apple Bloom being picked on like that.” Kodi said, whimpering in sadness. I smiled softly and rubbed his head, cheering him up a little.

“Hey, don’t worry, she just needs to ignore them and they’ll soon get bored with their act and move on. Trust me, I know what its like to get bullied.” I said as I began to remember the times I got bullied back in my elementary and middle school days.

“Really?” Kodi asked.

“Yeah but, that was a long time Kodi, I’m fine. Now come on, let’s go have some lunch.” I said, making Kodi jump for joy. We began leaving Sweet Apple Acres and heading back to the home-ship. I sure hope Apple Bloom would follow my advice and be patient to get her Cutie-Mark one day.





The Next Day

Me and Kodi were taking a walk around Ponyville to see more of the place.

“You know, I wonder how Apple Bloom is doing. I sure hope she’s okay.” Kodi said in worry.

“Hey, don’t feel sad Kodi, you just have to relax. I’m sure Apple Bloom will be alright.” I said smiling at him, until we heard a buzzing sound up ahead of us.

“Hey, what’s that sound?” Kodi asked. We turned around to see a filly riding on a scooter, zooming in pretty fast and dangerously. Well at least she’s wearing a helmet in case she ends up falling.

Unfortunately, the filly began to veer out of control from the speed she was going, steering into a sizable rock that tripped her up. She screamed and flailed her legs about as she was flung into the air and landed…on me.

“OOOF!” Me and the filly fell down on the ground as we winced in pain from the impact. “Ow…”

“Oh sorry about that, mister.” The filly said.

“Ren, are you okay?!” Kodi asked, running towards my side. I got up slowly and dust myself before smiling and turning to Kodi.

“No need to worry Kodiak, I’m a-okay!” I said, giving him a thumbs up.

“Wait…Ren?” We looked back at the filly. She was an orange pegasus, her mane a dark purple, hiding underneath her blue and white helmet. “As in…Ren Loodan?” She asked excitedly.

“Yeah…Do I know you?”

“I-It is true, you are the Ren Loodan everypony is talking about!” She started bouncing around, squealing excitedly as if she was meeting with a popular celebrity.

“Ren, do you know this filly?” Kodi asked curiously.

“No…this is my first time meeting her.” I said confusedly.

“Wow, and it is true that you have a talking dog!” The filly looked at Kodi full of excitement, but Kodi hid behind me in fear.

“Y-yeah, so how do you know me?” I asked in confusion.

“I know everything about you!” She said, taking her helmet off and looked at me. Strange, her hair style almost kinda looks like Rainbow Dash’s except for the rainbow hair. “You helped Rainbow Dash and her friends defeat Nightmare Moon, save Ponyville from that mean old dragon, and also defeated The Great and Powerful Trixie!” She explained in joy. Don’t remind me of that boastful mare, she was annoying me and such anyway.

“Wow…you really admire me, don’t you?” I asked, rubbing my head.

“Well of course! Oh, my name is Scootaloo by the way!” The filly known as Scootaloo said.

“Oh, well it’s nice to me Scootaloo.” Kodi said, licking her face, much to her joy. Wow, who would’ve thought that I would get fans.

“So can I see it? That megaphone gun of yours?” Scootaloo asked.

“Huh? Oh you mean the Hacking Gun? Sure.” I shrugged as I brought out my Hacking Gun in front of her, much to her amazement.

“Cooooooool….How do you use Magic like that?” Scootaloo asked. “You’re not even a pony.”

“Well, you can say that I have my own magic.” I said winking at her.

“So wait….you’ve saved Ponyville many times before?” Kodi asked.

“Yeah, he’s awesome…but not as awesome as Rainbow Dash.” Scootaloo replied as I fell on my back comically. Okay, how are my skills not impressive as Rainbow Dash?

“How am I not as awesome as Rainbow Dash?” I asked, getting back up.

“You may be good at using that Hacking Gun, but Rainbow is so fast when she flies into the air!” I dropped my head in disappointment to hear that. Seems to me that she’s a big fan of Rainbow Dash, not me. “I hope I get a cutie-mark like hers, and someday be able to fly as her and be a Wonderbolt!”

“Good luck with that!” Kodi said happily as we watched Scootaloo ran back to her scooter and put her helmet back on, zooming off by using her wings to ride off.

“Hope she doesn’t hurt herself…if she wants to be like Rainbow Dash, then we’re gonna have a loooot of problems.” I said, which Kodiak nodded in agreement. But you know, I feel like I made a complete idiot of myself trying to impress that filly. Oh well, it would be nice to have some fans.

“Ren and Kodiak darlings, there you both are.” We turned around to see Rarity walking towards us.

“Oh hey Rarity, what’s up?” I asked, confused to see why she was looking for me and Kodi.

“Oh I need you both, there’s a little something I wished you both to see.” Rarity said wrapping us in her magic aura.

“W-whoa!” Kodi said, surprised to be floating in the air, but it was Rarity using her horn to wrapped us in her aura.

“Um…..Okay.” I shrugged.

“Good, come on!” She started walking back to the Carousel Bontique with us in tow. I didn’t want to admit it to her but she’s kinda forcing us to come besides allowing us to follow her.





As soon as we arrived to Carousel Boutique, much against our will of course, Rarity put us down as she made a gleeful expression.

“So, why did you bring us here, Rarity?” I asked her.

“Yeah, is something wrong?” Kodi asked, worriedly.

“Oh no darling, it’s not that.” Rarity said, still her gleeful expression. “Ren, do you remember when I promise you new clothes?”

“Yeah?” I asked, raising a brow.

“Well, I have finally finished those clothing's of yours.” Rarity used her horn and pulled something out of her closet, revealing 26 different kind of clothes for me. “Well, it took me a long time but I finally did it. So…do you like them Ren?”

I could only stare at them in shock and amazement that she would make all of this in day’s time. I could only smiled happily as I turned to Rarity and said “Like them? I love them! Thanks Rarity!”

Rarity could only blushed at my reaction as she said “W-well, quite true, I’m impressed of it myself as well.” I looked over the clothes and saw pajamas, clothes, coats, and suits.

“Wow Rarity, you must be so good with making clothes!” Kodi exclaimed in joy.

“Why thank you Kodiak.” Rarity thanked him by giving a bow. Suddenly, another voice called out.

“Rarity, there you are, I’ve been looking for-” We turned around to see a white pony who seemed to a lot similar to Rarity, except she had light purple and pink hair. “Um….hello.” She seems surprised of my appearance because I’m not a pony.

“Um…hello, my name is Ren Loodan, what’s your name?” I asked her, but I noticed the faint red on her cheeks.

“Oh Ren, this is my little sister, Sweetie Belle.” Rarity introduced her sister, Sweetie Belle, to me.

“Wow, I didn’t know you had a sister, Rarity.” I said, surprised to hear this.

“Well of course, you didn’t know?” Rarity asked.

Me and Kodi shook our heads upon not ever hearing her that she had a little sister. Rarity realized this and started to laugh nervously.

“I-I see now…oh well, anyway, what were you gonna say, Sweetie Belle?” Rarity asked, turning to her sister.

“Um, Rarity, it’s about the Cutie-ceanera….I don’t want to go.” Sweetie Belle sighed sadly, much to our confusion.

“Why not?” Kodi asked curiously. Sweetie Belle widen her eyes upon seeing Kodi talk, oh man, is this gonna keep on going on everypony we meet these days?

“Um….it’s just that….what’s the point of going to it if I don’t have a Cutie-Mark at all!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed. Now I see the problem, looks like Apple Bloom isn’t the only pony with a Cutie-Mark problem.

“B-but Sweetie Belle, just because you don’t have a cutie-mark, doesn’t mean you can skip out of the Cutie-ceanera.” Rarity exclaimed. I kind feel bad for her, she must be scared someone like Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon might make fun of her. I guess I could help. I walked over and whispered to Rarity.

“Don’t worry, lemme try.” I said, which made her confused on what I was going to do to help her out. I looked down at Sweetie Belle with a soft smile. “Hey, it’s okay Sweetie Belle, like your big sis said, just because you don’t have a cutie-mark, doesn’t mean you can skip out on the party. Would it make feel better if someone else would go with you?” I asked, implying for Sweetie Belle to allow me to come with her.

“Yeah, and I can come too to cheer you on!” Kodi said as he licked Sweetie on the cheek, which made her feel a little happy.

Sweetie Belle hesitate for a second before she let out sigh. “I-I guess so Mr. Loodan.” Sweetie Belle said, still feeling uncomfortable.

“Oh please, Mr. Loodan was my father, call me Ren.” I said happily, which made Sweetie giggle.

“I say Ren, that’s a wonderful idea, why not go to the Cute-ceanera with me and Sweetie Belle?” Rarity offered.

“Sure, when is it? Because I kinda forgot about it.” I said, rubbing my head in embarrassment.

“Well it’s tomorrow at noon, or so was I told.” Rarity said with a smile.

“Alright thanks Rarity, I’ll see you tomorrow.” I said as me and Kodi were about to leave until Kodi stopped me by pulling my pants with his teeth. “Hmm? What is it Kodiak?”

“Um…are you forgetting something?” Kodi said pointing at the clothes that Rarity made for me, as they were still in the closet. I widen my eyes upon remembering that.

“Oh right…totally forgot about that.” I said sweat-dropping. Once again, I made myself a complete idiot, even worse, in front of the girls as they started chuckling at me forgetting about the clothes.





The Next Day

Me and Kodi headed for the party down at Sugarcube Corner with Rarity and Sweetie Belle. You know, I just realize something, I feel like Pinkie throws a party for almost anything. The win against Nightmare Moon party, celebrating someone stopping a stampede of cattle party, stopping a rampaging Ursa Minor party, and welcoming Zecora and Kodiak party. Huh, guess partying such a hit here in Equestria. Ahh, who cares, it’s just a party, so let’s get to it!

While walking down to Sugarcube Corner, I decided to talk with Rarity.

“So Rarity, what have you been doing lately?” I asked, since I haven’t spend much time with the fashionista pony lately.

“Oh I’ve been preparing dresses for me and the girls for the upcoming Grand Galloping Gala.” Oh right, I totally forgot about that.

“What’s the Grand Galloping Gala?” Kodi asked.

“Oh it some event that happens in Canterlot. It’s suppose to be some sort of party or something.” I replied, shrugging my shoulders, only to be grabbed by Rarity who had a serious expression.

“Ren, it is not just some event, it is a fantastic royal event that every nobles around Equestria come together, and that’s where I’ll meet…him…” Oh boy, Rarity is daydreaming again.

“Him?” Kodi asked.

“She’s talking about Princess Celestia’s nephew, I think his name was Prince Blueblood.” Though I have my doubts this ‘prince’ is anything like Rarity said he was.

“Oooh, you just don’t know Ren and Kodiak. He’s the most handsome, the most eligible stallion in Canterlot. I can just imagine it…” Rarity said, still daydreaming. “Our eyes would meet, our hearts would melt! Our courtship would be magnificent-”

“Okay, okay!” I groaned. “Save it for the gala, we don’t need to know more about your daydreams!”

“Say…can I come?” Kodi asked, much to my surprise.

“I don’t know Kodi, but I’ll ask Twilight later if she can send a message to Princess Celestia to invite you.” I said, shrugging my shoulders.

“Good…because I can almost taste the delicious food in that gala…” Kodi let out his tongue as he began daydreaming about the food down at the Grand Galloping Gala. Jeez, people sure like daydreaming a lot here, huh?


As we arrived at the party, we were met with party-music and noise-markers being blown into our faces. Pinkie popping out of nowhere (as she normally does).

“Hi Rarity, Ren, Kodiak, and Sweetie Belle! Welcome to the party!” Pinkie shouted as she blew a party favor.

“Thanks.” I said as we entered the party and saw many fillies enjoying themselves.  Kodi and Sweetie Belle went off to go and have fun, and I have a feeling Kodi is going to eat some of the sweets in the party, but let’s just hope none of the food here are either fudge or chocolate because it’s poisonous to dogs. Though, it’s still weird how its poisonous to them but whatever.

“Hey Ren, Rarity!”  We turned around to see Twilight walking towards us.

“Oh hey Twilight.” I said as I noticed some cupcakes on the table, so I grabbed two and handed one to Twilight. “You here too?”

“Ha ha, thanks.” Twilight thanked me as she took a bite of it. After swallowing, she asked “I didn’t know you’ll be here.”

“Well I promise Rarity and Sweetie Belle that I can come with them after Sweetie Belle felt sad about not getting her Cutie-Mark.” I said, still feeling bad for the poor girl.

“Ahh, that’s nice.” Twilight said sweetly. “Oh by the way, have you seen Apple Bloom? She was just here a minute ago.”

“So she did come?” I asked in surprise. I looked around in hopes of seeing her but the place was packed so I could only see a few ponies I knew, and Kodiak as the fillies were amazed by his rare ability to speak and started petting him, not that he didn’t mind.

“Yeah, just a while ago, Apple Bloom begged me to use my magic for a cutie-mark. I tried but nothing worked, as I knew it would. I only hope she’ll be okay.”

“Well, I hope so too. I’ll go look for her.” I said. “Maybe I can cheer her up a bit.”

“Okay, enjoy the party.” Twilight called out.

I started peering around the place, hoping to find Apple Bloom, but no luck.

“Where did that filly go?” I muttered, until I noticed a purple tail from behind the counter. Huh? Wait a minute, why does that color feel so familiar to me? I went over there, only to find Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo hiding. “Huh? Sweetie Belle? Scootaloo?”

“Get down!” They both exclaimed in unison as they grabbed my on the front collar and forced me to hide behind the counter with them.

“Yipe!” I screamed as I was slammed onto the ground real hard. I get up and saw them peering over the counter. “What’re you guys doing?”

“We’re hiding from everypony!” Scootaloo exclaimed.

“So nopony sees our blank flanks.” Sweetie Belle whispered back. “Especially Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.” Ahh, now I see.

“So you’re hiding because you don’t want to be make fun of?” I asked, which the two fillies nodded. “Well you don’t have to be afraid of who you are, you know.”

“What do you mean, Ren?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“You see, just because someone is better than you, doesn’t mean you can’t prove them wrong. You girls need to be yourselves and besides, you two have something in common.” I said as I pointed at their flanks and said “You two don’t have cutie-marks, and it seems that you guys were starting to get along.”

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked at each other and realized that I was right.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right.” Scootaloo said smiling at me.

“Hmm-mm! I guess we do have something in common.” Sweetie Belle added.

“Good…” I said as I got up and dust myself before turning myself to the two fillies. “Because I know another pony who have the same problems like you.” I looked around in hopes of finding Apple Bloom, but then I finally found her, and she was…wearing a table cloth as a dress? Okay, that’s weird, maybe she’s wearing that in hopes no one, especially those two rich brats, see her with a blank flank. As Apple Bloom was trying to walk away, she tripped ad caused the cloth to fall of her hips, revealing her cutie markless flank. “And…cue the rick bullies acting like jerks, typical.”

“Oh wow! What an amazing cutie mark!” Diamond Tiara said sarcastically. “Nice try, blank flank!”

Scootaloo growl in anger as the Pegasus filly was unable to handle the two bullies heckling anymore. “HEY! You got a problem with blank flanks?!”

Scootaloo crawled out of the counter, along with Sweetie Belle, as both fillies were getting sick and tired of being pushed around.

“Yes, cause they aren’t special.” Silver Spoon said.

“No, that’s wrong!” I exclaimed as pointed my finger at Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, and soon, everypony turned to me in confusion, wondering what I was doing. “You’re saying that someone with no cutie-mark isn’t special? Well, if Apple Bloom isn’t special, then I guess these two fillies aren’t either.” Both fillies turned to their sides, showing off their blank flanks, which made Apple Bloom gasp in surprised. “I beg to differ, Diamond Tiara. I believe that these three fillies do have something special, and the best part is, they can be whatever they want.”

“Yeah! Like be a story writer!” Sweetie Belle said.

“Or a daredevil!” Scootaloo added.

“But not a some stuck up pony who like to fun of others because they don’t have cutie marks. In fact, this is supposed to be a ‘cute-ceanera.’ Aren’t we supposed to see your cutie-mark and not a veil that hides it?” Diamond Tiara growled angrily at me. “And what’s your special talent again? Oh right, it’s supposed to be a ‘diamond tiara’, right? Does that mean you’re a spoiled little princess who whines to get what she wants?”

“Oooh, nice one Ren!” Kodi called out.

“And besides, I sometimes think that my video game skills and my art skills are consider a talent of mine, but I don’t show that off to anyone because I was afraid! But after meeting Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo, I realize that I shouldn’t be afraid of who I am!” I exclaimed, which made Diamond Tiara angry as she charged at me, but I side-stepped out of the way, which caused her to slip and hit a nearby table, and caused a punch bowl to drop on her, ruining her dress.

“Oh….boy…” I muttered upon seeing that.

“Ahh! My dress! You’ll hear about this from my daddy!” Diamond Tiara shouted in anger as she stormed out of her own party, her friend and counter-parting chasing after her with some napkins to day her friend’s dress.

“Um….sorry?” I called out to her, but she just growl at me, and now I have someone else that hates me. Oh well, too bad. I turned around and saw everypony clapping and cheering for me. I guess everypony here hated Diamond Tiara, well it makes sense since she is a wienie little princess.

“Ren!” I turned around to see Kodiak. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo, along with Twilight, Applejack, and Rarity. Kodi jumped onto my arms and started licking me.

“That was so cool!” Kodi said, still licking me on the face. I chuckled as I hugged him back.

“Thanks for standing up for me!” Apple Bloom thanked me.

“You were so awesome!” Scootaloo complimented.

“Yeah, and so amazing!” Sweetie Belle added.

“It was a very nice thing you did for them, Ren.” Twilight commented. “And I think Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon won’t be teasing anypony for a while.”

“Thank ya kindly for standing up for little sis, Ren.” Applejack thanked.

“Anytime Applejack.” I said, smiling at her.

“Oh Ren, you were so brilliant.” Rarity said, smiling towards me. “And I think these little ponies learned a little something.”

“We sure did!” Apple Bloom said before adding “We’re gonna find out Cutie-Marks together!”

“Totally!” Scootaloo agreed.

“Count me in too!” Sweetie Belle volunteered.

“Oh wait, we’ll need a name for this group!” Apple Bloom insisted.

“The Cutie Mark Three?” Scootaloo offered.

“The Cutastically Fantastics?” Sweetie Belle suggested.

“Hmm…Oh I know!” Everypony looked at me as I said “How about…The Cutie Mark Crusaders?

The fillies thought for a while until Apple Bloom spoke up. “It’s perfect!” Apple Bloom and the two other fillies nodding their heads in agreement. “The Cutie Mark Crusaders! Friends till the end!”

The three fillies hoof bumped as they cheered, which made me smile happily at bringing these three ponies together.

“Wow, who would’ve thought that Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle would become friends like that.” Kodi said, smiling towards the three fillies. You know, they kinda remind of a Pokemon Team back in the Mystery Dungeon series and the anime series.

“Say Ren, why not join us?” Apple Bloom offered.

“Hmm….” I thought for a while until I made a smile. “Oh, what the heck? Why not!”

“Yay!” The three fillies cheered together.

“Oh wait, can I join too?” Kodi asked.

“Well I’m not sure if a dog like you Kodi can gain a Cutie-Mark.” Twilight said with a confuse expression. “Well…a talking dog, to be specific.”

“Well even so Twilight, I see why not for him to join the fun.” I said as I put down Kodi and the three fillies started petting him. “Now…let’s celebrate!” I exclaimed as I picked up a plate full of cupcakes and took one.

“Ren wait! Don’t eat-!”

I chomped down on the cupcake, which was the biggest regret I’ll do because I widen my eyes and spat the pastry out of my mouth.

“What the?! Seriously?! What the heck is wrong with this cupcake?!” I questioned, putting the plates of the offending pastries down. “Did Pinkie Pie accidentally burn them and give these out or something?!”

“No, that can’t be. Pinkie isn’t that type of pony to do something like that.” Applejack replied.

“Well…” We turned to Apple Bloom, who was giggling sheepishly while Sweetie Belle, Kodi, and Scootaloo giggled at my misfortune. “I tried getting a cutie-mark in baking cupcakes a while ago, and…it didn’t came out well.”

“…Yeah, you’re definitely not getting a cutie-mark in baking.” I stucked my tongue out, unable to get the burnt taste off my tongue. Twilight, Rarity, and Applejack giggled alongside with the fillies on my misfortune. Gee, thanks for the help you girls.

“Say wait Ren, didn’t you say you were good at playing video games and art?” Sweetie Belle asked. I nodded as I saw where this was going.

“Do you think you can teach us so that we can earn our Cutie-Marks please?!” The three fillies begged, giving me the puppy eye stare. Ah dang it.

“I guess…maybe sometimes later.” I said rubbing my head, which made the three fillies jumped for joy. “Anyway, let’s just get back to the party, and eat some cookies instead.” I said as we all decided to head back to the fun. You know, I feel like those three are gonna do some crazy things in order to get their Cutie-Marks. Oh well, I won’t stop them, they remind me of me. Now, let’s get these burned cupcakes out of here. I was planning on throwing these burn cupcakes away until Kodi stopped me.

“Wait Ren, can I have these?” Kodi asked.

“But Kodi, these are burned, besides, I think it’s chocolate.” I replied.

“Don’t worry, I can eat some, besides I don’t care if its Chocolate.” Kodi said, but I became surprised upon that last statement.

“Umm, Kodi, you do realize that chocolate and fudge are poisonous to dogs, right?” I asked, raising a brow.

Huh? What are you talking about? I once ate chocolate and fudge once when I was looking for a owner back then.” This caused me to looked at him in shock.

“S-so you’re saying….its okay to eat fudge and/or chocolate?!” I asked in shock.

“Yeah, you didn’t know that?” Kodi asked. I slowly turned to Twilight, who only blushed and smiled sheepishly. Oh, she has a lot of explaining to do about dogs here in Equestria.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 13 - Winter Wrap-Up
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A few weeks past since that party, and Twilight gave me a lecture and told me that she forgot to mention that dogs here don't die from eating chocolate or fudge. I was shocked, and yet amazed to here that. It's almost like Equestria is a paradise where death doesn't exist, and I'm starting to like this place.

I was sleeping peacefully with Kodiak sleeping on my bed with me when all of a sudden, a loud and rapid knocking noise startled me out of bed. In fact, it made me fall out of bed.

"R-Ren....." Kodi soon started to wake up and saw me fall off my bed. "Why are you sleeping on the floor?"

I rubbed my head and got up slowly, hearing the door knock again. "Oh good grief...." I exhaled a heavy breath and went over to put on my clothes. I was wearing those new pajamas Rarity gave to me few weeks ago, and I have to say, I like the way how she makes them. Since it was getting cold outside and it snowed last night, I had put on my orange coat, a blue scarf to cover both my nose and mouth, and a blue hat over my head to keep my hair from getting frostbite.

Kodi let out a yawn and noticed that I was putting on my coat. "Um, what are you doing?" He asked.

"Somebody knocked on my door, so I'm wearing this because its like freezing cold outside, besides, I do like to see what Ponyville looks like in the snow." I replied as soon as I got my mittens on. Soon afterwards, I got Kodiak to put on a scarf and finally, we headed towards and open it, revealing Twilight, who was smiling brightly and excitedly. I could even see Spike asleep on her back.

"Twilight, what is it?" I asked confusedly.

"Hi, Ren, Kodi! Guess what day it is?!" Twilight asked excitedly. I looked beside her and saw how much snow outside there was.

"Umm.....a snow day?" I shrugged my shoulders.

"No, it's Winter Wrap Up Day!" She responded, still smiling brightly and excitedly.

"Winter what day?"

"I've...don't think I've heard of that before." Kodi added, not hearing about that holiday. "I know that I've been in some parts in Equestria but I've never seen or heard about Winter Wrap-Up Day."

"Well then, c'mon!" She grabbed my hand and started pulling me, with Kodi following after us. "They're starting to pick teams, let's go!"

"O-okay Twilight, don't have to drag me all the way!" I said as I nearly tripped, besides teams? What is this Winter Wrap-up day? Some kind of sporting event or something?

We soon arrived to Ponyville, where everypony were gathered in town. I then noticed everypony wearing different colored vests, one was green, the other was blue, and the other I think its tan.

"So Twilight, how does this work?" I asked curiously, but the look on Twilight's face tells me that she was so excited about that her legs shifted in place hastily.

"H-huh? Oh sorry Ren, what was it?" Twilight asked, not hearing what I said.

"He asked about how does Winter Wrap-Up day works?" Kodi asked, repeating the question I asked her.

"Oh, you see, every winter in Equestria..." Twilight began her explanation. "All three pony tribes work together to set up spring." Oh right, because Ponies here can control weather, or so I was told. "So Winter Wrap-Up's split into three teams." Twilight then pointed to the team with the green vest, where Applejack was. "Applejack's team is the planting team, their job is to plant new crop." Next Twilight pointed to the blue vest team, where Rainbow Dash was at too. "Rainbow's Team is the weather team, where they have to blow off all the snow and help water the crops to make them grow." And finally, she pointed at the tan team, where Fluttershy was at. "And finally, the animal team where they have to wake the animals up from hibernation so that they can get up for spring."

"I see...." I said, fully understanding the situation, but there was one thing in my mind. "Hey wait, fall just ended, and winter just started, but now we're just about to start Spring? How did that happen?"

"Huh? W-what are you talking about R-ren?" Spike asked, sleepily. You know what? Never mind, I'll think about that later. Can't understand the logic here in this world.

"I think maybe this might fun." Kodi said, wagging his tail happily.

"Yeah but...I wonder which team vest I'll be wearing?" Twilight asked, looking around the place.

"I'll take a blue vest, same color as my blanket." Spike spoke, still sleepy from his nap. "Which I think I hear calling my name. 'Spike! Spike! Come to bed!' Ugh, it's too early." Looks like someone woke up from the wrong side of the bed.

"Thank you everypony, for being here bright and early!" We turned around to see Mayor Mare making an announcement. "We need every single pony's help to wrap up winter, and bring in spring!"

The whole crowd of ponies cheered loudly, exciting for this Winter Wrap-Up to begin.

"Now, all of you have your vests, and have been assigned to your teams, so let's do even better than last year, and have the quickest Winter Wrap Up ever!"

Well I don't have a vest, and so does Twilight, Spike, and Kodiak. But I'll see and check around the place on how they do it, just to be careful that I don't screw things up.

"Oh, this is so exciting!" Twilight said, still in her bright and positive attitude.

"Well me too, I do want to see how everypony here how they 'wrap up' winter." I shrugged while smiling.

"Alright everypony, find your team leader, and let's get galloping!" Mayor Mare pointed to a field, where Rainbow Dash and the others headed towards the field to begin their work.

"Oh wow, they're sure pumped up." Kodi said, surprised to see how enthusiastic everypony are.

"Oh gosh, where should I go?" Twilight asked, looking around.

"You...didn't get assigned for any of the teams, Twilight?" I asked curiously.

Twilight shook her head and said "No because I wasn't so sure to where I would fit in. What exactly does everypny do?" Twilight asked, feeling worried. Me and Kodi looked at each other, before smiling at each other.

"Well don't worry Twilight, we'll help ya!" I exclaimed, much to Twilight's joy.

"Really?!"

"Hmm-mm! We may not know so much about Winter Wrap-Up, but we'll help you!" Kodi added, agreeing to help Twilight.

"Yeah, besides, I am curious about Winter Wrap-Up, so we'll help you." I added, giving her a thumbs up.

Twilight smiled softly at us and said "Thank you guys. Now come on, let's get started!" Soon, we started to head out to meet up with the other teams. Soon after, everypony started singing about their Winter Wrap-Up.


(Rainbow Dash):
Three months of winter coolness
And awesome holidays...

Rainbow Dash began singing with a determined yet mournful tone.

(Pinkie Pie):
We've kept out hoovsies warm at home
Time off from work to play!

Pinkie hopped joyfully around the snow.

(Applejack):
But the food we've stored is running out
And we can't grow in this cold! 

Applejack joined, emphasizing the need for our confidence and togertherness.

(Rarity):
And even though I love my boots
This fashion's getting old.

Rarity finished, adding more of an opinion, but still motivated the persuasion of increasing the morale in a very secretive way.

We began walking through the snow, as we took a turn to the song as well.

(Ren):
The time has come to welcome spring
And all things warm and green

(Kodiak):
But it's also time to say goodbye
It's winter we must clean..

(Twilight):
How can I help? I'm new, you see
What does everypony do?


Twilight looked back up towards the sky, reaching int her thoughts for the plan she hoped to come up with.

(Twilight):
How do I fit in without magic?
I haven't got a clue!

The ponies near us all sang in harmony, including Fluttershy, Rarity, and another pony that I don't know but seems to be part of the green team.

(Choir):
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer!
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up! 

(Applejack):
Cause tomorrow spring-

(Rainbow Dash):
-Is here!

Rainbow Dash flew by her, finishing her sentence

(Rainbow Dash):
Cause tomorrow spring is here!

Rainbow Dash began singing as she and the other Pegasus ponies cleared up the skies.

(Rainbow Dash):
Bringing home the southern birds
A Pegasus' job begins
And clearing all the gloomy skies
To let the sunshine in
We move the clouds
And we melt the white snow!

(Pinkie Pie):
When the sun comes up
Its warmth and beauty will glow!

The sun's rays shined on Twilight and me, providing not only warmth, but a high sense of hope for us all

(Choir):
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Cause tomorrow spring is here
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Cause tomorrow spring is here
Cause tomorrow spring is here!

(Rarity):
Little critters hibernate
Under the snow and ice

Rarity began singing as the tan team rung bells and woke the animals from hibernation.

(Fluttershy):
We wake up all their sleepy heads
So quietly and nice

(Rarity):
We help them gather up their food
Fix their homes below

(Fluttershy):
We welcome back the southern birds
So their families can grow!

(Choir):
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Cause tomorrow spring is here
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Cause tomorrow spring is here
Cause tomorrow spring is here!

Applejack then began singing, lightly tapping the box of seeds near her.

(Applejack):
No easy task to clear the ground
Plant our tiny seeds
With proper care and sunshine
Everyone it feeds
Apples, carrots, celery stalks
Colorful flowers too
We must work so very hard

Big Macintosh and Apple Bloom joined in together

(Applejack, Big Mac, Apple Bloom):
It's just so much to do!

Little ponies were skipping and hopping with the bunnies while the blue team ponies shoveled snow off the rooftops.

(Choir):
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Cause tomorrow spring is here
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Cause tomorrow spring is here

(Pinkie Pie):
Cause tomorrow spring is here!

Pinkie sang as she skated on the frozen lake.

(Ren):
Now that we know what they all do
We have to find our place
And help with all of our hearts

(Twilight):
Tough task ahead we face
How will I do with my magic
Help the Earth pony way

(Kodiak):
We wanna  belong so we must

(Ren, Twilight, and Kodiak):
Do our best today,
Do our best today!

(Choir):
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer!
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!
Cause tomorrow spring is here
Winter Wrap-Up! Winter Wrap-Up!

(Twilight):
Cause tomorrow spring is here

(Kodiak):
Cause tomorrow spring is here

(Ren):
Cause tomorrow spring is here!



Soon after that whole song was finished, I saw Twilight, feeling undecided on where she should go to.

"Everypony belongs to a team." She said as she looked over to me and Kodi. "What should I do? Where should I go?"

"Don't worry, I'm sure you'll find the right team!" Kodi said in determination.

"Yeah, you just need to find which group will work out with your skills, and you'll be part of that." I added, much to Twilight's relief. While we decided to help out in Winter Wrap-Up and also to help find Twilight her place. One thing crossed in my mind.

"Where did that music come from anyway?" I muttered.

"Alright team, you're clear for takeoff!" We looked up to see Rainbow Dash, ordering her team to clear more skies.

"Hey, why not Rainbow Dash? Maybe she could help you?" I suggested.

"Yeah, maybe..." Twilight thought. "Rainbow Dash!" Rainbow Dash heard Twilight calling her and flew down to us.

"Oh hey Twilight, Ren, Kodi, what's up?" Rainbow asked.

"What are you doing?" Kodi asked, curiously.

"Sending off one of my flight crews to retrieve the birds that have flown south for the winter." Rainbow replied. Oh yeah, every winter, birds fly to the south until they come back to the north when its spring time.

"Oh, can I help?" Twilight asked. "How about if I help clear out the clouds?"

"Yeah, and I can use my hoverboard so that I can fly, just to let you know if that's gonna be a problem." I added with a smile.

"Um, Ren, only Pegasus ponies have the ability to touch clouds and Twilight can't help because she doesn't have any wings." Rainbow replied, flapping her wings, implying that we can't help out.

"Right...no wings..." Twilight muttered sadly.

"Sorry guys." Rainbow said before she sped away towards her teammates.

"Oh man..." Kodi said sadly. I petted his head and said "Don't worry buddy, I'm sure we can find someone that will allow us to help." Kodi smiled softly at me for cheering him up.

"Great, no what do we do?" Twilight asked, getting impatient.

"I don't know about you guys, but I'm gonna be napping." Spike responded over at a bush where he began snoring at.

Twilight pressed a hood at his cheek and looked at him with a serious expression. "Come on Spike, this is serious business. Winter needs to be wrapped up, and I'm determined to do my part. Somehow..."

"Twilight..." I called out to her. She looked over to me in confusion. "Maybe you don't need to be in a team, I understand that this is your first Winter Wrap-Up in Ponyville, but maybe you can do something any other pony can't do?" I suggested.

"But that's just it Ren...I don't know what it is.." Twilight admitted, sadly.

"Well we're hundred percent sure that you'll find out soon Twilight. I mean, you're amazing reader and good organizing skills...maybe one of those can help out."

"Ren's right, and that's why we're gonna help you!" Kodi exclaimed in determination.

"Thanks Ren and Kodi." Twilight said, smiling at us. "Well, what are we going to do though?"

"Well why don't we go visit our friends and see if we can do what they can do?" I offered.

"Hmm....sounds like a good idea." Twilight shrugged as we began to head out to meet up with our friends.





We decided to head up to Rarity first as we saw her making some bird nests, which I found odd since birds are the ones who make nests.

"Oh hello Ren, Twilight, Kodi, and Spikey-wikey." Rarity greeted us. "What's brings you four here?"

"We're just here to see if we can find some way to see if we can help out in WInter Wrap-Up?" I asked politely.

Well, would you four like to try your hoof at a nest?" Rarity asked. I was about to respond until Twilight cut me off.

"Would we?!" Twilight said excitedly. "Yes! Where do we begin?"

"Wait..." I stop them. "Um, no offense Rarity, but shouldn't birds make them themselves? Because that's how it works in my world." I said, much to their confusion.

Rarity then started to laugh and said "Oh Ren, that's silly! Maybe from your world, but not for us."

"Um....Okay, so how do you make one?" I asked.

"Okay now..." Rarity began her explanation by levitating a basket of hay, twigs, and ribbons over to my and Twilight's side of the table. "Take some of that straw and hay over there, and a little bit of branch..." I gestured Kodi to bring some of the material to me, which he understood. Once he brought them to me, I started to make it carefully and neatly.

Twilight had already neatly separated the components as Rarity went on. "Now weave them through there, es. Uh, take some ribbon, yes, oh uh, n....not there Twilight, oooh, yes, uh, tuck it in over there, uh but be careful not to...I don't know, I guess that would do...oh dear."

After we were finish, me and Rarity looked over and winced a bit at the 'nest' Twilight had fabricated. Not that I'll admit but, it looks like something you'll puke out.

"There! It looks just like..." Twilight's enthusiasm deflated when she saw the difference between hers and Rarity's. "Yours. Oh my."

"That nest needs to be condemned." Spike commented dryly, which Kodi nodded slowly.

"Oh,  Spa-ha-hike, it's not so bad, ah, maybe birds can use it as a...." Rarity tried to find the right word as she doesn't want to hurt Twilight's feelings.

"An outhouse?" Kodi suggested.

"Kodi!" I snapped, which made the dog smile sheepishly.

"It's just fine!" Rarity exclaimed. "It's just a little rough around the edges. Let me lend you a hood. Let's just untie this ribbon, and let me take out these stick here, we'll shave this.."

I then noticed Twilight sulked as Rarity continued to fix the nest Twilight made.

"I think we lost her." Spike whispered, which Kodi nodded in agreement. Soon, Twilight started to walk away, sadly.

"Twilight..." I muttered in sadness.

"I'm so sorry Ren!" Rarity apologized. "I didn't mean to hurt her feelings! I was just trying to help her fix her nest!" I let out a sigh and made a sad smile.

"It's okay Rarity, I mean, this is her first time, and so is mine. I mean, my nest can't be that good." I said nervously, looking over my nest, which made Rarity gasp in shock. Apparently, it looked perfectly the same way as Rarity's.

"Why it is so perfect! Ren, you are truly amazing, even at your first try! I say, it's look good, no wait, better yet...fabulous!" Rarity exclaimed in joy, causing me to blush.

"Well like I said before, I'm good at Art, but never showed it before." I said nervously. Alright, enough talk, I better go after Twilight. "Anyway, we gotta go after Twilight, bye!"

"Wait, we?" Spike asked as I grabbed Spike and Kodi running after me.

"Bye Ren! Bye Kodiak! Bye Spikey-Wikey! See you later!" Rarity called out as we began to find where Twilight was.





We looked around to find her until I heard a-

"WHEEEEEE!"

Me, Kodi, and Spike turned around to see Pinkie Pie ice-skating around the frozen pond, with Twilight watching in amazement.

"Oh there she is!" Kodi said, happy to finally found her.

"Yeah..." I said as we watched over to see Pinkie giving some Ice-skates to Twilight.

"Hey, Twilight, wanna help me out?" Pinkie asked.

"Would I?!" Twilight gasped happily.

"Come on, put on those skates I got." Pinkie said as Twilight finally put on her skates. "I bet you'll be a natural too!"

"Okay!" Twilight said as she took the skates and put them on. But as soon as she stepped out onto the ice, she immediately knew she was no natural, particularly because she'd never ice-skated before. I mean, maybe she'd read about ice-skating, but of course she never done that in real life.

"Yaaaaay!" Pinkie cheered as she zoomed across the ice.

"Twilight!" I called out to her, gaining her attention. "Sorry about what happen back at Rarity's, I didn't mean-"

"It's okay Ren, it wasn't your fault." Twilight assured. "Besides, it was just one time, and maybe I can help out with Pinkie...but.." Twilight was having second doubts about herself as we saw Pinkie skating around in joy like it was nothing. "Uh....maybe on second thought-" Twilight didn't finish her sentence as she fell down, due to the ice skates she was wearing.

"What are you talking about?" Spike asked, still a little sore about being woken up early for nothing and being woken up shortly after that false-start. "You said you wanted to be helpful."

"Yippie!" Pinkie cried happily as she made a graceful leap. Wow, somepony out there, sign this mare for the winter Olympics because she might win the gold for ice-skating!

"Yeah Twilight, we know you can do it!" Kodi encouraged her.

"Yeah, you heard Kodi! Now get out there!" Spike insisted, pushing Twilight out into the ice.

"Oh no, whoa, wow..." Twilight scurried to gain control but her lack of experience saw fit to defy her will, and Spike couldn't help a feeling a guilty delight in watching Twilight's ice-capade.

"Um..Spike, are you sure about this?" I asked in concern.

"Pfft!" Spike said, rolling his eyes. "Don't worry, I'm sure she'll be fine!"

"Twilight, steer! Steer!" Pinkie called to her.

"Yaaaaa!" Twilight cried as she came at Pinkie.

"Oh boy..." Pinkie muttered as she was crashed into Twilight, as the two screamed and are about to...

"Oh no..." I muttered as I realized where they're gonna crash, and that's us. Once they crashed into us, the five of us were screaming as we made it into the snowbank, the five of us covered in a snowball, making a tall snowman-figure. We shook the snow off, as Spike and Kodi started to laugh.

"Ha ha, you are a natural, Twilight. A natural disaster!" Spike laughed, causing me to glare at him for making fun of Twilight.

"That was awesome! Let's do it again!" Kodi added.

I noticed Twilight feeling bad that she messed up again. Pinkie soon got out of the snow and turned to us.

"Twilight, you did a great job your first time around. I'm sure my first time was just as wobbly and bobbly and crasheriffic as yours."

"Really?" Twilight asked with a hopeful smile.

Pinkie thought for a minute before flatly replying "No."

Spike and Kodi chuckled some more, Twilight sulking, and I face-palmed upon that statement.

"But did I make you feel better?" Pinkie asked, in a cheery smile.

"Mm-hmm, yeah, I guess.." Twilight muttered.

"Not that much..." I added, shaking my head at her. Well, Pinkie didn't help much, no offense to her.





"Cheer up Twilight, there has to be somepony that will admire your talents." I assured while we walk in hopes in finding somepony to accept Twilight in helping her around Winter Wrap-Up.

"Yeah but...just who?" Twilight asked.

"Hey, isn't that Fluttershy?" Kodi asked, pointing towards Fluttershy, who was near some cave.

"Yeah, it is. Wonder what's she doing?" I asked curiously. We all walked towards her as I said "Hey Fluttershy."

"Ooh!" Fluttershy was startle and accidentally tripped, falling back. I hurried over and caught her before she fell onto her back. She squealed a little in embarrassment as I helped onto her hooves.

"Hey, you okay Flutters?" I asked.

"Y-yes, I'm fine." Fluttershy as she got up and dust off herself. "Thank you." I nodded as Twilight, Spike, and Kodi walk over to us.

"Hey Fluttershy, what are you doing?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Look...!" She pointed towards the hole and we felt heart-warm as a Badger and her three little baby ones yawned as they ambled out and made their towards the meadow.

"Aw, I didn't know that baby badgers could look so adorable." I commented. If they become any more cuter than Kodi, no offense to him, I'll scoop it up and give it a hug.

"Hey!" Kodi said, glaring at me, causing me to chuckle sheepishly.

"But not as cute as you Kodiak." I said, petting his fur, causing to be happy again.

"Well, aren't they though Ren?" Fluttershy said softly as she gazes at the badgers. "I love no task more than this in the whole season." Fluttershy sighed, feeling like a mother. "To see all my little animal friends again. I look through each warren and den to wake up all the little hibernating critters."

"That sounds like fun." I chuckled as I turned to Twilight. "So Twilight, why not give it a try?"

"Would I?" She sure like to say that every time when we try something new, eh?

"Oh but just look at all these warrens and dens." Fluttershy sighed at the work ahead of us. "I'm worried that I won't be able to wake up every animal before spring comes."

"Well, we'll help, right Ren and Kodi?" Twilight asked hopefully.

"You bet!" I said, nodding my head.

"Yeah, we'll totally help!" Kodi added.

"Oh you will? That would be wonderful." Fluttershy thanked us, as she gave Spike and Kodi two little bells.

"Okay, I'll start over here." Twilight decided as she and Spike approached one of the warren.

"Alright, we'll start over there." I said as me and Kodi headed over to the other warren. Kodi shook the bell gently to make it ringing. "Hello? Wake up, little friends, wherever you are. Spring is coming!"

We stepped back, ringing the bell again as we got excited. Just then, a batch of baby bunnies came coming out, and just the sight of them, made me go 'Awww' at them. Just then, Twilight let out a scream.

"Snakes?! Snakes!" We turned around to see Twilight backing away from the baby snakes, not noticing that she had backed into a small cave, from which she ran out screaming from a swoop of bats. Her terror distracted her from a tree, into which she ran face-first, shaking it and causing a hive of bees to fall onto her head, filling her with blind-fear in a both literal and emotional sense, causing her unknowingly into another cave, from which came out a family of skunks.

"Good morning, friends." Fluttershy said warmly to them.

"You know, those skunks are kinda cute when they aren't spraying you with their stink." I replied with a soft smile before hearing a groan from the cave. "Speaking of stink..."

Twilight soon came out, but we all flinched upon seeing the bee stings all over her face and smelled badly.

"Whoa, Twilight! You stink!" Spike announced, holding onto his nose.

"Thanks...I didn't know that..." Twilight said, sarcastically.

"Looks like you need to bathe in some tomato juice, Twilight. That way that stench will go away." I advised.

Twilight sighed and said "I know..." Oh man, she's even more disappointed and depressed than before. She began to walk off with Spike trailing behind her while he held his nose. Once she was out of sight, I let go of my nose and began to feel bad for Twilight.

"Poor Twilight..." Fluttershy said, feeling bad for Twilight.

"Yeah...hey Fluttershy, I gotta go! See ya!" I waved goodbye as me and Kodi ran off to find Twilight.

"Um...bye Ren, and Kodi." Fluttershy waved back to us.





"Where did Twilight go?" Kodi asked, looking around curiously.

"I don't know, she couldn't run off that far."" I said in concern. I really feel bad for her, I promise that I can help her find some way to help out in Winter Wrap-Up, but its only making it more worse.

"Um...Ren..." I turned to Kodi, who had his eyes widened for some reason.

"Yeah Kodi?" I asked as Kodi slowly pointed something in our direction. You have got to be kidding me right now....A giant snowball came crashing into us, and we crashed into a high ledge. But a rumbling above us made us gasp as the snow on top of the edge came crashing down and on into an avalanche.

Me and Kodi popped our heads out of the now, alongside Applejack and Twilight. Applejack was glaring angrily at Twilight as she said "Twilight! I can't believe it, you used magic! That is now how we get things round here done, Twilight, especially not on my farm!"

Twilight then started to tear up, making me feel extremely bad for her. Man, I haven't seen her like this since we got those tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala. Before we could respond, Twilight teleported off, upset and in shame.

"Twilight?" Kodi asked, looking around for her but no luck.

"Applejack, what happen?" I asked, wanting to know what upset her.

"She came to me and asked if she could plow away the snow, and I told her not to use magic because since Ponyville was discovered by Earth Ponies, we have to do this the old fashion way. But that mare used her magic and look what she did." Applejack explained.

"But all she ever wanted was to help out, besides Applejack, this is her first time. She didn't know better and now you made her cry." I said, glaring at her. Applejack realized this and let out a sigh and made a sad look.

"You're right, I'm sorry Ren. I didn't know better." Applejack admitted.

"Now what do we do?" Kodi asked in a worried tone.

"Well, I can clean up this snow with some help from my Hacking Gun." I said as I took it out from my coat.

"Hold it!" Applejack exclaimed, causing me to become confused. "I'm not sure if its such a wise idea to do that-"

"Burn!" I exclaimed as I shot 'Burn' and burn away the snow, making some room for Spring. Applejack jaw dropped upon and looked at me with a surprise expression. I smirked and said "You were saying?"

"Huh...I guess that was convenient..." Applejack said, sighing.

"Yeah, anyway, I gotta go find Twilight, bye!" I said as me and Kodi headed out to go and find her.





I don't understand, where she could be? If I was Twilight, where would I be hiding? The library maybe?

Kodi then started sniffing around until he pointed towards the bush. We walked towards it, finding a depressed Twilight.

"Twilight!" Me and Kodi exclaimed in unison. Twilight looked at us for a while before looking away.

"Hey guys..." Twilight moaned.

"Twilight, please come out of that bush." I said, feeling bad for her to be like this. "No offense, but crying and moaning in a bush isn't kinda the answer. Trust me, I know."

"...I'm such a winter mess-up..." Twilight said sadly as her ears were drooping. "I was just trying to get the job done but..."

"Ah come on, Twilight, it couldn't have been that bad!" Kodi said, trying to make her feel better.

"Gee, thanks for making me feel so much better, Kodi." Twilight said sarcastically.

"That's what I'm here for!" Twilight face-hooved upon my dog not catching the sarcasm. I let out a sigh and decided to speak with her.

“Twilight listen, you can’t give up yet. I mean, me and Kodiak haven’t join in any team, besides, we believe in you, I believe in you.” Twilight looked at me with a confused expression. “I mean, you’re the best magical unicorn I’ve ever met, well the first time actually, but that’s besides the point. What I’m trying to say Twilight, that you’re an expert when it comes to learning and such. You’re Princess Celestia’s Faithful Student, right? So you shouldn’t feel bad for yourself and you shouldn’t give up, because we all believe in you.” Twilight thought for a while before giving me a hug.

“Thank you…Ren.” Twilight said, smiling at me. I hugged her back and said “Anytime…Twilight.”

“Um…awkward.” I overheard Kodi said, with a little disgusted look. What’s his problem?

“Rainbow Dash!” Huh? What is it now? We turned around to see Applejack confronting Rainbow Dash. “You all need to melt the rest of the snow on the ground and in the trees, pronto!” Applejack exclaimed.

“Sure thing!” Rainbow replied, with a salute.

“You can’t!” Fluttershy stepped in with a worried expression. “My poor little animals homes will get flooded if the snow melts too fast!”

“Got it!” Rainbow nodded,

“I’m telling you Rainbow! The snow’s gotta go!” Applejack demanded again.

“No, you simple must wait!” Fluttershy begged.

“Go!”

“Stop!”

“Go!”

“Stop!”

“Urgh! Make up your minds!” Rainbow exclaimed, annoyed with their fighting.

“Oh, what in Equestria are you all arguing about?” Mayor Mare demanded as she stepped out of Town Hall. “It’s this kind of silliness why we’re always late for spring!” Wait what?

“Did she say ‘late’?” Twilight asked, incredulously.

“I think she did.” Kodi said in surprised.

“Wait wait, hold on!” I yelled, gaining everypony’s attention. “What do you mean always late for spring?! Just as soon as we began and started that song, we all were doing fine!”

“Well true…” Mayor Mare said. “But I was hoping my amazingly inspirational speech would urge everypony to do better this year. But it looks like we’re going to be later than ever! I mean just look at this catastrophe! The ice scorers made the ice chunks too big to melt.”

Pinkie shrugged apologetically as she looked out to the large ice chunks in the lake.

“The nest designer is horrendously behind, we need several hundred, and she’s only made one!” Rarity started bawling upon hearing that statement.

“And don’t get me started on all the clouds in the sky, the icicles on the trees…This isn’t good, not at all!” Mayor Mare complained. Me, Kodi, and Twilight looked at each other in shock. I don’t believe it, looks like Twilight wasn’t the only one who had trouble fitting in.

“And it’s all gonna be all to pieces disastrous if we can’t get all our seeds planted!” Applejack said as she glared at Rainbow.

“Chillax, Applejack, we’re busting our chops as fast as we can!”

“No, not so fast!” Fluttershy insisted politely. “We have to wake up all the animals slowly!”

“Uh, AJ?” We all looked to see Big Mac and a guilty looking pony.

“Oh good gravy, Caramel lost the grass seeds again, didn’t he?” Applejack said as she face-hooved.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac nodded, as the pony next to him looked ashamed.

“Rainbow!” One of the Pegasus ponies flew over to Dash and complained “Ditzy Doo accidentally went north to get the southern birds!” Wait, how could she messed that up?! They’re called Southern birds for a reason!

“Oh that featherbrain. Didn’t she learn her lesson last year when she went west?” Rainbow asked angrily.

All the ponies began grumbling and complaining. This is bad, if we don’t make them stop fighting and instead, work together, we will never get Spring here!

“Ren, Twilight, what do we do?” Kodi asked in concern. I thought for a while as we tried to find a way.  If we don’t act soon, springtime will never happen. If only we could be more organized.

Oh..Ooooooh! That’s it! That’s how Twilight can help with the Winter Wrap-Up! She’s great at organizing!

“Twilight, I think we found out what you can do to help Winter Wrap-Up!” I exclaimed, much to her confusin.

“R-really?” Twilight asked. I nodded as I turned to the crowd, who were still arguing.

“Stop! Everyone Stop!” I yelled but no one listen to me. I shook my head and took out my Hacking Gun and pointed it towards a nearby tree and shot ‘Break’ at it, causing it to shook and causing many icicles to fall and break, gaining everypony’s attention. “Thank you…now listen everypony, I know you all want to complete your jobs on time, but arguing is no way to go about it. What you all need is organization, and Twilight’s the pony for the job.” Twilight widened her eyes upon hearing that.

“R-Ren…do you really think that I”m up for it?“ Twilight asked in worried.

“Hey, don’t worry, we can do this together, besides, you don’t think I’m just gonna sit around and do nothing? I’m helping too!” I exclaimed in a determined expression.

“Yeah, so will I!” Kodi exclaimed in joy. Twilight thought for a while until she made a soft smile at us.

“Alright, let’s do this everypony!” Twilight exclaimed in determination. Soon, everypony cheered as they believed that Twilight was their last hope. Alright, time to get to work!





With help of Twilight’s organization skills, she had every pony follow her plan, even me and Kodiak. Big Mac and Applejack gathered the supplies for Rarity and her team to make the birds’ nest, and get them where they needed to be. I helped out by both getting the supplies and making some birds’ nest with her.

The ice-scorers worked together, cutting the ice in a grid-formation.

The planting team worked together, one pony in front to plow the snow, a second to plow the earth, and the third, which was Kodi, planted the seeds, all in line and in succession.

Fluttershy, Kodi, and I pulled a rope that had bells hung up on them, and with a shake, the bells rang at each den, waking up every critter. But when the snakes came out, we saw Twilight on top of a tree, shaking. Me and Kodi started snickering at her fear of snakes.

With that done, Rainbow was at last able to start clearing the clouds, with my help as I got my hoverboard and used ‘Break’ and ‘Move’ to clear the clouds, making way for the sunshine and before long, the snow and ice everywhere were all melting, leaking away and feeding into the lakes, rivers, and streams, all the while moistening the ground.

With the fields moistened and cleared, we were all able to work better, even as we worked into the night, making sure all the seeds were planted, and by the next morning, the weather team led home the southern birds, who all settled into the nests that had been prepared for them.

We did it…we actually did it. We got Spring to finally arrived in the perfect time.

“I can’t believe it!” We turned to Mayor Mare, who was so overjoyed as we gaze upon the completed work we done. “Spring is here! On time!” Mayor Mare then looked over at Twilight, as everypony else gathered. “And we have you to thank for it. If it weren’t for your organizing skills, we would still be arguing.”

“Eeyup!” Big Mac agreed, spurring a laugh from all of us.

“It was a team effort.” Twilight said modestly.

“And since you helped every team we have an official vest for you.” Mayor Mare said as Rarity approached, levitating a new vest as she placed it upon Twilight. “We give you the title ‘All-Team Organizer’.”

Twilight, Kodi, and I marveled at the vest, green on the chest, blue on the back, hemmed in brown, the same colors as the three teams.

“Gosh, I don’t even know what to say! Thank you, everypony!” Twilight said, happily gazing at her vest. “But I couldn’t gotten help from my friends, Ren, and his dog friend, Kodiak.” Twilight said as everyone turned to me.

“Ahh, it was nothing Twilight.” I said, rubbing my head in embarrassment. “Besides, you were the one who found out by yourself.”

“No, it was because you believed in me and kept encouraging me.” Twilight said, blushing lightly.

“Well even so, I don’t deserve most of the credit.” I said. Everypony smiled happily at me, as I smiled back at them.

“Yeah, besides, this Winter-Wrap Up was the best one ever, even for my first time!” Kodi exclaimed. I smiled softly at him and started to pet him as we gaze upon the new season of Spring.

“I hereby declare that winter is wrapped up on time!” Mayor Mare proudly announced, much to everypony’s cheers.

“You know Kodi, for our first time in Winter Wrap-Up, it was quite awesome.” I said.

“Yeah…” Kodi’s tummy started to rumble, implying that he was hungry. “Speaking of which, when are we gonna eat?” I let out a sigh and shook my head with a smirk of my face. Oh Kodiak, you silly little puppy.

“Alright, let’s go home and eat, and then we can go play around up on the hills.” I said happily, much to Kodi’s joy. But you know, it’s quite beautiful seeing the sun and the beauty of nature here in Equestria. Makes me wish that my family was here and saw this themselves. I sighed upon remembering my family. You know, I just wish there was someway for me to let them know that I’m okay and trapped in another world. I guess, I’ll just have to keep on waiting until I can find my way back home…

To Be Continued
> Chapter 14 - Suited For Success
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So why are we going to Rarity's place again?" Kodi asked as we were walking through the streets of Ponyville.

"Because we need to fix the suit's sleeve after a little someone was busy playing and wouldn't let go." I said, raising a brow at Kodi, who smiled sheepishly. See, this morning, I was woken up by some chewing and became shocked to see Kodiak was busy eating my suit. I tried to pull it away from him but he said that he doesn't know how to do that, and after five minutes of tug of war, the suit's sleeve was ruined. So, that's why we're heading to Rarity's dress shop so that she can fix it.

As me and Kodi finally arrived to Rarity's shop, we saw that Twilight and Applejack had already arrived. Wonder why?

"Hey Rarity! Are you here?" I asked, but Twilight and Applejack shushed me.

"Can't you see she's trying to concentrate?" Twilight whispered. I looked over to see Rarity focusing her magic on some thread and needles, directing the stitch-work of her latest creation.

"Oh, sorry." I said, smiling sheepishly.

"Though, I wonder what she's working on..." Kodi said, tilting his head in confusion.

"Looks like a dress." Twilight suggested.

"Well, that makes sense." Applejack agreed. "Since this is a dressmaker's shop and all."

"Well yeah." I said shrugging my shoulders. "But what's the dress for?"

We heard a grumble as we looked to see Rarity turning around with a forced smile on her face. "Is there something I can help you with?" She asked. I noticed she was wearing red glasses I had never seen her wear before.

"Oh, so very sorry to trouble you, Rarity, but I need a quick favor." Twilight said as she pulled out a dress from her bag and placed it on the table. "Could you please fix the button for me? It's my dress for the Grand Galloping Gala."

Rarity observed it for a sec but let out a gasp. "Oh no-no-no! You can't wear this...old thing. You need a glamorous new outfit for the Gala and I'll make it for you. No problem at all, it would be my pleasure!"

"Oh that's so kind of you to offer, Rarity, but would be so much work!" Twilight politely declined. "This dress is fine."

"Twilight Sparkle, I insist on making you a new dress." Rarity said firmly.

"But-"

"Not another word! I won't take 'no' for an answer."

"Yeah, she's right Twilight!" Kodi said happily. "You can leave it to her, after all, she's wearing glasses which makes her smart!" Rarity blushed upon hearing that comment while I made a soft smile on that claim. I'm going to have tell Kodi that glasses don't make people smart, trust me, I already tried that when I was seven.

"Well...in that case, thank you for your generosity, Rarity." Twilight said as she smiled and continued. "Knowing your handiwork, I know it will be absolutely beautiful!"

Rarity then looked over to me. "Oh, what about you Ren darling? I could've sworn I made you a suit back then." Rarity said with a confuse expression.

"Yeah, about that..." I showed her my suit, which she gasped in shock upon seeing it. "Kodiak started chewing it as soon as I woke up and tried to get it back, but the suit got ripped and...so we came by to see if you can help..." I admitted as Kodi felt bad that he made me mad, but instead, I was just feeling disappointed. Somepon should remind me to train Kodiak.

"Well don't worry old chum." Rarity said in a determined look. "I shall remake your outfit!" I smiled happily at Rarity wanting to help me out.

"Thanks Rarity." I said, which Rarity nodded before looking over at Applejack.

"And let me guess, Applejack. You don't want a new gown either." Rarity said.

"Gown?" Applejack questioned. "Shoot. I was just gonna wear my old work duds." Why am I not surprise that she doesn't like to wear fancy outfits?

"You can't possibly be serious, Applejack! You absolutely must wear formal attire." Rarity exclaimed.

"Hm..." Applejack thought as she placed a hoof to her chin. "Nah."

"Why if I just spruce up your...duds for you a little bit?" Rarity offered.

"Okay, sure. Why not? Since you're up for it and all. Just don't make them too...froufrou-y."

"Deal!" Rarity shook her hoof, agreeing on making Applejack's dress.

"Wait...I don't have a suit." Kodi said.

"Oh right...I guess I could get Rarity to make you a bow and hat..." I said in thought. If Princess Celestia could've gotten me another golden ticket for you. I wonder if Twilight even send her a letter at all.

"Well, I guess I could make you that, my dear Kodiak." Rarity said, much to Kodi's joy.

"You sure you can make all of us outfits for the Gala?" I asked in concern.

"Oh please Ren. I can make one faster than Rainbow Dash can move a cloud!" Rarity exclaimed.

"Well..okay." I shrugged.

"LOOK OUT BELOW!" Look out what? Suddenly, a familiar rainbow-maned Pegasus landed into Rarity's mannequins, much to our bewilderment. "Oops, sorry, new trick. Didn't quite work out."

"Yeah, I think we can see how it went..." I said, widening my eyes a little to see come in like this.

"Hmm..." Rarity observed Rainbow Dash as she was in the pile of clothes with a bucket on her head. "I-DEA! I'll make you an outfit for the Gala too, Rainbow Dash!"

"A...what for the what, now?" Rainbow asked, looking around in confusion

"I'll make one for you and you and all of you. Oh! And of course Pinkie and Fluttershy too. Oh, and when I'm done, we can hold our very own fashion show!" Rarity exclaimed.

"What a great idea!" Twilight agreed, but then raised a brow. "If you're certain you can handle it."

"Oh, it'll be a little bit of work." Rarity waved it off as she levitated out many rolls of different color fabric. "But it will be a wonderful boost for my business. Plus, fun!"

"Ooh! I'm into fun things!" Rainbow said, as she was still in the pile of clothes.

"Then it's settled! We'll have a fashion show starring...us!" Rarity announced as she already began to get work on a new design.

"Um, no offense, girls." I spoke up, gaining everypony attention. "But wouldn't it be weird for a boy like me and a dog like Kodiak to be showing off in our suits like that?"

"Well...you do have a point darling." Rarity said, realizing that would be weird.

"Oh come Ren!" Kodi begged. "It would be fun to show off our new suits! I mean, what's the worse could it happen?." Kodi suggested. Besides fighting off an Ursa Minor, a jerky magician mare, a giant dragon, and an evil mare that was trapped on the moon for thousand of years. Yeah, I feel like something terrible might happen, but then again, I guess I could give it a try.

"Alright, I don't mind then." I said, smiling softly.

"Yay!" Kodi jumped in joy for me deciding to go to the fashion show.

"Excellent choice Ren!" Rarity said as Applejack walked over to her.

"So all you have to do is make a different, stunning, original, amazing outfit for, plus, yourself, six ponies, one human, and a talking dog? And lickety split?" Applejack asked.

"Oh, Applejack." Rarity laughed. "You make it sound as if it's going to be hard."

"Oh...well alright then." Applejack replied. "I'll guess we'll check up on our outfits later!"

"Yeah, good luck Rarity!" I said as I handed her my ripped up suit to her. Rarity thanked meas we headed out, repeating our thanks to her. Even Rainbow got out of the pile of clothes and headed out of the shop, saying her thanks to Rarity. I just hope Rarity knows what she's doing. Nah, she totally knows what she's doing.





Later

I was back home, I was busy eating lunch while Kodi was eating his dog treats. Though, while walking back home, Kodi kept apologizing to me over and over and I kept saying 'it's okay'. I understand Kodi feels so sad for ripping my tux's sleeve, but I just wished he could relax, I told him already that I wasn't mad at him. So I decided to make it up by making some food for us. I was having a peanut-butter and Jelly Sandwhich, and made another for Kodi to add to his snack, just to show that I really do accept his apologize.

"So Ren, when can we go to this Gala, Rarity was talking about?" Kodi asked.

"I think somewhere next month, but I'm still waiting to hear if Princess Celestia would get another ticket for you." I said, as I finished up my fries.

"Oh...got it." Kodi said as he rubbed his belly in joy. Guess a little someone just finish his lunch. Soon after, the doorbell rang as I headed over and opened it, revealing Twilight and the four other girls.

"Hey Ren, guess what?" Twilight said, getting excited. "Rarity just finished our dresses and fixing your tux!"

"Oh really? That's awesome!" I said as I whistled Kodi over. "Let's go guys!"

They all nodded as we headed over to Rarity's shop and once we arrived, I gently knock on the door, revealing an over-excitedly Rarity.

"Oh there you all are! Come in, come in! Just close your eyes." Rarity said.

"Um...why?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Duh, Kodi, it's a surprise, and she wants us to not see them yet." I told him as I closed my eyes.

"Oh." Kodi said before closing his eyes. Rarity then lead us to the girl's new dresses and my newly fixed up tux.

"That's it. Keep them closed." Rarity said as kept going in. Oh boy, I can't wait to see what my Tux is like. "Don't look...." I just hope it so awesome looking. "Okay, you can look now!" All of us gasped as we saw the new clothes. I even saw my Tux, and the rip was nowhere to be found, like there was no rip at all. I even saw a little pony manneqin next to my tux. It only had a fancy black hat and a black bow, guess that's Kodiak.

"These are your new outfits. What do you think of your old duds now, Applejack? Pretty swanky, are they not? And Twilight! I made this dress for you and I designed each outfit theme to perfectly reflect each pony's unique personality. Oh, it took me forever to get the colors right on this one, Rainbow Dash, but I did it. Oh, and it turned out BEAUTIFUL, don't you think? Ooh, and I know you are going to love yours, Fluttershy. It just sings spring! And Pinkie Pie, look! Pink! Your favorite! Ren, I also fixed up your sleeve just like you wanted, and I also made your little puppy friend some accessories for the Gala. Ooh, he would look so cute in that. So, aren't they all amazing? "Rarity announced each dress's details very excitedly as she awaited the instant approval from us.

"Those..." I spoke up.

"Are..." Kodi said as we jumped up and said "Awesome!"

"You really know your stuff, Rares!" I said in amazement. "Thanks so much for fixing my tux!" I smiled happily.

"Yeah, and thanks for making me a hat and a bow for the Gala!" Kodi said, wagging his tail happily.

"Why thank you Ren and Kodiak, darling." Rarity bowed before turning to the girls. "So, what do you think? Aren't they fabulous?"

There was a silence so deep, that I could almost hear everypony's eyes blink, especially Rarity who kept smiling excitedly. Wonder why the silence? I mean, don't they like Rarity's design?

"Wow...they're..." Twilight spoke up nervously.

"Yeah, they're..." Rainbow tried to assist.

"They sure are...something." Applejack added.

"Yes!" Twilight pointed out." Something." This caused me and Kodi to frown upon hearing this from them. They really don't like it.

"I love something! Something is my favorite!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"Wait what?" Kodi asked. I shrugged my shoulders and continue to see what was happening.

"It's...nice." Fluttershy said, but she held her ears and head down like she was so disappointed. I don't believe it, why don't they love it?! I, for one, including Kodi, think they're awesome.

"But what's the matter? Don't you like them>" Rarity asked in worried.

"They're very nice..." Twilight said, looking away in fear.

"And we're plum grateful cause you worked so hard on them." Applejack added, nervously.

"Mine's just not as cool as I was imagining." Rainbow said in a bored expression, causing Applejack and Twilight to glare at her angrily. "What? She asked!"

Rarity's smiled turned into a frown upon hearing that.

I let out a sigh and stepped in front of them and looked at them with a sad expression. "You girls don't like them? But why? They look really amazing, I even like it!"

"Yeah, and I think they're awesome too!" Kodi added.

"No Ren, we do like them..." Twilight said as she paused for a moment. "It's just that...I guess what we're all saying is that they're not what we had in mind." Twilight admitted sadly. Everypony murmured in agreement, much to me and Kodi's shock. I don't believe it, Rarity put all of her hard work and this happens!

I turned to Rarity, who was still disappointed upon hearing our friends' opinions.

"That's okay." Rarity sighed. "Not a problem. There's plenty more where that came from. They were only a first pass. You're my friends and I want you to be 110% satisfied. Now to worry, I'll redo them."

"Oh, Rarity. You don't have to do that. They're fine." Fluttershy said, feeling bad for hurting Rarity's feelings.

"I want them to be better, that's just fine." Rarity explained as she began her redoing process. "I want you to think they're absolutely perfect."

"Are you sure? I mean, we wouldn't wanna impose." Applejack asked.

Rarity laughed as she said "Oh, it's no imposition. Really, I insist."

"Well, in that case...Thank you again, Rarity." Twilight thanked as she and the other ponies began leaving the room, which Rarity laughed nervously.

As soon as the door closed, she looked at the ground, sadly. "What have I gotten myself into?" Rarity asked.

"R-rarity?" I asked in worried.

"It's okay Rares, those dresses seem pretty cool to us." Kodi said, smiling softly at her.

"Yeah, even I thought it was an awesome work, and the way you fix my tux's sleeve, that was pretty cool. I just don't understand why they didn't like them." I added.

"No Ren and Kodiak! Please, it's...alright! After all, the customer is always right, and all that. I gave you all my word you would each receive an outfit you yourselves deemed perfect! And while I am thankful you both are satisfied with your suits, I simply must keep true to my word. So, please! Don't tell them about the issue, promise me!" Rarity begged.

"B-but...but..." Kodi couldn't find the right word to say to her, so I let out a sigh and decided to settle this.

"It's okay Rarity, we promise that we won't say anything..." I said sadly.

"Oh thank you!" Rarity said as she sighed in relief before clearing her throat. "Now, feel free to take your suits but I must get back to work, tight schedule and whatnot." Rarity said as she got back to her work on the dresses.

"Umm...you sure you don't want us to help you?" I offered. "I mean, with my Hacking Gun, I'm sure that-"

"No no, I can handle this my friends, now, ta-ta!" Rarity waved off as me and Kodi looked at each other and sighed before leaving the shop, saying our goodbye to Rarity as I took my newly fixed tux and Kodiak's new accessories for the Gala.

"Poor Rarity...she looked so sad upon hearing our friends' opinions." Kodi said, his ears being droopy.

"Yeah, I can't believe this, the girls receive exclusive original dresses, so well made, and they don't think they're good enough, and totally disregard Rarity's generosity." I said, pouting in anger. I just wished they were something we could do. Wait, that's it! I know how we can fix all of this!




Later

It was getting late as we were at the fashion show...in disguise. I wore a fedora I found at home and even a fake mustache, and Kodiak put on some dark sunglasses, problem is that he can't see anything in it. As many ponies started to show up, I waited at the front of the show for Kodi to know what was happening. Finally, Kodi came over and gestured me to come. I looked around to see if anypony was watching me, and once the coast was clear. I got out of the crowd and headed for the back of the show, where I met up with Rarity as well.

"Kodi, why did you bring Rarity?" I asked in confusion.

"Well, you see, I got good news and bad news..." Kodi said sheepishly, which Rarity nodded sadly.

"What's the good news?"

"Well...have you ever heard of Hoity-Toity before?" Rarity asked. 

"Hoity-what? No offense Rarity, but I'm not from this world, remember?" I reminded her, causing her to blush lightly. Okay, seriously? Do I even need to say it? Hoity-Toity sounds like a ridiculous, yet funny name.

"Right...anyway, Hoity-Toity is a famous fashion critic from Canterlot. He apparently somehow knew about the fashion show tonight and is coming here...TONIGHT!" Rarity exclaimed as she grabbed my cheeks and started to panic. I firmly gripped her shoulders and tried to calm her down.

"Relax Rarity, now what's the bad news, you guys?" I asked.

"Well...remember the dresses Rarity tried to fix up for the others?" Kodi reminded me.

"Yeah why....oh please don't tell me that-"

"Hey Ren!" Huh? I quickly took off my disguise and hid it behind me. I looked behind Kodi and Rarity and....what in the actual heck?! The dresses the girl were...I-I don't even know what to even say, but it like they were hit by a tornado or something.

"Oh hey ladies, how's it....going?" I said, trying to hide m disgust away from them.

"We're just about to go on stage now, it was so nice for you and Kodi to come watch us." Twilight said, getting all excited.

"Yeah...totally, right Kodi?" I asked him, smiling nervously at him.

"Y-yeah...totally, Ren..." Kodi said, nodding slowly while smiling sheepishly.

"Yep, wish us luck Ren!" Applejack said before she and the other girls headed up the stage. As soon as they left, I made a nervous expression.

"You're right Rarity, I can imagine that this is truly bad! We need to to do something...fast!" I said.

"I know, but..I can't!" Rarity exclaimed.

"Why's that?" Kodi asked.

"Because...I just want my friends to be happy, I don't want to disappoint them!" Rarity explained. I let out a sigh and shook my head, I can understand Rarity doesn't want her friends to be so sad and disappointed like they were from the first moment Rarity made those dresses for them. But, I have no choice!

"I'm sorry Rarity, but I got no choice!" I said as I took out my Hacking Gun.

"But, what are you gonna do, Ren?" Kodi asked.

"I'm going to stop this show!" I said as I ran back to the show and that's when I saw somepony making his way to the show. He was an earth pony with a blue-gray coat, silvery blue/gray mane in an elaborate manestyle, as was his tail, he wore shades over his eyes, a fancy-looking dress collar, and his cutie-mark was a paper fan. He looked very effeminate but walked with a sense of undeserved accomplishment. I'm no famous fashion critic but...I think that's Hoity-Toity.

Hoity-Toity approached the walkway, and then clapped his hooves and somepony brought a cushion for him to sit on and getting his muzzle sat on when Hoity-Toity didn't even wait for him to move.

Soon, music began playing and lights flashed on the center of the stage, revealing Spike.

"Since the beginning of time, the elite of Equestria have longed for pony pashions that truly expressed the essence of their very souls. Patiently waiting decades, no...centuries! For the perfect pony gown. Today, at long last, Equestria, your wait is over! Let's hear it for the breathtaking designs of Ponyville's own Rarity!"

Okay, this is my chance to stop this! I aimed my Hacking Gun towards the light and shot 'Break' at it, knocking out the lights, and used 'Move' on the curtains, causing them to be closed. I then got onto stage, grabbing the mic from Spike, who glare at me.

"I'm so sorry everypony!" I announced. "But do to some unfortunate incident, the show is postponed until tomorrow night. Again, I'm so sorry and hope you will come back to the show once everything is okay, thank you!"

Everypony grumbled in anger and the crowd started to disperse. Hoity-Toity let out a huff and took his leave. I let out a sigh of relief, looks like I did it. Suddenly, I felt someone or something yanked me backstage, and I apparently found myself facing five angry mares. Oh crap, this is bad...for me, that is.

"Ren! Why in the name of Celestia did you cancel the show?!" Twilight demanded.

“Uhh….who’s Ren?” I asked nervously, until Twilight use her magic to snatch away the fedora and the fake mustache away from me, getting rid of my disguise. Oh crap, this does not look good.

"You better have a good explanation if you wanna keep your apples between your legs, Loodan!" Applejack warned, which made me crossed my legs in defense.

"I was looking forwards to showing off my cool dress and how cool I looked!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"That was very mean thing you did Rennie, and I'll never ever forgive you!" Pinkie added, but then whispered through my ear and said "Yes, I would, by the way." Typical Pinkie Pie.

"Forgive me Ren, but that was rude." Fluttershy scolded softy.

"I'm sorry...but I have too!" I exclaimed nervously.

"And why's that? Because..." Rainbow grabbed me by the hoodie and glared at me. "You have five seconds or else I'll beat you down!"

"Well I'll don't agree with what Rainbow is about to do." Twilight said, glaring at me. "But we do deserve an explanation! You even made Rarity upset!"

"Twilight, I'm not upset..." We all looked to see Rarity and Kodi walking over to us as she came over to me and hugged me tightly. "Thank you Ren!"

"Rarity?!" Twilight exclaimed, flabbergasted upon seeing her hugging me in a cheerful way, along with the other girls. "What are you talking about?! Ren just stopped the show, how can you be thanking him?"

"Um, maybe because of those dresses you girls are wearing?" Kodi said, angering the girls even more.

"What?..." Applejack asked, sneering at my pet. Oh god, she looks like she's about to kick either me or Kodi in the shins.

"What he means is that those clothes....are just wrong!" I exclaimed as Rainbow dropped me on the ground.

"What?!" The five mares exclaimed in unison.

"Look, don't be mad but...you girls looked like you were caught up in a tornado, and later gotten pooped on by a giant bird." I said bluntly, which made all the mare were dumbstruck upon those words of mine. Phew, that was easy.

"He's right, I hates those dresses the moment I've made them!" Rarity added, agreeing with me.

"Yeah, she wanted to tell you but she didn't want you to be disappointed!" Kodi said angrily.

"Kodi's right!" I spoke up, crossing my arms and glaring at them. "Rarity worked so hard to make those dresses perfect, and you girls kept dismissing her, overtaking her generosity!" The girls realized that I was right as they felt terrible and ashamed of themselves. I let out a sigh and softened my expression. "Rarity was trying to be a good friend, but you girls never understood her feelings. So, can we just forgive each other?"

"You're right Ren, we had the nerve to turn down the amazing dresses she originally made for us." Twilight spoke up, being ashamed of her. "And took advantage of her generosity."

"With these as the results." Rainbow muttered apologetically, taking off and kicking her dress away.

"We're mighty sorry, Sugarcube." Applejack offered.

"I was too judgmental in the design." Fluttershy added, sadly.

“We were meanies to turn down the dresses you made.” Pinkie cried.

“It’s alright, girls.” Rarity said, smiling softly at her friends. “I’m just glad you all understand.”

“You know…” I spoke up, gaining everypony’s attention. “I did like those original dresses, if you like to hear my opinion?” I asked, raising a brow.

“Why, that’s a great idea!” Rarity said happily. “And I can’t wait to see you all in them.”

“And I have an idea of how we can show you our thanks and apologies.” Twilight said, while looking at the girls.

“And wasn’t the fashion show postponed until tomorrow?” Kodi reminded us.

“Oh that’s right, I forgot.” I said smiling sheepishly at the girls. “Sorry about that.”

“Nah, it’s okay!” Rainbow said, waving it off.

“Exactly, we’d better make sure we’re ready.” Rarity said with a determined smile that the girls mirrored with nods.

“And…” Kodi spoke up. “I think I speak for me and Ren when I say…we wanna partake in the show!”

“Yeah!” I exclaimed in agreement before adding “And I just know how we can help Rarity make up for making those awful dresses….no offense.

“None taken.” Rarity said, smiling happily at me. Oh good, I can imagine what Rarity’s angry reaction could be, and something to remind me to never make a girl upset…ever.





The Next Day

“Take-Two!” Hoity-Toity announced. The next morning, we got up in an instant, headed for Rarity’s dress shop, and put on our clothes that Rarity made for us, and gotten ready for the fashion show.

Anyway, back to the fashion show, Spike closed the  curtains so the daylight wouldn’t ruin the effect and Rarity began the show, a light intensifying from her horn before she released a nova-effect of blue and white stars that cleared to reveal Twilight in her beautiful outfit that Rarity made for her. It was a blue star themed gown with an outerspace background that shimmed with stars.

“Hello…” Hoity-Toity’s interests had been piqued as Twilight spun her gown, the room being plunged into darkness.

Next up was me and Kodi, as we were wearing our fancy clothes. I wore an Angelino Blossom Tux and Kodi was wearing his snazzy black top hat and his black bow on his neck.

“Ah, fabulous!”

But then a bright sun blinded him and midnight was gone. In his place appeared an apple orchard, a bright shiny red apple getting lassoed and whipped as Applejack twirled it away and she posed in her green and brown ensemble, her tail braided, her front legs crossed.

“Simply magnificent!” Hoity-Toity awed. “And suddenly, I have a fierce craving for some Dutch apple pie. Candied apples on a stick? Apple turnovers? Apple cobbler?”

But then a light purple and pink mist clouded up the stage, before they were actual clouds that rained sweets, some of which alighted themselves onto Pinkie Pie, who caught a gumdrop and happily ate it before smiling as she posed in her dress, which had a candy-store theme to it.


“Brilliant!” He cheered but gasped at the sound of thunder and flashes of red, green, blue, and yellow, the same colors as the lightning bolts when a stormcloud appeared and colored rays of light pierced its thickness, an array of colors shining before revealing Rainbow Dash who posed in her rainbow-colored gown, hemmed with cloud-like material, her forehooves in golden sandels, and she wore golden laurels in her mane.

“Oh spectacular!” He cheered again. Wow, this guy gets easily impressed, well, by Rarity’s clothing I guess.

Suddenly, he gaped to see vines rise up, flowers blooming and petals falling, and from the fluorescent shower appeared Fluttershy, looking meek but hopeful as she was garbed in a trailing green gown with butterfly accessories.

“What a fashion show! These dresses, that suit, all truly amazing!” Hoity-Toity clapped. “Who is responsible? Step forward, show yourself!”

“I…think you should ask her about that.” I said as I bowed upon Rarity walking on the stage. She was garbed in her own dress, which was the one that the girls worked on, to both thank and apologize to Rarity. It was an amazing ball-gown, pink, magenta, purple, yellow, orange, and red jewels sewn in just the right places, and a radiant tiara rested upon her head.

“Bravo! Bravo!” Hoity-Toity cheered and clapped. “Magnifico! Encore!”

“Oh thank you, thank you!” Rarity thanked, joyfully.

We all gathered on the first floor of the shop, where everypony started to compliment each other. While I was smiled happily at them, Twilight gestured me to come to her, which I did anyway.

“Hey…”

“Hey…” I said nervously. Dang it, why am I so nervous.

“Listen, I’m sorry if I didn’t understood Rarity’s feelings, I should’ve known better.” Twilight said sadly.

“Hey, it’s okay, you didn’t know, and besides, we all make mistakes and try to learn from them. After all, that fashion show was beautiful, and it was a good thing nopony saw you and the others in those ugly gowns, you girls would’ve been the laughing stock of all of Ponyville, possible Equestria.” I said, shaking my head, which made Twilight chuckled.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right…Say, why not help me on today’s Friendship report?” Twilight asked.

“Sure, why not.” I shrugged as Twilight turned to Spike and began making a new letter to Princess Celestia.

“Dear Princess Celestia, this week, my very talented friend Rarity learned that, if you try to please everypony you oftentimes end up please nopony, especially yourself.”

“And I think five mares learned a valuable lesson.” I interrupted with a smirk. “When somepony offers to do you a favor, like making you a beautiful dress, you shouldn’t be overly critical of something generously given to you.”

“In other words.” Twilight said, giving me a smirk and a raised brow. “You shouldn’t look like a gift horse, or in this case, a gift ‘human’, in the mouth.”

“Hey!” I exclaimed, feeling quite insulted in that. Spike finished the letter and sent it on its way as its ashes zoomed out the window. Huh, still, how does he do that?

“Rarity, my congratulations to you on a most impressive fashion debut!” oity-Toity exclaimed happily. “Would you do me the great honor of allowing me to feature your couture in my best of the best boutique in Canterlot?”

Rarity gasped in both shock and joy upon hearing this kind of opportunity.

“Now, I’ll need for you to make a dozen of each dress and suit by next Tuesday.” Hoity-Toity added. Suddenly, a loud thump on the floor earned our attention as we looked down to see a fainted Rarity. Huh, guess the excitement might’ve gotten too much on her. “Was it something I said?” He asked in confusion. Soon enough, we all laughed upon this, having a good time of our lives.

“You know Ren, this was worth it.” Kodi said, happily wagging his tail.

“You said it bud, though you look good with that hat and bow.” I complimented with a smirk.

“And not so bad yourself, Ren.” Kodi said, smiling while gazing at my suit.

“Thanks, but…don’t try to rip it apart again, Kodiak.” I said, which made Kodi smiled sheepishly. Three seconds later, we started laughing too. Ooh, it’s such a good day for us. I just hope this Grand Galloping Gala is worth to see and go.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 15 - Feeling Pinkie Keen
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Break!” I shouted as fired another shot at the red and white target, destroying.

“Wow, never seen you practice before.” Kodi said, amazed by the Hacking Gun’s powers.

“Well, it was nothing Kodi, I haven’t been using it for a while since there hasn’t been a threat for a while.” I shrugged as I aimed at another target and shot Paralyze at it, causing it to be electrocuted before exploding. “Then again, it’s quite fun to use this thing.”

So anyway, It was another fine day in Ponyville, as I was practicing with my Hacking Gun while also training Kodiak to be a good pup, even though he kinda is, while Twilight and Spike work on a new spell. After I finished up my training and teaching Kodiak some basics tricks. We turned to see Spike posed, with a rock on his head, some leaves around his neck, and holding a stick. Twilight grunted, her horn shining, as she cast a spell, turning the leaves into a nice little tuxedo jacket and a complete red bowtie. Dang, that's awesome! I wished I could do magic...oh wait, I have my Hacking Gun, but I haven't used it for a while.

"Wow, that's so cool!" Kodi said, awed by how powerful Twilight is.

"Thanks Kodi." Twilight said, petting Kodi on the head as she continued "Now, watch this!" She concentrated again, her horn shining, and shot a beam at Spike, transforming his stick into a fancy cane.

Spike smiled as he looked at it and his new tux. "Awesome!" He exclaimed in joy.

"Eyes over here, Spike!" Twilight called out.

"Uh, sorry." Spike said as he resumed his pose.

"So why does he need to stay in position, Twilight?" I asked curiously.

"Because Ren..." Twilight began another lecture, per usual. "For this to work, it's crucial to keep my concentration-"

Suddenly. the rock that was on Spike's head magically turned into a top silk hat. Well for a few seconds because the hat was transformed back into a rock and fell on his head, hurting him. The magic soon quickly wore off of the tux and cane as they were both turned back into their original forms.

"Well, better luck next time, I guess..." I muttered, smiling sheepishly at Twilight, who made a stern expression.

"Spike! This magic needs my full attention to make it happen!" Twilight snapped. "There's no other way."

"I can't help it." Spike said as he pointed up. "Look!" Huh? Now what? We all looked and saw a familiar pink face, as she poked her head out from a thin tree.

"Oh hey Pinkie, how you doing?" I asked, smiling towards the pink pony. Although, I was quite confused on how did she hide her body from that thin body. But then again, I remember the other mares telling me not to question Pinkie's randomness, but although, I am curious to know why.

"Hey, what's up with that weird hat on your head?" Kodi asked curiously, but Pinkie ignored him as she looked up at the sky. She quickly jumped over to hide in a nearby bush, slid under a raised platform porch, and somehow slipped under a boulder, all the while keeping an eye on the sky.

I chuckled upon seeing what Pinkie is doing. "Good old Pinkie Pie..." I muttered.

"Super extra Pinkie today." Kodi added. Pinkie then tip-toed out when her tail started twitching. Wait, how did she do that?

“Pinkie?” I called out to her, but she still ignored me.

“Pinkie Pie, what in the wide-wide world of Equestria are you up to?” Twilight asked as we walked over her.

“The twitching means my Pinkie Sense is telling me stuff’s gonna start falling!” Pinkie said. “You should all be ducking for cover!” We all looked at each other in confusion on what was she bambling about.

“Pinkie…what are you talking about-” I was cut-off as something slimy and green fell into my face.

“Ribbit!”

“Huh?” I picked up on what was on my face and became surprised to see a frog to just land on my face. Kodi snickered upon the frog hopping onto my face while I just raised a brow at it. “Where did you come from, little guy?”

“Oh, I’m so, so sorry!” We turned to Fluttershy flying while pulling a tiny wagon filled with frogs, that she was carrying saddlebags and a basket to carry the rest, including one on her head. “Are you alright, Ren?”

“Y-yeah, I’m good!” I said smiling towards her as I gave her back her little frog friend.

“Fluttershy, what’s up with the frogs?” Kodi asked.

“Oh, you see, I just couldn’t stand to see the pond getting crowded, what with the frogs hopping into each other and all? So I decided to take as many as I can to a new home at Froggy Bottom Bog.” Fluttershy explained.

“Huh, I see now.” I said, not minding about the frog jumping onto my face. “Well just be careful, alright?”

“Don’t worry Ren, I’ll be alright.” Fluttershy smiled sweetly before taking her leave.

“Well, it’s a good thing that I didn’t get a…frog…in my face.” Twilight said as she shuttered in fear.

“Yeah but…I feel like I heard about the place Fluttershy mentioned…” Kodi said in thought.

“Hmm? You heard of that place?” I asked curiously.

“Well yeah, in case you forgot that I traveled around Equestria for four months in search for a friend and for my parents.” Oh, that’s right. He did say that back when we first met. Still sadden upon hearing that many ponies flee from him upon knowing his ability and that his parents would just leave him as a pup. “Besides, that was pretty amazing, Pinkie!”

“Yeah.” Spike agreed. “Pinkie Pie predicted something would fall, and it did!”

“Oh come on.” Twilight said, shaking her head and rolling her eyes. “She said something would fall and a frog just happened to fall a little after she said so, a coincidence! Nothing else to it.”

“Oh Twilight.” I chuckled. “You can’t honestly believe that? Besides, like that one guy I saw in that movie said… ‘There’s no such thing as a Coincidence’.

“But wait, isn’t coincidence a word?” Kodi asked, oblivious to know that quote.

“Well actually Kodi, it is a word, but people use that word when you're solving mysteries and such, if you know what I mean.” I explained it to him, only to further Kodi’s confusion.

“My tail, my til!” We turned to Pinkie, whose tail started twitching again. “Twitcha-twich, twitcha-twitch! Something else is gonna fall!”

Me, Spike, and Kodi looked up to analyze the sky, just in case. Twilight just scoffed and kept walking and said “Oh Pinkie please! Nothing else is gonna fa-AUGGGH!”

What the?! We looked to see Twilight had just fallen into a ditch. Wait, how could we not see that coming?

“Well…that’s both awesome and weird at the same time.” I said, impressed by how Pinkie predicted that. “But are you okay Twilight?”

“Do I look okay Ren?” Twilight asked, giving me a glare. I smiled sheepishly at her as Spike turned to Pinkie with a worried expression.

“Is it safe to go help her?”

“It’s okay, my tail stopped twitching.” Pinkie assured before throwing away her umbrella hat and trotting off merrily. Sometimes, I’ll never understand that mare.

I used my Hacking Gun and shot ‘Move’ to levitate Twilight back up, who was feeling ache after falling into that ditch.

“Ha Ha! That was amazing!” Spike laughed out.

“Yeah, I didn’t know Pinkie could even do that at all!” Kodi agreed.

“Oh please.” Twilight muttered angrily. “I told you guys, it’s nothing but a coincidence.”

“Come on Twilight.” I said, rolling my eyes while smirking at her. “You just have to accept that the impossible is possible.”

“Oh please Ren.” Twilight said, glaring at me. “You’ll believe in anything that’s unusual.”

“Well you’re talking to someone who reads many manga's and played many video games, so yeah, my imagination is pretty big.” I gave her a toothy grin, much to Twilight’s annoyance.

“Um…Twilight?” We turned to see Applejack walking towards us, giving us a curious expression. “Why were you hanging out in a ditch?”

“Because Pinkie Pie predicted it!” Spike answered loudly.

“Yeah, with that Pinkie Sense of hers!” Kodi added.

“Honestly, Spike, she did not.” Twilight said sternly. “Two coincidences in a row like this may be unlikely but it’s still easier to believe than twitchy tails that predict the future.”

“Twitchy tail?! The Pinkie Sense?!” Applejack gasped as she bolted underneath a cart full of corn and carrots. This caused me to raise a brow at her, does she know about this as well?

“It’s alright Applejack, the prediction came true.” I reassured her.

“Oh no, Applejack, please don’t tell me you believe in his stuff too?” Twilight asked.

“I know it doesn’t make much sense, Twi’.” Applejack said. “But those of us who’ve lived in Ponyville long enough eventually learned if Pinkie’s a twitching you better listen.”

“Okay…” I muttered. I wonder if everypony who lives in Ponyville might know of this?

Suddenly, Pinkie popped out of nowhere like usual, as her ears started to act funny. “My ears are flapping, my ears are flapping!”

“YIKES!” Kodi and Spike hid behind me in me. “W-what does that mean?!” Kodi asked, fearfully.

“I’ll start a bath for you!” Pinkie exclaimed as she looked at Twilight with a sympathetic expression. Twilight couldn’t help but laugh at that, as Kodi and Spike started to back away from her while I just stood there in confusion.

“A what?” I asked her.

“A bath, Rennie! You don’t know what that is?” Pinkie asked, appearing behind me.

“I know what it is but…what do you mean by that?” I asked curiously while Twilight finished up her laughter.

“Oh please, a bath?!” Twilight asked. Suddenly, I saw a pony galloping with a cart full of hay behind him, and it looks like he’s going past that big mud puddle…

Oh crap! “This keeps getting more ridiculous-”

“Twilight, watch out!” I exclaimed as I pushed her out of the way, and gotten mud on myself. Eww, disgusting. I feel like a pig who was busy playing in the mud puddles. Look at me, I gotten mud on my face, hair, and my clothes, well except the Hacking Gun, that’s for sure.

“R-Ren, are you okay?” Twilight asked in concern.

I smiled sheepishly at her and said “Don’t worry Twilight, I’m okay. Just a little…”

“Muddy?” Kodi suggested.

“Yeah…”

“C’mon, Ren! Let’s get you all nice and clean!” Pinkie exclaimed, grabbing my hoof and took me….to who knows where I can get a bath.





Meanwhile

Well…this is awkward. I was in the bathtub in Sugarcube Corner. Apparently, Pinkie lives here in this sweet shop, well it was pretty lucky to her to live here and eat all the sweets, cakes, and candies as much as she want.

Anyway, Pinkie had me in a tub full with water and bubbles as I got the mud off of me. I even handed them my clothes, which somehow, Pinkie managed to wash and dry them off. This mare is the strangest one I’ve ever met so far…

“I’m really sorry that I got covered in mud Ren…” Twilight apologized.

“Nah, it’s okay…” I replied as Pinkie came in with some more vials of bubble soap on her head. “So Pinkie, how does our Pinkie Sense work? Just in case I won’t up end up like this again.” I said, blushing in embarrassment because I’m in a bathtub with two girls with me, which is so awkward and weird.

“Oh, that’s easy!” Pinkie started to explained as she placed the vial on the floor. “Sooo, basically, it works like this: I get different, little, niggling feelings and they mean different things. Like when my back is itchy, it means it’s my lucky day. And, when my knee gets pinchy, that means something scary’s about to happen.”

“I see…wow, that’s incredible!” I exclaimed, admiring her ability. You know, with something like that, that’ll make someone invincible.

“Is your knee pinchy now?” Twilight asked.

“No, but my shoulder’s achy. That means there’s an alligator in the tub.”

“Wait what?” I asked. Pinkie dunked her head inside the water and pulled out an…

“GAAAH!” Me and Twilight screamed upon being frightened by a….baby alligator? Pinkie was holding the baby alligator with her teeth. Wait, was that little alligator inside that tub the whole time?!

“How come your knee didn’t get pinchy” Twilight screamed in fear. “That isn’t just scary, it’s downright dangerous!”

Pinkie placed the alligator on the floor and explained his presence. “No, it’s not, silly! This is my pet alligator, Gummy. He’s got no teeth. See?” Her put furiously attacked Pinkie’s whole body, but it was ineffective as he had only gums to show for it. Heh, that’s a pretty clever name for a baby alligator that has no teeth. “Haha!”

“Okay, Okay…I get it.” Twilight said as she calmed down and left the bathroom. After I was done, Pinkie hand me a towel as I wrapped it around my waist. Soon after, I headed for the dressing closet and put my clothes back on. Thirty seconds later, I came out with my newly clean clothes, same as usual like the blue hoodie sweater, black sweats, red and white shoes, including my Hacking Gun that I put behind me .

“Wow, you look better than ever Ren!” Pinkie complimented me.

“Thanks Pinkie.” I said as we exited out of the dressing room and headed back downstairs where Kodi, and Twilight were waiting.  Kodi were busy eating some sweets while they waited for me to be done in the bath.

“Oh hey Ren, done already?” Kodi asked.

“Yeah, I’m feeling okay now.”

“Cake?” Kodi offered. I nodded and took a bite of it. Hmm, it taste so good, that cheered me up a lot. We left to shop and decided to take a walk around the place. While walking, I decided to a little talk with my friends.

“You know, I have to say Pinkie, this Pinkie Sense of yours is quite an amazing talent you have.” I smiled towards her.

“Ahh, thanks Rennie!” Pinkie said happily.

“Well I still don’t believe all this…special power stuff, it’s nothing but a lot of mumbo-jumbo.”  Twilight argued.

“What’s not to believe? You do magic, what’s the difference?” Pinkie asked, feeling a bit offended by that.

“Huge! For one thing…” Twilight exclaimed, ignoring me and Kodi giving her looks of disappointment. She still won’t accept it, I mean come on. Twilight then moved some items off a box and stood on top of it. She then cleared her throat and said “Magic is something you study and practice. It only happens when you decided to do it, and it’s meant to make something specific that you choose to happen, happen. With you, uh…it makes no sense at all!”

“But Twilight, you can’t deny on how she predicted those things that happen to both you and Ren.” Kodi replied.

“Yeah, besides, you can’t keep denying that the impossible is possible.” I shrugged, which Twilight glared at us.

“They’re right Twilight!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Sometimes it’s a bunch of random things happening to my body at random times that supposedly predict the future. I call them ‘combos’.”

“Combos?” Twilight, Kodi, and I asked in unison.

“Sure!” Pinkie hopped merrily after us. “You know, like, ear flop, then knee twitch, then eye flutter. That means the sky is about to be graced with a beautiful rainbow!”

“Really?” Kodi asked in awe.

“Yep!” Pinkie nodded. So wait, she can even predict when a rainbow would come. That’s…even more amazing!

“Yeah, sure…” Twilight muttered, shaking her head.

“Uh oh…” Me and Kodi looked at Pinkie, who began to act strange all of a sudden. “I feel a combo coming on. Ear flop, eye flutter, knee twitch!” Pinkie started to do those exact things, causing me and Kodi to look around up at the sky while Twilight just gave her a look, only for her to get slammed in the face by the door by Spike opening, who was carrying some books. He seems to not noticed what had just happened as he continue his way.

“Twilight, are you alright?” I asked in concern, rushing over to her as she lay on the floor in front of her door, almost flat as a pancake.

“Wait? I thought you said that combo would bring a beautiful rainbow?” Kodi asked.

“Oh no-no-no-no-no.” Pinkie corrected him, shaking her head. “You’re talking about ear flap, knee twitch, then eye flutter. This one was ear flap, then eye flutter, then knee twitch, that usually means ‘look out for opening doors’.”

“Huh, that’s really weird, but really awesome at the same time.” I said, smiling sheepishly asI I helped Twilight get back up.

“I don’t believe this….” Twilight muttered in annoyance.

“You don’t believe it because you don’t understand it.” Pinkie corrected, causing Twilight to be deep in thought. Oh boy, don’t tell me that she’s gonna try to solve this? This mare is quite…stubborn to even believe that they’re some things that you have to believe.





Later

Me and Kodi were at Twilight’s home, waiting for her and Pinkie to come out of the basement since I got nothing else to do besides this mange of mine I brought with me, just in case I got bored. I love reading books but I mostly prefer Manga’s anytime. I was busy reading another volume of DBZ, and right into the Android Saga. Kodi was sleeping on my lap, as he got so tired of waiting that he decided to go take a nap.

Suddenly, I heard the door open and saw Spike entered. “Oh hey Spike, where were you?”

“I just had to do some errands, so where’s Twilight?” Spike asked, looking around to find the purple unicorn.

“She’s downstairs apparently with Pinkie to try and solve that Pinkie Sense mystery.” I replied, putting my Manga back into my pockets and settling Kodi down gently, not trying to wake him up.

“Well, it is a mystery.” Spike agreed. “But then again, it’s quite amazing.”

“You can say that again, with that kind of talent, you might even win the lottery or become the luckiest guy or pony in the world.” I smiled, imagining what would it be like to have that Pinkie Sense.

“Yeah, but too bad Twilight won’t accept it.” Spike shrugged, which caused me to frown a little.

“Yeah about that. Twilight, has she ever been so….stubborn?”

“Yeah, Twilight always been the one for ‘facts and logic’.” Spike explained as he air-quoted that last part with his fingers.

“I see…” I muttered as I got up from the chair and headed downstairs. “I’ll be right back, I just need to speak with Twilight about this.” I walked downstairs and opened a door that lead into the basement. I saw Pinkie bounce past me, much to my surprise.

“Hey Pinkie, have you seen Twilight?”

“Uh-huh.” She replied with a nod before leaving the room.

“Okay, but where is she then?” I called back to her, but she didn’t hear me. Strange, I could’ve sworn Twilight was here. Suddenly, I heard a groan coming from behind the door. I closed the door and became shocked to see Twilight, flat like a pancake again. “Twilight, are you okay?”  I asked in concern.

Twilight got back up again and glared at me. “Did you two plan this?!”

“Plan what?” I asked in confusion.

“Ergh, this can’t be happening, it makes no sense!” Twilight complained. “I have to figure this out!”

“You know Twilight.” I spoke up, with a serious expression. “You need to accept it and stop denying that Pinkie is special and has a special ability that allows her to do…anything.” I shrugged, making a soft smile. “So, you just need to consider on what I said earlier ago, that the impossible is possible.” I said as I opened the door and headed out.

“I will know Pinkie’s secret, and I will not rest until I figure this out.” Twilight vowed, which caused me to shake my head in disappointment. Twilight, why can’t you just accept it?





Me and Kodiak were back at home as we were laying down on the couch, taking a nap. I was still thinking about Twilight not accepting the Pinkie Sense but still, can’t she just accept it and stop being so stubborn? If she keeps trying so hard to research more about the Pinkie Sense, I feel like she would up getting hurt.

“Hey Ren…” I looked up to see Kodiak looking at me in a worried expression. “Do you think Twilight will be alright?”

“I hope so…I just can’t help but feel like that she might be pushing herself too far to try to get to know more about the Pinkie Sense.” I said, getting up from the couch.

“Yeah…” Suddenly, we heard a knock on the door, which made put on my shoes and walked over to the door. I opened it, revealing Twilight, Applejack, Spike, and Pinkie, who seemed to be shivering..a lot.

“Girls? What are you doing here?” I asked.

“Ren, we need to go and save Fluttershy! NOW!” Twilight exclaimed.

“W-what are you talking about? What happen to Fluttershy?!” I asked in worried.

“Do you remember when she said that she was heading over to Froggy Bottom Bog?”

“Yeah, why?”

“Froggy Bottom Bog is actually apart of the Everfree Forest!” Wait what?! Oh no!

“Oh, now I know why that name is so familiar!” Kodi exclaimed in shock.

“And you’re telling us this NOW?!” I exclaimed.

“Look, we’ll explain everything Ren!” Applejack said. “We need to go and save Fluttershy before it’s too late!”

“Okay!” I said as I went back inside and grabbed my Hacking Gun, before turning to Kodiak. “Stay here boy.”

“Um..okay?” Kodi nodded me and the girls headed out towards the Everfree Forest.





We finally arrived inside the Everfree Forest and made our way into the bog.

“So…care to explain on how did you girls knew about this until now?!” I asked.

“Well…” Twilight began to explain what happen. “I was following wherever Pinkie Pie would go and I gotten some trouble from her randomness.” Why am I not surprise that would be something Twilight would do? “And as soon as she met up with Applejack, Pinkie knew all along that I was following her and didn’t say anything say because she didn’t want to spoil the secret. But then, she started to shiver and she said something about a doozy, meaning something you’d never expect to happen is gonna happen at Froggy Bottom Bog!”

“Well I just hope she doesn’t end becoming a monster’s lunch or something!” I exclaimed. I just hope Fluttershy is alright. Suddenly, Pinkie began shuddering again.

“So…what you think happened to Fluttershy?” Spike asked.

“I hope nothing!” Applejack responded.

“I know but…but what you think happened?

“I’m trying to not think about it.”

“Me too…but I’m thinking about it anyway.” Spike said, worriedly. “Like, what if she exploded?!”

“Just exploded?” I asked, raising a brow. That’s the only thing you can think of, Spike?

“Yeah, like…BOOM!”

“Whoa!” Pinkie agreed.

“I know, right?”

“What if…” Pinkie thought for a while until she said. “What if she exploded, and then exploded again?!”

“Can you do that?!” Spike asked in shock. “Can you explode twice?!’

“What? Of course not!” I exclaimed in a deadpanned expression. “There’s no way she can explode twice!”

“But what if-” Spike winced in pain as Twilight stepped on his tail, giving him a stern glare. 

“Would you two stop it?! I am sure she’s fine!” Twilight exclaimed.

“I hope you're right, for Fluttershy’s sake.” Applejack responded before turning back to the path. “Look, there’s Froggy Bottom Bog!” She yelled as we finally arrived to the place. Wow, No wonder why its called Froggy Bottom Bog, it’s full of frogs, millions of them hanging out around the lake, and it stank of peat moss and whatever else was around the murky waters.

“Oh sweet jesus!” I huffed as I tried to fan away the stink. “Who knew a bog can be this rank!”

“Fluttershy!” Applejack called out. Me and the others did so as well as we tried to fanned out for our friend. Where could she be? I walked around and saw Pinkie looked beneath a lily pad when out of nowhere, a frog hopped onto it. I looked past Pinkie and saw…

“Fluttershy!” I exclaimed as I ran over and hugged her. “You’re okay!”

“Of course,” Fluttershy replied, a little surprise as the others all closed in.

“Phew, what a relief.” Applejack sighed.

“I’m so glad everything’s alright!” Pinkie added.

“I’m sorry, I know it’s not nice to gloat but…” Twilight gave us a smirk. “I told you all there was nothing to worry about! Pinkie Pie said that whatever she was shuddering about-”

Suddenly, some kind of green mist fogged up around us, causing us to cough. What the heck?

“A doozy and-” Twilight started coughing from the green mist she inhaled. “The only doozy is how right I am.”

“Hey, where did this fog come from?” I asked myself. Suddenly, I noticed Spike, Applejack, Pinkie, and Fluttershy looked up and widening their eyes. I became confused and looked at what they saw-

Oh crap-baskets…

“Um…Twilight…” I muttered in shock and fear.

“Pinkie’s made a lot of predictions today but-” Twilight started coughing again. “What is that smell? But what we’ve seen here is there’s no point in believing you can’t see for yourself.”

“Well for once Twilight, I agree!” I said as I went over to her and pointed her head up, as she widened her eyes upon seeing a giant four-headed monster, each glaring angrily at us.

“I see it…but I don’t believe it!” Twilight said in dawning horror.

“W-what is that thing?!” I exclaimed as the four-headed monster yelled in anger.

“IT’S A HYDRA! RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!” Twilight screamed as we began to run away in fear, but the Hydra began to chase after us. I think I heard of that name once, wait, of course, Hercules! I remember watching it from when I was six, I don’t remember much about it, but I know that this Hydra is the same one from the movie. Me and my friends just need to run away from that thing and survive, while also trying to defeat it as well.

“Everypony, up that hill!” Twilight exclaimed, but then we saw Spike struggling to free himself of the thick boggy water, the hydra started to get closer to him.

“Quick Twilight, get Spike! I’ll buy you all some time!” I yelled. Twilight didn’t hesitant and just nod as we ran after our friend.

As Twilight freed Spike, I brought out my Hacking Gun and shot ‘Break’ at it I then adjust the dial to ‘Break’ at it, but it swatted my attack away with one of its head. I kept shooting Break over and over, but it four heads keep dodging it or deflecting it.

“Oh come on!” I exclaimed. "Hold still already!"

“Forget it Ren!” Twilight yelled. “Just run!”

I let out a grunt and began running with the mares away from the Hydra as it roared at us from behind.

“For a giant monster, it sure knows how to dodge.” I exclaimed.

“Well even if you hit it, the Hydra will grow another head.” Twilight said, much to my confusion. “What? Don’t you know that Hydra’s are known for their power of Regeneration?” I widened my eyes upon realizing that. I forgot in Hercules, that the monster kept growing more and more heads no matter how many times Hercules kept destroying and slicing it.

“….Oh crap-baskets…” I muttered, remembering about it now.

“Why’s Pinkie still shuddering?” Spike pointed out. Pinkie was indeed shuddering and oddly keeping up with the others when she came to a halt.

“Oh look it that, it stopped. O-o-ohhhh, t-t-there i-i-is a-a-a-again!” Pinkie exclaimed, shivering like crazy.

We soon came to a cliff and the only way across was six pillars of rock, and we heard some thundering footsteps behind us.

“He’ll be up here in no time!” Twilight exclaimed, turning to us. “Quick, one at a time, everypony cross!”

“Um…” I turned to Spike, who was peering over the edge. “Twilight, do you know how to turn a Hydra into a mouse?”

“No.” Twilight responded, looking down the hill.

“How about a squirrel, or maybe a chipmunk?” I suggested, nervously.

“No!”

‘How about-“

“No small rodents of any kind!” Twilight snapped, cutting Spike off.

“…What about a cat?” I suggested, which made Twilight growl in anger at me. “What? I was just saying…”

“JUST CROSS!” Twilight screamed. Alright, alright, jeez…sorry.   Fluttershy went first, Twilight throwing Spike so he’d make it, but Twilight and I noticed our ever-approaching enemy.

“He’s coming too close!” I called as Fluttershy and Spike made it to the other side.

Applejack made her way across, taking Pinkie by the tail. Oh great, we won’t make it in time if that Hydra comes to us right now. Well, only thing to do!

“Twilight, get across and go!” I said, much to Twilight’s shock.

“B-but Ren-”

“Just go! I’ll handle it myself!” I exclaimed as I took out my Megaphone Hacking Gun. Twilight hesitate at first but nodded and went to go across to the other side. The hydra came and tried to attack me, but I dodged and shot ‘Break’ at it, but it swatted it away again.

What is going on? I never have trouble with the other monsters and villains me and my friends faced. Could it be that I need more training with my Hacking Gun and my skills or…this Hydra was too smart to keep dodging and countering my attacks?

“Dang it! Stop doing that!” I shot ‘Burn’ at it, but it breathed fire right back it, destroying it. I widened my eyes upon seeing this. Great, this thing can breath fire as well, you got to be kidding me! “Alright, this is bad, how did Hercules defeat this thing again?” My thoughts were cut-off as the Hydra came attacking, causing me to barely dodged the attack. The attack however, widened the gap between the edge and the first stone pillar, which toppled the second, then third, and the fourth. Great, just great now.

The hydra roared in anger again as it was about to attack me until it was shot my a powerful magic beam. Wait, who shot that?

“Ren!” I turned around to see…

“Twilight?!” Twilight ran to my side with a worried expression. “What are you doing here? I thought you crossed the other side?!”

“I was about to, but I was afraid you wouldn’t make it in time, so I had to go and help you.” Twilight explained. Twilight, that was so nice of you but now we’re going to die.

The Hydra got back up and glared at us before roaring in anger and pain because of the bump on one of its head.

“T-T-Twilight! R-R-Ren!” We turned around to see Pinkie, who was still shivering. “You two have to jump!”

“What?! But we’ll never make it!” Twilight shouted.

“You’ll be fine!” Pinkie assured.

“No we won’t!” Twilight insisted by the Hydra started coming coming towards us.

“Twilight, we got no choice!” I exclaimed. “It’s the leap of faith, we can do this!”

“I-I-It’s y-y-your o-o-only h-h-hope!” Pinkie added with a shudder.

We looked at each other and let out a nod. Twilight gulped nervously as we backed up for a running start. Please, don’t let us die. I breathed in and out to calm my nerves until we heard the Hydra getting closer. Soon, me and Twilight began running as hard as we could. Before we could reach the ledge, the Hydra’s attack knocked the ground we were standing upon into the air. Twilight and I leapt, sailing across the pillar, but…we missed.

“AAAAAH!” Me and Twilight screamed in terror as we fell into our doom. Dang it, I should’ve brought my Hover-board! Well, it was fun as it lasted. As we continue to fall, I…felt like I had a flash before my eyes experience. Remembering the times I spent with my family, the good and bad times, it was so fun, and I never gotten the chance to see them..one more time…

Suddenly, my thoughts were cut-off as we landed onto something squishy, before being launched back up in the air and before you know it, we made it to the other side.

“W-what the…?” I muttered as I got back up slowly, and became relieved to see my friends again. Twilight then got back up and became joyed to see us too.

“Twilight! Ren! You guys are okay!” Spike said, hugging us.

“It’s good to see you all too.” I said, trying to catch my breath.

“I knew you could it do it, Twilight and Ren!” Pinkie cheered.

“Well, I don’t know how it happened; coincidence, dumb luck, or what.” Twilight sighed as she hugged me, Pinkie, and Spike. “But you said there’d be a doozy in Froggy Bottom Bog, and I’d say we had one hay of a doozy. I mean, that hydra-”

Twilight was cut-off as Pinkie started to shuddered again.

“What’s wrong, Pinkie?” I asked in worried.

“That wasn’t it.” Pinkie said, much to our shock.

“What wasn’t?” Spike asked.

“What are you taking about Pink?” Applejack demanded.

“The Hydra wasn’t the doozy.” Pinkie replied in a bewildered tone. I turned back to the Hydra, which one of its head spat a raspberry at us before taking its leave. Wow, even for a big scary monster, it acts like a little kid. “I’m still getting the shudder! Oo-o-oh, oo-o-oh! See, there it is again! Whatever the doozy was at Froggy Bottom Bog, my Pinkie Sense says it still hasn’t happened.”

“What?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“Wha…But I…What?!” Twilight snapped, shocked as I was. “The Hydrea wasn’t the doozy? How could it not be the doozy?! What could be more…doozier than that?!”

“Dunno, but it just wasn’t it.” Pinkie shrugged. Twilight’s eyes twitch as she gritted her teeth, her ears blowing steam, and when she jumped, her mane and tail burst into flames, her eyes full of anger. Holy cow! Now I know to never upset a girl ever! So this is what Princess Celestia meant, that she goes crazy whenever she encounters something that she can’t solve. We were looking at her nervously as the flames died down, her mane and tail and coat a tad scorched for who knows why.

“I give up!” Twilight sighed in defeat/

“Give what up, Twilight?” I asked in concern.

“The fight! I can’t fight it anymore…” Twilight said in depression. “I don’t understand, how, why, or what, but Pinkie Sense somehow…makes sense!” So wait, is she accepting the Pinkie Sense now? “I don’t see how it does, but it just does. You were right, Ren…I should’ve accepted it so sooner, and that the impossible is possible.”

“Y-y-you m-m-mean you b-b-believe?” Pinkie asked, continuing to shudder.

“Yup, I guess I do…” Twilight sighed in sadness.

Suddenly, Pinkie shuddered faster, before popping, inflating, stretching, twisting..Okay, this mare is the craziest one I’ve ever encounter so far in Equestria. Pinkie then went back to normal as she looked over herself before gasping.

“That was it! That’s the doozy!”

“Huh?!” Me and Spike asked with open mouths and raised brows.

“What?” Twilight asked as well.

“You believing.” Pinkie explained. “I never expected to happen! That was the doozy, and oh what a doozy of a doozy it was!” Pinkie then began trotting away merrily. “La-la-la-la-la…”

We all just stood there, with deadpanned expressions.

“…Sometimes, I’ll never understand her…” I muttered.

Everypony muttered in agreement before we all started laughing as we followed after Pinkie. You know, I just realized something, if it wasn't for Pinkie's Pinkie Sense, we wouldn't been able to save Fluttershy, even if Pinkie said that the Hydra wasn't the doozy. Something tells me in the near future that her Pinkie Sense might come in handy.





Later on, I returned home, where I was jumped on and been licked by Kodiak, who was extremely both worried and happy to see me again. He asked what happen back at Froggy Bottom Bog, and I told him everything, Pinkie’s Doozy, the Hydra, Fluttershy and the others being okay, and Twilight finally believing the Pinkie Sense about time. Kodi was shocked to hear that I faced against a Hydra, but I reassured him that I was alright, but I am never going back to the Everfree Forest ever again. But…I was glad to be back home with my little best puppy friend.

Soon after, we decided to head back to Ponyville for some lunch. “I still can’t believe that you faced off a Hydra!” Kodiak exclaimed.

“I know bud, but please calm down. I really don’t want to think about facing off that thing again.” And maybe I should find my Hercules movie in the closet and watch it, just in case to know the Hydra’s weakness, and maybe train harder.

“Sorry, but man, I wished I would’ve been there.” Kodi sighed. Oh trust me, you don’t want to be there…

We approached the Golden Oak Library as soon as Pinkie and Twilight came out, both of them wearing umbrella hats. I couldn’t help but smile at her, she finally admitted to it and now her bond with Pinkie is increasing. They noticed me as I raised a brow and made a smirk.

“Twitchy tail?” I guessed.

“Uh-huh.” Pinkie replied as her tail started twitching. “There it goes again!”

“I wonder what’s gonna drop out of the sky this time.” Twilight wondered.

“You never know.” Pinkie said with a giggle as she and Twilight walked off, waving goodbye to me and Kodi.

“I wonder what is gonna fall?” Kodi asked, tilting his head. I shrugged as we continue our way to find a good place to eat, until we heard and saw Spike opening the window, who was about to send off another of Twilight’s friendship report, but as he was about to do that, we heard a descending whistle and from out of the sky dropped Princess Celestia.

“Whoa!” Me and Kodi shouted in surprise to see her here.

“Um…Twitchy tail?” Spike muttered in confusion. Celestia just smiled and took the report before flying off as Spike just smiled and gasped. “Holy guacamole!” Me and Kodiak looked at each other before laughing upon seeing what just happen. I’m guessing that’s what was about to fall from the sky, and what a twist that was.

“Wow, that Pinkie Sense sure is something Ren.” Kodi commented.

“Sure is Kodiak…sure is.” I smiled as I looked at the sky as I began to wondered what more adventures are awaiting for me in Equestria.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 16 - Sonic Rainboom
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was another day at Equestria as I was on the couch, playing Pac-Man on the Xbox One, and since I'm the master of video games, I was doing well, but with one life left.

"Wow, you're very good in this game." Kodi commented.

"Yeah, I've been practicing a lot, and I'm starting to do exceedingly well. After all Kodi, I am the master of games, or maybe you should call me-" Suddenly, the three ghosts cornered me and had already killed, getting me a Game Over. "Oh dang it!"

"Well better luck next time, I guess." Kodi said, making an assuring smile.

I let out a sigh and made a soft smile at him. "Yeah, I guess so..." I rubbed him on his belly, much to his joy. Suddenly, I noticed Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash outside, talking about something. "Oh hey, it's Rainbow and Fluttershy." I said, happy to see them. You know, seeing Dash flying, it wants me to try out my hover-board again, I never tested it since the dragon incident back then. Maybe Dash can show me some of her moves.

I headed towards my room and into the closet and grabbed my board and headed outside, but not before realizing that I wasn't wearing any shoes. "Oops!" I muttered as I headed back inside and put my shoes back on. "Come on Kodiak, let's go!"

"Okay!" Kodi nodded as we headed out to meet up with Fluttershy and Rainbow.

"Alright, now, what have we learned?" Rainbow asked as she paced in the air.

"Lots of control." Fluttershy answered, feeling confident. Huh? Wonder what's up?

"Good." Rainbow nodded.

"Scream and hollering."

"Yes, and most importantly?"

"Passion!"

Right!" Rainbow said as she landed on the ground. "So now that you know the elements of a good cheer, let's hear one." Cheer? As in cheering?

Fluttershy took a breath in and yelled "Yay!" very quietly in a soft tone.

Rainbow let out a disapproving expression at her and said "...Ugh! You're gonna cheer for me like that? Louder."

"Yay!" Fluttershy gave it another shot, but the volume remained the same.

"Louder!"

"Yay!"

"Louder!" Rainbow screamed.

Fluttershy took a large and deep breath and let out a "Yay!" Oh well, at least she tried.

"Ugh..." Rainbow hoof-faced on her forehead and fell backwards.

"Too loud?" Fluttershy asked in worried.

"I...don't think that's why Fluttershy." I said, sweat-dropping and smiling sheepishly. Rainbow and Fluttershy became surprised to see me.

"Oh, Ren! Hello!" Fluttershy waved happily to see me.

"Oh hey Ren, Kodi!" Rainbow waved to us. "So what are you doing here?"

"Oh, we just saw you outside and thought that maybe you can teach me some tricks of yours?" I asked.

"That's nice, I like your spirit Ren!" Rainbow said with a smile before she frowned a little. "But I'm afraid that I got something important to do!"

"Really? What's that?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Rainbow is competing in the Best Flyers Competition." Fluttershy explained. "She's practicing for it right now, and asked me to cheer her on."

"I see, so I take it that its some sort of race?" I guessed.

"Nah!" Rainbow waved off. "It's a competition where you show off your moves and stuff, and I'm gonna win this competition!" Rainbow boasted.

"She's really determined, Ren..." Kodi whispered to me.

"You can say that again..." I said, rolling my eyes before turning back to Dash. "Well it makes sense, I know you're going to win it, Dash." I smiled happily towards her.

"Thanks Ren, I need all the encouragement!" Rainbow smiled. "But it's gonna take more than luck to win it! Besides, since you two are here, maybe you can help be my support? Then I can teach you my moves later."

I thought for a while as I put down my board. Hmm, I guess it would be a nice offer. "Okay, I'll do it!" I said in a determined expression.

"Yeah, me too!" Kodi added.

"Yeah, so will I Rainbow Dash! Yay!" Fluttershy cheered softly again.

"Right..." Rainbow then took a deep breath and bounced on the cloud. She began flying straight downwards but shot left before she hit the ground. She began maneuvering through a line of trees accurately, passing us like a rocket. A large gust of wind blew our hairs/manes while Fluttershy released another cheer. "Whoo-hoo!"

"Alright Dashie!" Kodiak cheered, more louder than Fluttershy's.

"You can do it Dash!" I cheered as well. Rainbow smiled happily at us and wink as she continue her pactice run. She shot upwards at an angle and did a few loops before flying straight toward us. She was significantly gaining speed and she continued to dash downwards. Fluttershy, Kodi, and I gaze in suspense as Rainbow was about to finish her performance.

Is she crying because I could've sworn that I just saw forming tears from her eyes. Suddenly, Rainbow started going fast that it broken the sound barrier with her speed. She had almost made it, but suddenly, Rainbow was suddenly bounced back and was launched towards the opposite direction.

"Whoa, that was...awesome!" Kodi jumped happily.

"Umm, I don't think that was suppose to happen." I said, feeling unsure of that was the way how Rainbow would've ended her trick.

Fluttershy then turned to us and said "C'mon Ren! Kodiak! Let's go follow her!" We nodded as Kodi jumped on Fluttershy's back as she started to fly towards where Rainbow crashed. I grabbed my board and flew as well to catch up towards her.





We finally arrived and found out that she landed in Twilight's home. Me, Kodi, and Fluttershy flew through the window and...Oh wow, this place is a mess.

"Rainbow Dash, you rock!" Fluttershy exclaimed softly. "Woo-hoo!" Fluttershy shook her hoof a little. However, she noticed the mess that Rainbow caused in Twilight's home; books were scattered everywhere. "Did my cheering do that?"

"Um...I don't think so, Fluttershy." I said, sweat-dropping.

"Wow, this place should really get cleaned up. Its like a tornado hit this place." Kodi commented.

"Gee..thanks." I overheard Twilight muttered.

"Hehe...Sorry about that ladies." Rainbow said as she recovered from the fall and stood up. "That was a truly feeble performance." She shook her head to relieve from the pain from the crash.

"Actually, it wasn't all that bad." I said, shrugging my shoulders.

"Yeah, I particularly liked it when you made the clouds spin." Fluttershy added.

"Ugh, I'm not talking about my performance, I'm talking about yours!" Rainbow pointed at Fluttershy. "That feeble cheering!"

"Hey, hold up Dash!" I said, trying to calm her down as I climbed down the bookshelves with Kodi on my shoulder. "Fluttershy tried her best, besides I thought it was cute." I said, as I noticed Fluttershy blushing lightly. Seriously, what is up with that?

"Cute? Cute!?" Rainbow scoffed. "You couldn't hear her if you right next to her in a library!"

"But...we are in a library." Kodi pointed out.

"What are you four arguing about?" We turned to Twilight and the others, who got back up from the fallen books on the ground.

"Were we arguing? I'm sorry." Fluttershy apologized.

Dash lowered her head sadly as she grunted and said "I wish you guys could come to Cloudsdale to see me compete in the Best Young Flyer Competition."

"What's that?" Twilight asked.

"And what's Cloudsdale?" I added. Suddenly, I was grabbed by Pinkie as she exclaimed "It's where all the greatest Pegasus flyers get together and show off their different flying styles! Some are fast!" She spun around in a circle through the clutter of books and created sounds like she was a racer in a race car track. "And some are graceful!" She balanced herself on one hoof, but soon lost balance. "Whoa, whooooAAAAH!" She crashed onto another pile of books.

"And Cloudsale is me and Rainbow Dash's home." Fluttershy answered my question. "It's a city of clouds on the top of the skies of Equestria. You can come with us, but only Pegasus and other creatures that can fly can go there." Fluttershy added with a sad look.

"Besides, even if you all managed to get there, you'll just end up falling through the clouds. We Pegasus ponies can walk on clouds, remember?" Rainbow reminded me.

"Oh right...but then again, that sounds pretty awesome!" I exclaimed in joy.

"Yeah, that sounds like fun!" Kodi added.

"You can say that again." Applejack agreed. "Golly, I'd love to see you strut your stuff in that competition."

"Yeah, I wish you guys could be there. Fluttershy's a great support, but her cheering isn't exactly inspirational." Rainbow explained as Fluttershy lowered her head a little in disappointment. I frowned upon hearing that from Dash. I mean, come on, she's trying the best she can.

"OOOH! I'd love to see you make a sonic rainboom! It's like, the most coolest thing ever!" Pinkie commented as she bounced around happily. "Even though I've never actually seen it, but I mean come on! It's a sonic Rainboom! How not cool could it possibly not be?"

Sonic Rainboom? Sonic..Rainboom. Sonic...Boom! Oh, clever name. That name reminded me of a certain blue hedgehog named Sonic. I love that character so much that I played all of his games, even his recently two released games, Sonic Mania and Sonic Forces. Though, everyone love Sonic Mania, but later became disappointed the moment they played Sonic Forces due to the levels and the story being too short. Oh well, maybe Sega can try better next time, and I just hope they maybe tried to do a remake of Sonic Forces, but this time, better! That is if I can manage to get back to my world, that is.

"What's a Sonic Rainboom?" Twilight asked, only for Pinkie to get up in her face.

"You really need to get out more." Pinkie said. "The Sonic Rainboom is legendary! When a Pegasus like Rainbow Dash gets going so fast...BOOM!" Pinkie crashed into another pile of books. Okay seriously? Where does that even come from? "A Sonic boom and a rainbow can happen all at once!"

"And Rainbow Dash here's the only pony to ever pull it off!" Applejack added.

"Really?" Kodi asked in excitement.

"Yeah, but that was a long time ago." Rainbow said, scratching her hood bashfully. "I was just a filly..."

"Wow, since when you were a filly?!" I asked in surprise. "That's amazing Dash, it sounds like you were born to be the fastest pony in all of Equestria." Rainbow blushed upon hearing that comment of mine.

"Thanks Ren, but my real dream is to become a Wonderbolt!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"A Wonderbolt?" Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion.

"She means that its a group of performers that are well known famous around Equestria." I answered him, which Kodi understood.

"So Dashie, you're gonna do it again, right?" Pinkie asked, hopefully.

"A-Are you kidding?" Rainbow scoffed, but I could feel her hesitate. She's not...nervous about this competition, right? I mean, she's Rainbow Dash, the bearer of the Element of Loyalty and the fastest Pegasi in all of Ponyville. Though, I can't blame her to be nervous. "I'm the greatest flyer to ever come out of Cloudsdale! I could do Sonic Rainbooms in my sleep."

"Wow." Twilight replied, impressed with Rainbow's confidence. "If you pull that off, you'll win the crown for usre!"

"I don't care about the crown, I want that grand prize!" Rainbow stated. "To spend a whole day hanging out with the Wonderbolts! A whole day of flying with my lifelong heroes! It'll be a dream come true!"

"Why am I not surprised for you to be excited about that?" I asked myself, shaking my head with a smile. "Besides, we'll be cheering for Dash."

"Thanks Ren." Rainbow nodded. "Now excuse me, I'm gonna go rest up. Don't wanna over prepare myself, you know. Hehe.." Strange, I could've I heard her chuckling nervously. "You, on the other hoof, better keep practicing!" Rainbow exclaimed, pointing towards at Fluttershy. "I need a cheering section to match my spectular performance."

And with that, Rainbow flew off, outside the window.

Fluttershy let out a sigh and turned to us. "She's practiced that move a hundred times, and she's never even come close to doing it." This caught me by surprise. Sounds to me Rainbow was too scared to admit it at us. Poor Dash..."I don't know if I can cheer loud enough to help her."

"Don't worry Fluttershy, I'm sure you can do it, you just gotta believe." I smiled towards her.

"Thanks Ren, well bye!" Fluttershy waved as she flew out of the window.

"Well, better get this place cleaned up...again.." Twilight sighed.

"Hey, don't worry, we'll help Twilight." Kodi offered as he tried to pick up a book with his teeth, but had a hard time doing so. I decided that I want to help Rainbow Dash but...I don't know where Cloudsdale is at. Rarity then let out a cough, grabbing our attention.

"Well, go on, go on." She said.

"Go on what?" Twilight asked, feeling annoyed.

"Find a spell that will get us wingless ponies..." Rarity then soon turned to me and Kodi. "And human, and talking dog into Cloudsdale."

"What?" Kodi asked.

"Didn't you see how nervous she was?" Rarity answered.

"Nervous?" Applejack asked, raising a brow. "Have you spit your bit or something? She was tooting her own horn louder than the brass section of a marching band!"

"Oh puh-lease!" Rarity scoffed, waving her hoof. "I've put on enough fashion shows to know stage fright when I see it! We've got to find a way to be there for her!"

"Well...she isn't wrong, she is a fashionista." I said, shrugging my shoulders as I settle down my board on a nearby table. "Besides, I want to be there and try to help her out from being nervous."

"Well, that's very nice of you Ren." Twilight smiled before frowning. "But how am I supposed to find a flight spell in this mess?" We looked around and realized that she was right, it was so much of a mess. How are we gonna find one?

"Flight spell? One sec!" Pinkie said as she streaked over another pile of books, before throwing a book to Twilight's feet. "Page twenty-seven."

"How'd you do that?" I asked in surprise before realizing one thing. She's Pinkie Pie of course, not after I learn that whole Pinkie Sense thing yesterday.

"It landed on my face when Rainbow Dash knocked me into the bookcase." She explained happily.

"Wow, that was both lucky and convenient." Kodi commented in surprise.

"You can say that again." I muttered, sweat-dropping while making a nervous smile.

"Here it is!" Twilight announced as she looked at the page. I looked over it and saw how it worked. "A Flight spell that will allow earth ponies to fly like a Pegasus. Ooh, it looks really difficult! I'm not sure I could do it."

"Well even so, we can at least give it a try." I shrugged.

"I guess..."

"Well hurry up! We got no time!" Rarity exclaimed. "You've got to try!"

"Well, alright, but who's gonna volunteer to be the test subject?" Twilight asked.

"I'll do it!" Kodi offered as he hopped up and down. "I've always wanted to fly like a Pegasi!"

"No, no, no!" I exclaimed. "I'm sorry Kodiak, but I won't allow that! I mean, we're not sure if its even safe to begin with!"

"Ahhh...." Kodi pouted. I gently rubbed his head, cheering him up a little. I don't something bad to happen to him and might cause him to be hurt or worse.

"Well then, I'll do it! For Rainbow Dash!" Rarity declared.

"Okay, just hold still." Twilight replied as she faced her horn at Rarity and began casting the spell. Her horn released a faded glow as she closed her eyes on concentrating the spell. She grunted as blue, which looked like ribbons, surrounded Rarity.

They began levitating her and bravely embraced the magic as its consumed her. Twilight grunted and groan at the intensity of the spell. Finally, a spark of light ignited, creating a pulse that knocked her away, causing me to catch her.

"You okay?" I asked in concern.

"Y-yeah, I think so..." Twilight said as she slowly got up and tried to relieve the pain.

"Whoooa..." Kodi stared in awe as we looked up to see Rarity with...oh my god. She's like an angel, only except with butterfly wings.

"Dang..." I said in amazement and shock. I can't believe it actually worked.

Rarity started flapping her new wings as showed many beautiful colors like an actual butterfly. "It worked! I'm actually flying! Is there a mirror about? I'd like to see my new wings!"

"Here you are!" Pinkie said as she held one up as it got Rarity marveled in amazement.

"Ah! They're gorgeous!" Rarity commented.

"They're too gorgeous.." I muttered towards Kodi. "I'm ain't putting that on my back. I rather use my hover-board."

"Yeah, I kinda take that back about getting wings now." Kodi said, not wanting to get those wings Rarity got.

"So pretty!" Pinkie gasped.

"Just dandy!" Applejack agreed. Well it makes sense for them to like it since they're girls. Not that I complain or argue about.

"And too much effort." Twilight said, causing us to look at her with confusion. "Listen everypony, I wanna be there for Rainbow Dash as much of any of you. But that spell is too hard for me to cast on all of us."

"That is a problem..." I agreed with her. "There's just have to be something else here, right?" I asked Twilight.

"I think so...wait!" Twilight began going through book after book, until she gasped onto the next one. "This is it! This will help us see and cheer Rainbow Dash on!"

"Really? What is it?" Applejack asked, curiously.

"According to this book, it contains a Cloud-Walking Spell that will be able to allow us to walk on clouds for three days. Plenty of time to get to Cloudsdale and enjoy the competition." Twilight explained, much to our joy.

"Well, what are you waiting for? Let's do it!" I exclaimed as Twilight let out a nod and prepared the spell on us. Once she hit the spell on all of us, I didn't feel any different, but I did feel a little lighter than before.

"Did it work?" Kodi asked.

"Only way to find out once we get to Cloudsdale." Twilight replied. "Now how are we gonna get there?"

Suddenly, we heard a whistle outside as we raced outside and saw Pinkie coming down with a huge hot air balloon. "Hi!" Pinkie waved to us, which I slowly waved back to you.

"Pinkie...how did you..." Twilight couldn't find the right words to described this.

"Well, while you guys were busy, I ran out of the library and grabbed the hot air balloon for the Running of The Leaves." Pinkie explained.

I smiled back at her and said "Once again, you save the day Pinkie." Pinkie grin happily to hear that as the girls and Kodiak got on board.

"Aren't you coming Ren?" Applejack asked, noticing that I didn't come in.

"Don't worry, I'll use my hover-board to get there!" I said as I ran back to the library and grabbed my board, turning it on, and began flying out of there as we flew upwards towards Cloudsdale. I can't wait to see the look on Rainbow and Fluttershy's faces.

Wow...this is so...awesome! We finally arrived to Cloudsdale to see that they weren't kidding about it being up real high to the sky and looking at this place, it was almost similar to Angel Island from Sonic The Hedgehog 3. I flew out of a thick layer of cloud, encountering Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy as they were both amazed and surprised to see us.

"I don't believe it!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"So incredible." Fluttershy added.

"This is so cool!" Rainbow said as the balloon set itself down. "You guys made it!"

"Of course Dash, we wouldn't miss it!" Kodi said as he jumped off the balloon.

"Wait!" Rainbow said, but then became shocked to see my little puppy standing on the clouds, and not falling. The others and I hopped out with no troubles either. "How'd you do that?" Rainbow asked. "Only Pegasus ponies can walk on clouds!"

"Pretty cool, huh?" Pinkie giggled as she began cartwheeling around us.

"I used a spell to give temporary wings." Twilight explained, pointing at Rarity. "But it was too difficult to do more than once. So I found an easier spell that lets the rest of us walk on clouds."

"And we came to cheer you to victory Dash!" I added with a smile.

"To be honest, I was starting to get just a teeniest, tiniest bit nervous. But I feel a lot better now that you guys are here." Rainbow said, smiling sheepishly. "Hey, we've got some time before the competition. Why don't Fluttershy and I show you around Cloudsdale?"

We cheered happily to her as we began following Rainbow and Fluttershy.




Later

"Here it is!" Rainbow announced. "The greatest city in the sky!" We looked around to see many ponies flying around Cloudsdale, along with the different homes made from clouds.

"Look at this place, it's so amazing!" Kodi exclaimed.

"Yeah..." I nodded, before noticing some of the ponies looking directly at me. Oh wait, they haven't seen a human like me before. I nearly forgotten about that since everypony back in Ponyville gotten used to me that I thought I was a citizen of Equestria.

"It seems like no one knew about you Ren." Fluttershy said, feeling worried about me.

"Yeah, but don't worry, I'll be alright." I said, smiling softly at her. "It'll take a while for them to get used to me." Suddenly, we were interrupted as we saw Rarity looking at herself in a mirror to check out her wings.

"Uhh..." Rainbow sweat-dropped upon noticing Rarity. "Some of the greatest Pegasi in history came from Cloudsdale!" Rainbow said as she walked us over to another area.

"Oh, wait for me!" Rarity called over to us and flew to catch up. I had my hoverboard under my arm as I looked back to Rarity.

"Rarity, are you sure you can handle your new wings?" I asked in concern.

"Ren's right." Twilight agreed, joining in on our conversation. "Those wings are made from gossamer and morning dew, and they're incredibly delicate."

"Don't worry Ren and Twilight." Rarity waved it off. "I'm sure they can't get worn out from too much attention?"

"Since we're up here, I'd sure like to get a look at where the weather's made." Applejack requested.

"Great idea." Rainbow said. "Come on everypony! To the weather factory!"

We arrived to the Cloudsdale Weather Factory, or so did Rainbow told. It was surrounded with thunderclouds and rainbows, as well as rainbow falls pouring into the lands below. We wore protective work clothes and hard hats as we entered the factory. Well, the girls only wore the work clothes and hard hats, while me and Kodi wore the hard hats as well as we didn't have the size for those clothes. I think I had those kind of clothes back home, the ones Rarity made for me.

"This is where they make the snowflakes, each one hoof-made." Rainbow announced in a hushed voice.

"Why are you talking so quietly?" Kodi asked, keeping a hushed voice as well.

"Well, snowflakes are very delicate and can easily break into pieces if fallen or loud sounds." Rainbow answered.

"Oh." Kodi nodded as we continued to walk around to see dozens of Pegasus ponies at different stations, with tiny carving tools, magnifying glasses, and wearing earmuffs from the cold being pumped into the room to keep the snowflakes from melting.

"As you can see, it's a very delicate operation." Rainbow said.

"Yeah no kidding." I replied quietly.

"Say Ren, do humans ack in your world make the weather like these snowflakes?" Kodi asked curiously.

"No, humans don't have control of the weather Kodiak, it just happens randomly." I responded, much to the mares shock.

"Wow, that's amazing." Fluttershy said happily.

"I guess your kind might be lucky to not make weathers, huh?" Twilight asked, raising a brow and a smiled. I rubbed my head bashfully and blushed in embarrassment.

Suddenly, I noticed several worker ponies looking at me in surprise and started murmuring something. It's either that they're seeing a human for the first time or overheard our conversation about humans not making the weather.

"Ooh! The snowflakes look even better from up here!" Huh? Was that Rarity? We looked up to see that it was indeed Rarity as she flapped near some flakes that had been hung. Unfortunately, the beat of her wings caused a strong breeze to blow about, sending the flakes and the workers into disarray, as they ran about, trying to catch the flakes.

I widened my eyes in shock as Kodi hid behind me, while Rainbow winced upon seeing this. "We'd...better move on before Rarity ruins winter and causes a drought."

"Agreed." I nodded.





We moved to anothe work area where we saw some liquids pouring from one container to another below it.

"And here's where they make the rainbows!" Rainbow said. I was amazed to see so many rainbows being made here. I've seen rainbows a lot back from my world, but seeing one being made is so awesome!

I then noticed Pinkie and Kodi looking down the pool of rainbow as Pinkie dipped her hoof in the rainbow and licked it, and Kodi started drinking the rainbow, much to my shock. They tasted it for a moment until they're faces started going through different colors, the same colors as the rainbow and made different expressions before they were back to normal, and panting.

"Spicyyy!" Pinkie exclaimed as she ran off.

"Too spicy! Too spicy!" Kodiak exclaimed as he began running around in circles until the heat started to disperse out from his mouth.

"Yeah, I don't think you should do that." I said with a smirk, which made Kodi glare at me. Hey, I didn't tell you to lick the rainbow.

"Yeah, rainbows aren't really known for their flavor..." Rainbow explained.

"Whoa! Where'd you get those amazing wings? I want a pair!"

We looked and saw Rarity showed off her wings to three workers, who took notice of us.

"Oh, it's Rainbow Crash again!" The dark brown pony said.

"Hehehyeah!" The light brown pony with the long brown mane added as they walked towards. "Rainbow...umm...eyah...Crash!"

"Rarity! What're you doing talking with these guys?" Rainbw immediately asked, annoyed by the presence of them.  I can already tell that these guys are no good.

"Oh, they were just admiring my wings." Rarity replied like it was no big deal.

"Do yo know these guys, Dash?" I asked.

"Yeah, they always like picking on me and Fluttershy back then." Rainbow replied, rolling her eyes. I looked at Fluttershy, who hid behind Applejack in fear.

"Hey Rainbow, you should just forget the Sonic Rainboom and get yourselves wings like those!" The dark brown pony said, as they laughed mockingly at her. I gritted my teeth upon seeing them pick on Dash like that.

"Hey, why not put your wings where your mouth is?!" I said, causing the three Pegasus bullies to glare at me.

"What was that?" The dark brown Pegasus glared at me. "And what are you supposed to be? Some hairless mindless ape?" He and his two friends started laughing at me.

"My name is Ren Loodan, and I'm a human, thank you very much." I said, narrowing my eyes. "Besides, if anyone''s mindless, it's you three." I said, causing them to stop laughing and become angry at me. "Now listen, leave my friend alone and go mind your own business. Bullying and hurting others is wrong, even for grown ponies like you!"

"You know, for something that has a weird lame name knows how to say some things!" The dark brown pony sneered. "Besides, what would someone like you would do?"

"You back away or else I'll bite ya!" Kodi growle angrily at them, causing them to laugh at him.

"Oh please, like a little mutt can bite our plots off!" He exclaimed in laughter. I let out a sigh and took out my Megaphone Hacking Gun and aimed it in front of him.

"Knock-Back!" I shouted as the gun blew a gust of wind, blowing them away off a distance.

"W-whoa!" The light brown pony said in shock.

"H-how did you-"

"Rule number#1: Never mess with me or my friends." I said, smirking at them. They growled angrily and flew off. Once they were gone, I let out a sigh and turned back to my friends, who were surprised that I did that. "Sorry girls, I just don't like people picking on others like that."

"It's okay Ren, we understand." Twilight said, frowning a little. "Although, I think you took that too far." I rubbed my head in embarrassment, realizing that she was right.

"Yeah, I guess I got carry away with that..." I said, blushing.

"Well even so, it was nice for defending Dash like that." Applejack said, smiling softly at me.

"Yeah, but I would still bite them." Kodi said, smirking at us.  I smiled softly towards him as I rubbed his head, thanking him for helping me against those bullies. Then I noticed Rainbow Dash, who was starting to panic.

"Uhh....come on. Why don't we go see how clouds are made" Fluttershy announced as we started to leave the area.

I then walked Rainbow Dash with assuring smile. "Don't listen to them Rainbow, I know you're gonna win that competition for sure."

"Are you kidding, I can't do the Sonic Rainboom!" Rainbow exclaimed in fear. "And just look at these boring feathered wings, I'm doomed!"

I couldn't help but feel bad for her to feel nervous. I just hope she can prove those bullies wrong.

Later

We soon came to a machine that Fluttershy says that it makes clouds. I noticed giant purple funnels pumping out clouds of all types, workers making sure there were no blockages so there was smooth flowing, some adding water to the machines to be vaporized and condensed into cloud. But suddenly, a lot of workers dropped what they were doing and went to admire Rarity's wings.

I face-palmed upon them admiring Rarity like she was a big star, and she said that she wouldn't attract too much attention.

"Why, these old things?" Rarity bragged. "Go ahead everypony. Photos are encouraged."

Rarity continued to show them off, causing Rainbow to lose more of her ego and rise up in being frightened and nervous.

"Rarity." Twilight walked over to Rarity and glared at her. "We're supposed to be helping Rainbow Dash relax, remember? Put your wings away and stop showing off!"

"Oh pfft! How can you asked me to put away perfection?" Rarity said as she ascended straight towards where the sunlight peeped through the factory. The sunight passed through Rarity's wings, delicately, and forming several bright colors among us, causing the crowd to be amazed.

While every other pony was distracted with Rarity's wings, Rainbow Dash was on the floor shivering.

"Rainbow Dash, are you okay? You don't look so good." Twilight asked. Of course she doesn't look so good, she's panicking about the competition.

"Of course!" Rainbow answered as she panted. "Why wouldn't I be okay? Everyone's so in love with Rarity's wings that they won't even notice when I totally blow it in the Best Young Flyer's Competition."

"Hey, there's an idea!" One of the workers said. "You should enter the competition!"

"Yeah, I could watch you fly all day long!" An elderly Pegasus mare agreed.

"What?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"There really isn't anypony who uses their wings quite like me." Rarity boasted. "Perhaps I should compete!"

"WHAT?!" Rainbow screamed as the workers followed Rarity to continue to admire her. We all gathered around Rainbw, who was slumping down in worried.

"What am I gonna do? I don't stand a chance at winning now...." Rainbow muttered.

"Rainbow..." I muttered sadly. This is bad, I need to do something to make her get her full confidence back.

"Ren, what are we going to do?" Kodi asked worriedly. I began to think for a while to try and solve all this. Unless...

"I'll...enter the Best Young Fliers Competition." I said with a determined expression. Everypony became shocked to hear that.

"What?!" The girls and Kodiak exclaimed.

"But Ren, you can't, no offense, but you're not a Pegasus pony like Rainbow or Fluttershy!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Yeah? Besides, do you even know any good tricks for the competition?" Applejack questioned.

I smiled sheepishly and rubbed my head bashfully. "Well...no, but I need to help Dash from feeling nervous. I'll try to encouraged her and show some of my hover-board skills, that why I can help her find her inner courage again!" I explained, glancing towards the nervous Dash.

"Well..." Twilight was still unsure about this decision at all.

"Come on Twilight, I'm sure Rennie will do a great job!" Pinkie exclaimed. "Besides, everypony here in Cloudsdale will be amazed to see the first ever human to ever compete in the Best Young Flier's Competition!"

"Well...she isn't wrong about that..." I muttered, blushing.

"Oh alright!" Twilight said, giving me a worried look. "Just be careful, alright?"

"Got it!" I gave her a thumbs up as Fluttershy walked over to me.

"Please Ren, just be alright, and I'll be cheering you, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity throughout the entire competition." Fluttershy said, smiling softly at me.

"Don't worry Fluttershy, I'll be okay. Besides..." I glanced over to Rainbow, who was still shivering in fear. "Rainbow is gonna need luck throughout this competition."

"Mm-hmm.." Kodi nodded in agreement. I just hope nothing goes wrong throughout this competition.




Later

After some difficulty with registering to the competition because I wasn't a pony, I finally got in thanks to Twilight and the others sticking up for me, telling those ponies that allow ponies to participate in the competition that it was for everyone, including me, and also showing them off my hover-board by flying around in the air with it.

Soon after, every competitor, including me, Dash, and Rarity, were waiting for it to begin. I noticed Rainbow was still acting nervous as I walked towards her and put my hand on her shoulder.

"Dash?"

"Ren! Hey..." She said, feeling uncomfortable about this.

"Rainbow, you just have to relax." I encouraged her. "You're one of the most awesome, confident, and heroic Pegasus I ever know, and one awesome flyer! You're gonna do great!"

"Thanks..." Rainbow muttered.

"Hey, be glad you're number two." I added, pointing the number on her flank. "I'm like dead-last! Guess it's not my lucky day, I guess." I rubbed my head bashfully and laughed nervously.

"I'm going to be a while!" I overheard Rarity exclaimed as I glanced at her, closing the door to a room. I frowned and sweat-dropped at her.

"And here she said she wouldn't attract that much attention..." I shook my head.

"Fillies and gentlecolts! Please rise and join me in welcoming our beloved Princess Celestia!" I overheard the announcer said. I looked over the curtains and saw Princess Celestia appeared from the sky and landed on a special cloud reserved just for her. A couple of those royal guard ponies of her's each stayed by both sides of her. Princess Celestia waved at every pony watching the event. "Please welcome our celebrity judges for the Best Young Flier Competition. The Wonderbolts!" Wait, the Wonderbolts?! Suddenly, six high-flying Pegasus ponies wearing blue outfits with lightning patterns on it came down and started doing amazing aerial acrobatics. They lined up, did a loop de loop, before spiraling out into a fireworks effect, everypony cheering, as the Wonderbolts took their seats at the judges table. Well it makes sense for them to be judges since they are world famous here in Equestria after all, or so I heard.

"And no, let's find out who will take home the prize as this year's Best Young Flier!" Well, looks like this is going to be a loooong day.




One hour later

"Ugh..I'm so bored!" I said, leaning against a wall. This room is almost empty and I still haven't been called to go. Whole I waited in pure boredom, I noticed a shaking and frightful Rainbow Dash.

"Dash? What are you still doing here, I thought-" Huh? I then noticed that her number was 15 instead of 2. "What the?! Rainbow! Have you been switching numbers so you wouldn't be sent out?!"

"Maybe...." Dash smiled sheepishly at me, causing me to face-palmed. This mare...

"Number fifteen, come on! Let's go!" The referee called. At the moment, the door next to me opened, revealing Rarity, but there was something different about her.

"Rarity...is ready!" Rarity announced. I widened my eyes upon seeing Rarity dressed in some weird make-up, some crazy outfit. I face-palmed upon seeing her like that. I feel like she’s stole Lady Gaga’s style.

“Look, you three, I don’t know what to tell you.” The referee groaned. “There’s only time for one more performance! If you all wanna compete, you gotta go out there together!”

“Well, darlings, shall we?” Rarity asked me and Dash.

“And now! For our final performance of the day, please welcome contestant number fifteen! And…apparently contestants four and sixteen as well!” The announcer shouted out.

“Well, we kinda don’t have a choice.” I said, smiling nervously.

“Oh, and darlings, I hope you won’t mind that I changed the music. That…rock and roll doesn’t really match my wings.” Rarity added.

I shook my head in disappointment at her while I smiled encouragingly at her. But suddenly, a score of classical music rang out through the arena and they saw Rarity doing what appeared to be an aerial ballet.

“Come on, Rainbow Dash!” Rainbow muttered, tapping her head. “You can do this! Just remember the routine!”

I turn on my Hover-board as we soar into the skies.

“And also, for the first time ever in Pegasi history, a new creature who goes by the name of Human is competing in some magic board or whatever!” The announcer said. Everyone became amazed to see me for the first time as I just smirked and followed after Rainbow. She went for the first phase by going through the cloud pillars, I followed after her and did what she did, but Rainbow accidentally bumped into a cloud pillar and crashed against an arena wall, and it just had to be below the bullies from yesterday. Well I wasn’t expected them to show up.

“Nice work, Rainbow Crash!” The dark brown pony mocked, laughing with his friends. I puffed my cheeks and glared at them, but I let out as sigh and just dropped it.

“Alright, time for phase two!” Rainbow muttered as she flew out the arena while Rarity just danced around. Rainbow then began phase two of her trick as she flew upwards and started spinning the clouds. I did it as well and followed her movements. As Rainbow was concentrating on spinning a cloud, a piece of it knocked her off. This caused the cloud to spin straight towards Princess Celestia, but luckily, they ducked and dodged it as the cloud dissolved above them.

I let out a sigh to see her a-okay. After that, I saw Rarity began flying upwards towards the sun. Hesitating for a moment, Rainbow Dash followed as well…preparing to do the third and final phase…the Sonic Rainboom…

I was about to do it, but I was distracted by some huge light as I saw Rarity beamed her wings at the sun, showing off her colors. “Look upon me Equestria…” She announced loudly. “For I am Rarity!” The crowd stared in awe upon seeing her like that, even I was. Unfortunately, her wings burst into flames and were ashed all at once. Rarity noticed and widened her eyes in shock.

“Uh-oh…” She muttered before plummeting towards her doom.

“Oh no! Her wings evaporated into thin air!” Twilight exclaimed.

I realized and tried to save her, but the Wonderbolts got to her first. Wow, they’re sure know how to react first. The Wonderbolts tried to save her, but Rarity was panicking so much that she accidentally kicked them, causing them to be knocked-out and fall along with Rarity. Rainbow saw this and immediately turned around, racing towards Rarity.

“Hang on! I’m coming too!” I exclaimed as I follow after Dash.

We continued to rush at top speed to catch up to them. I can’t let Rarity nor the Wonderbolts die! Not in my watch! We saw the ground almost down and realized that even if I saw them, I won’t be able to pull up, but maybe…

“Rainbow, you save the Wonderbolts, I’ll save Rarity!” I exclaimed.

“You got it, Ren!” Rainbow nodded as she she went forward with top speed as she started to push the sound barrier, is she gonna do it? Anyway, I grabbed my Hacking Gun and grabbed Rarity as I aimed it at the ground.

“KNOCK-BACK!” I shouted as it shot a powerful gust of wind out of it, causing me to fall back to the sky with her. Suddenly, I heard an explosion as I saw Rainbow Dash going through the speed of light as she performed…

“Rainbow, you did it!” I exclaimed happily to see her perform the Sonic Rainboom. She zoomed into the air and made a beautiful as soon as we arrived back to the stadium. Once I made it back, Rarity hold onto me tightly.

“Oh thank you for saving me, Ren darling.” Rarity said.

“Anytime Rarity, though you should’ve took Twilight’s warning for seriously next time.” I said, with a smirk and a raised brow as Rarity smiled sheepishly at me. I then noticed Rainbow settling don the Wonderbolts to some Pegasus ponies taking them from her grasp as she look at the crowd in excitement.

As she landed, Rainbow was blown away by the applause, everypony cheering their hearts out, Fluttershy most of all. Wow, she must’ve been exciting the moment she saw that Sonic Rainboom.

“I did it…!” Rainbow muttered.

“You sure did Dash!” I said, smiling towards her. “And that was an awesome move you did, you gotta teach me that!” I said happily.

“Heh, I guess so! Best…Day…Ever!” Rainbow yelled in excitement.





After that was done, me and my friends gathered in front of the hot-air balloon where Rarity was, as she never gotten the cloud-walking spell cast on her since she got those butterfly wings.

“I just want to apologize to you all, especially you Rainbow Dash.” Rarity said sadly. “When I got my…beautiful wings!”

“I…think we get it Rarity.” Kodi said, getting tired of Rarity saying that.

“Yes well, I guess I just lost my head.” Rarity sighed.

“Nah, it was no big deal.” Rainbow waved it off.

“Well even so, I am sorry for jumping into the contest after you two trained so hard for it.” Rarity added.

“Hey, it’s okay, it turned it out fine in the end, right Dash?” I asked with a smile.

“Sure, though I wish I could’ve met the Wonderbolts while they were awake.” Rainbow sighed. Oh right, she was competing in it to win so that she could meet the Wonderbolts. Well, there’s always next time.

Suddenly, somepony cleared their throat as we turned and gasped upon seeing the three Wonderbolts that we’ve saved.

“So you’re the little pony who saved our rumps! We just wanted to thank you.” One of the Wonderbolts said.

“Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!” Rainbow kept saying in excitement to see her biggest heroes. That kinda sounds like me when I hear a new game coming out.

Suddenly, Princess Celestia and her royal guard ponies came flying down to us.

“Princess!” Twilight said as she bowed. We bowed as well as Celestia let out a chuckled.

“Hello Twilight Sparkle, Ren, and hello to your friends too.” She said, happy to see us again.

"Princess Celestia, I am sorry I ruined the competition." Rarity spoke as she held her head low. She looked over to Rainbow Dash. "Rainbow Dash here really is the best flyer in Equestria."

“I know she is my dear.” Princess Celestia nodded. “That’s why for her incredible act of bravery, and her spectacular Sonic Rainboom, as well as Ren helping alongside her and using his quick-thinking to save one of his friends, I am presenting the grand prize of the Best Young Fliers to this year’s tying winners, Rainbow Dash and Ren Loodan!”

Everypony cheered as Princess Celestia placed the winner’s crown on Rainbow’s head while the guards presented me with a trophy.

“Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!” Rainbow kept shouting out as Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy carried her around for a victory lap. Me and Kodiak stayed behind as I stayed with Twilight and Celestia as we started to hear their conversation.

“So Twilight Sparkle, did you learn anything about friendship from this experience?” Celestia asked.

I did Princess.“ Twilight replied, looking over to Rarity. ”But I think Rarity learned even more than me.“

“I certainly did.” Rarity nodded. “I learned how important it is to keep your hooves on the ground, and be there for your friends…and when a certain friend tries to talk you out of trouble, you should listen to them…”

“Nice on Rarity.” Kodi smiled happily for her. I gave her a thumbs up, which Rarity smiled happily to hear.

“Excellent, a well learned lesson, Rarity.” Celestia nodded.

“Uh, Rainbow Crash-I mean Dash.” Huh? That voice, it couldn’t be…

We turned around to see the Pegasus jocks coming towards us.

“Uh, Rainbow Dash. We just wanted to congratulate you on winning the competition. You too, Ha-I mean Ren.” I smiled softly and nodded at them, showing them respect as they gave respect back to me.

“That Sonic Rainboom?! And that weird Megaphone gun?!” The light brown pony said excitedly. “Totally awesome!”

“Well, thanks guys!” Rainbow smiled appreciatively.

“And we’re sorry we gave you such a hard time.” The dark brown pony added.

“Ah, don’t sweat it!” Rainbow waved it off, balancing her newly prized crown on her head.

“Hey, do you wanna hang out with us? We’d love to learn how you did that incredible trick!”

“Sorry boys.” Rainbow streaked past them and instead, headed with the two waiting Wonderbolts. “But I’ve got plans!” She glided along with her idols as they headed somewhere else.

The jocks became depressed that they got rejected as I felt bad for them.

“Well…I’m no Rainbow Dash, but if you wanna hang out, I’d like to introduce you to my pals!”

“That’d be awesome!” The dark brown pony yelled in excitemement.

“Oh by the way, I never did get your names?”

“Oh, my name is Hoops!” The dark brown pony known as Hoops said. “And this is my friends, Billy and Dumbbell.”

“Well, my name is Ren Loodan, and yes, I’m aware of my name is weird, but it’s Estonian for Hope. Oh, and this is my talking little dog, Kodiak, or Kodi for short.” I said, introducing him to my puppy dog pal.

“Hello.” He waved to them, much to the jock’s shock.

“Wow…awesome…” Billy muttered in amazement. I smiled happily to see these bullies are finally acting friendly towards my friends.




Later

The sun was setting as me, Kodi, and my friends decided to party back at my place to celebrate both me and Rainbow’s win. Rainbow Dash was still hanging out with her Wonderbolt friends, so it was like making a surprise party for her. While walking, I decided to chat up with my friends.

"That was some loud cheering you did.“ I said to Fluttershy, much to her embarrassment.

"Oh." She blushed lightly upon my commet. "I was just so caught up with the excitement…I'm a little embarrassed about it now…"

"Don't be, you were fantastic."

“Yeah, you were extremely awesome back there!” Kodi added.

“Mm-Hmm! You were so loud Fluttershy, more louder than me, probably!” Pinkie agreed, causing the others to giggle at that.

She smiled. "Thank you, though I guess it really wore me out…"

"Well… I still think your soft cheering is perfect."

"You really think so?" She asked as she looked over to me.

"Mmhm." I nodded. "You were quite awesome back there.“ I said, noticing Fluttershy’s cheeks turning red. Seriously, what is going on?

“Now now guys, let’s just focus on getting this party all set.” Twilight reminded us as we finally arrived to my home-ship.

“Okay everyone, let’s get started and-” As soon as I opened the door, Me, Kodiak, and the other ponies saw something that caused us to be extremely shocked and put us into silence.

“What the…” I don’t believe it. What we saw were…humans. Two of them to be exact. One had black hair that goes way down to his neck and had light blue eyes, wearing a white hoodie sweater and had a red scarf around his neck, and was wearing a bamboo stick around his back and was wearing black sandals and wore black sweats.

The other was a little girl wearing a top pink flowerly like top shirt and had short hazel hair, but with a short ponytail that goes all the way to her neck. She had blue eyes and has knee-length black leggings covered by a puffy white skirt that seems to resembles a cloud and wore red sandals. She seems to be nine years old judging by her height.

They noticed as the little girl hid behind  the black haired boy as he glared at them.

“Who goes there?” He asked sternly, narrowing his eyes at shock. We just stood there in silence upon seeing them. Does that mean…I’m not the only human here in Equestria?

“Hey guys, I’m back!” We heard a voice as it turns out to be Rainbow Dash as she entered my room in excitement. “You would not believe it you guys, the Wonderbolts so amazing, so cool, so…so….” Rainbow then noticed our shock expressions as she raised a brow and looked at what we’re looking as she noticed the two other humans in shock.

“…Oh…” She muttered in shock.

“D-did…that pony with wings just spoke just now?” The black haired boy asked in shock.

“…Awkward….” Pinkie muttered. Well, this is what I call a plot twist.
> Chapter 17 - Stare Master! Slumber Party Panic!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

T-this is impossible! We're seeing two more humans right here, right now! W-where did they even come from?!

"S-so, who are you all?" The little girl asked, peeking from behind the tall boy.

I blinked several times before rubbing my head bashfully and making a nervous smile. "O-Oh, sorry if we stared at you too long. Ren Loodan is my name, and before you laugh, I'll have you know that Loodan is Estonian for Hope."

"Oh, well I think its a nice name." The little girl happily.

"Anyway..." Twilight spoke up with a shock expression on her face. "Where did you two come from?! Are you also humans like Ren?! Just who are you?!" Twilight kept asking questions, causing both Applejack and Rainbow Dash to pull her back.

"Forgive our friend, she tends to do that whenever she sees something new and wants to learn from it." Applejack explained.

"Yeah Twilight, we don't need an egghead to interfere." Rainbow replied with a blank expression, causing Twilight to glare at her angrily for that.

"Right..." The boy said, giving off a glare at us. Oh boy, why do I have the feeling something bad is going to happen. "Just tell me, who are you ponies anyway?"

"Well first off..." Rainbow went up first. "I'm Rainbow Dash, best flyer of all of Equestria."

"Equestria?" The little girl asked.

"That's the name of the place we're in. Trust me, even I'm all confused about this but I got used to it." I replied, rubbing my head bashfully.

"He's right, but Equestria is an awesome place to live in!" Kodiak added, surprising both the tall boy and the young girl. "What?" Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion. Oh right, they don't know about the talking dog.

"D-Did, that dog just said something?!" The boy asked in shock.

"Yep, that's right!" Pinkie said, appearing out of nowhere behind the two. "That's Kodiak, or Kodi for short, he's Ren recently adoptive pet puppy and these two are the best friends ever!" Pinkie pulled both me and Kodi for a hug, much to our embarrassment.

"Ooh, he's so cute!" The little girl exclaimed as she ran over and hugged Kodiak gently. "Nice to meet you Kodi, my name is Carrie."

"Nice to meet you too, Carrie." Kodi said, licking her face, much to her joy. Carrie? So that's her name.

"So, your name is Carrie?" Fluttershy asked. Carrie looked up Fluttershy and nodded her head happily.

"Mm-hmm! My name is Carrie Hunter, and this is my big brother, Mason Hunter!" Carrie introduced herself and her bother, Mason. So they're siblings, I guess that explains about a lot.

"Hmph!" Mason said as he crossed his arms and closed his eyes. Jeez, what's his problem.

"Anyway, I'm Twilight Sparkle." Twilight introduced herself. "And these are my friends, Pinkie Pie!"

"Hi!" Pinkie eaved to them.

"Rarity!"

"Good evening..um..Darlings." Rarity brushed her mane off.

"Applejack!"

"Howdy!" Applejack adjusted her cowboy hat.

"Fluttershy."

"Um...Hello?" Fluttershy gave off a soft smile.

"And you already knew Rainbow Dash since she already introduced herself."

"Mm-hmm! How's it going?" Rainbow asked happily.

"Fine..." Mason said, looking at us with a serious expression. "Anyway, could one of you please tell me and my little sister how we got here and where are we?"

"Well....this might take a while.." I said, sweat-dropping.

Fifteen Minutes Later

"And that's sum it up." I said, finishing my explanation on how we got here.

"So you're telling me that we're trapped in a magical land filled with ponies and you've been living here for months?" Mason said, trying to follow on my explanation.

"Yep, that's right." I nodded.

"Yeah, and Ren is a nice friend and cool guy!" Kodi added happily.

"Ahh, that's so cute! I would like to be his friend!" Carrie said, smiling towards me, my friends, and my dog.

"Whatever." Mason said in a serious tone.

"So..." Twilight spoke up. "How in the world did you get here in Ren's home?"

"Well, we woken up in some chamber in a strange room and we find a door leading out of it, and you can guess the rest of the story." Carrie said, rubbing her head bashfully.

"That's right, and I don't remember how or why we were in there." Mason added, rubbing his chin in thought. Hold on, strange room? He couldn't mean!

"Do you mean an old white room near a bedroom?" I asked, much to the sibling surprise.

"Why yes, why do you ask?" Mason asked.

"That's because Rennie here woke up from that room! So did the Prologue of this story explained!" Pinkie said, popping in front of Mason, catching him by surprise.

"What the?! How on earth did you get in front of me?!"

"Oh easy silly, I just hopped over towards you." Pinkie replied, sticking out her tongue a little.

"B-but you..." Mason couldn't find the right words as he shook his head, trying to forget what he just witnessed.

"Yeah, she tends to do that." I said, chuckling a bit.

"Yeah, we don't even know how she does it." Kodi added. "But we do know one thing, don't question Pinkie Pie, just accept as her friend."

"Her...friend?" Mason asked, raising a brow before letting out a sigh. "Whatever." Jeez, this guy likes to take things serious, doesn't he?

"Anyway." Applejack spoke up, getting into the conversation. "Could you show us the rooms you awoken in?" Applejack asked curiously.

"Okay." Mason nodded as he led us towards the same room that I awoken in. I still don't get it, does this still mean that they're might be more humans here in Equestria like me?





We finally arrived to the mysterious white room, the place where I first awoken up here in this home-ship or so I called it. "See those two pods over to the left." Mason pointed over, finding two more pods over there. "That's where we woken up and found ourselves here."

"I-it was so scary when I woken up here and thought that we wouldn't go home." Carrie said, holding Kodi tightly.

"U-Um....you're kinda holding on...me tighter, C-Carrie!" Kodi said, losing his breath. Carrie realizes what's she doing with Kodi as she put him down with a sheepish smile.

"Sorry..." Carrie said sheepishly.

"So you woken from these?" Applejack and Twilight walked over to them. "Well these pods seem to have kept you two nice and cozy, but why were you in there?" Applejack asked, which Mason shook his head, implying that he doesn't know himself.

"That's strange, Ren, didn't you say you woken up from that chamber over there?" Twilight asked, pointing over to the chamber that I woken in.

"Yeah, I did but..." I replied, walking over to the recently appeared pods. "But I don't remember there being two more pods." Could it be possible that they might appeared after some time later. I was the first to awaken, so maybe more pods would appear after a specific set of time, I guess.

"Well, maybe they appeared, like they were set to be awaken and when the time was right, these pods came out and must've waken both Mason and Carrie." Twilight theorized.

"Well, I guess you have a point darling." Rarity said with a confused look. "So, it look like Ren isn't the only human here in Equestria." Yeah, she's right about that.

"This is crazy, what would Princess Celestia say about this?" Twilight asked, pacing back and forth, learning about two new humans here right in front of his.

"Well I'm sure she'll understand the situation Twilight." Fluttershy said softly.

"Yeah, and you know what this means?!" Pinkie asked excitedly.

"Let me guess Pinkie: A party, right?" I asked, smiling towards her. She grabbed my cheeks and made a serious expression.

"Not just any party Rennie! A 'two new humans appeared here in Equestria and Welcome to Equestria' party!" Pinkie exclaimed before letting out a gasp. "I gotta go spread the word!" And with that, she disappeared right out of sight.

"Typical Pinkie Pie..." Rainbow said, playfully rolling her eyes. Yeah, although, she's quite good doing wacky stuff like that. I wonder if I could do that....nah, probably not.

"Anyway, what now?" Mason asked, giving me a serious expression.

"Oh well...." I said, rubbing my head bashfully. "Well, I guess you two could stay, I mean, it would be great! We could hang out and stuff!"

"Hang...out?" Mason asked curiously.

"You know, hanging out as friends." Applejack specified.

"Friends? Sorry, but I rather be called an ally instead of a friend." Mason said, crossing his arms. We became surprised to hear that. W-what is he trying to say?

"What...do you mean?" Kodi asked curiously.

"I don't do friends, it's...not my thing, besides it's a waste of time of my training." Mason said.

"Huh? Training?" I asked curiously.

"My brother a Ken-do Master, a prodigy or so he say." Carrie explained.

"Ken-do?" Rarity asked.

"You could say that its a self defense and fighting form." Mason replied.

"PFFFT! Big whoop!" Rainbow said, waving her hoof off. "I'll have you know that I'm a black belt in Karate. Besides, Karate is way better than 'Ken-do'." Mason ignored her and just didn't listen to her.

"I don't care, besides, I don't waste my time with friends." Mason said, which upset Twilight.

"Look Mason, I don't know why you think making friends are a waste of time, but I'll have you know that I'm studying the Magic of Friendship and making friends isn't that bad, you can learn by being with them." Twilight explained, which me and the other mares, and Kodiak smiled towards him.

Mason just scoffed and said "I don't care, all I care is trying to find a way back home." Just what's his problem? Maybe something happened him to make friends? Suddenly, we heard a rumbling sound, surprising all of us. As soon as the trembling sound was done, we all looked at each other in shock or confusion.

"What in tarnation was that?" Applejack asked.

"I don't know, but it was really scary!" Kodi said, hiding behind my legs.

"It sounded like it was coming outside..." Fluttershy said softly.

"Alright, let's go!" I said as we ran out of the room, but as I was about to open the door to head back outside, I noticed some stairs near the door. Hey, wait a minute, they weren't there before?

"Strange, that wasn't there before." I said walking slowly to the stairs.

"Y-yeah, do you think that rumbling sound was from those stairs appearing?" Fluttershy suggested.

"I guess, well, let's check it out." Twilight said as she went up first.

"I'm really scared and excited about this." Carrie said, hiding behind her brother. "Well, mostly excited about seeing it."

"Don't worry sis, you'll be alright." Mason said as he began walking up the newly appeared stairs. We all headed up to find ourselves another bedroom.  It looked like a normal house, with a Creekside Twin bunk bed, a red and blue circle like carpet, with blue couches with pink cushions and yellow pillows. A red bean bag was in front of a plasma TV, the walls were white and it even had a window, and also a closet at the back of the room.

"Whoa, this place looks awesome!" Dash exclaimed, amazed by the room.

"This room...Why did this appeared?" Mason thought.

"I don't know, but maybe its reserve for you and your little sister?" I suggested.

"I guess, but how did this room appeared, it was so nice to see that we got ourselves rooms." Carrie said happily.

"I guess sis..." Mason said, smiling softly at her. Suddenly, something came out of his scarf as two squirrels, both black and white, let out a yawn. Seems to me that those two animals just woken up.

"Aww, those two are so cute!" Fluttershy exclaimed, smiling at the two squirrels before turning to Mason. "Do those two belong to you?"

"Yes, the white squirrel is name Nate while the black squirrel is name Madeline, or Maddy for short." Mason said as he petted both his two squirrels. They smiled back as they waved to us.

"Hi there!" Kodi waved happily at the two squirrels, who became frightened as they hid back inside Alex's long red scarf. "Did I say something wrong?"

"Um...I think we can talk about this next time, Kodi." I said, smiling nervously at him. I already know why those two squirrels, Nate and Maddy, were afraid of him because he's a dog, and dog chases squirrels, along with cats, which I don't know why.

"Anyway, you gotta admit, for someone who take things serious, you got some good animal friends." Applejack commented.

"Whatever..." Mason said as he noticed the sun setting from the window. "Anyway, it looks like this place is where we'll sleep. I wish you all goodnight." Mason said politely.

"Alright, but I'm going to send a message to Princess Celestia about you two." Twilight said, causing Carrie to be confused.

"Who's Princess Celestia, Twilight?" Carrie asked.

"Oh, she's one of the rulers of Equestria, along with her sister, Princess Luna." Twilight explained.

"She's right, and Twilight here is Princess Celestia's faithful student." I added with a smile. "She's awesome at magic and such, trust me."

"I'm not that good at magic, Ren..." Twilight said, chuckling a bit.

"Wow, that's so amazing!" Carrie said, giving off a cute smile.

"Yeah, but hey, by tomorrow, I'll show you two much more about Equestria, trust me, you two are gonna love it here until we find a way back home!" I said happily.

"Okay." Mason nodded before glancing away from us. Huh? That's it? Well that was easy.

"Okay, I guess so..." Carrie nodded in agreement.

"Well, I guess we should get some shut-eye." Applejack said, letting out a yawn.

"You are right Applejack, I do need my beauty sleep." Rarity said as she began heading downstairs.

"Well anyway, see ya later!" Dash said before flying down.

"Well, I guess I'll leave this in your hands Ren, good luck." Twilight said, smiling towards me. I nodded to her as she and Fluttershy began leaving, well not before Fluttershy gave me a soft smile before leaving. Me and Kodi turned to Mason and Carrie.

"Anyway, since you'll be living with me, I just hope we become good friends!" I said happily.

"Okay Ren!" Carrie said happily. Mason, however, just glanced away and let out a sigh. Wow, this guy seems too stubborn to even listen or care....I guess.

"Okay, bye Mason and Carrie, see ya in the morning!" Kodi said happily as we headed back downstairs. We finally arrived back to my living room as I was getting ready to go to sleep. "So Ren, what do you think of them?"

"You mean Mason and Carrie?" I asked, which Kodi nodded. "Well to be honest, Carrie is fun since she has that spunky and kind personality like Fluttershy, but Mason has a serious personality, though, I'm still wondering why he doesn't want to be friends with us, or possibly anyone at all."

"Maybe he'll tell us someday." Kodi said as we headed inside our rooms.

"Yeah, I hope so..." I said as I gotten into my bed. "Well, goodnight Kodiak."

"Goodnight Ren." Kodi said before sleeping near me. As I closed my eyes, one thing occured to me that me realize something that me and my friends were supposed to do as we came to my home-ship.

"Oh dang it! I forgot about the party!" I exclaimed. Oh well, I guess Pinkie will make up tomorrow for both Mason and Carrie's welcome to Ponyville party...I hope.




The Next Day

I slowly gotten out of bed as I saw the sun rising from the window. Oh boy, I guess its a new day here in Equestria. I gotten out of bed, headed to the bathroom, brush my teeth, and put on my clothes and headed towards the kitchen to make some breakfast. As soon as I got to the kitchen, I found Mason making some pancakes and Carrie eating some. Oh right, I forgot that a new room has been discovered and now that I found two more humans living with me.

"Oh, good morning Ren!" Carrie greeted me.

"Good morning..." Mason said, glancing towards me before focusing on his pancakes.

"Oh hey guys, I didn't know you were up this early." I said, letting out a yawn.

"I woke up very early while my sis just sleeps all day." Mason replied, putting a pancake on a plate.

"Good morning...everyone..." We turned around to see Kodiak walking into the kitchen with a big yawn. "What's that delicious smell?"

"Oh, just some pancakes." Mason said, smiling softly towards my dog. "Would you like some?"

"Sure!" Kodi nodded as Mason put some pancakes on his doggy bowl and began gobbling it down. I chuckled a bit at his hunger before turning to Mason.

"So after breakfast, let me show you around Ponyville." I offered. "Since you two will get lost around here, no offense, I thought I should give you two the grand tour."

"Sure, why not." Mason shrugged.

"Okay!" Carrie said happily.

"Well then, it's decided. I can't wait for you guys to see what Ponyville is like!" I said, sitting down on the table while Mason handed me my plate of pancakes. "Trust me, everypony in Ponyville are very nice ponies and will be your friends. Well, they might be a little surprised to see two more humans but just give them a chance."

Carrie nodded happily while Mason just let out a sigh. "Very well..." Mason said as he took a bite of his pancakes. Okay seriously, this guy needs help on making friends.





"Wow, this place is so amazing!" Carrie said happily, seeing the buildings of Ponyville. After breakfast, like I promised, I was giving them the grand tour of Ponyville. While we were walking down the path, I noticed some ponies looking at us in surprised, well mostly at the two new humans.

"More humans?!"

"I thought Ren was the only one!"

"Where did they came from?"

"Are they friendly?"

"That black haired creature scares me with that look on his face." Everypony started murmuring about them. Carrie looked around in confusion while her brother growled in anger at them. I guess I can understand, almost everypony here were afraid of me back when Nightmare Moon came and tried to make night time in Equestria forever. Speaking of Nightmare Moon, I wonder how Princess Luna is doing, I haven't seen her for a while since Twilight decided to live here in Ponyville and me staying here and have fun with my friends. I guess I'll ask Celestia about it.

While walking, I saw a familiar yellow Pegasus walking by. "Hey, isn't that Fluttershy? The pony we met last night when we woken up in that spaceship or something?" Carrie asked, noticing Fluttershy walking down.

"Yeah, it is! Hey Fluttershy!" I waved happily at her. Fluttershy noticed us as she smiled happily to see us.

"Hi Ren, Carrie, Kodiak, and Mason." Fluttershy said as we walked towards her. "What brings you guys here today?" Fluttershy asked curiously.

"Oh, I was just showing them around Ponyville since these guys are new here." I said, smiling towards her. You know, whenever I see her and the others, it just makes me happy that they're my friends.

"Hey, what's in the basket?" Kodi asked, sniffing it at it.

"Oh, I was just done grooming Rarity's pet for her. I was just about to take her back to the shop." Fluttershy said, looking at her basket before looking back at us. "Would you all like to come with me?"

"Sure, why not!" I replied with a nod. "I mean, they can get to know about Carousel Boutique."

"And I suppose we don't have a choice." Mason said with a shrug. "Alright, let's go..."

"Cool! Let's go!" Carrie said as we began heading over to Rarity's dress shop. While walking, I noticed Kodi growling at the basket, much to my confusion.

"What's wrong Kodi?" I asked in concern. Kodi snapped out of his growl before turning back to me.

"I-I don't know, but whatever's inside that basket is just making me...so agile." Kodi said, looking back at the basket. Really? Well I wonder what kind of pet Rarity has? I've never even knew she had a pet at all. As we arrived to the shop, Fluttershy ran the doorbell and waited for it, but no answer.

"Is she not here?" Carrie asked, tilting her head a little.

"I don't know." I shrugged as I knocked on her door, but the door slightly opened. Huh? Strange, it's not like for Rarity to leave the door ajar like that. I just hope nothing bad happened to her. We headed inside and looked around until we saw Rarity doing something with a sewing machine. Rarity then noticed us with a surprised expression.

"Oh? Ren, Fluttershy? What are you two doing here? Along with Mason and Carrie, darlings?" Rarity asked,.

"Oh, we're sorry Rarity." I said with a sheepish smile. "We didn't know you were busy, but as I knocked on your door, the door suddenly opened itself. So sorry if we barged in."

Rarity gasp as she said "Ren! Fluttershy! Forgive me!" She apologized. "I was so wrapped up in my work that I forgot to lock the door."

"Nah, it's alright." I replied.

"So you work here?" Mason asked in a curious yet serious tone.

"W-well, yes, more like I own this place." Rarity said happily. "You see, this is a dress shop, which I worked real hard to make. By the way, why don't I make some for you and your little sister, Mason darling?"

"Thanks but...no thanks, I'm good." Mason said as he swift his hair. So is he a polite guy or a serious stern one? I can't tell with him anymore.

"Oh, by the way Rarity..." Fluttershy spoke up as she showed her the basket she was carrying. "I was bringing Opalescence back from her grooming. I've just left her in the basket." A white cat popped out of the basket and hopped off, purring.

"Ooh, she's so adorable!" Carrie commented.

"A cat?!" Kodi exclaimed in shock. Wait, oh crap! "Grr!" Kodi began growling at the cat, but the cat hissed at him back and tried to use her claws to scratch him. I immediately picked Kodi up and glared at the cat.

"I'm so sorry Rarity, I didn't mean for Kodiak to do that." I apologized before turning to Kodi with a stern look. "Please, say you're sorry."

"Fine..." Kodi rolled his eyes before looking back at the cat. "I'm sorry..." Kodi said, which Opal turned her head away, much to Kodi's anger.

"Kodi, just relax. I know that Opal is a cat, even that I'm surprised that Rarity even has one, but you need to be respectful towards her." I lectured him.

"Okay..." Kodi sighed as I put him back down, but he glared right back at Opal, who glared at him back. Oh boy, this is not what I wanted my day to be.

"I should be the one apologizing Ren." Rarity said sadly as she walked to Opal. "I just don't understand why she acts like that or even tries to swipe my face with her claws." Rarity moved her head close to Opal, but back away as she was trying to slash Rarity with her claws. "Ahh! See?"

"Let me try." Mason stepped forward and bent down on Opal's height level. He reached out for her and started petting her, which made purred as Mason picked her up and started petting her, making a soft smile at her. Me and the others, except Carrie, became surprised to see him doing that. I guess he has a thing for animals, huh?

"Wow, I didn't know you were an animal lover yourself Mason." Fluttershy complimented.

"I just don't like talking about myself, okay?" Mason said, not interested in that subject. I wonder if Carrie tell me why he's acting such a jerk? Maybe I could learn more about him.

"Wow, Mason darling, you were marvelous on taming Opalescence." Rarity said, gawking at her now tamed pet cat. "It's like Fluttershy using the Stare!" Wait what? Rarity then paused for a moment at what she said as she slowly turned to Fluttershy with a worried expression. "Flutterhsy, you wouldn't happen to use the Stare on her?"

Me, Mason, Kodi, and Carrie raised a brow at what Rarity said. The Stare? What, like, looking at an animal dead in the eyes or something? Can Fluttershy do something like that?

"Oh, no!" Fluttershy responded in fear. "I wouldn't! I couldn't! I-I don't really have control over whent that happens. No, I'm just good with animals. It's my special gift, you know?"

"Well, you should have a picture of Opal as a cutie mark instead of those butterflies." Rarity winked in a good way.

"Cutie mark? What's that?" Carrie asked curiously. I was about to answer that until Kodi beat me to it.

"Oh, it's a mark on a Pony's flank that shows that they have a talent!" Kodi replied.

"Really? That seems like a...little weird." Carrie chuckled. Well, even I have to admit, it was ridiculous to even do that.

"Ooh, ooh, oh, oh, oh, oh!" Huh? We looked to see Sweetie Belle coming downstairs with a happy expression. "Did somepony say that they need help with taming animals?" Sweetie Belle asked before noticing me, Mason, and Carrie, causing her to jaw-dropped. "W-what? I-I thought that Ren was the only human here in Ponyville?!"

"Yeah, about that, apparently not..." I said, rubbing my head bashfully with a sweat-dropped.

"And who's that?" Mason asked, gazing at the young pony.

"Oh, this is my sister, Sweetie Belle." Rarity introduced her sister to them.

"Oh, so she's so cute!" Carrie commented, waving towards Sweetie Belle, which she responded by waving slowly at her.

"Hi." Wow, even Sweetie Belle was even shocked to see them, but she was happy to hear that compliment from Carrie. She shook her head before turning back to her sister.

"Anyway..." Rarity spoke up. "I'm sorry I can't invite you all to stay and chat. I've bitten off a bit more than I can chew with this order."

"But you're not eating anything." Sweetie Belle said, confused on what Rarity meant.

"Actually, it's an expression." I replied.

"He's right, Sweetie." Rarity agreed with me. "It means that I've taken on more work than I can handle. I've got twenty of these special robes to make tonight! They're due in Trottingham tomorrow morning." She then grabbed a gold and glittering cloth and presented it to us, causing Fluttershy and Carrie to gasp in surprised.

"That's so beautiful!" Carrie commented.

"I know, right?" Rarity said happily. "I've lined them in a special gold silk. It took so long to make, but I think it adds just the right touch, don't you?"

"These are lovely." Fluttershy responded as she observed it.

"Wow, twenty by tonight?" Kodi said, surprised to hear how much work Rarity must go through. "How will you get it all done?"

"Well I, uh..." Rarity couldn't find the right words to respond back to Kodiak.

"Oh, oh, oh!" Sweetie Belle cried out. "Maybe I could..." Sweetie Belle then shut up by the cold stare Rarity gave her. "...Just...just stand over here and watch." Sweetie Belle smiled sheepishly while walking over to a corner.

"I'll manage." Rarity answered Kodi's question.

"Was that really necessary to do that to your own little sister?" Mason said, glaring at Rarity.

"Well, it just that with her helping out is well...." Rarity tried to find the right words until Mason spoke up again as he put Opal down.

"She was trying to help you, and you just treated her like she was your friend. She's your sister and you need to treat her like one, or else you don't care about her at all." Mason said, glaring at Rarity, which she fumed in anger.

"I do care about Sweetie Belle! I was just-"

"No, you were just wasting time, I guess like they always say 'Every rose has its thorns.'" Rarity was glaring angrily at Mason for her saying that to Sweetie Belle. What's up with him? "Now if you would excuse me, I'll happily be taking my leave." Mason then walked out of the shop, leaving all of us surprised while Rarity was growling in anger.

"Big brother, wait!" Carrie went after him.

"Sorry girls, I'll see ya later!" I waved goodbye as I went after both Mason and Carrie. Oh dang it, what was that all about?! Is it because he cares for his sister so much that he dislikes people always treating their siblings like what happen back there? I just hope they didn't go too far.

As we ran around town to find them, I finally found them as Carrie was trying to calm her brother down.

"There they are!" Kodi pointed out. We ran towards them, grabbing their attention.

"Hey guys, what was happening back there?" I asked in worried.

"I don't know, but Mason does whenever he sees mistreating or talks to their siblings like what happen back at Rarity's shop." Carrie explained as Mason was trying to find peace by playing with his two pet squirrels.

I see...um..Mason, listen-"

"Please forgive me." Mason quickly apologized, much to my surprise. Well that was easier than I thought. "I...was just a little angry at what your friend did to her sister, I just don't like siblings fighting over nor control them like their slaves and such."

"I see..." I said, wondering about that. Wow, for a serious guy, he seems to care at least. It's almost...kinda cute.

"Hey, you need to relax, that's all." Kodi said, smiling towards Mason. Suddenly, his two squirrels, Nate and Maddy became surprised to see him as they immediately hid in Alex's scarf, much to Kodi's disappointment. I rubbed Kodi's head to cheer him up.

"Don't worry bud, maybe someday, they'll get to know and you'll be friends in the end." I assured.

"Okay!" Kodi nodded.

"Wow, you and Kodiak must be good friends!" Carrie complimented me. I chuckled a bit and rubbed my head bashfully.

"Yeah..." Mason smiled softly towards us. Huh, it likes he openly admits to us as he inspects us. Probably just examining us whether or not to trust us. Mason then let out a sigh and frowned a bit.

"Hey, what's wrong?" Carrie asked in worried.

"It's nothing sis." Mason softly smiled at her. "It's just that...I just wished I go and relax somewhere to calm my mind."

"Oh, well you can always go to the spa, that sometimes helps my friends whenever they get too stressed...sometimes." I admitted.

"N-no, I meant somewhere where I could be in my own happy place, a place where I could be with animals." Mason specified. I became surprised to hear that from him. Well Fluttershy, it sounds like we found another animal lover. Wait a minute, that's it!

"I know, why not go to Fluttershy's cottage?" I asked, smiling happily at them.

"Fluttershy?" Carrie asked curiously.

"Oh yeah, she's has tons of animals, so maybe you could go and enjoy yourself." Kodi said happily.

"Thank you." Mason bowed, causing me to smile towards him.

"You don't have to do that, we're friends after all." I said, causing him to be surprised.

"Friends? But didn't I tell you that I don't do friends?" Mason reminded me.

"Well true, but after getting to you know today, I know you're a nice person." I said, causing him to look away, but I noticed the blush on his face. I guess I might've gotten to him. Though, I am curious on why he's serious on not wanting to make friends?

"Alright everyone, let's go!" Kodi said, leading us. Carrie chuckled at this as she began following him, along with us. It seems that Carrie grew fond with Kodiak, that's good...for a talking dog that is.




Later

We finally arrived to Fluttershy's cottage like we promised as I knocked on her door. "Fluttershy, you here?" Five seconds later, the door open slowly, revealing Fluttershy.

"Oh hi Ren, Kodi, Carrie, and Mason, what are you doing here?" Fluttershy asked.

"Oh, we came here showing Mason and Carrie your home and to see some of your animals." I explained, causing Fluttershy to frown. "Yeah, what's wrong?"

"It's nothing Ren, it's just that-"

"Cutie Mark Crusader creature catchers!" Huh? Who said that? I took a peekfrom behind Fluttershy to somepony playing around. Strange, that loud voice said 'Cutie Mark Crusader'. Wait a minute, doesn't that mean...

"Hey Fluttershy, are the crusaders here?" I asked, which she nodded.

"Why yes, apparently Sweetie Belle accidentally used Rarity's gold coat fabric, being angry at her and cancelling her and her friends Cutie Mark sleepover, so I decided to allow them to have it here at my cottage." Fluttershy explained as we began to hear some ruckus going, causing Fluttershy to groan. I couldn't hep but feel sorry for her, it sounds like she needs help.

"What's a Cutie Mark Crusader?" Carrie asked.

"They're just a group of fillies trying to find their Cutie Marks." Kodi replied happily.

"But...aren't Cutie Marks born on a pony's flank like Ren said?" Carrie reminded us with that fact.

"W-well...what I heard from Twilight, apparently, you can't be born one with a Cutie-Mark, so when the time is right, you find your special talent, gaining your Cutie-Mark in the process."

"I see..." Carrie nodded, understanding of it.

"Anyway..." I turned back to Fluttershy with a smile on my face. "Would it be alright if we head inside and help you?" I asked.

"O-oh, well I wouldn't want to trouble you but-"

"Don't worry, we got this!" I assured her. Fluttershy blushed lightly at me and said "O-Okay, maybe I do need a little help."

"Thank you, come on guys." I said, gesturing to come inside. Carrie and Kodi walked in with me, Mason walked in last as Fluttershy closed the door. As soon as we walked, we saw the Crusaders themselves, playing around while wearing costumes. We even saw how much of a mess they were making around the house. Yep, Fluttershy definitely needs help.

"Come back, dangerous creature, so I can catch you!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed as she bounched off of Fluttershy's head!

"Never!" Apple Bloom and Scootaloo exclaimed.

"Hey girls!" I waved to them, grabbing their attention.

"Ren!" The three jumped onto me and started hugging me.

"We're so happy to see you again!" Scootaloo said.

"Yeah, what are you doing here?" Apple Bloom asked. "Are you here to join in our Cutie Mark Sleepover?"

"Well..."

"Hi there!" Carrie waved happily them. Sweetie Belle waved back at Carrie, happy to see her again while the other two became shocked to see two more humans here.

"Um...Ren, do you notice that there's two more ponies that looks like you?" Apple Bloom said, widening her eyes in shock.

"Oh right." I said, laughing nervously as the Crusaders got off of me as I got back up. "These are my new friends, Mason Hunter, and his little sister, Carrie."

"Hello!" Carrie waved happily at them, but Mason waved to him and didn't say anything. Back to his cold serious personality, huh? Thought so.

"So, how about you join us, huh?" Scootaloo offered.

"Okay, why not!" Carrie said.

"Yeah, me too! Me too!" Kodi jumped up and down in a joyful manner.

"That's nice." Fluttershy replied as she stepped forward. "Now, how about we play a game?"

"A game?" Apple Bloom asked as she and the other girls walked over to sit on the couch excitedly, but calm so far.

"It's called 'Shhh!'" Fluttershy said.

"What's that?" Scootaloo asked in confusion.

"Oh that's easy." I said happily. "It's a game where we must be quiet the longest." I explained the rules of the game.

"That's right Ren." Fluttershy nodded. "Doesn't that sound so fun?" I noticed the looks on the girls, including Carrie and Kodi as they were bored as heck. "Well...Oh, I'm the world champ, you know. I bet you can't beat me!" Fluttershy said, squealing as she smiled, took a deep breath and held all the air in.

"I lose!" Scootaloo immediately shouted out.

"Me too!" Sweetie Belle added.

"Me three!" Apple Bloom nodded.

"Ahh...but that's no fair." Carrie pouted as she couldn't held all the air inside of her as Fluttershy's. Speaking of which, Fluttershy released the breath she held in. I shook my head and sigh as the girls started to go hyper.

"Okay, now what can we do?" Apple Bloom asked her friends. "Oooh! How about Cutie Mark Crusader coal miners?"

"Hey, that's sound like fun!" Carrie agreed.

"Yeah, and I'm an excellent digger!" Kodi agreed as they started cheering.

"YEAH!" The fillies, Carrie, and Kodiak yelled.

"NO!" Fluttershy exclaimed.

"Awww!" They became disappointed to hear that they won't be able to enjoy that activity.

I mean, it's time for bed, don't you think?" Fluttershy said, changing the tone of her voice.

"Good call." Mason spoke up, agreeing with Fluttershy's decision.

"Aren't you excited to get all toasty and warm in your snuggly-wuggly widdle beds?" Fluttershy said, trying to all cutesy with them.

"Snuggly-wuggly? But we have more crusading to do!" Apple Bloom replied.

"We've got plans!" Scootaloo added.

"And capes!" Sweetie Belle replied, as she presented the capes that were in her saddle.

"Wait, aren't those capes made from the same golden fabric Rarity used?" I asked, noticing the shiny golden color on the capes.

Sweetie Belle smiled sheepishly and began laughing nervously. "Maybe..." She muttered. Yeah, I thoughts so.

"Um, okay, um...Maybe the crusading can wait until morning? When it's light? And not so...dark?" Fluttershy as she began leading the girls upstairs. That last part caused me to raise a brow, is she afraid of the dark as well? Wow, I never meant anyone who's afraid of..well just about almost anything. "Come on Ren, Carrie, Kodi, and Mason, I may need your help..."

"Okay." Mason responded as we began heading upstairs to her bedroom. Fluttershy was comforting her little guests on the bed.

"How are we gonna find our special talent in our sleep?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Maybe you'll have a lovely little dream about getting your Cutie-Marks?" Carrie suggested as soon as Fluttershy blew out the candle.

"But we're not even tired!" Scootaloo complained.

"How about I sing you a lullaby?" Fluttershy offered.

"Mm-hmm, yeah!" They agreed. As Fluttershy was about to sing, Mason spoke up.

"Um...actually, can I sing for them?" Mason asked politely.

"Oh well...sure, why not." Fluttershy nodded. Mason is gonna sing? Huh, I wonder if he's that good of a singer. Mason cleared his throat and began singing.


Hush now, quiet now
It's time to lay your sleepy head
Husk now, quiet now
It's time to go to bed


The three girls began looking sleepy as they began closing their eyes and yawning.

"Oh Mason, that was a wonderful." Fluttershy commented with a warm smile.

"It was...nothing." Mason said, glancing away from her. "It just that I sing lullabies to Carrie back at the orphanage."

"Orphanage?" I asked, curiously.

"N-never mind..." Mason kinda hesitant for a sec. Wonder what's up? But the important part is that he and Carrie are orphans. Does that mean that they don't have a family or whatnot. I guess I should probably ask him when he feels like it I guess. Anyway, I looked back at the girls to see Scootaloo and Apple Bloom closing their eyes, finally going to sleep. Sweetie Belle was about to do the same, but instead, she open her eyes immediately.

"I know this one!" She exclaimed, waking up the other two.

"Oh, how wonderful!" Fluttershy said happily. "Why don't you sing it with us?"

Sweetie Belle nodded and began clearing her bed. I then noticed Apple Bloom and Scootaloo covering their ears for some reason. Oh come on, she can't sing that bad.


Hush now! Quiet now!
It's time to lay your sleepy head!


"My ears!" Carrie covered her ears in pain.

"Gah! It hurts!" Kodi began whimpering from the terrible singing, and so did me, Fluttershy, and Mason. "Make it stop!"


"Said hush now! Quiet now!
It's time to go to bed!


"Okay Sweetie...that was-" Fluttershy tried speaking to her but it didn't work out.


Drifting off to sleep!
The exciting day behind you!
Diffing off to sleep!
Let the joy of dream land find you!


Due to Sweetie's loud and terrible singing voice, many things off of Fluttershy's shelf began to fall.

"Gah!" I exclaimed as I immediately dived in and caught, with help from Mason, no less.

"Thank you, Sweetie, um.." Fluttershy tried to stop this again, but she just kept going.


Hush now! Quiet now!
Lay your sleepy head!
Said hush now! Quiet now!
It's time to BEEEEEEED! OW!


Sweetie Belle had caused her friends to be under the covers while Fluttershy, Kodiak, and Carrie had been on the floor, covering their ears. Me and Mason placed the items back on the shelf, relieved for Sweetie Belle to stop singing. Okay, I take it back though, she's not a good singer.

"Sounds to me you won't be able to find your talent by singing." Mason muttered. Well, he...does have a point. Suddenly, we started to hear some noises coming outside.

"What is that?" Scootaloo asked. The girls got out of the covers and started running downstairs.

"Hey wait, girls!" I exclaimed as I helped Fluttershy from the floor.

"Where was that anyway?" Kodi asked, hearing more of the noises coming outside.

"That's coming out from my chicken coop!" Fluttershy exclaimed as she began heading back downstairs. We all looked at each other, and began following after her.

We came outside to find the girls trying to round up the chickens.

"Don't worry, we got this!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed, chasing after one of the chickens.

"Yeah! Cutie Mark Crusader Chicken Herders!" The three fillies announced happily. "Yay!"

"H-hey wait, girls!" I exclaimed as I tried to stop them, but a chicken jumped onto my face and started attacking. "GAH! Hey stop that!" I exclaimed in shock. Luckily, Mason helped by grabbing the chicken and calming it down.

"There, there, there. Just relax." Mason said in a soft voice. The chicken soon started to calm down. I then noticed Carrie and Kodi rounding up the chickens while also trying to stop the girls.

"Girls!" Fluttershy exclaimed, causing the girls to grow very quiet while Carrie and Kodi finally got all of the chickens and brought them back to the chicken coop. Fluttershy let out a sigh and smiled softly at Carrie and Kodiak helping rounding up the chickens.

"Thank you so much you two." Fluttershy thanked them.

"No problem Fluttershy!" Carrie nodded.

"Yeah, anything for a friend!" Kodi added. Fluttershy nodded by noticed a chicken stopped at the entrance and refused to go inside.

Fluttershy saw this and immediately changed the look on her face. She opened her eyes wide and stared right into the chickens' eyes. They immediately grew frightened and slowly backed off to the inside of their house. Fluttershy replaced her expression afterwards. Wonder what was that all about? Even Mason was surprised to see what just happen, well just a little. "They're some good chickens." Fluttershy muttered before walking over to the fillies. "Okay, you three. Isn't it about time you got into bed?"

"But-"

"Please girls, you need some rest." Mason said gently. The girls lowered their heads in sadness as they started to head back to the cottage.

"Thank you so much." Fluttershy said gently.

"No problem Fluttershy." I said, rubbing my head bashfully with a smile.

"It was nothing, right Carrie?" Mason asked as he turned around to see that she wasn't around. "C-Carrie?"

"Where did she go?" Fluttershy asked. I then noticed that Kodiak wasn't around either.

"Oh no, not Kodi too!" I exclaimed. I don't get it, they were here before, so where did they go? I then noticed footprints on the ground, no wait, they're paw-prints, and these paw-prints belongs to...Kodi!

"They must've entered the Everfree Forest!" I exclaimed, realizing where they went, much to Mason and Fluttershy's shock.

"Tell me, is the Everefree Forest dangerous at night?" Mason asked.

"Well yeah, and we should hurry and fast! Come on!" I said before turning to Fluttershy. "Stay here Fluttershy so that the girls don't run away, okay?"

"Okay." Fluttershy nodded. Me and Mason began heading towards the Everfree Forest to save Carrie and Kodiak from danger.





"Dang it, where could they be?!" I asked, looking around in panic. I just hope they didn't encountered any danger.

"Please Carrie, be alright." Mason muttered in worried. I can relate to him, if something happen to my parents, my brother, or my sister, I would never forgive myself. While walking around, we started to hear some noise as we finally found who we were looking for.

“Carrie!”

“Kodiak!” They were looking through the bushes, like they were looking for something. At the call of their names, they turned around with surprise.

“Ren!” Kodi shouted.

“Big brother, what are you doing here?!” Carrie asked in surprise.

“Carrie! Thank god!” Mason immediately hugged his sister in fear before looking at her with a stern look. “Please don’t do that again! What were you thinking at walking off like that?!”

“Sorry, it was just that we saw another chicken running off towards this forest, and so we went after it!” Carrie explained.

“It’s true, and my smell has been getting off-tracked the moment we got here, meaning that we can’t find the chicken.” Kodi added.

“Well, even so, it’s still wrong to walk out by yourself, come on, let’s go.” Mason offered his hand, which Carrie accepted.

“But wait, what about the chicken?” Kodi asked.

“Don’t worry Kodiak, we’ll tell Fluttershy and we can go-” Suddenly, something slipped past me, causing me to go pale.

“What? What’s wrong?” Kodi asked, noticing my pale expression.

“G-guys, maybe we should go…now!” I said as we began walking away from that area. What the heck was that?! I just hope that we don’t encounter whatever slipped past behind me. As we continued on, I then noticed a shadow up ahead. I took a closer look and realized who it was.

“Twilight?” I called out.

“Wait, isn’t she that purple Unicorn we met yesterday?” Mason asked. I nodded as we walked towards her, as I let out a sigh of relief. Thank goodness that we’re okay with her around.

“Well, it’s nice to see Twilight again, so what are you doing here in the…Everfree…” I slowly stopped to see that Twilight hasn’t move an inch. What’s going on with her? Soon, the dark clouds that covered the moonlight moved out of the way and uncovered Twilight, who was literally a statue.

“GAAAAAAHHH!” Me and Kodiak screamed in shock as I fell down on my butt.

“T-T-T-Twilight!” Kodi shivered in fear, almost like he was going to pee himself.

“What the heck?” Mason muttered, surprised to see Twilight like this.

“Oh no, what happen to Twilight?” Carrie asked, holding on her brother’s hand tightly.

“I don’t know, but whatever did this is gonna pay.” Mason said, darkening his face. Dang, he’s sure is hardcore with that scary glare he’s giving off.

“Girls! Girls?!” Huh? That voice, it couldn’t be, right? We followed after the voice, but I turned back to the frozen stature state of Twilight.

“Hang on Twilight, we promise we’ll find a way to cure you!” I exclaimed in determination before going after Fluttershy with the others. As we kept running, we looked through a grove of trees to see Fluttershy and the Crusaders. Oh thank god, they’re alright!

“Girls, thank goodness you’re alright!” Fluttershy said, sighing in relief.

“Fluttershy!” I called, catching the others attention.

“Ren and Mason? Is that you? And did you find Carrie and Kodiak?” Fluttershy asked in cocnern before noticing the two, much to her relief.

“We’re fine, right now, but what are the fillies doing here?” Mason asked in a serious expression.

“We were looking for one of Fluttershy’s missing chicken!” Sweetie Belle explained.

“Huh? That’s weird, we were looking for one too, that’s why we came here to this forest.” Carrie said, much to the crusaders confusion. Strange, how did two chicken disappeared like that?

“Well, I admire you all helping me find my missing chickens, but Mason is right.” Fluttershy agreed. “We need to get you all out of here! There’s a cockatrice on the loose!”

“Cocka-what?” I asked.

“That sounds like a weird name.” Kodi said, raising a brow.

“A cockatrice is a frightening creature with the head of a chicken and the body of a snake.” Fluttershy explained nervously. “Now come on!”

“The head of a chicken and the body of a snake?” Scootaloo asked in disbelief. “That doesn’t sound scary, that sounds silly!”

“We are leaving!” Fluttershy exclaimed immediately in fear. “We need to get out of here before the cockatrice turns us into stone!”

“Stone?!” The girls, Mason, Carrie, Kodi, and I exclaimed in shock and confusion. Wait a minute, does that mean the reason why Twilight got turned into stone because of this cockatrice?

“Well, if you look into a cockatrice in the eye-” Fluttershy was interrupted by a clucking sound. Hey, wait a minute…We turned around to see one of Fluttershy’s chicken.

“Look, there’s the chicken!” Apple Bloom shouted as she and the girls started chasing after it. “Chic-chick-chick-chick-chick-chick!”

“Girls!” Me, Mason, and I exclaimed, chasing after them. Oh come on, I understand they want to help but seriously?!





We chased after the girls as we finally caught up to them, seeing the chicken pops it head out of the bushes.

“There it is!” Sweetie Belle pointed out. But suddenly, another head popped out.

“Two chickens?” Scootaloo asked, confused to see two of them.

“I thought only one escaped?” Apple Bloom reminded them.

“Hey, that’s the chicken that me and Kodiak saw!” Carrie said, reminding them why she and Kodi headed straight for the Everfree Forest. I looked at the chicken and became quite confused at it. Something about this chicken doesn’t seem right.

“Well, let’s grab them both and get out of here!” Kodi said, wanting to get out of here so that we won’t face up to that cockatrice. Sweetie Belle was going to grabbed it, but as she was gonna grabbed them, the second chicken’s head popped out of the bushes, but it wasn’t a chicken at all. Beneath its chicken was a big scaly body with bat-like wings and a long serpentine tail. It growled viciously at us, revealing its sharp teeth and burning red eyes.

“Oh dear…” I muttered, my face turning pale and I think I peed a little on my pants.

“Whatever you do, don’t move.” Mason muttered towards us.

“I can’t even move my body at all, big brother!” Carrie exclaimed quietly towards her brother. The cockatrice jumped in front of the innocent young chicken, which was also too scared to move, as the cockatrice looked into the chicken’s eye, completely turning him to stone.

“Well…I saw that coming…” Kodi muttered in fear.

“AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!” We all screamed and ran away from it.

“Keep running!” I exclaimed as we kept running away from the pursuing cockatrice!

“I’m trying but-OOF!” Carrie tripped on a rock, making all of us trip over as well. Man, that hurt. As we slowly got up, we all gasped to see the petrified Twilight. Huh, strange, I could’ve sworn that we were farther away from that statue. Guess we must’ve ran in circles.

“Girls! We have to-” Fluttershy was interrupted by all the screams by the fillies, even Kodiak and Carrie were being scared to death. I then saw the Cockatrice approaching us, ready to take care of us. I growled in anger as I took out my Hacking Gun, which by the way, should’ve used it the moment we saw that cockatrice.

“Let me help.” Mason stepped forward, ready to take down this cockatrice. “I do not how would a megaphone will defeat this ‘cockatrice’, but I won’t judge your choice of weapon.” Mason stated.

“Oh, you’ll be surprised to see what it can do!” I said, smirking at him before turning back to Fluttershy and the others. “Stay behind us you all!” They all nodded quickly as we were ready to face off the cockatrice.

Cockatrice raised its fist and was about to punch us, but I held up my Megaphone Hacking Gun. “Break!” I shot out ‘Break’ , hitting it in the cockatrice face, causing him great pain.

“Impressive.” Mason complimented. “Now, my turn! Haaa!” Mason jumped up and gave a swift kick at the cockatrice’s gut. The cockatrice held its stomach in pain while I got ready to shoot it again.

“Dance!” I shot ‘Dance’, causing the Cockatrice to be uncontrolled of its body as it began shaking around and dancing, causing the girls, Kodi, Fluttershy, and Carrie to chuckle at it. I just love this Hacking Gun so much.

“Alright, take this!” Alex took out his bamboo stick and whacked the Cockatrice many time on its leg, arms, and its own head. He landed back down on the ground with an awesome pose…like a boss! The cockatrice kneeled down in pain as it let out a roared and was trying to use its power to turn me into stone, but I dodged and aim my Hacking Gun at it.

“Break!” I shot another ‘Break’ and knocked it out. Ha! This is like fighting off a powerful final boss in the last level of a game. This is gonna be so easy! But I spoke too soon as the Cockatrice growled at me and began charging towards me. I was about to move, but Mason pushed me out of the way and took the hit himself, landing near the petrified Twilight.

“Mason!” Me and Carrie exclaimed in shock. This caused to growl at it.

“How dare you hurt my friend?! You’re gonna get it!” I said, firing multiple ‘Break’ shots at it, but it started dodging them before charging me. Oh boy, here we go. As the cockatrice was about to tackle me away, Fluttershy stepped in and glared at it, much to my surprise.

"Just who do you think you are, going around turning others into stone?" Fluttershy exclaimed in anger as the he cockatrice squawked in fear. "You should be ashamed of yourself. I have a mind to find your mother and tell her what you've been up to, young man. Now you go over there, and turn Elizabeak and my friend Twilight back to normal, and don’t ever hurt my friends, Mason and Ren ever again! And don't ever let me catch you doing this again! Do you understand me?!"

I widened my eyes to see her stand up to the cockatrice. Wow Fluttershy, that’s…the most amazing thing I’ve ever seen! And if that wasn’t enough, she stared at it right in the eye, causing the cockatrice to be frightened and use its powers on the petrified Twilight, who started to crack open, bringing her back. Soon after that, the cockatrice began running away in fear.

“W-what happened?” Twilight asked, groaning a bit. Mason soon started to get back up, much to our relief. Carrie rushed to her brother and hugged him tight.

“Mason! I’m so glad you’re alright! You had us worried!” Carrie said, at the verge of tears.

“I’m sorry sis.” Mason hugged her back tightly. Well, I’m glad to see them okay.

“Seriously, what just happened?” Twilight repeated her question. Suddenly, we started to hear some clucking sound and saw Fluttershy’s pet chicken, which I think her name was Elizabeak or whatever approached us, also restored back to normal as well. Guess that cockatrice learned its lesson and I feel bad for Mason taking the hit, I blame myself for not moving out of the way.

“Ren?” I turned to see Fluttershy coming towards me. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. But you should ask that to Mason, which by the way, I’m sorry for not moving out of the way.” I apologized to him.

“It’s alright Ren, I’m fine.” Mason nodded. “It was my choice to save you, but I’m glad none of you gotten hurt.” I let out a sigh to hear that he was alright and forgave me.

“Yeah, but more importantly, I’m just glad all of you are alright.” Fluttershy added.

“Yeah, we’re okay!” Sweetie Belle answered.

“Thanks to that stare of yours.” Apple Bloom added.

“Along with Mason’s awesome fighting skills and Ren’s Hacking Gun!” Kodi stated.

“You’re like the queen of stares, Fluttershy!” Scootaloo agreed. “You’re the..”

“The Stare Master!” The three crusaders shouted in unison.

Fluttershy blushed and giggled a little. “Yeah, but it was mostly both Ren and Mason who did the work. I just gave it ‘The Stare’ and made that cockatrice to go away.”

“Well even so, you still deserve the credit, and so does Mason, he helped alongside me as well, and so did you Fluttershy.” I said, smiling towards her. Fluttershy blushed a little from me.

“Y-yeah, I guess you’re right.” Fluttershy replied with a nod.

“Anyway, we’re sorry if we snuck out of the house and into the forest.” Sweetie apologized.

“Yeah, me too big brother.” Carrie apologized to her brother.

“Yeah, we should’ve listen to you.” Apple Bloom nodded in agreement.

“We promise that we won’t disobey you for now on.” Scootaloo assured with a soft smile.

“We promise.” Kodi nodded. I smiled softly and started petting him softly.

“Hey, it’s okay pal, you’re forgiven.” I said happily, much to Kodi’s joy.

“Oh, you do, do you? Well, you better, or I’ll give…” Fluttershy looked at the three crusaders, Carrie, and Kodiak straight at their eyes. “The Stare!” She made them be quiet while they became frightful at Fluttershy. Fluttershy soon began giggling, leading the other girls to begin laughing as well.

“Well, alls well that ends well.” I shrugged.

“Yeah, I guess so.” Mason said, getting back up slowly.

“Are you sure you’re alright?” Kodi asked worriedly.

“Don’t worry, I’m fine.” Mason said, dusting himself off. “After years of training of Ken-do, I learned to endure many attacks like that.”

“Oh, well I’m glad you’re alright.” I said, smiling towards him.

“Yeah, me too!” Carrie said happily.

“Yeah…Hey Ren.” Mason called me, catching my attention. “About your offer about you being my friend…I’ll accept it.”

“Huh?” I asked in surprise.

“Yes, I’ll be your friend…for now.” Mason said, giving me a glare. I was froze by the stare until he chuckled, causing us to laugh at him.

“Hey, who wants to eat some pizza back home?” Kodi suggested.

“Took the words right out of my mouth Kodiak!” I agreed as we began heading out of the forest with the others, including Twilight.

“So…is anyone gonna tell me?” She asked, wanting to know what happen.

“Oh…uh, it’s best if we tell you tomorrow, we’re all kinda tired.” I said, sweat-dropping. Twilight let out a sigh and smiled softly at me.

“Okay, fine, but I better have an explanation.” Twilight said as we began leaving the Everfree Forest. Well, I’m glad today was awesome, besides fighting off that cockatrice. And I’m glad that I’m now friends with two more humans. Although, it adds more questions. Why did I woke up early? Why did these two wake up after me? Is it possible that they’re might be more humans inside that ship sleeping? Well even so, I better be prepared for that moment someday…I think.





The Next Day

After we woke up, we were hanging out in Fluttershy’s cottage, enjoying ourselves by drinking some tea. Carrie and Kodiak were busy playing with the Crusaders. While drinking our tea, Fluttershy, Mason, and I were explaining the events that happen last night.

“…And thanks to Ren, Mason, and I, you were restored from stone!” Fluttershy said, finishing up the store. Twilight was busy writing off everything from our story, guess another Friendship report for Celestia.

“This is gonna make quite a letter to the princess.” Twilight said, smiling happily after she was done writing her letter. “I’m glad things turned out well, and I can’t wait for her to know about you and your little sister, Mason.”

“I guess so, I just hope we might meet one day.” Mason said, smiling softly at her while sipping on his tea.

“Yeah, but it was partly my fault, I suppose.” Fluttershy said sadly. “I assumed I’d be just as good with kids as I am with animals and boy was I wrong! I really learned the hard way about biting off more than I can chew.”

“You and Rarity both.” Twilight agreed.

“Tell me about it…” I nodded before noticing Rarity coming up to the cottage. “Speaking of which, good morning Rarity!”

“Oh good morning darlings, sorry if I was late.” Rarity said before noticing Mason as she scowled at him.  “And it’s nice to see you too…Mason.”

“Hello Rarity. About yesterday, I am sorry for what I said, I was just…a little-off. So please forgive me, I could make you some herb tea.” Mason offered, catching Rarity by surprise.

“O-oh, well that’s nice to hear. Well I forgive you for now that is, Mason darling.” Rarity said, bowing to Mason, who bowed back to her. It’s good to see Mason apologizing to Rarity.

“So Rarity, how did your delivery went?” I asked curiously.

“Oh, it was so difficult, but I managed to delivered it.” Rarity sighed. “But I must admit, Fluttershy, had you not come to my rescue, I might not have completed the order. Thanks again!”

“Won’t you stay for some tea?” Fluttershy offered.

“I would love too, but I really must get back to the shop to clean up.” Rarity politely declined. “Girls! Pack your things, it’s time to go…Girls?”

Me, Mason, Fluttershy, and Twilight watched with smirks on our faces as Rarity was already in vain for the girls not listening to her.

“GIRLS!” Rarity yelled out. I looked at Mason and Fluttershy, with the smirk on my face. They got the message as they nodded, going over to Rarity.

“Please, allow us.” Mason said as he cleared his throat.

“Girls?” He and Fluttershy called out. They suddenly stopped and fell in single file.

“Yes Fluttershy? Apple Bloom responded.

“You called?” Scootaloo asked.

“Go and get your things.” Fluttershy intrusted. “Rarity’s here to see you home!”

“And Carrie, say goodbye to your new friends.” Mason winked at her

“Okay.” Carrie nodded before turning to her friends. “I’ll see ya later!”

“Okay!” Apple Bloom nodded.

“We’ll see ya around.” Sweetie Belle added as they headed inside the cottage to go and get their stuff. We turned back to Rarity, who had a dumbfounded look on her face from what just transpired.

“H-how d-d-d…How did you do that?!” Rarity asked in shock Fluttershy gave a wink to me, Mason and Twilight. “I guess I’m just as good with kids as I am with animals.” The Cutie-Mark Crusaders came back, each carrying their full saddlebags.

“Bye, Fluttershy! Thank you! See ya later Stare Master!” They said in unison as they headed back home.

“Uh, speaking of which,” Rarity spoke up, bringing back up Opal. “I could use your help with Opal.” “Of course! How about later today?” Fluttershy suggested. Suddenly, Kodi noticed Opal and growled in anger at her, who hissed back at her.

“Kodi…” I gave a stern look at him.

“I’m sorry Ren, but I can’t take it anymore! Get over here!” Kodi began chasing after Opal as we watched over this fight with a sweat-dropped.

Rarity turned to us with a pleading look. “How about…now?” Twilight, Mason, Carrie and I walked over to Fluttershy as we became laughing at Kodiak chasing after Opal. Oh well, can’t blame it. It is his animal instincts. Besides, today’s a good day since I made friends with two new humans. I just hope that we can get out of here and find our way back home to our world.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 18 - The Show Stoppers!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So this is what your brother do sometimes when he wakes up from his sleep?" I asked curiously.

"Yeah, he likes to meditate to soothe his mind." Carrie said, smiling softly towards her brother. This morning, I found him outside on the hill in a meditating position. Wow, this guy is so focus on his meditation like Ryu from Street Fighters.

"Wow, no offense, but it sounds pretty boring." Kodi said, rolling his eyes.

"I know what you mean." Carrie agreed. "He makes me to do it sometimes and it hurts my legs, but luckily he's not doing that to me today." She sighed in relief. Oh trust me, I know how its feel to cross your legs when your sitting down whenever you're playing video games too long.

Soon after a while, Mason opened his eyes and got up as he turned around to us. "Oh, hello everyone, I see you enjoy the breakfast I made for you."

"Yeah we did." I smiled towards Mason. When I woke up, me, Kodiak, and Carrie discovered the table filled with eggs, pancakes with syrup, waffles, and bagels with butter on them. It was the best delicious ever. He's like a super dad, but he can't compare himself to my dad. "We came by to thank you for it."

"I-it was nothing." Mason said.

"Now that you're done, can we head over to meet up with my new friends?" Carrie asked.

"New friends? Do you mean...the Cutie-Mark Crusaders?" I guessed, which Carrie nodded happily.

"Yep! After that slumber party, we became good friends, and besides, I want to get to them more!" Carrie explained, getting all excited.

"Well, I guess why not." Mason shrugged.

"Okay, lets head over. Let's head over to Sweet Apple Acres first, that's where Apple Bloom is." I suggested. The two siblings nodded in agreement as we headed towards our first destination to go round up the Cutie-Mark Crusaders. You know, I never expected Carrie to actually make friends that easy, well it makes sense with that nice personality of hers.

While we walk down the road towards Sweet Apple Acres, Mason and Carrie were looking around the place. "You know, I'm still confuse about all this magic and such, but since we're trapped in another world, I guess I'll have to believe it." Mason stated, crossing his arms.

"Yeah, it took me quite a while to understand this situation, but I got used to it." I shrugged with a smile on my face.

"Hey, is that Sweet Apple Acres?" Carrie pointed out, seeing Applejack's farm across a distance.

"Yep, that's the place!" We came by and saw Applejack bucking some apples, probably doing her chores already. She then noticed us walk through the entrance as she waved happily at us.

"Howdy Ren, Kodi, Carrie, and Mason!" Applejack walked towards us with a grin on her face. "So what brings you all to my farm? Here to buy some apples?"

"Sorry Applejack, but not this time." I said, rubbing my head bashfully. "We came by to see if Apple Bloom was here so that Carrie could play with her and the other Crusaders." I explained.

"Oh, well there at my old tree-house and Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo are with Apple Bloom already." Applejack explained.

"Tree-house?" I asked, interested on that subject. "You got a tree-house?"

"Yeah, it was my old one, and so I gave to my sister and friends to let them enjoy it for their Cutie Mark Crusading." Applejack replied with a smile on her face.

"That was very nice of you to do that, Applejack." Mason smiled softly towards Applejack.

"Yeah, so where is it?" Kodi asked.

"Oh, I'll lead you all the way. Follow me." Applejack replied as she led us towards where it was. It turns out that Applejack's tree-house was a private part of the farm as it holds many memories when Applejack was a kid, or filly as she says. We passed through some bushes and trees until we spotted a nicely built tree-house.

"Wow, it's so beautiful." Carrie commented.

"Wow, after all these years Applejack, you've been able to keep it nice and clean." Kodi added,

"Nah, when I showed it to my sister and friends, it was all ruined." Applejack stated. "They must've rebuild it and such. I like it."

"Well, it just goes to show you that Apple Bloom and the other two are creative and good at decorating." I said with a grin. I mean, look at it, the house was painted in a link pink color. It had hearts on the windows and door. We even saw a ramp that was painted a greenish color and had steps for climbing. These girls are amazing.

"You know, I've always wanted a tree-house." I said, amazed by the designs.

"Really Ren?" Kodi asked, surprised to hear that. "Well, how it go?"

"Let's just say...never use the hammer and nails ever again." Why? Because it was terrible, a terrible painful experience I've ever went.

"I'm...not even gonna question that." Mason said, widening his eyes in surprise upon hearing that.


"They all say that you will get your, when the time is really right..."
 

Huh? Hey, isn't that Scootaloo and is she...singing? We looked inside the clubhouse through the window.


"And you know just what you're supposed to do..." 


Apple Bloom sang the next verse of the song.


"AND YOUR TALENT COMES TO LIGHT!" 


Sweetie Belle's voice suddenly shouted, causing us to cover our ears. Oh right, I forgot about that she's terrible at singing, not that I'll admit it to her.

"Yeah...gonna need to work on that." Mason said, covering his ears. Well he's a different story.

"Hi girls, nice tree-house!" Carrie said, observing the inside of the the tree-house.

"Thanks Carrie." Apple Bloom nodded. "It took some time, but we finally got a better and new tree-house. No offense, sis." Apple Bloom quickly apologized to her.

"None taken, but I'll be, Cutie-Mark Crusaders..." Applejack said as she placed her hooves on the window sill and poked her head inside. "You've done one fine job with this place. So, what's next?"

"Well...now that we have a real life clubhouse..."

"And a map of Ponyville." Scootaloo added as she presented the map of the entire town at us.

"And a Cutie Mark Crusaders theme song." Sweetie Belle announced happily.

"Theme song?" I asked. "What kind of theme song we talking about?"

"We're gonna go out in the world and discover our talents." Apple Bloom exclaimed.

"A new adventure!" Scootaloo added.

"And earn our cutie marks!" Sweetie Belle stated.

"We'll leave no stone unturned!"

"No mountain unclimbed!"

"No meal uncooked!"

"No song unlearned!"

"Well okay then!" Applejack cut them off, making a nervous grin. "Sounds like you have a plan. I gotta, uh...Leave no apple unpicked! See you all later!" And with that, Applejack ran off in a hurry. Is it about her chore or not want to partake in this.

"Cool! Well we'll help you in it!" Kodi commented, with Carrie nodding in agreement.

"Yeah, I think what you girls are doing is great." Mason said, softly smiling at them. "I'm sure you'll get your Cutie-Marks real soon."

"Thanks, Mason!" The crusaders exclaimed in unison, which Mason nodded.

"Hey big brother..." Carrie replied. "Why not teach them Ken-do? Maybe they'll be good at that?"

"Sorry sis, but it takes years of practice. I'm not sure if you guys will handle the training either." Mason said, much to the Crusaders, Carrie, and Kodi disappointment.

"But you were able to handle it the moment you started your training?" Carrie stated.

"That's because I was a prodigy, but I know somewhere you all will find your special talents."

"He's right." I agreed with Mason. "It'll take some time but we know you all can do it. In fact, we'll help out as well!" I said, grabbing Mason for a hug.

"We are?" Mason asked in surprise.

"Alright!" The fillies, Carrie, and Kodi exclaimed in unison.

"Well...Okay, I guess, let's do it." Mason shrugged. "Besides, you need a responsible person around."

"Hey, I'm responsible!" I pouted in anger.

"Really? How old are you?"

"Umm...fifteen?" Where is this going?

"Well I'm seventeen, and two years older than you. Besides, no offense, but you act like a little kid, so you clearly aren't responsible enough." Mason crossed his arms and gave me a stern look.

"Well....he isn't lying." Kodi said, smiling sheepishly at me.

"Well even so, we can get to know each other more, I guess." I said, smiling happily at him.

"Yeah..." Mason replied, glancing away from me. This guy doesn't real like spending that much time with people, does he?

"Okay!" Scootaloo shouted out. "Are you all ready to find our Cutie-Marks, ponies?"

"Yeah!" Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Carrie exclaimed in unison, giving each other a hi-five, or hi-hoof, or...whatever.

"Well, since humans and talking dogs can't get Cutie-Marks, we're still in!" I said, raising my fist in the air.

"Yeah!" Kodi nodded in excitement.

"Whatever..." Mason muttered. Alright Ren, there's just a bunch of fillies, a little human girl, a talking dog, and you got a 17 year old human by your side. How hard can it be?





Soon, we got to work to help our little Crusaders find their Cutie-Marks. We first decided to try out farm work here in Sweet Apple Acres. We were carrying buckets filled with grub that I can't even describe what it even is. As we walked into the farm, both Scootaloo and Carrie poured it into the bowls for the pigs. Kodi and Sweetie Belle rang the bell while me and Apple Bloom opened the doors for the pigs. Soon, the pigs came out of their pens and...

"Oh god no!" They ran over us and began gobbling every bit of their food. Mason went over to checked to see if we were alright.

"Are you okay?" He asked worriedly.

"Y-yeah, I think so." Carrie said as she felt something licking her and turned to see a pig licking some mud out of her arm, not that she mind as she chuckled in delight.

"Ren? Are you okay?" Kodi asked, licking my face. I got up and saw how dirty I was and how messy Kodi was as well.

"Yeah...I think I can manage." I said, dusting myself off. The Crusaders got back up and went to check their flanks, but it turns out, nothing appeared.

"Oooh..." They muttered in disappointment.

"Okay...So it looks farming isn't your thing...at all." Man, and they did a good, yet messy job at getting their Cutie-Marks, and they didn't get it. Oh well, let's try something else.





Next up we headed to Sugarcube Corner and asked Pinkie if we could help out make some more sweets and candy for the store, which she happily accepted that easily. Even Mason was confused about the weird stuff she did like appearing out of nowhere and her Pinkie Sense. I think Pinkie is gonna Mason out of his insanity one day...just like me.

As Carrie and Kodiak were storing the candy into the candy maker machine or so did Pinkie called it, Apple Bloom started it up and it started making some sticky candy. Unfortunately, Scootaloo's tail got wrapped up in the machine, and tried to escape. Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and I tried to save her, but ended getting suck as well.

"Shut it off! SHUT IT OFF!" I exclaimed, which Mason turning the machine off quickly. We headed out of Sugarcube Corner, all stuck by the candy substance. Well, more like they're stuck to me. Scootaloo on my knee, Apple Bloom on my arm, and Sweetie Belle on top of my hair. Still, they checked their flanks and still ended up with the same results.

"Dang it..." They muttered in disappointment.

"Ugh...Carrie, Kodi, you watch out for them, I'm gonna go grab the scissors and maybe some help." Mason said, heading back inside Sugarcube Corner. Well, another fail. Let's just go find someplace more easier for them.





We next headed up to Carousel Boutique and tried to attract some customers. Me, Kodi, Mason and Apple Bloom were successfully in getting some customers as we were ringing some bells to attract them.

"Come on in ladies!" I exclaimed. "You can get your manes dye today for free!" Why you ask? Well, we're not doing this for money. I'm just trying to help the fillies try to earn their cutie-marks. Luckily, one of them entered the shop to get their mane dye.

"Huh, that was easier than I thought." Kodi replied with a grin on his face as he put the bell he was holding in his mouth down.

"I guess so, well...if my sister and her friends can successfully dye someone's hair." Mason said before realizing what he just meant. "Oh...crap." Suddenly, we heard a scream and turned to see the mare that just entered had an afro and started crying and ran away. Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Carrie came out with confuse expressions.

"Did we do something wrong with her mane?" Carrie asked.

"Umm...I'm not even gonna answer that sis, sorry." Mason said, giving off a blank expression the mare that just ran off. The Crusaders look at their flanks and saw no Cutie-Mark on it...again.

"Ahh..." They sighed.

"Well, let's try someplace else."





We headed straight back to Sweet Apple Acres and tried to do a mind game. Carrie was to pick a card and Apple Bloom was to guess it what she picked. I'm guessing this is something like psychic or fortune-telling, but I've only seen those in manga and/or Television. Carrie selected a red heart card as Apple Bloom began thinking what it was. She then made a grin and selected what it was, but it turned out, she chose the yellow circle, causing us to frown a little and shook our heads.

Carrie chose another card, which was a lucky four-leaf clover and Apple Bloom selected blue triangle, which we once again shook our heads.

Carrie did it again, and it appeared to be a yellow circle. We waited for Apple Bloom to select an answer, but she pushed all the buttons, causing all the cards from the machine to explode in front of our faces.

"Okay...seems like fortune-telling isn't your thing." I shrugged sheepishly while Mason glared at me.

"Gee, you think?" He asked in a sarcastic way. Hey, don't look at me like that, we tried.





Next, we tried to climb up a mountain, which was the shortest one I've ever seen, but it was good since they are kids after all. Mason prevented Carrie from going up, much to her disappointment. I decided to go up with the Crusaders and Kodiak. But as soon as we reached for the top, a powerful gust of wind blew us away from it, causing us to fall back down to the ground.

"OOF!" I exclaimed as I fell down, and Kodiak and the Crusaders landed on top of my back. "Gaaah!"

"Sorry..." Kodi smiled sheepishly at me.

"It's okay.." I muttered as I felt the pain. God, that's gonna leave a mark. The Crusaders look at their flanks and still no Cutie-Mark. Seriously, how did ponies like Twilight, Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie received their Cutie-Marks? Oh well, let's try someplace else.





Next, we went scuba diving, we went Scuba diving, which was a surprise to me, Mason, and Carrie because we didn't even know ponies here in Equestria could possibly have or do that in the first place. Mason once again didn't allow Carrie go scuba diving because of her own protection. I even told Kodiak to stay up top of the surface since we didn't have a dog-size scuba gear for him, much to his disappointment. Luckily, there was a scuba gear for my size, what are the odds of that?

As soon as the crusaders got their scuba gear on, we headed down to the surface of a nearby lake that we found outside of town. As we kept exploring the place, we encountered something that we probably should've regretted and listened to Mason's warning.

"GAAAAHHH!" I screamed as we began swimming away from some big squid. Luckily, I brought my Hacking Gun and shot Paralyze at it, giving us more time to escape. We finally got back to the surface and tried to catch our breath.

"Are you okay Ren? It almost look like you saw a monster down there." Kodi said, raising a brow.

"You just...don't know what we saw Kodiak." I said, lying on the ground with the crusaders.

"Yep...I told you so." Mason said, shaking his head.

"Shut up....Mason.." Well, this day sucked.





Okay, so for our next and final destination, we headed to Twilight's Library and asked Spike if we could restock some of the books for Twilight while she was out. It was going alright until Kodi came in, carrying three books on his head and it was starting to get heavy for him.

"Are you sure you can handle that many books, Kodi?" I asked in concern.

"Don't worry Ren, there's no way I'll-w-w-whoa!" Kodi accidentally tripped on Apple Bloom's tail, causing him to fall down and dropping the books. One of the fallen books hit the ladder I was on since I was trying to reach up and restock on the top row. The ladder fell over, with me in it.

"W-Whoa! GAAAAH!" I fell down, but luckily, I grabbed a part of the shelf, much to my relief. Suddenly, I heard a sound and sweat-dropped to see the shelf breaking apart due to my weight. "Oh no..." Why me? The shelf broke, causing me to fall down and thousands of books fell down on top of me.

"Ren! Are you okay?!" I overheard Kodi asked, digging through the books to find me. I got out of the books with a dizzy expression on my face.

"Don't worry...I'm okay..." I muttered as I shook my head, feeling a little bit better.

"Well, I guess I was right, you really aren't responsible, no offense." Mason said, letting out a sigh.

"Hey!" I exclaimed. So what if I'm childish, is that what I am. I mean, I have been home-schooled and spend a lot of time with my family. What you expect? Suddenly, the door opened, revealing Twilight and some pink earth pony with three smiling flowers as a Cutie-Mark. Wonder what that mean?

"What the heck?!" Twilight exclaimed in shock, seeing the messy pile of books on the floor, even us.

"I didn't do anything!" Spike exclaimed, raising his hands in surrender.

"What is going on here?" Twilight demanded.

"Well..." Apple Bloom glanced away with a nervous smile on her face. "Looks like we aren't gonna our cutie-marks for being librarians."  Poor excuse Apple Bloom...

"Yeah, you do have a point." Carrie replied, which made Twilight gave off an irritated glare. "What?"

"Girls, I think you're going about this the wrong way. Instead of trying to do things in areas you're not familiar with, why not try doing things in areas that you already like?"

"And I have the perfect place to start!" The pink earth pony stated as she took something out of her bag. It was a poster for a talent show as she handed it to the girls.

"Showcase your talents..." Apple Bloom began to to read the poster out loud.

"For all to see..." Scootaloo spoke up, reading it as well.

"Perform in the Ponyville school talent show!" Sweetie Belle finished.

"There'll be all sorts of awards. Best dramatic performance, best comed act, best magic act...Surely, you can find your talent!" The pink earth pony encouraged.

"This would be the perfect place to discover our talents." Apple Bloom exclaimed as the three were fascinated over the idea of it. "Juggling!"

"Acting!" Scootaloo added.

"Magic tricks!" Sweetie Belle joined in.

"Square dancing!" Carrie also added.

"Tightrope walking!" Kodi suggested.

"Tiger taming!" They all exclaimed in unison.

"My little ponies!" Twilight interrupted. "You're missing the point. Think about the things you already enjoy doing. Think about what you're already good at."

"Sure! We can do that." Scootaloo responded with a grin.

"Yeah! Sure we can!" Sweetie Belle nodded.

"Well, whatever we do, we'll do it as...The Cutie Mark Crusaders!" The three exclaimed in unison and left.

"Well, I can understand why they would get excited." I muttered. "Besides, I know they'll great in the Talent show." I pumped my fist in determination.

"Yeah, you have a point for once." Mason said, letting out a sigh.

"Oh, so you know those three?" The pink earth pony asked curiously.

"Of course, I've met back at Diamond Tiara's Cutie mark party." I replied with a smile. "Oh, and you are?"

"Oh, I'm Miss Cheerilee, I'm the Crusaders' teacher." Teacher? Oh, that's what her Cutie-Mark meant. She's a teacher.

"Oh, it's nice to meet you." I said happily.

"Greetings ma'am, my name is Mason Hunter." Mason bowed to her.

"Hello, nice to meet you Ms. Cheerilee." Carrie greeted her.

"Oh, so you're the humans that I've heard about." Ms. Cheerilee smiled happily to see us. "It is nice to meet new beings to Equestria."

"Thanks." We said in unison.

"So wait, you're a teacher?" Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion.

"Why yes little doggy." Ms. Cheeriee replied as she started scratching his ear, much to his joy.

"So do you think those three will do greatly in the Talent show?" Mason asked.

"I just hope, but then again, the Talent show is just for fun, that's all." Well, she does have a point.

"Alright, is it okay for me to compete in it?" Carrie asked politely.

"Well...I guess we could bend the rules a little." Ms. Cheerilee nodded. "Alright, I see why not.

"Yay!" Carrie jumped for joy and hugged her brother. "Well I gotta go meet up with the crusaders, see ya!" Carrie ran out of the door, leaving us in bewilderment.

"Well...that was quick." Kodi said, surprised to see go out of the door quickly.

"Yeah...Hey Mason, you okay with your sister competing in the Talent show?" I asked in concern.

"Yeah, as long nothing goes wrong." Mason stated. Yeah, I guess you got a point, but why do I keep thinking that something will go wrong.

"So..." Twilight spoke up from the conversation. "About the talent show...I could organize the events for you, Ms. Cheerilee."

"Oh, that would be great! It would certainly help." Ms. Cheerilee replied happily.

"I can help too..." Mason offered.

"Oh, that's wonderful! Thank you. I appreciate all your help."

"Wait, what about me?" I asked.

"Well, you can go watch over my sister and her friends." Mason said. Oh, well I do want to know what their performance is about.

"Yes, but first..." Twilight pointed to the mess. "You and Kodiak will have to clean up this mess first."

"Dang it.." Me and Kodi muttered, looking at the mess. And this is why I read mangas instead of books.





Later

After fixing up the books and such, me and Kodiak headed towards the girls clubhouse.

"So, what do you think their performance is, Ren?" Kodi asked curiously.

"I don't know, but I imagine their performance will be great." I shrugged with a grin on my face. As soon as we arrived, a roll of fabric rolled downhill and headed straight for us. I stopped below my feet as I picked it up and examine it.

"What the heck?" I muttered. Where the heck did this thing come from?

"Hey Ren! Hey Kodi!" We looked up to see Sweetie Belle and Carrue running down towards us.

"Oh hey Sweetie Belle, Carrie, does this belong to you two?" I asked.

"Yeah, thanks for finding it." Sweetie thanked.

"Are you girls practicing for the talent show or something?" Kodi asked.

"Yeah, and you two arrived for the perfect timing! Come on!" Carrie said as she and Sweetie Belle led us towards us the clubhouse. I only looked through the window while Kodiak entered since he's the same height just about them anyway.  I noticed Scootaloo playing a piano, probably to do a recital or making lyrics for the talent show. Sweetie Belle went back on gathering different pieces of a variety choice of fabric and began sewing a costume. Carrie was also there helping her out with it as well.

"Be careful girls, don't hurt yourself." I warned them.

"Don't worry, Ren! We'll be fine!" Carrie assured as she and Sweetie Belle carefully kept their hands and hooves maneuvering the cloth underneath the sewing machine. When they were finished, she held up the costume and counted the amount of legs attached to it.

"One, two, three, four....five?!" Sweetie exclaimed, as she and Carrei let out groans and sighed. Soon, Apple Bloom came over, walking in a disoriented matter and fell backwards.

"Whoa, Apple Bloom, you okay?" I asked in woried.

"Y-yeah, I think so." Apple Bloom replied as I helped her get back up. "Hey, wait a minute, Ren and Kodi? What are you two doing here?"

"Well Mason asked us to watch over his sister and you girls just in case nothing goes wrong." Kodi responded.

"Oh, well that's nice of you!" She nodded happily.

"How's the spin coming along?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"I think I gotta just stick to punches and kicks." Apple Bloom replied before noticing Sweetie Belle and Carrie's work. "You know, ponies only have four legs while humans have two, or so my sister told me."

Sweetie Belle moaned as Carrie said "Well, I guess we can skip on being fashion designers like your sister."

"Hey, it's no big deal. Why don't you use the dress form?" I suggested, noticing one nearby. "It'll help you with your patterns and help you put all the pieces in the right places."

"Oh, is that what that's for?" Sweetie asked.

"Yeah, and also..." I also noticed the messy painting, causing me to sweat-dropped. "You...should probably also clean your paintbrush between each color."

"Oh, I was wondering why all the colors looked like mud..." Carrie commented, noticing the messy color as well.

"You weren't using power tools, are you?" Apple Bloom asked, raising a brow at them.

"Uh...." Carrie and Sweetie Belle glanced away at that.

"Wait, what exactly are you all doing for the talent show?" Kodi asked, which was exactly what I was thinking.

"Well...Scootaloos is writing the lyrics for a song, as well as being the main singer. Sweetie Belle and Carrie iare designing the clothes and doing the decorations. Me? I'm doing the coordination for the dances!" Apple Bloom explained, making a grin on her face.

"No offense, that's seem a bit...crazy..." I replied, a little confused before letting out a smile. “But don’t you think you girls should be doing what you do best?“

“What do you mean, Ren?” Carrie asked, not following what I said.

“Well, what I’m saying is that you should be doing what you girls are good at. Like when Sweetie Belle sang so loud, but good back at that slumber party. No offense, Sweetie.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment.” Sweetie nodded while smiling happily.

“So you should all be doing something that you’re good at!” I said, smiling softly at her.

“Huh…I guess we coudl try.” Apple Bloom nodded. “Alright, let’s do it!”

“But I can’t sing in front of tons of ponies!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed.

“And Scootaloo would rather sing a rock ballad.” Carrie added.

“Well…” I scratch my head. Oh boy, this is a problem. “Well I guess you can do what you do, I won’t stop it. But me, Kodiak, and the others will be cheering you girls!”

“Thanks Ren!” They exclaimed in unison, before hugging me tight, well more like hugging my face since I was watching everything through the window.

“So anyway, me and Kodiak are gonna head over to the show, you sure you girls don’t need any help?”

“Nah, I think we got it!” Carrie said in determination. “Watch!” Soon, they started to dance, but five seconds later, they struggled with their dance moves.

“Oh! Sorry, Scootaloo!” Apple Bloom apologized.

“That’s okay. Ugh!”

“Oops! Sorry, Carrie. Ouch!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed.

“Oh, my bad, Sweetie Belle. Let’s sing the chorus again!” Carrie advised.

Me and Kodi just watched with dumbfounded expressions and sweat-dropped. “Well then…I wish you girls good luck on the talent show.”

“Okay, thanks!” Apple Bloom as I got my head out of the window, which the girls and Kodi soon walked out of the tree-house by door.

“I think that sounded pretty good.” Carrie said, smiling softly.

“Me too. You think we’re ready?” Sweetie Belle asked, feeling quite nervous about the competition.

“Ready as we’ll ever be!” Scootaloo responded with a determined smile. As soon as they walked, we saw Applejack, who had a shock expression. No wait, please don’t tell me…

“Hey sis! Did you see us practicing?” Apple Bloom asked her big sister.

“Uh…Yeah.” Applejack nodded, feeling uneasy.

“Well? How’d we do? How’d we do?”

“Uh….” Yep, I thought so.

“Ha! She’s speechless!” Scootaloo exclaimed, noticing the expression on Applejack’s face. “See, girls? I told you that’s what we’re gonna do. We’re gonna leave them speechless.”

“YAY!” They all cheered, clapping their hooves off.

“Speechless is right..” Applejack muttered. Me and Kodi walked over to her as she noticed me. “Looks like you’re thinking what I’m thinking, eh?” She whispered to me.

“Yeah, but don’t worry, have faith in them.” I whispered back to her.

“I guess..but I just don’t want my sis and friends get humiliated in front of the crowd.”

“Just have faith in them Applejack, like I said, they’ll do fine.”  I hope that is…

“Come on everyone, let’s go to the Talent show!” Carrie exclaimed as the others agreed.

“So do you think they’ll do great, Ren?” Kodi asked in cocnern.

“I hope…” I muttered. Because if they get humiliated in front of the crowd, even Carrie’s sister, I think Mason might be me up or whatever.




Later

And so, the sun started to go down, or more like Princess Celestia is using her magic to lower the sun while her sister, Luna, brings up the moon. You know, I wonder if I’ll meet up with her in the Grand Galloping Gala. I would love talking to her and see how she’s doing. Anyway, we were at the Talent show as me and Mason were watching from the backstage with Fluttershy, Kodi and Spike. Spike met up with Mason during his help with the stage and the library, and he’s been asking non-stop questions, much to his annoyance.

“…And on the count of three, this rabbit will disappear and something tasty will reappear in its place.” Oh hey, its Snip and Snails. Haven’t seen those kids since the Ursa Minor incident. I’m guessing this magic act of theirs was inspired of Trixie, huh? Well, there’s a big difference between these two fillies and Trixie, that they aren’t as boastful than hers. “A one, a two and a three!” As soon as he waved his magic wand, a poof of dust appeared, but on that table, instead of a rabbit, it was a bunch of carrots.

“Hey! Where are they? Snails, where are the…” Snips noticed the carrots, much to his anger. “Carrtots. SNAILS!” Well, carrots are good to eat and are healthy.

“Uh…how about a round of applause for the S&S magic act?” We heard Ms. Cheerilee’s voice, along with a stomping of hooves on the ground. “Now, for our next act…We have Sunny Days and Peachy Pie reciting their favorite poem…on roller-skates!”

“Wait…What?” Mason asked, raising a brow as a couple of fillies passed by us, on roller-skates. Well, this should be interesting.

“Break a leg!” Carrie exclaimed, who was standing on top of a wooden box with Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle.

“Carrie! What a mean thing to say!” Kodi exclaimed in shock.

“Actually Kodiak, that’s kinda not what she meant.” I said with a nervous grin.

“I don’t get it.” Kodi said, confused on what it really means then.

“Oh, you see, in the theater, it’s considered bad luck to say ‘good luck’. So you said ‘break a leg’ instead.” Sweetie Belle explained, furthering more Kodi’s confusion.

“My little ponies!” Twilight called out, walking towards them. “How are you doing?”

“Nervous…” They all answered. Stage fright already? Well that’s was fast, not that I’m being rude and all.

“Don’t worry, you’re gonna be amazing!” Twilight encouraged. “Remember, just stick at what you know best. I can’t wait to hear you sing, Sweetie Belle.”

“Why does everypony always think I’m gonna sing?” Sweetie Belle asked, getting annoyed on that subject.

“Actually Twilight, Scootaloo is the main singer tonight.” I answered, surprising Twilight.

“What?” She asked.

“And Apple Bloom is the main dancer while Sweetie and I are in charge of the costumes, sets and props.” Carrie answered with a smile, surprising her brother as well.

“Um…Are you sure you can handle this sis?” Mason asked in concern.

“Don’t worry big brother, we’ll do alright!” Carrie nodded.

“Cutie Mark Crusaders, you’re on next.” Ms. Cheerilee announced. “Break a leg.”

“Break a leg-” Twilight was cut off as Apple Bloom accidentally tripped while running towards the stage. “Uh…good luck!” She smiled nervously as the four threw their hooded capes backstage as they began their performance.

“Do you think they’ll do alright?” Fluttershy asked me.

“Yeah, I know they’ll do great.” I nodded happily and watched over their performance. Soon, music began playing and the lights dimmed on the stage. The stage curtain opened to a dark set until Scootaloo’s face was lit as she started singing.


(Scootaloo): 
Look, here are three little ponies



The faces of Sweetie Belle, Carrie and Apple Bloom were lit, wearing their costumes.



Ready to sing for this crowd Listen up cause here’s our story I’m gonna sing it…



(Carrie, Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom): 
VERY LOUD!



Me, Mason, Twilight, Spike and Fluttershy stood there in shock and silence. I can imagine how Mason, Applejack, and Rarity are feeling right now.



(Apple Bloom): 
When you’re a younger pony…



Apple Bloom began dancing and…well, let’s just say, my sister could dance better.



(Sweetie Belle): 
And your flank is very bare…



Sweetie Belle began pulling a rope which revealed a wooden sun, which its planks of wood were cut unevenly and all the nails were all messed up. Maybe they should’ve asked me since I’m good at Art and such.



(Carrie and the Crusaders): 
Feels like the sun will never come When your Cutie-Mark’s not there So the four of us will fight the fight! Apple Bloom began making terrible karate moves.



(Carrie): 
There is nothing that we fear We’ll have to figure out what we’ll do next…



Carrie released a rope which lowered fake, but badly painted bats, spiders, and ghosts.



(Carrie and the Crusaders): 
Till our Cutie-Marks are here! We are the Cutie-Mark Crusaders! On a quest to find out who we are And we will never stop the journey…



Scootaloo fell off a piece of the scenery, causing it to drop down from the stage.



Not until we have our cutie marks! Sweetie Belle activated a fog machine, causing the stage to be engulfed in a fog. They began jumping around, even bumping into each other again and releasing grunts.



They all say that you’ll get your mark…



(Sweetie Belle): 
When the time is really right…



Sweetie Belle ran across with a clock in her mouth but tripped over Scootaloo.



And you know just what you’re supposed to do…



Soon, the spotlight was accidentally set on Apple Bloom, who released another kick, but getting her leg stuck on one of the cardboard tree.



(Carrie): 
And your talent comes to light But it’s not as easy as it sounds And that’s waiting’s hard to do So we test our talents everywhere…



Sweetie Belle ran upwards on to the top of the stage to place a blue filter on one of the spotlights. 



(Scootaloo): 
Until our face is blue!



Scootaloo positioned her face on to the blue spotlight.



(Carrie and the Crusaders): 
We are the Cutie-Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are! And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our Cutie-Marks!



Apple Bloom finally released her trapped leg from the cardboard tree, only to cause the other cardboard drawings to fall. Carrie noticed this and ran on top of a platform to prevent it, even as Sweetie began singing.



(Sweetie Belle):
And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our Cutie-Marks!


As soon as the song was finished, everything on stage tumbled and crashed upon the girls, creating a very destructive noise. They poked their heads out, smiling towards the audience, but they only received an awkward silence.

“Maybe…they’ll clap and cheer for them?” Kodi said sheepishly. Unfortunately, the crowd started laughing at them, causing Carrie and the Crusaders to widened their eyes in shock and began walking back to the backstage with their heads held low in shame.

“Wow, that did not go as well as I expected.” Scootaloo commented as she walked passed us.

“I can’t believed they’re laughing at us!” Apple Bloom added, feeling embarrassed.

“Was it that bad?” Carrie asked, feeling depressed that she’s being laughed by the crowd. Mason felt bad as he walked over and hugged his little sister.

“Don’t worry Carrie, I don’t care what those ponies say, you and your friends performance went well, and I know you were awesome.” “T-thanks big brother…” Carrie said, feeling a little better.

“But even so, we’re just gonna get laughed by the audience.” Sweetie Belle reminded them.

“Now ladies and gentle-ponies, it’s time for the Awards Ceremony!” Ms. Cheerilee called out.

“Don’t worry, you girls will do great.” I assured. “Just believe in yourself.”

“Okay…” They all sighed and started making their way towards the stage.

“I just hope they get an award for their efforts..” I muttered sadly, which Mason, Fluttershy, and Twilight nodding in agreement.

“Let’s hear it for all of our talented fillies and colts.” Ms. Cheerilee addressed as the crowed started stomping their hooves in suspense and excitement.

“Okay, I understand that they’re ponies, but the way how they clap is…weird.” Mason stated.

“Huh, so I guess I wasn’t the only one who thought of that.” I agreed with him. Must be hard for them to clap with hooves instead of hands, but I won’t judge them.

“Our first award goes to…Snips and Snails, for best magic act!” Ms. Cheerilee announced as Spike placed the awards on both of their necks. I also noticed the girls were hiding behind some of the participants in fear. I can hardly blame them since they got laughed at, even Mason felt bad for his poor little sister.

Anyway, as soon as Snips and Snails received their awards, Snips let out a chuckle and said “Hey! Mine’s at least shinier.”

“Well, mine’s bigger!” Snails argued.

“Oh yeah, well…mine is, um…heavier?” Really? That’s the best comeback you could possibly think of? Even I could come up with something better than that. I noticed the deadpanned expressions on both Spike and Ms. Cheerilee’s faces, not amused with their constant fighting.

“Anyway, the next award goes to…” Ms. Cheerilee announced as she turned to the two other participants. “Sunny Daze and Peachy Pie for best dramatic performance.” Spike walked over to them and presented their medals to them. “And finally, the last award of the night goes to…” Soon, drum rolls began and I crossed my fingers while Mason began biting his scarf in worried. Suddenly, the unexpected happen. “The Cutie Mark Crusaders!”

“Wait…what?” Kodi asked in shock, even Carrie and the Crusaders were shocked and surprised about hearing that.

“What?” Mason asked as well.

“What?” Carrie and the Crusaders even asked that.

“For best comedy act.” Ms. Cheerilee announced as the crowed started to cheer for them. Spike presented them with awards as they bowed in front of the audience.

“Well…I kinda wasn’t expecting them to win best comedy, but at least they gotten themselves an award, even your own sister got one, Mason.” I nudged him with a smile on my face. Mason smiled softly towards his sister.

“Yeah…you’re right about that.” Mason muttered, smiling to himself.

“Alright!” The Crusaders and Carrie yelled excitedly as they ran back to us in the backstage.

“Can you believe it? We won!” Apple Bloom exclaimed.

“I knew our act was awesome!” Scootaloo stated.

“You know what would be the best?” Carrie asked.“ If we won, and you girls got your Cutie-Marks.”

The Crusaders widened their eyes in realizing that as they got their costumes off in hopes of finding Cutie-Marks on their flanks, but groaned in disappointment when they found out that they didn’t get them.

“Congratulations, ponies!” Twilight said, as we walked over to them. “A job well done.”

“Thanks, Twilight..” The four girls responded sadly.

“Hey, you don’t sound too excited.” I said, raising a brow.

“We worked really hard and won a prize but we still don’t have our Cutie-marks.” Scootaloo replied as she and the girls sighed sadly.

“Which is the prize we really wanted.” Sweetie Belle added.

“Oh, girls…” I muttered, feeling bad for them. Well, that was the point for them entering the talent show in the first place.

“But we think we know why.” Apple Bloom spoke up.

“Yes, we know why.” Carrie nodded.

“Oh? Tell me because I’d love to make a special report to the Princess.” Twilight asked, getting all excited as she pulled up a letter and a feathered pen using her magic.

“Well, maybe we were trying too hard?” Sweetie guessed.

“Yes? And..”

“And instead of forcing ourselves to do something that’s not meant for us..” Scootaloo continued.

“Yes? Yes?” Twilight kept pursuing.

“We each should be embracing our true talent!” Carrie finished happily.

“And that is?” Mason asked, smirking at his little sis.

“Comedy!” The girls exclaimed in unison, causing us to fall over in disbelief while Twilight twitched her eyes in shock.

“Well, at least they learned their lesson for a short while…” Kodi muttered, smiling sheepishly.

“Yeah, I guess so…” I muttered, getting back up.

“Apple Bloom! You did it!” Applejack exclaimed who was on the empty stage with Rarity and Rainbow Dash. Wait, where did they come from? I don’t remember them being with the crowd at all.

“Did you see our award? Weren’t we funny?” Carrie and the Crusaders asked as they hugged their sisters, and of course, Carrie hugged her brother.

“Yeah, you could say that…” Mason said, hugging his sister back.

“So Ren…do you think that one day they’ll get their Cutie-Marks one day?” Kodi asked, smiling softly at the girls.

“Yeah, it takes a while to find out what they’re good at, just like me when I learned that I was good at Art and at video games…” I said, smiling back at my little dog friend.

“Well, I think they’ll do great and one day, find their Cutie-Marks.” Fluttershy commented, listening in our conversation.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right Flutters.” I said, surprising Fluttershy.

“Flutters?” She asked, confused on that nickname.

“Yeah, I thought it would be a nickname for you, just thought of it.” I said, smiling happily towards her as she blushed lightly and smiled softly towards me.

“Well I think it’s a cute nickname, Ren. Thank you.” She said softly.

“Anytime…Flutters.” I said happily. Strange, whenever I’m with my friends, I’m so happy, but when I’m with Fluttershy, I feel…somewhat different. Wonder why?

“Hey Ren, let’s go home.” Mason called over to me.

“Yeah, I wanna put my new trophy up the shelf back at the home-ship!” Carrie added.

“Oh right…sorry, I’m coming!” I ansered back as I turned back to Flutters. “See ya, Flutters!”

“Bye…Ren!” Fluttershy waved bye to me, and so did Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow, Rarity, and the Crusaders. As we began walking back home, I noticed Mason smirked at me.

“What?” I asked in confusion.

“Nothing, it just that I never knew that you and Fluttershy were that close.” He said, furthering my confusion.

“What do you mean?”

“Yeah, I kinda don’t understand as well.” Kodi added, not understanding what Mason meant.

“Never mind…” Mason said, shaking his head. Me and Kodi just looked at each other in confusion on what he meant. Me and Fluttershy are so close? What is he implying? Oh well, better not dwell on that. I should go home and play some late-night video games, just to help make me tired.

To Be Continued 
> Chapter 19 - A Dog, Human, And A Pony Show!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"You know Ren, I still don't understand why you play video games in the morning."

"Because Mason, it's a hobby of mine. I even do this before I get ready for school."

"Really? Do your parents know that, Ren?" I paused at the question Carrie said.

"Umm...No?" I replied sheepishly. Carrie and Kodi giggled at the answer while Mason just shook his head. After we woke up and ate our breakfast, I was busy playing Street Fighter V again, as it's one of my top ten favorite games ever! The others are Mario, Sonic, Pokemon, and such. "But anyway, you must play games, right Mason?"

"Sorry, but I do training everyday, so I don't have the chance to play video games." Mason replied, causing me and Kodiak to gasp in horror.

"What?!" I exclaimed in shock. "But why?!"

"Yeah, I thought all humans like playing video games?" Kodi thought with a raised brow.

"Well, most of them, but not for me." Mason replied, glancing away. I shrugged as soon as I finish the fight with Cammy. Good job girl, we defeated the final boss thanks to your skills Cammy!

"Whoa, you're so good at video games!" Kodi exclaimed in joy.

"Thanks, it's the second most skillful thing I ever do, besides painting and drawing of course."

"So, when do we go outside and go play with our friends?" Carrie asked, wanting to go outside so badly.

"Alright, we can go you guys." I said, saving my game profile and turning the Xbox One off. "Let's go, besides, I just finish anyway."

"Yay!" Kodi and Carrie cheered in unison as I grabbed my Hacking Gun and put on my shoes. As we left the home-ship, we began heading our way to the main square of Ponyville.

"Hey Ren, did you say that art is your second most favorite thing you like to do?" Carrie asked, surprising me a bit.

"Yeah, I love doing that since the second grade, it was like my favorite thing to do, beside playing video games." I replied with a soft smile.

"Really? You must really do well with painting if you love it so much." Mason said, smiling softly at me, causing me to rub my head bashfully and blush a bit.

"Yeah..." I nodded.

"Hey, wait Ren, didn't you say you were planning on trying to get a job as a painter here in Ponyville a while ago?" Kodi reminded me, causing me to widened my eyes.

"Oh crap baskets, I forgot!" I exclaimed in shock. "Thanks for reminding me, Kodiak!"

"You were planning on becoming a painter here?" Carrie asked, confuse on why would I do that.

"Well of course, you guys, I thought earning some money here so that we don't have to worry about buying stuff while we're here.“ I answered as we finally arrived to Ponyville. ”But you know…I guess I should ask Twilight for help to in order to get the job.“

“Well, I hope you’ll do well Ren!” Kodi supported me, causing me to smile back at him.

“Yeah, we know you’ll do awesome, and maybe paint me a picture of me and Mason?” Carrie suggested, causing Mason to blush lightly, but tried to hide it away by covering his mouth with his scarf. I chuckled a bit to hear that Mason would like to see it too, oh well, I won’t mind.

“Sapphire Shores, we love you!” We stopped and looked to see many ponies forming a crowd and cheering for somepony, but I don’t what it is. Soon, a pony came walking out of the crowd, and to be honest, I was surprised to see what she looked like. She walked proudly among the streets like a famous celebrity, and everypony were gazing at her from behind. This pony had so many accesories and clothing that I bet she could rival Lady Gaga with that. She even had a mix of blue and light blue on her mane and tail and even wore a light purple eye shadow and a white top hat above her head.

“Whoa..who’s that?” Carrie asked in surprise.

“To be honest, I have no idea.” I responded with eyes raised upon seeing her. She must be famous if she got everypony’s attention.

“Well just looking at her just makes me dizzy…” Kodi said, his eyes swirling around, as he fell on his butt.

“Hmm…maybe we should see Rarity.” Mason suggested.

“Really? Why’s that?” I asked in confusion.

“Because she left her shop the moment the crowd appeared.” Mason specified. Oh, I guess that makes sense. We walked over to Rarity’s shop, she apparently walked out of it, along with Twilight and Spike.

“Can you believe it?” Rarity asked. “I can’t! She wants to buy my dresses! But the only this is…I need to get more gems!”

“I’ll help you Rarity!” Spike immediately offered, looking disoriented.

“Oh Spike, really? That would be fantastic!” Rarity replied with a gleeful smile.

“Hey girls, what’s up?” I called out to them.

“Oh hey Ren, Kodi, Carrie, and Mason.” Twilight noticed us as she said “We were just introduced by none other than Sapphire Shores!” She and Rarity got  excited, leaving us confuse.

“Sapphire Shores? Who’s that?” Carrie asked curiously.

“If I had to guess, it was that pony we saw that got everyone excited and happy.” Mason deduced.

“Oh, right. So what’s so special about her?” I asked curiously, causing Rarity to gasp in shock.

“You don’t know who she is?!” Rarity exclaimed, grabbing both my cheeks. “She’s the pony of pop!”

“So technically, she’s a singer?” Kodi questioned.

“Oh wow, that’s so cool!” Carrie exclaimed in joy. “I wonder if we’ll meet her again!”

“Well, don’t worry.” Twilight assured. “Because Rarity needs to get a lot more gems to make five more dresses for her.”

“Five dresses for her made from gems?” Kodi asked in concern. “Are you sure you can do that Rarity?”

“Of course, Kodiak!” Rarity scratched his ear, much to his joy. “Besides, Spike is going to help me!”

“I don’t know Rarity, I’m no Gemologist, but Gems are really hard to find.” I said, crossing my arms. “Are you sure you can find them?”

“Of course I do Ren!” Rarity nodded with a smile. “You see, not only do I use my horn for designing dresses, I can also find gems with it! Isn’t it amazing?”

“Wait what?” I asked in shock.

“So wait, you can use your horn to find gems?” Carrie asked with a smile.

“That’s so cool! How do you do that?” Kodi asked.

“Well, I got this from when I was a filly, but it’s a long story.” Rarity chuckled. “But anyway, Spike!”

“Yes, Rarity?” Spike immediately rushed over to Rarity, holding his hands together near his chest. Wow, guess he’s quite energetic to find some gems since…you know, he’s a dragon and they eat gems like Twilight said.

“Get the little red wagon, would you? We’re going on a gem hunt!” Spike nodded and rushed over to get it.

“Say Rarity, are you sure you don’t need any help?” I offered, which Rarity waved off.

“Of course not, Ren darling, I’ll be fine.” Rarity said.

“Are you sure? Because carrying a whole load of gems in a little wagon seems kinda hard.” Kodi added, which Rarity began to realize that.

“Well, when you put it that way…”

“I’m back Rarity!” Spike brought back the red wagon. “Here you go, Ms. Rarity! Anything else you need?”

“Good news Spike! Ren will be accompanying us.” Rarity exclaimed, causing Spike to be a little disappointed and me rubbing my head bashfully.

“Yeah, about that Rarity, I can’t.” I said, surprising her, Spike, and Twilight.

“What? Why not?!” Rarity asked in shock.

“You guys remember when I said I wanted to get a job?” I reminded them, which Twilight nodded.

“Well yes, I think it was back before Mason and Carrie woke up from those chambers and you felt bad that you had to borrow some bits from Princess Celestia. So you decided to look for a job as a painter.” Twilight explained.

“Mm-hmm, I was sorta reminded by Kodiak, now I’m going to find a job.” I said, before smiling nervously. “But problem is, I’m going to need to some help.”

“Well, I can help you.” Twilight offered. “I’m sure you’ll get the job in no time.”

“Thanks Twilight.” I said happily, but I also noticed Spike letting out a sigh of relief. Strange, why is he so joy that I’m not helping out?

“Well I’m coming too, Ren!” Kodi said, jumping up and down. I smiled softly and started to scratch his ear.

“Thanks bud.” I said.

“Well then, I guess it’ll be just me and Spike then.” Rarity sighed, until Mason spoke up.

“I’ll help you.” Mason said, crossing his arms. We were all caught by surprised to hear that.

“R-really?!” Rarity gasped.

“Yes, think of it as a make-up for what I said when we arrived to this world.” Mason said in a serious tone before turning to his sister. “Carrie, you can go play with your friends at the clubhouse.”

“Okay.” Carrie nodded as Mason turned back to Rarity.

“I’ll be able to help you with carrying the gems.” Mason said, which made Rarity smiled happily.

“Oh thank you so much Mason, I’ll never forget your act of chivalry!” Rarity exclaimed, which Spike sighed sadly. Seriously, what’s up with him?

“Well anyway, we wish you good luck, Rarity.” Twilight said, smiling at them. “Be careful out there!”

“Thank you, Twilight. We shall!” Rarity nodded. “Come on then, let’s go search for gems! Spike, bring the red wagon please!”

“You got it Rarity!” Spike said as he grabbed the red wagon and he and Spike by Rarity, following her to wherever she was going to search for the gems.

“I hope big brother will do alright.” Carrie said in worried.

“Don’t worry Carrie, after seeing your brother in action from the slumber party, I’m sure he’ll protect Rarity and Spike from danger.” I assured, much to Carrie’s joy.

“Okay.” Carrie nodded as I turned to Twilight and said “So, how am I going to get a job as a painter?”

“Well, it might take a while, but I’m sure Mayor Mare will gladly let you have the job if you paint her a portrait.” Twilight suggested.

“A portrait of what?” Kodi asked. I rubbed my chin for a while before realizing what I could paint for her.

“I think I got it!” I said, snapping my fingers. “But first…let me take you to the Cutie Mark Crusaders’ clubhouse, like Mason said.”

“Yay!” Carrie exclaimed happily as we headed over to Applejack’s farm. I just hope Mason and the others will do great.




Mason’s POV 

Well, that didn’t take long. We finally arrived into some ruined wasteland that seems that nobody has ever used before. I just loooked to only see a mountain or rocks and a few trees in this area. I feel bad for the animals that used to live here to lose their precious homes.

“Oh my gosh!” I overheard Spike as he began to talk excitedly as soon as Rarity’s horn started to glow, probably in search of the gems. “Sapphire Shores! The Pony of Pop! She is awesome! I mean, she’s gorgeous, talented and-”

“Spike…” I called out to him.

“Yeah, Mason?” Spike asked, confused on what I wanted. I glanced at Rarity, who was staring at Spike as he felt like she was offended.

“Oh, well she’s not even half the pony you are. I mean, you’re ten times more gorgeous and talented and…” Spike tried to find the right words, but Rarity gave him a reassuring smile. “Spike, a lady is never jealous.” Rarity responded.

“Eh, of course not. But were you totally flipping out or what?” Spike reminded her, causing me to raise a brow at her.

“Ladies do not ‘flip out’, Spike. However, I was quite in awe.” Rarity reassured as her horn began glowing again, causing her to search around more areas. Soon, I felt something coming out of my scarf as I found Nate and Maddy waking up from their nap. I smiled softly and started petting them, before Rarity let out a gasp.

“Oh, aha!”

“Did you find some?” Spike aske, hopping off a rock that he was sitting on.

“Yes, Spike! Right here!” Rarity pointed. Spike walked over to the spot and began digging with his hands until he spotted them with his own eyes.

“Ooooo!” Spike stated as he licked his lips and drooled. “You look so delicious…” I guess he has a love towards gems. Hmm, I should probably ask Twilight for some info if I’m going to learn all the creatures here in Equestria. Soon, I noticed Spike dug into a hole, picking out a handful of jewels.

“Alright Nate and Maddy, I gotta help my companions, I’ll play with you later.” I said, which they nodded and went back inside of my scarf. I walked over to them and helped take some gems out of the hole and put them on the wagon. I then noticed Spike was about to shove a jewel into his stomach without nobody noticing, but I stopped him.

“Spike, you can eat that later, focus on the task Rarity gave us and stop fooling around.” I said sternly, which Spike lowered his head.

“Fine…” He walked over and put the gem into the wagon along, with the other other gems that I put in. “Hm…I will miss you, my sweets.” Oh brother…

“Come along, boys.” Rarity said. “We have many jewels to find.”

“At your service, my lady.” Spike bowed to her.

“Yes, Rarity.” I bowed to her as well as we began searching for many jewels. We did much digging and searching around the place, but we managed to find them. Rarity and I had to scold Spike a lot as he was trying to eat the gems himself. Sometimes, that dragon needs to learn obedience and control his instincts.

Once the wagon was full of gems, Spike stood nearby, drooling and licking his lips while I was trying to catch my breath after carrying a loud of gems under the hot sun.

“You’ve been very patient today, Spike. And for that, you’ll get your finest reward.’ Rarity patted Spike on the head before turning to me. ”As for you Mason, I’m sure I’ll find-“

“No thank you.“ I said, wiping off the sweat from my head. ”It’s okay, I don’t need a reward, just helping out for a companion.“ I’m getting hot, guess I should take off my sweater. As soon as I took out my sweater, I was only wearing my gray tank top, which made Rarity blushed a bit to see my muscles. ”What?“

“O-oh nothing, it’s just that I never seen you without your sweater, but you have some nice muscles for a human.” Rarity said, glancing away while blushing. I let out a sigh and put my sweater back on. I noticed Spike glaring at me, and I think I know the reason why. I began pulling the cart and we began heading our way back to Ponyville.

“This is from me to you.” I glanced to see Rarity handing Spike a light blue gem from the wagon to him. Spike licked his lips and was about to eat it, but stopped.

“Is there something wrong, Spike?” Rarity asked in concern.

“No, it’s perfect.” Spike replied as he smiled at Rarity and held the gem close to his chest. Yep, totally called it.

“Oh, okay then.” Rarity nodded as we began heading our way out. While pushing the cart, Spike walked over to me.

“Hey Mason.”

“Yes Spike?”

“I was wondering if you knew any advice about…girls.” I raised a brow at him. Is he asking me for advice on girls?

“Why?”

“Well…” Spike looked over to see Rarity humming to herself before turning back to me. “Promise me that you won’t tell anypony! Especially Rarity!”

“Okay…” I said, letting out a sigh. So great, he’s promising me to keep a secret from anyone, but I’m sure someone with half a brain will know his secret, even Ren. Spike whispered through my ear and said “I have a crush on Rarity.”

“Uh-huh….” I said, with a knowing smirk and rolling eyes.

“Yeah, but I was wondering how to find cute girls, like working out. I mean you worked out judging by those small muscles and I though Big Macintosh had good muscles, but I guess he isn’t the only one here in Ponyville, eh?” Spike nudged me, causing me to blush a bit.

“Sorry Spike, but you got the wrong person to ask advice towards women.” I replied, causing Spike to slump down in disappointment. I then let out a smirk and said “But here’s advice you  must remember: You need to be nice to a woman and show her respect.”

“Okay, you got it Mason. By the way, like Rarity said, you really have nice muscles. You must really work hard.” Spike commented, which I nodded. I just hope Carrie is doing well back at Ponyville. I’m still confused about this situation. Why was I on that spaceship? I swear that if Ren makes an assumption of being kidnapped by aliens, I’m going to-




Suddenly, I saw a vision of myself having a machine on my head, as I seemed to be asleep as I didn’t move a muscle, what was that? What’s going on? It was like it was going so static as if something was preventing me from remembering.




“Ugh!” I said, stopping the cart and putting my hand on my head. What the heck was that?! Was that…a memory?

“Mason, are you alright?” Spike asked as he and Rarity looked at me in worried.

“Y-yeah, I think so.” I said, rubbing my head. Man, that really hurt. That just came out of nowhere. Just…what the heck was that?

“Well, just be careful, you nearly gave me a-Huh?” Suddenly, Rarity stopped herself as her horn started glowing again, leading her to somewhere else. “Oh! What’s this? Another jewel. Oh, strange.” She followed where her horn was leading and stopped in front of a bunch of trees. “It’s in the trees.” She spotted a gold gem up on top of the tree. Wait, something’s off, gems are supposed to be found on the ground, not up on trees. Before I could respond, a strange creature popped out.

“Uh…uh….” Rarity nervously smiled at the creature as she started backing away from it. “Good day, gentle…uh, fellow. I am Rarity and these are my friends, Spike and Mason.” Was that really necessary to give your and our’ names to this creature?

“Ehe…” Spike chuckled nervously. I glared at the creature and walked towards it, grabbing my bamboo stick.

“Alright, who are you and what do you want?” I demanded, narrowing my eyes.

The creature jumped out of the trees and walked towards us. “A diamond dog.” What? The heck’s a diamond dog? “And what we want…is to hunt.”

“Um…we?” Rarity asked, hiding behind of me.

“We hunt for gems, But you are a better hunter. So now we hunt..for you!” Wait what? Before any of us could respond, we started to hear digging noises. It’s coming from behind, but I turned around, two more of those diamond dogs appeared. One of them tried to grab Rarity, but luckily, she ducked in time.

“Hang on Rarity, I’m coming!” I exclaimed, but I was pushed aside by the dog in front of me pushed me aside and chased after Rarity. I growled and began pursuing after them. Spike tried to stop them by digging at their tails with his tail.

“Run, Rarity! Run!” Spike shouted before grabbing onto one of the dog’s legs, causing him to trip and grab the other dog’s tail and make him fall as well. I ran towards them and grab my bamboo stick before jumping up into the air and attempted to attack them. Unfortunately, one of them noticed me and tackled me, sending me off a distance from them. Well, that happened.

I slowly got up to see Rarity about to be pounce by one of the diamond dogs. “Gotcha!” Oh no, you don’t! I narrowed my eyes and ran as fast I could before grabbing my bamboo stick and swatted him away.

“Hey!” Soon, the dog growled angrily at me. Spike tried to help by trying to fight him, but he kicked him away, causing me to grit my teeth. That bastard, kicking an innocent child..I mean dragon child!

“You bastard!” I ran as I tried to attack him with my bamboo stick, but the two dogs grabbed and threw me awy, knocking me into a nearby tree. It’s so hard fighting off three powerful monsters like dogs.

“WAAH!” I opened my eyes to see Rarity being kidnapped by the Diamond Dogs and began heading towards their hole. I began getting back up and tried to go after them, but due to the pain they gave me, I was running as fast as I could. “Unhand me this instant, you ruffians! Stop! Put me down, you scum! You rough-”

“Rarity!” Spike called her. I caught up wit him as soon as Rarity got inside of the hole and struggled to stay out of it. “Ah, dirt!” She exclaimed. I immediately jumped and grabbed her hoof.

“Hang on Rarity!” I yelled as I tried pulling her up, but those three mutts grabbed her and pulled her deeper down. I wasn’t able to grab her hoof back as those mutts finally managed to pull her away from me.

“AAAHHH! SPIKE! MASON!” Rarity screaming as she was sucked in the hole.

“Which, what, where?” Spike muttered as he ran over to the hole.

“SAVE ME…!” Rarity screamed in an echo from a distance beyond the hole. I gritted my teeth and hit the ground with my fist in anger.

“NOOOOOOOOO!” Spike shouted.

“Dang it!” I screamed in anger. I then turned back to him with a serious expression. “Spike, I need you to head back to Ponyville and get the others!”

“W-wait, what about you?” Spike asked hesitantly.

“Just please get them!” I exclaimed, which he immediately nodded and ran off to get them. I dove down the hole and after several seconds, I finally landed on the groaned. I glanced around my surroundings and saw that I was some sort of underground dungeon or something. And great, they’re multiple holes that lead into different parts of the tunnel. Now, how am I going to find her?

“WAAAHH!” Well, that answers our question. I looked around to see the hole in the far right was where Rarity and those mutts are. I immediately followed that scream and I finally arrived, but hid behind the shadows, seeing Rarity backing away from the diamond dogs.

“Oh please, Diamond Dogs. Please let me go.” Rarity shivered in fear those dogs started laughing at her.

“No!” One of them stated.

“You’re our precious little pony!” The big one stated.

“For ever! Muhahahaha!” They began laughing again, while I clenched my fist in anger at them while I’m hiding. Once I get my grubby hands on these bastards, I’m gonna make sure they won’t harm anyone anymore.

“B-but whatever do you want from me?” Rarity asked, confused but still terrified.

“Gemsss!” The small one hissed. Gems? They’re interested in gems?

“Gems?” Rarity asked.

“Yes! The gems, the jewels!” The average one stated.

“Find them! Find them all!” The big one shouted.

“Oh! Is that all?” Rarity asked, tilting his head in confusion. I narrowed my eyes in anger to hear all of this. So you’re telling me is that these idiots just want to use Rarity to find gems with her gem-finding spell? Oh my god, you have got to be kidding me right now.

Rarity used her horn again and did what they asked. Rarity was searching for more jewels in the ground until she stopped, picked up a stick by using her horn’s magic and marked the spot with an X.

“There. A lovely pocket of jewels are there.” Rarity said as she began walking away from them. “Now, you would be so kind as to show me the exit?” Unfortunately, another dog wearing some armor pointed a sharp spear at her, causing me to growl in anger.

“Good!” One of the dogs hopped excitedly as he pointed his finger on the X-mark. “Now, dig them up, pony!”

“What?” Rarity raised a brow. “But you said you wanted me to find the gems.”

“Yes! Find and then dig!” The diamond dog demanded.

“Dig?” Rarity asked, feeling quite irrtitated now.

“Yes…Dig.” They nodded their heads as Rarity let out a moan and began digging it lightly, well actually, she was barely tapping the ground. I growled in anger as soon as I watched this, these dirty little bastards, treating someone like that. I’ll make them pay.

“Oh for goodness sake!” The medium-sized dog face-pawed himself. “Fine! Just stop. Stop! Dig, dogs! Dig!” He called toward the other guard dogs that were in a hole above them. “And fast!”

Well, at least he won’t force Rarity into doing more labor.

“She won’t dig, she pulls!” The big one announced, while they held up a saddle and a cart, causing me to widened their eyes. While the guards are digging the ground, the three stooges walked towards Rarity with the saddle.

“I beg your pardon?” Rarity replied with widened eyes as she began backing away from them. “But what, pray tell, are you doing?”

“Others will dog. You will haul the wagon.” The big one answered.

“Prrrecious pony pedi will be reserved.” The small one added as he placed the the saddle on her once she reached a dead end.

“Well, somebody certainly needs proper nail care. When was the last time you two had a manicure?” Rarity asked, noticing their messed-up fingers. “You’re scratching up my coat with those jagged things.” I made a sweat-drop upon hearing that. Is her looks more important than the situation she’s in? “Please be quiet!” The average on answered.

“Good heavens, what is that smell?” Rarity exclaimed, putting her hoof on his nose.

“Smeeeell?” The average asked as he released a horrid stench of his breath at Rarity. Man, that smells so bad, I could practically smell it from here.

“Ah, mystery solved. It’s your breath.” Rarity replied, waving her hoof away to get the smell away from her.

“Enough! Search, pony!” He ordered angrily.

“Well, since you insist…” Rarity muttered sadly at she began pulling the cart while finding gems and marking them with a stick. “But I must say the working conditions in here are simply dreadful. Musty and damp, it’s going to wreak havoc on my mane. And this air is stifling, suffocating. And when I try to take a deep breath, the stench of all you dogs makes me nauseated.” Is it just me or she just keeps complaining because of their work conditions, because I don’t think that’s the problem here! “And when I try to take a deep breath, the stench of all you dogs makes me nauseated. You look and smell like if you haven’t bathed in weeks. Have you never heard of soap? You could all do with a good round of soap and water. Water, water, I’m terribly thirsty. Could I please have some water?”

Oh my god, how does Ren handle her? She’s annoying as-Huh? The Diamond Dogs were covering their ears from her constant complaining. Are they sensible to hearing or something?

“Good gracious, I can’t take this anymore.” The small dog pulled his ears. “BE QUIET ALREADY, YOU PONY!”

“And that’s another thing.” Rarity persisted. “I would appreciate if you stopped calling me ‘pony’. I am a lady and I wish to be addressed as such. So you may call me ‘Miss’ or ‘Rarity’ or ‘Miss Rarity’.” Are all ponies like that? Always give their names to stranger or kidnappers like them? Because they’re pretty stupid.

“Enough!” The average dog yelled as he pulled his ears. “Your whining! It hurts!”

“Whining? I am not whining. I am complaining. Do you want to hear whining? Thiiis iiis whiining! Oooh, this harness is too tiight! It’s going to chafe. Can’t you loosen it? Oooh, it hurts and its sooo ruuusty! Rairty continued to complain in a high pitched voice, even starting to annoy me. ”Why didn’t you clean it first? It’s gonna leave a staaain! And the wagon’s getting heeeavy, why do I have to pull it?!“

“Ahh! Make it stop!” The little dog ordered, covering his ears.

“Stop whining!” The average one demanded, can’t take it anymore.

“But I thought you wanted whiining!” Rarity purposely answered, which I noticed. Ahhh, now I see where what she was doing. I guess I shouldn’t judge her like that.

“We’ll do anything, pony!” Th average one exclaimed. Rarity glared at them with an annoyed stare. “Oh, uh, we’ll do anything, ‘Miss Rarity’.” He laughed nervously.

“Anything?” Rarity questioned, dreamily. Oh god, she better not be taking this too far. Later, she had the dogs doing the work for her, as well as improving the conditions around her. As much as I wanted to save her, I still can’t save her as they’re too many guards, but yet again…I can still take them on. Anyway, I saw that the area was covered with ribbons as two guard dogs beside her fanned her. She was given water in a gold chalice. Unbelievable…I came to save her and she handles the situation herself. Rarity…you’re one pony I shouldn’t mess with.

Rarity took a sip from the water and pulled back, slightly disgusted. "Oh, this water is hardly sparkling. But I suppose it will have to do."

The three other dogs were pulling the heavy loads of gems until they stopped for some air. "Wait! Why are we doing this?" The average one asked. Oh, so now you noticed, eh?

"To stop the awful noises from the pony's mouth, remember?" The little one began imitating Rarity's whining but the average dog placed his paw on his mouth, trying to make him be quiet and silent. Now, what are these idiots up to, this time?

"Yes, yes, I know. This is ridiculous! Letting a pony order us around. What are we? Mice or dogs?" The average one asked.

“Mice!” They replied, which the average one glared at them, as they realized their answer. “Dogs!” These are gotta be the most dumbest kidnappers I’ve ever encountered.

The average dog stared at them for a moment, and then continued his speech. "Dogs do not pull. Ponies pull. Let her make the awful noises."

They walked up to Rarity and began placing the saddle on her. "What are you doing?" She asked. The average dog flicked her drink. "Hey, you spilled my drink. Oh!" Rarity began her whining. "Not sooo tiiight!"

"Ha! Make the noises all you want. But move while you make them. Hyah, mule!" He ordered Rarity, slapping her from behind.

I could instantly see the shift in Rarity's eyes. "Did you just call me a... mule?" She asked sadly. Alright, that’s it! I stepped out of the shadows and shouted “HEY UGLY!”

The Diamond Dogs looked back at me with widened eyes. “What the?! It’s that weird creature we encountered back at the surface! What are you doing here?!” The average one exclaimed, glaring at me.

“And what are you?!” The big one asked, scratching his head. I narrowed my eyes as I answered “That’s none of your business, you all are going to pay for hurting an innocent pony, so now I think its payback time.”

“Oh really? And how are you gonna stop us?” The small one asked, snarling at me. I smirked and crossed my arms, feeling quite confident at taking them again. Last time, I was just distracted and surprised by their appearance, but after seeing them, it seems that this fight is going to be easy.

“What’s the matter? You scared to take me on?” I asked, causing the Diamond Dogs to glare at me.

“Oh that’s it!” The average one clenched his fist in anger. “Guards!” Soon, many guards appeared from the ceiling and pointed their spears at me. I just smirked at them before grabbing ahold of my bamboo stick. Time to play…

Soon, all the guards came charging at me, which I instantly dodged all of their punches and such. I grabbed my bamboo stick and hit them over and over, on their heads, shoulders, knees, and even their…groins. One of them attempted to tackle me from behind, which I noticed and backed away before giving him a roundhouse.

I smirked as the three mutts that kidnapped Rarity jaw-dropped at what they were witnessing while Rarity smiled in glee. I nodded, but didn’t noticed that something tackled me, causing me to hit the wall, which my shoulder hit real hard.

“GAAAH!” I screamed in pain as I got up slowly and glared to see one of the guards was the one who tackled me, who began chuckling deviously and attempted to punch me. I instantly rolled underneath before karate chopping him on the back, falling unconscious. I grabbed my bamboo stick and held my shoulder in pain. Don’t worry, I’m fine, just a scratch.

After that was taken care of, the three Diamond Dogs backed away in fear while Rarity managed to get the saddle out of her back and ran straight towards me.

“Mason, darling! That was amazing!” Rarity complimented. “Thank you so much for saving me!” I nodded with a smirk before frowning and darkly glaring at the Diamond Dogs, who shivered in fear at my glare.

“Don’t thank me yet, we still have to deal with them first.” I replied, pointing towards the three.

“W-wait!” The big one yelled. “We don’t have to do this! We’ll do anything!”

“Yeah, I-I mean, we’re not scared of you or whatever!” The small one added, causing me grabbed my bamboo stick and gonna kick their butts.

“Who cares?!” The average one said, as he hid behind the big Diamond Dog. “Look, we’ll do anything, just please! Don’t hurt us!”

“Anything, eh?” I asked, interested. They nodded their hoods quickly as me and Rarity looked at each other before smirking at that idea. Anything, eh? Well, this has been intriguing.




Ren’s POV 
“It’s…It’s…so beautiful!” Mayor Mare exclaimed happily. After we took Carrie to the Cutie-Mark Crusaders Clubhouse to go and play with her friends, we headed towards Mayor Mare’s office as me, Twilight, and Kodiak were talking to her about hiring me for the job as Ponyville’s Painter. She told me that if I want the job, I should prove to her how good I am. I made a portrait of herself, which was so perfect in every outline.

“That’s the most beautiful painting I’ve ever seen!” Mayor Mare, taking the portrait. “You’re hired Ren Loodan!” I raised my fist in the air, happy to hear that.

“Good job, Ren!” Kodi exclaimed happily as he jumped on my lap and nuzzle me. I smiled and scratched his ear.

“Congratulations Ren, you did it!” Twilight exclaimed, happy to hear that I got the job.

“Thanks you guys, although…” I rubbed my head bashfully and chuckled nervously. “I was starting to have doubts on myself, but I’m glad I got the job!”

“Yes, you can start next week, in the meantime, you don’t mind…”

“Yes Mayor Mare, you can keep it and it’s on the house!” I said happily, which made Mayor Mare happy.

“Excellent, ta-ta!” And with that, Mayor Mare took the painting and left the office. Soon, we left the Mayor’s office with happy smiles on our faces.

“Wow Ren, you did so wonderful, and I thought you said that you weren’t good at painting” Twilight teased.

“Well, I just have doubts on myself and I don’t show my art skills that often.” I replied, sweat-dropping and rubbing my head bashfully.

“Well whatever, I knew you could do it!” Kodi said happily, which I smiled at him. I’m finally a painter, this is the third greatest thing that ever happened to me. The other two were unlocking all achievements in that Sonic Mania game, and finding a fifty bucks on the ground back from my world. Can my day get any better?

“HEEEEEELLP!” What in the world? We saw Spike, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash. “Rarity! Woods! Jewels! Dogs! Hole! Taken! SAVE HER!”

“What did he say?” Kodi asked.

“He’s saying that Rarity was taken by some gem-finding creeps called the Diamond Dogs!” Applejack explained.

“Diamond dogs?” I asked.

“I’ve heard of that.” Twilight spoke up. “Diamond Dogs are greedy and arrogant beasts that has a distant love towards any type of gem!”

“What?!” I exclaimed. Oh man, this is bad! “Hey wait a minute, where’s Mason?”

“Apparently, Spike told us that Mason went down a hole to go and save her from those mutts!” Rainbow exclaimed, much to my surprise.

“Oh no, we have to save them!” Kodi exclaimed.

“Yeah, come on everyone, let’s go!” I yelled as we began heading our way towards where they headed off. It’s a good thing I dropped Carrie to the clubhouse, I don’t think Mason would appreciate his little sister being brought into this mess.





We finally arrived to the wastelands to see…so many holes. Wow, these Diamond Dogs sure are good at digging.

“Hold moly, that’s a lot of holeys!” Pinkie stated with widened eyes.

“I know, right?!” Kodi agreed.

“Come on, everypony!” Twilight said. “Let’s get started!” She approached the nearest hole and peered down into the darkness and called “Hello…?” Suddenly, two glowing eyes appeared, growling at her, causing her to gasp and get shot with mud in her face.

“Twilight, are you okay?!” I asked in concern.

“Y-yeah, I think so…” Twilight responded, wiping the mud out of her face. Suddenly, the hole Twilight looked down sealed up. Oh crap, there blocking the exit!

Kodi, Fluttershy, and the others peered down in different holes, only to get shot with mud on their faces, and the holes sealing up.

“Quick everyone! Find a hole before its filled in!” I exclaimed.

“Oh my!” Fluttershy exclaimed upon seeing many of the holes being sealed away. Pinkie bounced before and tried to dive head-first into one of them, only to fall into a mound of dirt.

Applejack tried to fight against one of the spraying sod and forced her way in, but got pushed back as the hole filled up with dirt. “Nope! Ain’t no forcing our way in!”

“We’ll see about that!” Rainbow scoffed as she rose up and flew straight down for one of the holes as she tried flapping as fast as she could, but it filled up, making her gasp and pump her wings to slow down, but she didn’t slow down enough as she hit on the soft dirt.

“Now I’m used ticking myself up and dusting myself off.” Applejack shook her head. “But Rarity won’t even touch mud unless it imported!”

“Well…you aren’t wrong.” I shrugged as Twilight began panicking.

“Oh Rarity!’ Twilight shouted in worried.

“We gotta save her!” Kodi exclaimed.

“But they blocked up all the holes!” Rainbow reminded us. I thought for a while until I widened my eyes, thinking of an idea.

“I got it! Let’s dig and tried to find our way underground!” I declared, which everypony nodded in agreement as we began digging. Ha, let’s see those Diamond Dogs try this on for size! Suddenly, we felt a rumble on the ground. Wait, what are they up to-

“Ow!” We turned to see a big Diamond Dog grabbing Pinkie’s tail. Suddenly, another one appeared and pushed Rainbow off of the hole she was digging into. Oh come on!

Then I noticed one of them popping out of the mound between me and Kodiak. “Quck, get them!” I yelled as me and Kodi jumped towards them, but they avoided our attack, causing us to crash into each other.

“Ow!” Kodi said, showing off a hurtful yet dizzy expression.

“Yep, not one of my smartest ideas.” I muttered. Another one appeared, which Applejack noticed him and tried whacking him, but she kept missing him. Eh, this is no time for a game of whack-a-mole! We need to save both Rarity and Mason! Who knows what horror is happening to them right now?! I can just imagine it, and I don’t wanna!

“Alright that’s it!” I exclaimed and I grabbed my Hacking Gun. “I can’t take it anymore! Stand back everypony!” I set it on ‘Break’ and started charging the attack until it was full maximum. “LOODAN LIMIT BREAK!” I fired at the ground, creating a giant hole on the floor. I tried to catch my breath until I noticed everypony’s shock expression.

“What?” I asked.

“…Nothing.” Kodi muttered in surprise until his nose started sniffing something inside the cave before letting out a gasp. “I smell them! Follow me!” Kodi announced as we began heading down the hole. Hang on Rarity, Mason, we’re coming for you!

We follow Kodi down the tunnel as he kept track of Mason and Rarity’s scent while Twilight provided light with her horn, but before long, we stopped to see a chamber full of tunnels.

“Ahh…dang it…”I muttered deadpanned.

“All these tunnels, how are we ever gonna find Rarity?” Twilight asked, worriedly.

“Guess we’re just gonna have to start searching them one by one.” Applejack stated.

“But who knows how long that could take!” Rainbow complained.

“But there has to be a way to find them in time!” I insisted.

“Wait, I know!” Spike spoke up. “I bet they’ve taken Rarity down the tunnel with the most gems!”

“Yeah, that’s a great idea Spike!” I agreed.

“But Spike, Ren, Rarity’s the only one who knows how to find gems, and Mason probably followed them, so we don’t know where he is as well!” Twilight reminded.

“No, Twilight! You can! I mean, you must’ve remembered that gem-finding spell Rarity told you about.” Spike suggested.

“Yes! Rarity showed me how it works a while back!” Twilight replied as she walked up to the mouth of one of the tunnels. “If I can just remember…” As Twilight closed her eyes, her horn began shining, and let out a gasp.

“This way!” Twilight pointed to the far right tunnel.

“Alright!” Kodi jumped for joy.

“Yes, it makes sense Twilight would learn that spell in one day. She is Princess Celestia’s faithful student.” I replied, noticing Twilight’s cheek turning a little pink.

“I-it’s nothing Ren, but anyway, let’s go!” Twilight said as we headed down the tunnel and began heading our way towards where Mason and Rarity are. It was extremely dark, but luckily, I used my Hacking Gun’s ‘Detect’ mode and showed a light in the tunnel, showing a variety of gems. Wow, there’s gotta be a ton of them here. Wonder why these Diamond Dogs want gems so badly? Do they eat them like Spike?

“We’re getting close!” Twilight said. “I can feel it!”

“That’s good to hear.” I nodded in agreement until we started to hear some sobbing and grunting sounds .Wait, I know that sobbing anywhere! “Hey, I can hear Rarity!” I exclaimed in joy.

“It’s just up ahead! Come on!” Spike pointed out. We ran straight towards the next chamber and saw a doorway from where we can hear the crying and all that grunting. Just what is exactly happening in there?

“She must be in there, let’s go!” Kodi said, but suddenly, out of nowehre, a bunch of dogs, wearing armor, jumped onto my friends back, growling while three appeared behind me and Kodiak.

“More workhorses!” One of them snarled as they threw rope bridles onto the girl’s muzzles, which ticked off Applejack.

“Hoh, doggies. If you can take this bull by the horns, you netter be ready for a ride.” Applejack said, narrowing her eyes. “Come on, everypony! Kick them up, kick them out. Buck them up, buck them down!”

“You got it Applejack!” I agreed as I set the dial to ‘Dance’ and shot it at the three Diamond Dogs, causing them to dance into the groove.

“Hey, what’s going on?!” One of the guards asked as he began shaking around. Kodi snarled before biting off one of the guards tail, causing the Diamond Dog  to scream in agony. I then set the dial to ‘Knock-back’ and shot it at one of the Diamond Dogs, which they rolled away after being blasted away from it and hit the other Diamond Dogs with it like a bowling ball.

Soon after, everypony had bucked off the Diamond Dogs Gaurds off of their backs, before they ran away in fear.

“Yeehaw!” Applejack cheered. “Git along, little doggies!”

“Nice pun, Applejack.” Kodi commented. I chuckled a bit at that obvious pun.

Suddenly, we started to hear some more grunting as the doorway shaked, which meant trouble. Oh boy, we gotta go save them!

“I’m coming for ya, milady! Hi-hi, Twilight! Away!” Spike yelled as he picked up a long gem from the ground and wielded it like a sword and held onto Twilight’s reins, which caused her to glare at him. “Come on, Twilight! Just gimme this!” Oh wow, it’s like he’s acting like a knight. I’m quite impressed.

“Ugh..Fine!” Twilight groaned. I sweat-dropped and smiled nervously at her. Don’t feel bad Twilight, it won’t end this long for him. Twilight reared up and charged! They crashed through the door, trotting into the room.

“Lady Rarity!” Spike shouted. “I’m here to save y-” We all stopped to see many Diamond Dogs were all beat up and out like a light.

“What the heck?” I asked in shock.

“What happened here?” Kodi asked.

“Do you think…that rumbling was this?” Fluttershy asked worriedly. Suddenly, we turned to see three more Diamond Dogs coming towards us in fear, which made me point out my hacking Gun at them, but instead of fighting, they kneeled down, making whines and pleads.

“Please, get rid of them!” The smaller one begged.

“What?” I asked, raising a brow.

“He’s so mean and strong!” The average one said.

“She’s so annoying!” The big one added.

“He’s very scary!” The smaller one replied before they bowed down and announced “We’ll give them back to you!”

“…What?” Kodi asked in surprise.

“Excuse us?” Applejack asked. We heard someone whistling as we looked up to see both Mason and Rarity walking behind them, carrying a wagon full of gems. Well, more like Mason pulling it for Rarity.

“Rarity! You’re safe!” Spike jumped off of Twilight and immediately hugged Rarity.

“Why yes, hello everypony!” Rarity greeted, feeling quite happy with herself. “You’re all just in time to assist me.”

“Assist you with what?” Rainbow asked.

“She means these.” Mason smirked, pointing towards several more wagons full of gemstones and jewels. Dang, just what happened down there?

“Whoa…that’s a lot of gems and jewels.” Kodi muttered, amazed to see them gathered this many. Wow, I must’ve miss a lot with Mason hanging out with Rarity.

“So wait, you’re letting them leave with all these..jewels?” Spike asked, confused with what’s happening/

“Yes, take them!” The average one demanded as he and the two other hid behind stalagmite. “And them with them!”

“Well, if I might ask, what happened?” I asked curiously, causing them to be shivered in fear.

“You won’t believe it!” Rarity started to explain. “Apparently, as I was about to be sent into labor by these horrid Diamond Dogs, Mason came and rescue me by defeating most of the guards here, which shocked and scared them due to his skills in Ken-do.” Rarity pointed towards the three, who were shivering in fear.

“It was nothing, besides, nobody deserves to be locked up like that, Rarity.” Mason said, blushing a bit. Me, Kodi, and everypony else jaw-dropped to hear that Mason took down a whole army of Diamond Dogs. He really is skilled with Ken-do if he was able to take down a whole lot of them. I’m actually sorta jealous.

Suddenly, Mason winced in pain as he fell onto his knees.

“Mason, are you okay?” Kodi asked worriedly.

“Y-yeah, I think so.” Mason replied, gritting his teeth. “I was sorta tackled by one of those mutts real hard, that they hurt my shoulder, but I’ll be fine.”

“No, you’re not fine Mason.” I said, helping him up. “Come on, let me take you back home. It’s the least I could do.”

“…Okay.” Mason nodded as everypony began taking the cart of gems as we began finding our way back to the surface.




After that mess was sorta out, we were back to the surface as we were walking back to Ponyville.

“Wowie zowie!” Pinkie exclaimed. “I can’t believe you got all these gems!”

“Heh, I can’t believe you two took care of those dogs.” Rainbow smirked at them.

“Just because I’m a lady doesn’t mean I cannot handle myself in a stick situation.” Rarity replied with a smile. “I had them wrapped around my hoof the entire time…well…not the entire time, actually…”

“What do you mean, Rarity?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well, if Mason hadn’t come and save me and defeated those brutes, I wouldn’t been able to get away with all these gems..” Rarity replied before turning to Mason. “And I want to thank you my friend.”

“A-anytime, Rarity.” Mason smirked as I was still carrying him on my shoulder. God, this guy weighs a ton, I feel like I need to work out again.

“You know, I can’t wait to write to Princess Celestia to report what you and Mason taught me today.” Twilight said happily. Of course she’ll be Twilight.

“Me and Mason, Twilight?” Rarity asked, with a confused look.

“Us?” Mason raised a brow at her. “What do you mean?”

“Just because somepony is lady-like or gentlepony-like don’t make them weak.” Twilight replied with a smile.

“Yeah, in fact, a seemingly defenseless pony and human can be the one who outsmarts and outshines them all.” I added.

“Mmm, outshines is right!” Spike agreed as he began munching on some gems. “Now you have enough gems to complete Sapphire Shores’ costumes!”

“Not if you eat them all, Spike.” Rarity giggled as she took the gem right out his grasp before he could finish it, causing us to laugh at that, even Mason started to chuckled. You know, maybe I miss the whole thing down there, but I’m glad that Mason protected Rarity from harm.




 Later

Soon after, the day started to end as everypony began heading back home and we picked up Carrie from the clubhouse as we began walking back to the home-ship.

“So Ren, did you get the job?” Carrie asked curiously.

“Totally Carrie, Mayor Mare loved the portrait I made for her, and she instantly hired me.” I replied with a smirk on my face.

“Huh, guess you are talented with Art as I thought.” Mason said, smiling softly as he gazed at his shoulder, which was bandaged up from the fight he had with the Diamond Dogs.

“So guys…” Kodi spoke up. “Do you really think that we'll see those Diamond Dogs again?” Kodi asked worriedly.

“Don’t worry Kodiak, if they do.” I brought out my Hacking Gun and said “I’ll be sure to leave them with a big bang.” Everyone started laughing as we were almost there.

“It was pretty fun that you two had fun, I wish I went with you on your adventures.” Carrie pouted, which Mason rubbed her head, causing her to smile a bit.

“Don’t worry Carrie, I’m sure you’ll get your chance.” Mason replied as he looked into the night sky. “Maybe someday…” We all looked at the night sky to see the full moon up. It’s quite beautiful, I always love seeing the moon, always bring me joy and encouragement. You know..for my next painting…I think I could make a portrait of the beautiful night sky…for a special friend of mine that I hope one day that I’ll see again.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 20 - Green Isn't Your Color
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Are you sure you're okay, big brother?"

"Yes, I'm okay Carrie, just relax." Mason replied as he was laying on his bed. We were in his and Carrie's bed as he was forced to be put in the bed after getting his shoulder badly hurt from those Diamond Dogs after he protected Rarity from them. Carrie was extremely worried as she lied down with her big brother on his bed last night to keep him safe. It's nice to see a brother and sister relationship, kinda reminds of my brother and sister.

"Are you sure?" Carrie asked, looking at her brother with suspicious.

"I told I'm fine. Although..." Mason frowned a bit. "I just wish my shoulder wasn't hurt, I need to continue my training."

"You always train." I replied with a concern expression. "I think it’s best if you relax a bit."

"Yeah, why not eat something until your stomach gets full?" Kodi suggested before licking his lips. "That's what I'll do every day."

"Yeah...sure buddy..sure.." I muttered, sweat-dropping. I then realized something, the Ponyville Spa! I hadn't gone there since...ugh, since the Poison Joke incident.

"You okay, Ren? You just shivered ago?" Carrie asked, looking towards me. "It's not even cold in here."

"N-nothing Carrie, I'm fine." I said, smiling nervously. Oh boy, let's just keep the secret because it would feel embarrassing to let them know that I transformed into a girl. Ooh, the memories. "But anyway, I know somewhere you can relax."

"Really? Where?" Mason asked, glancing at me.

"The Ponyville Spa!" I answered, much to their confusion.

"Oh right, I totally forgot about that place." Kodi nodded in agreement.

"I didn't know this place had a spa." Carrie said before smiling happily. "But that sounds like a great idea. Mason, you could use that!"

"I don't know..." Mason replied, using his right hand to rubbed his head bashfully because his left shoulder was broken, so if he stretched his left arm, he would wince in pain. "I rather sit in the meadows and meditate along with the animals here."

"Come on Mason, I know you'll love it." I shrugged with a smile. Mason thought for a while until he let out a sigh and said "Fine, I'll go."

"Good answer."I nodded as Mason turned to Carrie.

"Carrie, would you like to come as well?" Mason asked.

"Yeah, I never been in a spa before so I guess so!" Carrie nodded happily.

"Yeah, me too! Me too!" Kodi jumped for joy, wanting to go to the spa as well.

"Okay okay everyone, calm down." I said, scratching Kodi's ear, making him feel relax. "We'll all go, good thing I have some bits left, come on, let's go." I said as we exited out of Mason and Carrie's room and the home-ship and headed our way towards the Ponyville Spa.

"So Ren, you've been there?" Carrie asked curiously, causing me to flinch. But before I could respond, Kodiak spoke up for me.

"Yeah, back before you guys woke up from that ship, Ren and I headed to the spa because of him-" I quickly grabbed Kodi and covered his mouth as I gave them a nervous smile.

"It's totally nothing! We just headed there to relax and so! Ha ha ha ha...." I laughed nervously, causing Mason and Carrie to look at each in confusion. Phew, that was a close one.

"H-hey!" Kodi wiggled out of my hand and glared at me. I chuckled nervously and sweat-dropped. Thank god I stop him in time.





We finally arrived to where the Ponyville Spa was, if I remember correctly, but as soon as we entered the place, we saw a familiar yellow Pegasus sitting  down, waiting for something.

"Fluttershy, what are you doing here?" I asked curiously. "I never knew you go to the spa."

"Oh hey Ren, Kodiak, Mason, and Carrie." Fluttershy replied with a soft smile.  "I'm just here because me and Rarity always like coming here for our weekly get-together. We like coming here every week for an afternoon of relaxation. We even talk and catch up on things that we missed out."

"Oh, I see." I replied with a smile as Kodi hopped onto her lap and nuzzled her, much to Fluttershy's joy. "Well we're here to help Mason relax from his broken shoulder."

"Yeah, besides, we got bored and got nothing to do." Kodi said, letting out a yawn. Fluttershy softly smiled as she scratched his back, much to his joy. "Ooh yeah, that's the spot." I chuckled a bit at him enjoying a back rub. Good old Kodiak...

"Well...it is nice for to be hanging out with you, I guess." Mason said, softly smiling at her. Suddenly, the door behind us opened and we saw Rarity, who was wearing a stylish hat, no doubt of something special or she made that herself for many reasons.

"So sorry, Fluttershy, I didn't mean to be tardy for our weekly get-together." Rarity said until she noticed us. "Oh, Ren, Mason, Carrie, and Kodiak, are you four here for some relaxation as well?"

"Yeah, to help big brother heal his shoulder up." Carrie replied with a happy smile. Mason blushed a bit and rubbed his sister's head.

"Yeah, besides, we thought that it would be fun and relax a bit." Kodi added as he hopped off of Fluttershy's  lap.

"Well then, you're both welcome to join us." Rarity offered as she turned to the receptionist. "The usual, please!" The receptionist nodded and escorted us to the room. You know, I wonder what kind of treatment they have here besides the bath.




"Ahh...this is the life..." I muttered, letting out a grin. We were in the sauna as the ponies who worked here helped make us more relax by pouring water onto hot rocks. We were all wearing bathrobes, they even filly size for Carrie, even if she’s a human girl. Kodiak didn’t get one as they didn’t have ‘dog-size’, but he didn’t mind as he was enjoying the peaceful hot water.

“None of you will believe what happened to me!” Rarity exclaimed in excitement.

“Is everything alright?” Fluttershy asked in worried.

“Oh, it’s much more than alright, dears.” Rarity said as she calmed her excitement down. “On my way here, while wearing my latest hat creation, I was stopped by none other than Photo Finish!”

“Photo Finish?” Kodi asked, not familiar with that name.

“Who’s that, Rarity?” Carrie asked before making a giggle. “Because that name is kinda funny for a pony.” Well, now that you mention it, almost everyone's’ name sounds like ice cream flavors, and metaphors.

“I imagine that she’s another famous pony here in this world, correct?” Mason guessed.

“Why yes Mason!” Rarity nodded as we moved to get our facials and our hair washed and trimmed a little. I just hope that they didn’t cute most of my hair. “See, she’s only the famous fashion photographer in all of Equestria, my friends!” She explained as a Spa pony placed cucumber slices over her eyes. “Anywho, she saw my hat and thought it was absolutely marvelous!”

“Wow, that’s amazing!” I complimented. Makes senses since she is the world’s best fashionista in all of Ponyville, possibly Equestria.

“Wow, first Sapphire Shores, and now this Photo Finish….” Mason said, crossing his arms as it began relaxing a bit while the spa ponies dried his hair, but I guess it’s troubling for them to do that since they have never did this for a human, well except me, that is. “You must be famous if you’re able to gather many celebrities to your shop, Rarity.”

“Oh, thank you Ren.” Rarity smiled towards Mason as we moved on, where she got her horn-icures, and Carrie got a manicure, though, Mason suggested that he did it for the spa ponies since they have never done it before and began doing the manicure for her.

“See, she was so impressed that she wants to take some pictures of my shop featuring some of my clothes!” Rarity exclaimed.

“That’s wonderful.” Fluttershy praised her. After the manicures, or horn-icures in Rarity’s case, we received our massages.

“Wow, that’s so awesome, Rarity!” Kodi exclaimed, getting his back rubbed. “I know you’ll do awesome, right Ren?”

“Of course Kodiak, we know that you’ll impress Photo Finish.” I nodded as I let out a ‘Ahh’ as my back began to feel more relax at being rubbed by the spa ponie’s hooves. You know, these ponies know how to use their hooves to make somepony relax. Once our massage was done, Rarity got a full-body seaweed wrap and had a mudbatch with Fluttershy and Carrie while me, Mason, and Kodiak moved onto the Jacuzzi. As we melted into the steaming water, I began wondering about Mason. He was like staring into space, probably thinking about going back home.

“Hey Mason, how’s your arm?” I asked in concern. Mason snapped back into reality and turned to me with a soft smile.

“It’s feeling alright, I guess.” Mason replied, moving his left arm a bit.

“Huh, I guess this spa appointment was a good idea to relax your arm.” Kodi commented with a smile. Mason smiled as he scratch Kodi on the ear gently. You know, for someone who takes his Ken-do training seriously, he sure has a love just like animals. Maybe….

“Hey Mason, can I ask you something?”

“Sure, what is it, Ren?” Mason asked.

“Remember back at the slumber party with the Crusaders?” I reminded him.

“Yeah, so?” Mason raised a brow as I said “Well, I remember you saying about an orphanage where you and Carrie used to live. Where you guys orphans back then?” After I asked that question, Mason darkened his face a bit.

“I’m sorry Ren, but that’s none of your business.” Mason replied, much to my surprise.

“O-oh, I see, sorry for asking.” I said, feeling a little guilty for asking something like that. “If it’s personal, then I understand.”

“No no, it’s just that….” Mason sighed as he said “Just, next time when the time is right.” I nodded as Kodi paddle his way towards me and relaxed between me and Mason.

“So, what do you guys wanna do after we’re done with our spa treatment?” Kodi asked.

“I guess I could get to work on my painting job, but then again, I have to wait till an event here in Equestria comes by, so I got nothing.” I shrugged.

“I guess...I could explore Ponyville a little more. I haven’t seen every part of the town.” Mason suggested.

“That’s a great idea!” Kodi agreed with that. Mason let out a soft smile and petted him. You know, when we first met, I thought he was a jerk, but he started to open up to us, he’s a nice guy. Suddenly, he widened his eyes a little as he turned to me.

“By the way Ren, there was something I was meaning to ask you.” Mason said, much to my confusion. Wonder what it is?

“Please please please!” Huh? Was that Rarity? We turned to her to see Rarity begging Fluttershy and Carrie for something.

“Well...if it’s that important to you, of course I’ll do it.” Fluttershy sighed with a soft smile.

“Yeah, but I’ll have ask my big brother about that. “ Carrie added. We raised brows at them, just what are they talking about?

“Oh thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!” Rarity exclaimed happily. “You’re the best friend a pony could ever have!” I noticed Mason looking at them, feeling quite worried. I understand that feeling, I would feel concern for my older brother and younger sister if there was something troubling them.




After our spa treatment came to an end, we all exited out, feeling quite refreshed! Ahh, I feel like a new man.

“What a lovely way to spend an afternoon.” Fluttershy sighed.

“Tell me about it.” I nodded with a grin.

“Yes, but now, I think it’s best if we part ways.” Rarity said. “Fluttershy agreed to model for me once Photo Finish arrives to critique my work.”

“I see…” I said, turning to Flutters. “Flutters….you sure you can handle it?”

“I think I can.” Fluttershy said, having doubts upon herself, but she made a confident smile. “But I’m sure I can handle it.” There’s the Fluttershy I know.

“Yes and...um, Mason…” Rarity turned to the red-scarf wearing boy.

“Yes, Rarity?” Mason asked.

“Don’t be mad...but can I borrow your sister?” Mason eyes widened to hear that. I knew it! She was planning to have Carrie and Fluttershy for modeling her clothes.

“W-what?! You want to use my sister for some modeling career?!” Mason exclaimed in surprise.

“Look, I understand that you’re angry, but please, I thought that maybe Photo Finish would like to see a human modeling my clothes along with a pony like Fluttershy.” Rarity explained. “Besides, she’s the one who asked me to.” Mason turned to Carrie, who began to feel sad that her brother probably wouldn’t allow it.

“Please big brother, it’s just one day, please.” Carrie pulled off a puppy dog stare at her brother, which she could rivaled Kodiak. Mason let out a sigh and smiled softly at his sister.

“Alright...just one time, okay?” Mason said, ruffling his sister’s hair, causing her to chuckle.

“Thanks big brother.” Carrie nodded as Rarity spoke up and said “Well thank you so much Mason, now come along Fluttershy and Carrie, let’s go.”

“Okay.” Fluttershy nodded.

“Alright, see ya big brother!” Carrie waved goodbye to us as they began to leave until Fluttershy stop, which Carrie noticed. “Hm? Is there something wrong, Fluttershy?”

“Well….I was thinking if….Ren would be there for me, please?” Fluttershy asked, much to my surprise.

“Huh? Why’s that?” I asked in confusion.

“W-well...it’s just that...I’m just having some stage fright, but…” Fluttershy made a pleading expression. “Can you please come with me?”

“Umm….” I began to think for a while. Well, I bet Mason would want me to watch over his little sister in case something went wrong, so I guess why not. “Okay, I see why not.”

“Oh thank you Ren!” Fluttershy immediately hugged me. Well, I do want to see what this Photo Finish pony looks like, so I don’t mind. I then turned to Kodiak and Mason and said “Sorry guys, looks like I’m going to be their audience. Hey Mason, do you think you could Kodi for me?”

“Yes, Ren.” Mason said, which Kodi’s ear dropped down in sadness.

“Ren, I thought you were gonna hang out with me?” Kodi asked, feeling sad. After Fluttershy finished hugging me, I bent down and hugged my little puppy.

“Don’t worry boy, it won’t be long, I promise.” I said, smiling towards him.

“You promise?” Kodi asked, raising a brow.

“I promise.” I nodded.

“Pinkie Promise?” Oh, I see where this is going. I let out a sigh and said “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” I said, doing the gestures that Pinkie showed me. Kodi licked me on the face and became happy again.

“That’s all I needed to hear! See ya Ren!” Kodi ran back home, which Mason following after him.

“Yeah, I’ll see you later you guys, I guess.” Mason replied with a wave and chased after Kodiak. I just hope he doesn’t do anything too crazy. I then turned back to Carrie, Rarity, and Fluttershy.

“Alright girls, let’s go!” I said with a grin.

“Why yes, Ren darling, come along.” Rarity said as she led us back to the Boutique.




Later
As soon as we entered the shop, Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie were with them as well. Apparently, Rarity called them over and asked for their help.

Rarity went nonstop on making the perfect dress for both Carrie and Fluttershy. Rarity was already dressing them both behind some blinds and pulled them out once she was done. Fluttershy was wearing...some sorta outfit with a dark headdress and the dress had many different colors in it along with a dark pink furry trim at the end. Carrie’s outfit made her look like a maid as she was wearing a white headress in it with a pink bow on it. She also wore a white apron dress in a pinafore style with a butterfly mark on it. Four black buttons along the middle of the torso of her dress, A pink dress is donned underneath her apron dress with a black collar, and a purple tie around her neck. The sleeves of her shirt have elegant frills at the end, which goes along with the bubble skirt appearance of her dress. She also wears pink, high-laced pinwheel shoes, the laces are yellow and are wrapped around her ankles and settling into a neat bow at her feet.

“Whoa….” I muttered, impressed by their outfits.

“Hmm….” Rarity looked at the two, observing them. “She’s going to want to see attitude and pizzazz.”

“Attitude and pizzazz?” Carrie asked in confusion.

“W-what do you mean, Rarity?” Fluttershy asked, trying to stay confident.

“More light!” Rarity ordered, ignoring Fluttershy’s question. “It has to catch to catch the sequins just so or the whole outfit is just a disaster.” Twilight used her magic to increase the amount of light.

“Whoa, that’s bright!” Carrie exclaimed.

“Oh, and the headdresses needs more feathers and bows! Pinkie Pie! More feathers and bows!” Rarity demanded. Pinke hopped joyfully over to her, bringing a basket of feathers and bows. Rarity grabbed about five feathers and two bows and moved them over to the headdresses, causing Fluttershy and Carrie to flinch. Rarity then let out a gasp. No offense, but does she have to do that every time she missed something? “And sequins! More sequins!”

Spike walked over to her in a dazed look, bringing back the sequins Rarity asked. Rarity grabbed them as well, and threw them at Fluttershy and Carrie, and making Fluttershy whine a little as he flinched. Carrie blushed a bit at the new stuff Rarity was adding.

“And more ribbon!” Spike placed a couple of bows on Fluttershy. “Oh no! Less ribbon!” Seriously, what’s the difference? Sorry, but I’m not fashion-ologist to know why add more things but five seconds later, make them less. It seems fine to me. Anyway, Spike removed them. “No! More ribbon!” Spike reattached them, which made Fluttershy and Carrie to give him annoyed expressions.

“Rarity, are we done?” Carrie complained.

“Don’t worry Carrie, we’re almost done.” Rarity said before noticing something off her dress. “Oh, the butterfly mark isn’t good enough.” I face-palmed for her saying that. Man, who knew being a fashionista was so hard. “PINCUSHION!” Spike quickly rushed over, bringing a couple of regular pins in his back, along with a couple shaped as hearts. She pulled a few out and scooted Spike away. As Spike backed away slowly, Rarity placed the pins on Carrie’s dress. “Thank you all for helping me. I’m sorry to be so short with you, but I’m...I’m just nervous.”

“Oh.” Twilight muttered, looking at Spike in concern after seeing Rarity removed those pins out of him. “Doesn’t that hurt?”

“Thick scales. Can’t feel a thing.” Spike explained.

“Is it because you’re a dragon?” I asked, which he nodded.

“Yep, besides, no matter what Rarity has in store for me, I’ll handle it!” Spike said excitedly. “Besides, even if I refuse, there’s nothing that can stop me from being with the most beautiful pony in the world!” Spike added, making goo-goo eyes at Rarity. Me and Pinkie gave him confuse looks while Twilight made a deadpan expression and sighed.

“Okay, I’m going to tell you guys a secret!” Spike said, turning to us with a pleading look. “And you have to promise that you won’t tell anyone!”

“Um….okay?” I asked. Wonder what could it be? Does it have something to do with him acting all weird around Rarity?

“I promise.” Twilight nodded with a smile.

“Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!” Pinkie said, doing the gestures of her Pinkie Promise. Spike looked back at Rarity, who was still busy fixing the butterfly mark in Carrie’s outfit. Spike gestured at us to come closer, and as we did, he made us come even more closer, probably to make sure Rarity didn’t hear him.

“I have a crush on Rarity!” Spike whispered with a grin. I widened my eyes in surprise while Pinkie gasp and Twilight just deadpanned. Okay, wow, did not expect that to happen! I mean, a dragon and a pony dating each other, that’s crazy! Imagine a human dating a pony!

“We promise we won’t say a word!” Pinkie exclaimed, promising Spike to not tell anyone.

“Yeah, we promise that no matter what, we won’t tell anyone.” I said, smiling towards him.

Twilight sighed and said “Oh give me a break, everypony know this-”

“Twilight!” Pinkie stopped her, surprising her a bit. “You promise Spike that you won’t tell anyone about this! He trust you!” Pinkie pointed at Spike, who looked back to see Rarity continuing her work with Fluttershy and Carrie. “And losing a friend’s trust means losing your best friend forever!”

“Are you sure, Pinks?” I asked, raising a brow. I mean, I’m good at keeping secrets and such, but does telling anyone a secret that your friends promised not to tell really that important?

“Of course Rennie!” Pinkie exclaimed, grabbing both my cheeks. “I mean, you wouldn’t want to lose Spike forever, did you?” Pinkie asked as she pointed at Spike, who made a pleading look.

“Umm...okay.” I nodded as she let go of me and patted me on the head.

“B-but-”

“FOREVER!” Pinkie warned, cutting Twilight off again. She looked at her for a sec before smiling softly and said “My lips are sealed.” Pinkie smiled at approval of Twilight promising that.

“But I’m sure Rarity will one day pick up on your feelings.” Twilight said, with a smirk and a raised brow.

“Really Twilight, how so?” I asked. She pointed at Spike, who apparently was wearing a white T-shirt with a heart on it, and Rarity on the heart. Wait, where did he even get that?

Suddenly, we heard the doorbell ring as we turned to see a...okay, what the heck?! She was a light blue pony with gray mane and tail as she wore black sunglass with pink shades, and a black dress with white outlines and pink dots in them. Seriously, why must all female ponies have to almost steal Lady Gaga’s style. She was even accompanied by two other ponies wearing weird outfits as well. Sometimes, I honestly don’t know what’s even going on anymore.

“Photo Finish...has arrived!” She announced in a dramatic tone.

“Let me just say…” Rarity walked towards her with a hopeful smile. “What an honor!” Unfortunately, she walked past her, much to Rarity’s surprise. I guess even superstars and celebrities have their limits. Rarity didn’t mind as she smiled at her, but nervously.

“We began…” One of the ponies accompanying Photo Finish walked up and brought a suitcase and set it on the ground. “Now!” Photo Finish touched the suitcase, as it popped out and turned into a camera. Okay, that’s awesome! I gotta go do that!

She then noticed Carrie, and made an intrigued expression. “And I say, this must one of the humans that I’ve heard about, correct?” This caused me to look at her in confusion. “And I have to say, she’s look so adorable.” Carrie blushed a bit at that compliment and smiled happily at her.

“Thank you Ms. Photo Finish.” She said, which Photo Finish gasp.

And that voice, it’s so elegant!” Well, she is a nine-year child, so it makes sense if a child’s voice sounds amazing. But one thing bothered me.

“Hey wait a minute, how did she know about our kind?” I asked.

“Well, after I told Princess Celestia about you guys, she told everyone across Equestria about your kind and what you guys look like.” Twilight explained sheepishly.

“Oh, go figure.” I said, understanding now. I guess Celestia must known that in case if somepony around Equestria didn’t know about my kind, she had to tell them. Good idea Celestia. I then noticed Fluttershy became nervous in front of the camera while Carrie made a soft smile.

“Remember, attitude and pizzazz!” I heard Rarity whispered to them before rushing back to us. Photo Finish snapped pictures of Fluttershy and Carried as they stood there, flinching at each flash of the camera.

“Yes! Show Photo Finish something.” Photo Finish encouraged as she kept snapping pictures at them. You know, I thought Trixie was the ego type with the third person act, but she takes the cake. I saw Rarity making a pose behind Photo Finish, and Carrie and Fluttershy did the same pose Rarity made. Is she trying to show how to be perfect in a photo-shoot or something? “No!” Carrie and Fluttershy flinched at her voice being raised as Fluttershy lowered herself and held her head low and let out another whine while Carrie just stood there with a bow and a nervous smile. “Yeees.” I feel like Photo Finish is being a creep.

Rarity instructed another pose behind Photo Finish, which Fluttershy and Carrie followed. “NO!” Fluttershy and Carrie, shocked, stared at the floor in sad and worried expressions. “Yees.” Rarity tried out another strong pose, which the two girls yet again followed. “No!” Oh, for pete’s sake, why is she even saying that? It’s starting to annoying me. Fluttershy laid herself on the platform in another depressing pose. “Yeees.” Photo Finish took two more pictures until…

“ENOUGH!” She yelled as the camera was turned back into a suitcase and a pony came by to pick it up. Photo Finish then began walking out the shop.

“She hardly took any pictures.” Twilight whispered towards me, which I nodded in agreement while I felt bad for her.

“I’m so sorry, Rarity. I tried my best.” Fluttershy said, removing her headdress.

“Yeah, me too. We didn’t mean to let you down.” Carrie added, feeling bad for Rarity.

“It’s alright you two.” Rarity said, making a weak smile. “Well, the headdress is too big for you two, and the cape and apron had too much sparkle. I can’t believe I ever thought I could impress her.”

“It seems that I, Photo Finish, have found a next fashion star here in Ponyville.” We turned around in surprise to see Photo Finish, as she made a pose. Wait, what did she say?

“Really?!” Rarity asked, her eyes sparkling in joy.

“Yes, really! And I, Photo Finish, am going to help her to shine all over Equestria.” Rarity released a grin. “In an hour, a photo shoot in the park!” And cue the awkward silence, of course. “I go!” She immediately ran out of the door, leaving Rarity in pure joy and us in pure shock. Well, that was easier than I thought.

“Did you hear that?! I am going to ‘shine all over Equestria’.” Rarity exclaimed.

“Oh, Rarity. I was so worried we’d ruined everything.” Fluttershy responded.

“Yeah, me too.” Carrie added.

“Oh, never.” I knew you’d be perfect.” You didn’t say that when Photo Finish left after she took those photos. Rarity then began giggling, which soon became a very excited laughter and bounced happily up and down on Spike’s tail, inflicting pain in him as he just stood there, staring at her in pure wonder. What is up with-oh right, his crush on Rarity, right....

Twilight noticed this as she dragged him out of the way with a deadpan expression on her face. Once Rarity finished her excitement, she looked over to Carrie and Fluttershy.

“Come on, Carrie and Fluttershy! We have to get ready for another photo shoot!” Rarity quickly rushed out of the shop as Carrie and Fluttershy followed after them.

“Well, looks like I have to go.” I said, smiling before turning to Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie. “I’ll see you all later, bye!”

“See ya Rennie!” Pinkie waved goodbye to me.

“Um...I’ll see you later, Ren.” Twilight said, smiling softly at me as I began leaving the shop and following after the two. Who would’ve thought that Rarity’s career could finally hit its mark. I’m proud of her, even Carrie and Fluttershy.




One Hour Later
We were in the park, waiting for Photo Finish to arrive. I was standing around in hopes to see her.

“Hey Ren!” Huh? I turned to see Mason and Kodiak walking towards me. Kodi jumped onto my arms and started nuzzling me. “Ren, oh boy, I miss you so much!”

“H-hey Kodi, how’s it going?” I asked, surprised to see him so energetic. I then turned to Mason and asked “So, how its going?”

“It’s going alright. Kodi and I ate some fruits, but he begged me to take him to Sugarcube Corner to go and eat some candy snacks.” Mason explained. “I told him no, but he pulled off that puppy dog stare at me, so I couldn’t ignore it and did it. He’s now acting so hype.”

“Huh, I see.” I said, smirking at the little guy, who smiled sheepishly at me.

“So, how’s my sister doing?” Mason asked curiously.

“Oh, it’s going great actually!” I said, rubbing my head bashfully. “Photo Finish loved the outfits Rarity made and its going to make her a shining star of all Equestria!”

“Huh...that’s good to hear.” Mason said, smiling softly. “So where are they now?”

“Well….” I looked behind me to see Carrie and Fluttershy with Rarity behind the blinds.

“No, no, no, yes!” She closed the blinds and revealed Fluttershy and Carrie in gem-studded outfits. “That is definitely the one! Photo Finish is going to love it! Everypony is going to love it!”

“Oh, I am so excited for you.” Fluttershy responded happily but softly.

“Yeah, just don’t forget us little ponies and humans when you become the most famous designer in all of Equestria.” Carrie said excitedly before noticing her brother. “Oh hi big brother! What are you doing here?”

“Just came to check in you, that’s all.” Mason replied with a serious expression. “So...are you almost done?”

“And what’s up with those weird outfits?” Kodi asked, gazing at their outfits.

“Oh, we are. Just need to finish a photo-shoot with Photo Finish.” Rarity replied with a smile. “And these Kodiak, dear, are my newest outfits that she’ll love!”

“Oh, okay.” Kodi nodded.

“Put me down here.” We turned to see Photo Finish, who was apparently being carried by her pony friends. She jumped off the platform she was sitting in and observed both Fluttershy and Carrie’s outfits for a moment. “Oh, no no no no no. The model should be in something simple! Something inspired by...the nature!”

“That’s just what I was thinking!” Rarity quickly responded, until she noticed the cart she brought along. She kicked the cart away out of nervousness and walked towards Photo Finish. “Um...give me a moment and I’ll, uh, put a little something together.”

“Yes...that will not be necessary.” Photo Finish replied.

“Huh?” I asked.

“What?” Mason added.

“B-b-but...how are you going to help me ‘shine across Equestria’ if I don’t design something new for these pictures?” Rarity asked.

“I am not going to help you shine across Equestria. I am going to help them to shine!” Photo Finish pointed her hoof towards Fluttershy and Carrie, surprising us all.

“WHAT?!” Mason exclaimed. The ponies that helped carried Photo Finish here came over and pushed both Fluttershy and Carrie off somewhere in the park.

“H-hey wait!” Carrie exclaimed as she looked at her brother in shock. “Mason!”

“R-Ren!” Fluttershy exclaimed, calling my name. As soon as they put far away from us, we all jaw-dropped to see what just happened.

“They’re my star!” Photo Finish answered before glaring at Rarity. “You! Go!” Photo Finish went her way, leaving us in shock and surprise.

“Fluttershy...and Carrie...as models?” I muttered in shock. Oh boy, this can’t be good. Mason grew angry as he heard this as I could’ve sense a dark aura around him. Oh man…

“That foolish mare! How dare she take my sister away and make her a model?!” Mason growled. “She’s only nine years old!”

“I know how you feel, and I’m also worried about Fluttershy as well.” I replied before turning to Rarity, who was so heartbroken. “But...Rarity-”

“No no, it’s fine Ren darling.” Rarity replied with a forced smile before she sighed. “I’ll just...be...fine..” This caused me to feel so heartbroken for her.

“Poor Rarity, that mean Photo Finish is so mean!” Kodi exclaimed in anger. “She dismissed Rarity like that and took both Fluttershy and Carrie away like that, without even listening to their opinions or even made them think of this!”

“I know, right?” I agreed with him. I mean, who does that? I seen that happen in TV, but seeing it in real life is so….what’s the word?

“Come on, let’s go.” Mason spoke up, darkening his face.

“Huh? What is it, Mason?” I asked in concern until he grabbed my shirt collar and started dragging me.

“Just come on!” Mason exclaimed, still angry at Photo Finish taking her sister away like that. I can understand that he’s the overprotected brother to Carrie, I mean, my own brother would’ve done the same, but still…

“Hey, wait up!” Kodi said, chasing after us, along with Rarity. I just hope both Fluttershy and Carrie are alright.

Me, Mason, Kodi, and Rarity went over to Carrie and Fluttershy, who were noe dressed in nature-inspiring dresses. Rarity had grabbed the outfit she had place on both Carrie and Fluttershy, which was thrown in the floor, and placed it back in her cart full of other dresses while holding her head low.

“Fluttershy, Carrie...Do you two really want to be models?” I asked in worried.

“I can’t!” Fluttershy shook her head.

“Yeah, I want to go home!” Carrie complained. “I didn’t even asked to be a model!”

“Gee, I wonder why?” Mason asked, angrily glancing at Rarity, which she ignored.

“Oh, but you must, Fluttershy and Carrie.” Rarity said, causing me, Kodi, and Mason to widened our eyes.

“WHAT?!” We exclaimed in shock. What is Rarity doing?!

“Photo Finish wants to make you a star. This is the opportunity of a lifetime. I know we were all hoping it would be my lifetime, but nonetheless you can’t throw away this chance. You must do this for me. You must. You must! YOU MUST!”

“B-but…” Fluttershy couldn’t find the right words and Carrie went silent with a sad look.

“Rarity, Fluttershy and Carrie don’t want to be models!” Mason exclaimed, clenching his fist in anger. “Besides, Carrie is nine year old! She’s even too young to be a model at all!”

“B-but Mason, please, just give them a chance.” Rarity replied with a weak smile.

“Uh oh...this isn’t good.” Kodi muttered, hiding behind my legs. Before Mason could respond, Photo Finish appeared, interrupting our conversation.

“Fluttershy! Carrie! It is time to make...the magics!” Photo Finish exclaimed.

“...What?” Carrie asked. Fluttershy looked over to us as Rarity gave off a wide grin, Mason crossed his arms and looked away. I let out a sigh and became depressed that two of my best friends are being taken away from me. Kodi still hid behind my legs, but I can feel how sad he was. Fluttershy sighed as she and Carrie began walking over to Photo Finish.

“Oh wonderful! You are like a delicate flower. So much more alluring without all those sparkles and feathers!” Photo Finish commented as she walked with Fluttershy and Carrie. So wait, she never liked the outfit Rarity made, the nerve of her!

“Fluttershy…” I muttered sadly. Wait...what is this feeling I have? I never felt something like this before. It’s just not fair. For her being taken away like that, it’s not fair. I could even feel how Mason is feeling as he darkened his face and gritted his teeth, thinking about Carrie. I just hope they’re both alright….





A few days later
Wow, a few days have past and everypony is going crazy for both Fluttershy and Carrie. Apparently, Photo Finish got them booked up for a fashion the other night, much against their own free will, and they were made famous after the end of the show. Now everypony is making an uproar about this, all except for me, Rarity, Kodi, and Mason.

Me, Mason, and Kodi were walking through the streets of Ponyville, seeing so many advertising products with Fluttershy and Carrie’s faces on it. This has gone too far, and we need to stop this...but how?

“I can’t take it anymore…” Mason muttered, darkening his face. “...Just why is this happening?” I turned to Mason with a sad look.

“Mason...I’m sorry. I should’ve just stopped this….” I muttered sadly.

“....Whatever.” He responded darkly and soon started to take his leave.

“Hey Mason, where are you going?” Kodi asked.

“Just...somewhere alone.” Mason said sadly, still darkening his face and soon left.

“Mason…” I muttered. I should’ve done something instead of standing around, looking like a fool.

“What are we going to do?” Kodi asked. I didn’t say anything as I kept thinking about Fluttershy and Carrie. I have to do something...but what? Suddenly, I felt someone bumping into me as I turned around to see…

“F-Fluttershy! Carrie?!” I exclaimed, but they quickly shushed me.

“Ren, be quiet, please!” Carrie exclaimed. I nodded as they looked around, seeing that nopony was looking at them and quickly grabbed me and took me behind a building. Once we arrived, me and Kodi looked at them in joy.

“I’m so glad that we can see you guys again.” I said happily.

“Yeah, we hadn’t seen you two since we last talk back at the park, and we didn’t go to the fashion show because we were too depressed and headed back home.” Kodi said sadly.

“It’s okay…” Fluttershy said, scratching Kodi’s ear, causing him to wag his tail.

“Yeah, I miss you doing that…” Kodi muttered happily.

“So...how’s big brother?” Carrie asked worriedly.

“He’s...not handling the situation.” I replied with a sad look. Carrie let out a sad sigh and became depressed.

“It’s my fault.” Carrie muttered, catching me by surprise.

“What?” I asked.

“Ren, Kodi, we can’t take it anymore.” Fluttershy said sadly. “We don’t want to be models anymore. We hate it!”

“Yeah! I hate being a model. All this attention is awful, just awful! It’s made us just so busy to not even be able to see my friends and big brother...and separate ourselves from them…” Carrie said, letting out a tear.

“But why don’t you tell Rarity, then?” Kodi suggested.

“But we’re doing this because Rarity told us we must!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “We must! We must! We MUST!...We must…”

“Fluttershy, Carrie, I’m sure Rarity will understand if you two tell her how you feel.” I said, smiling softly.

“Y-you really think so?” Fluttershy asked.

“Of course, I’m sure Rarity will understand, and soon, you girls won’t be models anymore.” I replied with a smile. Fluttershy and Carrie looked at each other before smiling softly.
“Okay, thank you Ren.” Fluttershy said softly.

“Yeah, thanks Ren.” Carrie added. “I just hope its work, I just want to be with my big brother again, I mean, I don’t want to leave my brother forever, he’s the only family I have left.”

“Huh?” Kodi asked in confusion. She must be talking about her time back in the orphanage with Mason. Well, with nopony looking around for us, I guess I could ask her about her family. But before I could respond…

“Look everypony, it’s Fluttershy and Carrie!” We turned around in shock to see one pony noticing us, and soon a crowd came charging in.

“Look out!” Kodi exclaimed. I quickly grabbed Kodi and began running away from the crowd, along with Fluttershy and Carrie as they ran away from the other direction.

“Carrie! Fluttershy!” I called out to them.

“Don’t worry, we’ll see you later!” Fluttershy yelled back as they ran away from the crowd. Stupid paparazzi. Oh well...at least they’ll tell Rarity the truth.

“So Ren, do you you can put me down now?” I looked at Kodi, who was looking at me with a raised brow.

“Oh sorry boy.” I said, putting him down. “So anyway, I just hope Flutters and Carrie will tell Rarity the truth.” I said in worried.

“Don’t worry Ren, I’m sure they’ll do.” Kodi replied with a grin. Yeah, I hope so.




Mason’s POV
This is so stupid! Carrie was forced into a model by that Photo Finish?! This is stupid! I couldn’t get to the show because I didn’t have any of their currency and Ren was running low on it, so we couldn’t buy the stupid tickets! I can’t afford to lose her! Ugh….I think I need to head to the Spa and relax a bit.

I arrived to the Ponyville Spa, and headed in to get a special treatment, but as soon as I walked in, I saw both Twilight and...Rarity...I was still angry at her. She was the cause of all this.

“Oh hello Mason, I didn’t know you were coming.” Rarity said, but I just ignored her. She noticed and looked away in sadness.

“Mason, are you still mad at...Carrie being a model?” Twilight asked in worried.

“Gee, what was your first guess?” I asked, looking away from her.

“Hey, I was just asking and trying to help.” Twilight responded with a glare before letting out a sigh. “Look Mason, I can understand how you feel, even we do. Besides, it seems they didn’t come here at all.” This caused me to look at her with a surprise look.

“What? Were they coming here?” I asked, hoping to see my little sis here. I haven’t seen her for a few days as she was taken by that stupid photographer pony. I had to go and pick her up late at night, but every time we try to go outside, she always either get overcrowded by fans or get taken away by Photo Finish. I just don’t want to lose them...not like…No, I don’t want to think about it. Just...stay focus Mason.

“They were supposed to.” Rarity sighed. “Fluttershy, Carrie, and I had an appointment...My hooves are getting positively pruney.” Is there anything else that you should be worried about than yourself these days?  “I’ve been waiting here so long. Obviously Fluttershy and Carrie’s just too busy with their new career to spend time with their best friend.”

“I’m sure they got tied up…” Twilight said, trying to make the situation more better.

“Of course she did! They’re big bright shining stars! I wish those two star would burn out!” Rarity growled in anger until she noticed a dark glare I was giving her. If she was planning in hurting my sister, she’s got another thing coming.

“B-but Rarity! Fluttershy and Carrie are your friends!” Twilight exclaimed.

“I know, I know. And I should be happy for them, but instead I’m just...jealous! Oh, please promise you won’t tell her I feel this way. Please, please, please, please, PLEASE!” Rarity begged.

“You have my word.” Twilight nodded.

Rarity then turned to me and said “Please Mason, don’t tell Carrie and Fluttershy about this! I don’t want them to be angry at me, and I can understand you hate me because I was the one who made them models, but please! Don’t tell them!” I glared at her for a moment before I let out a sigh and softened my expression.

“Fine.” I responded.

“Oh thank you Mason!” Rarity said happily.

“We promise that we won’t tell anyone.” Twilight said, smiling towards Rarity. “Losing a friend’s trust is the fastest way to lose a friend.”

“FOREVER!” We all turned to see Pinkie Pie appearing out of a bowl of sponges. We looked at her for a moment before she slowly departed back into the bowl. I walked over to the bowl of sponges and look through it, but became shocked to find her gone. What the heck?! Where did she go?! How did she?!

“I’m not going to begin to know how she did.” I said deadpanned. Soon, Rarity climbed out of the tub and went on and put some pretty fru-fru dress on.

“Wow! You look great!” Twilight exclaimed, amazed with Rarity’s dress.

“Fluttershy may be the one who’s famous.” Rarity explained. “...But that doesn’t mean I have to stop looking fabulous.” Rarity walked out of the door, but I noticed the sly smirk on her muzzle. Just...what is she planning? Suddenly, Nate and Maddy came out of my scarf and nuzzled my face, cheering me up a bit.

“Hey Mason.” Hm? I glanced towards Twilight, who made a concern expression. “I can understand how you feel, but don’t be mad at Rarity, she didn’t know.” I continued to look at her before letting out a sigh.

“Alright…” I muttered as I took my leave of the spa, not looking back, but I can almost feel the sigh Twilight made. Whatever, I just need...alone time…




Ren’s POV
Ugh….I was at home, laying on the couch, looking at the ceiling, with Kodi on my stomach. I wonder if Fluttershy and Carrie talked with Rarity.

“Hey, maybe we should go to that show that’s coming tonight? I mean, we did see some posters telling us about the next show coming up tonight. We can see them there.” Kodi offered.

“I guess...but still-” Suddenly, we heard the door opened as we looked to see Mason coming, along with his two pet squirrels, Nate and Maddy, as he walked in, with a sigh. “Oh hey Mason.”

“Hey…” Mason replied as he darkened his face. I couldn’t help but feel bad for him. I think it’s time to talk to him.

“Hey Mason.” I gained his attention. “I know you’re angry, but earlier, I just encountered Fluttershy and Carre.” Mason widened his eyes to hear that.

“R-really?! What did they say?!” Mason demanded.

“Apparently, they didn’t want to be models, but they didn’t want to hurt Rarity’ feelings.” I replied, much to Mason’s confusion.

“Well that’s strange because I met up with Rarity at the spa and she told me that she was jealous of them, and told me not to tell them about her jealousy.” Mason said, much to my surprise.

“Then wait, does that mean…” I couldn’t believe it. So that means they’re regretting in their decisions and don’t want to hurt each other feelings.

“Is this bad?” Kodi asked.

“Well yeah, I mean they don’t know that they regretting in what they’re doing and are doing it for each other with knowing each other’s feelings.” I replied, rubbing my head bashfully.

“Well, we should tell them then.” Kodi said.

“I guess, but then again, Pinkie Pie came out of nowhere at the Spa and told me to never break the promise between each other.” Mason replied.

“What?! Pinkie?!” I exclaimed. Great, I forgot about her Pinkie Promises!

“NEVER BREAK THE PINKIE PROMISE!” What the heck?! We turned around to see Pinkie on the window, with a serious expression before she got off the window and disappeared out of sight.

“That mare is gonna be the death of me…” I muttered. Even if I got used to her randomness, I don’t think I can handle her yet, I think.

“Well anyway…” Mason spoke up. “I think its best if we try to solve the situation! If we can get them to admit their true feelings to each other, then everything will go back to normal!” Mason suggested.

“Yeah, I guess so!” I nodded in agreement.

“Awesome! Let’s go!” Kodi exclaimed, scaring both Nate and Maddy as they hid back inside of Alex’s scarf. “Oops, sorry.” Yep, those two squirrels are still gonna get used to him someday, I think.




Later
We immediately ran straight for the show, but luckily, it wasn’t a problem to get through the ticket booth as Mason was able to knock out the security guards. We’ll apologize to them later, but doesn’t matter!

“The showroom is right through this direction!” Kodi exclaimed as we kept running. “We’re gonna make it!”

“Bravo! I say bravo! Such attitude, such pizzazz! She’s invented an entirely new kind of modelling!”

“Huh? What the heck?” I asked as we looked around for the source of the noise. Strange, I could’ve swear I heard-

“Rarity?!” Mason exclaimed as we looked to see Rarity, who was at the show as she clapped her hooves and wore a sparkling cape and headdress, the same clothes Fluttershy wore.

“What the heck?! I thought you said Rarity wanted Fluttershy and Carrie to topple!” I exclaimed.

“I did, what is she doing?” Mason asked, raising a brow at her. Soon, the audience started following Rarity’s example, and soon enough they were all applauding and cheering for Fluttershy. Just what is Rarity is doing? Wait a minute, I get it!

“I think Rarity is trying to make the crowd more exciting so that both Carrie and Fluttershy will have stage fright!” I exclaimed, realizing Rarity’s plan.

“What?!” Mason asked in shock.

“Quick, we need to stop this!” Kodi reminded us, which we nodded and headed straight for Rarity.





Once the crowd finished their cheer, we went over to Rarity.

“Rarity, what do you think you’re doing?!” Mason asked. “Just because you’re jealous of my sister and Fluttershy, doesn’t mean that-”

“What are you talking about, Mason?” Rarity asked, raising a brow before she said “I was just encouraging the crowd to increase their stardom.” This caused me, Kodi, and Mason to raise brows.

“What?” We all asked.

“Well...If Fluttershy is destined for stardom, it is wrong of me to try and ruin it.” Rarity sighed as we made our way towards the backstage.

“So wait...you were doing this for Carrie and Flutters?” I asked.

“Well of course.” Rarity nodded. “However, jealous I might be, my friendship with Mason’s sister and Fluttershy is more important, which is why I must be certain she isn’t upset that modelling upset.”

“Well even so, we need to go and find Fluttershy and Carrie.” I told her. “They should be at the showroom, let’s go!” We all nodded and headed straight for the showroom, but while running, we apparently encountered Twilight.

“Twilight, what are you doing here?” Kodi asked.

“I have to come and stop this show and try to get Rarity, Carrie, and Fluttershy to make amends with each other!” Twilight explained.
“Looks like we have the same goal in mine.” Mason replied, much to Twilight’s surprise.

“There’s no time Twilight, let’s go!” I exclaimed as we finally arrived to the room. Once inside, we saw both Carrie and Flutters, who were surprised to see us.

“Fluttershy, Carrie, are you alright?”  I asked in worried.

“W-we’re great! We’re super famous fashion models, why wouldn’t we be great?” Fluttershy fored a smile.

“Yeah, what she said.” Carrie smiled nervously at well.

“Carrie…” Mason raised his voice, looking at his sister with a raised brow.

“U-umm….” Carrie shifted nervously at her brother and just kept smiling nervously.

“Out there on the runway.” Rarity spoke up. “Everyone turning on you, and...it’s so awful, Fluttershy and Carrie, I...I wanted them to!”

“You did?!” Fluttershy gasped. Me and Mason looked at each other and decided that enough is enough.

“Guys, this has to stop!” I yelled. “Rarity! Fluttershy and Carrie don’t like being models, in fact she hates it!”

“Fluttershy and Carrie!” Mason yelled. “Rarity’s been jealous of you two ever since that stupid Photo Finish passed her over to you too! She’s the one who wants all the attention you’re getting!” Everypony gasped and went silent for a few moments. I rubbed my head bashfully with a sweat-drop, oh boy, did I said it too soon?

“B-but Rarity…” Carrie spoke up from the awkward silence. “Why didn’t you tell us that you were jealous?”

“It’s true….” Rarity sighed. “I was jealous that Photo Finish chose you two and not me, and that you two were getting all of the attention! I even hoped you would blunder and the both of your modelling would be over but...I thought you two loved modelling! Why didn’t you say anything?!”

“Love?” Fluttershy gaped. “Oh Rarity, we hate being models!”

“Yeah, I mean, no offense…” Carrie agreed as she continued “All this attention, having our images everywhere, mobbed by fans!” She sighed. “We were afraid to quit that we would disappoint you for not…’shining all over Equestria’.”

“And I thought if I admitted how jealous I was of you two success, you’d think I was a terrible friend.” Rarity admitted.

“Well...glad that’s over.” Mason said as he walked over and gave his sister a hug. “More importantly, I’m just glad you’re okay sis!”

“Yeah, me too big brother.” Carrie hugged back her brother, happy to see him again. We all sighed happily to witness this brother-sister relationship.

“Well, I think we all learned a valuable lesson today, right?” Kodi asked, smiling happily.

“Yep, always be honest and everything will turn out alright.” I said, with Twilight nodding in agreement.

“Ren’s right, girls.” Twilight added. “If you two had just come clean about how you felt with the situation, all this fuss and drama could’ve been avoided.”

“Yeah, and we would’ve told you this ourselves but you both made us promise not to say anything.” I said, which the girls sighed.

“I promise Fluttershy and Carrie, to never keep my feelings secret again.” Rarity promised.

“Me too!” Fluttershy nodded happily.

“Yeah!” Carrie nodded as well.

“I’m glad to hear that.” Mason agreed. Soon, they did the Pinkie Promise.

“Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” Mason, Carrie, Rarity, and Fluttershy did it and laughed, causing me, Kodiak, and Twilight to laugh alongside them. You know, I thought of Mason as some serious guy who only cared about himself and his little sister, but now he’s enjoying his time with us. I’m...glad to see him happy.

“You were brilliant, brilliant!” Annnd the moment was ruined as Photo Finish appeared out of nowhere with an exciting grin. “I’ve already got six photos shoots lined up for tomorrow alone!”

“I’m sorry, Photo Finish, but I won’t be making any of them.” Fluttershy declined.

“Yeah, we quit.” Carrie added, much to Photo Finish’s shock.

“What?!” She yelled in shock.

“You heard her? They quit.” Mason said, glaring at her. “End of story.”

“Yeah, come in everypony, let’s go.” I said as we began to leave and started laughing and headed our way to a place to celebrate...and relax.

“But...you...I...what just happen?” I heard Photo Finish asking that question to herself, still shocked to hear that Carrie and Fluttershy quitting. Show her! Ha!




Soon after that incident, we traveled to the spa and enjoyed our time. Carrie and Fluttershy were relaxing in the jacuzzi, Rarity in the seaweed wrap, me, Kodi, and Mason were getting our backs massaged, and Twilight was getting a bubble-bath.

“I said this once, but I’ll say it again. This is the life…” I sighed happily.

“Yeah…” Kodi added.

“Mm-hmm.” Mason agreed.

“What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.” Fluttershy commented.

“Isn’t it though?” Rarity added.

“Yeah, this is the best day ever!” Carrie exclaimed. “Besides, I’m so glad that we’re no longer models anymore.” Fluttershy nodded in agreement with that.

“That’s right, oh, by the way Carrie and Mason, are you guys heading to the Grand Galloping Gala?” Rarity asked, much to Mason and Carrie’s confusion.

“The Grand Galloping Gala?” Carrie asked.

“What in the world is that?” Mason asked.

“Its a big event that takes place in Canterlot, and its suppose to be some epic event Twilight and the others talked about.” I explained. “I have a ticket to it, but maybe Twilight and Spike can get you guys into it.”

“Are you really sure?” Mason asked.

“Of course, after all, we’re all friends.” I said, smiling happily at him. “We gotta stick together like glue, and never leave each other behind, no matter what.” I added, much to Mason’s surprise.

“Yeah, he has a point.” Kodi nodded. “I mean, Ren immediately accepted me as his friend, even when he became surprised that I can talk.”

“Really?” Mason asked, which I nodded happily. “Well, you’re a real idiot to befriend people, or ponies in this case, that easily. But...I guess I can accept you all, I guess.” I smiled happily at him to hear that.

“Yay! We get to go to the Grand Galloping Gala!” Carrie exclaimed happily.

“Yeah...hey Rarity.” Mason spoke up, glancing at Rarity. “I’m sorry I got angry at you. I was just...upset and angry that my sister was taken by that Photo Finish pony to be a model against her own free will.”

“It’s alright Mason, I forgive you.” Rarity sighed sadly. “It was my fault to begin with. I should have never have asked Fluttershy and your little sister to be models in the first place.”

“So I guess we all learn our lessons, huh?” Kodi asked with a smirk.

“Yeah.” I nodded before turning to Twilight. “Hey Twilight, do you think you can ask Celestia to get more tickets for them?”

“Way ahead of you Ren.” Twilight nodded in agreement. “After all, I was about to send my Friendship report to her.” Twilight cleared her throat and started her report “Dear Princess Celestia, being a good friend means being able to keep a secret. But you should never be afraid to share your true feelings with a good friend...did you get all that, Spike?”

“I’ll get to it!” Spike promised, but he was too bus waving a fan at Rarity. “But I’m kinda...a little busy right now.”

We all laughed and sighed happily as we got our royal treatment.

“Wonder what’s up with Spike? It’s like he’s in love with Rarity…” Kodi muttered.

“Oh you don’t know Kodiak...you just don’t know…” I told him as I let out a sigh. While I got my back massaged, I begin to think about Fluttershy. I was extremely worried about her, I don’t know why, but...why do I have this strange feeling in my heart?

To Be Continued
> Chapter 21 - Over A Barrel!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Wow, this is the first time we’ve ever gone...somewhere!”

“I know right, Kodi? We should thank Applejack for allowing us to come with her on her way to…” What was it again? I always forget whenever I hear that we’re going off to...somewhere.

“It’s called Appleloosa, Ren!” Applejack reminded me.

“Oh right, that place!” I snapped my fingers, the girls, Spike, Mason, and Carrie chuckled at me getting it right.

“I still don’t know why you invited us to this town, Applejack.” Mason said, in his meditating position while sitting on the passenger's’ seat.

“Well it wouldn’t be nice to leave my best friends behind on this trip to go and meet up with my cousin and the rest of the town.” Applejack said, as we all smiled happily at her.

“Ahh, that’s nice.” Kodi said, wagging his tail happily while looking out the window in excitement.

“Well that and also get some help on getting Bloomberg into the car.” Applejack added.

“Oh, you mean that tree in the back car?” Carrie asked.

“Yep, that’s the one.” Applejack nodded.

“Well, like Ren said, it was thoughtful of you for inviting us on this trip, Applejack.” Twilight said smiling. Suddenly, we heard a slamming sound as we turned to see Rarity storming in from the back, groaning in frustration.

“What’s wrong, Rarity?” Carrie asked worriedly.

“That Applejack is what!” Rarity exclaimed. “The nerve of her to book the private sleeping car for a tree! I wanted that car!”

“And I wanted peace and quiet, and it seems like we can’t get what we want.” Mason said, letting out a sigh as he turned to Rarity. “Besides, Applejack must take care of that tree in full health, she’s trying to protect nature.”

“Mason’s right, Rares.” I shrugged with a smile. “Applejack cares about Bloomberg and wants him to stay healthy.”

“Fine…” Rarity groaned as she sat next to Pinkie and Fluttershy.

“So Applejack, about Bloomberg, you planted that tree, right?” Twilight asked.

“Uh-huh!” Pinkie nodded happily, answering Twilight’s question. “Applejack planted and raised Bloomberg all by herself!”

“Ugh! She treats it as though it were her child!” Rarity pouted.

“Ahh come on Rares, everyone has things that they care for.” I replied. “I mean, I love my video games and consoles and my art, and you love your mane and other fashion outfits.” Rarity widened their eyes in realization at what I said.

“Touche…” Rarity muttered.

“Well I can’t wait to get there…” Rainbow spoke up, relaxing on her seat. “It’s kinda awesome that we’re gonna visit a newly started town that’s just getting on its own hooves!”

“Yes, I’m quite surprise that a bunch of ponies were able to build a town that quickly.” Mason said, looking at the desert with a soft smile. His two pet squirrels, Nate and Maddy, were sitting on his head, gazing at the desert.

“I know right? They’re good!” Kodi nodded, as he sat on my lap. He spotted Nate and Maddy and waved at them, who slowly waved back at him in nervousness. Well, it’s a progress between those three animals.

“Well the Settler ponies at Appleloosa are Earth Ponies, Kodiak.” Twilight said.

“Earth Ponies?” Carrie asked.

“Well that’s what ponies like Applejack and Pinkie Pie are called.” I replied before saying “Although, after seeing all of the randomness Pinkie did, I’m not even sure if she even is an earth pony.”

“Of course I am silly Rennie!” Pinkie exclaimed with a big grin on her face. Why do I have a feeling something weird is about to happen?

“Oh, I get it.” Carrie said, understanding what I meant.

“That’s right Carrie, and Rarity and I are Unicorns.” Twilight explained. “While Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy are Pegasi, or Pegasus in their case.”

“Huh, so this world is filled with mythical creatures, with the exception of Earth Ponies no less.” Mason said, rubbing his chin in deep thought.

“Oh really? There are earth ponies back on your world?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Well yeah.” I nodded. “But we just called them ponies and...uh…” Should I just tell them or…

“Ulike your world, ponies don’t talk and act like normal animals.” Mason said bluntly, much to the girls and Spike’s surprise. Well he didn’t have to say it like that.

“My oh my, you three live in a weird world, no offense.” Rarity said, smiling nervously.

“None taken.” I shrugged.

“So wait, can dogs talk in your world like me?” Kodi asked, getting excited.

“Unfortunately, no.” Mason said, much to Kodi’s disappointment. “But it would be nice if that happen so that I can be one with nature more.”

“Oh, that’s nice.” Fluttershy commented.

“So how long till we get to Appleloosa?” Carrie asked, letting out a big yawn.

“Till tomorrow, so don’t worry Carrie.” Applejack said, smiling softly towards her.

“Well, it would be nice to visit the place.” Twilight said. “I’m planning a full documentary of the place and send it to Princess Celestia.”

“Which will be boring no less..” Spike muttered, which made Twilight glare at him.

“Well I hope Appleloosa will be an awesome trip.” I said, taking my DBZ Manga out of my sweater pocket and started reading the Garlic Jr. Arc. I guess I could entertain myself while reading my manga.

“You know, sometimes I’ll never understand why you love reading those comic books, Ren.” Twilight replied, raising a brow at me. “Why not read a book?

“It’s not a comic book, it’s a Manga! Totally different thing!” I exclaimed.

“What’s the difference?” Rainbow shrugged. “I mean, don’t they show the same graphic pictures and have awesome stuff on it?”

“She has a good point, Ren.” Kodi said, causing me to grumble in anger. Someday, I’m going to have to show them why Mangas are better than comic books.



Before long, night time came and the moon started to rise, well more like, Princess Luna raising the moon. We were in the sleeping cars as we each got into our own bunks. Haven’t slept on a bunk bed since me and my family went a trip to Florida, which they weren’t kidding that the heat there was crazy intense there. I was laying on the top bunk since I called that I’m sleeping on the bunk bed before anypony could say so. The girls were having a conversation while Mason went to sleep.

“Do you guys mind? I was up early fire-roasting those snacks you’re all eating, and I’m pooped!” Spike exclaimed, trying to get some sleep.

“Um...about that, I think some of my popcorn kernels didn’t get popped.” Carrie replied, holding her bag of popcorn in front of Spike.

“Ugh, fine..” Spike let out a burst of flame, which caused Carrie to duck, but it burned the bag of popcorn, with one single kernel popping.

“Happy?! Then good night.” Spike snapped as he pulled his blanket over his head.

“Maybe we should all hit the sack.” Twilight suggested. “Tomorrow’s gonna be busy for us all!”

“Aww!” We all sigh to hear that.

“Do we have to?” I asked, not even a little bit tired.

“Sometimes Ren, I’ll never understand that childish personality of yours.” Mason spoke up, laying on his bed.

“Ain’t that the truth?” Rainbow rolled her eyes, causing me to glare at her. Soon, Twilight used her magic to turn the lamp off, making us go to sleep. Oh well, I guess we’ll continue our conversation tomorrow. As soon as I closed my eyes...

“Psst, Pinkie Pie, are you asleep yet?” Huh? I opened my eyes to hear Rainbow, Carrie, and Pinkie starting a conversation as Dash brought up a lit candle to where Pinkie and Carrie’s bed was.

“No, are you asleep, yet?” I overheard Pinkie whispered.

“If I were sleeping, how could I have asked you if you were asleep?”

“Oh yeah! Heh-ha!”

“When we get to Appleloosa, do you think we’ll have to carry that big, heavy tree all the way to the orchard?”

“What tree, you mean Bloomburg?” I overheard Carrie asked.

“...No, Carrie, I meant Fluttershy.”

“Fluttershy isn’t a tree, silly!” I overheard Pinkie exclaimed.

“What’s up?” I asked, as Rainbow brought the lit candle close to my face.

“Rainbow Dash thinks Fluttershy’s a tree!” Pinkie answered.

“I do not think she’s a tree! I was just-”

“Did you say she was a tree?” I asked, raising a brow.

“No. Well...Yes. But not exactly-”

“But Fluttershy doesn’t even look a tree.” I heard Kodi said, waking up from his sleep.

“She’s not a tree, Dashy!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“I’d like to be a tree…” I looked down to see Fluttershy waking up, coming to our conversation.

“Oh for pete’s sake!” Spike exclaimed as he got up, grabbed a pillow, and jumped off the bed. He walked to the cart where the apple tree was in and slammed the door shut. Jeez, he kinda acts like my brother sometimes whenever he doesn’t get his sleep.

“Well that was kind of huffy…” I said, smiling at what happen to Spike.

“Huffy the magic dragon!” Fluttershy added, chuckling a bit, causing us all to chuckle as well. You know, I feel like that’s a reference to something, but where did I heard that?

“Would you all be QUIET...NOW!” We turned around to see Rarity, but...holy cow! We all screamed at the sight of Rarity, who was wearing a facial mask. Rainbow quickly blew the candle off, covering us all in darkness as we rushed back into our beds and went to sleep. I think I’m gonna have nightmares for weeks after seeing that face.




Mason’s Dream
I have to keep running before they caught us. I was seen running away from the crowd with Carrie in my hands.

“Get back here!” I glanced back to see the angry mob coming after us. I looked around until I saw an alleyway. This could be our way out! We took a turn and avoided the angry mob as I saw a metal fence in the way. Narrowing my eyes, I wall jumped over the walls, jumping over the metal fence as I put my sister down and tried to catch my breath.

“Mason...I’m scared.” I saw my sister darkened her face before looking at me, tears coming out. “Why...Why is everyone chasing after us?”

“It’s because we were chosen sis.” I replied, bending down to her height and grabbing her shoulders. “I’m sorry, but we weren’t picked by chance, but because we’re the only ones that have the benefit to survive from this...virus.”

“B-but...I’m scared. What about her?” Carrie asked sadly. I darkened my face and said “I’m sure she’s okay, I promise. She wouldn’t see us like this because of this incident, she and the others would want us to keep moving forward and not look back.”

“B-but she…” Carrie started crying and hugged me, letting out all of her tears. I closed my eyes and let out tears as well before hugging her back. “I miss her!”

“Don’t worry, you’ll be okay, I promise that I’ll protect you.” I assured, cheering her up a little. Unfortunately, our moment was ruined as a voiced boomed at us.

“There they are! Get them!” We turned around to see the same angry mob running towards the alley as they tried to climb up the metal fence.

“We need to go sis! Come on!” I said, as I carried her on my back and just kept running...and running...running...running..….




Dream Ended
“GAH!” I screamed, sweating badly. Phew, that was all a dream, nothing more. Huh? What’s that in my eye? I slowly touched my eye, founding a tear on it. Was I crying in my sleep? Was it from...that dream? I then looked at my sister up top my bunk, who was still sleeping peacefully with my two pet squirrels sleeping next to her. I let out a sigh of relief to see that she was alright. But still...what was that all about? Was it...some kind of memory?

Suddenly, I heard someone yawning as I looked to see Ren and Kodiak waking up.

“Oh hey Mason, what’s up?” Ren asked, smiling softly at me.

“I-I’m doing alright, just woke up, that’s all.” I replied, glancing away as I got up and wrapped my scarf around my neck again.

“I wonder...if we’re already in Appleloosa by now?” Kodi asked, stretching his back as Ren took off his pajamas and put his clothes on. He wore his black multi cargo pants on, his red and white shoes, and his pac-man t-shirt on.

“I guess so, but it seems that we sorta woke up early before the girls got up.” Ren replied, noticing the girls sleeping peacefully.

“Yeah…” I nodded in agreement as I got up and took off my pajamas and put my clowns back on. I put on my gray tank top on, before putting on my white sweater on, covering my tank top. I then put my black sweats and my brown sandals. “You know, that’s the first time I’m seeing you without your sweater.” I said, raising a brow.

“Well, since we’re out in the desert, I didn’t want to be too hot once we get to Appleloosa to deliver Bloomberg.” Ren replied with a smile.

“I guess so…” Well, I guess he’s right about that. Don’t want anybody wants to get a heat stroke, if that’s even possible for ponies here in this world. “So what now?”

“I guess we’ll have to wait till our friends wake up…” Ren shrugged. “But then again, we can chat a little.”

“Well, you guys do that…” Kodi let out a yawn before saying “I’m going back to sleep. Wake me up when we get to Appleloosa.” Kodi went back to sleep, sleeping on Ren’s pillow.

“Alright, get some good rest Kodi.” Ren said, rubbing his back a little before turning to me. “So Mason, what something to eat?”

“No thank you, I’m good.” I shook my head, much to Ren’s dismay.

“Okay, well I guess I could go. I did managed to get 50 bits the other day after painting a portrait to the Ponyville School.” Ren said, showing me the bits he earned.

“I see...I should probably look for a job as well while I’m here.” I replied, crossing my arms in thought. Actually… “Hey Ren, I need to ask you something.”

“Yeah, what is it, Mason?” Ren asked.

“Well...I had this weird dream, and I think it’s a memory of my past, but I was running away from this angry mob with my sister, and I just don’t why they were chasing us…” This caused Ren to widened his eyes to shock to hear that.

“So wait, you had that dream too?” Ren asked, much to my confusion until it hit me.

“Wait, so you were chased by an angry mob in your dreams too?” I asked, wanting to get to the bottom of this mystery.

“Well yeah, it was right before you and your sister woke up from those chambers back at the home-shop, but apparently, I was chased by an angry mob and tried to outrun until two groups of them cornered me on a bridge, and...that’s all I could remember.”  Ren explained with a sigh, causing me to widened my eyes a little.

“I see…So you had that dream as well.” I responded, rubbing my chin in thought. He had that dream as well? That can’t be a coincidence, right?

“Well I haven’t been thinking about that dream lately, but after hearing this from you...I’m quite shocked. But what could it mean?” Ren asked, rubbing his head.

“Wish I knew…” I sighed. Well, we’re not gonna solve our memory loss like this. There has to be a way…

“Well, why not go and eat something for breakfast? It sometimes help me think.” Ren offered. I was about to decline until my stomach rumbled, causing me to blush a little.

“Yeah, okay…” I muttered as Ren got down as we headed to the next cart to the diner. I just hope that dream wasn’t really, because the mention of my master...I just hope nothing happened to him.



Ren’s POV
Oh, it taste so good. Wow, for food that the ponies eat here in Equestria it’s so good! Who knew hayburger taste so good! I mean, sure it has hay, but wow! It’s so delicious!

“I’m surprise that the food in this world are almost good.” Mason said, taking a bite of his hay salad.

“I know right?” I nodded in agreement. “I give the chef five out of five stars.” Mason rolled his eyes at what I said. Hey, it’s the truth! Who knew hay would taste so good here in this world?

“I guess but…” Mason looked at me with a serious look. “Do you even think why we were in this world in the first place? I mean, why we were in that spaceship?” Oh right, those are very good questions. “Haven’t you been thinking about that lately?”

“Of course I have.” I nodded. “I just wasn’t thinking about it much, that’s all.” I replied, rubbing my head bashfully.

“Oh really? What do you think got us into that spaceship and into this world?” Mason asked.

“Hmm...ali-”

“Don’t say aliens because that’s stupid.” Mason replied, glaring at me.

“But that’s the only thing I could think of.” I replied with a shrug and sheepish smile.

“Okay, but still...How do you explain these memories of us running away from an angry mob then?” Mason asked, raising a brow at me.

“Oh...right.” I sweat-dropped upon realizing that. Why was I being chased? I mean, I was bullied a lot by kids in elementary and middle school due to my naivety, but I did gained a few friends during my freshman year. But still, to be chased by a group of angry mob, just what-

BOW!

“WAH!” I fell off my chair, as I slowly got up, rubbing my head. “OW...What just happen?”

“I don’t know…” Mason said, until he noticed something out on the windows. “Buffaloes?” Wait, did he just say buffaloes? I got up and gaze out the window. Whoa...Turns out it was Buffaloes, a lot of them. I took a closer look and saw that they were wearing feather hats Indian wear. Sorry, I kinda don’t know what they’re called.

“What are a bunch of buffaloes are doing?” I wondered. “And why are they’re getting so close?” I asked, feeling quite worried.

“Something’s up, we need to get to the girls, Kodiak, and Carrie!” Mason replied, which I nodded in agreement. We rushed towards back to our cart, but once we did, we saw the girls and Kodiak gazing out the window.

“Girls? Kodi?” I called them, gaining their attention.

“Ren, where in tarnation have you and Mason been?” Applejack asked.

“We were eating breakfast and discussing some things, but we felt the impact and saw what’s happening.” Mason explained before asking “Do you girls know anything about this?”

“No, we were just confused as you.” Twilight replied.

“Hey everyone, look!” Kodi exclaimed as he looked at the window with his tail wagging excitedly. We looked out the window to see the buffaloes piling up each other.

“Great, now what are they doing?” Mason asked.

“I know! I know! They’re doing tricks!” Pinkie answered, getting a sweat-dropped from me and a blank expression from Mason. Suddenly, I saw a smaller buffalo jumping onto the other buffaloes one by one.

“Ooh! Ooh! Ooh! Now do a backflip!” Pinkie exclaimed, but the small buffalo instead jumped over to the top of the train.

“Or...just jump?” Kodi asked, raising a brow. We then started to hear some hooves stomping from up the ceiling.

“Something’s up, and it’s no act!” Rainbow exclaimed as she rushed out of the cart to go and confront the buffalo.

“This isn’t good…” I muttered as I grabbed my Hacking Gun. Huh, its a good thing that I brought it with me in case something happens because almost anything bad happens.

“Wait...where’s Carrie?” Mason asked, seeing her not around the bed cart.

“Applejack asked her to go check up on Bloomberg and Spike.” Twilight explained, much to Mason’s shock.

“What?!” Mason exclaimed as he raced towards out of the cart.

“M-Mason!” I exclaimed, trying to get to him until we felt another tremor. “What was that now?!”

“Oh no, they got Bloomberg!” Applejack exclaimed. What?! I looked out the window to see the private car about to be taken away by the Buffaloes.

“Oh crap-baskets!” I exclaimed as I ran out of the cart!

“Ren wait!” Fluttershy called.

“Can’t Flutters, I gotta go save Spike, Mason, and Carrie!” I replied, running to the private car!

“Wait for me Ren!” Kodi exclaimed, running after me. Me and Kodi arrived to the private cart, with Mason and Carrie trying to wake up Spike.

“Come on Spike, wake up please!” Carrie asked worriedly. Luckily, with one more shake, Spike woke up slowly.

“W-what the? Ren? Mason? Carrie? Kodiak? What are you four doing here?” Spike asked, rubbing his eyes.

“We need to go now!” Mason exclaimed, much to Spike’s confusion.

“W-what? Why?”

“There’s no time Spike!” I replied with a worried expression. “We gotta-” Suddenly, another tremor hit, causing all of us to fall off.

“Okay, what now?” Mason asked, getting up. The cart then began heading the other direction.

“Wait, why is the cart moving backwards?” Kodi asked. Carrie noticed a window nearby and looked over, before she widened her eyes in shock.

“Umm...guys, we’re in deep trouble.” Carrie said, much to our confusion. We walked over to the window and saw that the train continued moving forward while the train car we were in was moving backward.

“Oh crap-baskets.” I muttered.

“Heeeeelp!” Spike cried, banging on the window. “What are we gonna do?! We’re done for!”

“Calm down Spike, I’m sure we can find a way out of here.” I assured until the train car came to a halt, causing us to fall over again.

“Okay, can we stop doing that?!” Kodi exclaimed. Yeah, Kodi has a point, this is getting annoying and ridiculous! Suddenly, the door was thrown opened, revealing a horde of buffalo staring at us.

“Um...Hi?” I asked, waving slowly at them until they tilted the cart, causing us to fall off. I fell on my stomach, while the others landed on top of me. “Well...should’ve seen that coming.”

“Tell me about that…” Kodi muttered in agreement as everyone got off of me and widened their eyes. Wonder why-Oh...right, the buffaloes. Dang it. They quickly surrounded us as Carrie held onto her brother, scared on what they’re about to do to us. I quickly grabbed my Hacking Gun and pointed towards the Buffalo in front of me.

“You better stay back!” I exclaimed as the Buffalo glared at us until one of them shouted “Get them!” They charged towards us as Mason took out his bamboo stick, Kodi growling at them, and me clenching on the Megaphone Hacking Gun. Okay, you asked it!

“Wait! STOP!” Spike shouted loudly, and once he did, the buffaloes immediately ceased and stared at him with widened eyes. They then instantly bowed in front of him, making him and the rest of us surprised to see this.

“What the heck?” I asked in surprise.

“Uh...Okay? What’s going on?” Spike asked, looking at the buffaloes.”

“We honor dragons very much.” One of them stated. This caused Spike to form a grin on his face. Oh no, I’ve seen that kind of grin before. He’s gonna go mad with power.

“Well then...My name is Spike!” Spike introduced himself.

“So wait, they honor dragons?” Carrie asked curiously.

“I see, well it makes sense since dragons are known as mythical creatures.” Mason explained as the buffaloes looked at us.

“What would you like us to do with these...creatures?” The buffaloes asked Spike. Please don’t ram us, please don’t ram us, please don’t ram us!

“First of all, they’re called humans, second of all, leave them alone, of course! They’re with me!” Spike exclaimed, which they nodded and backed away from us.

“Huh...that was easy.” Kodi said, with widened eyes. Tell me about it. Oh well, I guess that’s it. I put away my Hacking Gun since now they seem to have calm down.

“What is your other wish, Spike?” They asked, continuing to bow.

“Wow, they weren’t kidding that they honor dragons like you, Spike.” I said, smiling happily at them.

“I know right?” Spike nodded in agreement. Suddenly, we heard a familiar voice from a distance.

“Oh my gosh, so am I!” Wait, that voice?...

“Hey, didn't that sound like Pinkie?” Carrie asked, recognizing that cheery voice anyway.

“Oh no…” Mason muttered, seeing the buffaloes growling angrily as they charged towards where the noise was coming from.

“Oh no, they’re going after Pinkie!” Kodi exclaimed.

“And the more of us there are out here…” Wait, that’s not Pinkie. It’s…

“Rainbow Dash?!” I yelled in shock. What are they doing here?!

“The more chances of us getting…” The buffaloes all grouped around Rainbow, who was holding Pinkie. They noticed the buffaloes surrounding them as Dash made a worried look on her face. “Caught.” The buffaloes snorted, pawing the ground with their hooves, showing they were to ready to charge.

“Spike, tell them to stop!” I said, not wanting to see my friends get beaten up by the buffaloes.

“Got it!” Spike nodded before yelling “Hold it! Hold it!” The buffaloes heard him as they stopped and moved out of the way, letting us past through.

“Spike?! Ren?! Kodiak? Mason?! And Carrie?!” Rainbow and Pinkie exclaimed in unison.

“Hey guys.” I waved to them.

“Hey no worries, I know those guys. They’re cool.” Spike addressed to the buffaloes.

“If you say so, Spike.” One of the buffalo, who hoof-bumped with the little dragon. Wow, they seriously do honor dragons. “Catch ya later, bro.” I’m...sorta jealous that Spike gets all the glory. Soon, the buffaloes ran off as we turned to the two ponies.

“Uh...what just happened?” Rainbow asked.

“Let’s just say these buffaloes seems to honor dragons and seems to have hatred towards ponies for some reason.” Mason explained, crossing his arms.

“Yeah, so anyway, what are you two doing here?” Kodi asked.

“And where are the others?” Carrie added.

“Well after I tried confronting the buffalo that jumped onto the top of the cart, I got hit by a pole and went out like a light.” Rainbow explained, causing me and Kodi to wince to hear that.

“Ooh, that’s gotta hurt.” Kodi said, with me nodding in agreement.

“Anyway, after I woke up, I saw the Buffaloes running off with the private car, I followed after them and just when I was about to make a move, Pinkie suddenly appeared out of nowhere and wanted to help.” Rainbow said, glaring at Pinkie.

“Yeah, I wanted to go and help Dashy to go and save Bloomberg! He’s very important to Applejack!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“But wait a minute, how did you get out of the train car?” Mason asked, raising a brow. “We weren’t gone for like 5 minutes or so.”

“Ooh, that’s a secret.” Pinkie waved it off, causing Mason to be more confused.

“Ehh, don’t bother Mason, even I’m confused with her randomness, but I get used to it.” I shrugged with a sheepish smile before turning to the girls. “Well it’s good to see that you girls are here to help.”

“Anytime Ren!” Rainbow nodded.

“That’s what friends do, Rennie!” Pinkie immediately hugged me, much to my surprise.

“Hey guys, where are the buffaloes going?” Carrie asked, seeing that the buffaloes are going somewhere.

“Let’s follow them and see where they’re going.” Mason suggested before making a serious expression. “Then we can find out what’s going on and why they attacked the train.” We all nodded and began following after them.



Later
We finally arrived to their camp, and I have to say, it look pretty nice, and it took about a half an hour to arrive here.

Anyway, Spike arrived earlier than us since the buffaloes offered their aid by letting him ride on their backs. Spike led us towards a campfire as we sat down along with the other buffaloes.

Mason, Carrie, and I were looking around their camp and became impressed on how they appreciate Indian culture, well in their world.

“Wow, I’m impressed by how they live out here in the desert like the ancient indian civilizations back in our world.” Mason said, getting Dash and Pinkie’s attention.

“Oh really? What are they like?!” Pinkie asked excitedly.

“Well, there are a few indian tribes I only heard about around our world but they’re not like them from our era of the world.” Mason explained, much to Pinkie’s confusion.

“In other words, indians here in Equestria are different from Earth, and their time eras are different. They take on the past while ours are in the future.” I specified for her. But you know, I’m sorta confused on which time era is Equestria is in.

“Ooooh, now I get it!” Pinkie said, letting out her tongue a little.

“You do?” Kodi asked.

“Nope!” Pinkie shook her head, causing us to sweat-dropped.

“Well besides that, tell us what happened Spike!” Rainbow demanded.

“Oh yeah!” Spike remembered and started to explain what happened. “Well you see...after we were separated from you guys, the buffalo stopped and found us. They got Ren, Kodi, Mason, and Carrie first, but I stopped them!” Spike said, clearing his throat and brought out his chest like he was a superhero. Me and Kodi playfully rolled our eyes while Mason gave out a deadpan expression and Carrie became confused on that statement.

“Wait, but you didn’t-”

“Don’t bother sis, he won’t listen.” Mason shook his head while Carrie nodded in agreement.

“Anyways, seems they took us by mistake. And they felt awful about it, too, poor guys.” Spike said, looking at the buffaloes before continuing “Fortunately, they totally respect dragons, so they treat me like an honored guest.” Spike snapped his fingers, having the buffaloes bring some green goop to us. “Still don’t like ponies much and they seemed to be pretty weirded out with Ren, Mason, and Carrie since they’re humans. But you’re with me, so it’s cool.”

“Yeah, thanks Spike!” Carrie thanked him, much to Spike’s embarrassment. Soon, the buffaloes handed us some food, which consist of green goo on the bowl.

“Uhh…” I said, raising a brow and sweat-dropped upon seeing the food. I pushed the bowl away while Kodi let his tongue out, implying that he didn’t like it either.

“Thanks for the food, but I think I’m good.” Mason said, not interested in it as well.

“Y-yeah, me too.” Carrie added, pushing the bowl aside. Even Dash push the bowl away in disgust.

“Anyway…” Rainbow started. “I still don’t trust them. I say we turn tail and bail while we still-” Suddenly, we heard some garbling and munching sound as we turned to see Pinkie as she was eating the goop. She just literally began her face off on the bowl. Once she removed the bowl out of her face, she had mush all over her face and even mane, causing me and Kodi to almost puke out what we just had for breakfast.

“Before we finish eating?!” Pinkie asked as both Dash and Mason made a face of disgust and frustration. “Are you loco in the cocoa?!”

“Umm...Pinkie? I think you need stop eating that stuff.” I said, feeling quite disgusted at her keep eating that grub.

“Why’s that Rennie? I think it taste alright to me!” Pinkie replied with a smile on her face before eating the food again, causing my face to turn green and tried to hold in my puke.

“I think I’m gonna be sick…” Kodi muttered, trying so hard to hold it in. Suddenly, a smaller buffalo came over and brought Spike a bowl of gems.

“Can I please have more that mushy stuff, whatever it was?” Pinkie asked her.

“Certainly.” A young buffalo answered with a nod. Wait, haven’t I’ve seen her before? “And, Mr. Spike, you like gemstones, yes?”

“Ooh, turquoise!” Spike said, licking his lips and gobbled them up.

“Hey Spike, who’s your new friend?” Carrie asked curiously.

“Oh, this here’s Little Strongheart! And these are my friends, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Mason, Ren, Kodiak, and Carrie.” Spike introduced us to her little calf friend. I looked at her for a while and became quite confused with her. I know I’ve seen her before.

“Wait a minute...you!” Rainbow pointed her hoof angrily at Little Strongheart.

“You?!” Little Strongheart gasped. Wait a minute, I-I do know her!

“H-hey, you’re that small buffalo that jumped onto the top of the train!” I exclaimed in shock.

“What?!” Mason asked in shock before glaring at her angrily. “Then we are leaving then!” Mason grabbed his sister’s hand and began leaving, with Rainbow Dash following them as she was dragging Pinkie by the tail.

“Yeah Mason, we are so outta here!” Rainbow agreed.

“W-wait! Please accept my apologies for what happened on the train, we didn’t mean for anyone to be hurt!” Little Strongheart explained.

“Yeah, right.” Rainbow rolled her eyes at her.

“Wait, you didn’t?” I asked, confused about this. “But then why attack the tree and stole the private car?”

“Well, we only wanted the tree.” Little Strongheart explained. “The settler ponies have overtaken the land and have planted an orchard all over it! Because of their thoughtlessness, we can no longer run over our traditional stampeding grounds…”

“Huh?” We all asked.

“For realsies?” Kodi asked in shock.

“For…’realsies’.” Little Strongheart nodded.

“Settler ponies? As in...the ponies from Appleloosa?” I asked, which Little Strongheart nodded again.

“But...I don’t get it. Why would they plant the traditional stampeding grounds with their trees in the first place?” Carrie asked.

“Well, I think it’s time they met Chief Thunderhooves.” Spike suggested. Soon, both Spike and Little Strongheart took us to meet with the chief. Soon, every buffalo gathered around the campfire, and one more joined in.

“Whoa…” I muttered in amazement. He’s gotta be the biggest buffalo I’ve ever seen, then again, I never seen one before. He wore markings on his cheeks and had a big feather hat on his head. This might be Chief Thunderhooves, and I can see why he’s called that.

“We have a long and winding stampeding trail we have run upon for many generations.” He began to explain about their stampeding grounds. “My father stampeded upon these grounds, and his father before him, and his father before him, and his father before him, and his father before him, and his father before him, and-”

Oh boy…

I looked back to see some of the buffaloes sleeping and getting drowsy. Even Carrie was sleeping on her brother’s arm while Kodi lay on my lap. I know I want to help them but this is gonna take forever.

“Ugh! We get it! Just move on already!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“Yes, excuse our rudeness Chief Thunderhooves, but we kinda get it on who stampeded in your traditional grounds.” Mason added, agreeing with Rainbow.

“Y-yes, sorry about that. I sorta have a habit of doing that.” Chief Thunderhooves said, blushing embarrassingly before he cleared his throat and continued his explanation. “Anyway, it is a sacred tradition to run the path every year. But this year, these...Settler ponies, these…” He snorted angrily, scaring Kodiak as he hid behind me. “Appleloosians!” He snorted more aggressively.

“Jeez, calm down.” I said, flinching from his angry expression. Little Strongheart walked over to the chief and placed a hoof on his nose.

“They planted apple trees all over it without asking our permission.” Little Strongheart finished the end of the story.

“Ooh, now I understand.” Carrie said, nodding sadly. Wow, now I get it. So that’s why they stole Bloomburg because they didn’t want anymore trees being planted on their stampeding grounds. I feel like the bad guy now…

“Well that’s not very nice. Right, Rainbow Dash?” Pinkie asked.

Rainbow sat down and crossed her forelegs and began thinking.

“The ponies refuse to move their trees!” Little Strongheart pleaded. “So we are stuck here and it is not fair!”

Spike turned to Dash with a nervous look and asked “Do you get it now, Rainbow Dash? They have a good reason to be-”

Rainbow suddenly flapped up and landed with a loud stamp of his hooves, causing the buffalo to gasp. She then made a determined look and smile as she said “I’ll say you have a good reason. I think it’s time we had a word with some apple-picking Appleloosians!” I smiled happily to hear that Rainbow will help them. You know what? Even I will!

“Pinkie and Dashie are  right! We have to help them!” Kodi agreed with them before looking at me. “You understand the situation, right Ren?”

I nodded and said “You’re right Kodi, we have to help them!” I then turned to Chief Thunderhooves. “Chief Thunderhooves, we understand how you feel, but I’m sure the Apploosians didn’t really mean it. We can negotiate them and tried to reason why they should move their trees away.”

“He’s right.” Mason got up, along with Carrie who made a determined look. “I understand how you all care about your traditional grounds and we’ll help you out.” Mason said with a nod and a serious look.

“That’s right Chief Thunderhooves, we can help out! We promise!” Carrie walked over and hugged Chief Thunderhooves, calming him down.

“Okay, but just remember that if they won’t take their trees away...we’ll have no choice but go to war with them.” We all widened our eyes to hear that from Chief Thunderhooves.

“Don’t worry Chief…” I took out my Hacking Gun with a smile on my face. “We promise that we’ll get your land back!”

“And how does that thing in your hand can help out?” The chief asked. I raised a brow and aimed it at a nearby rock.

“Break!” I shot ‘Break’ at the rock, destroying it, surprising all the buffaloes. They were all amazed by how much power there was inside of my Megaphone Hacking Gun.

“I see…” Chief Thunderhooves nodded, still surprised by my Hacking Gun before he turned to Little Strongheart. “Little Strongheart, take them to Appleloosa.”

“Yes Chief Thunderhooves.” She nodded before turning to us and said “Come along my friends. We’re going to Appleloosa.” We nodded and began our journey back to Appleloosa. While walking, Rainbow flew near me with an amused look.

“You know? You didn’t have to show-off your Hacking Gun to then.” Dash said, crossing her hooves.

“I know, I was just making a point.” I replied with a smile. “Besides, you would’ve done the same.”

“You got you there Dashie!” Pinkie nodded in agreement. Rainbow chuckled a bit and said “Yeah, yeah, I see your point.”

“So how far is Appleloosa?” Mason asked.

“Don’t worry, we should arrive till the afternoon, so you better be prepared.” Little Strongheart said as we began our journey through the wastelands. I feel like I’ve seen this from a movie, but where? Oh well, better not think about it. It’s time to stop a war between the Buffaloes and Appleloosians.



Later
Man, this is actually a pretty long walk. It’s a good thing that I’m not wearing my sweater because I might caught a heat stroke by now. Mason was carrying his sister on his back, and I had to put Kodiak on my head as he was getting tired out as well. Jeez, and Little Strongheart said that it’ll take till the afternoon to get to Appleloosa. I feel like it’s been weeks or something!

“Mason, I’m bored!” Carrie whined.

“Carrie, relax, we’ll be in Appleloosa in no time.” Mason assured.

“Well when we get there, can we have something to eat?”

“Don’t worry sis, I promise.” Now that’s a touching brother-sister relationship there.

“Are we there yet?” Kodi asked, his tongue almost running dry.

“We’ve only been gone like 20 minutes.” Little Strongheart said, much to our surprise.

“W-what? When? How?!” I asked in shock. I feel like such an idiot.

“I have no idea why, probably this intense heat wave caused us to think about how long we’ve been gone.” Mason suggested.

“Yeah, I guess so.” I nodded in agreement.

“Yeah, and this heat wave is causing me to see five ponies coming towards us.” Kodi pointed out. Wait what? I squinted my eyes a little to see five ponies are indeed coming towards us. Wait, this isn’t an illusion, it’s…

“Ren!” I was immediately tackled and hugged by both Twilight and Fluttershy.

“Twilight? Flutters?!” I asked in surprise.

“Ren, we’re so glad that you and the others are safe!” Fluttershy exclaimed, happy to see me again.

“Yeah, you scared us the moment we saw the private car being taken away by the buffaloes!” Twilight explained.

“I-I see but, can you get off of me?” I asked politely, much to their embarrassment.

“R-right! Sorry!” They both said in unison, quickly getting off of me.

“Wow...what caused them to jump on you like that?” Kodi asked, causing me to shrug. Soon, the others came over and being overjoyed to see us again. But I noticed one of the ponies was a male wearing cowboy vest and hat and had an Apple cutie-mark like Applejack, but it was just one instead of three.

“Hey, who’s this?” I asked, curious on who he was.

“Oh, this is my cousin Braeburn, he’s one of the settler ponies of Appleloosa.” Applejack introduced him to us. Braeburn suddenly came over and shook my hand too fast.

“Howdy, names Braeburn and you must be one of these ‘hoo-mans’ my cuz was talking about!” Braeburn said happily as he let go of my hand and continued “Well any friend of my cuz is a friend of mine! I welcome you all to….APPLELOOSA!”

“Is he always like this?” Mason whispered to Applejack, who chuckled nervously.

“Y-yeah, but you get used to it.” Applejack replied.

“The moment my cuz came to town and told me what happened! I volunteered to help and we were just about to head out to buffalo territory until we saw you guys and I’ll say!” Braeburn took a look at me, Mason, and Carrie with amazement. “For a bunch of new creatures, you’re three look amazing!”

“Um...thanks?” I asked, sweat-dropping.

“But besides the point…” Twilight spoke up. “How did you all escape from the buffalo?” She asked.

“Oh, we didn’t, they brought us back.” Carrie answered as she pointed towards Little Strongheart, as she was hiding behind a rock before coming out, rubbing her hoof on the ground shyly. Boy, she must feel nervous being around ponies...and humans of course.

“We promised the buffalo a chance to talk.” I added with a smile.

“Oh yeah?” Applejack eyed at Little Strongheart with suspicion. “About what?”

“We brought our new friend, Little Strongheart here.” Kodi pointed his paw to her, who waved slowly at us. “To explain to the Appleloosians why they should move the apples trees off the Buffalo’s land.” Kodi replied.

“T-that information would be quite help-”

“Huh, that’s weird. Because my cousin, Braeburn, here, wants to explain to the buffalo why they should let the apple trees stay.” Applejack interrupted Braeburn, giving a hard glare at Little Strongheart.

“That would be a useful thing to-” Little Strongheart tried to say something but Rainbow Dash interrupted.

“The land is theirs!” She exclaimed. “Brae, you just planted the trees without knowing that, honest mistake. All you have to do is move them.”

“W-well-” Braeburn tried to say something but Applejack interrupted him as well.

“They busted their rumps here! And now they’re supposed to bust their rumps again, just because buffalo won’t stampede somewhere else?!”

“Plant the trees somewhere else!” Rainbow insisted.

“Where?!” Applejack exclaimed. “It’s the only flatland around these parts!”

“The buffalo had it first!”

“The settler ponies need it to live!”

“Come on already, Applejack!”

“ENOUGH!” Mason shouted, causing all of us to flinch. Mason looked at them angrily as he said “Look here! Just shut up you two and let us try to solve this without violence!” Applejack and Rainbow looked at each other before scoffing at each other. “Now look, they both have good reasons, and we can solve this without any fighting. Look, I understand the buffaloes are angry that the settler ponies took over their traditional stampeding grounds, but we can solve this.”

“Traditions can change, livelihoods not so much!” Applejack exclaimed, causing Alex to glare at her darkly.

“Really? Imagine if your family change their traditions from being apple farmers into peach farmers, would you like that to happen?” Mason asked, causing Applejack to widened her eyes.

“...Point taken.” Applejack admitted.

“Good, now we need a plan.” Mason said, rubbing his chin.

“Ooh! Ooh! I know! I know!” Pinkie raised her hoof.

“What is it then, Pinkie?” I asked curiously.

“Get every buffalo and pony to come in town and I have a foolproof plan to bring them together!” Pinkie then rushed off, leaving us confused.

“Wonder what it is?” Kodi wondered.

“Don’t know, don’t care.” Mason said as he began walking off towards town.

“Do you really think it might work?” Carrie asked.

“Only one way to find out. Little Strongheart, go tell the buffaloes to come to Appleloosa.” I replied, with her nodded and running back to Buffalo territory.

“And I’ll go round up the other Appleloosians to the center of town.” Braeburn offered, with me nodding in agreement.

“Alright everyone, let’s head to Appleloosa and see if Pinkie’s plan works.” I said with a serious expression.

“But what if it doesn’t work?” Kodi asked worriedly.

“If not...then we’re in deep trouble..”



Huh, wonder what’s taking Pinkie so long? I mean, we got all the buffaloes and ponies of Appleloosa here, so what’s the holdup? I noticed Mason trying to meditate and calm down, but due to the stress between this argument, it’s frustrating him. Carrie was holding Kodi in her hands as she was quite worried as him as they wondered if Pinkie’s foolproof plan might work. Suddenly, music started to play as we saw the stage turned on with Pinkie poking her head out from the closed curtains, grinning happily. She winked at Spike, who was playing the piano, who gave a thumbs-up back to her.

Me, Mason, Carrie, Kodi, and the girls made bewildered expressions. Just what is Pinkie up to? Wait a minute, is she going to...sing?

The curtains soon shot open and revealed a closed clam in the middle of the stage. The clam slowly opened, revealing Pinkie Pie, who was lying down. She sat up and began her song. You know, I feel like this is something out of broadway, you know, those plays people performed in late night shows in New York? Nah, I’m pretty sure you all heard that, besides, I remembered that I used to went one back when I was in second grade...I think.


(Pinkie Pie):
We may be divided
But of you all, I beg


To remember we’re all hoofed
At the end of each leg

A couple of ponies softy picked her up from the clam and placed her on the stage.

(Pinkie Pie):
No matter what the issue,
Come from wherever you please
All this fighting gets you nothing
But hoof and mouth disease
Arguing’s not the way


Hey, come out and play!

She began bouncing off the stage. Wow, this song is quite catchy, but will it work?

(Pinkie Pie):
It’s a shiny, new day
So, what do you say?
You gotta share
You gotta care!
It’s the right thing to do!
You gotta share
You gotta care
And there’ll always be a way through!

Pinkie popped up between a pony with a gray mustache and Little Strongheart.

(Pinkie Pie):
Both our diets, I should mention
Are completely vegetarian!

Well...she ain’t wrong there. I mean, ponies here only eat fruits and vegetables and anything non-meat related.




(Pinkie Pie):
We all eat hay and oats
Why be at each other’s throat?
You gotta share
You gotta care!
It’s the right thing to do
And there’ll always be a way!
Thro-o-o-o-ugh!



After that, Pinkie finished her song with Carrie and Spike clapping for her, even Kodi let out a howl for her.

“All right Pinkie Pie!” Spike cheered.

“You were fantastic and awesome!” Carrie agreed.

“What a great song! You’re right on!” Kodi added. Well, it was a great and catchy song, but I then noticed both the pony with the gray mustache looking at Chief Thunderhooves. Uh oh, that must be the sheriff of this town, and they’re nodding to each other. Maybe it did work?

“It appears that Sheriff Silverstar and I have to come to...an agreement.” Chief Thunderhooves said.

“We have.” The sheriff agreed as we looked at them in joy. Maybe Pinkie’s song did work and they’re about to not have a war and be friends?

“...That was the worst performance we’ve ever seen!” The chief answered, causing us all to jaw-dropped upon hearing this. Okay maybe not. Dang it!

“Teh...Abso-tively!” The sheriff nodded in agreement.

“But...I like it.” Carrie said sadly. Chief Thunderhooves and Sheriff Silverstar ignored her as they glared at each other.

“The time for action...Hmh...Is upon us!” Chief Thunderhooves threatened. “Our stampede will start at high noon tomorrow. And if the orchard is still there, we’ll flatten it! And the whole town!”

“You can’t be serious.” Mason said, clenching his fist in anger.

“B-but, Chief!” Little Strongheart tried to stop him.

“And we Appleloosians say you’d better bring your best, cause we’ll be ready and waiting.” Sheriff Silverstar said, glaring back at Chief Thunderhooves.

“But, Sheriff…” Braeburn walked towards the sheriff, but the sheriff just ignored him. The buffaloes and ponies went their separate ways to prepare for the fight that was about to come.

“Oh...That wasn’t the message of my song at all…” Pinkie said sadly. I felt bad as I patted her on the back and said “Hey, at least you tried, now we gotta find a way to stop this fight before it’s too late!”

“Don’t worry, me, Carrie, Spike, Dash, Pinkie, and Little Strongheart will try to talk to Chief Thunderhooves and attempt to stop this war!” Mason said, which I nodded in agreement.

“Okay, good luck.” I replied as Mason and the others rushed towards the Buffaloes’ camp. I then turned over to Kodi, Fluttershy, Applejack, Twilight, Rarity and Braeburn. “Come on everypony, let’s get to the town quick!” They nodded and began following me. Maybe they’ll listen to us and try to be reasonable here.




Okay, I thought wrong.Apparently, everyone here was as stubborn as a mule, almost like Rainbow Dash and Applejack combined. We tried everything to make them talk, but they were focused on fighting off the buffaloes in order to protect their orchards AND town. They even boarded and shutted both their doors and windows. When we reached the orchards, they were bucking some apples, but for defensive uses. Twilight and I tried to get one of them to stop and talk, but all we received were irritated look.

“Why won’t anypony be rational and reasonable?” Twilight exclaimed.

“I know right? It’s like we’re talking to stubborn brick of walls.” I agreed with her. We returned back to town where they had just finished barricading the perimeter of the town with wood and nails. Dang it, why can’t these ponies just listen to us?!

“Sheriff, if we could only-” I looked over to see Applejack trying to talk to the sheriff but he just ignored her and just kept moving. Hmph, some sheriff he is. We walked towards the bakery, where we saw the ponies baking thousands of apple pies. Kodi started drooling and tried to eat one, but I stopped him.

“Kodi, now’s not the time!” I said sternly, causing Kodi to smile sheepishly at me.

Soon, we headed to town square, they raised a flag with their emblem planted proudly on it. Why does this feel so much similar to the Civil War right now?

“This is terrible!” Fluttershy exclaimed as she turned to me with worried and concern. “What are we gonna do, Ren?! There has to be something we can do to stop this!”

“I know, I know!” I exclaimed before frowning. “But...there’s nothing we can do since nopony will listen to us…” I said sadly.

“I guess we have no choice then…” Twilight said sadly as we watched everypony began barricading the town. “It looks like the settlers have already made their decision….” Yeah, it seems so Twilight. It seems so….




The Next Day
Soon, Me, Kodi,Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy were watching everything from behind the saloon as the settler ponies were glaring upwards the cliff, where all the buffaloes were on as they stared down the angry mob. I saw Mason, Carrie, Rainbow Dash, Spike, and Little Strongheart as well, and they seemed pretty concern and disappointed as well.

“This isn’t gonna end well, right?” Kodi asked me with concern.

“Nope, not at all, bud.” I shook my head. Oh well, I got no choice but be part of it. I was clenching on my Hacking Gun in both anxiety and concern. Come on Chief Thunderhooves, you’re better than this! Please, just don’t do this! Soon, the bell began ringing throughout Appleloosa. I looked up at the clock and became worried as the clock strike noon. As we waited for the the buffalo to strike, I saw Little Strongheart and Carrie placing a hoof and a hand on the chief’s face, calming him down and making him have doubts about this.

I smiled happily to see this, even Dash and Mason were surprised to see this. Maybe Chief Thunderhooves would regret doing this and-

“What do you say? You got to share! You gotta care! It’s the right thing to do!” What the heck?! I looked over to see Pinkie dancing around the middle of the tension. I saw Chief Thunderhooves grow angry on the cliff. Oh god no!

“Pinkie stop!” I called her over, but she ignored me. Chief Thunderhooves couldn’t take it anymore as he yelled “CHAAARGE!”. In that second, they began stampeding towards us. Pinkie Pie could only stare, stunned.

I quickly set the dial to ‘Move’ and pointed it towards Pinkie. “Move!” I shouted, shooting’ Move’ at it, surrounding her in a green aura, and pulled her towards me from the stampede. Once I put her down, we all glared at her.

“Pinkie, what the heck?!” I asked in anger.

“What? I was just singing my song to cheer up everyone.” Pinkie shrugged, as I face-palmed at her. And just we were about to have a happy ending.

“Ready...Aim...Fire!” The sheriff ordered as many ponies immediately bombarded the buffaloes with their apple pies. Okay, no offense, but I hardly called that a weapon, but hey, it must be tasty if they get hit in the face like that. Soon, some of the buffaloes were taken down by the pies. Holy crap, just what’s in those pies?!

Some ponies jumped from inside of their houses and climbed atop of the buffaloes, riding them like horses. Other buffaloes charged straight towards the stacks of hay, either knocking the pony out of the hay or diving straight towards an anvil, which by the way, must really hurt. Soon, the whole town came into a battlezone between the settler ponies and the Buffaloes.

“Ren!” I turned around to see Mason and Carrie running towards my side.

“Mason! Carrie! I thought you guys convinced the buffaloes to stop them from this fight!” I asked.

“We tried but they didn’t listen to us, we thought you and the others got the settler ponies to stop this fight?!” Mason replied.

“I tried but they wouldn’t listen to us!” I responded back to him, causing him to face-palm.

“What are we gonna do?!” Carrie asked.

“I don’t know.” I shook my head as I turned around to see how many buffaloes and ponies were fighting back. But then, something caught my eye as I saw Chief Thunderhooves charging towards the sheriff as he wasn’t moving a muscle, instead, he took his hat off and was just allowing him to knock him out.

“Ren, we gotta save the sheriff!” Kodi exclaimed in shock.

“I know, but what?!” I asked in shock until I noticed a nearby apple pie on the ground and quickly grabbed it.

As soon as Chief Thunderhooves hopped into the air to pummel the sheriff, I quickly threw the pie at the chief’s face, hitting him right in the face.

“Nooo!” He screamed as he landed on the ground, lying with the apple pie covered all over his face. The buffaloes and ponies saw this and became heartbroken and shocked to see what just happen. Many began mourning over their leader and some took their hats off in respect. I even saw Spike crying alongside them as well as he hugged Twilight tightly. Kodi and Carrie began crying as well to see what just happened to Chief Thunderhooves. I went pale and began crying.

“What have I done? I-I killed Chief Thunderhooves!” I cried as I fell to my knees and began crying.

“Umm...you kinda do realize that he’s not dead, but unconscious, right?” Mason asked, raising a brow but I ignored him as I kept crying.

“Wait, guys look!” I opened my eyes, still tears coming out as I saw Kodi pointed towards Chief Thunderhooves, as I saw him opened his eyes, tasting the apple pie mess that was on his fur.

“H-he’s alive!?” I asked in shock.

“You can’t kill someone by throwing apple pie, how stupid are you all?” Mason asked, shaking his head while putting his hand on the pinch of his nose. “Why do I even bother?”

“Yum!” Chief Thunderhooves quickly got up and became overjoyed after tasting the apple pie. “Hey, I’ve got a much better idea! We...will allow the apple orchard to stay in exchange for a share of its fruit, heh...Those...Delicious apple pies!” Soon, both the buffaloe and settlers cheered as they agreed to that negotiation. I wiped away my tears and sighed in relief. Well, it’s a good thing that he’s alive.



Soon, the settler ponies began chopping down the trees, creating a pathway for the buffaloes to use for their stampeding. The ponies used the apples to bake the apple pies they gave out to the buffalo as they passed through the path.

“I’d rather eat turquoise any day of the week.” Spike said as he chomped on the bowl of gems he had, which I don’t know where he got them. “Auhh…!”

“Bloomberg, this is your special day. Mam’s so proud of you!” Applejack announced as she finished up, planting her favorite apple tree in a isolated spot away from the other trees. Mason was with her as he smiled softly to see now that the settler ponies and the buffaloes finally have become friends.

Soon, the buffaloes began roaming back to their village after they finally settled their difference between the settler ponies. Little Strongheart noticed me and Rainbow Dash and waved over to us.

“Bye Little Strongheart, best wishes!” I called over to her.

“Best wishes as well, Ren!” Little Strongheart yelled before she and the rest of her buffalo friends went off somewhere in the desert.

“Dear Princess Celestia…” Speaking of which, sounds to me that Twilight has another friendship report for Celestia to hear. “Friendship is a wondrous and powerful thing. Even the worst of enemies can become friends. You need understanding and compromise. You’ve got to share. You’ve got to care.”

“Hey! That’s what I said!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“Sorry Pinkie…” I shrugged sheepishly. “But the way you put it, you kinda upset everypony here.”

“Hmph!” Pinkie turned her head away, upset. I chuckled a bit as I took something out of my pocket.

“Here Pinkie, maybe this will cheer you up.” I said, offering her a slice of apple pie, much to her joy. She gobbled it all up and became overjoyed as she hugged me immediately.

“Thanks Rennie! You’re the best friend a pony could ever asked!”

“Anytime...Pinkie!” I replied with a smile. Everyone soon laughed as Mason said “Come on everypony, I think it’s time to go home.”

“Ahh, do we have to?” Carrie asked sadly.

“Yeah, I want to stay longer to eat more of those apple pies!” Kodi said, having some apple pie on his muzzle. I chuckled a bit as I scratched his ear, much to his joy.

“Don’t worry Kodiak, we’ll be back someday. Come on, let’s go!” I said, much to his disappointment. I already like, bought 25 apple pies and so on. Oh well, farewell Appleloosa!




We were riding on the Friendship Express straight back to Ponyville. While there, me, Kodi, Mason, and Carrie were eating some of the apple pies that we got from Appleloosa.

“You know, this is quite delicious.” Mason replied with a soft smile on his face.

“Yeah, and I’m glad that the buffaloes and the settler ponies are finally friends and no longer be enemies anymore.” I agreed, taking one last bite of my last apple pie.

“Speaking of which, you do realize that Chief Thunderhooves wasn’t dead, right?” Mason reminded me, causing me to smile sheepishly.

“Yeah, just kinda realize that now.” I said, causing Mason to face-palmed.

“And also, why didn’t you use your Hacking Gun?” Carrie reminded me.

“You know, I was kinda panicking when I saw Chief Thunderhooves about to attack the sheriff, so I wasn’t thinking straight.” I explained.

“Oh.” Carrie said.

“Whatever, I’m just glad that their rivalry between each other is over.” Mason said, crossing his arms.

“Yeah, and besides, those apple pies taste so good!” Kodi said, licking away the apple pie’s contents off his muzzle. Suddenly, I looked over the window and saw Ponyville off a distance.

“Oh hey look, there’s Ponyville.” I said.

“Oh well, guess it’s time to go home.” Mason said, wrapping his bamboo pole around his back.

“Yeah…” Carrie nodded as the train made an abrupt stop. Soon, we all finally arrived back to Ponyville as the sun was starting to set.

“Alright! It’s good to back to Ponyville.” Rainbow said, stretching her back.

“Indeed, I suppose that it was fun back in Appleloosa.” Rarity nodded in agreement.

“Yup, and I’m glad everything’s back to normal.” Applejack added.

“Ms. Twilight!” Huh? We all turned around to see a white pony wearing a nurse’s hat with a red crossing and pink mane and tail and a cutie mark was a red crossing like many hospital has back from our world.

“Huh? What is it?” Twilight asked, confused on who she is.

“I’m Nurse Redheart, I work at the Ponyville Hospital.” She introduced herself. Wait, Ponyville has a hospital? How come I never heard of that before? “And it’s very important, apparently, we found someone walking into Ponyville and she fainted. We took the individual to the hospital!”

“Okay? But what’s this has to do with us?” Mason asked.

“It’s because...well…” Nurse Redheart turned to us with a concern expression. “She’s human as well!” This caused us to widened our eyes.

“Wait what?!” I exclaimed as I turned to the others. “Come on guys, we need to go now!” The others didn’t hesitate as they nodded as we were taken to the Ponyville hospital by Nurse Redheart. Once we arrived to the place, she took us to a room where the human patient was in. Me, Mason, Carrie, and the others became shocked to see the patient. It was a girl.

She had red long hair that reaches to her back and with a prominent ahoge. She had a pink flower pin on her hair and wears a short-sleeved purple sweater that has pocket on the lower part of the sweater. She had one of those stretcher things on the sweater, you know, once you pull them, they’ll make the hoodie close up. She even had a dark pink skirt and I could see pink sleeves on her, meaning that she had long sleeve pink shirt underneath that sweater of hers. She was resting on the bed, with her eyes closed.

“Oh my…” Rarity muttered in shock.

“What...happened to her?” Fluttershy asked worriedly.

“She apparently came from the same direction from where those humans lived.” Nurse Redheart explained, much to our surprise.

“The home-ship…” I muttered in shock.

“So anyway, once she walked into town, she was surprise to see us all, and when one of us tried to speak to her, she fainted, and here she is.”

“Well, it makes sense since she’s now in a world filled with magical talking ponies.” Mason said, crossing his arms and made a serious expression.

“But...is she gonna be alright?” Kodi asked worriedly.

“Well, she should be awake by the next day or…” Nurse Redheart stopped at midsentence at seeing the girl’s body began moving.

“Hey look! She’s waking up!” Pinkie exclaimed as the girl’ eyes opened, revealing her warm green eyes. She then noticed us and became surprised.

“Ahh! W-who are you?!” She asked, widening her eyes in shock. We all became surprised again and just looked at her in shock. Just how many humans are in that ship?

To Be Continued
> Chapter 22 - A Human In A Hoof!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I...I still can’t believe it. Another human in Equestria...First Mason, then Carrie, and now, her. I’m starting to think I should’ve taken a look at that white room back at the white ship.

“Umm...Hello?” Huh? Oh right, the girl. She was staring at me and my friends with scared and shocking eyes.

“O-oh right, sorry, my name is Ren Loodan, and please don’t make fun of my name, it’s actually Estonian for hope.” I introduced myself before turning to the others. “And these are my friends, Twilight Sparkle, Spike, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Kodi, Mason and Carrie Hunter.”

“Hi!” Pinkie appeared in front of the girl, who became surprised by how she appeared out of thin air and Pinkie talking. “I’m Pinkie Pie, and you must be another human like Rennie, Mason, and Carrie, right? Right? Right?!” Pinkie kept getting closed to her face, making her feel uncomfortable.

“Umm...yes?” The girl replied, still shocked by all this.

“Awesome! That means you’re new here to Ponyville! No wait! Better yet, Equestria! We gotta show you around and also have a ‘Welcome to Ponyville/Equestria” Party! Speaking of which, I haven’t done one for Mason and Carrie since Mr. Author forgot all about it!” Pinkie then turned to...wait, what is she looking at? And who is she talking about?

“Pinkie!” Twilight grabbed her with her aura, and settle her down on the ground. “You’re scaring her and I think she needs room to know what’s going on!” Twilight said sternly.

“Okie Dokie Lokie!” Pinkie replied happily, causing us all to sighed before turning back to the girl.

“W-wait, did that pony just said something?” She asked.

“Yeah, you get used to it. I mean, I’ve been here for like...four months, I guess. I don’t know, I forgot.” I shrugged with a smile.

“And we’ve been here for a month and a half.” Mason added with Carrie nodding in agreement.

“Wait...so from what happened earlier wasn’t a dream after all.” She said before chuckling nervously. “So I’m guess everything here is real, right?”

“Yeah, by the way, what’s your name? I don’t think you told us your name yet?” I asked.

“Oh right, my name is Kaede Ross.” She introduced herself. Kaede Ross? That’s a nice name. “And sorry if I was frightened by you guys, I was just surprised to see these colorful horses.”

“Actually, we’re ponies darling.” Rarity corrected her.

“O-oh, okay.” Kaede said, nodding a little.

“You know, for a human, she’s more surprise than when Mason and Carrie came here.” Kodi replied, surprising Kaede more.

“W-what? Did that dog just talk!?” Kaede asked in shock. I rubbed my head bashfully with a sweat-drop and replied “Yeah, his name is Kodiak and he’s my pet dog here in Equestria.”

“Equestria?”

“That’s the name of this world we’re in.” Mason replied, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed.

“Yeah, and it’s an amazing place!” Carrie replied with a smile.

“I see... “ Kaede said before smiling softly. “Wow, it feels like a dream, but it feels so real.” Kaede added.

“Hey, it’s okay, you’ll get used to it.” I said with a smile.

“So anyway, could you tell us what happened?” Twilight asked, much to Kaede’s confusion.

“Huh? What do you mean?” Kaede asked.

“She means why did you faint?” Mason specified, which Kaede finally understood.

“Oh...well, it just that I woke up in some chamber and tried to find my way out of some white room, until I found a door and got into what looks like an apartment. But the moment I exited out of the room, I saw this giant spaceship, and it turns out I was inside of it this whole time. Not only that, the moment I saw this town, I ran towards it to find some help until I saw all these ponies.” Kaede looked at Twilight and the others as she continued her story. “I was so surprised to see them all talking and when they all saw me and one of them trying to talk to me, I sorta...fainted.” Kaede chuckled nervously with a sweat-drop.

“Well at least we know that you came from that ship.” Applejack said, much to Kaede’s confusion.

“Huh? You know about that ship?” She asked.

“Yeah.” I nodded. “See, me, Mason, and Carrie woke up from that ship as well from these strange chambers, and found ourselves here in Equestria, and the strange part is that, we can’t remember how we ended up in there.” I explained, much to Kaede’s shock.

“What?! So you’re saying that we’re trapped here?” Kaede asked worriedly.

“Don’t worry, I’m sure we’ll help you all find a way back to your world.” Twilight assured.

“Yeah, you guys will be fine.” Spike added until his stomach began gurgling, before spitting out a letter with Princess Celestia’s seal on it.

“Whoa, how did that happen?” Carrie asked, picking up the letter.

“It’s a long story, but anyway, what’s the letter say?” I asked as Carrie handed the letter to Twilight, who opened it and started reading over it.

“Dear Twilight, tomorrow, I’ll be visiting Ponyville for a quick get-together for all the citizens of Ponyville, and I’ll be glad to see how you’re doing, along with your other friends. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
- Signed, Princess Celestia.

Twilight widened her eyes and gasped in shock. “Princess Celestia is coming here tomorrow! We gotta hurry! We need to set everything up and-”

“Twilight, calm down already!” Applejack said. Twilight began breathing in and out and soon calmed down.

“Sorry, but I’m just worried that Princess Celestia will be coming here to Ponyville tomorrow!” Twilight panicked.

“Who’s Princess Celestia?” Kaede asked.

“She’s the ruler of Equestria, along with her sister, Princess Luna. Trust me, she’s a very nice pony.” I explained with a smile until I was given a glare by Twilight.

“Ren! You need to realize that she’s one of the greatest magic users of all Equestria! One of the rulers of Equestria and has the power to move the sun!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Wait, she can move the sun?!” Mason asked in surprise. “B-but I thought….never mind.” Mason sighed. Guess they don’t know that, oops, I guess I should’ve told them that.

“Whoa...it sounds like she’s a god of this world!” Kaede exclaimed.

“A god?” Rainbow asked.

“A god is like a deity and people say that god could’ve create humankind and some people worships many god-like entities.” Kaede explained, which everyone understood.
“Wow, that’s quite amazing.” Fluttershy replied.

“Anyway, I think that’s enough.” Mason said, getting up from the wall before turning to Nurse Redheart. “Now Nurse Redheart, is she okay to stand up?”

“Well, she hasn’t sustained any injury and seems alright, so of course.” Nurse Redheart nodded.

“Good, now you can come with us if you want.” Mason replied, glancing at Kaede. “Come on, since you’re here, I guess you’re stuck here until we find a way back home.” Mason then took his leave, leaving us in surprise.

“Sorry for my big brother, he has trust issues with others.” Carrie said sadly.

“Oh no, it’s okay.” Kaede said, before getting out of the bed and put on her long socks that nearly reached to her knees, and put on her brown shoes on. “Although, I’m still confuse by all of this. I mean, talking ponies, magic, princesses, and other things. It’s like being a fairy tale.”

“Really?” Kodi asked, raising a brow.

“I guess so, but anyway, since you’re here, we can show you to Princess Celestia tomorrow at the get-together, I guess.” I said, rubbing my head.

“Okay.” Kaede nodded with a smile.

“By the way, be sure to arrive to the get together very early, got it?” Twilight reminded me with a raised brow.

“Don’t worry Twilight, we won’t.” I nodded with a smile.

“Yep, it would be nice to see Princess Celestia.” Kodi said, wagging his tail happily.

“I’m...still confuse with the talking dog.” Kaede said, sweat-dropping and smiling sheepishly.

“Yeah, you kinda get used to it.” I shrugged. “Now come on, let’s go home and tomorrow, I’ll introduce you all to Princess Celestia at the get-together. Trust me, she’s a very nice pony.” I said, exiting out of the hospital with my pet dog, and my two human friends.




“Whoa, so you stopped a civil war between buffaloes and ponies just earlier ago?” Kaede asked in wondered.

“Yep, and I think we have a few apple pies left, so you should have them for breakfast in the morning.” I replied, putting both my hands behind my head.

“Yeah, and besides, those buffaloes were kinda cute. I wished I could be a buffalo.” Carrie wondered.

“Well maybe there’s a spell for that.” I said, much to Carrie’s joy.

“R-really?”

“Well I think so, but I don’t think your brother would be appreciated that his own sister got transformed into a buffalo.”  I replied, sweat-dropping, much to Carrie’s dismay.

“Yeah...I guess you’re right.” Carrie sighed.

“Well your brother is just looking after you because he cares about you.” Kaede assured.

“You know, you’re quite lucky that you have a brother, and I don’t have any since I was born.” Kodi said sadly. I smiled softly and scratched him by the ear, cheering him up a little.

“Yeah, but he sometimes overprotects me. I just wished that maybe he would appreciate me for once…” Carrie muttered sadly. Poor little girl, I kinda feel bad for her.

“Don’t worry, I’m sure he’ll realize that soon enough.” Kaede said as soon as we reached towards the home-ship. We entered inside and saw Mason leaning against the wall with his eyes closed.

“You’re late.” Mason replied, glancing towards us.

“Sorry.” I responded, rubbing my head and chuckling nervously.

“Don’t you have anything nice to say at least?” Kaede asked, irritated by his attitude, which he ignored.

“Anyway, while you walking back home, another room opened.” Mason said, showing us the stairs that lead us to his and Carrie’s room.

“Another room?” I asked in confusion.

“You mean like...it just appeared?” Kodi added.

“Yeah…” Mason said, heading upstairs. We looked at each other before following after him. We headed upstairs to Mason and Carrie’s room, but once we were inside of our room, I noticed a door next to their bunk bed.

“Huh? Is that where the next room is supposed to be?” I asked, which he nodded as we headed inside. Once we went headed inside of the new room, we became amazed to see the bedroom is like.

It was a gray room area where there was a bed with white sheets, gray and yellow pillows, a pink blanket and a window next to the bed on the left with blinds. Next was a closet filled with different clothes to the right of the room. It even had shelves and a desk next to the bed. On the shelves was a clock, and some books. There was a black and white striped carpet and the floor was soft, not hard tile like in my room, or Mason and Carrie’s room, but it was soft.

“Whoa, who’s room is this?” Kodi asked, looking around the place.

“It seems it must be her’s.” Mason pointed towards Kaede, who was surprised to hear this.

“M-mine? You mean…”

“You’ll be staying here until we can find out why we’re in those chambers and how can we get back to our world.” Mason replied before taking his leave. Sometimes, I can never read that guy.

“Well…” Kaede turned to me, Carrie, and Kodi with a soft smile. “Thanks for inviting me over. Although, I’m still confuse on all of this, but I know we can find a way back home if we ask Princess Celestia, right?”

“I’m sure she will.” I nodded before glancing away and muttering “If she does know a spell to bring us back.”

“What?”

“O-oh nothing, well goodnight Kaede.” I said, rubbing my head bashfully and sweat-dropping as we left the room, wishing Kaede goodnight.

“Okay, I’ll see you in the morning...I guess.” Kaede replied before we exited out of her new bedroom apparently.

“Wow, another human in Equestria, this is quite surprising.” Kodi said, still surprised by seeing...her.

“Yeah, just how many humans are in this ship asleep like us?” I asked, crossing my arms in deep thought.

“Yeah, I wonder that too…” Carrie agreed.

“Oh well, I guess we should head to sleep. We can figure this out tomorrow.” I said, rubbing my head bashfully. “So anyway, goodnight Carrie and tell your brother I said goodnight as well.”

“Okay, goodnight Ren!” Carrie said, waving goodnight to me as we headed downstairs to our room. Once we arrived back to our room, I went to take a quick shower, brushed my teeth, put on my PJ’s before going to bed.

“Well goodnight, Kodi.” I said, letting out a sigh on the soft and comfy bed.

“Goodnight Ren…” Kodi let out a yawn before sleeping on my legs. Oh well, it’s time to go to sleep and I’m quite excited to see Princess Celestia again because she’s a good friend. Besides, it be good to catch up with her.




The Next Day
Kaede’s POV
…
…
…
...Uh….Huh? Where am I? I slowly opened my eyes to see myself in a gray room. How did I-

Oh right...what happened last night. So it wasn’t a dream, it was all real. I’m still confused by all this magic stuff, but then again, it’s like one of my fairy tales my dad used to read to me before...No, I gotta stay positive! So I still gotta used this and try not to freak out...like I did yesterday. Heh heh...oops.

Oh well, it’s time to get up at least. I got up from the bed, wearing a white shirt with a kitten on it and yellow pajama shorts and made my way towards the closet. Well, I guess I should wear the clothes I wore yesterday. After I put on my pink shirt, covering it with my purple sweater and pink skirt and brown shoes, I walked into the closet to see what kind of clothes are in there. Once I opened them, I found a bunch of clothes, which seemed to be my size. It’s strange really, how did whoever put us in this ship known my size? Huh? I noticed a small white kitty-backpack on the ground. Wait, I know that backpack! It’s mine! Wonder how it got here?

I grabbed my backpack and put it on and walked straight to a mirror, looking over at myself. Huh, it still fits, neat, I guess. Oh well, I think its time to head over. Ren and that purple horse-I mean pony, told me about some get-together event and meet up with a princess. I wonder if what Ren said is true? Will we get back home with her help? I guess I should ask him later.

Anyway, I left my room, deciding to take my bag with me as I walked into the two siblings room. I think they’re names were Mason and Carrie, right?

“Ren….Ren…..REN!” Huh? What was that? I raced downstairs and entered the apartment-like room, where Carrie was waiting at the front door.

“Huh? Oh hi Kaede.” Carrie waved at me.

“Oh hello Carrie, what’s going on? I could’ve sworn I heard some shouting.” I responded with a confused look.

“Oh, that was my brother, he apparently got up early and went to get ready. He even woke me up from my sleep and as soon as I got dressed, Mason went over and tried to wake up Ren.” Oh, so that’s what that yelling was.

“OW!” Huh? What was that? “What the heck was that for?!”

“We’re late! We need to go now!” Late? Does he mean the get-together? But...how?! Did we all overslept?!

“Oh crap-baskets!” I overheard Ren shouted. Five minutes later, he and his pet dog came running out and soon noticed us. He wore a blue sweater around and carried a megaphone behind his back. Wonder why he needs that? “Kaede? Carrie? You’re awake as well?”

“Of course, we were waiting for you.” Carrie reminded him, much to his shock.

“Oh right! The get-together!” Ren exclaimed with widened eyes.

“That’s right…” We turned to see Mason walking in with a serious expression. “And now we need to go.”

“Oh right! But where do we go?!” Kodi asked. You know, still confuse with the talking dog, but it’s kinda cute seeing him talk with that cute child voice.

“Well lucky for you, Twilight came to us last night while you were asleep and told me that the get-together would be held at Sugarcube Corner.” Mason explained, much to my relief.

“Oh...I see.” Ren nodded happily before becoming confuse. “Hey wait, Twilight came over?”

“Yeah, after you three went to sleep, I was investigating that white room in trying to learn more about the pods, but not until Twilight knocked on our door and came to remind us that the get-together is taking place at Sugarcube Corner.” Mason explained.

“Oh.” Ren said.

“Sugarcube Corner? Where’s that?” I asked.

“Oh, it’s this place where ponies go and eat candy and other sweets.” Carrie explained before licking her lips when she mention the candy and sweets. “Mmm, candy and sweets….”

“Well then, let’s go!” I replied, which we nodded in agreement and began running towards Ponyville. We kept running until I noticed a familiar yellow pegasus running past us.

“Fluttershy?” Ren called to her. Fluttershy? Oh that’s right, she’s one of the ponies that I’ve met at the hospital yesterday.

“Ren? Mason? Kodi? Carrie? And Kaede? What are you five doing here?” Fluttershy responded, surprised to see us running as well. “I thought you all were already at the get-together at Sugarcube Corner?”

“I accidentally overslept and we’re trying to get there as fast as we could!” Ren explained.

“So why are you late, um...Fluttershy?” Kaede asked.

“I was helping out one of my animal patients until Angel reminded me of the get-together held at Sugarcube Corner.” Fluttershy explained, causing Ren to sweat-drop upon hearing that name. Wonder what’s up with Ren? He seems quite...upset.

“Angel?” I asked.

“She’s Fluttershy pet bunny rabbit.” Ren said, letting out a sigh. I looked at Fluttershy with a soft smile, hearing that Fluttershy that she has a cute bunny. Ooh, they’re so adorable. I wished I could have one in my arms right now.

“Ahh, you got a bunny?” I asked sweetly, smiling happily at Fluttershy, which she nodded.

“Yeah, I will tell you more about him once we get to Sugarcube Corner!” Fluttershy assured as soon as we arrived to the main street. Finally, we saw Sugarcube Corner off a distance, much to our relief.

“Phew. Made it.” Fluttershy sighed happily.

“Tell me about it.” Kodi said happily as we were about to walk inside the building until it was blocked by a pair of wings. I looked over to see two ponies with wings wearing golden armor blocking our way. Are these some sort of guards?

“Halt!”

“Who goes there?”

“We came for the get-together.” Mason replied with a serious expression. “Princess Celestia and her faithful student invited us.” The guards looked at each other and nodded before lowering their wings. Huh, that work.

“Thank you.” Fluttershy nodded as we head inside. Once inside, I turned to Ren with a curious look.

“So what does this Princess Celestia looks like?” I asked him.

“Oh, she’s a very nice pony, trust me. If you see a tall white pony with a horn and wings wearing a golden crown and has a rainbow mane and tail, then that’s her.” Ren replied, describing the details about her. Hmm, a tall white pony with wings and a horn and a golden crown on her head? That shouldn’t be too hard.

“You mean that pony over at the table?” Carrie pointed out. I looked over to see her and became amazed to see what she looked. Wow...she looked so beautiful as she was sitting down on a table, taking a bite of a cake. Ren grinned while Kodi started panting and wagging his tail and me, Mason, and Carrie stared at her in amazement and awe.

“Wow, she looks so amazing.” I commented.

“She’s look beautiful…” Carrie added.

“So that’s Princess Celestia. You weren’t kidding when you told me that she was that elegant, Ren.” Mason replied, causing me to chuckle a little.

“There you guys are!” We turned around to see the purple pony from before as she was walking towards us with a worried look on her face. Oh my, she seems too stress out. “What took you guys so long? She arrived fifteen minutes ago and she’s been wondering where you’ve been!”

“We had a little problem this morning…” Mason responded, giving Ren a glare, who just smiled sheepishly and shrugged.

“Sorry.” Ren replied as Twilight sighed.

“Well doesn’t matter, I’m just glad you all could make it.” Twilight said happily before turning to me. “Oh hey Kaede, glad you could show up as well.”

“Thanks Twilight, though I’m still confused with all this magic and stuff, but it’s very nice to be invited, even after I was invited here after I got out of the hospital.” I replied, smiling nervously and sweat-dropped.

“Yes, and sorry if I was late, Twilight.” Fluttershy said. “I had to finish taking care of a patient first.”

“Oh you mean that little devil behind that cotton fur?” Ren commented with a raised brow and a smirk. “No offense Flutters, but Angel is nothing like an ‘Angel’, for like the devil.” Really? Angel is that bad?

“Please don’t be angry Ren. Sure Angel may have his...perks, but he’s a very nice bunny.” Fluttershy assured with a soft smile.

“Oh! You and your tending loving care for little animals, Fluttershy.” Twilight replied, feeling worried again. “I just know Princess Celestia’s gonna love that about you! I mean-I hope she will, of course she will!”

“Wow, Twilight. I thought I was the one who got nervous at social gatherings.” Fluttershy commented.

“Yeah, you seem worry more than often.” Kodi said, tilting his head in confusion.

“I’m sorry.” Twilight apologized. “I just want the princess to approve my friends.”

“But she’s met us all before, even me and Kodi.” Ren reminded her.

“And read about you from my letters.” Twilight said. “But this is the first time she’s spean any real time with you, I want everypony to make a good impression. Besides, this will be the first time that she’ll meet both Carrie, Kaede, and Mason.”

“She does have a point.” Mason shrugged.

“Well I’m sure you have nothing to worry about.” Fluttershy replied happily. “It’s just a casual get-together, right?”

“Don’t touch me!” Huh? We turned to see that white pony with the horns, I think her name was Rarity as she was wearing a dress and tried to make it clean. Wait, so ponies here wear clothes? And they make them? Hmm, amazing…”Watch the dress. Careful! You might spill that on me.”

Rarity was then approached by a blue pony with a orange mane and tail, but the mane had a weird hairstyle that I kinda couldn’t call what it was. “Ooh, that looks delicious!” Rarity smelled the cupcakes until she widened her eyes and back away from it. “D-did it stain?! Keep it away from me!”

“I understand Rarity cares about her dresses very much, but that’s just ridiculous.” Ren commented with a sweat-drop.

“Or...perhaps not that casual.” Fluttershy amended.

“Whatever, let’s just go meet the princess.” Mason said as we walked over to the table. I felt nervous upon meeting this Princess Celestia. I’m just...slightly worried, but I must stay positive.

“Hey there Princess Celestia.” Ren waved at her casual, much to our surprise. Twilight growled as her horn suddenly glowed, and Ren was covered in some purple aura, causing him to bow down.

“Ren! Show some respect at least!” Twilight exclaimed. “We talked about this!”

“It’s quite alright Twilight.” The princess said softly, making Twilight smile sheepishly and let go of him with her magic. “It is nice to meet you once again, Ren.” She  smiled happily to see him.

“Even me, Princess Celestia?” Kodi asked, wagging his tail happily. Princess Celestia smiled as she rubbed his chin, much to his joy. She then noticed us, which made her smile softly at us.

“And I take it these are the humans that awoken from the ship Ren came from?” She asked.

“Y-yes, well technically, before there were two more humans in Ren’s ship till after the Best Young Fliers Competition.” Twilight smiled sheepishly at her. Best Young Fliers Competition? What’s that? “And just yesterday, we found another one after our trip to Appleloosa.” Twilight pointed to me, as Princess Celestia turned us, and I was acting all nervous and shy.

“I see, it is an honor to finally meet you all.” She bowed to us with a soft smile. We did the same and smiled happily to finally meet her. I mean, I woke up here and I’m meeting a real live princess here with me? How amazing is that!

“It is nice to meet you, Princess Celestia.” Mason bowed to her. “My name is Mason Hunter, and this is my little sister, Carrie.” Mason looked down at his sister, who was hiding behind his brother’s back. Carrie shyfully came out and walked towards her.

“H-hello there Princess.” Carrie smiled at her.

“Hello there little one.” She replied with a smile. “Would you like to sit with me for a little brunch?”

“Would I?!” Carrie nodded as she happily sat on Princess Celestia’s lap, not that she mind. She then turned to me and and asked “And what is your name?”

“Oh, my name is Kaede Ross.” I introduced myself to her.

“Ahh, it is honor to meet you all.” She smiled softly at us. You know, Ren was right, she is quite nice. “You know, I could’ve sworn that Twilight told me that there was about three humans here.”

“Well funny story…” Twilight chuckled nervously. “See, after our trip to Appleloosa yesterday, a nurse from the Ponyville hospital told us that they found another human and we went over to check her out.” Twilight explained, glancing towards me.

“Oh, yes, I suddenly woken up and found myself here, and tried to find my surroundings, and when I came to this town, I fainted the moment a pony came towards me and spoke. Sorry…” I finished the story while chuckling nervously.

“Well, it’s good to meet another one of your kind.” Princess Celestia commented. “But then again, three more humans appearing in Equestria from that ship, this can’t be a coincidence…” It really can’t?

“You do raise a good point.” Mason nodded. “Just...how did we get inside of that ship and why?” I really wish so too. I mean, I can’t remember a single thing. Actually, there’s one thing I was suppose to say, if she knows how to take us back.

“Umm...Princess Celestia?” I called to her, gaining her attention. “I was wondering if-”

“Whoo-hoo! Cupcakes, and candies, and pie, oh my!” Huh? Was said that? We turned to see a pink pony bouncing around in joy.

“What’s up with her?” I asked, confused.

“Oh boy...I feel like Pinkie is having a sugar rush or something.” Ren commented while chuckling nervously. I looked at him in surprise, was he serious? I mean, I sometimes go on a sugar rush but not that crazy! She bounced around, dipping her head into a chocolate fountain and came out, only for her head covered in chocolate until it hardened, and then cracked with Pinkie munching on the pieces she got in her mouth. Wow, she must really love sweets that much, almost as I do!

As Carrie and Princess Celestia were about to eat their cupcakes, she zipped right in front of them.

“Ya gonna eat that?!” Pinkie asked, but chomped them both without waiting for their reply, but Princess Celestia didn’t mind as she just allowed Pinkie to eat her cupcake, but Carrie puffed her cheeks.

“Hey!” She protested.

Suddenly, one of the ponies gasp and grabbed Pinkie away by grabbing her tail. The same blue pony from before quickly served both Carrie and Princess Celestia another cupcake along with a cup of tea.

“A thousands pardons, your Majesty!” She apologized.

“That’s quite alright, Mrs. Cake, thank you.” Princess Celestia assured, calming the blue pony down before looking at Carrie. “Carrie, would you like to share this with me?”

“Yeah!” Carrie nodded happily as she took a little bite of the cupcake and shared it with Princess Celestia, who smiled at her as she took a nip of the treat and sipped up her tea, replacing the cup onto the saucer.

“Empty teacup at 4 o’clock!” The light blue pony shouted.

“Uh, I see it honeybun!” A yellow pony wearing a cupcake hat nodded as he quickly refilled the cup with more tea.

“Oh! Um...Thank you.” Celestia thanked.

“Not at all, your highness.”

As soon as Princess Celestia sipped her tea again, the yellow pony refilled it again.

“Thank you again.”

“But of course, your Majesty.”

She continued to sip, but every time she does, her cup keeps getting refilled by that yellow pony. Me, Ren, Kodi and Mason sweat-dropped at this scene.

“I get that she’s royal but at least let her relax.” Mason muttered.

“Tell me about it, good thing that I’m not a prince or king.” Ren sighed happily.

“Yeah, tell me about it…” Kodi nodded. I chuckled nervously as Carrie turned to Princess Celestia with a giggle.

“Does this always happens to you?” Carrie asked.

“Everywhere I go.” Princess Celestia replied with a wink and pretended to sip on her tea. Huh, is she…?

As the yellow pony poured more and became surprise to realize that he overfilled it.

“Gotcha!” Celestia smiled, with Carrie laughing, while the two pony bakers just smiled back sheepishly.

“Huh, who knew Celestia had a mischievous side to her.” Ren chuckled.

“And it seems like your sister is really enjoying herself, huh Mason?” I commented, nudging him a bit, and I could’ve sworn I saw him blushing underneath that red scarf of his.

“And what about you, dear, Fluttershy, Mason, and Kaede, was it?” Princess Celestia called us.

“Us? Oh yes, your Highness.” Fluttershy said nervously.

“I understand from Twilight Sparkle’s letters that you enjoy tending to the needs of woodland creatures, correct?” Princess Celestia asked Fluttershy, who became happy to hear about that subject.

“Oh yes, it’s true! I love nothing more than to help little animals in need.” Fluttershy explained.

“Oh, you’re an animal caretaker or something?” I asked, which she nodded.

“Yep! She’s also good with animals, like my big brother!” Carrie commented, much to Mason’s embarrassment.

“It’s not much, see, I’m a prodigy of the arts of Kendo, but I’m also what you may call an Animal Whisperer.” Mason explained as something came out of his scarf. Suddenly, two squirrels came out and stood on top of his head, causing Mason to smile softly.

“Ahh, they’re so cute!” I commented.

“Yes, this is Nate.” Mason pointed to the white squirrel. “And this is Madeline, or Maddie for short.” Mason pointed to the black squirrel.

“I see, and what about you Kaede?” Princess Celestia turned to me.

“Oh, I have a part time job as a waitress at a diner, but my real talent is making beautiful costumes.” I explained, surprising Twilight, Mason, Ren, Kodi, and Carrie. “Yeah, see I sorta have a hobby of sewing. Even my grades in Sewing class are all straight A’s. I can sew and make stuffed animals and costumes. I even once made costumes for a play back in middle school.”

“Wow, that’s amazing! You’re almost like Rarity!” Kodi exclaimed happily. Rarity? Does he mean that white unicorn wearing that dress?

“So wait, you work as a waitress for your part-time job? How old are you?” Ren asked.

“I’m 15 years old.” I replied, surprising Ren.

“Whoa, you’re 15? I’m 15 too! That’s sorta surprising! Weird, but amazing!” Ren said happily. Huh? So he’s 15 as well? Why do I have a feeling that’s weird that two 15 year old teens are in this world and inside of that ship?

“Well, that is very nice.” Princess Celestia commented. “As Princess, I care about all creatures, great and small.” Suddenly, we heard some sort of loud cough. Wow, it sounds like someone has a sore throat.

“What the heck was that?” Kodi asked. I was thinking the same thing too. I then noticed a bird cage nearby. What the? How did I not see that?

“Nothing means more to me than the well-being of all my subjects.” Princess Celestia added as something was hanging on the perch of the cage. Okay, what the? What is that?! Is it supposed to be bird, because birds kinda don’t have their feathers fallen off nor cough that much. “Ah, Philomena my pet, you’re awake. Do say hello to our gracious hosts.”

The bird started coughing a lot more, causing me to feel a little bad for it. Poor thing…

“Oh...my…” Fluttershy muttered in shock.

“What a weird bird.” Kodi said, causing Ren to glare at him.

“Kodi!”

“Sorry.” Kodi said as his ears started to droop. Ren turned back with a sheepish smile at the bird and said “Well...it’s quite a beautiful pet bird you got there, Celestia.” The bird coughed in front of him, with some of its feathers falling on top of Ren, blinking in surprise before shaking the feathers off of him.

“She’s quite the sight, eh?” Princess Celestia asked.

“Yeah, she is…” Mason asked, feeling worried and weirded out by it. Suddenly, one of those guard ponies with wings came over and whispered something to her ear, causing her to widened her eyes.

“Really?” She asked the guard, which he nodded. “Well, if I must.” Princess Celestia soon stood up and said “I’m so sorry everypony. I’m afraid that I have to cut the party short.”

“Aww…” Carrie said, disappointed that she have to go. “Do you have to?”

“Don’t worry.” Princess Celestia assured as she rubbed her on the head with her hoof. “It’s just that the mayor has requested an audience, royal duty calls! Though, I thank you all for a wonderful time. It’s been a joy getting to know you all better.”

“Bye, Princess. Until we meet again!” Carrie waved goodbye to her.

“Yeah, we’ll see you next time.” Ren said goodbye to her. Princess Celestia smiled at us before she walked out, her guards following after her. Everybody bowed their heads respectfully as she passed them by. Suddenly, I noticed Fluttershy immediately leaving with something in her hooves. Where is she going? And...wasn’t that the cage where the princesses’ pet bird was in? Curious, I started to follow after Fluttershy. Just what is she doing with Philomena?




I finally arrived to where Fluttershy was heading, and it seems to be some sort of cottage. Wonder if this is her home? I slowly opened the door to see Fluttershy settling Philomena down.

“Oh, you poor little thing. How did you get into such a condition?” Fluttershy as she placed Philomena onto her sofa. The bird started wobbling her head once it rested onto the cushion, but in a weird way that I can’t describe. “Don’t you worry, Philomena. I’ll nurse you back to health.”

“Fluttershy?” I called to her as she gasped and turned to see me.

“Kaede? What are you doing here?” She asked.

“I saw you take Philomena and followed after you. I was wondering why you do that?” I explained as Fluttershy let out a sigh and started to explain.

“Well, it’s just that when I saw Princess Celestia’s pet, I began to feel worried on why it wasn’t well, so I decided to take care of it.”

“But does she know you have Philomena?” I asked, raising a brow.

“Umm….” Fluttershy glanced away nervously, much to my surprise.

“Fluttershy! You can’t do that! What would Princess Celestia think when she finds out that Philomena is gone?!” I exclaimed.

“I’m sorry Kaede, but I had to do something to help Philomena! Would you leave your own pet to be sick like Philomena?” Fluttershy pointed towards Philomena, who started coughing again and losing some of its feathers. I began to feel bad and realized that she was right, we can’t just do nothing and let Philomena be like this. I can understand though why Princess Celestia can’t help Philomena right now since she’s a princess, she has so many royal duties.

I sighed and said “Okay Fluttershy, how about we help Philomena together?” Fluttershy smiled happily and hugged me.

“Oh thank you, thank you, thank you so much Kaede!” Fluttershy said, as I hugged her back.

“Hey, that’s what friends do, right?” I asked happily. “Besides, I’ll be more than happy to help.”

“Can I help?”

Me and Fluttershy turned around to see…”Carrie!” I exclaimed in shock as she was standing behind me with a soft smile. “What’re you doing here!?”

“I saw you leaving Kaede and I thought something was wrong and I wanted to cheer you up.” Carrie explained before noticing Philomena. “And I overheard you guys talking about Philomena and wanting to help her. That’s why I want to help as well!”

“Well okay, but does your brother know where you are?” I asked in concern. Carrie became startled and glanced away nervously. Oh no, please don’t tell me that she didn’t tell him?

“Well...no.” Carrie smiled sheepishly at us. I knew it.

“Oh Carrie, you shouldn’t wander off from him.” Fluttershy scolded her softly. “He must be looking for you right now!”

“She’s right, and I don’t want your brother to be worried about you.” I added.

“Please Kaede and Fluttershy!” Carrie plead. “I wanna help! I promise as soon as Philomena feels better! I’ll go find Mason before he finds me!”

“Well...Okay, I guess we could use more help.” I suggested with a soft smile before Philomena started wheezing again.

“Yay!” Carrie cheered.

“And we’ll help Philomena right up.” Fluttershy chuckled at Carrie’s excitement, and I did as well. “As favor to the princess who’s obviously too busy to care for her properly.”

Suddenly, Philomena let out another raspy cough. Me, Fluttershy, and Carrie let out sympathetic look at each other as Fluttershy helped the bird up. “I’m sure Princess Celestia will appreciate the favor we’re doing for her, at least.” I added.

Philomena just dizzily held her head before letting it wobble over again at a weird angle. Umm, I’m not sure birds are meant to do that.

“Umm, are birds supposed to bend their necks like that?” Carrie said, noticing it as well.

“Oh my!” Fluttershy gasp as she picked the up and added “We’d better get her to bed right away!”

Fluttershy quickly placed Philomena in a small bed. Wow, I’m surprised that bed even her size, wonder where she got that bed anyway? Carrie and I pulled a blanket as I said “There, nice and cozy.”

Fluttershy placed a thermometer into the bird’s beak, and they were surprised at how quickly its temperature flared, and not only that, she was turning red and sweaty. I gasped and quickly took the blanket off of her, Carrie placing an ice pack on Philomena’s head. We sighed happily but became shocked to see the temperature going down and her shivering, turning blue, and her pupils oddly looked like ice cubes. Fluttershy removed the ice pack and I placed the blanket back on, only for Philomena to heat up again. I removed the blanket as Carrie replaced the ice pack, and again, Philomena was shivering and turning blue. We kept doing this for a few times until the thermometer just burst, surprising me a little.

“I didn’t know that it was possible to be hot and cold that quickly.” Carrie asked, feeling surprised by how Philomena is doing that.

“Because they can’t.” I shook my head in disbelief.

“Kaede’s right.” Fluttershy nodded in agreement. “In fact, I’d say this is even worse than I thought. What she needs is some medicine, STAT!”

“You’re right Fluttershy, we should-” I was cut off as Philomena coughed and spat the thermometer out, and it landed on my face as I took it off and looked at the broken thermometer as it was covered in spit. “Probably hurry…” Eww, I think some of its spit got into my mouth.



Later
Soon, Fluttershy asked us to watch Philomena for a bit as she went prepared for something for it to eat. While we wait, me and Carrie felt something staring at us as we gazed at Philomena, who was staring right at us with its eyes, but it was quite disturbing and creepy, and I think Carrie noticed this too.

“I’m back!” Fluttershy came back with a bowl of soup in her hands, I-I mean hooves. Man, it so hard to call ponies like that when they talk like human beings.

“Oh, that’s a good idea Fluttershy!” Carrie smiled happily. “Mason always make soups for me when I get sick sometimes.” Carrie said.

“That’s very sweet for him to do something like that.” I chuckled. You know, she always talked about her brother, why doesn’t she talk about the rest of her and Mason’s family?

“Yep, homemade soup always a good remedy!” Fluttershy agreed as she blew on the soup to cool it off. She then placed it on the floor and nudged it towards Philomena. It gave the soup one looked and turned her beak up at it. “Come on now, you’re not gonna get better if you don’t cooperate.”

“She’s right Philomena…” I went over and grabbed a spoon, getting a spoonful of the soup in front of the bird. “Try it, it’s good.”

Philomena ignored me and turned her head away and crossed her teeny wings. Me, Carrie, and Fluttershy looked at each other with worried. Man, this bird is so stubborn.

“Here, let me try.” Carrie said as she picked up the bowl and said “Here comes the choo-choo train!” She tried getting Philomena to drink the soup, but it kept ignoring her and turned its head away. “Chugga-chugga, chugga-chugga, woo-woo!”

This kept going on until Philomena’s body suddenly span as she’d been rotating her neck one way, and she fell face-first into the bowl, much to our surprise.

“Uh oh.” Carriem uttered.

“I have another idea! Wait with here you two, I’ll be right back!” Fluttershy flew out of the cottage, leaving me in wondered. I wonder what her plan would be? Philomena started coughing again, even if its face was still in the bowl. I just hope Philomena will be alright, it’s almost like its...dying.




Me and Carrie were keeping Philomena company, while we fed it with some birdseed which I found in the closet. While we wait, I decided to talk with Carrie.

“So Carrie, how long have you’ve been here in Equestria?” I asked curiously.

“I think about a month and a half or so.” Carrie replied, much to my surprise.

“No way, that’s crazy. You’ve been here for that long? What about Ren?”

“Well...I think he once said that he’s been here for three months or so, I don’t remember.” I widened my eyes to hear that Ren was here for months. I hope Princess Celestia does know a way to bring us back, because my step-family might be wondering where I am, if they even care about me for reals or if they miss to due to their work, as always….

“Look, Philomena!” Huh? Fluttershy came back, with a bird on her hoof. Wait, I think that’s a hummingbird, right? “I brought a fellow feathered friend to cheer you up.”

“Oh, he’s so cute!” Carrie smiled at the tiny bird.

“Yes, Hummingway here was sick one too but he let me help and got better in no time.” Fluttershy explained before nuzzling the bird. “Didn’t you boy?”

The hummingbird hummed happily before it flittered over to Philomena.

“Say hello to your new friend, Philomena!” I said, smiling softly at seeing the two about to bond with each other.

The hummingbird, or Hummingway since Fluttershy named it, nuzzled against Philomena’s neck. Philomena regarded the smaller one as Fluttershy said “Ah look, I think he likes you!”

Hummingway flittered into the air as Fluttershy started singing.

“Ahh, ah-ah-ah, ah!”

Hummingway repeated the tune perfectly, causing me and Carrie to clapped at their performance.

“Amazing!” I commented.

“It was beautiful!” Carrie added.

“Thank you Kaede and Carrie.” Fluttershy chuckled before turning to Philomena as she said “Now, your turn Philomena!” She walked towards Philomena and said “Go ahead, you can do it!” Huh? What’s wrong with Philomena now? I understand its like being stubborn but still…

“HACK!” Philomena vomited out the birdseed, right into our faces.

“Um...good try?” Fluttershy said nicely as Philomena started coughing again while Carrie went over and grabbed some towels for us.




After that session, we retreated to the bathroom with Fluttershy holding Philomena in a towel.

“I know what’ll help that tickle in your throat, a humidifier!”

“A what?” Carrie asked.

“A humidifier is something that helps increase the air inside of a room you’re in.” I answered for her, which she understood.

“Oh I see.” Carrie nodded as soon as Fluttershy turned it on. Soon, the humidifier started pumping in a lot of air, as I inhaled and sighed happily.

“That feels good! What about you girls?” I asked.

“I feel relaxed…” Carrie replied with a sigh of relief.

“Me too…” Fluttershy nodded before turning to Philomena. “What about you Philomena? Better?”

We turned to Philomena as it took a deep breath, and we smiled happily to see it enjoying itself, but until it wheezed out, and we groaned as some of its feathers got into our faces.

“Umm...Kaede, Fluttershy. She looked worse than before.” Carrie said, feeling worried for the bird.

“Don’t worry, I know lots more cures and remedies!” Fluttershy assured.

“Are you sure?” I asked in concern.

“Of course Kaede! We have to do something and fast!” Fluttershy exclaimed, making a nervous expression before coming up with something. “Alright, let’s try...Aromatherapy!” That might be a good idea, I mean, there’s no way Philomena will get worse from that, right?



Me and my big mouth….

Apparently, as soon as we set up the scented candles and incense around the lit fireplace, Carrie placed Philomena in the small bed from earlier, but the scents made it worse as Philomena was sneezing, and molted more!

We went over to the bathroom and tried to give Philomena a bath! “Warm baths are always relaxing!” I exclaimed as Fluttershy started cleaning her, but Philomena suddenly sucked up all the water, engorgin and looking very uncomfortable and loosing more of her feathers, much to our shock.

“Ointment?” Fluttershy suggested as she placed some of it on top of Philomena’s had...only for it to break out, and loose even more feathers.

“Oh my….” Carrie muttered, covering her mouth in shock. This doesn’t look good...




“Scalpel.”

“Scalpel.” Carrie handed her a scalpel to her.

“Surgical tape.”

“Surgical tape.” I handed her the tape.

“Feathers.”

“Feathers.” Me and Carrie said in unison as we gave her a basket filled with all the feathers Philomena molted. Fluttershy was working with a cute white bunny as she began sweating and dabbed her forehead. You know, Ren did told me just earlier when we were in the get-together that Fluttershy had a pet bunny name Angel, so maybe it’s him. But still, why did he get irritated when Fluttershy mention its name?

Suddenly, Fluttershy gasp and stepped back to see Philomena, but she was still the same, only with tape around her with the feathers on them. Philomena gasped, before having her head fall over again in a weird way.

“It didn’t work…” Carrie muttered sadly.

“Oh Philomena!” Fluttershy exclaimed, at the verge of tears. “I thought it would be easy to nurse you back to health! But I’ve tried everything I know! And now look at you, you’re worse than ever!” I felt bad for her as I patted her on the back and hugged her.

“Hey, it’s okay Fluttershy, don’t be sad.” I assured. “You just gotta be patient and we can find a solution to Philomena’s problem. Just calm down…” I then grabbed my backpack and took something out of it. It was a black cat with plain white eyes. I then showed it to Fluttershy and said “Whenever I feel upset or sad, I hold onto my stuffed animal, Coco, I always get right back up and try to find a solution to my problems. Here, hold him.”

Fluttershy took Coco and hugged him. Yeah, I made Coco back when I first went to Middle School and took that sewing class. Coco was like something I’ll always treasured. After Fluttershy was finished hugging Coco, she gave it back to me as she smiled softly at me.

“Thank you Kaede, I needed that.” Fluttershy replied happily. I held Coco and looked at Fluttershy with a smile. You know, it’s strange that I got here since yesterday, and I’ve already made a new friend...No, a bunch of new friends. Ren, Carrie, Mason, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Kodiak, and Fluttershy. Even if I’m not on Earth anymore, I guess it’s nice to make new friends here at least.

“Hi Fluttershy!” Huh? We turned around to see Twilight walking in, and not only her, but Ren, Kodi, and Mason walked in as well. Oh no…

“Carrie! There you are!” Mason said, running towards his sister and inspected her. “Are you okay? Did anything happened to you?”

“Mason, I’m fine!” Carrie whined.

“Hey Kaede, Fluttershy, we were wondering where you two ran off too…” Ren said, waving at me. “We’ve been looking for you guys until Kodi picked up a scent that drew us here.”

“Yep, you can always leave it to me and my nose.” Kodi said, grinning.

“Well anyway…” Twilight spoke up. “I wanted to thank you all for making such a good impression on the princess today-” Twilight stopped upon seeing Philomena, and at the current state it was in. “WHAT IS CELESTIA’S PET DOING HERE?!”

“Fluttershy took her to help her!” I explained.

“And we came here to help as well!” Carrie added.

“I couldn’t leave the poor thing there, she needed my help!” Fluttershy exclaimed.

“So wait, you just took Philomena without her permission?!” Ren asked, which Fluttershy nodded. “Oh boy…”

“Oh no...No no no no, this is bad!” Twilight exclaimed, getting all worried.

“Twilight, just calm down.” Mason said. “I’m sure she’ll understand what happened.”

“Understand? Understand?!” Twilight yelled, causing Mason and Ren to flinch before turning to Fluttershy. “How could you do this?!”

“How could I not do anything?”

“S-she doesn’t even belong to you!”

“I had to do something!”

“Without telling anypony, without asking permission?!”

“Should we stop this?” Kodi asked Ren.

“I...have no idea.” Ren shrugged until I noticed  Philomena started coughing again, but it was worser from before.

“Um….girls?” I called out to them, but they continued their argument.

“I know you had good intentions, but you have got to return the Princess’s pet!” Twilight exclaimed. While they continued to argue, Philomena began coughing so much before falling off the table, which me and the others noticed.

“Oh no! Philomena!” Carrie exclaimed, grabbing both Twilight and Fluttershy’s attention. Carrie, Mason, Ren, and I ran over and went to help out Philomena. I helped out Philomena get back up until it gasped for a long breath until it froze in mid-inhale. Wait, is that even possible?

“Fluttershy, we gotta give Philomena back!” Mason exclaimed.

Fluttershy sighed as she said “You’re right...Okay, let’s-” Philomena then finished her gasp with a cough, making us all flinch. “Go…”

We all nodded as we headed out the door, luckily, Carrie brought a basket, which Twilight used to hide the bird before Kodi covered the basket with a lid he found.

“Okay, let’s get out of here and give Philomena back to Celestia.” Ren said as we walked towards the door with Mason carrying the basket.

“Ren’s right, and if we hurry…” Twilight said as she used her horn to opened the door. “We can put her back before anypony even realizes she’s missing.” But as soon as Twilight opened the door, we gasped to see the two guards from before, and they looked serious. Twilight made a nervous look while Ren smiled sheepishly at them.

“We were told we could find Twilight Sparkle here.” The first guard said.

“We regret to inform you, miss, that the royal pet has gone missing.” The second guard added.

“Really?! You don’t say.” Twilight replied with a nervous smile, until a hacking startled them.

“What was that?” The second guard asked.

“Oh that...uh…” Twilight couldn’t find the right words until…
“Sorry…” We turned to Carrie, who covered her mouth and just pretended to cough. Good thinking there Carrie! “My throat’s been a little dry today!”

“Well! We’d better take care of our little human friend here!” Twilight said as she pushed the guards out before saying “And you guards should be on your way if you’re gonna find the princess’s missing pet, Philomena was it? Thank you ever so much for keeping me in the loop, bye!”

She slammed the door in their faces, as we sighed in relief.

“That was too close there.” Ren sighed before turning to Carrie. “But that was some quick thinking there, Carrie.”

“Heh, I learn from the best.” Carrie smiled before turning to her brother, who smiled softly at her.

“Well thank you sis.” Mason nodded before noticing Fluttershy walking towards the door. “Huh? Fluttershy, where are you going?”

“Going to return Philomena, remember?”

“We can’t now!” Twilight exclaimed.

“But why not?” Carrie asked.

“You have no idea what the princess is gonna do if she finds you’re the one who took her pet, do you?”

“But Twilight…” I spoke up. “Princess Celestia seems like a nice pony and very understanding, so I’m sure she’ll understand why Fluttershy took Philomena.”

“Yeah, besides, what is Princess Celestia gonna do when she finds out Fluttershy took Philomena without her permission?” Ren asked with a smirk.

“I can imagine many things!” Twilight exclaimed. “She might banish her from Equestria! Or throw her in a dungeon! Or banish her and then throw her in a dungeon in a place that she banishes you to!” We all went silent for a sec until it was broken when Ren and Kodi started laughing at that possibility. Even I found it a bit funny.

“Really Twilight? Do you honestly think that’s ever gonna happen?!” Ren asked, trying to control his laughter.

“Yeah, she’s too nice to even do that at all!” Kodi added.

“Of course she would! Probably not, but still! Do you wanna take any chances?” Twilight asked, annoyed.

“Well, I’m still going!” Fluttershy said, walking toward the front door.

“B-but Fluttershy-” Twilight tried to stop her, but Fluttershy gave her a hard look.

“Twilight, all that really matters to me is that poor little Philomena here gets well.” Fluttershy said as Philomena stuck her head out of the basket and coughed.

“That’s very noble of you. I’ll write to you when you’re banished. Unless I’m banished to somewhere there’s no post office. Then you’ll have to write to me. Deal?”

“Twilight, please stop with this banishing stuff.” I said, glaring at her. “After I met Princess Celestia today, there’s no way she’ll do that! Even if I got here recently, I know she would never do that!”

“You’re right…” Twilight sighed. “Sorry, I was overreacting…”

“It’s okay.” I apologized, smiling softly at her.

“Anyway, we should probably return Philomena to Princess Celestia right now.” Mason reminded us.

“Okay, but can you help me give Philomena the rest of the soup?” Fluttershy asked. “Poor thing hasn’t eaten all day.”

“What? This soup over here?” Ren asked, sniffing it. “It smells good.”

“Fluttershy made that earlier, but Philomena didn’t want to eat it.” Carrie explained.

“Oh, she’ll eat it, alright.” Twilight said as she used her magic to swipe the bowl from Ren’s hand and looked over to the basket with an aggressive expression on her face as she opened the basket and looked at Philomena with an evil grin.

“Wait Twilight!” Mason tried calling her, but it was too late as Philomena widened her eyes upon seeing the bowl of soup presented right in front of her as she jumped out of the basket and ran off, screaming.

“Hey! Where are you going?!” Twilight asked as Philomena fled out of the cottage.

“It’s getting away!” Kodi exclaimed as we chased after it.

“No! Philomena! Come back!” Fluttershy cried out.

“Philomena, don’t run off!” I called out to her, but that bird just kept running away. We began following after Philomena as it headed straight for the park and ran towards a tree. As soon as we caught up to it, she began running around tree, leading us in circles. Ren suddenly stopped and attempted to grab Philomena, but instead, it jumped into the tree and looked down upon us.

“Dang it!” Ren exclaimed as he took out his Megaphone. Wait, what is he trying to do with it? Use it to get Philomena to listen to us? Because that bird is quite stubborn. “Paralyze!” Para-what? Suddenly, something shot out of the Megaphone as it shot towards Philomena, but Philomena ducked into the tree, dodging it before she jumped over us and continued running.

I looked over at Ren with shock to learn that his Megaphone just did...that!

“R-Ren! How on earth did you do that?!” I asked in shock.

“Oh that?” Ren asked before chuckling nervously. “See, it’s called the Megaphone Hacking Gun and I sorta find out back at the home-ship and it seems to have the power to shoot program codes or whatever to attack, stop, and control my enemies and objects or whatever.” I looked at him, jaw-dropping at him. That’s so amazing! I didn’t know there was something like that to even exist! Now I feel like almost everything that’s fictional is becoming real or something!

“Look, we have no time right now!” Mason shouted before running after where Philomena ran off. “We need to get Philomena before it’s too late!”

“Oh right, sorry!” Ren apologized before turning to me. “Come on Kaede, let’s go!”

“Right!” I nodded as we chased after that crazy bird. Further into the park, we kept running until we ran past someone reading a newspaper on the bench. We stopped and walked towards him.

“Excuse us, have you seen a featherless bird running around here?” Carrie asked. Suddenly, the person, or pony, lowered the newspaper and pointed to the left. Wait, why does this bird look so familiar.

“Oh thank you!” Ren nodded as we ran straight where the bird was last seen...Wait a minute? That guy...that wasn’t a pony at all...and…

“Oh no…” I muttered as I looked back to see the one who gave us the directions dropped the newspaper and ran off, with the moustache falling off her beak. I skidded to a halt and whistled to the others, pointing out our mistake and we began chasing after it again.

“For a bird, she’s quite smart!” Kodi exclaimed as we went past two guards, wait, aren’t those the guards that asked us about Philomena? Oh well, doesn’t matter! What matters is getting that crazy bird!




As we ran through town, Philomena headed into one of the houses and fled into one. We followed her and tried to go in, until Philomena suddenly came out in one of the houses.

“How the?” Ren muttered as he ran straight to the house where Philomena was in, until she closed the door and somehow came out the other door. “Hey, that’s no fair!”

“Doesn’t matter! Catch it!” Twilight exclaimed as we began heading inside each of the houses, but that crazy bird kept getting away from our grasps. Soon, I came out of the houses and saw Philomena coming out next to me.

“Gotcha!” I exclaimed as I pounced at her, but she dodge and I ended up bumping into Mason.

“OW!” Me and Mason exclaimed in unison.

“Sorry!” I apologized.

“It’s okay…” Mason said as he became surprised for some reason. I blinked in confusion and turned around to see Philomena escaping.

“After her!” Carrie exclaimed as we got up and chased after Philomena. While we looked for her, Rainbow Dash suddenly appeared next to us and asked “What are you seven doing? Are you having a race? Oh, can I play?”

“Rainbow! This is no time for a race!” Ren exclaimed as continued to find that crazy bird. We soon arrived to what seems to be town’s square, where Twilight’s other friends were. Fluttershy picked up Pinkie Pie, who was chewing...on whatever she’s chewing.

“Excuse me!” Fluttershy said as she looked for Philomena.

“Hi!” Pinkie responded, spitting out a few pieces of food.

Ren quickly pointed his Hacking Gun at Rarity and shouted “Move!” A green beam was blasted into the Hacking Gun as it started levitating Rarity.

“I beg your pardon!” Rarity exclaimed as Ren looked underneath her in panic. “Put me down!”

“Sorry Rarity!” Ren apologized as he immediately put her back down, and the green aura surrounding her was gone.

“What in tarnation?!” Applejack exclaimed as Kodiak was sniffing underneath her, much to her surprise.

“Sorry, but we’ve gotta find-” Fluttershy tried explaining until she was interrupted.

“The princess’s pet bird!” We turned around to see the same two guards coming in, interrupting Fluttershy. We looked up to see Philomena sitting on top of the fountain. I covered my mouth in shock to see Philomena, who barely had any feathers left.

“Philomena! Please come down here!” Fluttershy demanded worriedly.

“Yeah, you can hurt yourself!” Carrie added, but at that moment, the last feather on Philomena fell off and began coughing, wheezing, and then let out a gasp, and fell down, fainting to death. We waited for a while as Kodi muttered “Awkward…” Well, I have to agree, this was both awkward and shocking until Philomena came back up, grabbing her neck in a gasp and fell over.

“She’s falling!” Mason exclaimed as both Ren and Fluttershy rushed over.

“I’ll catch her!” Fluttershy said.

“No, I got her!” Ren yelled, but before Philomena could fall to the ground, she burst….into ashes?! Ren and Fluttershy became shocked as the ashes fell lightly at Fluttershy’s hooves. I covered my mouth in shock to see what happened. How? How did a bird burst into flames?

Fluttershy then began crying as Ren comforted her. “It’s okay Flutters, don’t cry. We tried…” Ren told her, feeling depressed as well.

“What is going on here?” We turned around to see Princess Celestia walking towards us. We all bowed to her, but I noticed Fluttershy not bowing down as she sat down sadly. Princess Celestia looked over to Twilight and asked “Twilight?”

Twilight got out of her bowing position and said “Yes, your Majesty…” She responded with a sad tone on her voice. “There’s been a terrible accident.”

“It’s all my fault.” Fluttershy admitted sadly.

“No, Princess. Fluttershy didn’t know any better. It was my fault.” Twilight intervened.

“I’m the one who did it.”

“No, I did.” Ren admitted sadly. “I wasn’t able to save her. You were trying to help her.”

“No Ren, please don’t drag yourself into this!” Fluttershy exclaimed.

“No, it’s my fault!” Twilight said.

“But it’s my fault!” Fluttershy intervened.

“I told you girls, it’s my fault! I should’ve save Philomena but I fail…” Ren said sadly. I gripped on my stuffed cat as I gritted my teeth as I shouted “Stop please!” Everyone soon turned to me in shock as I walked towards Princess Celestia.

“No...it’s my fault.” I admitted, much to everyone’s shock.

“Kaede!” Fluttershy, Twilight, and Ren exclaimed in unison. I looked at Princess Celestia, who looked at me with concern and serious eyes.

“Princess Celestia, I’m the one who took your pet bird. I really was only trying to help the poor little thing since you were so always busy with your royal duties. Then I was gonna bring it back to you, honest.” I said as I gripped on Coco real hard as Princess Celestia then walked passed me and to the burnt ashes where Philomena was. “So, if you wanna punish me...I deserve it…”

“Kaede…” Ren muttered sadly. Princess Celestia looked over at me before she lowered her head and remained quiet for a moment until she spoke up.

“Oh, stop fooling around, Philomena. You’re scaring everypony.” Princess Celestia said, much to our confusion.

“What?” Kodi asked until the ashes started moving. What the heck?! Soon, the ashes blasted into the sky and spun around, causing us to gasp. The ashes soon formed into something so beautiful and amazing, causing us all to awe in its appearance.

“What in the actual heck?!” Mason and Ren exclaimed in shock.

“I-I don’t understand!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “What is that thing?”

“Y-yeah, what happened to Philomena?” Carrie asked in concern. The beautiful creature flew around before landing on Princess Celestia’s foreleg.

“This is Philomena.” Princess Celestia replied, much to my shock.

“W-what?!” I exclaimed.

“Yes, she’s quite the sight, as I said before. But nothing unusual for a phoenix. Isn’t that right, Philomena?”

Philomena released a proud answer. Whoa, that’s so amazing! And did she just say that Philomena was a phoenix?! That’s so amazing! My dad used to tell me stories about Phoenix’s and how majestic they are. I always thought that they were fictional but seeing one right now is so beautiful.

“A...A phoenix?!” Kodi asked in shock.

“That’s a new one on me.” Ren said, rubbing his head with a sweat-dropped.

“A phoenix is a majestic and magical bird.' Princess Celestia explained. “While it appears healthy and happy most of the time…” The phoenix rose from Princess Celestia's foreleg and began flying in the air. “…every so often it must renew itself by shedding all of its feathers and bursting into flame.' She lowered her head towards me, Carrie, and Fluttershy and whispered “Rather melodramatic, if you ask me.' She pulled away and continued her explanation on Phoenix's. “It then rises from the ashes, fresh as a daisy. All just a normal part of the life cycle of a phoenix. I'm afraid, mischievous little Philomena here took the occasion to have a little fun with you, Fluttershy, Kaede, and Carrie.” Philomena lowered her head in embarrassment. 'Say you're sorry, young lady.”

Philomena let out a squawk, implying that it was sorry.

“It’s okay Philomena, we forgive you.” I said, petting Philomena gently.

“Yeah, you’re so amazing! I never seen a phoenix before!” Carrie chuckled happily.

“So...aren’t you gonna banish Kaede? Or throw he in a dungeon? Or banish and then throw her in a dungeon in the place that you banish her to?” Fluttershy asked.

“Of course not, my little pony! Where on Earth would you get such an idea?” Princess Celestia asked while chuckling.

“Yeah, I wonder…” Mason said, glaring at the purple pony, who smiled sheepishly at her.

“I guess I have some imagination.” Fluttershy said, smiling softly towards Twilight.

“Well besides that, Fluttershy, Kaede, and Carrie did do everything they could to try to take care of Philomena for you.” Twilight added.

“You’re right, I shouldn’t have jumped to conclusions.” Fluttershy apologized. “Next time, I’ll ask before taking matters into my own hooves.”

“Should I send you a letter regarding that lesson, Princess?” Twilight asked. Lesson? Is Twilight a student to the Princess? Which means I’ve been friends with a student of the princess this whole time?!

“That’s quite alright, Twilight.” Princess Celestia assured as Philomena landed on her back. “I think I can remember.”

“And as for you, young lady!” Mason spoke up, giving Carrie a stern look. “You and I are gonna have a talk about wandering off without telling me where you’re going.”

“Yes big brother, sorry.” Carrie chuckled nervously while the guards brought Philomena’s cage. I then felt something in my hair as I looked up to see Philomena giving me one of her feathers. I smiled happily and looked at Philomena.

“Thank you Philomena! I hope we meet again!” I said, waving goodbye to her. Soon, I noticed Rainbow Dash giving one of the guards a look when she made a smirk. She flew up to Philomena, whispering something to her. Philomena nodded and landed on top of her cage but she reached down with her wings, tickling the guards’ noses. They struggled to stifle their laughs and hold their composure, but they let it out in life-cleansing laughter, Rainbow Dash and Philomena hi-fived each other by using their wings as Philomena squawked in success, and soon, we all joined in on the laughter. You know, maybe being in Equestria isn’t so bad after all. I sorta like this place.

After we finished up the laughter, Princess Celestia then turned to me, Ren, Mason, and Carrie. “Anyway, before I leave, I would like to speak with our human guest.”

“Oh...Okay.” Ren nodded as she led us somewhere, leaving behind our friends.




“So...how far have you enjoyed Equestria?” Princess Celestia asked. We were busy walking through the park as Ren looked at her with a smile.

“It’s been getting good lately, me, Twilight, Flutters, AJ, Rares, Dash, and Pinkie are actually enjoying ourselves.” Ren replied with a smile.

“I see.” Princess Celestia chuckled before turning to me, Mason, and Carrie. “And I take it you three are now enjoying Equestria as well?”

“Yeah, it’s so amazing here!” Carrie responded with a smile.

“It’s been quite confusing with me with all this magic, but I have to say, it’s quite peaceful here.” Mason replied.

“Yeah, and even if I woke up to this place just yesterday, I’m already loving Equestria.” I said, softly holding Coco.

“Oh hey, isn’t that stuff animal you said you made, Kaede?” Carrie asked.
“Yeah, like I said, it’s very precious to me, and it holds many memories to me.” I said as I sighed sadly, remembering the time I first made this with dad. I really miss him…

“I see, and I can understand how you feel Kaede.” Princess Celestia said, much to my confusion.

“R-really?” I asked, surprised to hear that from the Princess. Before then, she looked at the sky, smiling softly.

“You see, back then, I lost my sister for thousand of years, and I wasn’t the same back then.” She admitted sadly before turning to Ren. “But it wasn’t for Ren, Twilight, and their new friends, she wouldn’t have come back.”

I turned to Ren in shock and asked “Wow, did you really bring back her sister?”

“Yeah, even I was shocked to find out that Luna was Celestia’s sister at all, it was back when I first came to Equestria after waking up from that chamber.” Ren explained, rubbing his head bashfully.

“Wow, I want to meet Princess Luna! I know she’s gonna be awesome!” Carrie said, jumping for joy, making Mason smile softly at her.

“Perhaps maybe you’ll meet her one day…” Princess Celestia replied with a soft smile before saying “So anyway, is there anything you like to ask?”

“Actually, yes.” Mason said, turning to her with a serious expression. “Ren tells us that you’re trying to find a way to bring us back to our world, is that true?” Princess Celestia then formed a sad look.

“Yes, that is true, but I’m very busy with my royal duties, and I asked some of my guards to find a spell that might lead you all back to your world, but no luck.” She explained, much to our surprise. So...we’re really trapped here?

“Nothing? Nothing at all?” Mason asked in surprise, which she nodded. Mason darkened his face and gritted his teeth. “So that means….we’re trapped here in this world.”

“Hey big brother, don’t feel bad.” Carrie assured as she grabbed her brother’s hand and smiled happily at him and said “I know we can get out here if we keep believing in each other and hope that Princess Celestia would find a way to bring us back home to her.” I raised a brow at what she said. Her? What does she mean by that? I wonder...Maybe Mason's girlfriend or something?

I then noticed the small smile Mason made and said “Yeah...I guess you’re right.”

“Don’t worry guys, we’ll get back home, I just know it!” Ren added with determination.

“He’s right, I will do whatever I can to help you get you all back to your world.” Princess Celestia nodded before saying  “But anyway, I received a letter from Twilight many months ago that you wished to go to the Grand Galloping Gala, correct?”

“Grand Galloping what?” I asked, confused by that name.

“It’s an event that takes place in some city called Canterlot and it’s supposed to the biggest party event, so says Pinkie.” Ren explained. Canterlot? Is that supposed to be a horse pun or something because I kinda don’t get it?

“That is true, and lucky for me…” Princess Celestia’s horn glowed as she took out three golden tickets and handed them to both Mason and his little sister. “I have two golden tickets, for you my beloved human friends and for your little dog friend, Ren.”

“Wow! Thank you so much Princess!” Carrie thanked.

"Yeah! Thanks! Kodiak is totally gonna love this!" Ren added with a smile.

“Yes, you’re too kind.” Mason nodded before putting his ticket in his pockets. Princess Celestia smiled before turning to me with a soft smile and said “Oh that’s right, you’re probably thinking that you wished to go to the Gala too, right?”

“Huh? O-oh, well...it does sound fun…” I said, glancing away nervously.

“Come on Kaede, it is gonna be fun! Trust me!” Ren said happily. I looked at him for a moment before smiling softly at him and nodded.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right. Alright, I’ll go.” I said, smiling softly.

“Very well, I’ll send a ticket to you the next time Twilight sends me another Friendship Report.” Huh? Friendship report? What does that mean? “Anyway, I should probably head back to Canterlot, until then, I’ll see you all later. Farewell, my human friends.”

“Bye Celestia!” Ren waved goodbye to her as she began flying away into the sky before she disappeared.

“Best wishes!” Carrie added, saying goodbye to the princess. I then looked over at my stuffed cat, Coco, and smiled softly. Well, even if I’m stuck here, at least I made new friends.

“Alright, you can come on out now.” Huh? Mason glared at the bushes, as it started moving as we saw Twilight, Kodi, and the rest of our friends coming out.

“Girls? Kodiak? Why were you all hiding in the bushes?” Ren asked, raising a brow before realizing it. “Wait a minute, were you all eavesdropping in our conversation?!”

“Yeah, sorry about that.” Twilight said, chuckling nervously.

“Yeah, we were curious on what was up, and so, we listened in the entire conversation.” Kodi admitted, smiling sheepishly at Ren. "But anyway, it's amazing that I'm going to the Gala as well! Yay!"

"Yeah, I'm surprised by that too." Ren said, scratching his neck, much to his joy and the tail wagging.

“Besides that, congratulations on getting more tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“Thanks?” Mason replied with a raised brow.

“So anyway, sorry about eavesdropping.” Rainbow Dash said, rubbing her head bashfully.

“Nah, it’s okay. We can understand if you were worried about us.” Ren said, smiling at them. He’s always so optimistic and determined, I sorta admired that.

“Well it’s getting late, we should probably head back home.” Applejack said, seeing the sun settling down. Oh wow, time sure flies.

“Yeah, I guess you're right…” Kodi agreed before letting out a yawn.

“Sounds like somebody’s tired.” Ren said as he picked up Kodi, who closed his eyes and began sleeping.

“Well, I guess we’ll see you all later, goodnight.” Twilight said as she and the others waved goodnight to us. We waved back at them as the sun finally settled down and the moon started rising.

“Come on everyone, time to head back to the home-ship.” Ren said, which we nodded as we began walking back to our home-ship.

“You know, you’re gonna love Equestria! I just know it, Kaede!” Carrie said as she was holding her brother’s arm and smiled at me.

“Yeah, trust us, you’re in for one heck of an adventure.” Ren added with a tooth-eating grin. I blinked in surprise before smiling happily as I gaze at Coco.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right.” Well, even if we’re stuck in this new world, I’m glad to make new friends. Yeah, I can handle whatever challenge comes to us. I know we can do it...Together.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 23 - A Trip Down Memory Lane
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ugh...Oh my god, I’m so bored. Not even my Manga isn’t helping, and I love reading my Mangas. I was laying on my couch, with a Manga on my hands, reading Pokemon: Mystery Dungeon Explorers of Sky, but I read the entire thing, and I still feel bored. Meanwhile, Kaede and Carrie were busy watching the TV. Apparently, Kaede found a bunch of videos in her closet, which consist of many movies and shows, which seems to belong to her.

“So what are you girls watching again?” Kodi asked, laying on my stomach.

“We’re watching a kids show called PJ Masks.” Kaede replied with a smile.

“Oh right.”

“Tee-hee! I love this show!” Carrie added happily.

“Yeah, I know right?” Kaede nodded as they finished up with the last episode. “Well, it seems like the show ended.”

“It was so much fun! I love Cat-boy, he’s so cute, fast, and amazing!” Carrie said cheerfully.

“Well, even for a teen, I still loving watching kids shows, it was sorta my thing back then, well, back in our world.” Kaede said, softly smiling.

“Yeah…” Carrie nodded, feeling a bit sad. I can understand why, it’s been a week since we last seen Princess Celestia from her visit/get-together and we’ve still have yet to have any info to find out about why we’re in Equestria, inside of this strange ship-like structure, and why can’t we remember anything?

“Lunch is done.” Huh? We turned to see Mason walking to the living room, wearing an apron.

“Oh really? That fast?” I asked in surprise.

“Of course, I’m very quick when it comes with cooking food.” Mason replied with a soft smile.

“Yep, that’s my big brother!” Carrie added with a happy smile.

“Yeah, you’re almost like...a super dad!” Kaede complimented, causing me to sweat-drop and Mason covering his mouth with his scarf, trying to hide his blush. Yeah, I don’t think that’s it, Kaede.

“Good! I’m starving!” Kodi exclaimed, jumping out of my lap and running towards the kitchen. I chuckled a bit for him getting all hungry.

“So...after lunch, what do you all wanna do?” Carrie asked as we headed to the kitchen. They were delicious sandwiches, salad, and rice balls.

“I don’t know, I kinda got no ideas at all.” I shrugged.

“I rather meditate and have peace for the entire day.” Mason suggested.

“Yeah, and maybe we can watch more PJ Mask on TV, I guess.” Kaede added. We all sat down and began eating down on the food. I took a few rice balls and some sandwiches and began eating, and I have to say, it’s really good.

“This is so good Mason!” I exclaimed in joy. “If you were a chef, I give it a 5 stars!”

“Thank you, I guess…” Mason glanced away before taking a bite of his salad. I noticed Kodi was already finished with his food as he lay on the floor with his stomach all stuffed up and such. That little doggy always get his stomach all filled up no matter what…

“Oh well, I guess I could play with the Crusaders.” Carrie suggested before finishing off her plate. “I mean, I haven’t play with them for a while, and I want to find out what I’m good at!”

“But Carrie, you do realize that you’re not a pony and you can’t get a Cutie-Mark, right?” Mason reminded her.

“Cutie-Mark?” Kaede asked.

“Basically, it’s those tattoos-like marks on the ponies butts, and they show them what kind of talent they specialize on.” I explained, which Kaede gave an incredulous look.

“You’re kidding right?” Kaede asked.

“No, he’s right….” Mason said, finishing off his plate and putting it in the sink.

“Okay…” It seems Kaede is still confuse with all of this stuff happening around her. But I’m sure she’ll get used to this world until we find a way back to our world….I hope.

“Whatever, I just want to relax and take a nap.” Kodi yawned and instantly went to sleep. Well, I guess maybe he should rest. Besides, we kinda got nothing to do at all. Suddenly, we heard a scream, and it was coming outside. Kodi immediately woke up and became shocked to hear what just happen.

“What in the world was that?!” Carrie exclaimed.

“It sounds like it was coming outside!” Kaede suggested. I instantly took out my Hacking Gun and immediately ran outside with Kaede, Kodi, Carrie, and Mason following after me as we immediately rushed out of the home-ship and looked around for anyone attacking Ponyville or someone in danger, but instead, we saw….

“Huh?” I asked as I saw three familiar fillies on the ground, all dizzy up.

“Huh? Isn’t that the Crusaders?” Kodi asked curiously, tilting his head.

“Anything yet?” Scootaloo asked, getting up from the ground.

“N-nope, no Cutie-Mark…” Sweetie Belle groaned.

“Yeah, besides the pine needles and such, we still don’t have a Cutie-Mark.” Apple Bloom added.

“What are you girls doing?” I asked, raising a brow. The three crusaders turned to me with happy smiles.

“Ren!” The three exclaimed in joy, jumping onto me and giving me a hug.

“How it’s going Ren? You staying cool still?” Scootaloo asked. I grinned and replied “Of course, still doing my best!”

“Hey girls!” Carrie waved to them.

“Hey Carrie, haven’t seen you since the Talent show.” Apple Bloom said walking towards her. “Sorry if we forgotten to bring you here to help  us in our Cutie-Mark search.”

“Nah, it’s okay. I was planning on meeting you all here.” Carrie replied happily.

“Yeah, it’s so good to see you...all….” Sweetie Belle then noticed Kaede and widened her eyes in shock. “Since when did we have four humans here?” Scootaloo and Apple Bloom widened their eyes as well upon seeing Kaede.

“Oh right, this is Kaede, she’s our new friend.” I introduced her to the crusaders. Kaede smiled sweetly and bent down to their height.

“Hi, I’m Kaede Ross. Nice to meet you three.” Kaede said softly.

“Nice to meet you Kaede, I’m Apple Bloom.”

“And I’m...um, Sweetie Belle.”

“Names Scootaloo.” The Crusaders introduced them to her.

“Ahh, you girls are so cute. I wish I could just hug you.” Kaede said, petting Scootaloo on the head, much to her annoyance.

“Hey, watch it!” Scootaloo exclaimed. “I love my mane being like this, thank you.”

“Oh, heh heh, sorry…” Kaede apologized.

“So what are you girls up to this time?” Mason asked, raising a brow in concern.

“Oh, we were just trying to see if we can get our cutie-marks by zip-lining, but it didn’t work out.” Sweetie Belle explained sheepishly.

“Zip-lining? That’s so cool! I never tried it, but I love too!” I exclaimed happily before noticing the glare Mason was giving me. Oops! “I-I-I mean...you girls can’t do that! That’s very dangerous!”

“Ren’s right, you might get hurt or worse!” Kaede added, agreeing with me.

“We know, we know.” Scootaloo waved her hoof off. “Besides, since we already tried and failed on getting a zip-lining Cutie-Mark, we’ll just have to find another way.”

“Well we keep trying on getting a Cutie-Mark, but no luck.” Apple Bloom sighed.

“Hey, don’t feel bad.” I assured. “It’ll take awhile for you girls to even get your Cutie-Marks, I mean, it took me a while to learn about art.”

“For once, he has a point. It took me a few years to master the arts of Kendo until I fully master it.” Mason added.

“Yeah, I mean, I worked real hard to learn how to make costumes with my sewing skills. So you girls have to wait till the time you all find your talents.” Kaede said, cheering them up a little.

“Y-you’re right, we can’t give up now!” Apple Bloom nodded.

“Yeah...Hey, I know!” Scootaloo exclaimed in joy before turning to the girls. “Tell me, who is the most awesomest pony in all of Ponyville?”

“Hmm…” Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle thought for a while before smiling.

“We know who it is!” Sweetie Belle said, causing Scootaloo to smile in glee.

“Ren!” Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle exclaimed, turning to me. I blushed at the compliment at them thinking I’m the most awesomest person in all of Ponyville.

“No! Not Ren! He’s not even a pony!” Scootaloo exclaimed angrily, much to my disappointment and confusing the fillies.

“Rarity?” Sweetie Belle suggested, causing Scootaloo to shake her head.

“Applejack?” Apple Bloom added, which Scootaloo shook her head again.

“Hello?! The most awesomest pony in Ponyville! More awesome than Ren!” I feel like I just got stab on the back, a full on stab if you might add. “She can fly at the speed of sound! Make Sonic Rainbooms! And dreams on becoming a Wonderbolt!” Scootaloo kept giving us hints, which I finally understood who she’s implying.

“Rainbow Dash…” Mason muttered. Seems like he got it as well.

“Uhh….Fluttershy?” Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle said in unison, causing me, Kodi, Carrie, and Kaede to sweat-drop and Mason to face-palm. Well, they were close, I’ll give them that.

“NO! It’s Rainbow Dash I’m talking about!” Scootaloo exclaimed.

“What about Rainbow Dash?” Kodi asked curiously.

“Well, if we listen to her story on how she gained her Cutie-Mark in the first place, we might be able to find a way to what we're missing in order to get our own Cutie-Marks!” Scootaloo explained. Actually, come to think of it, I never learn how did Dash got her Cutie-Mark in the first place, I’m quite excited to learn more about it.

“That sounds really awesome!” Apple Bloom complimented.

“Yeah, that sounds like a good idea.” Sweetie Belle nodded in agreement.

“I know, it’s a well thought out plan.” Scootaloo boasted. “Anyway, let’s go!”

“Wow, they’re very determined to get their cutie-marks, do they?” Kaede asked, astonished by the Crusaders’ determination.

“Yeah, and thinking about it wants me to help them out and get their Cutie-Marks and maybe find out what I’m good at too!” Carrie exclaimed in joy.

“But Carrie, you are good at something. You know how to take care of animals like Nate and Maddy for example.” Mason said with a soft smile. Mason’s two pet squirrels came out, sat on top of his head and nodded in agreement with him.

“Yeah, but still, I would like trying out new things and have fun at the same time.” Carrie replied with a soft smile.

“Yeah, besides, we should watch over the three before they do anything too crazy…” I added, looking back at the Crusaders’ as they began talking about their plan to talk to Dash.

“Agreed.” Mason nodded.

“Well it beats staying home and sleeping.” Kodi added.

“Well, I do want to know more about Ponyville and maybe Equestria, so why not?” Kaede said.

“Okay everypony, let’s go!” Scootaloo shouted as they began heading towards Ponyville, but couldn’t move. Unfortunately, their hooves were all covered in tree sap, much to my confusion.

“Huh? Where did that tree sap come from?” I asked curiously.

“Probably from the tree we crashed in when we were zip-lining.” Sweetie Belle replied with a sheepish smile.

“I’ll go get a bucket of water…” Mason sighed as he headed inside and went to go get a bucket of water. Well, after he’s done. I guess we can past some time by talking.

“So how you girls been doing lately?” I asked curiously.

“Eh, you know...finding our Cutie-Marks and such.” Scootaloo waved her hoof off.

“Yeah, but no matter what, we still can’t find them.” Sweetie Belle added sadly.

“Don’t worry, like I said before, if Cutie-Marks are like talents, then it takes a while to find out what you’re good at.” Kaede said, smiling at them.

“Really? Well then, how are you so good at Sewing?” Apple Bloom asked, surprising her a little.

“Oh...well it’s sorta not a big deal…” Kaede said sadly.

“Kaede?” I asked worriedly as I put my hand on her shoulder and smiled at her. “Hey, it’s okay. We’ll understand if you don’t like talking about it.”

“Oh no, it’s okay! I can tell you, although, it’s sorta a sad story…” Kaede said, holding onto her stuffed cat.

“Really? Did something happened?” Carrie asked in concern.

“Well…” Kaede cleared her throat and began telling her story. “See, back when I was a kid, I used to live with my mom and dad, and they loved me no matter what. We were always having fun and such. That is until I turned nine, and my mother died from cancer…” Kaede said sadly, causing us all to feel heartbroken and confused.

“What’s cancer?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Let’s just say...it’s a disease that’s not good for your body.” I replied, not wanting to go to full detail about that. “So anyway, I’m sorry for your loss.”

“No, it’s okay.” Kaede said, smiling softly at me before she continued “Anyway, since then, I felt heartbroken and sad that my mom past away. That is until my dad gave me Coco.” Kaede showed us her white stuffed cat with plain black eyes. “Coco was always there for me and helps me calm down and cheers me up. My dad didn’t even buy it, he made it himself.”

“Wow, that’s so cool!” Scootaloo complimented.

“And so nice.” Sweetie Belle added, much to Kaede’s joy.

“Thanks, and since then, I never felt sad ever again. Then one day, Coco’s arm got ripped, and I had to fix him. That’s when I learn that I had sewing skills once I fixed Coco’s arm. I was so overjoyed and asked my dad to let me do some after school clubs to enhance my sewing skills. He agreed and before you know it, I joined a sewing club and learned to not only make me better at sewing, but how to make costumes, baskets, and others. It was a happy time for me…” Kaede then made a sad and heartbroken expression, much to my confusion and concern. “That is...before she came to my life.”

“She?” Kodi asked.

“Yeah, my dad started dating a woman name Relina and she became my step-mother, and apparently, she had two daughters as well, making them my step-sisters as well. At first, I thought she was kind-hearted and caring like my old mother. But when my father went to a business trip, it turns out she was cruel and rude and treated me like a slave to do her bidding, along with my step-sisters. they only act like that whenever my father isn’t around.”

“That’s...so terrible!” Carrie exclaimed in shock.

“I see, what happened next?” I asked, causing Kaede to turned back and closed her eyes, letting out a tear.

“My father came back home and saw me crying in my room. I couldn’t tell him about my step-mother’s cruelty nor my step-sister’s rudeness because I was afraid of them and they threatened to hurt me. My father did cheered me up a little, but I was forced to keep doing my step-mother and step-sister’s cruelty whenever my father wasn’t around.”

“Wait hold on…” I said, stopping her story. “Now that you mention it, you said your part time job is being a maid, so does that mean…”

“Yes, I learn to also be a maid thanks to my step-mother. I had to avoid my step-family whenever my dad went to work, so I took a job as a maid to help me stay away from her for a while, and also more time with my sewing club. Everything was going alright, but when I turned 12...my father died.”

“Huh?! But how?!” Scootaloo asked.

“Yeah, what happened to him?!” Kodi demanded.

“....Apparently, after finishing up both my part time job and sewing club for the day, I came home and found my father in his room, his head lying on the table, not moving. My step-mother nor my step-sisters weren’t there either. Apparently, the police came over and ruled it as a suicide, and I was left with my step-mother and step-sisters for three years, and I never tried to be rude to them and did what they told me to do.” Kaede finished her story, leaving us heartbroken and sad.

“I see...I’m sorry to hear…” I said sadly.

“No, it’s okay. Besides, since I’m trapped here in this world, I’m not sure if I should be glad or sad that I’m stuck here in Equestria.” Kaede admitted sheepishly, much to our confusion.

“Obviously glad because of your step-family’s cruelty to you!” Scootaloo exclaimed.

“Yeah!” Kodi and Carrie agreed in unison.

“Well even so, I wonder if they care about me...in their own way.” Kaede said, smiling sheepishly. “Besides, my friends from both my sewing class and the restaurant I was working in probably wondered whatever happened to me.”

“Well true, but still, being treated like a nobody by your own family is wrong!” I exclaimed. “But then again, your friends must be worried about you.”

“Yeah, I sorta think of them as family actually…” Kaede admitted, feeling both happy and sad at the same time. I can’t blame her, I know how that feels now that we’re separated from our families and such.

“Family…” Carrie muttered sadly. Huh, I am curious to learn more about her and Mason’s family, if they like talking about it.

“I see….but what about you Ren?” Sweetie Belle asked, much to my confusion.

“Huh? Well, I kinda don’t have much of a sad story. I just lived a normal life with my family, and I remembered that my brother taught me how to play video games, and I started loving them, even games people never liked. I even liked art ever since I made my first drawing, and after some practice, I started getting better than ever and always show my work to others. But, I stopped doing that after a girl from my class just made fun of my work, but other that. My life was just normal, well, a little boring, but it was quite fun once you get used to it.” I explained, getting blank look from them.

“Well that sounds totally boring.” Scootaloo rolled her eyes. “I was right before, you may be awesome with that Hacking Gun of yours, but you’re not as awesome as Rainbow Dash.” I sweat-dropped and slump my head down in disappointment. Well, at least I tried.

“Alright, I’m back.” Mason came back with a bucket of water. I looked at him with a grin of my face.

“Hey Mason, you sure took your sweet time.” I pointed out.

“S-shut up.” Mason replied as he splashed on the fillies hooves, freeing them from the tree sap.

“Wow, thanks Mason!” Apple Bloom thanked him with a hug, much to Mason’s surprise.

“U-um...thank you I guess?” Mason said, glancing away nervously.

“Well anyway, thanks for sharing your story Kaede.” Scootaloo said before turning to the other Crusaders. “Now come on Crusaders, let’s go find Rainbow Dash!” With that, Scootaloo hopped onto her scooter and she and the other Crusaders started walking back towards Ponyville, with us following after them.

“Hey, wait for us!” Kodi exclaimed as we went after them. Let’s just hope that they won’t do something too stupid like their zip-lining thing, but I would probably still do the zip-lining or whatever.




While we walked towards Ponyville, we saw Sweet Apple Acres off a distance. “Huh, you know, I wonder what Applejack is doing right now.” I said, putting both my hands behind my head.

“Hmm...maybe apple-bucking trees?” Kodi suggested, which I nodded.

“Wow, who knew Applejack owned a farm. Plus, it’s sorta strange that she owns an apple farm, I mean, with a name like Applejack, it sounds like she was destined to work on a farm.” Kaede said with a chuckle.

“Well of course, after all, the Apple family are always known for being the best apple-picking farmers in Equestria.” Apple Bloom explained. “I mean, I’m part of the apple family as well.”

“Really?” Kaede asked, which she nodded. “Wow, it’s like a family tradition thing.”

“Tell me about it.” Carrie said with a soft smile. Suddenly, we came to a stop when a bunch of bunnies came right in front of us.

“Ahh!” Carrie and Kaede exclaimed in unison as they looked at the adorable little critters. Because unlike Angel, these bunnies are so adorable!

“Get back here, you thieving varmints!”

“Thieving what now?” Kodi asked. Unexpectedly, I was suddenly knocked into the ground. I opened my eyes to see Applejack on me.

“Whoa! Ren!” Applejack quickly got off of me, feeling embarrassed. “S-sorry.”

“Oh no, it’s okay!” I said, rubbing my head bashfully.

“What were you doing Applejack?” Mason asked, raising a brow. “Did it have something to do with those bunnies we just saw?”

“Of course, they were eating some of the apples!” Applejack replied, much to Mason’s annoyance.

“Well, if you must know that they were hungry, so you should’ve tried to kill him.” Mason replied with an angry look on his face.

“Hey! I was just trying to get them off my fields! Not trying to hurt them!” Applejack exclaimed angrily, glaring at Mason, who just glanced away from her and crossed his arms, letting out a ‘hmph’ sound. Wow, it’s totally like the only ones he trust more is animals and his own sister.

“Hey sis.” Apple Bloom spoke up, looking at her sister’s Cutie-Mark. “We’ve been wondering, how did you get your Cutie-Mark?”

“Huh? I never told you all the story before?” Applejack asked, which we nodded.

“Yeah, I’m quite curious to know how do ponies earn their Cutie-Marks, so I would like to hear it too!” Kaede said happily.

“Yeah, so do I!” I agreed with Kaede.

“Well…” Applejack was still unsure of telling her backstory, but not until Scootaloo interfered.

“Hey! I thought we all were going to meet and ask Rainbow Dash that!”

“We need all the help we can get.” Apple Bloom replied.

“Yes, besides, I’m quite curious to know about the story on how she got her Cutie- Mark in the first place, and what does it mean…” Mason said, going into deep thought.

“Ugh! Fine!” Scootaloo groaned.

“Why shoot! I was just a little filly. Even littler than you all.” Applejack began her story.

“Really?” I asked, which she nodded.

“Mm-hmm. See, truth to told, I never wanted to become a farm pony, I wanted to become a big city pony with a sophisticated life, like my Aunt and Uncle Orange.” Carrie and Kodi giggled at the names of Applejack’s aunt and uncle. Orange? No offense, but that’s quite hilarious.” So, I set out to try my luck in a big city. Manehattan!”

“Manehattan?” Kaede asked in confusion.

“Yep, the most cosmopolitan city in all of Equestria. I knew I’d find out who I was meant to be in Manehattan.” Applejack nodded with a smile.

“You know, it kinda sounds like Manhattan, a city back in our world!” I exclaimed in amazement. “Wow, who knew our worlds would sound so much similar.”

“Yes, but still...Manehattan?” Mason asked with a raised brow. “Does every town and city around Equestria must include horse puns or something?”

“What do you mean?” Applejack asked, raising a brow.

“Let’s just ignore that for now.” I said, not wanting Mason to go on. “Continue with your story, please.”

Applejack nodded, still confuse on what Mason meant and continued “Well, when I arrived at my Aunt and Uncle’s, I knocked on their door. They let me in to the new life I was going to live! But…”

“Huh? What’s wrong?” Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion. I saw the frown Applejack made and became worried.

“Applejack?” I called to her in concern until Applejack spoke up.

“See, the city life wasn’t what I expected. The city noise took some getting used to, and the food didn’t taste the same like back home. I began to grew sad and homesick for leaving Ponyville behind. I even thought how Granny Smith and Big Mac were doing.”

“I see, you were homesick and began having doubts on your dream of living the city life, correct?” Mason guessed, which Applejack nodded in agreement.
“Yeah, I never felt so homesick in all my days as I did right then. Then all of a sudden, there this loud explosion across the sky! It was amazing! A rainbow pointing right back to...home. In that moment, it all became clear. I knew right then just who I was supposed to be. That’s when this here happened.” Applejack pointed towards her Cutie-Mark with a soft grin on her face. “I’ve been happily working in the farm ever since.”

“Wow, that’s so cool! Awesome story AJ!” I exclaimed in joy.

“Ahh shucks Ren, you’re making me blush.” Applejack said, hiding away her blush until something caught her eye. “Them again!” Applejack pointed over to the same bunnies from before as they were holding some apples and blew raspberries at them and began running away. “Get back here, you thieving varmints!” Applejack began racing after them.

“Aww, that was such a sweet story.” Sweetie Belle complimented.

“Sweet? Try sappy.” Scootaloo said, making a gag before she got on her scooter and went off. I frowned a bit to hear what Scootaloo said.

“I thought it was a heartwarming story…” I muttered as we just continued following after them. But still, a rainbow exploding into the air and such, that sounds quite amazing. I wish I could see that.




Hmm...You know, I’m still thinking about that Rainbow explosion Applejack talked about. Thinking about it...wants me to paint it. It’ll be the best painting I could show to my friends.

“Whoa!” I then noticed Scootaloo stepping on the brakes of her scooter, causing me to look on what’s in front of us. Huh? Isn’t that…

“Alright, little ones. This way. This way…” It is! Fluttershy was directing a bunch of baby chicks across the road until she noticed us.

“Ren! Mason! Carrie! Kodi! And Kaede!” She immediately came over and hugged me, much to my surprise. I didn’t know she cared about me THAT much, I think.

“Hey Flutters.” I hugged her back and let go of her. “What are you doing here?”

“Oh, I was just taking some of the baby chicks for a nice walk, that’s all.” Fluttershy replied with a soft smile before noticing the fillies. “So why are you all in such a hurry anyway?”

“We’re trying to find Rainbow Dash, so we can her how she earned her Cutie-Mark.” Kodi answered.

“Oh...” Fluttershy replied in surprise before smiling. “...That would be interesting. You know, I wouldn’t have gotten my Cutie-Mark if it weren’t for her.” We all became surprised to hear that.

“Really?” Kaede asked, which Fluttershy nodded.

“Oh yes. It all started at Summer Flight Camp.” Fluttershy began to tell her story until Carrie interrupted.

“Umm...what’s Flight Camp?”

“Oh well, it’s a place up in Cloudsdale where all the younger Pegasus learn how to fly and such.” Fluttershy answered, which Carrie understood before going back to the story. “Anyway, but you’d never guess but I was a little shy back when I was little.”

“Well your name is Fluttershy…” Kodi muttered, which me nodding silently in agreement.

“True, but I was a very weak flyer. When I was practicing my flying, and I accidentally messed up and got myself tangled in one of the flags. These two other boys saw me and began making fun of me. They even called me ‘Klutzershy’!” I patted Fluttershy on the back, cheering her up in a little.

“Bastards, always like picking on the weak…” Mason muttered, clenching his fist in anger.

“Who would do such a thing to you?” Kaede asked in worried.

“Well, they’re names were Dumbbell and Hoops.” Fluttershy answered, causing me to growl. Not those guys again, they just like messing around with ponies these days. First Dash, and now Flutters? I understand now they gained respect to Dash ever since the Best Fliers Young Competition, but still…”Anyway, right of out nowhere, Rainbow Dash had flown to my side and asked them to leave me alone. Eventually, Rainbow Dash got into a race against them. I was the pony who was starting the race. As soon as I waved the flag, they began flying at top speed, making me fall off the cloud I was standing on top of.”

“What?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“Yes, but don’t worry, as soon as I was about to hit the ground, the most wonderful thing happened. All these butterflies caught me!” Fluttershy replied with a soft smile. “I had never seen such beautiful creatures. Butterflies don’t fly as high as my cloud home. And I’ve never been near the ground before.”

“Phew, well I’m glad to hear…” I muttered in relief.

“Me too, and it was quite nice that those butterflies saved your life.” Carrie added with a smile.

“It just goes to show that mother nature has a kind heart.” Mason agreed.

“So what happened next?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Well, I was enjoying myself around the place, along with all the cute critters. When all of a sudden, a huge burst of rainbow came out of the sky, causing a very loud boom which scared all the animals. However, I walked over to each one of them and told them it was okay. Somehow, I had the ability to communicate with the animals on a different level.” Fluttershy explained.

“A huge burst of rainbow?” Mason asked, raising a brow, which Fluttershy nodded. “Strange…” Actually, I have to agree. Didn’t Applejack say that she saw a huge burst of rainbow exploded in the sky when she was filly that got her Cutie-Mark? What could it mean?

“That doesn’t matter!” Scootaloo exclaimed. “What about Rainbow Dash? What about the race?!”

“Oh. Well, I wasn’t there, so I don’t really know what happened.” Fluttershy answered as she pointed to her butterfly-like Cutie-Mark.

“Well either way, I think that story was quite nice. It was like you were destined to become an awesome animal caretaker.” I commented, making Fluttershy blush a bit.

“Aww, thanks Ren.” Fluttershy replied with a soft smile.

“Ahhh…” Kodi, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Carrie sighed in unison. Scootaloo gagged while Mason and Kaede smiled at me. Seriously? What’s going on?
“Ugh, come on Crusaders. Let’s go and keep looking for Rainbow Dash. Besides, I can’t take anymore singing.” Scootaloo called over.

“Well maybe my sister knows where she is.” Sweetie Belle suggested. “Bye Fluttershy!” Sweetie Belle waved goodbye to her as they began to leave.

“Bye girls.” Fluttershy responded back to them.

“Anyway, we gotta go too! Don’t want them to be in trouble.” I replied with a soft smile. “We’ll see you later Flutters!”

“Yeah, bye!” Kaede added.

“Thanks for telling your story!” Kodi barked goodbye to her.

“See ya everyone!” Fluttershy waved goodbye to us as we continued our way to find Rainbow Dash. Still, that burst of rainbow...what could it mean?




“Hmm…” I overheard Mason muttering, going into deep thought. I wonder if it has to do the backstories AJ and Flutters were telling us about. Is it about that burst of Rainbow? I wonder...could’ve it been from Dash herself? We were finally back to Ponyville as we were walking through main street.

“Oh, good day my friends.” Huh? I looked over to my right to see Rarity walking over to us.

“Oh hi Rarity!” Carrie waved to her.

“Oh hey Rares, how it’s going?” I asked with a soft smile.

“I’m doing alright, thanks for asking.” Rarity replied. “Just heading back to the shop to prepare the dresses for the Grand Galloping Gala. So what brings you all here today?”

“We’re just heading over to Rainbow Dash and ask how she got her Cutie-Mark.” Sweetie Belle replied before gasping. “Wait, sis! Maybe you should tell us how did you got your Cutie-Mark!”

“Oh come one!” Scootaloo groaned.

“Actually, I want to know too!” Kodi agreed with a smile.

“Yeah, so do I!” Kaede said happily. “I mean, if we’re gonna be friends, we should get to know each other more!”

“Well, you are right about that Kaede!” Rarity nodded in agreement. “Alright, let me tell you all the story on how I received my Cutie-Mark.” Rarity said, much to our joy, Scootaloo’s anger and Mason’s curiosity.

“How did we get roped into this?” Scootaloo muttered in annoyance. “We’ll never hear Rainbow Dash’s story.”

After she cleared her throat, she began her story. “Well you see...I was making costumes for a play when I was your girl's’ age. It was for the same school you three are attending right now. The costumes consisted of a group of fruit, a dandelion, a cake, a stack of hay, and a flower. However, I felt as if they could have still been much more fabulous!”

“Oh, so you wanted to make the costumes more beautiful that’ll impress everyone, right?” Kaede guessed.

“Exactly, when the teacher praised me for my work, I still felt like there was something missing. So the next day, I tried every trick I could think of, but nothing seemed to work. The costumes just weren’t right. And the play opened that night. When I was at the point of doubting myself in being into fashion, my horn suddenly began glowing and moving me! I had no idea where my horn was taking me. But Unicorn magic doesn’t happen without a reason. I knew this had to do with my love of fashion and maybe even my Cutie-Mark! I knew that this was...My destiny!”

“Your destiny?” I asked.

“Yes, you see, at first, I couldn’t believe that my horn had led me to a mere humongous rock. It wasn’t until an explosion of rainbow flew throughout the sky. It had split the rock in half revealing many gems! There were so many gems! I could hardly stare away from their beauty!”

“Wow! That’s so amazing!” Carrie exclaimed in amazement, I could even see her eyes sparkled in amazement.

“If I had to guess, that experience there taught you that Gem-finding spell back then, correct?” Mason asked.

“Why of course!” Rarity nodded before continuing her story. “Anyway, that night, at the play, I had coated the costumes with gems. Everypony in the audience was amazed at what an amazing job I done! I looked at my flank and there it was! My cutie-mark!”

“So cool! No wonder why your a fashion designer or something!” Kodi said with a happy grin.

“I know how you feel Rarity! That feeling of making your costumes so beautiful to satisfy everyone, including your friends! As a costume maker, I appreciate your work, Rarity!” Kaede added with a smile.

“Aww thank you Kaede.” Rarity said, blushing in embarrassment. “B-but anyway, I hope you all enjoy it.”

“Anytime Rares!” I exclaimed in joy while I noticed Mason was in deep thought. Probably about that burst of rainbow again. First AJ, then Flutters, and now Mason? This can’t be a coincidence, right?

“Ugh! These namby-pamby stories aren’t getting us any closer to our Cutie-Marks!” I turned to Scootaloo, who was getting irritated. “They’re all about finding who you really are and boring stuff like that!” Scootaloo exclaimed.

“Scootaloo!” I yelled. “Don’t be mean! At least we’re learning more about our friends, besides, you do realize that our friends are friends with Dash, right?”

“Yeah, but I rather be with Rainbow Dash than them! Come on girls, let’s go! We need action! We need Rainbow Dash! ” Scootaloo hopped onto her scooter and left, with the crusaders following after her. Wow, that was plain rude, well, I can see what she and Rainbow have in common.

“We’re sorry if they acted like that, Rarity.” Mason apologized.

“No no, it’s quite alright. But I’m just glad to tell my story, that’s all.” Rarity replied. “So care to tell me any of your story.”

“Well…” Kaede said, feeling uncomfortable to tell her the story of her life back on our world.

“Sorry Rares, but we kinda don’t have the time for that! We kinda gotta follow the fillies before they do something too stupid!” I exclaimed, saving Kaede from telling the same story she told us. “Goodbye for now!” With that, we ran and headed after the Crusaders, leaving a bewildered Rarity.

“Um...bye for now?” I overheard Rarity wished us goodbye. Phew, that was a close call.

“Thanks for the save, Ren.” Kaede thanked me with a soft smile.

“Hey, that’s what friends do!” I replied back with a nod as we went to go find the girls.




“Where could they be?” I asked myself

“They couldn’t have gone that far, right?” Carrie asked.

“Wait…” Kodi started sniffing in the air before he pointed to the right. “There right over there!” We turned to the right like Kodi said, and to our surprise, we saw the Crusaders. Not only that, but Twilight was with them as well.

“Okay, how did we miss them?” I asked, raising a brow. Mason just shrugged while Kaede and Carrie were just confused as I was.

“Let’s just...go talk to them.” Mason responded, which I nodded in agreement. We walked over there, which Twilight noticed us.

“Oh hey guys, what are you doing here?” Twilight asked.

“We’re just looking after the Crusaders in case they don’t do anything too dangerous.” I replied, rubbing my head bashfully. “But seeing them with you, I’m guessing you’re gonna tell them how you got your Cutie-Mark, right?”

“You’re right about that, Ren.” Twilight nodded before muttering “For once, maybe.” I overheard what she said as I grew angry at her.

“Hey, I’ll have you know Twilight that I’m always right, right?” I asked angrily, which Twilight smiled sheepishly and the others just looked away from me. Come on, I’m not that stupid!...Right?

“Anyway...moving on.” Mason said, wanting to avoid the subject. “Care to us tell us your side of the story?”

“Why I’ll be glad.” Twilight nodded before clearing her throat and started her backstory. “As a young filly in Canterlot, I always wanted to go to the Summer Sun Celebration, where Princess Celestia raises the sun.” Oh yeah, I forgot about that time. It was the day I woke up from the chamber and in Equestria, and became good friends with Twilight, Fluttershy, and the others.

“Hold on?! Raises the sun?!” Kaede exclaimed. “She can raise the sun!?”

“Well of course, don’t somepony in your world do that?” Apple Bloom asked, raising a brow.

“No actually, it just moves on its own.” Kaede explained, much to the fillies shock.

“We’ll...talk about that later.” Twilight said. “But anyway, after I saw the most amazing, most wonderful thing from Princess Celestia’s appearance, I poured myself into learning everything I could about magic. Thus, I spent every day and night reading through my books, learning many things!”

“Oh, so that explains why you love reading books so much.” I said with a tooth-eating grin. “I can relate. The moment I read my first Manga, I was astonished and wanted to pour more info into my head with all the awesome stuff in it.” Everyone sweat-dropped upon hearing my explanation.

“Well...there’s a clear difference between Mangas and books, Loodan.” Mason said, pinching the bridge of his nose. Oh come on! You guys are haters! All of you! What is the difference between Mangas and books?! I mean, they’re both made for reading!

“So…” Twilight continued the story. “My parents decided to enroll me in Princess Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns. It was a dream come true! Well, except for one tiny thing…” Twilight said, smiling sheepishly.

“What was it?” Kodi asked curiously.

“I had to pass an entrance exam! I had to hatch a baby dragon from an egg!” Twilight exclaimed.

“What?!” I exclaimed in shock. “But hold on, that isn’t fair! I mean, you were a filly, so you didn’t even know what were you doing!”

“That’s exactly what I thought!” Twilight nodded in agreement before smiling softly. “While I tried doing it, I gave up and thought it was all over, until all of a sudden-”

“A explosive burst of rainbow came out of nowhere, correct?” Mason asked, much to our surprise.

“Y-yeah, but how did you know that?” Twilight asked.

“We heard from Fluttershy, Applejack, and Rarity. It seems like they experience the same thing from when they were fillies.” Kaede answered.

“Strange…” Twilight muttered before going back to her story. “But anyway, like Mason said, a huge explosive burst of rainbow came out of nowhere. It scared me so much that magic shot out from my horn and towards the egg! The egg broke, releasing a baby dragon.”

“A baby dragon?” Carrie asked. Wait a minute...could she be talking about?...

“You’re...talking about Spike, right?” I asked curiously.

“Why yes, of course.” Twilight nodded.

“Spike? Who’s that?” Kaede asked.

“He’s a dragon and Twilight’s assistant.” Mason replied with a serious expression. “Speaking of which, I haven’t seen him since we left for Appleloosa, and he wasn’t there for the get-together last week.”

“Oh yeah, I forgot about him.” I added. “Where is he?”

“Oh, he has some important business back in Canterlot, so he won’t come back till tomorrow.” Twilight responded. Oh, I see now.

“Whatever! Just tell us the story!” Scootaloo exclaimed, causing me to frown and Mason to glare at her. This filly should really learn respect for others, including my friends.

“Oh right…” Twilight cleared her throat, going back to the story. “See...I sorta accidentally lost control of all my magic! I had no idea what was going on! I had never been more scared of anything in my life! It wasn’t until the Princess placed her hoof on me. When I saw her, I instantly calmed down. All the bad magic I had caused was undone.” Wow, I know Celestia was good, but not that good if she was able to get rid of all the magic Twilight caused.

“Soon after, I grew afraid and apologized to her, but she didn’t scold me.” Twilight said in joy. “She told me that I had a special gift and told me that she never came across a Unicorn with raw abilities. And the best part is that….she not only allowed me to be a student to her school, but also her personal protege at her school.”

“Oh, so that’s how you became her faithful student, huh?” I asked with a smile.

“Exactly!” Twilight exclaimed happily. “Before you know it, I was super excited to be accepted to the school, but not until Princess Celestia pointed to my flank, which showed me my own Cutie-Mark!” Twilight exclaimed as she began hopping happily around, much to our surprise.

“It was amazing! Before you know it, I grew excited and shouted "YES YES YES YES! Why? Because it was the most greatest thing of my entire life! YES YES YES YES!” Why is she keep shouting yes over and over again?

“Umm….” Carrie tried to say something, but her brother stopped her and shook his head, not wanting to go far to know why Twilight is acting like this, and so was I.

“Okay okay!” Apple Bloom responded, feeling uncomfortable at seeing Twilight like this.

“We’re happy for you, Twilight.” Sweetie Belle added.

“Yeah, thrilled. Let’s get the heck out of here while we still can.” Scootaloo announced as they walked away from the scene.

“Yeah, us too.” Kodi said, which we nodded in agreement.

“Um...bye Twilight.” I waved goodbye to her.

“Yeah, see ya Twilight.” Kaede added before we followed after the fillies and continued our way to find Dash. I smirked a little at seeing Twilight like that, it nice to see her expressing her emotions a lot.




“Ugh! Come on everypony, if we keep wasting time! We’ll never be able to find Rainbow Dash and hear her awesome tale on how she got her Cutie-Mark!” Scootaloo exclaimed, irritated by all these distractions.

“Come on Scootaloo, I’m sure Rainbow is just doing something…” I said, trying to calm her down.

“Oh really? What’s that?” She asked, raising a brow. I opened my mouth, but no words came out.

“...I have no idea.”

“But still, these stories on how our friends got their Cutie-Marks are quite amazing!” Carrie exclaimed.

“I know right?” Kodi nodded in agreement.

“Yes true, but still...something bothers me.” Mason said, much to our confusion.

“Huh? What do you mean Mason?” Kaede asked in confusion.

“I’m sure you all remember the strange connection in each of their stories, right?” Mason asked. I began thinking on the question he asked us, and realized what he was talking about.

“You mean...that burst of rainbow that explodes into the sky, right?” I asked, which Mason nodded.

“Correct, it can’t be a coincidence, that rainbow has some significant role in this whole thing.”

“What do you mean?” Kodi asked.

“I mean how our friends gained their Cutie-Marks, it’s just so...weird.” Mason admitted, before going back into deep thought. Hmm, can’t really blame him for not thinking about it. What is up with this rainbow thing? Wait...a burst of rainbow? I feel like I’ve seen that before...Could it be...Ah, of course! The sonic Rainboom! I remember Rainbow told me that she used to perform it back when she was a filly. So...that Sonic Rainboom did that.

“Hi guys!” Huh? Suddenly, I was face-to-face with a certain pink party pony.

“GAH!” I exclaimed in shock. Boy, I wasn’t prepared for that.

“Pinkie? Where did you come from?!” Kaede asked, surprised for her appearing out of nowhere, per usual.

“Oh, that’s an easy question, Kaede!” Pinkie said, appearing right in front of her and touching her nose before she grabbed two dolls, one was a man and the other was a woman. “Well you see, when a mommy pony and a daddy pony meet for the first time, they-”

“Stop that!” Mason exclaimed, blushing a bit. “She didn’t mean that! She meant where the heck did you come from? How did you appeared right in front of us?”

“Oh, I was walking in front of you guys.” Pinkie replied, sticking her tongue out a little.

“But wait, we didn’t even see you.” Kaede responded, feeling quite creeped out from Pinkie.

“Kaede, it’s best if you don’t question her. It’s just Pinkie being Pinkie.” I spoke up, getting back up.

“Huh? But what does that mean?” Kaede asked.

“Just...don’t.” I shook my head.

“Yeah, I mean, many of the fans has been asking for that, and yet, the mystery has still never been solved. I mean, we went past like eight seasons of the My Little Pony series. Well, for us and the author, we’re practically on Season one of this fanfic, so it might take a while to get there-.” We all just looked with confusion and surprise looks.

“What?” Kodi asked, while my brain tried to process what she just said. Eight seasons? Season one of this fanfic? Fans? I think my head need to relax with a nice drink of orange soda when we get back home.

“Yeah…” Sweetie Belle said, glancing away from Pinkie until Apple Bloom spoke up.

“But anyway, we’re kinda busy searching for Rainbow Dash and ask her how did she get her Cutie-Mark.” Apple Bloom added, which made Pinkie gasp happily.

“No way! Can I share my story? Can I?! Can I?!” Pinkie asked, hopping around us.

“She sure is energetic…” Kaede muttered in surprise.

“You don’t know the half of it.” I responded with a sigh.

“Ugh, fine!” Scootaloo groaned. “Just get it over with!”

“Okie Dokie Lokie!” Pinkie nodded, which made both Kodi and Carrie giggled and Kaede to chuckle a bit.

“Well, you gotta admit, she’s quite funny.” Kaede chuckled. I nodded with a smile, agreeing with her. Before then, Pinkie started her story.

“See, my sisters and I were raised on a rock farm outside of Ponyville.” Wait, rock farm? Is that a thing or something? “We spend our days working on the fields. There was no talking, and there was no smiling.”

“Wait, so you weren’t like this from before?” I asked, surprised to hear that.

“Yeah, all because of that rock farm, it was no fun, no offense to my family. But I mean, all you had to do was rotate rocks and such. How boring is that?!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“That...does make an amount of sense, I suppose.” Mason muttered in agreement.

“Wow, hearing about your life Pinkie…” I made a sad expression. “Makes me kinda sad…”

“Oh don’t be Rennie, because the good part is just starting!” Pinkie patted me on the head. Hmm, if I had to guess, does it involve?...

“So anyway, while I was in the south field, preparing to rotate the rocks to the east field when all of a sudden...BOOM!” Pinkie shouted. “This huge rainbow exploded in the sky! When I saw it, I was so happy! I never felt joy like that before. It felt so good. I just wanted to keep smiling forever.” Called it! I called that!

“And I can see how that worked out.” I said, rubbing my head bashfully with a big grun.

“That’s right Rennie!” Pinkie nodded in agreement. “And I wanted everypony to know how to smile too, but rainbows don’t come along that often. I wondered, how else could I create some smiles? I spent that whole night and morning making a huge party for my family! When the sun rose up, I looked out the shed where the party was going to be at. And as soon as I brought my mom, dad, and my sisters to the shed, she became shocked and trembled in fear.”

“So...they didn’t like it?” Kodi asked.

“Like it?” Pinkie asked sadly before grinning and shouted “They love it!”

“Really?” Kaede asked before sighing in relief. “For a second there, you had us worried.
“That’s what I thought too, but they finally smiled like they never smiled before! Since then, I received my Cutie-Mark on partying and since that day, I would always cherished the memories of that day!” Pinkie said happily. “And that’s how Equestria was made.”

We remained silent when Pinkie said that last sentence of her story. “...What?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Umm...you mean gaining your Cutie-Mark, correct?” Mason asked, raising a brow.

“Oooh that...Yep!” Pinkie nodded happily. Same old Pinkie Pie, but I never knew that she never smiled or even had that cheerful personality. I guess never judge a book by its cover, or in this case, a hyperactive pink pony by her personality and looks.

“Whatever, we have no time!” Scootaloo exclaimed angrily. “All I just want to hear Rainbow Dash’s story! Now we’ll never hear it!”

“Oh you mean Dashy, she’s act Sugarcube Corner!” Pinkie responded with her usual grin.

“Sugarcube Corner?” Kaede asked.

“Remember, it was that baker’s place where we met Princess Celestia for the first time.” Mason replied.

“Oh that’s right.” Kaede smiled happily. “So Rainbow Dash is in Sugarcube Corner?”

“Yep yep!” Pinkie nodded. “Along with the others!”

“Glad to hear!” Scootaloo exclaimed happily. “Come on girls! Let’s go!” Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle nodded and headed towards Sugarcube Corner.

“Well, guess we’re going too, huh?” I asked.

“Well, we have no choice, besides, it might solve the one connection to the stories we’ve been hearing from them.” Mason replied with a serious expression.

“Well either way, I am getting a little hungry.” Carrie said, her stomach groaning a bit.

“Yeah, me too…” Kodi agreed.

“But we had lunch like an hour ago.” Kaede replied with a surprised expression.

“My sister has always been known for having a big stomach.” Mason replied with a soft smile, causing Carrie to blush a bit.
“And Kodi’s stomach is like an endless abyss.” I added, much to Kodi’s embarrassment as well.

“Well anyway, come on everypony, let’s go!” Pinkie exclaimed, appearing right in front of me again, surprising me again.

“Whoa!” I fell on my butt and saw her hopping away towards Sugarcube Corner.

“That mare is gonna be the death of me…” I muttered, which the others nodded in agreement. Seriously, I gotta be prepared for whenever she appears right in front of me. I mean, after that whole Pinkie Sense incident, I’m still grasping on her randomness and such, but then again, I think it’s pretty funny for that kind of personality of hers. She’s like a clown...a super funny clown...I think.




“Look! We’re here!” Pinkie pointed out as we finally arrived to Sugarcube Corner. “Maybe someday I could tell you all the story of my life and possibly my Cutie-Mark, it’s a diamond!”

“First off, you already told us. Don’t pretend to be stupid, which you are anyway. Second, your Cutie-Mark is a bunch of balloons, not a diamond.” Mason replied with an annoyed look.

“Okie dokie lokie!” Pinkie nodded, causing Mason to face-palmed. Well I can hardly blame him, at least. As soon as we entered the place, we find the Crusaders talking our friends.

“Oh Ren, Kodi, Carrie, Mason, Kaede, Pinkie, you’re here.” Twilight said, noticing us walked in.

“Hey girls, what did we missed?” I asked.

“Oh, we were about to hear the awesome tale of Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo exclaimed.

“Yep, but then again, listening to the others’ stories was quite amazing, especially my big sis.” Apple Bloom added.

“Yeah, mine too.” Sweetie Belle agreed, causing both AJ and Rares to smiled appreciatively.

“So if you don’t mind, can we hear it, please?” Carrie asked politely.

“Well Scoots told me you guys wanted to hear my Cutie-Mark story? Right?” Rainbow asked.

“You have no idea.” Kaede said, smiling sheepishly while rubbing her head bashfully.

“Well, I’m glad to hear it!” Rainbow nodded before she began telling her story. If me and Mason are right, then that means that it was the Sonic Rainboom that earned our friends’ Cutie-Marks.

“It all happened during the race at Flight Camp, where I stood alone against all odds to defend Fluttershy’s honor.”

“Oh yeah, Fluttershy told us about that.” Kodi said, remembering Fluttershy’s story.

“Yep, and as soon as the flag flashed, I began with an amazing burst of speed! I’ve never flown like that before. That freedom was unlike anything I’ve ever felt. The speed, the adrenaline, the wind in my mane...I liked it a lot! Turns out that the only thing I liked more than flying fast...was winning! Most ponies thought the Sonic rainboom was just an old mare’s tale, but that day...The day I discovered racing...I proved the legends were true. I made the impossible happen! And that, little ones, is how you earn a Cutie-Mark.” Rainbow finished her story as the Crusaders were amazed by the story.

“Sonic Rainboom?” Mason asked.

“Oh, it’s this incredible thing that Rainbow Dash can do when she goes really fast and makes the biggest rainbow that you’ve never seen!” I answered with a smile on my face.

“Ren’s right! I once performed it in the Best Young Fliers Competition, even Ren saw it closely when he competed in it.” Rainbow added, much to Mason, Carrie, and Kaede’s shock.

“Wait, but how could that be?!” Kaede asked in shock.

“Easy, I used my hoverboard to compete in the race, it wasn’t hard, if you count saving a bunch of ponies, including Rarity, from falling off from the sky.” I answered with a chuckle, creating even more for them.

“You have a hoverboard?!” Carrie asked. Well, this is gonna be a long story.

“Well, before we go into that...I think we need to go back to what Rainbow Dash just said a minute ago.” Fluttershy spoke up, looking at Dash with a surprised expression.

“About what?” Dash asked, not following what she meant.

“It’s about the Sonic Rainboom. I heard an explosion and saw that rainbow too. Rainbow Dash, if you hadn’t scared the animals, I never would have learned I could communicate with them and gotten my Cutie-Mark.”

“I heard that boom! And right afterwards there was this amazing rainbow that taught me to smile.” Pinkie added.

“When I got my Cutie-Mark, I saw a rainbow that pointed me home.” Applejack said, shocked to hear about this. “I bet it was your Sonic Rainboom!”

“There was an explosion I could never explain when I got my Cutie-Mark!” Rarity exclaimed.

“This is uncanny! If that explosion didn’t happen when it did, I would have blown my entrance exam. Rainbow Dash, I think you helped me earn my Cutie-Mark too!” Twilight added.

“We all owe our Cutie-Marks to you!” She added as everyone gave Dash a big hug and sighed happily.

“Wow, it was like you girls were already friends, even if you didn’t meet each other for the first time.” I spoke up, with a big grin on my face.

“I know, I think it was amazing.” Kaede said, smiling happily.

“Thanks, but...maybe you all should join in.” Twilight said, much to our surprise.

“R-really?” I asked, which they nodded as Applejack said “Well of course, you’re are friends too and should join in with us, Loodan.” I blushed a bit and nodded as we all gave them a group hug, even Mason unexpectedly got a hug from Pinkie Pie, but he didn’t mind.

“Awww…” Both Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle felt emotional to see us like this, but…

“Eww!” Scootaloo groaned. Oh come on, can’t she at least learn to accept emotional moments or something? “Gimme a break. Come on, Crusaders! Maybe we just need to try zip-lining again.” With that, they left in a hurry while we finished up our group hug.

“Should we stop them from their zip-lining or something?” Kodi asked.

“Nah, they’ll probably stop once they try it again.” I shrugged.

“You know, I’m quite curious.” Twilight spoke up after they finished their hug. “What about Ren and the others?” Huh? What about us?

“Yeah, what about you guys’ stories?” Rainbow asked. “But we can understand, I mean, he told us a lot about his life with his family.”

“Yeah, that is true.” I nodded in agreement.

“Well...I guess I don’t mind sharing with you all…” Kaede said, feeling uncomfortable to tell them it, but I turned to her with a soft smile.

“Hey, don’t worry Kaede. They’re very nice ponies and they’ll totally understand what you’re saying. Trust me…” I said, smiling softly at her, which made her relaxed more.
“You’re right, thanks Ren.” Kaede said, smiling and blushing at me. I smiled back at her, but not until I noticed Mason feeling uncomfortable. I could tell by seeing his fist clenching in anger and glancing away.

“Mason, you okay?” I asked in concern.

“...Leave me alone.” Mason responded. I became surprised for him to say something like that.

“Mason?” Everyone turned to him with worried, confusion, and concern.

“Mason, what’s wrong?” Twilight asked.

“I...just want to be left alone for a while. Besides, why should I tell you anything?” Mason asked, glaring at us.

“Because...we’re friends.” I replied.

“....” Mason just went silent and didn’t respond before he took his leave, leaving us in bewilderment.

“What was that just now?” Rainbow asked.

“That was...surprising.” Rarity said, surprised by Mason’s behavior. “I mean, what caused Mason to act up like that?”

“...I’ll go talk to him. I’ll be right back.” I said, walking out of Sugarcube Corner and headed out to see Mason walking away, darkening his face. Why is he acting like this? Does it have something to do with what Twilight said suggesting that we should tell our stories?

“Mason!” I called for him, gaining his attention.

“What do you want?” Mason asked, glancing away coldly. Well...that was rude.

“Mason, what’s wrong?” Mason didn’t respond and began to feel uneasy. “Mason...If it got something to do about we each tell our childhoods and such...you don’t gotta tell us.”

“I...don’t have to tell you anything.” Mason said, much to my surprise.

“Huh?”

“I don’t like talking about it.” Mason replied with a sad expression. I don’t understand, what could be...wait, I remember something back when we first met. He said something about that he used to sing to his sister back at the orphanage. I think that the orphanage has something to do with that.

“Mason...I remember something you mentioned before, does your childhood involve about the orphanage?” I asked, causing Mason to flinch before going silent and glancing away from me. “Mason, you can tell us and you don’t have to be afraid on what you might tell us. But if you don’t want to….I understand.”

“But...why?” Mason asked.

“Because we’re friends, and I understand if you’re not comfortable to tell us. I promise I won’t ask again, and if your sister tries to tell us, I won’t listen. It’s a promise.” I said, smiling towards him. Mason looked at me for a minute before saying “You know, you’re quite naive, but...you’re a good friend.” I smiled happily to hear that. It seems that Mason finally calmed down.

“Hey Ren, can I tell you something?” Mason asked.

“Yeah sure, what is it?” I asked curiously.

“I...overheard Kaede’s story.” Mason admitted, much to my surprise.

“You...did?” No wonder why he took so long. I was wondering why he took so long to get a bucket of water.

“And I’ve been thinking my times back in the orphanage. You have to understand, the times there were...unpleasant. I was thinking if you all wouldn’t understand and telling it to you all would make me feel uncomfortable.” Mason explained.

“Hey, we’ll understand, but if you feel uncomfortable, we’ll just wait till you have feel relax and okay to tell us about your past.” I said, smiling at him. Mason covered his mouth with his scarf, but I could see the blush he was giving.

“Yeah...okay.” Mason replied before I heard him muttering "Even if I told him much about my life back then, would he believe me? Besides, I need to go home back to Mistress, she's probably worried and wondering where I am." Huh? Mistress? Who is he talking about? 

“Ren! Mason!” We turned around to see our friends running towards us. “Is everything alright?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, just talking, that’s all.” I said, grinning. “But anyway, Mason doesn’t want to talk about it. He said it was...unpleasant. So he doesn’t want to talk about it until he feels like it would be the right time.” I explained.

“So you don’t want me to tell them as well?” Carrie asked her brother, which he nodded.

“Yes, please don’t Carrie.” Mason replied sadly.

“O-okay.” Carrie nodded, understanding her brother’s problem.

“But if its uncomfortable as he says, then we understand if he doesn’t want to tell us yet.” Twilight nodded, understanding of Mason’s problems.

“Yeah…” Mason replied.

“So anyway, about Kaede, did she?...” I asked, which Kaede nodded.

“Yeah, I told them, but they cheered me up with a hug and I felt happy again.” Kaede smiled softly.

“That is true, but honestly, to think that she would have a rude stepmother who doesn’t show respect to a young girl like her. That is so plain rude and disgusting!” Rarity exclaimed.

“For sure…” Applejack nodded in agreement.

“Well, when you have the time to tell us Mason, we promise that we’ll understand and help you no matter what.” Fluttershy said, smiling sweetly at him. Mason looked away and blushed and said “T-thank you…”

“Come on everypony! Let’s forget about this whole sad thing and go over to Sugarcube Corner to eat some delicious sweets!” Pinkie exclaimed, pulling out some cupcakes out of her mane and started eating them.

“Um...how did-”

“Just...don’t question it, Kaede.” I said, sweat-dropping a little while seeing Pinkie handing a cupcake to Carrie, who ate it cheerfully.

“Alright, I guess a little snack will help me, at least.” Mason said, smiling softly.

“Yeah, I’m so hungry!” Kodi exclaimed, causing us to laugh. Same old Kodiak, I guess. Well, can’t blame him, I am getting hungry as well. Well, what turned out for us following and watching over the Crusaders turned into hearing our friends stories, and I gotta tell you, I did not see that twist coming. I mean, who knew Twilight and the others got their Cutie-Marks all thanks to Dash’s Sonic Rainboom, I guess you can call it fate or destiny. Oh well, doesn’t matter, all this thinking is making me hungry. While we headed over to Sugarcube Corner, I began to think about Mason’s sadness towards telling his and Carrie’s childhood and this 'Mistress' he was talking about. Maybe he’ll tell us someday. I just know it, all I gotta do...is believe in him.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 24 - Owl's Well That Ends Well
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Wow, interesting…” Twilight said as she began taking notes from me. Apparently, she invited me, Kodi, Kaede, Mason, and his little sister as she wants to conduct research much about our world. I told her that humans uses electricity for many electronic devices like phones, television, and other stuff. Mason even told her about our history about the wars humans went through, the Great Depression, and how our world was made. He seems more smarter than me if he knows all this info.

“I gotta say, who would’ve thought the way how Humans resolve this matter would be warfare and such.” Twilight said, copying every note me and Mason told her.

“Well yeah, but our world isn’t in war anymore. I mean, no one in the nation resulted in war anyway.” I said, smiling happily.

“It’s true, we resolve this matter with peace treaties and the technology today is advanced than the ones back in the 1900s.” Mason added, glancing away.

“I see…” Twilight rubbed her chin in thought before smiling. “Anyway, I’m just glad you guys came over.”

“Anytime Twilight.” I nodded as I turned to Kodi and the girls. Kaede was reading a pop-up book to both Carrie and Kodi while me and Mason were telling Twilight much about our planet.

“Though, I must ask. Why did you want us to tell us about our world?” Mason asked, raising a brow. Is he getting suspicious of her or something? “If you’re planning on stealing info about us and using it to hurt us, trust me, you’ll pay dearly.”

“No no no, I just want to learn much about your planet.” Twilight assured quickly. Good choice there. “We would never go to war with your planet! Ponies don’t do violence that much around this world. We never resulted in war in ages.” Never went to war for ages? What, like...100 years or something?

“...Very well.” Mason said, crossing his arms while he closed his eyes. Sometimes, I’ll never be able to read this guy. “But that is enough for today, thanks for inviting us Twilight.”

“Anytime, I mean we’re friends, right?” Twilight shrugged with a smile.

“Y-yes...I suppose…” Mason glanced away, blushing a bit. It’s been a week since I asked him about his past, but he was afraid of revealing it. Could his and Carrie’s past be so bad?

“Anyway, Ren, about your Hacking Gun…” Huh? “I was curious to study more about it.”

“Well I kinda haven’t been using that thing since there’s hasn’t been much threat to Ponyville.” I shrugged.

“He’s right, with the power from that Hacking Gun, you hold great responsibility to it, Ren.” Mason said with a serious expression.

“Yeah, I guess so…” I replied, rubbing my head in embarrassment. “But I mostly use that thing to levitate my food, drink, and my mangas by using ‘Move’.”

“Well either way, I’m just curious to know how it functions.” Twilight smiled happily. Before any of us could respond, we heard somebody coming downstairs and we turned to see Spike coming down with a bunch of stuff in his hands.

“Twilight, I got the items we need to watch the meteor shower tonight.” Meteor shower?

“Oh right, thanks Spike.” Twilight replied with a smile.

“Huh? What’s it for Twilight?” Kodi asked as he, Carrie, and Kaede finished with the book Kaede was reading to them as they came over to us.

“Oh, it’s for watching for the meteors showers tonight.” Twilight replied, much to our shock.

“W-w-what?! A meteor shower?!” I asked in shock before making an excited look. “Awesome!”

“I want to see a meteor shower!” Carrie exclaimed happily.

“Count me in as well. This is my first time to actually see one.” Kaede said with a soft smile.

“I guess I could see a meteor shower, at least.” Mason sighed, letting out a soft smile.

“Okay, I don’t mind. You guys can go help Spike set up the stuff. Here, I have a list.” Twilight’s horn started glowing as she levitated a long paper, explaining step-by-step of setting up a good spot for a meteor shower. Wow, since when she made this?

“Well, I’ll help Spike prepare our little picnic for the special event.” Mason suggested.

“Really? It might take a while.” Twilight said, raising a brow at him.

“Yeah, besides, I got this.” Spike assured as he started to have trouble carrying the stuff.

“Are you sure?” Kodi asked in concern. “You seemed to have...trouble carrying it.”

“I told, I’m-WHOA!” Spike accidentally slipped and dropped all the items on the floor. He slowly got up and started rubbing his head. “...Okay, maybe a little.”

“You guys go invite the others, I’ll help Spike.” Mason said as he began picking up the items on the floor, with help from his two pet squirrels and Spike. “And Carrie...please be okay and don’t leave Kaede or Ren’s side, got it?”

“Yes Mason, I got it.” Carrie nodded with a smile.

“Alright, we’ll see you guys later. Bye Twilight, Mason, and Spike.” I waved goodbye as I opened the door for the girls and we exited the library.

“See ya Nate and Maddy!” Kodi barked at them, frightening them a bit. Well, at least they’re trying to be friends with Kodi.

“Well anyway, bye.” I said as I closed the door before turning to the girls. “So anyway, let’s split up and meet up with the others.”

“Sounds like a plan. I’ll take Carrie with me and get Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie.” Kaede agreed with the plan.

“You don’t have too!” Huh? I turned around to see Pinkie in front of me, causing me to shriek and fall on my butt. Seriously? How is she doing that? I didn’t even hear her coming….Actually, let’s not ask that. Don’t wanna do the same thing Twilight had to endure. “I already heard everything! I gotta bring me my favorite cake goods! I’ll see you all at the picnic!”

“Hold on, how did you-” With that, she was gone before Kaede could finish her sentence. I got up with a sweat-dropped and a nervous grin. “How did she do that?”

“It’s best if you don’t ask.” I replied.

“That’s a question but without an answer.” Kodi added, sweat-dropping as well.

“Well, I guess me and Carrie will go and get Applejack and Rarity.” Kaede said before turning to Carrie. “Sounds good Carrie?”

“Mm-hmm.” Carrie nodded as I let out a smile.

“Okay, we’ll meet up at the hill later.” I suggested, which they nodded in agreement as we went to different directions of the town. While Kaede and Carrie go get Rarity and Applejack, me and Kodiak are gonna get both Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Well, it might difficult to know where Rainbow Dash lives at, so I’ll just go to Fluttershy’s cottage first.




We finally arrived to Fluttershy’s cottage as I knocked on her door.

“So do you think Fluttershy will be able to come to the picnic?” Kodi asked curiously.
“Course she will bud.” I replied, scratching his chin, much to his amusement. “Sure she might be busy with all her animal buddies, but I’m sure she’ll like to come.” Suddenly, the door opened, revealing…

“Oh...It’s you.” I said, glaring at the white rabbit. Haven’t seen him for a while. “So Angel, do you know where Fluttershy is?” Angel blew a raspberry at me, much to my annoyance. Jeez, what a spoilsport!

“I’m coming!” Fluttershy then rushed to the door, happy to see me and Kodi. “Hi Ren, Hi Kodi.” Fluttershy bent down to Kodi’s height and rubbed his head, much to his joy as he began wagging his tail happily. “So what brings you two here?”

“Guess what? Twilight is inviting us for a picnic and watch some meteor showers. Would you like to come with us?” I asked with a smile. Fluttershy brightened at that idea while blushing and replied “Why I would love to? I would even bring Angel with me. Sounds good, Angel?”

Angel tapped his foot impatiently while glaring at me. Man, I picture bunnies as cute and adorable pets, but this one is just an exception, he’s the opposite of that.

“I’ll...take that as a yes.” Fluttershy chuckled nervously before turning to me.

“Sounds good, wanna walk together?” I suggested, much to her surprise.

“R-really?”

“Of course, I don’t mind.” I smiled, noticing the blush marks on her cheeks.

“Yeah, we’re all friends anyway.” Kodi nodded happily.

“Okay, just give me a second, would ya?”  Fluttershy asked politely as she walked back into her cottage and as five minutes passed, she came back with a basket on your hooves. “Okay, I’m ready.”

“Yay, let’s go!” Kodi exclaimed as he started running.

“Hey Kodi, wait for us!” I called out to him before me and Fluttershy went after him. As soon as we caught up with Kodi, I looked back at Fluttershy and said “Anyway, what’s with the basket, Flutters?”

“Oh, just to carry some supplies for the picnic, also to carry Angel.” She explained as the little white devil in rabbit skin came out of its basket and blew a raspberry at me. Jeez, what did I ever do to him to get to his bad side?

“I see, well we should arrived to the hill in about five minutes…” I said, trying to remember where the spot Twilight told us to go to. As we kept running, something crashed into me.

WHAM!

“OW!” I fell on my butt again while rubbing my aching head. Oh crap-baskets, what the heck was that?!

“Hey, watch it!” I slowly opened my eyes to see…

“Rainbow Dash?” It was her as she was rubbing her head to get rid of the pain she received. Though, she wasn’t alone as Scootaloo was with her too. “Scootaloo? What are you two doing here?”

“What do you think? We were heading to the picnic Twilight talked.” Rainbow replied, flying back up.

“Huh? Hey Dashy, how did you know that?” Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion.

“Oh, I was sleeping on a tree branch near Twilight’s library and overheard the conversation, so…” Rainbow rubbed her head bashfully while chuckling nervously. “So I thought that maybe I should join in as well, along with Scootaloo.”

“Yeah, and once she told me about watching the meteor showers! I was so excited that I couldn’t say no to my favorite pony!” Scootaloo exclaimed.

“Aww, that’s nice.” Fluttershy commented

“Yeah…” I slowly got up and smiled nervously. “Well anyway, I guess there’s no need to tell you then.”

“Good, now come on! We might hurry if we flew or run or whatever!” Rainbow then flew off with Scootaloo on her back.

“Hey!” Kodi exclaimed.

“Don’t worry, we’ll catch up! Good thing I brought this with me.” I said as I took out a capsule and hit the button, throwing it on the ground before it poofed and into my hoverboard. Apparently, a while back, I discovered a button on my hoverboard, and curiously, I pushed it and it reverted into a capsule. It was like something from Dragon Ball Z. It was so awesome! Whoever created that hoverboard, I give you my thanks!...I guess.

“Hop on!” I said, jumping onto my hoverboard. Kodi jumped on it and grabbed ahold of my legs by biting on my pants, not that I mind. Fluttershy started flying and said “Good idea Ren, looks like we don’t need to walk all the way up the hill. It does feel nice flying.”

I gave her a thumbs up and said “I always come prepare...sometimes.” I chuckled a bit before we started flying towards the hill.



Mason’s POV
Okay, that should be the last of them. Me and Spike finally finished up decorating the hill. It was finally almost time for the meteor showers to begin as we finally prepared everything necessary for the picnic.

“That should be the last of them, right?” Twilight asked, levitating a clipboard.

“Of course Twilight, we worked real hard on this.” Spike responded with a salute.

“Yes, everything is all set up.” I nodded as I started feeding both Nate and Maddy some peanuts while they sat on my head.

“Good, now the others should arrive here right about…”

“We’re here!” We turned to see Applejack, Apple Bloom, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Kaede, and Carrie finally arriving.

“Now.” Twilight checked that off her clipboard.

“Hey big brother, sorry if we took so long.” Carrie apologized to me.

“Nah, it’s okay Carrie, we were just finishing up the decorations.” I assured, ruffling her hair a bit, not that she mind.

“Hey guys!” We turned to see Rainbow Dash flying towards us with Scootaloo on her back. “You all here to watch the meteor shower as well?”

“Yeah, and you finally arrived early like all of us.” Kaede said happily before noticing something. “Hey, where’s Fluttershy, Kodi, and Ren?”

“We’re right here!” We looked behind Rainbow Dash and became shocked to see Ren flying down towards us...in a hoverboard. Huh, I guess he wasn’t exaggerating about that part.

“Sorry if we’re late.” Fluttershy apologized.

“No no no, it’s okay Fluttershy, you three finally arrived.” Twilight assured with a smile.

“Yeah, thank goodness we didn’t arrive late. I didn’t want to miss this for the whole world.” Ren rubbed his head bashfully as he jumped off his hoverboard, along with Kodiak and pressed a red button on the underside of the board, transforming it into...a capsule? Why do I have a feeling I’ve seen something like that?

“Me neither, I bet it’s going to be so amazing!” Fluttershy nodded in agreement.

“Yeah, me too!” Kodi started wagging his tail happily as Fluttershy was about to put down her basket.

“Oh wait, allow me!” Spike came over and set up a picnic blanket over for them.

“Oh, thank you.” Fluttershy thanked.

“Yes, and have some snacks.” I brought over a bowl of fruit and punch, and a bunch of cups. Ren, Carrie, and Kaede grabbed some cups and pour some punch on it before drinking some.

“Wow, so delicious!” Ren complimented.

“This is probably the best punch I ever drink!” Kaede agreed.

“Thanks big brother!” Carrie thanked me.

“A-anytime…” I blushed a bit, hearing a chuckle from my two pet squirrels. I then noticed Rainbow Dash lowered her head and grabbed an apple with her teeth. Kodi did the same thing as he got his own apple and started eating it.

“Wow, Twilight! You’re lucky to have such a rad assistant. I wish I had someone to do whatever I told them.” Rainbow complimented.

“Ooh! Ooh! Me! Me! Me!” Scootaloo exclaimed, bouncing up and down. “I’ll do whatever you want, Rainbow Dash!”

“Oh yeah, Pipsqueak?” Rainbow Dash asked, making a sly look. I sighed and shook my head at her. She’s just using Scootaloo for her laziness. “How about taking out the trash?” She threw her finished apple in front of Scootaloo.

“Yes ma’am!” Scootaloo nodded as she picked up the apple with her teeth and ran off. Well, I stand correct.

“And don’t forget my big brother, he also help setting this up as well.” Carrie reminded them.

“Oh right, sorry if I didn’t thank you Mason.” Kaede apologized.

“It’s quite alright. I was just helping out, that’s all.” I assured with a soft smile.

“Hey, where’s Pinkie?” Ren asked, looking around.

“I’m right here!” Huh? Ren turned around and shrieked upon seeing Pinkie right behind him. But...how did she do that? I didn’t even hear or see her come right behind him. “Sorry if I’m late for the party! Just went to grab these!” Pinkie showed us a tray of cupcakes towards us, much to our joy.

“Hooray!” Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, Carrie, and Scootaloo exclaimed as they each took cupcakes and started eating some of it.

“This is so good!” Ren said, grabbing two cupcakes for himself and Kodi. “Thanks Pinkie!”

“Don’t thank me, thank Spike for asking me to make these for the picnic!” Pinkie explained. I glanced at Spike and smiled softly to see that he would do something so nice for us. I haven’t even thought of that at all.

"Well, do we have Spike and Mason to thank again for this amazing spread? Aren’t they simply amazing?” Rarity asked, smiling softly towards the dragon.

“Oh, come on!” Spike rubbed his head bashfully while blushing.

“Y-yes, we were just helping, that’s all.” I replied, trying to hide my blush. Suddenly, Spike was pulled into a noogie by Pinkie as she exclaimed “Little Spikey-Wikey! Who knew that big ferocious dragon started off so cutesy wootsy?”

“Yeah, you too big brother!” Carrie exclaimed as she hugged me tightly.

“Yeah, thanks…” I nodded to her while returning the hug to my little sister.

“Spike and Mason, you two are such little stars that me and Kaede made this little bow tie for you guys.” Rarity replied as she and Kaede presented two big bow ties, which was studded in gems. Rarity then placed the ties on Spike using her magic while Kaede put it on my necktie of my sweater.

“Yep, this is all for making those delicious breakfasts for us.” Kaede said with a smile. I looked at her with confusion before looking back at the bow tie she gave me, wondering why they would give something like that to me.

“Gosh, you guys are embarrassing me.” Spike replied with a blush. “Stop it.” Everyone went silent before Spike turned to me, Ren, and Twilight. “Alright, your turn Mason.” I glared at him as he soon realized that I wasn’t gonna appreciate him. He’s taking this praising too seriously, besides, I don’t like being praise for things...well, not that much.

“Well, you always do awesome things! Thanks Spike and Mason!” Ren complimented us, causing me to glance away nervously.

“Yeah, I don’t need to be thanked. I was just...helping out, nothing at all.” I added with a sigh.

“Come on, you aren’t!” Ren said with a big grin on his face. “I mean, you helped us a lot, and we had to do something to thank you.”

“Yeah, you were always cooking, cleaning, training, and helped us.” Kodi began summarizing all the things I done for them while we started living in this world. I told them before, there’s no need to thank me. I was just helping out, like I did for her….No, no need to worry. I’m sure me and my sister can find our way back home so that we can see her again.

“They do have points, I just don’t understand why don’t you love being praise?” Twilight questioned me.

“I-it’s just that...Never mind.” I shook my head and tried to ignore their curious expressions by playing with my two pet squirrels. You know, I could’ve sworn that I almost felt my sister looking at me with sadness, probably because she understands how I feel.

“Hey everypony! Look!” Sweetie Belle pointed upwards to the nightsky. “It’s starting!” Soon, Carrie, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo sat right next to Sweetie Belle as we began to watch the night sky. Just then, a spec of light fell down in the sky and soon, many fell down, starting the meteor shower. I smiled softly upon seeing the meteor showers and saw everyone’s reactions. Fluttershy and Twilight were sitting next to Spike, Kodi, Ren with smiles on their faces. I don’t understand how can an average kid like him could get girls to like him. Probably from his optimistic personality of his or something. Kaede, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Pinkie were amazed to see so many fallen meteors. You know, it is quite beautiful, seeing so many meteors falling down...falling down...falling-

“UGH!” I exclaimed, putting my hand onto my forehead. What the heck? Where did this sudden headache appeared? What’s-



Suddenly, I instantly saw a bunch of meteors crashing into the streets of our home, so many of them. Falling down, destroying everything wherever it’s crashing into. It was like...the end of the world.




“Big Brother?”

“Mason?”

“You okay?” Huh? I turned to see my friends looking over me with worried. The comments were from Carrie, Rarity, and Ren.

“Y-yeah, just a headache, that’s all.” I responded, covering my mouth with my scarf. What...was that? An illusion, or what is...No, I better not thinking about it. Not right now, at least.

I then felt something grabbing onto my arm as I looked down to see Carrie holding onto me with a worried look.

“Hey, are you sure big brother?” Carrie asked.

“I told you, I’m fine.” I chuckled nervously, causing her to pout a little. Soon after the shower ending, the girls, Ren, Kodi, Kaede, my sister and I gathered in the picnic Spike and I set up and began eating more of the treats. Pinkie, Ren, and Kodi were happily munching on one of the chocolate cookies, leaving many crumbs on their mouths. Though, I’m surprised for a dog to eat a chocolate cookie. But then again, this is a planet filled with magic, so it makes sense for some talking dog to eat chocolate and/or fudge. Kaede and Carrie were eating some chocolate strawberries and Fluttershy dipped her head into the cookie bowl and gently took a cookie with her teeth and began munching it.

“Aren’t you gonna eat, Mason?” Kaede asked, munching on another chocolate strawberry.

“Sorry, but I’m not a fan of chocolate.” I replied, much to a certain pink pony’s shock. She instantly grabbed my scarf and put her face close to mine.

“What?! How can you not be a fan of chocolate?! Chocolate is the most delicious thing in the whole wide of Equestria!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“I-I’m sorry?” I apologized with a sweat-drop and surprise expression.

“Really? Didn’t know you hate chocolate.” Ren said, biting on another chocolate cookie. I let out a ‘hmph’ sound and crossed my arms and ignored him.

“Oh well, at least we still have to thank Mason for setting this party and Spike asking Pinkie to make these cookies, huh Spike?” Twilight called, but receive no answer. “Spike?”

“ZZZ...ZZZ…” Wait, isn’t that snoring? We turned around to see Spike sleeping, but his head was inside of the punch bowl.

“Ooh, poor little thing.” Rarity said with a concern expression.

“Aww...He’s worked himself to the bone.” Kaede added.

“And no the punch has been...spiked!” Pinkie joked, causing everyone, except me, to laugh happily.

“Nice one, eh Kodiak?” Ren called, wiping a tear from his eye before noticing that he didn’t get a response. “Kodi?” He turned around to see Kodi sleeping with a stuffed stomach.

“Oh boy…” Ren went over and picked him up with a soft smile on his face. “Seems like he’s all tired out. Well I guess I’ll see you all later.”

“Yeah, I better get home as well.” Twilight nodded before she walked over and picked Spike up on her back. “It was fun watching the meteor shower with you guys!”

“Bye!” Everyone said while I waved goodbye to her before we all departed our way back home. Me, Ren, Kodi, Kaede, and my little sister were walking back to our home-ship as Ren was carrying a sleeping Kodi and I was busy carrying a tired Carrie.

“So, how do you like that special bow I made you, Mason?” Kaede asked with a sweet smile. I blushed a bit and glanced away and replied “I-it was a nice gift, but like I said, I don’t need something just because I just helped out.”

“Of course you do, Mason.” I looked at Ren in confusion as he smiled and continued “I mean, you helped us a lot and we didn’t know how to repay you. Think of it...as a thank you from us.”

I sighed and let out a soft smile and said “For a kid, you sure know how to stay optimistic and say some encouraging words.”

“Hey, that’s just my personality trait.” Ren blushed a bit as soon as we arrived to our home.

“Well, I guess I’ll see you guys in the morning, goodnight.” Kaede let out a yawn as she was the first to enter the place and went to sleep.

“Yeah, see ya in the morning you two.” Ren added before entering the home-ship with the sleeping dog in his arms. I sighed and looked at the ribbon while holding my sister on my arms. It does feel nice to be appreciated for my work, I guess…

It sorta reminds of her kindness back then. I don’t know how I got inside of that pod, but right now, I need to stop worrying and wait till Princess Celestia finds a way to bring us back home….I hope.

“ZZZ…” Huh? I glanced at my sister, who apparently now fallen asleep. Heh, I guess I’ll take her on her bed and go take a nap as well. But still? What did I saw back then? A bunch of meteors fallen into the streets? I know it wasn’t a dream? Just...what the heck was that?



Mason’s Dream
I was walking through the streets with a three year old girl in my hands. We saw how dark it was getting here in the city, so we immediately sat down on a park bench and just sat there. 

“Mason...I’m scared….” The little girl started crying as she hugged me tightly and I hugged her back and whispered “It’s going to be okay, we’re gonna be alright. I promise.”

I...I remember this. This is from back when our parents completely left us, well more like, they left each other. Am I….dreaming this? That little girl...is Carrie when she was so young.

I then felt my sister’s stomach rumble as we ended our hug and my sister rubbing her aching stomach.

“I-I’m so hungry…” Carrie whined. I couldn’t buy anything due to us not having any money. I feel like such a helpless brother. I can’t do anything to help no one… 

Huh? I then noticed a bunch of people talking, some dark-skinned and light-skinned were having some sort of conversation and they were wearing fancy suits like those rich people wear. But my main concern...is that purse that light-skinned woman was holding. It must have some money, but...is it right to steal?...

Why am I even asking that? I have no choice, it’s either kill or be killed, and I rather sacrifice my life in order to protect my sister. I told my sister to stay here as I slowly walked towards the strangers, not even bothering to listen to their conversations. As I slowly reached for the woman’s purse and I finally got the twenty out of her pocket, someone grabbed me by the hand as I looked to see one of the men who was in the conversation. He had a slightly tanned skin wearing a black suit with a white necktie and brown shoes.

“Who’s the kid?” One of the men asked. I instantly grew afraid that they might try to hurt me or worse.

“Don’t know, I have never seen him in my life before.” 

“You think he’s just some random kid?” 

“Who knows? Eh? Hey, was he steal some money from your wife, Carter?”

The man who was holding onto me looked closely at my right arm and saw the money I stole.

“I-it is…” The man then turned to me with soft expression. “Young man, you should know that stealing isn’t a good thing.” He said in a stern, yet calm and not enraged voice. 

“What? This kid’s a thief! Don’t worry Carter, I’ll take care of him.” A man wearing dark sunglasses and with a white beard about to approach me and probably hurt me until the woman that I robbed stepped forward. 

“I won’t allow you to do that, Eugene!” The woman exclaimed, surprising the old man named Eugene.

“But he tried to steal from you!”

“But I still got my pouch back now, don’t I?”

“That is not the point nor does it excuse what he done!” The old man known as Eugene argued.

“Then what does, if I may ask?” The man named Carter questioned, crossing his arms. I noticed that he loosen the grip around my arm. Now’s my chance! I instantly ran away and ran back where Carrie was sitting on the park bench.

“M-Mason, what’s wrong-”

“We need to go now! Come on!” I instantly got her to ride on my back and we instantly ran away. 

“Hey wait!” Huh? We then saw our pursuer, a little girl who had light skinned with two blonde pigtails and wearing a pink dress. I-Is she after us too? I r-really screw up this bad! Me and Carrie run towards an empty alleyway and tried to evade her, but she was quite quick. Suddenly, we stopped ourselves in front of a dead end as I went pale and saw the little girl walking towards me.

“Hey, it’s okay. I won’t hurt you, I promise.” Does she take me for a fool? I put Carrie down and whispered “Please stay here and don’t move.”

I then confronted her with a serious expression and said “Hey, l-leave us alone! We were trying to find some money! We’ll leave you alone for good if you leave us alone!”

“B-but, I promise that I won’t hurt you.” Huh? I gave her a surprise expression. Is she….serious? Does she care for me?

“Oh, don’t worry, I’ll handle him.” I was then punched in the face before falling down on the ground and began falling unconscious.

“Big brother! Big brother!” Carrie...I’m sorry that I got you into this mess.



“Eh?...” I slowly woken up from that dream...no, that nightmare. I realized that I was in my bed in the second floor of the home-ship. I then noticed a tear on my left eye coming out. Why...was I crying? Hold on, I remember, from what I’ve seen from my nightmare. It was actually something from my past, on how I became when I met her. If it wasn’t for her, she wouldn’t have watch over Carrie for me because of my training as her...no, it’s best not to think about it for a while. I just...wish I knew where she was.

That’s when I noticed that Carrie was sleeping right next to me, with my two squirrel friends, Nate and Maddy sleeping with her while she gently wraps them her arms. I smiled softly at her while she rest up. It was nice seeing her soft smile. Wait, I then started smelling something. What’s that burning smell?

“No! That’s not right! GAH!” What the?! I slowly got out of my bed without waking up of my sister nor my two little friends as I quickly made my way downstairs and saw that Ren and his little dog friend were cooking something from the stove. What the heck?!

“Ren, I don’t think an omelette is supposed to be burn!” Kodi exclaimed.

“I know! I know! I’m trying!” Ren exclaimed, trying to stop the smoking.

“What’s going on?” I asked, widening my eyes in shock. Ren and Kodiak turned to me with surprised expressions.

“Oh hey Mason…” Ren grinned sheepishly at me as I gave him a glare.

“Ren? What’s going on?”  I then turned to see Kaede walking out of the dining room, still wearing her pajamas. Wait a minute, how did she went past my room while I was sleeping? Was it...because of that dream?

“Huh? Mason? I never expected you to wake up that early!” Kaede exclaimed in shock.

“Alright, what’s going on?” I asked, raising a brow at them.

“We were just making breakfast for you.” Kodi answered, his ears drooping.

“Yeah, we were trying to do something nice for you by cooking you breakfast.” Ren sweat-dropped and released a sheepish smile. “But it seems like it didn’t go so well.”

“Yeah, I tried to get Ren to let me cook since I’m experience in something like that, but he kept being stubborn and kept saying that he could cook!” Kaede exclaimed, glaring at Ren.

“Well yeah, but the only thing I was good at was making pancakes, but I thought I could make something else for you.” Ren shrugged sheepishly.

“I-it’s quite alright, thanks for the help anyway.” I sighed and shook my head in disappointment. “I can cook it for myself and you guys.”

“Ahh, but we were just doing something nice for you.” Kodi complained, puffing his cheeks. You know, that pup reminds me of Carrie whenever she tries to help me with something.

“I-it’s quite, I told you all that I can do it myself.” I repeated, adding a little force on that sentence. “Though, I guess I could make something different like...chicken omelette.”

“Sounds good, what do you say Ren?” Kaede asked, before we noticed sweat forming around Ren. “Something wrong?”

“Well...haven’t you guys noticed the food around Equestria?” Ren asked nervously. What? Actually, we’ve been eating nothing but pancakes, hayburgers, and anything else that has vegetables, fruits, and something hay-relating….Oh…

“Actually, I see your point now Ren….” I closed my eyes and began to realize that if anypony saw us eat meat, they might see us as a threat. It’s best not to do that.

“Huh? No, seriously, what’s wrong with eating with meat?” Kaede asked.

“Wait, what are you guys talking about? You guys eat meat?!” Kodi exclaimed.

“Yeah, sorry if we didn’t tell you about it Kodi. Though, I thought a dog like you should know since they eat meat as well.” Ren said with a confused expression, causing Kodi to let out his tongue in disgust.

“No thank you! I rather eat sweets, fruits, and vegetables. I’m not a cannibalism or something!”

“I see...sorry for asking bud…” Ren sweat-dropped nervously.

“Well okay, we don’t have to eat meat till we get back home, I guess…” Kaede smiled nervously with a sweat-dropped.

“Huh, what’s going on down here?” Huh? Isn’t that…

“Carrie?” Kodi asked in surprised. We all turned around to see Carrie climbing down the ladder with a tired look and my two squirrel friends on her friends.

“Oh, hey sis, didn’t mean to wake you up.” I apologized to her.

Carrie let out a yawned and said “It’s okay big brother, just a little tired, that’s all.” Suddenly, she started to sniff something in the air. “Hey, why does it smell like something burned in here?”

“I know, I know…” Ren complained with a deadpan expression. “I should’ve just made pancakes instead of omelettes…”

Carrie, Nate, Maddy, Kaede and Kodi chuckled at his reaction while I made a small smile. Sometimes, that boy acts like a little five year old, almost like Carrie.



Later
Ren’s POV
Soon after, we changed out of our PJ’s and ate our breakfast, which consists sliced potatoes and pancakes with maple syrup, which Mason made, with help with his two pet squirrels. Kaede and I helped by setting up the plates and such while Carrie and Kodi sat on the couch in the living room, waiting for breakfast to come. Soon after we finish eating, I noticed Kodiak lying on the floor and Mason’s pet squirrels laying inside of his scarf, their stomachs all stuffed up while Carrie let out a burp.

“Excuse me…” Carrie muttered, her cheeks blushing in embarrassment.

“I’ll take that burp as a thanks for loving my cooking.” Mason replied with a soft smile.

“You know, I’m quite surprised that you know how to cook. How did you know to clean, cook, and stuff?” Kaede asked, causing Mason and Carrie to tense up a bit.

“U-umm…” Mason seems quite stressed, along with Carrie. Does it have something to do with their ‘unpleasant’ memories?

“It’s best not to ask Kaede.” I quickly spoke up, confusing Kaede and surprising Mason. “I mean, Mason probably learned the same way as you did back when we were living on Earth.”

“Oh...Okay, I guess…” Kaede shrugged as she got up from her seat and headed to the kitchen. Mason sighed as he turned to me with a serious expression, but I could’ve sworn that he made a smile through that scarf of his.

“Thank you Ren…” I became surprised to hear him say that as I smiled happily at him.

“Hey, anytime Mason.” I nodded.

“Yeah, you’re the best Ren!” Carrie added, causing me to chuckle a little. Suddenly, we heard the door knocking, strange, wonder who it is? I got out of my seat and headed to the door and opened it, seeing Twilight.
“Hey Ren, glad to see you and the others awake.” Seems like somepony is having a great day. “I need you four to come to the library, I have a surprise for you all.”

“A surprise?” I asked.

“What kind of surprise?” I heard Kaede asked.

“Oh, you’ll see, come on!” Twilight said, running out of the house in joy. What is getting her so excited?

“What’s up with her?” Mason asked as he and Carrie coming over with confusion.

“Don’t know, let’s go after her, I guess…” I shrugged, grabbing my Hacking Gun and following after her. Did something caused Twilight to go this excited. What? A book or something? That’s all I could think of.

“Come on Kodiak!” I called out to him.

“Coming!” Kodi ran for us, his stomach still stuffed up from the breakfast. Jeez, after we finished up with Twilight and the others, I’m gonna take him to exercise.



We arrived to the Golden Oaks Library and found everypony else were already here, chatting near Twilight’s home.

“Hey girls, what’s up?” I asked with a grin on my face.

“Oh, we were just talking about Twilight’s newest assistant.” Rarity answered.

“New assistant?” Kaede asked.

“Yep, say hello to Owlicious!” Twilight introduced us to a brown owl with two black dotted eyes, which seems pretty weird. It was sitting on a hook that birds always sit whenever they rest up or something. However, I was gawking at that name. Owlicious? That seems like a really weird name, I could’ve name it better than that like I did for Kodiak.

“Ahh…” Both Kaede and Carrie began to like that bird. You know, I’ve only seen those things in a picture book once, but seeing it in real life seems quite amazing.

“Intriguing…” Mason muttered in amazement. “Twilight, where did you get this little guy?” Mason walked over and gently scratched it’s chin, causing it to purr. I didn’t even know that it could even purr.

“Oh, I allowed him to stay in the house after he retrieved one of my letters after the wind blown it away. He then assisted me during the night, and so, I decided to make him my ‘junior assistant’.” Twilight explained with a grin.

“Ahh, he’s so cute!” Carrie complimented.

“So we got a new animal friend, awesome!” Kodi exclaimed in joy, wagging his tail in joy.

“Tell me about it.” I nodded in agreement. “Gotta say Twilight, I wish you and Owlicious on a happy friendship.”

“Thanks Ren…” Twilight blushed a little. Wonder what’s wrong with her with all that blushing?

“Yeah, Owlicious is a fantastical, fluffalicious feathery little friend!” Pinkie commented. “I’m...HOOKED!”

We all chuckled at that little pun of hers. “Good one Pinks.” I grinned at her.

“Well besides that, he’s just so cute…” Kaede said, petting Owlicious a bit.

“He’s just so cute.” Huh? We turned to Spike, who was sitting on a branch, reading a book. He had that irritated look, wonder what’s got his tail? He then noticed us and said “Uh...yeah. Cute. He’s quite...the charmer.” Seriously, what’s going on with him? I have a feeling this has something to do with Owlicious, right?

“Spike? Is there something wrong?” Mason asked, raising a brow at him.

“Nothing…” Spike turned away in anger.

“Well, Owlicious is just such a star that I just had to make this little bow for him.” Rarity spoke up, putting another bow on Owlicious. Hey, that bow looks identical to the ones Mason and Spike were wearing. Suddenly, I noticed Spike’s face was turning red as he got off the branch and went back inside of the library, slamming the door shut.

“What’s he all saddle sore about?” Applejack asked.

“Don’t know…” Kaede replied in a concern expression. “But if I had to guess, I say he’s…”

“Jealous?” Rainbow suggested.

“Yeah, that.” Kaede nodded.

“Maybe Spike feels threatened or worried that Owlicious will replace him?” Fluttershy suggested.

“What? Pfft!” Twilight started laughing at that possibility. “That’s crazy! Spike knows he can’t be replaced.” Twilight assured.

“I don’t know Twilight, from the way he acted, it is possible that he is jealous and fears that you might get rid of him.” Mason said, surprising us all.

“What? Are you sure about that Mason?” I asked in worried.

“Yeah, I’m sure Spike will know soon, right?” Kodi added.

“Yeah, but still, I can understand his anger though.” Understand his anger? What do you mean by that? “I’ll...be right back.” With that, Mason headed inside of the library, leaving us in confusion.

“Sometimes, it’s hard to read that guy.” Rainbow shook her head. You can say that again…

“Well either way, you think Mason is gonna try to talk to Spike about his behavior?” Fluttershy asked in worried.

“Don’t worry, I know my big brother will do alright.” Carrie said happily. “He’s always there for me and everyone else!” Wow, the way Carrie said it. It seems as though he’s like a worldwide famous butler or something, but still, he told us he was a prodigy of Kendo, so...just who is he?



Mason’s POV
As soon as I walked in the Golden Oaks Library, I saw Spike sitting on a couch, his head was covered with a book.

“Spike, we need to talk.” I called to him, gaining his attention.

“Oh hey Mason…” Spike grumbled in anger, causing me to narrow my eyes at him.

“Spike, I want you to be honest with me. Are you jealous of Owlicious?” I asked, causing Spike to scoffed and replied “Of course I am! How can Twilight do something like that?! Taking in a new assistant, and she already loves him more than me!” I knew it, so that’s the cause of his jealousy.

I sighed sadly and look at him with a concern expression. “Spike, I think you’re over exaggerating about this.”

“But Mason, Owlicious is being so much better than me! Twilight will probably abandoned me and will never love me again.” Spike sighed sadly. He fears that Twilight might forget him.

“Don’t say that…” I made a serious expression, confusing Spike. “Twilight will never abandoned you, you were always with her from the beginning, right? So that means she cares about you and will never leave you. She’ll always be by your side.”

“R-really?” Spike asked, with widened eyes.

“Yes, just try to be nice to Owlicious and don’t get into trouble with him, please.” I said with a stern look.

“Yeah, I promise…” Spike nodded, as he began chuckling. I raised a brow at him as he cleared his throat and blushed. He better not even try to do something to Owlicious, sometimes jealousy will only lead you to trouble.

“I see….good day…” I turned around and began heading out of the library, meeting everyone else outside.

“So, how did it go?” Kaede asked.

“It went well, he’s just a little upset because Owlicious keeps helping Twilight a lot.” I replied with a sigh.

“Well even so, I would never replace him!” Twilight exclaimed.

“I know you wouldn’t…” With that, I took my leave and began heading back home. I got nothing else to do except for training anyway.

“Mason, wait up!” Carrie, Kodi, Ren, and Kaede tagged along with me, not that I mind.

“Well, see ya partners later then.” Applejack called as she and the other girls waved goodbye to us. I’m still worried about Spike and the way he was chuckling so darkly. I just hoped he doesn’t let his jealousy get himself into trouble.



Ren’s POV
Phew, finally done. It took almost a day, but we’re finally done cleaning the home-ship. When we got back home, Mason was planning on cleaning the place, so we offered if we could help out while he goes relax. At first, he was about to decline, but luckily, thanks to Carrie for keep begging him with the adorable puppy eye stare, Mason allowed us while he go meditate and stuff.

We were just finishing up cleaning up the living room, with Kodi and Kaede’s help. Kaede was wiping off the counter, Kodi was cleaning the floor by using wipers that we found in the pantry, and he was skating around the kitchen’s floor by having using four wipers as ice skating shoes while I re-stocking the fridge with food, that was also from the pantry. I haven’t been putting in new food for a while, but I don’t mind. Mason went to meditate, like he said after Carrie begged him that we would help cleaning up the place for once, just for him.

Carrie was in the living room, folding the blankets, with help from Mason’s pet squirrels. After I finished stocking the fridge, I let out a sigh of relief.

“I think that’s all for tonight.” I wiped away a sweat from my brow. We haven’t been doing anything except cleaning all day, and it was almost night time. Man, and I was planning on reading another Pokemon manga with grape soda and chips in my room. Oh well, I could at least still do that tonight.

“Wow, who knew Mason had to do all this…” Kaede muttered.

“Tell me about it.” Kodi added, getting tired out.

“Yeah…” I nodded in agreement before seeing Carrie entered the kitchen.

“Yeah, but big brother always does this everyday, he says it’s his responsibility to do this everyday.” Carrie explained, much to our surprise.

“What? Everyday? Why’s that?” Kaede asked.

“Umm….Sorry, it’s a secret.” Kaede said with a smile.

“Come on, can’t you tell us?” I begged.

“But even if I told you, it wouldn’t be a secret.” Carrie replied, much to my surprise. “That was something Mason told me back then.”

“I see…” I sweat-dropped and sighed. Well, she can at least answer one question for me. “Well, can I ask you something then?”

“Sure, what is it?” Carrie asked.

“Well...back when I was talking with Mason the other day, I overheard him say something about ‘young mistress’...” I then noticed Carrie widening her eyes and made a small gasp. “Do you anything about it?”

“U-umm….no, not at all.” Carrie shook her head. Huh? She hesitated for a sec, is that name seems familiar to them or something?

“If it’s uncomfortable to you, I won’t press you further.” I assured, much to Carrie’s relief.

“Okay…” Carrie nodded sadly. It’s best if I ask Mason about that when the time is right. Just what is their past?

“Hey, isn’t that Spike?” Huh? I noticed Kaede looking through the window with a confused expression. Me and Carrie walked over to the window while Kodi jumped onto the edge of the window as we saw Spike running off towards...the Everfree Forest.

“It is, though, why is he going to the Everfree Forest?” Carrie asked in concern.

“Everfree Forest?” Kaede asked in confusion.

“It’s a dangerous forest filled with wild animals and monsters.” I answered, turning to her with worried.

“What? Then why would Spike go to somewhere like that?!” Kaede asked.

“I don’t know.” I shook my head. He can’t be visiting Zecora this late, he knows better, and he seems quite...distress. Something must’ve happened.

“I’ll go check it out and find him.” I said, grabbing my Hacking Gun before turning back to the others. “I’ll be back, just stay here.”

“But what about Mason?” Kodi asked in confusion.

“Don’t worry, I’ll tell big brother where Ren went.” Carrie responded.

“I’ll be right back!” I said, running out of the home-ship and chasing after Spike into the Everfree Forest. As I was about to enter, somepony called my name.

“Ren!” Huh? I turned around to see a familiar purple unicorn mage.

“Twilight, what are you doing here?”

“I’m looking for Spike! I think he ran away!” Huh? Apologized to him? Wait…

“Twilight, what happened?” I asked in worried.

“I scolded him earlier ago for lying to me and trying to blame Owlicious for killing a field mouse by using a toy one and ketchup to make it look like blood, and so I send him off back to the library to think about his actions, and before you know it, I went to apologize to him, only to find out that he wasn’t at the library!” Twilight explained, feeling anxious. So that explains why Spike was looking so distress.

“You’ve seen him anywhere?!” I nodded my head and replied “Yeah, and if I’m right, I say he’s in danger!”

“What?!” Twilight yelled.

“I’ll be back! I promise! Just stay here!” I assured as I ran into the Everfree Forest, leaving a shocked and confused Twilight.



Where in the world is he?! I was searching through the single pathway of the Everfree Forest. Dang it! I’m starting to get worried and scared. As I continued to walk, I felt something underneath my foot. What the heck? I looked down and saw...ketchup? I looked up to see much ketchup on the ground in a trail. Wait, didn’t Twilight say that Spike used some ketchup for his prank on Owlicious. Then that means that some of the ketchup must’ve caught up to his feet and he just didn’t know that. If I followed it, then I might be able to find him.

I followed after the trail, going off the path of the Everfree Forest and into the bewildering forest. As I felt like I was going on forever, I heard something…

“ROOOOOAAAR!”

“AAHHHHH!”

Oh...crap-baskets…

I quickly ran straight for the noise and saw a giant cave. Oh man, please don’t be a dragon. Please don’t be a dragon. Please for my sake, don’t let it to be a dragon. As soon as I entered the cave, I finally found Spike, who was on the ground, scooting backwards from a….

Oh, you have got to be kidding me. Yep, it’s what I feared, a giant green dragon. Why can’t anything go what I want?! The giant dragon was glaring down at a cornered Spike, causing me to grabbed my Hacking Gun.

“Paralyze!” I shot ‘Paralyze’ directly at the dragon’s eye, causing not to be paralyzed from the shock, but almost blinded by that attack.

“Ren?!” Spike turned to me in shock.

“No time Spike, we need to get out of here!” I exclaimed in anxiety because I don’t think that paralysis is gonna hold long.

“O-Okay.” Spike nodded as he tried running away, but the dragon shook its head and growled angrily at us.

“Knock-Back!” I shot ‘Knock-Back’ at it, but it slashed it away with its claws. Okay, let’s try this!

“Burn!” I then fired multiple ‘Burn’ shots towards him, seemingly damaging the dragon. It barely held any damage to it and retaliated by shooting fire back at me. I quickly dodge it and set the dial to ‘Dance’.

“Dance!” I shouted, shooting the ‘Dance’ bullet towards him, but the giant dragon blew its fire at it, destroying it. Well that was useless. The dragon roared at us, causing me and Spike to fall on the ground. Dang it, this dragon is just too powerful, almost like that hydra back then. As the dragon released its claws at us and planned to slashed us, I felt my hoodie get grabbed as I was pulled back and instantly dodged that slash attack.

I looked back to see...“Mason?!” It was him. He had that serious expression as he set me on the ground, farther away from the dragon. Twilight was even there out there, much to my shock. I thought that she was back in Ponyville, waiting for me to return Spik back home.

“Ren! Are you alright?!” Twilight asked in a worried yet panic look.

“Y-yeah, I’m okay. Wait, what are you two doing here?!” I asked, getting to the point.

“Carrie, Kodi, and Kaede told me that you went after Spike when you guys saw him enter the Everfree Forest, and so I went after you and Spike, but not before I bumped into Twilight.” Mason explained.

“Yeah, I was getting worried about you and Spike’s safety, so Mason let me tag along.” Twilight smiled at me sheepishly.

“I see, well thanks anyway.” I sighed before noticing that we’re one person short. “Wait, where’s Spike?” I asked frantically.

“I’m right here!” We turned to see Spike...flying?! But how is he...Wait, I noticed that he was being carried by…

“Owlicious?!” I exclaimed in shock, seeing the tiny owl bird carrying Spike by grabbing onto his back and flying off with him. He then set Spike on the ground gently, with Spike looking back at Owlicious with a surprise yet happy expression.

“Thanks Owlicious, but why would you save me after what I did to you?” Spike asked in confusion.

“Hoo hoo…” Owlicious replied, but it was kinda hard to understand it since we don’t speak owl.

“You, why did you save me?” Spike asked, getting a little irritated.

“Actually, I think Owlicious did this as an act of forgiveness.” Mason suggested with a soft smile on his face.

“Yeah, that’s what I think too.” I nodded in agreement.

“Really?” Spike asked before turning back to Owlicious, who didn’t express any emotions still, but just blinked. We smiled happily at them, relieved that they’re about to make up. Suddenly, we started to hear footsteps as we turned around to see the dragon, who snarled at us.

“And the moment’s been ruined…” I muttered with a deadpan expression. Yep, should’ve seen that coming.

“Twilight, we need to leave now!” Mason exclaimed.

“On it!” Twilight said as her horn started to glow, but before we could the dragon let out a roar, blowing us back. As soon as I got up from the blow, I saw that the dragon was about to attack Owlicious, causing me to glare at the dragon and point my Hacking Gun at it.

“Break!” I shot ‘Break’ at it, directly at its other eye, causing it to roar in pain. Ha! Bullseye! No pun intended!

“Owlicious!” Spike yelled for him.

“Leave it to me!” Mason shouted as he ran straight for the owl as the dragon started rubbing its eye, trying to get rid of the pain. Owlicious was a little shaken by being attacked by the dragon, but it didn’t mind once Mason grabbed onto him and ran back to us.

“Twilight, get us out of here!” I called for her as the dragon started to wave off the pain. Twilight slowly got up and shook her head. Her horn then started glowing and she started concentrated. The dragon growled at us in anger as it was about to attack us with its claw again. I widened my eyes in shock while Mason growled angrily at it and prepared to take out his bamboo stick, but Twilight managed to get us out of here with her teleportation spell.

Once we were teleported out of the Everfree Forest, I let out a sigh of relief and smiled at Twilight.

“Thanks for the save Twilight, for a second there, I thought we were gonna die.”

“Anytime Ren, but I’m glad you guys didn’t get eaten by that dragon.” Oh, thank god for that.
“But anyway, now that’s over…” Mason turned to Spike with a stern look, while he was still holding Owlicious. “What were you thinking Spike? You nearly gotten yourself killed!”

“He’s right! We were so worried about you!” Twilight added. “I was worried about you! Why did you run away?” Spike soon started to act ashamed for himself, and I couldn’t help but feel bad for him.

“And that goes for you too!” Mason pointed to me.

“Huh?” I asked in confusion.

“When Kaede, Carrie, and your little dog friend told me that you went off to go and save Spike, I grew worried and went off to save you!” Mason exclaimed angrily.

“I don’t like taking sides, but he’s right Ren.” Twilight nodded in agreement. “Even I was worried about you, and when I heard that roar, I thought something terrible happened to you and Spike.” I looked down on the ground with a sad look.

“I’m sorry…” I muttered. I didn’t mean to worried them. I was just trying to save Spike, that’s all.

“But beside that, I’ll forgive you.” Mason sighed. “Sorry if I went hard on you.”

“Hey, it’s okay…” I said, smiling softly at him.

“Yeah, I’m sorry too…” Spike spoke up with a sad look. “I thought you didn’t need me anymore, Twilight and that...you didn’t love me anymore.”

“Spike! Sure I was disappointed, but you’re my number #1 Assistant, and friend! And you will always be.” Twilight replied with a smile.

“She’s right. Didn’t you listen to what I said back at the library, no matter what, Twilight will always love you and will never abandoned you just because she has a new assistant like Owlicious.” Mason added.

“Besides, the reason why I made Owlicious my assistant was so I get a little help at night. I can’t ask you to stay up late, you’re a baby dragon, and you need your rest!”

“Really?” Spike asked, widening his eyes in realization.

“It’s true, Owls like Owlicious are nocturnals, so of course why she made Owlicious her ‘junior assistant’ while you sleep.” Mason replied.

“Wait a minute, why would you study late at night, Twi?” I asked, curious about that subject.
“Well I told you before, I love reading books and study, day and night. Why do you ask?” I widen my eyes upon hearing that answer from Twilight. You know, there’s something called overstudy, right?

“Wow, I never knew.” Spike said with a smile.

“What? The studying at night thing?” I asked.

“No, not that.” Spike gave me a irritated look, causing me to smile sheepishly. “I’m talking about Owlicious, I shouldn’t have been so jealous. I’m sorry Twilight.”

“And I’m sorry too, Spike.” Twilight replied with a smile. “I should’ve been more sensitive.”

“And I think you owe a little someone an apology.” Mason said, putting Owlicious on his shoulder.

“Oh, and Owlicious?” Spike stepped forward with a soft smile on his face. “I now know that you weren’t trying to take my job, forgive me?”

“Hoo?” Owlicious tilted his head in confusion.

“Me, forgive me, Spike.”

“Hoo!”

Spike gave us an irritated look, making us both laugh as I said “I think he did forgive you Spike, in owl speak.”

“Speaking of which, how did you guys know where I was?” Spike asked, raising a brow.

“Kaede saw you running off towards the Everfree Forest from our home.” I explained. “So I went after you, and Twilight told me what happened, but also, I found a trail of ketchup with the size of your feet on the ground.”

“Oh yeah, the ketchup, it looked pretty real though, didn’t it?” Spike asked humorously, earning a look from both Mason and Twilight. You’re only digger yourself into a bigger hole, Spike.

“Well anyway, let’s just go home, and I hope you don’t pull such a stunt like this Spike and Ren.” Mason said, giving us a stern glare.

“Yes.” I nodded.

“You got it.” Spike quickly answered.
“Good, let’s go home. “ Soon then, we went our separate ways. Twilight, Owlicious, and Spike heading back to the library, and me and Mason heading back to our home-ship. While we walked back home, I looked back at Mason with a confused look and asked “So Mason, you were worried about me?”

“Of course, it’s my job to keep watch on all of you.” Mason replied with a serious look. “If anything happened to you, I would never forgive myself. I was taught to be strong, be a gentleman, to clean, cook, and protect…” Mason then covered his mouth with his scarf the moment he just spilled those words.

“Huh? You were taught for those things? Why was that?” I asked curiously.

“J-just ignore that, but even so, you’re my friend, right? So I was just looking out for you.” Well I understand you did that, but that last part you mentioned. You were taught to be strong and that other stuff? What did you mean by that? Just what childhood did you and Carrie went through?

“Anyway...let’s just go home.” Mason said as we were almost back to the home-ship. Oh well, I’m sure I’ll find the answer someday...I hope.



Mason’s POV
As soon as we were back home, my sister immediately hugged me, relieved and happy to see me and Ren again. Even Kaede and Kodi were happy to see us alright. We explained to them what happened to us, and they became shocked that we faced a giant dragon, but were relieved to hear Twilight using a teleportation spell to get us out of there. After telling them, we headed for our beds. Carrie and I headed to our room and just getting ready for bed. Carrie put on her PJ’s and I took off my sandals.

I was still thinking on why I nearly gave out my past to him. He’s just a kid, he wouldn’t understand. But still...it was unlike for me to give away so much info about my past. Good thing I didn’t say the name of my young mistress.

“Hey big brother, is there something wrong?” Carrie asked.

“H-huh? Oh nothing sis, just go to sleep. I’ll be up in the bed as soon as I can.” I replied, hiding away my nervousness. Carrie nodded and went to sleep. Phew, oh well, I guess it’s time to rest up, I’ll just get my PJ’s. As I walked into the closet and picked my PJ’s, I noticed something on the ground.

It was a brown box. Where did this come from? It must’ve been inside of the closet the whole time without me knowing, and it was put in deeply inside of the closet, so of course it makes sense that I would miss this.

I picked up the brown box and opened it, and I widen my eyes upon seeing what’s inside. It’s a bunch of toys, and not just any toys, they were Carries’ toys. How did they get here? Not just that, the box also had something inside shiny inside, which I noticed inside. Curious, I dug my hand into the box to pull out what it was. Once I did, I gasp quietly as I pulled out...a golden necklace.

No, it can’t be right. How did her necklace get here? I opened it up to confirm if its her, and to my shock, it was. It was a picture of my twelve year old self, my little sister when she was three, and...her. A tanned skin girl with green eyes and two pigtails of blonde with a white ribbon on her left pigtail and a black ribbon on her right pigtail and she was a fancy dress. No, it couldn’t be…

“Elena?” I muttered that name, the one I protected for so long and the one who helped raise my sister. Why...Why do I have her necklace? Just what’s...going on?

To Be Continued
> Chapter 25 - Celebration Time!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kaede’s Dream
…
…
...Huh? I was in a dark room as I looked around in fear. I was already streaming down some tears. 

“Oh just shut up already!” That voice, that sounds like….I turned around to see a light skinned woman in her late 40s. She had long blonde hair, wearing red pants and purple shirt that her right shoulder didn’t go in.

“W-what?” I asked in fear. What’s SHE doing here?! Why is she here?! It was my stepmother...

“I don’t care what happens! What? You think that you’re immune to it means that you have to be the one to survive?!” She exclaimed in anger.

“B-but even so, I wouldn’t go with it!” I exclaimed. Wait, what am I even saying? 

“I don’t care! You’re gonna stay in this room! Besides, I overheard that a group of mobs are searching over for anyone like you! So I’m gonna call them to come and kill you, not that I care. I’m done using you as my daughter/slave anyway.” What?! She’s crazy!

“You’re crazy! If this about the reward money to capture me and the others, then you’re insane!” I exclaimed in anger while the tears stream down. “Even if you get the reward money, you’re never gonna survive this madness! Many people are dying out there thanks to the gas out there!”

“I don’t care what happens to anyone but myself and my own daughters, you’re so useless...just like your father.” Huh? I made a confused expression on what she meant. Why is she bringing up my father? Does she know something about it? “Well anyway, I hope I’ll see you never!” She then closed the door and locked it, much to my shock.

“No!” I ran straight to the door and attempted to open it, but it was no luck! I began crying and kept banging on the door. “Please don’t do this! Please, let me out! Let! Me! OUT!”

Suddenly, a bright flash appeared before me, causing me to black out.



“GAH!” I woke up with widened eyes, sweating nervously and breathing heavily. It was all a dream, thank goodness it wasn’t real, but wait...why did I have that dream? I was arguing with my stepmother, but I know I would never do that. If so, she would’ve punish me, so what was it? Huh?

I turned my head to gasp in shock to see two sets of blue eyes looking right in front of me so closely.

“AH!” I screamed.

“Good morning sleepyhead!” Oh, it’s just Pinkie Pie. She smiled happily and started bouncing happily around my room.

“Pinkie? What are you doing here?!” I asked in shock.

“I came to wake you up Kaede!” Pinkie exclaimed happily.

“Huh? Wake me up? What for?”

“Because today is Gummy’s birthday!” Pinkie explained. “And also yours, Mason’s, and Carrie’s welcome to Ponyville/Equestria party!”

“Umm...Okay?” I sweat-dropped and smiled nervously at her.

“Come on Kaede, turn that frown upside down and let’s enjoy ourselves with our friends ! Also, Twilight also has a special surprise just made for you!” Huh? Special surprise?

“What special surprise?” I asked.

“Duh, I can’t tell you that silly! That’s why it’s called a surprise!” Pinkie grinned happily. Umm, I guess that is a fair point. “Now come on! I already woken up Ren and the others about this! You should get dress and hurry to Sugarcube Corner so that we can party!”

“Alright, alright Pinkie, I’m getting up.” I nodded before getting out of bed, but one thing was in my mind. “By the way Pinkie, how did you get in here?”

“Oh, I just walked through your door.” Pinkie pointed to my door.

“Y-yeah, but it was locked.” I pointed out.

“I have my ways, not even the author knows what it is.” Pinkie then turned to something that I couldn’t see, much to my confusion and...fear around this pink pony.

“Oookay?” I sweat-dropped while smiling nervously at her. “Well, we’ll see at the party, see ya Pinkie.”

“Okie-Dokie-Lokie!” With that, she ran out of the room, leaving a dust in the form of herself behind before disappearing. I’m just so curious about Pinkie Pie, just how can she do that? Oh well, I might as well get dressed and meet up with the others.

Soon, after I put on my normal attire, which was a short-sleeved purple sweater with those big puffy things that I used to tighten my hoodie, and underneath my purple sweater is a long sleeve pink shirt while also wearing my purple skirt with brown siege shoes with long purple socks that almost reaches to my knees. I then brushed my long red hair which I let it roam freely, which I kept in several thin hair clips and I possessed a long ahoge like Ren, well maybe it’s longer than his, but I don’t mind. I also carried my kitty backpack and my stuffed cat, Coco, with me downstairs.

After I got dress, I came downstairs to the dining room where I saw Ren, Mason, Carrie, and Kodiak. They all seemed tired out, well except Mason as he leaned against the wall and closed his eyes. It’s either that he’s trying to act cool or is actually going to sleep.

“Hey guys.” I called out to them, gaining their attention.

“Kaede, good morning!” Kodi jumped onto my arms and started licking my face, causing me to smile happily.

“Thanks Kodi.” I said, petting him on the head before putting him back on the ground. I then turned to my friends and asked “So Pinkie woke you all up too, huh?”

“Yeah…” Ren let out a yawn, still tired out. “Pinkie took me and Kodi by surprise, and told me that today is Gummy’s birthday.”

“Yeah, and I think I peed a little when I saw her too.” Kodi admitted sheepishly.

“Yeah, she told me and Carrie about it too…” Mason sighed, but I could’ve sworn that sigh was in a sad tone.

“Something wrong big brother?” Carrie asked in concern. It seems that I wasn’t only one who caught on his attitude.

“Nothing Carrie, just...t-thinking about things…” Mason covered his mouth with his large red scarf, deep in thought. Seriously, what’s up with him?

“Well whatever, I’m actually quite excited to go to this party.” Ren stated. “I mean, this is you guys’ party, along with Gummy.”

“Speaking of which, whose Gummy?” I asked.

“Oh, he’s an alligator.” Kodi replied bluntly, much to my surprise.

“An alligator?!” Me and Carrie yelled in surprise while Mason raised a brow.

“No no no, what Kodiak meant that Gummy is a pet alligator. You know, one of those small alligators you keep as a pet at home.” Ren assured with a sweat-drop, much to our relief.

“Oh...I see…” Phew, that would’ve been crazy. To think someone like Pinkie would own a dangerous animal like an alligator. That would be both crazy and insane. Besides, she’s starting to make me feel afraid of her.

“Well, it would still be awesome to see an alligator!” Carrie exclaimed happily, causing me and Ren to look at her in surprise. For a little girl, she must have so much courage in order not to be afraid of something like that. “Well anyway, let’s go! It must be awesome to have a party of us together!”

“Yeah, and I can’t wait to eat any of the sweets at Sugarcube Corner.” Kodi let out his tongue and started panting heavily. Wow, he must be so addictive towards the sweets there. Well, I am getting a little hungry, so I guess I don’t mind.

“Alright, let’s go.” Ren said, which we all nodded in agreement, but Mason didn’t hear us. “Hey Mason, you coming dude or what?” Ren asked, gaining his attention.

“W-what? Oh right, coming.” Mason nodded as he got up from the wall and followed us after the door. I’m wonder what’s wrong with him. He’s been acting strange the moment I saw him this morning. Did something happened last night or something? Oh well, better not dwell on it. I’m actually quite excited to have a party, and it’s not even my own birthday.



We then walked through the main streets of Ponyville, greeting the folks there. Well some of them were still surprise to see four humans here in Equestria, so it makes sense why should they be afraid of us. But since Ren been here more than me, Mason, and Carrie, I guess he’s used to this.

We soon finally arrived to Sugarcube Corner as Carrie knocked on the door with a smile on her face. Soon, the door slowly opened, revealing Pinkie with a suspicious look on her face.

“Who is it?” I heard Pinkie’s voice from the inside of the place.

“It’s us!” Carrie called.

“Who?” Pinkie raised a brow, but with a smirk on her face.

“Pinkie, it’s us. Ren, Kodi, Mason, Carrie, and Kaede.” Ren replied, chuckling a bit.

“Really? Then what’s the password?” Huh? Password? What password?

“Pinkie, we don’t know the password.” Mason said blankly. “So can you at least tell us, please?”

“Hmm…” Pinkie rubbed her chin before saying “Alright, I’ll give ya all a hint.”

“A hint?” Kodi tilted his head in confusion.

“Yep, and here’s the hint!” Pinkie addressed us to come closer as we came close to her face as she whispered “What’s my favorite thing in all of Equestria?”

“Umm….” Ren thought for a while before smiling nervously. “Party?”

Five seconds later, Pinkie closed the door and we started hearing some locks being unlocked. Wow, this door must have a lot of locks. Suddenly, the door finally opened with a big grin on her face and exclaimed “Welcome to the party everyone!”

“Oh...thanks.” I nodded as we all headed inside and as we walked inside the second floor of the store, we saw all our friends, enjoying themselves in the party.

“Hey, you all finally arrived!” Rainbow exclaimed, flying towards us and gave Ren a high-five, or maybe a hi-hoof since hooves don’t have any fingers.

“Yeah, apparently Pinkie told us that this party is to celebrate Gummy’s birthday and Mason, Carrie, and Kaede’s welcoming to Ponyville.” Ren said, smiling happily.

“Mm-hmm, and it was so nice of Pinkie to make this party for us.” I added with a smile before frowning a bit. “But still, for Pinkie to make this all up for us and her pet, Gummy, it must be tiring for her.”

“I don’t know about that.” Twilight assured as she pointed towards Pinkie, who was bouncing around happily the place, much to my surprise.

“Wow, she’s sure energetic!” Carrie exclaimed in shock. “Wow, she acts like me sometimes when I eat too much sweets, right big brother?....Big brother?” We turned to Mason, who was covering his mouth while he was in deep thought.

“Is there something wrong with him, partner?” Applejack asked Ren.

“I have no idea, he’s been distracted the moment I saw him this morning.” Ren shrugged.

“Wow, I’ve never seen Mason like that before.” Fluttershy agreed.

“Mason?” Rarity called for him, gaining his attention.

“W-what? Oh sorry, I was just...thinking some things…” Mason said, sweat-dropping a little.
“Thinking about what?” Twilight asked.

“I-I’m sorry, but I can’t tell you.” Mason replied, much to our surprise. “I’ll tell you when I feel like the time is right. I’m sorry…”

“Mason…” Carrie muttered sadly. I’m getting worried for him as well. Just what’s wrong with him? He wasn’t acting like this at all. He was fine since yesterday.

“Come on Masey!” Pinkie immediately appeared right in front of him and immediately grabbed his cheeks. “You need to get rid of those thoughts in your head and have fun!”

“Fun?” Mason asked, bewildered by her appearing out of nowhere, even me and Carrie were surprised to see her appeared out of nowhere as well.

“Yeah, come on!” Pinkie immediately grabbed his hand and showed him to a bucket filled with water and apples.

“Umm...this is?” Huh? He doesn’t know much about apple bucking?

“This here’s is where you dunk your head into this bucket of water and see who can get the most apples!” Pinkie explained as she dunked her head into the water, pulling out an apple. “Here, you try!”

“Umm…” Mason felt weirded out by doing that. I guess he never experience in something like that, huh?

“Yeah, try it Mason!” Ren said as he happily stepped over between him and Pinkie. “Here, allow me to show you as well!” Ren took a deep breath and dunk his head into the water, grabbing one of the apples. “Ta-da!”

“Nice catch Renny boy!” Applejack praised him.

“Hey, I want to try it too!” Carrie exclaimed as she walked over and do it as well. She dunked her head into the water and pulled out another apple. “Yay! I did it Mason!”

“Y-yeah, I see…” Mason nodded with a soft smile.

“Ahh, those are just boring apples. Don’t worry, there are plenty of other surprises in there!” Pinkie assured.

“Other surprises?” I asked curiously.

“Really?!” Carrie eyes sparkled in joy upon hearing that.

“What kind of surprises?!” Rainbow asked, excited as Carrie.

“I can’t tell you that, silly. Then it wouldn’t be a surprise.” Pinkie stated with a grin on her face. Well, she does have a point.

“Well, count me in!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, pushing Ren aside.

“Hey! I’m in it too!” Ren said, getting back up and stood next to Rainbow Dash.

“You two can’t have all the fun without me.” Applejack spoke up, walking towards the bucket.

“Say Mason, why not try it as well?” Carrie asked, surprising her brother.

“W-what?”

“Please big brother?” Carrie then pulled off a puppy dog stare at him, causing him to sigh and smiled softly at his sister.

“Alright, I’ll give it a go.” Mason ruffled her hair a bit as she smiled happily while he went to do the apple bucking challenge with the others.

“Wow, and I thought I was the only one to do the puppy dog stare.” Kodi said, surprised that Carrie pulled it off. I chuckled at seeing him and Carrie get along so easily, I sorta envy them a bit. I wished I could’ve gotten that love from my stepsisters.

“Kaede?” Huh? I then turned to see Twilight looking at me in concern. “Is something wrong?”

“O-oh, nothing’s wrong.” I said in relief, gripping on Coco a little hard. “I’m just overthinking some things.”

“Heh heh, you’re acting like Mason.” Twilight chuckled, causing to chuckle with her. “So anyway, I’m sure Pinkie told you about your welcoming party, huh?”

“Yeah, I’m surprised that she worked so hard to put up this party.” I said, looking around the place. It was all covered in party decorations and such.

“Well that’s Pinkie Pie for ya.” Twilight said, turning to others. Rarity and Fluttershy were over at the snack table eating some of the party snacks while I saw Ren and the others about to dunk their heads into the water while Ren was explaining the rules to Mason.

“I see...I understand better now.” Mason nodded.

“Yep, now come on! Let’s see this surprise Pinkie Pie is talking about!” Ren said happily as he dunked his head into the bucket of water, along with Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Mason hesitate for a second until he dunk his head into the water. Soon, they took their heads out of the water with apples in their mouths, except that Mason had some sort of green apple. Apparently, I saw that the green apple was attached to some sort of spring in the bucket, bringing Mason’s face forcefully back into the water. Ren chuckled as he looked down at his prize, but became surprised on what he caught.

I took a closer look and let out a shriek to see what it was. It was a small alligator, but it took me by surprise. Ren chuckled upon seeing it and said “Hey Gummy, didn’t see you there!”

“Huh? Gummy?” I asked in surprise.

“Tee-hee! I see you guys finally met the birthday gator!” Pinkie laughed as she grabbed the little alligator from Ren’s mouth and hugged him tightly, not that he mind as it just blinked. I’m guessing that alligator is harmless like Ren said.

“Wow, he’s so cute!” Carrie cooed, while I noticed Kodi made a frown.

“I’m way more cuter than that gator.” Kodi muttered angrily. I chuckled a bit to see that everyone was getting along with each other.

“Wow, I’m surprised that she even has a pet alligator.” I said, gazing at Pinkie and Gummy.

“Yeah, I kinda don’t know what’s inside of that pony’s head.” Twilight chuckled while shaking her head. “But besides that, she does know how to throw some awesome parties.”

“Yeah, and it was kinda nice to throw parties for not only for her pet gator, but for me, Mason and his little sister.”

“Well, you know Pinkie. She always does that for anypony she meets. I mean, practically, everypony here in Equestria knows her and are always excited with her parties.” Twilight said before gasping. “Oh right, by the way. I just received a letter from Princess Celestia.”

Huh? From Princess Celestia? It’s been a while since I’ve last seen her. “She wanted me to give you this.” Twilight showed me what it was. It was none other than a golden ticket. Wait, could it be…

“Isn’t that...the tickets for the Grand Galloping Gala that Ren was talking about?” I asked, looking at the golden ticket in my hands.

“Yep, like Princess Celestia promised, you’re invited to the Grand Galloping Gala!” Twilight exclaimed in joy as I continued to gaze at it. I don’t believe it, they actually want me to go? That’s...the kindest thing anyone has ever done for me. Well, besides my friends back on Earth.

“Thanks Twilight, you’re the best.” I complimented her, causing her to smile back at me.

“Anytime, so let’s go have some punch to celebrate! To new friends!” Twilight cheered.

“To new friends!” I cheered alongside her as she and I went over to grab some punch, and Rarity was already there as Pinkie appeared out of nowhere again and poured me some punch.

“Oh, thanks Pinkie.” I smiled happily at her.

“Anytime Kay!” Pinkie nodded as she poured some punch into Twilight and Rarity’s cup. As we started the punch, we all became overjoyed with it.

“This punch is simply divine! Is this the same recipe you used for your ‘Spring Has Sprung’ party?” Rarity asked. Wait, Spring Has Sprung party? Does that something to do with the season ‘Spring’? Wow, she must’ve came up with many ideas for that.

“Nope! Something new.” Pinkie answered as Rarity and I continued to drink the punch with a straw. While I was drinking, I noticed something in the punch. What in the world….Oh my…

“PFFFFT!” I spat out the punch as I saw what was inside of it. It was none other than her pet alligator. Rarity noticed it too as she spat out the drink too.

“It’s Gummy favorite!” Pinkie replied with a smile, but she didn’t mind as the punch was dripping from her face. Me and Rarity looked at each other with worried and confusion. What’s going on her? I understand that she was weird when I first met her in this world, but now, she’s acting more weirder than usual, even with that smile she keeps making.

“Ooh, this is my jam!” Pinkie exclaimed before pushing us out of the way and began dancing around. Ren, Carrie, and Mason came over to me and Rarity and began worried on what was going on.

“Is there something wrong with Pinkie?” Ren asked. “She’s acting so...strange.”

“More stranger than usual, I assume?” Mason raised a brow at him, which he nodded.

“Well yeah, I’ve never seen her act like this.” Ren shrugged.

“Do you think she’s getting tired?” Carrie suggested, causing us to look at her. “I mean, she has been working on this party for us and her pet, Gummy.” We looked at each other with worried, realizing the suggestion Carrie made. She’s right. Pinkie’s been working so hard, and Twilight told me she does this everyday. Man, I feel so bad for her right now.

Suddenly, we saw her dancing around, accidentally bumping both Fluttershy and Twilight out of the way. Luckily, Ren caught Fluttershy while Mason caught Twilight from their fall.

“You girls okay?” Ren asked in worried.

“Y-yes, I’m okay.” Fluttershy replied, blushing lightly. Huh? Why is she blushing? Could it be…?

“Twilight, are you okay? Do you need some medical help?” Mason asked.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be fine. Thank you.” Twilight assured before looking at Ren and Fluttershy. I saw the frown she was making. Hold on, does she...no way. Why hasn’t Ren told me this? Does Fluttershy and Twilight have a crush on him?! No way!

“Go Gummy! It’s your birthday! Go, Gummy! It’s your birthday!” Pinkie kept shouting while she dancing around Gummy, while it was standing there. Hmm...She definitely needs help.



Later
Soon after the party, we were outside of Sugarcube Corner, about to leave and go do our daily business.

“Thanks for the party, Pinkie!” Kodi said as Ren carried him on his arms as he already stuffed his stomach with sweets and candy.

“Yeah, it was awesome! I can’t wait for the next party you’re gonna make!” Ren added with a smile.

“Good! Because…” Pinkie gave me an invitation with a big grin on her face. “You’re all invited to Gummy’s After-Birthday party!”

“After-Birthday Party?” I asked in surprise. Is there even a thing called an ‘After-Birthday Party’?!

“Yep-a-doodles! I hope you all will be there tomorrow!” Pinkie exclaimed as she hopped back inside of Sugarcube Corner. Wow, she’s really excited about these parties. I mean, I feel like she doesn’t want the party to even end.

“Well looks like we’re going tomorrow for the After-Birthday Party, huh?” Carrie asked, which Ren shrugged.

“Seems so, and plus, they’ll be more cake there.” Ren said, licking his lips.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right. Wanna go there tomorrow, Mason?” Carrie asked her brother, but he was starting to go into deep thought...again. “Big brother?”

“H-huh? Oh yeah, sure I guess.” Mason said, feeling a bit down. I wished we could try talking to him, but he seems way too stubborn to want to talk to him.

“Actually…” Rainbow spoke up with a grin on her face. “We won’t be going to the party tomorrow.”

“What?! Why not?!” Kodi asked in shock. “Their probably gonna be donuts tomorrow at that After-Birthday party!”

“Yeah, why’s that?” Ren asked in confusion.

“See, tomorrow is a special day besides the After-Birthday party.” Fluttershy explained. “Though, I’m surprise that Pinkie would forget something like that.” Forget?

“Well after we saw her acting crazy during that party? She wasn’t like herself.” Rarity replied. “She has to be so tired if she was partying TOO hard.”

“What are you girls talking about?” Ren asked.

“Oh right, tomorrow is gonna be Pinkie’s birthday!” Twilight explained, causing us to gasp in shock. No way! That’s what Pinkie Pie forgot? Her own birthday?!

“For realsies?” Kodi asked, blinking in surprise.

“Yep!” Twilight nodded as she continued “And we’re planning on making it a surprise for her, so we can’t let her know about it.”

“So in other words, we mustn’t tell her what it is, even though she doesn’t know that her birthday is tomorrow, correct?” Mason asked, which the girls nodded.

“But if you guys don’t want to help, we understand…” Fluttershy frowned at us.

“Are you kidding? No way we wanna miss this!” Ren exclaimed with a smile. “After everything she did for us by making that party for my new friends, of course we’ll help her!”

“Yeah, we promised we’ll do our best!” Carrie agreed.

“Me too!” Kodi added.

“Well, after what she did for us, I’m in!” I nodded in agreement.

“...Okay.” Mason nodded with a soft smile. “So where exactly shall we hold her birthday party at?”

“We’re gonna set it up at the barn back at my farm.” Applejack answered. “But remember, you gotta keep it a secret, got it partner?”

“My lips are sealed!” Kodi nodded.

“Understand.” Mason responded.

“We promise.” Ren gave them a thumbs-up.

“Pinkie Promise?” Rainbow smirked. Pinkie Promise? Ren nodded as he said “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!” I sweat-dropped from what he just said, even Mason sweat-dropped from what he just said.

“I do not believe that’s how a Pinkie Promise works.” Mason spoke up.

“Well that’s Pinkie way on how it works.” Ren shrugged with a smile. Wow, who would’ve thought that their world is so much similar to our world.

“Thank you so much for the help Ren.” Fluttershy smiled softly at Ren.

“Hey, that’s what friends do, Flutters.” Fluttershy blushed at Ren, causing him to be confused when he noticed her like that. Huh? Does he know even know about it? Oh my...this is not good.

“Well anyway, we shall meet tomorrow at the barn. Goodbye…” Rarity walked away as we all said our goodbyes and headed back to our normal daily lives. As we walked back to the home ship at the otherside of Ponyville, Ren put his hands behind his head and sighed.

“You know, if it’s gonna be Pinkie’s birthday tomorrow, I might as well give her something that she might like.” Oh yeah, Ren does have a point. What can I give her?

“Yeah, but what does she like?” Carrie asked.

“I don’t know, she practically likes almost everything she sees.” Ren shrugged.

“Well, why not paint her a portrait of what she loves the most?” Kodi suggested.

“Paint?” I asked Ren.

“Oh you see, I became a painter here in Ponyville. I wanted to earn some bits here to buy some groceries while we stay here in Equestria.” Ren explained, much to my surprise. I didn’t even know that Ren knows so much about Art. Heh heh, guess never judge a person by his or her cover.

“Yes, he’s been some good work recently. Maybe with your art skills might help paint the decorations for the party tomorrow?” Mason offered.

“Yeah, that might come in handy. Don’t worry you guys, leave it to me!” Ren nodded with determination. You know, Ren is quite amazing for his optimistic nature and determination, I sorta envy him there. But what am I gonna give Pinkie tomorrow? Hmm, well maybe I could make her something that she’ll find enjoyable. Well, I guess I give it my best for her birthday tomorrow.



The Next Day
Soon after we woke up and ate our breakfast, we headed over to Sweet Apple Acres to go and meet up with our friends. You know, I’ve seen Sweet Apple Acres before back when we were helping those kids back then with their ‘cutie-marks’ and so, but I never been inside of the place. Once we did, we saw a big red barn just a distance away.

“So this is what Sweet Apple Acres look likes from the inside, huh?” I looked around in wonder and amazement. “This place looks pretty nice.”

“Yeah, I’ve been here a couple of times here.” Ren let out a tooth-eating grin as he continued “I remember when I first came here, they were kind enough to make a party for my welcoming to Equestria.”

“Wow, really?” Carrie asked, which Ren nodded. “That’s amazing! I guess that means that we all gotten our special surprise, huh Mason?” Mason still didn’t give a response as he kept began going into deep thought. “Big brother?”

“H-huh? Y-yeah…” Mason finally answered before going back to his thoughts. Alright, I feel like I can’t hold this out anymore.

“Mason, what’s going on?” I asked, gaining his attention.

“What? What do you mean?” Mason asked.

“I meant, why do keep going into deep thoughts? This isn’t like you.”

“She’s right, you’ve been acting like since yesterday.” Thank you Ren, at least they’re somebody here who knows what’s going on with him. “Is there something going on?” Mason glanced away and didn’t replied back to us.

“M-Mason?” Ren called for him.

“I am sorry, but like I said yesterday, I cannot tell you until when I feel like I’m comfortable with you all.” Huh? What does that mean?

“Well...If it’s uncomfortable to tell it to us and the rest of our friends, we understand.” Ren said with a concerned expression. I can’t really blame him there, I know that I’ve been here for a while now and I barely know so much about them, but I’m also worried about Mason as well and I know he doesn’t act like this. If only he could fully trust us and tell us what’s inside of his mind.

“A-anyway…let’s just go.” Mason walked past us and began heading to the barn while holding his sister’s hand. Me, Kodi, and Ren looked at each other in worried before following after him. Soon enough, we entered the barn and saw the others working on the decorations and so.

“Hey everyone.” I called for them, surprising them a bit.

“W-wha?! O-oh, it’s just you four.” Applejack chuckled nervously. “Sorry about that.”

“It’s okay.” Ren rubbed his head bashfully. “So it seems you girls are already getting started with it, huh?”

“Yeah, and we have to make sure that Pinkie doesn’t see it.” Twilight said, putting some streamers on the top of the barn by using her magic.

“Yes, and we could use more help.” Rarity sighed happily. “We have to make sure that Pinkie doesn’t even see all this.”

“But wait, what about her other party?” Kodi asked. Other party?

“What other party?” Applejack asked.

“You know, Gummy’s After-Birthday party?” Oh no! I forgot all about it!

“This is a problem…” Mason muttered.

“Tell me about it…” Rainbow Dash face-hooved herself.

“Best thing to do is not tell her.” Ren suggested, which we all nodded in agreement.

“Good plan, partner.” Applejack said as she grabbed a bucket. “I’ll be right back, gotta pick a few apples.” Applejack walked out of the barn and went to do what she said. Soon enough, we decided to continue to decorate the barn as I helped Rarity and Twilight by putting some birthday streamers around the barn.

“I say, you know how to pick the finest spots to put these streamers up, Kaede.” Rarity complimented, causing me to blush a bit.

“Well, I worked as a costume maker, so I know what materials I use to satisfy anyone.” I replied with a soft smile before frowning and muttering “Well anyone except my stepmother and stepsisters.”

“What was that, Kaede?” Twilight asked.

“N-nothing.” I shook my head with a nervous laugh.

“Um, guys, we got a problem.” Ren said, running towards us. “A Pinkie related problem.” With worried, we stopped doing our decorations and rushed over to the door, peeking through it to see Applejack talking with Pinkie Pie, and it looks like Applejack had about several carts of apples with her. Must be for the party.

“Huh? Oh..hi there..uh...Pinkie Pie!” Applejack greeted her, but she was acting really nervous. “What brings you round these parts?”

“Who’s ready to shake their hoof-thang?” Pinkie handed her an invitation letter, and if I had to guess, it must be for Gummy’s After-Birthday Party thing. “It’s an invitation to ‘Gummy’s After-Birthday Party this afternoon!” Called it.

“There’s gonna be dancing, and games, and cake, and ice-cream, and punch!” Pinkie summarized what’s gonna be in the party. But to be fair, that’s the same thing as from the last party yesterday.

“Uh, well...I...I...I don’t think I can make it cause...uh...I have to...pick these apples!” Applejack showed her the cart full of apples. “Cause that’s what we do! With the...apples. We...uh...pick them!” Applejack gave her a nervous grin.

“She’s terrible at lying, huh?” I muttered while sweat-dropping.

“You have no idea…” Ren agreed, also sweat-dropping.

Pinkie Pie just looked at her suspiciously, which caused Applejack to widened her grin even more nervously. Pinkie Pie narrowed her eyes at Applejack, like she was getting suspicious of her before she smiled happily and responded “Okie Dokie Lokie! A party is still a party, even if there are only three guests.” Pinkie walked away, causing us and Applejack to sigh in relief.

With Pinkie out of sight, Applejack walked back inside of the farm with the carts.

“We saw the whole thing, and thank god that Pinkie didn’t figure out what you were up to.” Ren smiled before frowning a bit. “But I still can’t believe you lied to her, and I thought you couldn’t lie.”

“Well, she technically didn’t lie since she said that she was gonna pick some apples.” Carrie pointed out.

“Darn tootin that I would ever lie like that.” Applejack nodded. “Not since what happened back when I was a filly.”

“Really? What happened back then?” Kodi asked, causing Applejack to flinch in fear.

“Uhh...I think it’s best if you don’t know.” Applejack shook her head.

“Now I’m curious to know what happened back then with you.” I said, more interested into learning more about Applejack’s past.

“Well anyway, right now, we should be focusing on making Pinkie Pie’s surprise birthday party. Twilight reminded us. “In the meantime, I think her birthday cake should be finished by now.”

“Birthday cake?” Mason asked.

“Yeah, I asked Mrs. Cake to make it for Pinkie in secret.” Twilight explained. “But I’m gonna need somepony to go get it. Hmm....Hey Rainbow Dash, Mason, do you two think you can get Pinkie’s birthday cake without her knowing.”

“Ha! I can totally get that cake in five minutes top!” Rainbow Dash boasted.

“Please save the arrogance for later Rainbow Dash.” Mason said sternly before turning back to Twilight’s offer. “Yes, we shall get the cake, Twilight.” Mason and Rainbow Dash left the barn and headed towards Sugarcube Corner while we continued to decorate Pinkie’s party.

“Do you think they’ll get it before Pinkie finds out?” Fluttershy asked in worried.

“Don’t worry, I know that my big brother can do it!” Carrie replied, having faith in her brother.

“What about Rainbow Dash?”

“Well I believe in her too!” Carrie added. Well, I just hope Pinkie won’t find out about this.



Later
“Wow Ren, you’re quite good at this.” I complimented as I admired Ren painting a small frame of...cupcakes and the background was pink. Well, they did say that Pinkie will like almost anything, so I won’t mind this painting of his.

“Thanks, been working real hard on it.” Ren said, almost adding the finishing touches on it.

“But you started on it fifteen minutes ago.” Fluttershy reminded him.

“Well, I’m quite the artist, eh?” Ren smiled at us. “Besides, I have an active imagination than anyone else. Well, besides Pinkie.”

“Well, you’re not wrong.” Kodi shrugged as he sat on Ren’s lap. Yeah, sometimes I don’t understand what’s going on inside of that pony’s head. Soon, the barnyard door opened, revealing both Mason and Rainbow Dash, who had panicked looks on their faces.

“W-what’s wrong with you two?” Ren asked before realizing something. “Don’t tell me that Pinkie saw you two, right?”

“Yeah, after as we got the cake, she appeared right in front of us and asked us what was going on, so we lied to her and began heading back to the barn.” Rainbow explained.

“And soon enough, I sensed that someone was following us and we discovered that it was Pinkie Pie, and so, we ran away as fast as possible.” Mason added.

“So did you two lose her on the way here?” Rarity asked. Before Mason and Rainbow Dash could answer, a loud voice shouted out.

“I KNOW YOU TWO ARE IN THERE!”

“Nope, no we didn’t.” Rainbow shook her head, causing us to sigh. This can’t be good.

“What do we do?” Carrie asked in worried.

“I’ll try to distract her!” Ren exclaimed as he walked out of the barn. Soon enough, we ran out to the door and peeked inside to see Ren confronting an angry Pinkie Pie. Oh wow, she must be upset because she doesn’t know about her surprise party yet.

“Oh! Hey Pinkie, what’s up?” rRen greeted her with a nervous grin.

“Mind if I...take a look inside of Applejack’s barn?” Pinkie asked irritatedly. Oh my, she’s really mad. I hate to be the guy or gal to confront her bad side….

Oh wait...Ren’s confronting her.

“No! Uh, I mean, you can’t come in here!” Ren shook his head.

“But Rainbow Dash and Mason just went in there.” Pinkie pointed out.

“Oh you see, they were just bringing in some..uh...supplies! Yeah, supplies for...rebuilding this barn!” Ren answered, sweating a little. Oh my, come on Ren, don’t let Pinkie know the truth on this surprise party. If so, then all of this hard work was for nothing!

“You heard her! Construction!” Rainbow Dash whispered loudly. Wait, she wants us to make sure that Pinkie doesn’t find out Ren’s lie? Well if so, then...I’ll do it!

Soon, I began making construction sounds, confusing the others. Soon enough, they caught up on what I was doing and did the same thing as I was doing. Ren continued to keep Pinkie from finding as he purposely blocked the way from Pinkie seeing anything. Pinkie began trying to force her way in, but Ren tried to fight back. Pinkie somehow eventually got past him and was about to open the door, resulting Ren to pull out his Hacking Gun.

“Sorry Pinkie!” Ren apologized before firing a yellow electric beam at her, causing her to be shocked. Whoa, what kind of shot was that from the Hacking Gun? Ren soon closed the barnyard door closed. We continued to make construction sounds while I heard Ren’s conversation with Pinkie Pie.

“Yep! You heard right, we’re rebuilding the barn and that’s all! Take care Pinkie!” I heard Ren responded back to Pinkie Pie.

“Okie...Dokie...Lokie…” I overheard Pinkie say that in a suspicious tone and then we heard her footsteps walked away. Five minutes later, we peeked out of the barnyard and saw that she was completely gone, causing us to sighed in relief, especially Ren.

“Okay, that was too close!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“Tell me about it.” Ren agreed while he wiped away the sweat from his forehead.

“So...we’re okay for now?” Carrie asked.

“Seems so.” Mason sighed before saying “Let’s get back to work before she shows up again…” We all nodded and went back to work. While I decorated the streamers with help from both Rarity and Twilight, I began to worried about Pinkie Pie. I just hope that she doesn’t feel too upset about her not wanting to go to her pet’s After-Birthday Party. I know how it feels when someone doesn’t want to be with you anymore…




“Alright, let’s go over this stuff one last time.” Twilight said as she took out a clipboard by using her magic and began examining the stuff we made for the party. “Let’s see...Streamers, check...Music, check...Punch bowl, check..hmm…” Twilight tapped her hoof on her chin while looking around the barn before gasping. “Oh! We could use some more balloons. You know how Pinkie Pie loves her balloons.”

“Yeah, you can say that again.” Kodi chuckled as we all nodded and chuckled alongside him. Soon enough, Mason and Carrie went on and blowed more balloons and soon, Ren and Fluttershy helped put up some party streamers on top of the ceiling beam and after that, we finally finished up everything as we gazed upon Pinkie’s Birthday Party.

“Wooow…” Both Carrie and Kodi said in amazement.

“Well...it seems that we finally finished, huh?” Mason asked, smiling softly.

“Yep, now all we need is the birthday mare…” Ren said, putting his hands behind his head. “Well, I guess I should go and get her then.”

“Wait!” I shouted, gaining my friends’ attention. “Why don’t I go and get her then?”

“Really? Why’s that darling?” Rarity asked curiously.

“Well, I thought that maybe she might be upset that we might’ve not went to the party we promised to go, and so I thought I can go and cheer her up.” I explained as everyone looked at each other.

“Well...I don’t know…” Twilight rubbed her chin in thought.

“Don’t worry, I guess I can let her go get Pinkie.” Ren shrugged with a smile before turning to me. “I believe that you can get her here. Just don’t get weirded out by her randomness.”

“Don’t worry, I think I can handle it...I think.” I nodded before running out of the barn and headed back to Ponyville, and finding Sugarcube Corner. Soon enough, I entered the place and saw a cerulean color pony with a crimson color mane on the front desk. Oh right, that was one of the owners of this place, Mrs. Cake, I think. She took notice of me and waved at me.

“Oh hello there dear. You must be one of those humans everypony in town were talking about, right?” The cerulean colored pony said, looking up and down on my body. “I think I remember from seeing you from the Princesses’ get-together party.”

“O-oh...I’m surprise that you remember me.” I asked, surprised that she would remember me since we barely met each other. “You’re Mrs. Cake, right?”

“Yes, I’m Mrs. Cake, so glad you remember me, despite we never cross paths before.” She chuckled.

“Well, I remember one of my friends mentioning your names.” I said, remembering the party back when I first arrived to this world. “So anyway, I was wondering if Pinkie Pie was here?”

“Oh I believe so. I’ve been hearing some voices upstairs and it’s strange since the baby dragon she brought over just left a while ago while he was eating a bunch of gems, so I’m not sure if she has other company with her.” This caused me to form a confused expression. Other company? Wonder what she’s talking about?

“What do you mean? None of my friends aren’t here.” I said to her with confusion.

“That’s what I thought too. Really strange…” Something isn’t it...I need to go and check up on her.

“Alright, I’ll go see her, bye Mrs. Cake!” I waved goodbye to her as I ran upstairs and saw Pinkie’s room door. Just what is going on with her? What sorta company does she have? And Mrs. Cake mentioned a baby dragon that left here a while ago. Why did Pinkie brought Spike here and just left? All these questions that were going on my head has been answered as I began hearing some noises coming from Pinkie’s room. I slowly opened the door and widened my eyes to find out this ‘company’ Pinkie was talking about.

“Thank you all so much for coming! It means so much to Gummy!” Pinkie exclaimed as she was near a table that was filled with a giant cake.

“Pinkie?...” I called to her as she slowly turned around with a big grin and her eyes twitching.

“Oh...Hello Kaede, so glad you could make it.” Pinkie said as her left eye was twitching. “At least there’s somepony else who appreciates me! Right everypony?” Everypony? But there’s no else here.

“You tell them Pinkie!” Huh? I turned around to see Pinki grabbing and talking through a...bowl of punch. Whaaaat?...

“This is one great party! You’ve really outdone yourself!” Pinkie said through a pile of rocks around her forelegs. Okay, this is actually starting to get more weirder.

“Why thank you Mr. Rocky!” Pinkie responded to the...rocks…

I’m starting to think that I shouldn’t have come here to get her.

“Umm...What are you doing Pinkie?” I asked fearfully with a uncomfortable expression.

“I’m just helping out my new ‘friends’!” Pinkie exclaimed with a creepy smile before muttering “Unlike my old so-called ‘friends’...”

“Hey wait! Is this about-”

“Thank Celestia that none of them PONIES nor the humans showed up.” Pinkie said through the pile of rocks.

“Oh, they’re not so bad….” Pinkie replied, staring at the ceiling as her eyes rolled away from each other and grew smaller. I’m starting to have fears around her even more.

“Not so bad? They’re a bunch of losers!” Pinkie said through the pile of rocks.

Pinkie then gave out a lifeless stare, like she wasn’t alive or something. She soon shook her head and looked at the pile of rocks.

“Oh don’t be like that Rocky, I’m sure they have their reasons!” Wait, did she literally called those pile of rocks…’Rocky’? “Besides, ‘losers’ might be a little strong ,don’t you think?”

“After the way they treated you? I say ‘losers’ isn’t strong enough.” Pinkie said, voicing a clump of lint.

“Well...it was pretty rude…”

“Pretty rude? It was downright despicable!” Pinkie voiced a sack of flour.

“It was, wasn’t it?” Pinkie assured, but the tone of her voice was irritating.

“If I were you, I wouldn’t speak to them ever again!” Pinkie voiced a bucket.

“You know what? I’m not gonna speak to them ever again. And I’m not gonna invite them to another party as long as I live! They don’t deserve to be invited to my parties!” Pinkie’s face began to twitch as she turned to me with a big creepy grin. “Well...all except for you Kaede.”

“Yeah…” I made a nervous grin at her as I couldn’t help but gawk at what she was doing. Voicing a bunch of objects? That’s just plain ridiculous! “But Pinkie, I’m not here because of your...party.”

“...What?” Pinkie’s right eye starting twitching at what I said.

“See, me and my friends have a special surprise for you and so I came over to pick you up.” I explained, causing Pinkie’s face to twitch in a weird way.

“Geez, you don’t say…” Why do I have the feeling that Pinkie is not gonna be happy for this.

“So anyway….let’s go over to Sweet Apple Acres?” I offered my hand to her, but she swatted away.

“No thank you!” Pinkie declined as she walked over to the sack of flour. “I’m spending time with my real friends. Isn’t that right, Madame LeFlour?” Uhh...what?

“Oy! That is correct, madame!” Pinkie voiced from the sack of flour. Okay, this is just getting even ridiculous.

“Pinkie...Pie?” I called for her, not wanting to be here anymore. “We’re going now!”

“Never!” Pinkie exclaimed. Well, guess I have no choice. I grabbed onto her forelegs and began pulling her away, but she was pulling back at me.

“You...need...to...come...with...me...now!”

“No...I...DON’T!” She raised her back legs, causing me to fall underneath her as she sat on top of my head. She jumped off of me as I got up and shook my head. Grr, this pony is so impossible!

“Pinkie Pie, come on!” I called for her as she sat back on the table and crossed her hooves with a ‘HMPH’ sound as she said “Sorry, but I won’t go! You will never get me out of this place! Never!!!” Okay, she’s being way over dramatic. Well, there’s gotta be something that can make her come out of Sugarcube Corner and towards Sweet Apple Acres…

Wait...I think I got an idea.



Later
Well that was easier than I thought. Apparently, I asked Mrs. Cake if I could borrow a bag of candy, which she nodded and handed it to me. I used it to attract Pinkie Pie to come over to Sweet Apple Acres, which worked by the way. All I do is just putting one piece of candy each on the ground and Pinkie just kept eating them along the way.

“Ooh! A piece of candy!” I heard Pinkie shouting in excitement. I still can’t believe that actually worked. Oh well, at least she’s here. “Ooh! A piece of candy!” Pinkie then finally appeared right in front of me, eating the last piece of candy before realizing where she was. “Hey! Where am I?”

I chuckled while rolling my eyes at her. She’s been eating her way here and didn’t know where she was going? Oh well, doesn’t matter, what matters is that she’s finally here. I opened the doors, revealing the decorated party for her, along with everyone there.

“Surprise!” We all screamed in unison, happily. Pinkie widened her eyes as she walked inside and looked around the party.

“Do you think she was surprise?” Kodi asked Ren.

“Yeah, of course, who wouldn’t?” Ren shrugged as we all smiled at Pinkie, who returned an irritated and angry look.

“I really thought she’d be more excited…” Fluttershy whispered to us. Yeah, I was thinking the same thing too, but I guess I can understand how she felt earlier because we made so many excuses to her and even avoid her pet’s After-Birthday party.

“Excited? EXCITED?! Why would I be excited be attend my own farewell party?!” Pinkie asked angrily, causing my friends to be confused while I became shocked to hear. Oh my, she’s taking this too far!

“Farewell party?” Twilight asked.

“Yes! You don’t like me anymore, so you all decided to kick me out of the group and throw a great, big party to celebrate! A ‘Farewell to Pinkie Pie’ party!” Pinkie answered.

“Why would we even do that?” Carrie asked, surprised that Pinkie would think of something like that.

“Yeah, why in the world would you think we didn’t like you anymore, sugarcube?” Applejack asked in a concern expression.

“Why? Why? WHY? Because you've been lying to me and avoiding me all day, that's why!” Wow, she’s really angry!

“Uh, yeah! Because we wanted your party to be a surprise.” Rainbow Dash explained.

“We've been planning this party since yesterday. We had to make excuses for why we couldn't attend Gummy's party, so that we could get everything ready for yours.” Rarity added as she played with a yellow balloon.

“We even helped out to commemorate the time you made those parties for us.” Ren nodded as he showed her the painting he made. It was a portrait of sweets, different kind of them and the background was pink. “See, I even made this for you.”

“And if this a farewell party, why does the cake that me and Rainbow Dash picked up from Sugarcube Corner say, ‘Happy Birthday, Pinkie Pie’?” Mason asked with a raised brow as he presented the cake on the table.

Pinkie Pie slowly looked around the room, noticing all the decorations and effort we had placed for her. Suddenly, her hair inflated back to its original self and she smiled happily once again. “Because it's my birthday! Ooh, how could I have forgotten my own birthday?” Pinkie Pie exclaimed as she pulled all of us for a group hug. Everyone, including me, returned sighs of relief. Pinkie Pie released her grip on us and began bouncing around the barn. “And you like me so much, you decided to throw me a surprise party!”

“Well of course, you’re the bestest friend we ever had!” Kodi exclaimed.

“And you made that party for us, so we had to do something!” Carrie added.

“You ponies and humans are the best friends ever!” Pinkie grinned before lowering her head and frowned. “How could I have ever doubted you?”

“It’s okay, Pinkie Pie.” Twilight assured. “It could have happened to any of us.” Yeah, she does have a point there.

“Twilight’s right, well besides that, I’m just glad you aren’t mad at us anymore.” I added, agreeing with Twilight while putting up a smile. “Happy Birthday Pinkie Pie.”

“Thanks everypony!” Pinkie gave us a big hug, causing us to smile happily. I’m really glad that Pinkie isn’t mad anymore. I’m...happy for her. If only wish my stepfamily would accepted me and stopped being so me-




W-what?! What’s going on? I began seeing an image of myself closing my eyes, as some sort of machine was on top of my head, and I was unfazed by it.

“W-why? Why are you doing this? We didn’t have a choice to do this.” What? Why am I saying?




“AH!” I gasped in shock, as my face went pale.

“Huh? Something wrong, Kaede?” Ren asked in worried.

“You almost look like you’ve seen a ghost.” Fluttershy said before shivering in fear.

“N-nothing, I’m fine.” I chuckled nervously before frowning. What was that? What was I even saying? This is just so...strange and weird.

“Hey, turn that frown upside down Kay!” Pinkie exclaimed, poking my nose.

“Huh?” I asked in a dumbfounded expression.

“Pinkie’s right! Enough of this gab.” Applejack exclaimed, agreeing with Pinkie. “Let’s party!”

“Yeah Mason, you need to party as well!” Carrie said, grabbing ahold of her brother’s hand.

“Y-yeah, I guess…” Mason muttered, covering his mouth with his long red scarf.

“Okay, but first…” Applejack went over to the table and brought out Pinkie’s birthday cake, which had several candles on it and they were all lit up.

“Okay, Pinkie Pie. Make a wish and blow all the candles!” Applejack exclaimed with a grin. Pinkie thought for a moment before she glanced at me, Ren, Mason, and Carrie before she blew all her birthday candles. I wonder why she looked at us?

“What did you wish for, Pinkie Pie?” Twilight asked.

“Well...I’m not supposed to tell…” Pinkie grinned.

“Aww…” Kodi’s ear dropped down in sadness until Pinkie say “But...I wished that we all remain best friends forever!” We all sighed happily that Pinkie would wish something like that.

“And also for Ren, Kaede, Carrie, and Mason to get back to their world someday.”

“What?” Mason asked as we all became surprised to hear that from her.

“Well yeah, I know it might be difficult for you guys not being in your world and all your friends and family must be so worried about you guys, so that’s why I use my birthday wish in hopes you all can go back to your world.” Pinkie explained.

“Wow Pinkie...I don’t know what to say…” Ren grinned happily. “Thank you.”

“Anytime Rennie!” Pinkie nodded before turning to me. “Oh, and Kaede? I’m sorry for acting like a big meanie back at Sugarcube Corner. Can we be friends again?” Pinkie then gave me the puppy dog stare, causing me to sigh. Jeez, why is it always the cute ones to give out those kind of stares?

“It’s okay Pinkie, I forgive you and we’ll always be friends. Best friends forever…” I chuckled happily as I smiled happily at her.

“YAY!” Pinkie exclaimed, giving me a big hug as I noticed the smiles on everyone’s faces. You know, I’m happy to be here, seeing everyone’s smiles, having such a good time, and never leave each other behind. I feel like I’m actually back at home…

“Now come on everybody!” Carrie called out. “Time to party!”

“And I have the perfect song for a time like this.” Ren said as he went over and took out a radio from underneath the table.

“A radio box?” I asked in surprise.

“Radio?” Rarity asked in confusion.

“It’s sorta a box that plays music.” Mason answered. “But where did you get that?”

“I found it in my closet apparently, and so, I thought it may be useful.” Ren soon started the radio, starting off with a classy music. Hey wait, isn’t this...Celebration? I love that song and its one of my top ten favorite songs!



“Come on everypony! Let’s party!” Pinkie exclaimed in joy as they began dancing around to beat. We all looked at each other and smiled happily as we joined them. Carrie grabbed Mason’s hand and dragged him to the dance floor.


(Pinkie):


(This is your celebration)


(This is your celebration)



Applejack, Fluttershy, and Carrie were bouncing a pink balloon to each other while Gummy stood in the middle trying to grab it with its mouth.



(Pinkie):


Celebrate good times, come (let’s celebrate)


Celebrate good times, come (let’s celebrate)



Rainbow Dash and Kodi went over to the cake to grab a slice, taking a bite of it. Rainbow then noticed the sadden look at Kodi’s face and gave him a slice, much to his joy. Rarity was by the music as she was dancing to it.



(Ren):


There’s a party going on right here!


A celebration to last throughout the years


So bring your good times and your laughter too!


We gonna celebrate your party with you


Come on now!



(Chorus):


Celebration!



(Ren):


Let’s all celebrate and have a good time!



(Chorus):
 Celebration!



(Ren):
We gonna celebrate and have a good time!



(Pinkie and Ren):
It’s time to come together


It’s up to you, what’s your please?




(Chorus):
Everyone around the world come on!



(Kodi and Carrie):
Yahoo!



I noticed Spike coming into the barn, seeing Rarity dancing with Mason, who was being taught how to dance by his own little sister.. He made a determined looked and quickly rushed over to her and began dancing as if he was trying to impress her.



(Pinkie):
It’s a celebration!



(Applejack and Rainbow Dash):


Yahoo!



(Pinkie):
Celebrate good times, come on!  (It’s a celebration)


Celebrate good times, come on! (It’s a celebration)



(Kaede):


There’s a party going on right here!
A dedication to last throughout the years!
So bring your good times and your laughter too


We gonna celebrate and party with you


Come on now!



(Chorus):
Celebration!



(Kaede):
Let’s all celebrate and have a good time!



(Chorus):
Celebration!



(Kaede):
We gonna celebrate and have a good time!



(Pinkie):
It’s time to come together!


It’s up to you, what’s your please?



(Chorus):
Everyone around the world come on!



(Fluttershy and Twilight):
Celebrate good times, come on! 

(Spike):
Let’s celebrate, come on now



(Pinkie and Rarity):
Celebrate good times, come on!



(Kodiak):


Let’s celebrate!



(Ren and Pinkie):
We’re gonna have a good time tonight!


Let’s celebrate, it’s all alright


We’re gonna have a good time tonight!


Let’s celebrate, it’s all right, baby


We’re gonna have a good time tonight!



(Chorus):
Celebration!



(Ren):
Let’s celebrate, it’s all right
We’re gonna have a good time tonight



(Chorus):


Celebration!



(Pinkie):
Let’s celebrate, it’s all right!



(Chorus):
Yahoo!



We all formed a conga line and began getting to the groove to the music!



(Chorus):


Yahoo!



(Ren, Kaede, and Pinkie):
Celebrate good times, come on!



(Twilight and Spike):
Let’s celebrate!



(Ren, Kaede, and Pinkie):
Celebrate good times, come on!

(Applejack and Rarity):
It’s a celebration!



(Ren, Kaede,and Pinkie):
Celebrate good times, come on!



(Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash):


Let’s celebrate!



(Ren, Kaede, and Pinkie):


Celebrate good times, come on!



(Carrie, Mason, and Kodi):


Come on and celebrate tonight!



(Ren):
Baby everything’s gonna be alright, let’s celebrate!



(Ren, Kaede, and Pinkie):


Celebrate good times, come on!


Celebrate good times, come on!



(Chorus):
Let’s have a great time, celebrate!



(Ren, Kaede, and Pinkie):
Celebrate good times, come on!


After finishing off that song, we all started laughing at how fun we were doing at Pinkie’s birthday party. You know, I’m quite happy to sing that song. You know, this has been the greatest day ever, despite all the...um...Pinkie's randomness.



Later
After Pinkie’s birthday party came to an end, me, Ren, Kodi, Carrie, and Mason headed back to the home-ship as it was getting late. Wow, time sure flies here in Equestria, huh?

“That was awesome! Especially the part where we all sang ‘Celebration’!” Carrie jumped in excitement.

“Yes, yes, sis, that was pretty nice.” Mason nodded in agreement. “But as of right now, it’s right past our bedtime, we should get some sleep.”

“Yeah…” Ren let out a yawn. “Oh well, at least I was able to get some of the sweets from the party.” Ren took out a cupcake from his pockets and took a bite of it, causing to laugh at him.

“Anyway, we should probably get going now.” Mason said as he picked up his sister, but something dropped out of his scarf. Kodi walked over and picked it up with his nose and sniffed at it.

“Hey, what’s this?” Kodi asked as Ren, Mason, and Carrie to turn around to see it.

“Hey, isn’t that a necklace?” Ren asked as he was about to take it from Kodi, but Mason quickly snatched it away. “H-hey!”

“I’m sorry, but you can’t touch this!” Mason said sternly.

“Huh, why’s that?” I asked.

“I can’t tell you, this necklace is very important.” Mason said, glaring at us.

“But why is it important to you Mason?” Ren asked in worried. “Please, we’ll understand.”

“Big brother…” Carrie looked at Mason with worried eyes, causing Mason to feel guilty and sigh.

“This necklace belongs to someone...very close to us.” Mason answered, causing me, Kodi, and Ren to be confused on that while Carrie became surprise.

“Wait, someone close to you?” Kodi asked.

“I’m sorry, but I can’t tell you. Why don’t I tell you next time? I know there’s a lot of questions about me, but…” Mason glanced away from us with sadness from his eyes. “...I’m sick of holding these secrets from you all. I’m done hiding my existence from others, and lying to myself…”

“Huh? What do you mean, Mason?” Ren asked in concern.

“....I’ll tell you next time, I promise. Come on, let’s go home.” With that, Mason took his leave towards the home-ship with his little sister in tow. Me, Ren, and Kodi blinked in surprise and looked at each other with worried. Mason...what’s going on? What did you mean lying to yourself and holding these secrets from us?

To Be Continued
> Chapter 26 - Best Night Ever!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tonight’s the big night! After three days of preparation, we were finally ready for the big night….The Grand Galloping Gala! Since the third day I got here in Equestria, I was wondering how long till it shows up! But now it’s finally here! Me, Kodi, and Spike were waiting from the lobby of the Carousel Boutique and I was already in my suit.

I wear a dark black suit, with a white shirt underneath, with a fancy red bowtie and black shoes with little heels on them. I was wearing white gloves as Rarity wanted me to wear them because she doesn’t like me using my ‘bear hooves’ to touch the food there. I was also given a pocket watch from her as well as I put it my shirt pocket like one of those fancy guys in those awesome movies I’ve seen back at my world.

I had to leave my Hacking Gun at home since Rarity started complaining that I can’t have weapons at the gala and that nothing will happen in the Grand Galloping Gala as it was a nice dance for all wealthy ponies who attend there. Even though that none of us are wealthy, or fancy and such. I mean, I’m just a normal 15 year old high schooler, so I don’t know much about saying fancy words.

Anyway, while we waited for Mason, and the rest of the girls, I decided to talk with both Kodi and Spike for a while.

“So Canterlot is where you and Twilight used to be, right?” I asked curiously.

“Well yeah, jealous huh?” Spike smirked at us as he was wearing his small tuxedo outfit. You know, the one where Twilight made it during our time when we learned about Pinkie’s Pie Pinkie Sense.

“But wait, Ren never been or know about that place, right?” Kodi asked, wearing his small black bowtie and small black hat.

“Oh...Right…” Spike smiled sheepishly at me. “Sorry about that, Ren.”

“Nah, it’s okay.” I assured with a wave. “So anyway, I remember that you and Twilight once told me that Canterlot was a nice luxury place, but filled with snobby wealthy ponies, right?”

“Yeah, but there are some wealthy ponies who are generous and nice towards others.” Oh I see, but to think that Canterlot was filled with jerky money grabbing ponies, it kinda reminds me of NYC since it’s filled with lots of grumpy people. But I can’t blame them since they do wake up very early due to work and loud noises from outside.

“So is everyone who is going to the Gala will be full of jerks, then?” Kodi asked worriedly. 

“Don’t worry boy, but I’m sure there might be good ponies at the gala, trust me.” I assured, scratching him by the neck, much to his joy. “Besides, we’re gonna have an epic time there since all those things are friends wanted to do when we first got the tickets will come true.

“Oh yeah…” Spike rubbed his head bashfully with a worried look.

“Something wrong Spike?”

“Yeah...you see-” Spike was then interrupted by a bunch of voices.

“We’re here!” We turned to see the girls and Mason coming out, and I gotta say, they look...stunning! Twilight, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie were wearing the exact same clothes we were wearing from the time we were holding that fashion show for Hoity-Toity, which still by the way, is a hilarious name.

Carrie was wearing the same outfit she wore from when she was modeling with Fluttershy for Photo Finish, b, but for Kaede and Mason, these were new designs.

Kaede was wearing a dark blue dress that seemed to nearly covered her cleavage and was wearing those long leg socks that reached over to the top of her legs, and was wearing blue hi-heels. Her hair was perfectly brushed (probably from Rarity) and it was tied to a side ponytail, which was from the right side, and it seemed pretty long since Kaede’s hair is long. She was even given two golden bracelets for each of her hand, and it was a perfect size.

As for Mason, he was wearing a red suit with large frills on the front. He was wearing the same white gloves as me. He was also wearing black shoes, with little heels, and his hair was neatly combed, and didn’t have his bamboo pole. It seems Rarity forced him to put it away as well. He wasn’t even wearing his scarf at all, so it’s rare to see him without it.

“Wow, you all look amazing!” I exclaimed in amazement.

“W-we do?” Fluttershy asked. “I-I mean...Well…”

“No, I’m serious Flutters, you look awesome, along with the others!” I noticed Fluttershy blushing while the other girls chuckled. Huh? Wonder why’s that?

“Well, what about me Ren?” Twilight asked, showing off her violet star-themed dress.

“You look awesome as well Twi.” I said, smiling at her, but quickly noticing that she was blushing while she was smiling. Why is it that these girls always blush whenever I make a good comment about them? Weird…

“Wow Kaede, you look beautiful!” Kodi exclaimed, wagging his little tail. Kaede blushed a bit and responded “Well, Rarity prepared this for me the moment I got the tickets, and I decided to help her a little. All I did was go over the designs and help Rarity over the choice of which kind of dress I should make.”

“Well either way, this is the best dress I could make for you, Kaede.” Rarity said, smiling at her.

“Oh...thank you Rarity.” Kaede muttered while she blushed in embarrassment.

“So where's your bamboo stick, Mason?” Spike asked curiously, noticing his bamboo stick was gone..

“I was forced to put it away by Rarity because of the gala....but still” Mason replied, causing me to raise a brow. Did he wished to keep his bamboo stick pole for if something bad happened at the Grand Galloping Gala?

“Come on big brother, we’ll be fine!” Carrie assured, grabbing her brother’s hand. “I mean, we’re just gonna have fun and all!”

“...I guess I see your point…” Mason thought before saying “But still, I’ll still bring it with me, no complaining please.”

“Fine…” Rarity sighed before looking at Mason with suspicion. “But I rather not for you to do nothing brash or anything else. This is the Grand Galloping Gala we’re talking about you know.”

“We know!” We all exclaimed in annoyance, being reminded by that again. She kept reminding us about that whole thing for the past three days.

“Oh my, it’s almost night time.” Twilight said, looking through the window and saw the sun started to set.

“We better get going!” Rainbow exclaimed impatiently. 

“But wait, how are we gonna get to the gala?” Carrie asked curiously.

“Don’t worry, I got this. Follow me.” Twilight headed outside with us following after her. Once we were outside, she turned to Spike and asked “Spike, did you bring the apple like I asked?”

“Oh yeah, here ya go!” Spike took off his hat and took out an apple and handed it to her.

“An apple?” Pinkie asked aloud. “Are we having pie?”

“In a time like this?” Mason questioned with a raised brow. “Yeah, I don’t think so.”

“Doesn’t matter! Just do whatever you’re gonna do with it Twilight!” Rainbow exclaimed. “I really need to get to the gala so I could spend some time with the Wonderbolts!”

“Wonderbolts?” Kaede asked confusedly.

“Supposedly...A famous air relay team.” I answered, which Kaede made a ‘Ahh’ sound about that.

“Shh!” Spike quieted down our conversation. “Watch!”

Twilight then closed her eyes and concentrated her magic, and soon, a light glow appeared from her horn and soon, the apple started levitating and began changing into…

“Whoa!” Me and the others muttered in amazement and awe. Mason was surprised as for what Twilight did to the apple. It was turned into a carriage.

“Wow, it’s like from a disney princess movie.” Carrie said in awe. Well yeah, from Cinderella! I should probably watch it again after the Grand Galloping Gala is over.

“Thanks, but that’s just the start.” Twilight then walked towards both Mason and Fluttershy. “So did you two bring what I asked?”

“Yes.” Fluttershy nodded happily as two mice appeared from her mane.

“Yes, just like you requested.” Mason nodded as two mices appeared out his hair. They lowered their heads to allow the mice to descent towards the ground. “But are you sure this spell of yours won’t cause any side effects?”

“Yes, I wouldn’t want to see them getting hurt or worse.” Fluttershy nodded in agreement.

“Don’t worry you two, I know the spell wouldn’t hurt them.” Twilight assured in a confident way. Wait, is she gonna turn them into what I think they’re gonna be? Because if so, then this will make the Fairy Godmother very proud of Twilight for mastering something like this. Soon, Twilight focused her magic on the four little mice and soon...they were turned into stallions. Well except, they still had their ears...and their tails...and their noses….even their teeths. 

“Ta-da!” Twilight presented with a weak grin, but we gave her surprised and confused expressions.

“Umm...I don’t think stallions are supposed to look like that.” Kodi tilted his head in confusion.

“Well...even so, it’s still neat, huh?” Twilight said nervously.

“Well even with a few..um...minor differences.” Kaede said, coughing nervously before softly smiling. “They still look good, so how long does your spell last, Twilight?”

“Well it should last at midnight.” Twilight answered, causing me to slightly widened my eyes. That’s definitely the same thing the Fairy Godmother said to Cinderella when she was trying to go to the ball to meet with the prince from the movie! Wow, it seems like this world and ours really are similar to each other! Wait till Jonas and Lilli hears this...if I find a way back to our world I mean.

“Opalescence, no!” We heard Fluttershy shouted. Wait, did she say Opalescence? As in that pet cat of Rarity’s? We turned to see Opal sneaking around the bush and glared at the mice. Kodi growled angrily and exclaimed “Hey! Leave them alone!” 

Soon, he pounced at her, causing Opal to panic and evaded the pounce from Kodi.

“K-Kodi wait!” I tried to stop him, but he wouldn’t listen! Dang it, I forgot how much dogs and cats hate each other! Kodi soon started chasing Opal around in circles until Opal jumped onto the mouse stallions, and once they noticed her, they became extremely scared and ran off, dropping Opal in the process.

“Oh no!” Carrie exclaimed in shock. “They’re gone!”

“Darn it!” Applejack stomped her hoof on the ground. “Now what?!”

“Can’t we just get more mice?!” Rainbow suggested impatiently.

“I can’t! It would be too late to find more!” Twilight exclaimed before widening her eyes as she slightly turned to Mason. 

“If you’re thinking of using my squirrel friends, then don’t.” Mason glared at her, causing Twilight to sigh. “Besides, they’re at home and resting. I already fed them before we came over to the shop.”

“Fine, but we need another way to get to the Gala…” Twilight rubbed her chin in thought. I decided to think of an idea as well...Wait…

“Why not let me and Mason pull the carriage?” I suggested, surprising everyone.

“You’re kidding, right?” Mason asked, raising a brow at me.

“I’m sorry Mason, but with you and Mason’s strength, you two wouldn’t be able to carry us all the way to Canterlot.” Twilight explained.

“Plus, you two might hurt yourselves.” Fluttershy added with worried.

“Yeah...not the best plan, I guess…” I rubbed my head bashfully while sweat-dropping.

“Yeah, totally not the best plan.” Kodi chuckled nervously.

“Great, now what?!” Rainbow exclaimed in anger. We tried to think another way to do that until we saw three different stallions walking nearby as we looked each other and thought that maybe it might worked, unless we gain their permission.

“Should we?” Carrie asked in concern.

“It’s like we got no choice.” Kaede shrugged.

“Umm...Excuse me fine gentle-stallions.” Rarity walked up to them with a soft smile. “Would you boys care to pull our carriage to the Gala at Canterlot, please?” Rarity pleaded as she grinned at them, and they only returned nervous smiles.

“Well...that was easy.” I said, sweat-dropping. 

“You can say that again.” Kodi nodded in agreement. Oh well...at least we found a way to get to the gala in time.





And so, we were being pulled by the stallions Rarity asked politely to carry us to the Grand Galloping Gala. Spike and Mason were in front, making sure that the stallions stay focus and go a little faster towards the path to Canterlot. While we rode our way to our destination, I was thinking what should I do at the Grand Galloping Gala. Hmm, maybe I can do a little dancing...Nah, probably not. How about go and eat whatever they have at the gala. Yeah, that might sound like a good idea. I don’t know, I’ve never been to a fancy party like this before, so I don’t know what’s it like.

“Hey, Equestria to Ren, you there?” Huh? I blinked to see Rainbow waving her hoof at me. 

“H-huh? What is it, Dash?” I asked, smiling sheepishly.

“We were just talking about what we’re gonna do at the gala, and then asked you, but you were staring into space.” Dash replied. Oh, I guess I was overthinking about it, did I?

“Ooh wait! Can he really do that?!” Pinkie asked in excitement. “Can you really see the wonders of the universe Rennie?!”

“Umm...no?” I raised a brow, uncomfortable about Pinkie looking straight at me in the eyes. “But anyway, I don’t know. I guess I’ll see what peeks my interest there.” I shrugged.

“Well maybe you can help me sell my apples friders?” Applejack suggested. 

“Or maybe spend some time with me at the garden so that we can play with the animals there?” Fluttershy offered.

“How about you come with me to see and talk with Princess Celestia?” Twilight asked.

“Ooh! Maybe you can dance around and eat at the party?!” Pinkie added.

“Maybe you can be my royal escort to Prince Blueblood, instead?” Rarity grabbed my arm with a soft smile.

“How about you skip them and hang out with me and the rest of the Wonderbolts?!” Rainbow pleaded.

“Girls, girls, calm down.” I said, uncomfortable for them getting this close at me. “I told you, I’ll just see what’s in store for me at the gala.”

“Oh alright…” The girls said in unison, bummed out by my decision.

“Well if it makes you feel alright, I could hang out with you Twilight and see Princess Celestia with you.” Kaede said with a smile. “I mean, I do want to see her one more time.”

“That’s great! Thanks Kaede.” Twilight nodded happily.

“Hey, can I hang out with you Pinkie?” Carrie asked her, which Pinkie nodded.

“Sure! We can dance around to the awesome music and make new friends at the gala!” Pinkie replied with her cheerful grin.

“Well…” I was still unsure on what I should do there, but I guess I could hang out with one of them. “I guess I do want to see some of the animals that Fluttershy were talking about. I could maybe identify them since these animals she’s talking about might be from my world.”

“Wow! Thank you Ren!” Fluttershy said happily. You know, it wouldn’t be bad to hang out with one of my friends. Maybe after we’re done seeing the animals, I could see what else everypony is gonna do at the gala. I already what they’re gonna do since they told me when I was still getting used to living here in Equestria, but I wanted to see how things might work at the gala. 





Meanwhile
Mason’s POV
Huh, it’s very strange actually. I got into a world of ponies, and somehow, I became friends with them, and now, I’m going to a dance. You should know, this isn’t my first time going to a gala, after all. I have been to many gala’s, but...should I still tell them who I really am? I’m not sure if they even seen me before back in our world like in the news, but still...would they even believe me or my sister?

“Hey Mason, you alright bud?” My thoughts were cut-off as I turned to a worried dragon. 

“Y-yes, I am fine.” I replied, letting out a cough.

“Are you sure? Because you look like you were depressed about something. You sure you don’t want to tell me?” Spike asked worriedly.

“No, I am fine, but thank you for asking.” I softly smiled at him. “So anyway, what are you gonna do at the Gala?”

“Oh, well I’m glad you asked, Mason!” Spike exclaimed happily. “Well I planned out my insider’s tour of Canterlot. I’ve gotta show Rarity the crown jewels. And Applejack the Princess’s golden apple tree. And Pinkie, we gotta go to my favorite donut shop.” Spike looked over to heart shaped window where the girls, my sister, Ren and his pet dog sat inside speaking to each other. 

“Hmm, you seemed pretty excited.” I replied with a smile before frowning a bit. “But what about the Gala?”

“Well, that’s the problem!” Spike exclaimed sadly. “The things the girls are going to do aren’t gonna go as plan.”

“What do you mean by that?” I asked, feeling like this might be trouble for them.

“Well, Fluttershy wants to meet the animals in Celestia’s gardens, but all of them are scared and timid around everypony except Princess Celestia, even at the Grand Galloping Gala. Applejack won’t be able sell food because there’s already food given out at the buffet line, even though what they serve isn’t really considered tasty. Rarity wants to meet Prince Blueblood, and she doesn’t even know what’s he like besides me and Twilight. Rainbow wants to hang out with the Wonderbolts, but they can’t because they’ll be talking with a lot of their fans, so that’ll be a problem. Pinkie thinks that the Gala’s a big party, but it’s a formal party, and Twilight won’t be able to talk with the princess in a normal conversation since they’ll be too many ambassadors and such around here.” Spike explained. 

I couldn’t help but sigh at this. Yeah, this will be definitely be a problem. “I guess I can understand, but sometimes things don’t go as plan. I mean, this party is filled with many wealthy and high class ponies, correct?”

“Yeah, so?” Spike raised a brow at me.

“Well, maybe it might be a possibility that they might enjoy themselves, even if they don’t like the way how the Gala goes, I can tell by experience.” Trust me, I really been to so many gala’s when I was back on Earth. 

“Huh? What do you mean by experience? You’ve been to a gala before, Mason?” Spike asked curiously. I became surprised to realize that I would say something like that. I wasn’t supposed to tell him that.

“Y-you can say that…” I muttered as I glanced away and saw our destination a mile away. “But anyway, I can see Canterlot anyway.”

“Oh right! Huh, time sure flies, eh?” Spike nudge me on the arm with a smirk on his face. “But anyway, come on, let’s go! Hyah!” Spike slapped the ponies with the reins he had. It seemed a little forceful for us to use this on them since they can talk and all, but he said that this was the only thing that can get them to carry the whole carriage.

“Hey!” One of them exclaimed angrily.

“Um...sorry?” Spike smiled nervously at them.

“If you weren’t friends with our neighbor, Rarity…” The second stallion added, shaking his hoof. “Hmph!”

“Please, let us calm down and relax. I am sorry for what my friend did.” I said to them, while they sighed and continued their way, but right before they glared coldly at Spike. Spike chuckled nervously and started whistling. Sorry Spike, but I’m afraid you’re just digging your grave even farther.

Soon then, we finally entered Canterlot, which was almost like a kingdom and we saw many ponies gathered in groups and were having a conversation. Soon as we finally arrived to the Grand Galloping Gala, which was revealed to be a giant white castle, presumably Princess Celestia’s castle, Spike made a stopped as we got off our seats and opened the door for our friends. 

“Whoa…” They all exclaimed as the witness how many ponies were entering the Gala.

“This place is amazing!” Ren exclaimed in excitement.

“They’re sure a lot of ponies here.” Carrie said in awe. 

“Yeah, but hey! We’ll have tons of fun here, right?” Kaede asked happily.

“Of course it is partner!” Applejack nodded happily. “Can’t wait to set up my cart here and make tons of easy bits!” This caused me to frown as I remember what Spike said to me. I need to tell them about the problems here, but...seeing them this excited, I don’t want them to be disappointed, so I guess I have no choice but hide the truth from them.

“Oh man, I’m so nervous, I don’t know what I wanna do here!” Kodi exclaimed.

“Relax boy, you can hang out with me and Fluttershy if you want.” Ren said, rubbing Kodi’s head, much to his joy. 

“Yeah.” Kodi nodded in agreement. I couldn’t help but smile at him and Kodiak’s bond with each other. Kinda reminds me of my bond with my sister, my two pet squirrels, and...her…

“Hey, big brother?” Huh? I felt like someone tugging my sleeve as I looked down to see my sister looking at me with a smile on her face. 

“Hm? Yes Carrie?”

“Can I hang out with Pinkie Pie? I want to enjoy the music and dancing with her! Pretty please?” Carrie pleaded, causing me to sigh and smile at her.

“Sure thing sis.” I nodded, causing her to jumped for joy.

“Alright, you hear that Pinkie?!” Carrie asked her, which she nodded happily and replied “I did and I’m excited that we could spend time with each other! Come on Carrie, let your Auntie Pinkie Pie take you to the wonderful land of the Grand Galloping Gala!” With that, she grabbed Carrie and began heading inside of the place, with us following after them. However, I seemed to notice some ponies looking at us in shock and confusion. 

Makes sense, I mean, everyone back in Ponyville practically accepted us because we wouldn’t bring harm to us, but they don’t know that. Princess Celestia may have told them about us to everyone who lives in Equestria, but they haven’t accepted this fact it seems.

I couldn’t help but smile softly that Carrie made another friend with these ponies, but became confused on one thing.

“...How old is Pinkie Pie anyway?” I asked curiously.

“Yeah, I was thinking the same thing.” Kaede agreed, a little confused about Pinkie’s age. “It’s hard to tell because of her...um...personality.”

“Yeah, I give up trying to solve that.” Ren shrugged. Soon, music began to play in the background. 

“Wait, what the?” I asked, looking around the place, trying to figure out where that’s coming from.

“Well it looks like we’re gonna have another musical number.” Ren said, smiling but noticing our confused expressions. “What I mean is that for some reason, this place is quite famous with musical numbers.”

“Yeah but...who’s playing the music?” Kaede asked.

“That...I don’t know.” Ren rubbed his head sheepishly. Oh well, I too have given up trying to figure out this place as well. 


(Twilight Sparkle):
At the Gala




(Choir):
At the Gala




(Fluttershy):
At the Gala
In the garden
I'm going to see them all
All the creatures
I'll befriend them at the Gala




(Choir):
At the Gala




(Fluttershy):
All the birdies
And the critters
They will love me big and small
We'll become good friends forever
Right here at the Gala!




(Choir):
All our dreams will come true
Right here at the Gala
At the Gala




(Applejack):
At the Gala (It's amazing)
I will sell them (Better hurry)
All my appletastic treats (Yummy yummy)
Hungry ponies (They'll be snacking)
They will buy them (Bring your money)
Caramel apples, apple sweets (Gimme some)
And I'll earn a lot of money
for the Apple family!




(Choir):
All our dreams and our hopes from now until hereafter
All that we've been wishing for will happen at the Gala
At the Gala




(Rarity):
At the Gala
All the royals
They will meet fair Rarity
They will see I'm just as regal at the Gala




(Choir):
At the Gala




(Rarity):
I will find him
My Prince Charming
And how gallant he will be
He will treat me like a lady
Tonight at the Gala!




(Choir):
This is what we've waited for to have the best night ever
Each of us will live our dreams
Tonight at the Gala
At the Gala

A musical began to play from the castle as they all saw the Wonderbolts fly overhead, pulling off a performance for those watching from inside the castle or walking toward the castle.

(Rainbow Dash):
Been dreamin'
I've been waitin'
To fly with those great ponies
The Wonderbolts, their daring tricks
Spinning round and having kicks
Perform for crowds of thousands
They'll shower us with diamonds
The Wonderbolts will see me right here at the Gala!




(Choir):
All we've longed for
All we've dreamed
Our happy ever after
Finally will all come true
Right here at the Grand Gala
At the Gala




(Pinkie Pie):
I am here at the Grand Gala
For it is the best party
But the one thing it was missing was a pony named Pinkie
For I am the best at parties, all the ponies will agree
Ponies playing
Ponies dancing
With me at the Grand Gala!
(Choir):
Happiness and laughter at the Gala
At the Gala

Flying up at the top of the central spire, Princess Celestia flew over as sparkles were left behind as she made an arch above her castle. As the alicorn disappeared back inside, me, Kaede, Ren, and Carrie couldn’t help but feel amazed that Princess Celestia was able to pull that off.




(Twilight Sparkle):
At the Gala (At the Gala)
With the Princess (With the Princess)
Is where I'm going to be (She will be)
We will talk all about magic and what I've learned and seen (She will see)
It is going to be so special
As she takes time just for me (This will be the best night ever!)




(Choir):
Into the Gala we must go
We're ready now, we're all aglow
Into the Gala, let's go in and have the best night ever
Into the Gala, now's the time
We're ready and we look divine!




(Choir, Ren, Fluttershy):
Into the Gala
(Ren and Fluttershy):
Meet new friends




(Choir and Applejack):
Into the Gala




(Applejack):
Sell some apples



(Choir, Mason, Rarity):
Into the Gala




(Rarity):
Find my Prince




(Choir and Rainbow Dash):
Prove I'm great




(Rainbow Dash):
As a Wonderbolt is




(Fluttershy and Ren):


To meet!




(Applejack)


To sell!




(Rarity):


To find!




(Rainbow Dash):


To prove!




(Pinkie Pie and Carrie):


To whoop!




(Twilight and Kaede):


To talk!




(All):
Into the Gala
Into the Gala
And we'll have the best night ever!
At the Gala!


Soon after that whole….ordeal. Me, Kaede, Kodi, Carrie, Ren couldn’t help but smiled at our friends singing along with the other ponies.

“Wow, that was amazing! Kinda like when we were singing ‘Celebration’ back at Pinkie’s birthday party.” Kaede spoke up, reminded herself of the birthday party we held for Pinkie Pie.

“Yeah, I think I’m gaining the hang of these musical numbers.” Ren said, putting his hands behind his head with a tooth-eating grin on his face.

“I’m still wondering why did music appeared out of nowhere like that?” Carrie wondered out loud.

“That’s a good question…” Kodi slowly nodded in agreement.

“Well either way, let it be a reminder if we ever hear something like that again, it seems we’ll have no choice but be a part of these musical numbers.” I said with a serious expression, which they all nodded in agreements.

“Yeah! This is gonna be the best night ever!” Spike exclaimed excitedly. “You know why? Cause we’re all gonna spend time at the Gala to-” Unfortunately, everyone went their own separate ways. Carrie went with Pinkie like she promised and after gaining my permission, Ren and Kodiak followed Fluttershy to go and check out the animals out on the garden, Rainbow Dash went to go see her favorite idols, Applejack went over to find a good spot to place her cart to sell her apple fritters, and Twilight and Kaede went over to go and talk with Princess Celestia. Only that remains where me, Spike, and Rarity.

“Ahh man…” Spike muttered sadly.

“I am sorry if things didn't go as you thought it would, Spike.” I tried to cheer him up, even putting up a soft smile at him.

“Thanks, but I was really hoping that we would all spend time with each other, but guess I was wrong.” Spike sighed.

“Ooh, don’t feel bad Spikey-Wikey, I’m sure that maybe after we’re done with our things, we can all meet back up with each other and have fun.” Rarity assured.

“Okay…” Spike then took his leave, much to our confusion.

“Wait, where are you going?” I asked curiously.

“Oh, since everyone is gonna be having on their own, I was thinking that I could help over to Donut Joe’s Donut shop, besides, I told you, these kind of things aren’t my thing.” Donut Joe? What is up with these ridiculous names? “So anyway, see ya later.”

“Bye I guess…” I said with a sigh. Well, it looks like I’m just going by myself.

“Well, since we’re alone Mason.” Rarity turned to me with a soft grin on her face. Why do I have the feeling that she’s planning something with me in it? “There’s something I must ask you.”

“And that is?” I raised a brow as Rarity took a deep breath and pleased “Can you please be my royal escort?” 

“I’m sorry, what?” I asked confusedly.

“Well I mean…” Rarity cleared her throat as she said “If I’m going to meet the Prince of Equestria and the finest stallions of Canterlot, I need to look professional like royalty.”

“Really?” I asked.

“Yes, so I thought with a human as my royal escort, since you know, you and the others are quite a big deal here in Equestria.” Rarity chuckled. “I thought I could ask you or Ren to do that! But Ren is too busy with Fluttershy, so you’re my only hope left Mason! Please!”

“...I guess why not.” I replied, glancing away nervously. I mean, this isn’t the first time I had to be a royal escort, you know.

“Excellent! Come along!” Rarity grabbed ahold of my hand and began walking towards me through the gala, while I ignored everyone’s look at me.

“What in dear blazes is that thing?”

“It’s walking on two! That’s not normal!”

“It’s certainly isn’t!”

“It almost looks like a monkey or something.” I had to restrain my anger from them. For them calling me a monkey, that’s just insulting. I decided to speak with Rarity while ignoring everyone’s concerning and curious looks.
“So I take it you’re a fan of this Prince Blueblood, correct?” I asked.

“Well of course Mason!” Rarity nodded happily as we walked through the buffet table. “He’s the most dreamiest, the most handsome, the most charming pony of all of Equestria!” Rarity began sighing happily upon daydreaming him. I scoffed at what she said, it’s not going to be a surprise just how childish and arrogant this so-called ‘prince’ shall be. I’ve meant many men like this Blueblood character, and most of them don’t like sharing their treasures to help their kingdom nor be nice to their servants. 

“You know Rarity, it sounds like you wished to become a part of the royal family.” I pointed out. “Are you just doing this because of money, or power?”

“What on Equestria are you talking about Mason, darling?” Rarity asked, raising a brow at me as she stopped and looked at me with a soft smile. “I don’t care about money or power, I care about is true love.” 

This caused me to be surprised to hear this from her. “T-true love?”

“Why yes, you see, after hearing about Prince Blueblood and how charming he looked at the magazines, I instantly fell in love with him! I always imagined him and I would love each other by first sight and share our first true love’s kiss, and be together forever!” Rarity explained. “That’s my reason as to why I love him because I wish to be in his hooves forever!”

“True love…” I muttered, feeling a bit depressed. I wonder...was it the same for me and her back then? I always kept pushing those feelings away from her since...No, I mustn’t think of that! I’m not what they say I am!

“Mason? What is ever the matter?” I blinked in surprise as I looked at the concern Rarity.

“I-It’s nothing, honest. Just a little surprised by your explanation as to why you’re so farfetch’d with this Prince Blueblood pony, that’s all.” I lied, letting out a sigh. I guess I could tell them till after the Gala? I don’t know about that…

“Well either way! Let’s make our way to find my special somepony! Come along!” Rarity soon grabbed my hand and began pulling me around the place to look for Prince Blueblood. You know, she sorta reminds me of her back then...her determination...her generosity...her nature….it’s just like her back on earth.





Later
Ren’s POV
“Whoa, this is one big garden…” I muttered, amazed just how big the garden area is. Well it makes sense for a princess like Celestia to have a really big garden. I noticed some ponies noticing me and Kodi and Fluttershy, but mostly at me. They were muttering something about me, which I couldn’t hear. I wouldn’t blame them since me and the others are quite famous in Equestria since we are the very first species in this world. 

“Ren, are you okay?” Fluttershy asked me in worried, seeing me looking around the guests looking straight at me.

“Nothing, I’m just noticing the guests here looking at me.” I responded, chuckling nervously.

“Yeah, they’re looking at you like your a famous celebrity or something.” Kodi pointed out. Well, that’s because I’m sorta famous here in this world.

“Well don’t worry Ren.” Fluttershy assured with her usual soft smile. “We’re gonna go at the other side of the garden to meet up with the animals.” Fluttershy grabbed my hand and took me and Kodi to the other side of the garden. Soon enough, we looked around to see nopony around.

“Wow, nopony’s here.” I said aloud.

“Well since this place is filled with the cutest animals from other parts of Equestria, it makes why.” Fluttershy explained until we saw something flown between us.

“What in Equestria was that?” Kodi asked in shock as Fluttershy gasped happily and exclaimed “Oh my! A meadowlark!”

“A meadow-what?” I asked raising a brow.

“A Meadowlark are very rare in Equestria, and I can’t believe we’re the first to ever witness it Ren!” Fluttershy jumped around in joy, but until she realized that me and Kodi were still here. “Oops...sorry.”

“Nah, it’s okay Flutters, I’m actually happy that you get to see some animals that you never seen before. In fact, this is the first time I’m seeing you this excited.” I replied with a small chuckle, but not before noticing the blushing from Fluttershy.

“Why is she blushing like that, Ren?” Kodi asked, which caused me to shrug. Suddenly, we began to hear some whistling, which made Fluttershy even more excited.

“I think she’s calling to me. It’s exactly what I wished for!” She then began humming, probably communicating towards it, and soon, the whistling came back. “Come on! Let’s go Ren and Kodiak!” She grabbed my hand and started taking to where the whistling is being heard.

“Hey, wait for me!” Kodi exclaimed, following after us. She kept whistling back towards the Meadowlark and soon found where it was. 

“My little meadowlark is right around this bend!” Fluttershy exclaimed, pointing over to the other side of the bush. However, as we looked over the bushes, we didn’t see a meadowlark, but instead, it was a old pony raking some leaves while he whistled. 

“Wait, was that you dude?” I asked, blinking in surprise.

“Yep! I love whistling while I work!” He replied happily before he continued whistling.

“O-oh! Yes...Well...Excuse us…” Fluttershy smiled weakly as she slowly began walking away, looking very disappointed and sad.

“Flutters…” I muttered sadly before smiling softly and was about to respond until we started to hear more sounds, and those were animal sounds.

“Oh! I heard it!” Fluttershy immediately perked up and brought back her smile as she saw a bunch of animals over at the other end of the garden.

“Oh! I see a Toco Toucan!” Fluttershy pointed over to the bird. “And a spider monkey! And, oh! Is that a wallaroo?” Fluttershy immediately flew towards them with her happy smile, but the moment they took notice of her, they immediately ran away from her, causing her to be depressed again. “Oh, Fluttershy...You’re such a loudmouth…”

“Hey don’t worry Flutters, I’m sure they’re just scared of meeting a pony here, that’s all.” I assured with a soft smile. “I mean, I know you’re the kindest and caring pony in the entire world, so I’m sure they’ll get used to you for a while, trust me.”

“Yeah, we believe in you Fluttershy!” Kodi nodded in agreement.

“R-really? You really think so?” Fluttershy asked with widened eyes.

“Of course, like Kodi said, we believe in you Flutters.” I smiled happily at her.

“T-thank you…” Fluttershy muttered.

“If it makes you feel better, I can go and find some punch for us, how does that sound?” I asked curiously.

“Yes please.” Fluttershy nodded before saying “But do you know where the buffet table is? I don’t want you to get lost and such.”

“Nah, I can totally find it.” I rubbed my head bashfully before looking down at Kodiak. “Hey Kodi, can you stay with Fluttershy please?”

“You got it, pal!” Kodi nodded happily as he barked happily, causing me to rub his head, making him wag his little tail. 

“Thanks, I’ll be back in a jiff!” I said as I walked off and decided to head over to the inside of the gala to get to the buffet table. While I headed my way, avoiding some pony gazes, I noticed two familiar individuals walking through the garden.

“Rarity? Mason?” I said aloud, seeing the two walk through the garden together. Why are they together? I mean, if Spike saw this, I saw he’ll be immediately jealous and outrage upon seeing his secret crush hanging out with my own friend.

Soon, they walked towards a pony which made me amazed to see. He had blonde hair mane while sporting with a beautiful black vest and while he wore a dark blue bowtie, and his Cutie-Mark is a compass. I wonder if he’s an expert in maps or something like that? Soon, I saw Mason himself holding Rarity’s hoof and took her straight to that pony. Wait, could it be? Is that Prince Blueblood himself? Huh, she wasn’t exaggerating that he looked quite handsome and charming.

“Excuse me?” I heard Rarity speak up towards the prince. He turned to see both Rarity and Mason, and he was quite surprised to see Mason, but ignored him. Mason let go of Rarity’s hoof and bowed to him.

“I am sorry for my appearance, but I am here as a guest and escort for Miss Rarity.” Mason addressed. “And also, if you are asking about what I am, I am a human. I’m sure your aunt, Princess Celestia, told you about this, am I correct?”

“Umm...yes. Though, I’m surprised that the description she told me was quite...accurate, if I do say so myself.” Blueblood said, smiling softly before looking at Rarity. “And I take it your?...”

“Why I am Rarity, but you may call me Miss Rarity, if you want, your charming prince.” Rarity bowed at him before noticing a red rose in front of him. Blueblood noticed it and smiling happily.

“Ah, a beautiful red rose for a beautiful pony, eh?” Blueblood wiggled his eyebrows, causing Rarity to chuckle lightly while Mason stood there with a serious expression. 

“Yes, it’s quite beautiful, and it might be perfect for a little somepony.” Rarity chuckled.

“Oh you mean...this red rose?” Blueblood took the red rose and Rarity expected him to put it on her mane, but instead, he putted it in his vest. “I know, right? This rose makes a perfect fit for my wonderful vest!” Soon, he took his leave, leaving a shocked Rarity and an irritated Mason.

“Oh...I see…” Rarity sighed sadly. Mason looked at her in worried before glaring angrily towards the prince as he walked away like it was nothing. I just stood there watching the whole thing with a surprised expression. Well, I kinda never saw that coming, but I feel so bad for Rarity. She doesn’t deserve that kind of treatment, I mean, she’s the bearer of the Element of Generosity! She should be respected as a friend, not a nopony.

I saw Rarity just sighed sadly as Mason looked back at him with a worried expression before noticing something from his eyes. It was another red rose as he quickly took it from the bush and gave it to Rarity.

“Here you go, one lovely rose for you Miss Rarity.” Mason said in a gentleman tone. I chuckled a bit to see him act like that. Well this is the first time I’ve seen act like a gentleman and such.

“Oh?” Rarity saw the rose Mason gave to her, which made her smile while blushing. “Thank you Mason.”

“I’m just doing it...as a friend, that’s all.” Mason said, clearing his throat. He then put it on her mane, making her blush more.

“Well even so, I thank you.” Rarity nodded. “But I know that he didn’t really mean it. He just wasn’t seeing myself yet, that’s all.”

“What does that mean?” Mason asked.

“It means that he just hasn’t noticed my personality or my looks yet, come on, let’s follow him.”  Rarity then grabbed Mason’s hand and took him to where Prince Blueblood went off. Huh, I wonder why Rarity was blushing like that? She’s acting more like Fluttershy with all that.

“Ahh, young love...” Huh? I turned around to see a couple next to me with soft smiles. The female pony had a light gray mane with some white streaks and her coat was light gray while her husband had a light blue hair mane and his coat was light gray as well. He even wore a black tuxedo suit like mine. He even had one of those one eye glass  thing that I’ve seen one of fancy people wear on TV.  I even saw a glimpse of his Cutie-Mark, which had three crowns with black diamonds on them each.

“Oh, I didn’t see you there.” I said, stepping back a little. “Sorry for interrupting you.”

“Nonsense, we were just admiring that strange human getting along with that young damsel.” The stallion said, smiling softly. “Oh, where are my manners young stallion, my name is Fancy Pants, and this is my beloved wife, Fleur De Lis.”

“Good evening.” The white pony known as Fleur introduced herself. “It is nice to meet a new species in Equestria.”

“N-nice to meet you too…” I said, trying to hold my laughter.
“Hm? Is there something the matter my dear boy?” Fancy Pants asked. Oh there is! I-I mean, the name! Fancy Pants?! H-How...and why? Who would name someone like that?!

“I-I swear! I’m okay! B-but anyway…” I cleared my throat, getting back to my old usual grin. “Anyway, I’m Ren Loodan, and yeah, it’s a weird last name, but it’s actually Estonian for Hope.”

“Estonian?” Fleur asked curious.

“It’s a foreign language from where I came from.” I answered.

“Ah, I see.” She nodded as I chuckled nervously before asking “How did you and your wife knew what me and my friends are?”

“Oh, Princess Celestia told his the news about a new species living in Ponyville, where we received these beautiful clothes from Miss Rarity.” Fancy Pants explained. “She tells us that four humans are living in Ponyville in peace and harmony with the ponies, and they’re very friendly.”

“I see…” I rubbed my cheek in embarrassment. Wow, Princess Celestia sure has a nice way of putting things off like that. “Hey wait, Miss Rarity? You know her?”

“Well only by letters, but she had made the most fine garments for me and Fleur, and I gotta say, she has quite a number of skills in fashion.” Fancy Pants commented. Oh you have no idea.

“I take it you’re friends with her, correct?” Fleur asked curiously.

“Well yeah, she’s nice once you get to know her.” I said with a happy grin. “Right now, she’s with my other friend, Mason, and trying to get Prince Blueblood to like her.”

“Oh my, well that might be a challenge.” Fancy Pants rubbed his chin. Well after seeing what he did a moment ago, I know he might be a jerk of a prince. “Prince Blueblood is known for his...demeanor and nature, even though he’s quite a good help around in the Canterlot economy.” 

“Yet, he acts like a spoiled rich brat, right?” I guessed.

“Yep, that’s exactly what I thought as well.” Fleur chuckled, along with her husband. I couldn’t help but join along with them. You know, I was thinking this party was gonna be filled with jerks, but instead, it’s filled with nice guest like Fancy Pants and his lovely wife. But still, with Prince Blueblood around, I have a feeling that Mason might give him a punch in the jaw if he keeps acting like a jerk around Rarity. Wait a minute, punch…

“Oh crap-baskets! I forgot to get punch for me and Fluttershy! I gotta go!” I exclaimed, running off, while I waved goodbye to the two guests. “See ya later Fancy Pants and Fleur De Lis!” 

“Bye bye my friend.” I heard Fancy Pants called as I ran inside of the ball and went in search for the drink. Oh man, I better hurry or else Fluttershy might think I just abandoned her for nothing. As I finally walked back to the Gala, I seemed to walk into where the band are playing their music. That’s where I saw a bummed out Pinkie and Carrie. I walked towards them and called out to them.

“Hey girls, what’s the problem?” I asked.

“Oh hey Rennie, just disappointed that nopony isn’t partying like I imagined.” Pinkie sighed sadly.

“Yeah, and I was trying so hard to make her feel better.” Carrie explained before sighing. “But no matter what, she won’t budge.”

“Oh...I see.” I said, feeling bad for both of them. Poor Pinkie and Carrie, they both wanted to enjoy an excited party, but they can’t since nopony will dance around and enjoy being themselves like in Pinkie’s party. Maybe I can encourage her and try to find a way to make things go her way.

“Hey Pinkie…” I gained her attention. “Maybe you can try at least make this party go your way.”

“Huh?” Pinkie blinked in surprise, lifting her head off the table.

“I mean, you’re Ponyville’s Number #1 party planner right?” I raised a brow with a smirk on my face. “Then you need to stop being sad and try to have fun! You and Carrie together, I know you both can make everyone smile happily and be themselves!”

“...You’re right Rennie! I can’t believe I would just give up like that!” Pinkie exclaimed in shock.

“Yeah, me too! I mean, after going to Pinkie’s last party three days ago, I was so excited and happy at the same time!” Carrie added with a smile as they both hugged me tightly.

“Thanks Ren!” Carrie exclaimed happily.

“Yeah, you’re the best best friend a pony could ever asked for!” Pinkie added as she grabbed Carrie’s hand and immediately ran off with her alongside. Huh, I guess that worked, huh? Well I don’t like seeing my own friends be sad and all, I just thought encouraging them a little, but I think my encouragement went too far, huh? Oh well, I’ll just go and get the punches. I think I saw the buffet table over at the other side of this hall, right? Great, I’m lost. That’s just great...





Man, now how am I supposed to get around this place? This sucks…

While I walk around in search for the buffet table, I saw Kaede and Twilight talking with Princess Celestia, and it seems there was a pretty big line over there. Hmm, well I guess I could see how the princess been doing.

I walked up the steps to the top of the stairs, ignoring the angry looks from the ponies I was cutting off. “Hey Princess Celestia!” I waved at her, gaining her and the others attention.

“Ren, it’s nice to see you again.” Princess Celestia said, smiling softly at me. “You look pretty well, huh?”

“Well...I kinda prefer my old clothes, but I guess it does look nice.” I chuckled a bit.

“Hey Ren, I thought you were with Fluttershy?” Kaede asked curiously.

“Oh yeah, I promised her that I would go and get her some punch, but I’m sorta lost around this place. Do you know where the buffet table is anyway?” I asked sheepishly.

“The buffet table is down the hall to your right.” Princess Celestia pointed out.

“Ah, thanks Celeste.” I grinned, surprising the princess a bit.

“C-Celeste? That’s a new nickname.” Princess Celestia chuckled.

“R-Ren! What did I say to show respect to her?!” Twilight whispered to me through gritted teeth.

“It’s quite alright Twilight, though may I ask why did you call me that though?” Celestia asked curiously.

“Well, I mean, we’re friends. I mean, even if you’re a princess, you’re still a pony like everypony else.” I explained, making Celestia smile softly at me.

“That is quite right, Ren. Thank you and I accept your friendship.” Princess Celestia nodded.

“Wow, I never really thought of that before…” Twilight rubbed her chin in thought. “I guess I have more learning about friendship, huh?”

“Don’t worry Twilight, you’re getting there.” I chuckled a bit.

“Hey! Do you mind?!” Eh? I looked back to see the angry looks on everyone. “We were here first!”

“O-oh, sorry about that! Just hang on a bit please?” I assured to the angry crowd as they sighed impatiently. 

“Hmph! For a new species in Equestria the princess talks about, he acts like a mere child!” One of the guest ponies muttered. Jeez, for a bunch of nobles, they act like children themselves. 

“Oh yeah, I forgot about that line.” Kaede sighed. “Me and Twilight came over to have a normal conversation with Princess Celestia, but things didn’t go as planned.” Kaede chuckled nervously. Well I can kinda see that.

“I see, anyway, it was nice seeing you all.” I said, smiling softly before asking “By the way, where is your sister anyway, Celeste? I thought she would come here in the Gala?”

“Huh? Sister?” Kaede asked curiously before noticing the sad look on Celeste as she turned away and looked out a window towards one of the towers of her castle.

“I-I’m sorry to say, but Luna’s not going to be at the Gala. At least, not this year.” Oh...I see. I became heartbroken that she can’t partake in this event. I thought that maybe we can maybe talk to each other after saving her life from her imprisonment on the moon for like...1,000 years maybe? “She’s still afraid to know how everypony else will react seeing her return.”

“I see, but don’t worry, I’m sure everypony will accept her and get used to her here in Equestria. After all, everypony back in Ponyville accepted us, so I know by experience.” I answered with confidence and determination, earning the smile back from the princess.

“Yes, you are correct. And I can’t thank you, Twilight, and your friends for saving her.” I nodded with a smile, along with Twilight, but a confused expression from Kaede.

“So, um...somebody mind telling me what’s this all about please?” Kaede asked, feeling quite lost since she wasn’t there at our battle against Nightmare Moon.

“Don’t worry Kaede, I’m sure Twilight will explain. Right now, I gotta go and find a punch table, so see ya!” I said, running off until I accidentally trip and fell down the stairs. 

OW OW OW OW OW! Man...that really hurt.

“Ren! Are you okay?!” I heard Twilight called out to me in worried. I slowly got up and saw everypony’s worried and concern expressions, including Twilight and Kaede.

“D-don’t worry, I’m a-okay!” I raised a thumbs up to them, indicating that I was okay. I slowly got up and dust myself. “It’ll take more than a fall to hurt me!” I said, trying to regain my balance. Once I did, I waved goodbye to my friends and headed towards the direction where Celestia pointed out to where the buffet table was.




Finally, I managed to get to the buffet table, and that’s where I saw the delicious punch. Earlier ago, I saw a big crowd gathered around in a circle, and talking to some ponies in uniforms. I’m guessing those were the Wonderbolts, and I gotta say, they got awesome outfits. They nearly look like the Power Rangers and such. I wonder if Rainbow is there because I didn’t see her there, probably because of the huge crowd probably. Phew, well it was about time. As soon as I poured two glasses of punch, that’s when I noticed her.

“Applejack?” I said aloud, gaining her attention. Apparently, she was sitting around in her cart with a bored expression.

“Oh hey Ren, how its going?” Applejack said, letting out a sigh. 

“Just fine, just grabbing some punch for Fluttershy, that’s all.” I replied with a raised brow at her. “How it’s going with you?”

“Nothing, no matter what, nopony will buy my delicious apple treats!” Applejack exclaimed. “I just don’t know why?!”

“Umm...maybe because of the buffet table we’re at?” I shrugged.

“Well even so, I don’t understand why they prefer to eat out of tiny food instead of delicious apple treats!” Applejack slammed her hoof on the table in a huff.

“Well, if it makes you feel better, I can buy some apple tarts?” I offered, taking out some bits.

“Well shoot! Thanks partner!” Applejack nodded as she handed me three apple tarts and I handed her my apple bits. You know, I think Fluttershy and Kodi would enjoy eating these if I do say so myself.

“Out of my way freakshow.” Eh? I was suddenly pushed away by a familiar prince with an annoyed expression on his face. Jeez, what’s up with him now? That’s when I was met up with both Rarity and Mason, who had irritated expressions.

“Oh hey guys, how did it go with...him?” I asked, glancing at Blueblood.

“It was exhausting.” Mason sighed while shaking his head in annoyance. “He has been extremely mistreated Rarity like trash. I just don’t understand princes these days…” Yeah, tell me about it. He’s like...the Prince Hans of this world.

“Now now Mason, I’m sure that he’s just having a bad day...that’s all…” Rarity assured, but I saw her left eye twitching as she walked next to Prince Blueblood next to Applejack’s apple cart.

“So Rarity, what can I get ya?” Applejack asked politely. 

“Two apple fritters, please.” Rarity answered with a soft smile. Applejack nodded and waited for one of them to pay. Rarity cleared her throat, implying Blueblood to pay up, but he just scoffed at her, expecting her to pay for it, causing me and Mason to look at each other in shock and anger. How could he?!

They kept clearing their throats until Rarity gave up and growled. 

“Don’t worry, Rarity. It’s on me.” Applejack assured, but I stopped her.

“Wait Applejack! Don’t pay for that jerk, and that, I mean Blueblood!” I said, glaring at the prince.

“Ren, please-”

“I am sorry Rarity, but I have to agree with Ren here!” Mason angrily glared ath Blueblood as he exclaimed “You should be ashamed for yourself! Treating somepony like trash! What is your problem?!” Mason demanded, causing nearly everypony in the gala to turn to us, and soon, karaoke music began to play, and it sounded kinda familiar. I also started to hear both Carrie and Pinkie singing through the song. Huh, must’ve taken my advice to liven up the party, but right now, I don’t think it’s a good time to do that.

“What? Isn’t it so obvious?” Blueblood raised a brow with an annoyed expression. “Because she’s from that dreached town called Ponyville, and everypony here knows that place is filled with low-class ponies!” 

“That’s a reason?!” I asked in shocked. So this is about titles and who’s better? That seems to be a bit insulting. 

“Exactly, and why do you think I would never show respect to somepony like her anyway?” This caused Rarity to be feel insulted as she lowered her head in sadness, and I saw the angry version Mason was giving him.

“You…bastard!” Mason growled angrily. “All because she’s in the low-class and you’re in the high-class?! Is that frigging it?!”

“Well of course, what you expect?” Blueblood scoffed at this as Mason darkly glared at him. Okay, he’s starting to scare me.

“How dare you?! Just because of that?! She’s more of a middle or higher class than you would ever be!” Mason exclaimed, shocking me, Applejack, Rarity, and even Prince Blueblood.

“W-what?” He muttered, feeling a bit scared of Mason.

“You remind me a lot like someone I know back at my world. An arrogant fool who thinks of his own people like mere toys and doesn’t show remorse to those who died.” Huh? Who is Mason talking about? Just...what’s happening?! “Someone once told me that it doesn’t matter what class you are, what matters is that everyone can be treated equally, and Rarity should be respected, not dismissed like a toy! If you ever rule a kingdom, your whole kingdom would fall due to your arrogance! Guiding people to the right path is the duty of a ruler!” 

Wow, everything that Mason said was straight from his heart. I’m impressed, I normally see him as a kindhearted, serious, responsible older brother type, but after hearing that from him, it sounds like he knows this from experience. Seriously, I really want to know so much about him, and it sounds like he really meant it.

“Mason…” I heard Rarity muttered with widened eyes and was surprised that Mason said all that. 

“W-what?” He muttered with widened eyes.

“Hmph, at least your aunt knows better, unlike you.” Mason said, letting out a sigh after giving that stern talk to the prince.

“S-so what? Do you think I’ll listen to some freak?!” Blueblood exclaimed angrily. “That’s right! I’ve heard about you monkeys from my dear aunt and she told me everything about you clowns! I thought she was exaggerating, but the moment I saw you!” Blueblood pointed towards Mason as he glared at him. “I knew that my aunt wasn’t exaggerating at all, and you’ve been nothing more than being a nuisance since you’ve been with me and that ‘Rarity’! And now you come here and tell me what I should and shouldn’t do?! You got another thing coming!”

“Hey! He was just giving you a piece of advice pal.” I said, glaring at the prince.

“Watch your mouth freak!” He exclaimed through gritted teeth. “Right now, this is between me and this freak show! I don’t care what he says what I am! I am a prince and I should be respected no matter what!” He walked over and put his hoof on Mason’s chest, and soon Mason formed a glare at him, and everypony gasped upon seeing what the prince did. “And I won’t take order from a monkey wretched tool ever again!”

“...Say that to my face...one more time…” Mason glared at him even fiercer as I started sweating like mad at what was happening.

“A monkey...wretched...tool!...” Blueblood smirked at him, causing me, Rarity, and Applejack to feel worried at what Mason was about to do. Fortunately, it happened.

POW!

Mason punched Blueblood right in the muzzle, pushing him into the buffet table and straight into a giant cake, with everypony gasping at what he done before they started laughing. Me, Rarity, and Applejack looked back at Mason as he shook off his hand and said “Never...call me...a tool again…” 

“M-Mason…” Rarity called to him, making him lose his anger and look back at us, and I can tell that he could see the fear in our eyes.

“R-Rarity, Ren, Applejack, I am sorry for my uncouth behavior-”

“No Mason, I want to thank you.” Rarity smiled softly at him and soon, she hugged him. “Thank you for teaching that rapscallion of a stallion a lesson!” She glared at Blueblood as he slowly exited out of the cake, and gasped upon seeing his vest being destroyed and all. “After you helped me cross the puddle by sacrificing your cloak for me, and given me this lovely rose, I thank you Mason!”

“I-it was nothing, just doing this as a friend, that’s a-all…” Mason blushed, trying to regain his cool.

“Well partner, that’s one mighty punch you done to him!” Applejack exclaimed in shock. “With that kind of brute strength, you might be able to beat Big Mac in a hoof-wrestling contest.”

“Yeah dude, that was awesome!” I added with an excited grin. “It was almost something out of a Manga! I’m glad you stood up for Rarity, and showing that prince a lesson.”

Mason looked at us before softly smiling at us and said “T-thank you everyone…” You know, that was sorta the first time I’ve seen so angry and all because Blueblood called him a ‘tool’. I wonder why he got angry over that word?

“Ugh…” Soon, we turned around to see Blueblood trying to regain his balance after that punch Mason gave him. Mason glared and growled angrily as he was about to walk towards him for another punch straight out of the muzzle, but Rarity stopped him.

“Please, allow me.” Rarity assured as she took deep breaths and made a calm expression and started walking towards him. Blueblood shook his head and instantly saw Rarity walked towards him.

“Y-you! W-why are you with...that monster?!” Blueblood demanded.

“The only monster is you Blueblood.” Rarity said with a ‘hmph’ sound. “I expected you to be the prince I dreamed of meeting, where I could at least get to know you during the Gala and maybe we might like each other. Instead, I met the real you, a snarky, arrogant, spoiled little colt who speaks like he’s better than anypony else and shows no respect to mares or anypony who is not royalty or of noble birth!” Prince Blueblood backed away in fear as Rarity started walking towards him with a slightly angry expression. 

“And then you go and make fun of my friends because they’re from Ponyville, and because they’re a new species to Equestria! Well I have had enough of you! And also, if they were any mare out there who can tolerate your immature behavior…” She then moved towards his ear and whispered “I wish her the best of luck.” Rarity then walked away, but not before she bucked him the face, and straight back in the buffet table, covered in food again and knocked out. Everypony, including us, jaw-dropped at what she did.

“Wow...never knew she would had the guts to do that.” I muttered in shock.

“Yeah, me neither.” Mason said, blinking in surprise. Wow, all I wanted was to get some punch for me and Fluttershy, and to witnessed all this. Just wow, but at least Rarity got to shared a piece of her mind at the royal pain in the butt.

“Ren!” Huh? Isn’t that Kodiak’s voice? I turned around to see Kodi running towards us with a panic look on his eyes. “There you are! I’ve been looking for you every...wait, what’s going on here?” Kodi noticed the buffet table destroyed and Blueblood badly injured.

“Oh uh...it’s sorta long story.” I rubbed my head bashfully with a sheepish grin before moving on to serious matters. “So anyway, what’s up boy?”

“I-It’s Fluttershy, s-she’s gone out of control!” Kodi exclaimed. Huh? Out of control? What does he-

CRASH!

What the heck?!

“You’re...going to LOVE ME!” Huh? I looked up to see Fluttershy flying through the dance hall with tons of animals from the garden running away from her. I widened my eyes to see her like this. Fluttershy...what happened to her? I’ve never seen her act like this before! I gotta stop her!

“Fluttershy! Flutters!” I called out for her, eventually gaining her attention. Soon, she widened her eyes to see my shocked expression as she descended down with a shy expression.

“R-Ren…” Fluttershy looked away with a sad look and started to tear up. “I-I’m so sorry that this happened.”

“Whoa, Fluttershy! What in tarnation just happened?!” Applejack asked in shock. 

“Flutters…” I asked in concern. Soon, I started to hear some screams coming from the dance hall, presumably because of the animals rampaging through the place. “Please, I’m here for ya.”

“W-well, I’m sorry but I caused all this! I tried to get the animals to like me, but instead, I caused all this! I’m so sorry!” Fluttershy began crying and fell to her knees.

“...Something tells me that we need to get out of here.” Kodi said, seeing everypony running away in fear from the chaos.

“Yeah…” I nodded with a surprised expression before softly smiling towards Fluttershy. “But don’t blame yourself Flutters, like I said, they were just scared of seeing a different pony, that’s all. I don’t blame you here, it’s not your fault.” I assured, surprising her.

“R-really?” She asked, blinking in shock.

“Of course, you’re the nicest pony I’ve ever met.” I said, helping her up. Soon, she started to blush and smiled at me.

“T-thank you Ren…” Fluttershy soon hugged me, causing me to chuckle. Well, it seems I cheered her up.

“Umm...I wish not to ruin the cherish moment between you and Fluttershy…” Rarity spoke up with a worried expression. “But we need to go...right now!” Oh right! I noticed the gala was falling apart as countless guests ran away in fear, screaming out of their lungs, and suddenly, the exciting music from earlier ago just stopped as animals from the gardens started jumping around and running in fear.


“Yeah...Let’s get out of here!” Kodi exclaimed, which we all nodded in agreement. I grabbed ahold of Fluttershy’s hoof and we immediately ran out of the gala, meeting up with the other girls as well.

“What are you you doing here?!” I asked in shock.

“No time, let’s get out of here before we mess things up even more!” Kaede exclaimed with a worried expression. With no hesitation, we immediately bolted out of the gala and ran out of there like crazy. Oh man, I just hope we don’t end up in trouble or so…




Later
Well this sucks. I mean, what was supposed to turn out to be the best night ever became the worse and crazy night ever. We all were walking through the streets with disappointed, and sad expressions. Soon, we came over to a shop that says “Doughnut Joe’s Shop”. I guess we could hang out here, at least.
As soon as we walked inside the shop, we spotted Spike sitting on a stool by himself. His face was covered with sprinkles as he dunked a donut into a glass of milk. 

He then soon noticed us coming in and said “Hey, how was the Gala? How was your best night ever?”

“Best night ever? Try worse night ever…” Kaede muttered sadly.

“What?” Spike asked confusedly. Soon, we began to explain to him what happened during the Grand Galloping Gala, and once we finished our story, he became surprised that all happened. “Whoa, that sounds like the worse night ever!”

“It was!” We all exclaimed in unison, before laughing after that.

“Ha ha ha...wait, why are we laughing?” Kodi asked.

“Well, even if things didn’t go as planned Kodiak, at least we got to spend the time our lives, right?” I chuckled, scratching his chin before turning to Fluttershy. “Hey Flutters, sorry if I wasn’t around to help you out. I was sorta lost around the gala while I looked for the punch drink, and got caught up with my friends, and...well, it’s kinda complicated.” 

“It’s okay Ren, at least you were there to stop me from going crazy.” Fluttershy chuckled nervously.

“I just hope Princess Celestia isn’t upset with us for ruining the Gala…” Twilight muttered sadly.

“Hey, don’t feel bad Twilight, I’m sure she’ll forgive you.” Kaede assured, and that’s when she came in.

“That was the best Grand Galloping Gala ever!” We turned around to see Princess Celestia walking inside of the donut shop, much to our surprise.

“Princess Celestia?!” We all cried out.

“Wait, what do you mean the best Grand Galloping Gala ever?” Carrie pointed out curiously.

“Yeah, didn’t we just made things for...awful?” I asked, agreeing with Carrie.

“Oh, Ren. The Grand Galloping Gala is always awful.” Celestia replied in a cheerful tone.

“It is?” Twilight asked in shock.

“That is why I was thrilled you were all attending. I was hoping you could liven things up a bit, and while the evening may not have gone as you planned, I’m sure you’ll agree that in the end it didn’t turn out so bad for this group of friends.” Celestia explained, much to our shock. So wait, she was expecting us to crash the party like we just did a while ago?! “And I was more excited to invite Mason, Carrie, Kodi and Kaede because I thought they would liven things even more than ever!”

“R-really?” Mason asked in shock.

“So, you really wanted us to make things exciting?!” Kaede exclaimed as we all looked at each other and began laughing. “Well I gotta say, we really made the gala ‘surprising’, huh?”

“Yeah, with what we all did during the gala.” Kodi agreed.

“Yeah, I think you’re right everypony.” Twilight nodded in agreement. “Friends have a way of making even the worst of times into something pretty great.”

“Yeah! Hanging out with friends!” Rainbow added.

“Talking!” Fluttershy added as well.

“Laughing!” Pinkie held her hooves out in joy.

“You mean doing exactly what I wanted to do the whole time?” Spike smirked at us.

“Yes, Spike. You were right.” Twilight smiled back while she rolled her eyes.

“I’m sorta surprise that you were here and not at the gala, huh?” I asked with a sly smile on my face.

“Well of course, since I knew that the gala was gonna be terrible anyway. Heck, I even explained it to Mason while our way here to Canterlot.” We all looked at Mason, who glanced away and cleared his throat.

“S-sorry about that, I didn’t want your night to be ruined if I told you, that’s all.” Mason apologized.

“Well I’m glad you didn’t.” Rarity replied with a soft smile. “If you hadn’t, I wouldn’t have taught that Blueblood a lesson!”

“You know...I guess our night wasn’t the worst night ever.” I pointed out. “It sounded like it was…”

“The best night ever!” We all shouted and began laughing again.

“Anyway...if I may interrupt.” Princess Celestia spoke up. “May I speak with our human companions, please?”

“Oh...uh...sure?” I raised a brow at her. Wonder what does she needs us for now? Me, Mason, Kaede, and Carrie got up and walked outside with Celestia, but not until Kodi tagged along.

“Wait, I want to come along please!” Kodi pleaded, which made Celestia laugh.

“Sure, I guess why not.” Kodi became extremely happy as she allowed him to come with us and we were outside of the shop.

“So...is there something wrong, Princess Celestia?” Kaede asked in concern. 

“Well for starters, I was wondering if we could talk about something important.” Celestia said with a serious expression on her face. 

“Sure, what is it?” I asked curiously.

“Well...I want to say that I wasn’t able to search the archives for any spells that might lead you back home yet.” Celestia said sadly before continuing “However, I was just curious to ask if you four have any recollection onto why you were on that ship?”

“Huh? What do you mean?” Carrie asked curiously, not following what Celestia was saying.

“Have you four been having strange dreams that might relate to your memories?” We all became surprised to hear that as we all looked at each other.

“Well...yeah, actually.” I nodded before asking “Wait, how did you know that?”

“Well...if you wish to know, you may ask my sister tomorrow.” Tomorrow? Is she going to be visiting us or something?

“Huh? Tomorrow? Why’s that?” Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion.

“I was wondering if you four wished to stay here in Canterlot.” Celestia offered, surprising us even more. She wishes us to stay here in Canterlot? Well we don’t know much about this place, but I sure love to see what’s this place got? I might even bump into those nice couple I bumped into a while ago back at the gala.

“Why’s that?” Mason asked, feeling suspicious of the princess.

“Well, if you wish to know why you four are having these weird dreams, then you must speak with my sister, but I’m afraid since she’s afraid of ever leaving the castle, I’m afraid this is the only solution you could ever get if you wish to hear an explanation about this.” Celestia explained.

“I see…” Kaede thought for a while. “Well, I do want to see more of Equestria, and maybe try to explore this place while forgetting what happened back at the gala tonight.”

“Yeah! Me too!” Kodi jumped for joy.

“Well, I do want to see Luna again. I mean, we never had a normal conversation, and plus, I just want to check up on her, that’s all.” I said with a grin. “So yeah, I stay here as well.”

“I want to stay here too! Right big brother?” Carrie asked her brother, before noticing her brother in thought. “Mason?”

“H-huh? Oh yeah, sure. But if I may ask Princess Celestia…” Mason spoke up. “Is it okay if we pack our things before we come to stay at your castle?”

“Ah yes, I nearly forgotten about that.” Celestia put her hoof on her mouth with a small smile on her face. “I shall allow you to grab your things, and I shall call a chariot to pick you all up.” 

“A chariot?!” Kaede exclaimed in shock. “You have chariots here as well?!”

“Why yes, I used them to send me around Equestria with my royal guards pulling them.” Celestia nodded with a smile on her face. “But anyway, I hope we get to see each other at Canterlot tomorrow.”

“You got it Celeste!” I said with a thumbs up and a smirk, causing Celestia to smile happily and chuckle a bit.

“Now, onto other matters…” Princess Celestia turned to Mason with a sly smile on her face. “Why did you punch my nephew in the muzzle, Mr. Hunter?” 

“O-Oh...um…” Mason didn’t know how to respond to that.

“Wait….he what?!” Carrie, Kodiak, and Kaede exclaimed in unison, shocked to hear that Mason would do something like that.

“I am sorry princess, it’s just that I lost my temper with him after he insulted Rarity and the rest of my friends!” Mason explained with a bow. “I promise it won’t happen again, but if you want, you may punish me!”

“Big brother!” Carrie exclaimed in shock and worried.

“It’s quite alright Mason.” Celestia assured. “I think that shall be a good lesson to him to ever insult your friends like that.”

“R-really?” Mason asked, getting out of his bowing position and looked at the princess with a surprised expression.

“Yes, even if your methods were far too...violent.” I wouldn’t say violent, I say he went too far with that punch. “You did it in order to defend your friends, I say you have a good heart, Mason Hunter.”

“O-oh...thank you, your highness.” Mason bowed at her again, causing her to chuckle and replied “No please, call me Celestia. We are friends now, correct?”

“O-oh yes, we are friends...Celestia.” Mason softly smiled at him. You know, I sorta respected him because he punched Blueblood in the face real hard in order to protect us. I say, he’s a cool guy.

“Now anyway, I shall take my leave, I’ll see you tomorrow. Farewell my friends.” With that, Princess Celestia flapped her wings and flew off as we all waved goodbye to her.

“See ya Celestia!” Carrie waved goodbye to her with a smile on her face.

“Best wishes!” Kodi added. After she was gone, we looked at each other with smiles on our faces.

“Wow, she invited us to stay at her castle! That was sorta unexpected!” Kaede exclaimed with a cheerful smile. “But I’m quite excited to stay at her place tomorrow!”

“Yeah, me too!” Carrie nodded in agreement.

“Though, I’m quite curious...how does she know about the dreams we’ve been having?” Mason wondered.

“Yeah, I’m wondering about that too…” I nodded in agreement. How does she know about this? And why would she want her sister to explain this all to her? Is something we don’t understand or?...

“Hey guys.” Huh? We turned around to see Twilight and the others walking out of the shop with happy expressions.

“Oh hey girls, what’s up?” I asked.

“Ah, while you guys were talking with Princess Celestia, we were just chatting and had ourselves a donut eating contest!” Rainbow said, before letting out a loud burp. “You should know that I won and beat Applejack!”

“Yep, and I promise her that I owe her twelve bits tomorrow.” Applejack grumbled angrily.

“So anyway, what did Princess Celestia wanted to talk to you guys about?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Is something related about bringing you all back home?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Well, I guess…” I rubbed my head bashfully. “But it’s something alright.”

“For realsies?!” Pinkie exclaimed in shock.

“For realsies.” Mason nodded with a serious expression. “And trust us, tomorrow is gonna be something.”

“How so?” Rarity asked curiously.

“Well...it’s sorta a long story. Let’s head back to the donut shop and chat up before we head back home.” I said, which everypony nodded in agreement and headed back inside. Before I headed back, I stopped and looked at the stars, seeing how beautiful both the moon and the stars were looking today. I smiled softly and gaze upon them. Someday, I know that me and the rest of my friends are gonna find a way back to our world. But still, should I leave or...should I stay? I mean, I made a lot of friends back at Ponyville, and...I just don’t know anymore right now.

“Hey Ren, you coming?” I heard Kodiak call for me, catching me off guard.

“O-oh right! Sorry! I’m coming!” I called back as I headed inside and began chatting up with my friends. Oh well, I guess I’ll just figure out that decision for another time. For now, me and the others should just spend our time together until the time is right...for now.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 27 - A Day With The Princesses
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“And are you sure you guys got everything you need?”

“Relax Twilight, I got everything for our stay at Canterlot.” Man, sometimes she’s too worried whenever we’re preparing ourselves for something. Anyway, we were in front of the Ponyville Train station as we waited for our train that leads to Canterlot. Ever since the Grand Galloping Gala, Princess Celestia asked us to come to Canterlot so that we might have some answers about the strange dreams we’ve been having. I was carrying my one strap backpack, and the symbol on my backpack was a PokeBall logo. Yeah, that’s right, I got this Pokemon themed backpack for my tenth birthday. Best gift I ever gotten from my brother.

Kaede was carrying a pink cat-like backpack while she held onto her stuffed cat toy, Coco as she was seen talking with Rarity and Rainbow Dash. Mason carried a white duffel bag around his back while Carrie had her small pink bookbag with rainbows on the back of it. We were also in our old attire, which was a relief for me because I was afraid we were gonna stay at her castle in those fancy clothes. Thank god we’re totally not doing that.

Anyway, Kodiak was also tagging along as he was sitting on my shoulder while our friends wished us goodbye.

“I hope you all have a safe trip, everyone. You too, Ren.” Fluttershy said, smiling sweetly at me.

“Thanks Fluttershy, we promise that we will have the best time at Canterlot.” I rubbed my head bashfully with a grin on my face.

“You know, I still can’t believe that you were invited to stay at Canterlot!” Rarity puffed her cheeks in anger. “Even staying at Princess Celestia’s Castle!”

“We’re sorry?” Kaede replied, sweat-dropping a little. 

“Well either way, must be awesome to stay at the princess’s castle, am I right?” Rainbow smirked.

“Yeah! It’s going to be awesome!” Kodi nodded in agreement.

“Look, just remember…” Twilight gave us a worried and stern look. “Whatever you do, don’t look bad in front of Princess Celestia! If you guys do something bad, I can imagine what she can do!”

“R-really? Like what?” Carrie asked worriedly.

I rolled my eyes with a smirk on my face and said “Oh come on Twilight! If you remember with what happened with Philomena, the Princess was chilled since she knew that Philomena was a  phoenix, so there’s no need to worried.” 

“But then again, we mustn’t do anything too stupid that can embarrassed the princess.” Mason said before slowly glancing at me. “I’m looking at you…”

“What?” I asked in confusion. Oh please, does he think I might embarrass Celestia? Oh please, like I would ever do that.

“Well either way, please don’t embarrassed yourselves in front of the princess.” Twilight pleaded. “I mean, if one of you does something horribly wrong, it might affect me as well!”

“Relax Twilight, I mean this is Princess Celestia we’re talking about, right?” Kaede said, surprised by Twilight’s panicking. “What could she possibly do to you if we do something terrible that we might regret doing?”

“Yes, Kaede does have a point, darling.” Rarity nodded in agreement. “I mean, what could she possibly do to you?”

“I can imagine one thing…” Twilight gulped. “Magic Kindergarten.” We just stared at her for five seconds before letting laughter escaped from our mouths. Magic Kindergarten?! She’s kidding right?

“HA HA HA! That’s a good one Twi!” I exclaimed, trying to contain my laughter.

“Yeah! I mean, that’s the worst thing she could ever do to you?!” Kodi agreed.

“Yeah! Good one Twilight!” Rainbow slapped her leg with her hoof while she laughed. Twilight, however, didn’t take the joke well.

“This is not funny everypony!” Twilight exclaimed as we all stopped laughing and tried to catch our breath. Oh boy, that was hilarious. “She could possible do that, meaning that I have no choice but to move back to Canterlot, kicked out of her school, and never see any of you ever again!”

“Okay, that’s...really is a problem.” Mason thought aloud. “But still, please relax Twilight. I’ve been studying her personality, and it seems that she learned to endure almost anything that upsets her and such.”

“Wait, you’ve been studying her?” Kaede asked. “But we only met at both the breakfast gathering here in Ponyville and at the Grand Galloping Gala. How could you possibly know so much about her personality?”

“Call it a lucky guess.” Mason softly smiled before crossing his arms.

“Wow, he has a good eyesight.” Kodi whispered to me, which I nodded in agreement. Just wow, this guy has such a keen intellect.

“That’s my big brother!” Carrie chuckled while Mason smiled at her.

“Well either way, we sure will miss you partners.” Applejack smiled at us. “You four have a good time at Canterlot.”

“And also!” Pinkie appeared right in front of me, which surprised me a little. “If you ever to Doughnut Joe’s Donut Shop, promise me that you’ll buy a lot of donuts for me and my friends, but mostly me because those things taste so good!”

I chuckled and rolled my eyes at my pink pony friend. “Okay Pinkie, I promise.”

“Pinkie Promise?”

I nodded and began doing the Pinkie Promise. “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my fly!”

Everyone, except Kaede and Mason, laughed at that while the latter sweat-dropped at me.

“Yeah, I don’t think that’s how a Pinkie Promise works likes that…” Kaede said, sweat-dropping and smiling nervously.

Kodi looked at her confusedly and said “What are you talking about? That’s how Ren showed it me back then.”

“And besides, it’s Pinkie way on how to do a Pinkie Promise.” Rainbow shrugged. 

“I...see.” Mason slowly nodded while raising a brow at the pink pony. I guess he still hasn’t gotten used to Pinkie’s randomness. Well, I guess I can understand since she’s quite random herself.

“Hey guys, look! The train’s coming!” Soon, we turned around to see the train coming towards us. As soon as it stopped and opened the doors, we turned back to our friends and smiled softly at them. 

“I guess this is a goodbye for now.” I smiled at my pony friends. 

“Well, I hope your visit will be extraordinaire, darlings.” Rarity chuckled.

“And please be careful on the way.” Fluttershy said before gasping. “Oh right, I almost forgot.” She took something out of her mane and handed it to me. It was a bracelet made out of flowers, much to my amazement. “I-I...Umm...made it myself a while before the Grand Galloping Gala. I was planning on giving it to you last night, but then…”

Oh right, the whole gala disaster. Well, I wouldn’t call it a disaster since Celestia enjoyed it as she stated that the gala was boring every year, which is why she invited us all so that we might make it more ‘excited’ or so to speak…

“Wow...it looks amazing.” I said, looking at it. “I gotta say Flutters, you really know how to make a good bracelet.” 

Fluttershy blushed lightly at my comment as she said “O-oh thank you so much, Ren. I hope you like it.”

“Like it? I love it!” I exclaimed with a big grin on my face.

“No fair! I want a bracelet!” Carrie pouted.

“Don’t worry sis, I promise I’ll make you a bracelet.” Mason assured, much to Carrie’s joy as she smiled happily at her brother.

“And I hope you guys will do alright and tell Princess Celestia that I’m doing alright.” Twilight said, softly smiling at me.

“We will!” I nodded as I gave my friends one last hug before we left. 

“Come on Ren! Let’s go!” Kaede called for me as she, Mason, Carrie, and Kodiak already were inside of the train. 

“I’m coming!” I shouted back as I was about to head in until I was hugged again by none other than Fluttershy.

“Last hug!” I smiled softly and hugged her back. Man, she’s really gonna miss, huh? It’s only gonna be like...what? A week or something? Either way, it would be the first time we’re going somewhere without Twilight and the others. As soon as we finished with our hug, I boarded the train before the doors closed and I waved goodbye to my friends as soon as the train started to go.

“Best wishes everypony!” Twilight called.

“You too everypony!” I called back as we left Ponyville and headed our way towards Canterlot. I soon headed into one of the carts and saw where Mason, Carrie, Kodi, and Kaede were sitting.

“Hey guys!” I called.
“Oh hey Ren! There you are.” Kaede said, smiling happily to see me. “Here, you can sit next to me.”

“Thanks Kaede.” I sat next to her as Kodi hopped onto my lap and let out a yawn.

“I’m gonna take a nap. Wake me up when we arrive to Canterlot.” Kodi then fell asleep as I softly scratched behind his ear before taking out my Nintendo Switch handheld device out of my backpack. Yeah, that’s right! I found it in my room closet, and I was so ecstatic at seeing my favorite game console, made by Nintendo nonetheless. 

“I didn’t know you brought your gaming console?” Mason questioned.

“Well of course, it helps me from boredom.” I answered with a smile as I continued to played Sonic Mania. I love this game because it gives you this nostalgia feeling, don’t you agree?

“So...what do you think Princess Celestia want from us?” Carrie asked curiously.

“Well she did say that she wants to tell us about the dreams we’ve been having.” Kaede stated.

“And also so that we might try to figure out why are we experiencing these dreams.” Mason added, covering his mouth with his scarf while he was thinking. “She said that her sister has been exploring our dreams for a while and find these strange dreams, and yet, we don’t remember them that often, or whatever that means.”

“Exploring our dreams? Is that even possible?” Kaede asked. 

“But we’re in a magical world, right? So I think anything’s possible, Kaede!” Carrie exclaimed before we headed through a tunnel. “Though, I’m excited to see the princess again! And I can’t wait to see her sister!”

“Calm down Carrie, we’re excited too.” You...excited? That’s sorta a surprise. “But remember, this might be a very important thing if we’re ever gonna get back home.”

“Right, oaky big brother!” Carrie nodded.

“Well either way, I do want to explore Canterlot. We haven’t done that due to the Grand Galloping Gala.” Kaede said, looking out the window as we were out of the dark tunnel. “I wonder what kind of dresses, costumes, or even magazines they have there!”

“You like reading magazines?” Mason asked in confusion.

“Well of course, how am I gonna know about the latest designs that might inspire me to make costumes?” Kaede teased before making a happy grin on her face. “Besides, I love reading them, it helps pass the time. Though, I have to make sure that my stepmother nor stepsisters knows about my magazine collection that I keep secretly underneath my bed.”

“I...I see.” Mason cleared his throat while Carrie snickered.

“That’s amazing, Kaede! Maybe you can show us your magazine collection with us.” Carrie said, which made Kaede chuckled and smiled at her.

“Thanks Carrie.” Kaede chuckled.

“Well either way, I say I’m glad we’re getting along.” Mason smiled before noticing me playing my nintendo switch. “And I see you’re enjoying your game, Ren.”

“Well, yeah Mason, I love playing video games. I mean, you see me play games sometimes  whenever I get up.” I replied, finishing Stardust Speedway Zone Act 1. I think the music in the background is now stuck in my head, but it’s quite catchy.

“Heh, of course a teenager like you would enjoy that.” I playfully glare at Mason, who gave out a sly grin on his face. “Besides, are you playing some sort of Sonic game? Yeah, real mature…” 

What did he just say?! “Excuse me…” I paused my game, gently put Kodi off my lap and put him next to Kaede as I got up my seat and got close to his face, puffing my cheeks in anger while he became surprised by my reaction. “I am playing Sonic Mania! The series is one of the best franchises I’ve ever played and one of last year’s best selling games before we got into Equestria somehow! Sonic Mania gives players that nostalgic feeling, and a blast to the past of 2D gaming! I don’t care what they say about him due to some of his bad games, I’ll always enjoy his awesomeness!”

“Okay?” Mason sweat-dropped and blinked in surprise.

“How dare you?! Apologize to Sonic!” I exclaimed.

“I-I’m sorry…”

“I can’t hear you!”

“I’m sorry Mr. Blue Hedgehog!” Mason shouted, causing me to make a grin and let me play back on the next level of Stardust Speedway as I said “There...Sonic forgives you.”

“Well...okay?” Mason blinked in surprise as he looked at both Kaede and Carrie, who shrugged while we noticed some of the ponies who were in the same cart as us looked at us in surprise. I sat back down and continued to play my game. 

“Jeez, I never seen you so angry like that before, Ren.” Kaede said in surprise.

“Sorry, I just don’t like people calling one of my favorite video game characters names and all.” I said, sweat-dropping a little and grinning nervously before turning to Mason. “Sorry about all that Mason.”

“It’s okay…” Mason chuckled as he put his bamboo pole next to him. “I just never played or done anything childish before.” 

“Huh? Really?” Kaede asked. 

“Yeah...me and Carrie didn’t have a fun childhood...or so to say.” Mason glanced away from us as he gazed out the window, seeing the city of Canterlot up close.

“Is that true?” I asked in surprise.

“Yeah, it’s true.” Carrie nodded with a sad smile. “But until a miracle appeared that made us move on from our terrible childhood.”

“A miracle? What kind of miracle?” Kaede asked, interested in their story.

“Sorry, but it’s a secret!” Carrie said with a grin on her face, much to our disappointment.

“Well...at least you tried.” I chuckled nervously.

“Either way, I’ll tell you when the time is right.” Mason promised before we heard an announcement saying “Attention all passengers, arriving in Canterlot!”

“Huh, guess we’re here.” I said before finishing a boss fight with Metal Sonic. Huh, bingo bongo. Soon, Kodi got up and let out a yawn and said “Are we there yet?”

“You bet Kodi!” I nodded before putting away my Nintendo Switch in my backpack and allowed Kodi on my shoulders before turning to my friends. “Come on guys, let’s go!”

I then walked out of the train before hearing Mason and Kaede talking.

“Wow, he must be really excited like a little kid.” Kaede said, surprised by my childish and optimistic personality. 

“Tell me about it, he was even angry because of what I said about Sonic games.” Mason rolled his eyes. He soon got up and grabbed his bamboo sword before Carrie said “Yeah, but I never played a Sonic game before.”

“Yeah, I’m surprised that Ren likes all his games.” Kaede agreed. “You don’t think he plays that one Sonic game. You know...Sonic 06?”

“Maybe.” Mason shrugged, causing me to growl and yell “I HEARD THAT!”

“And I should’ve known he was nearby….”

“Me too Kaede, me too...” 





We soon exited out of the train and looked in amazement at the buildings here in Canterlot. Wow, we didn’t get the chance to see more of Canterlot do to the Grand Galloping Gala, but seeing them here is quite a sight.

“Wow…” Both Kodi and Carrie muttered in amazement.

“Oh my goodness…” Kaede widened her eyes, seeing the city before our eyes. “This place is so beautiful! No wonder why Princess Celestia lives in a city like this! It’s beautiful…”

“Yeah…” Mason nodded in agreement.

“Ah, I take it you four are the humans the princess spoke of, correct?” Huh? Who said that? We turned around to see a white pony with cerulean eyes, his mane and tail color were sapphire blue with some dark blue streaks on it, and his hooves were the same color as his mane, and his cutie mark looked almost like a shield or something, but the coolest part was that he was the same armor as the royal guard.

“Yes sir, we are.” Mason bowed to him with a calm and serious expression. “I am Mason Hunter, and this my little sister, Carrie.” Carrie looked at Shining Armor with amazement before blushing a bit and shyly smiled.

“H-hi there…” Carrie waved at her.

“And these are my two friends, Ren Loodan and Kaede Ross.”

“Hey, how it’s going?” I smiled at him.

“Oh, nice to meet you.” Kaede nodded to him.

“And I’m Kodiak, but Kodi for short!” Kodi greeted him, surprising the royal guard himself.

“Wow...when the princess spoke about a talking dog, she wasn’t kidding.” He shook his head before smiling himself. “Anyway, it is an honor to meet you all. I am Shining Armor, captain of the royal guard.” Shining Armor? PFFT! Ha ha ha ha! That’s so hilarious, more funnier than the name ‘Fancy Pants’! “Is there something with your friend?”
“N-nothing at all…” Kaede assured while trying to hold in a chuckle. See, she even gets it?

“Anyway…” Mason spoke up, trying to change the subject. “A captain, eh? It makes sense since a team like the princesses very own royal guards do need a leader.” Mason stated, which made Shining Armor smiled.

“That’s right, you know your stuff.” Shining Armor praised. 

“Thank you.” Mason bowed.

“You don’t have to bowed, you know.” Shining said, softly smiling. “I’m just your everyday royal guard, here to protect and make sure there is peace here in Equestria.”

“That’s so awesome!” Carrie chuckled while smiling. “You must be really strong if you’re able to become the Captain of the Royal Guard!”

“Ha ha ha, thanks.” Shining chuckled while he ruffled Carrie’s head with his hoof. “So anyway, the princess ordered me to go and pick you four up at the train station. It didn’t seemed too hard since you four are...you know.”

“Yeah, we know.” Kodi nodded while he wagged his tail. “I’m a talking Siberian Husky while Ren and the others are humans, right?”

“Exactly…” Shining nodded his head, raising a brow at Kodi. Well it makes sense since he hasn’t seen a talking dog at all. “Anyway, I shall be your royal escort towards the princess’s castle.”

“Wow, thank you!” Kaede smiled happily, overjoyed to hear that. “That’s really nice of you for taking us here.”

“Well, it was more like the princess telling me to wait for you.” Shining blushed a little from Kaede’s comment.

“Well true, but Kaede’s right.” I said, making a tooth-eating grin. “Even if you were told by Celeste to do it, you still came for us. That’s quite awesome and bold dude.”

“U-umm...thanks.” Shining nodded before frowning a bit. “And did you call the princess, ‘Celeste’?”

“Yeah, it’s a cool nickname, huh?” I asked happily.

“But you must know that it’s very disrespectful to refer to her, like that, you know?” He asked as we began walking out of the train station as he gave me a stern look. “I can imagine the other guards hearing you say that in front of her like that.”

“Oh...sorry about that. It’s just that me and Celestia are good friends since I first came to this world.” I explained, sheepishly smiling. 

“Yeah, and she and Ren known each other for a while and she doesn’t mind his energetic attitude.” Kodi added. “It what makes Ren an awesome friend and owner!” I smiled at my little dog friend as he complimented about my personality. That’s really nice, thanks Kodi.

“I see. Sorry about what I said.” Shining said with a sad smile. I rubbed my head bashfully as I said “Nah, it’s okay. I promise I won’t say it in front of the princess.”

“Thanks, I appreciate that.” Shining nodded with a smile on his face.

While walking, I noticed some ponies whispering to each other and looking at us with wondered and confusion. This might take a while for everypony to get used to us like the ponies back in Ponyville.

“So...what do you think the princess might wanna say to you guys?” Kodi asked in worried.

“I don’t know.” Mason rubbed his chin in thought. “But if this involve about those dreams and a way back home, this has to be very important.”

“Well, when you put it like that, we have to talk to her.” Kaede nodded with a determined look. “I mean, we won’t be able to get these answers if we keep standing around like this.”

“You’re right Kaede.” I nodded in agreement. “Come on everypony, let’s go.” I exclaimed as we walked towards the castle.

“Excuse me, Mr. Shining Armor?” Carrie called for him. “What’s it like to be a captain?”

“Well, it was a difficult challenge, but I was able to move up the ranks and became a captain.” Shining smiled. “You must know, it was my dream to become a member of the Royal Guard so that I could help others.”

“Really?” Carrie asked in wondered. “That’s really a big dream.”

“Tell me about it.” Shining nodded. “I know it’s a Royal Guard’s duty to protect others, including the princess, but it’s my dream as well as I want to protect others and maintain peace here in Equestria. After all, my mom, dad, and Twily were the ones who helped me achieve thanks to their encouragement.”

“Huh? Twily?” I asked. That name...it feels so familiar to me.

“Yeah, Twily is my sister’s nickname. I’m sure you know her as Twilight, you know.” We stopped and looked at him before making shocked expressions.

“WHAAAAT?!” We all exclaimed in shock.

“S-so wait...you’re Twilight’s...brother?!” I asked.

“Yes, you didn’t know that?” Shining asked, raising a brow at us. 

“No.” Me, Kaede, Carrie, and Kodi shook our heads as Mason said “Actually, now that you mention...I can see the resemblance between you and your sister.”

“Seriously?” Kaede asked with a deadpan expression.

“So wait, Twily never told you about me?” Shining asked, frowning a bit. I rubbed my head bashfully with a nervous grin and said “No, it’s just that there’s been a lot of stuff happening around Ponyville that she might’ve forgotten to tell you that.”

“Well...I guess that is understandable.” Shining said before grinning “But you gotta admit, I’m proud to hear that Twily finally made some friends instead of staying all coop up in a room full of books.”

“Well, she’s still does that, but likes to hang around with us.” I answered with a smile on my face. 

“Hey wait, what do you mean that she finally made some friends?” Carrie asked curiously. “I thought that she had a few friends here in Canterlot.”

“Well no...my sis dreamed to become a perfect protege of Princess Celestia that she spend all her time cooped up in her room reading books. She read through my parents’ library like five times.” I see, so that explains about her attitude back during the Nightmare Moon Incident. Wait, she read her parents’ library like five times? That’s impressive, but not impressive that I beaten Super Mario Galaxy 2 thirteen times or so.

“Wow, I never heard of someone reading books from a library like five times.” Kaede said, surprised by that achievement Twilight made. “It’s no wonder how she’s so smart. Probably more than Ren.”

“Hey!” I exclaimed.

“Yeah, that’s quite an achievement! I don’t even know how to read!” Kodi exclaimed.

“Well, you are a talking dog…” Mason muttered before softly smiling at Shining Armor. “But I must say, you must miss your sister, do you?”

“Well yeah, but I’m more happy to hear that she’s finally making friends and learning about friendship.” Shining smiled. “That’s a way outta my book.”

“I see...well even so, an older brother like you must keep supporting your siblings no matter how and care for them, and I’m saying this out of experience.” Mason chuckled.

“Tell me about it.” Shining agreed. “So anyway, let’s head over to the castle. I’m sure the princess is eager to meet up with you all.”

“Yeah, wonder what’s she doing at the moment though…” I thought as we proceeded to head over to the castle. 

“Maybe she’s sleeping?” Kodi suggested, which we look at him weirdly. “What? That’s what I would do if I was tired.” You...make a good point, but I don’t think that’s what she’s doing.





Soon, we stood in the front entrance of the castle as we gasped and looked at it in amazement.

“Wow...that’s a big castle.” Carrie said, blinking in surprise.

“Oh trust me, it’s more beautiful in the inside.” Shining stated as we headed inside of the castle as the two Pegasi royal guards bowed to their captain and allowed us in.

We entered the castle as Shining led us to the throne room, and we even encountered more royal guards, who bow to us, well I think mostly to Shining Armor. Still, that name is still hilarious. But I guess I can understand, since some people laughed at my last name. Anyway, we walked through the halls, seeing the beautiful flowers hang on the walls and some pictures on the walls.

“Wow, look at them! They’re amazing!” Kodi complimented as he wagged his tail.

“Those are murals.” Mason answered as I noticed a small smile through his scarf. “They’re paintings put on walls to show people the past life and such.”

“Oh, I get it!” Kodi nodded with a smile on his face.

“You know, you’re really an expert on knowing these things. How’s that exactly, Mason?” Shining asked.

“W-well…” Mason glanced away as he tried to answer to us until we heard a loud booming voice.

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU WON’T ARREST THAT PERPETRATOR!” Whoa, what the heck was that?! We looked towards the big door in front of us and the two royal guards, who flinch in surprise at the loud noise.

“Whoa! What was that?!” Kaede asked in surprise. 

“It sounded like it came from that door over there.” Carrie pointed towards the giant doors. Shining let out a sigh and said “And I have a feeling I know that voice anyway.”

“Yeah, same here.” Mason nodded with a stern look on his face. We all headed straight for the giant doors as the royal guards bowed, putting back on their calm expressions as they slowly opened the doors for us, revealing Princess Celestia, and a pony with a blonde mane wearing a vest and some bandages on his cheeks. Wait, isn’t that Prince Blueblood? Well wasn’t expecting this.

“Auntie Celestia I request that you find the perpetrator that...that...did this to my face!” He showed her the bandage around his muzzle where Mason once punched him. Don’t you think he’s being too much of a drama queen?

“Now dear nephew, I understand that you’re upset-”

“Upset?! I’m not upset Auntie Celestia! I’m infuriated with this new species!” Blueblood exclaimed angrily. “I want you to send your royal guards straight to Ponyville and bring that freakish monkey so that he may confront justice!”

“Why that…” Mason growled until Carrie shouted “Hey!” She ran straight towards him with a ster and angry expression.

“Don’t call my brother a freak, you meanie!” Carrie puffed her cheeks as Blueblood turned around, surprised to see her.

“GAH! No another one of you humans!” Blueblood exclaimed before noticing me, Kaede, Mason, and Shining, which led him to gasp in shock.

“YOU!” He pointed straight towards Mason.

“Oh, hey…” Mason glanced away, not wanting to argue or put up with him.

“Don’t you turn your head away from me like I’m a nobody! Show me some respect!” Blueblood demanded.

“Umm...do you two know each other or something?” Kaede asked.

“Know him?! Of course I do, this imbecile of a freak show is the one who dare did this to me!” Blueblood showed us the bandage around his muzzle.

“But...it’s just a bruise, right?” Kodi questioned, which surprised Blueblood a little but he sneered at him and exclaimed “A bruise? A bruise?! This bruise ruined my beautiful face and now I’m ruined!”

He soon started crying, which made us feel awkward. “Wow...and I thought Rarity was a drama queen.” I said bluntly, blinking in surprise.

“Wait? I’m confused, what does Mason have to do with this?” Shining questioned.

Blueblood wiped away his tears and made an angry expression. “This fiend! He assaulted me last night and ruined my face, including that Ponyville civilian!” Oh great, now he’s making Rarity and possibly, my friends in this, that isn’t good. 

“Oh, so you’re that stuck-up pony jerk that my brother punched, right?” Carrie asked bluntly, which surprised us all, even the one who was Carrie referring to, and I could’ve sworn that I saw the guards snickering at that name.

“S-snuck up?! Why you little! GRRRR!” Blueblood growled at her as she stuck her tongue on him, which upset him more.

“Ah, Ren, Kodi, Kaede, Mason, and Carrie, it’s nice to see you finally arrived to Canterlot.” Princess Celestia came over with a soft smile on her face, walking past her angry nephew. 

“Hey Cele..I-I mean, Princess Celestia, how it’s going?” I rubbed my head bashfully, almost about to say her nickname in front of everyone.

“I’m doing quite alright Ren.” She smiled at me before saying “Excuse my nephew, I am terribly sorry for his rude behavior.” 

“It’s alright, we’re just surprised to see him here.” I said honestly. Blueblood intervened into our conversation as he exclaimed “Auntie Celestia, why are you talking with this...freak?! He’s also a mere accomplice to that freak over here!” He pointed towards Mason, who glared at him.

“I see you still haven’t learned your lesson, huh?” Mason asked, crossing his arms.

“I don’t take orders from a freakish species like you!” Blueblood exclaimed angrily. “Not after you punched me in the muzzle!”

“That’s only because you kept pissing him off!” I retorted back, defending Mason. “And you kept calling him and Rarity names!”

“So what? What I spoke was the truth, after all, they are mere low-class ponies!” Seriously? This conversation again?

“But does it really matter because of something like titles?” Kodi questioned, which made Blueblood glare at him.

“Listen you mutt, I don’t need into this conversation! This is between me and these freaks!”

“Hey! Leave my friends out of this!” Kodi growled, ready to bite his face off.

“Kodi, calm down.” I said, picking him up s he continued his growling towards Blueblood.

“Nephew, please calm down and-”

“No Auntie Celestia! I will not calm down in front of the ones who make a mockery towards me!” Blueblood exclaimed, rudely interrupting Princess Celestia. 

“Wow, for a prince, he sure likes to be rude.” Kaede shook her head. Well, I’ve seen some disney films and some princes like Prince Hans from Frozen are arrogant jerks. 

“You still haven’t learned, huh?” Mason asked angrily. “I told you before that it doesn’t matter if you’re a low-class, a middle-class, or a high-class, what matters is that we’re one of the same and are equal.”

“I don’t take orders from any fool like you!” Blueblood exclaimed angrily.

“Alright, I’m starting to be confused.” Shining spoke up from the entirety of this conversation. “Are you telling me that you assaulted Prince Blueblood last night during the Gala, Mason? Is that true?” He looked at Mason with a stern expression, which caused him to glance away.

“Y-yes, only because he was insulting my friends and kept taunting us. I couldn’t help but felt enraged by such rudeness, and I couldn’t control my anger. I am sorry for my behavior.” Mason apologized with a bow. 

“It’s quite alright Captain Armor.” Princess Celestia intervened. “He didn’t mean no harm. I’m sure it was just an accident.

“Yeah! My big brother is a caring person and he would never hurt anyone unless if someone else hurts an innocent person! He told me that last night, Prince Blueblood was teasing him and Rarity because he called them names and Mason always says that guiding people to the right path is the duty of a ruler and if he continued his arrogant ways, his kingdom would be his downfall!” Carrie exclaimed, surprising us all again. Wow, I gotta say, for a little girl, she knows what her brother says.

“Is that so?” Celestia asked with a soft smile. “Well I must say that your brother knows to say the right words.” Mason blushed a little upon hearing Celestia’s comment.

“I don’t care!” Blueblood said, not interested into hearing Carrie as he turned to Shining Armor and exclaimed “You! Captain Armor! Arrest this freak immediately!” Oh no, please Shining, don’t do this! I’m sure you can understand this, just don’t arrest Mason!

“...I’m sorry, but I’m afraid I won’t.” Well that was easier than I thought. Blueblood widened his eyes from Shining’s response as he exclaimed “What do you mean you won’t?! I’m a prince and you shall do what I say!”

“In case you didn’t hear, I said no.” Shining said in a serious tone. “From what his little sister says, he was provoked by you, nonetheless. You kept insulting him and his friends, so I think all this fault is all yours, Blueblood.” Ooh snap, you just got burned!

“W-why you!” Blueblood was about to say something until Princess Celestia intervened.

“Blueblood, I think it’s time for you to go.” Celestia said in a calm and orderly tone. 

“W-what?! Auntie Celestia, why are you-”

“Please Blueblood, I invited them over for a little conversation, so can you please take your leave?” She asked nicely, but forcefully.

“I would not put up with this mockery, Auntie Celestia! I will not-”

“If you won’t leave, then I will have no choice to take away all your belongings.” Celestia interrupted him with that little threat as she was very serious.  And Blueblood widened his eyes and jaw-dropped at that.

“Well, that was unexpected.” Kaede said in surprise.

“Tell me about it…” Shining nodded in agreement.

“Fine…” Blueblood growled as he walked away and glared at us before taking his leave. 

“Hm! That big meanie!” Carrie exclaimed, puffing her cheeks in anger.

“Yeah, how can he be such a jerk?!” Kaede asked, fuming in anger. “I mean, I know he’s a prince, but he acts like he’s so superior than us all!”

“And he’s your nephew?” Kodi questioned Celestia. “Well he sure doesn’t act nice like you!”

“I know my nephew is quite a jerk, but you get used to it.” Celestia sighed before softly smiling towards Shining Armor. “And I must say Captain Armor, that was very nice of you to defend Mason like that.”

“Y-yes Princess Celestia. Just doing my job…” Shining nodded, blushing a bit.

“But anyway, I welcome you four to my castle.” Celestia said, smiling softly at us as we smiled back at her.

“Yeah, your castle is quite beautiful.” Kaede said happily.

“Why thank you Kaede.” Celestia bowed.

“So...you told us that there’s something you wished to tell us about our dreams, what is it?” Mason asked, getting straight to the point.

“Yes, we shall explain everything towards you.” Princess Celestia nodded. We? Does she mean?

“We?” Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion. 

“Shining Armor could you please leave us for a moment, along with the other guards?” Princess Celestia asked politely. Shining nodded and replied “Yes your majesty.” With that, he and the other royal guards took their leave until Shining turned back to us.

“Well, guess this is where we’ll depart. Bye.” He said, waving goodbye to us before the doors closed.

“Bye bye.” Carrie and Kodi said in unison, waving goodbye to him. Soon after, we turned back to the princess with confusion on our looks.

“Umm...why would let your guards out of the throne room?” Kaede questioned.

“You see, my sister is quite shy around everypony, and isn’t ready to show herself to the others yet.” Celestia explained.

“Ah yes, you mention last night that you had a sister, correct?” Mason asked, which Celestia nodded.
“Yes, I shall call for her right now.” Celestia turned back to her throne and said “Luna, you can come on out now.”

Soon, a pony slowly walked out from behind Celestia’s throne. She had a dark sapphire blue mane and tail color and a dark blue coat with a crescent moon shape cutie mark with a dark background on her flanks. Huh? Wait, that cutie-mark...I’ve seen that one before. Could it be?

“Luna?” I asked in surprised as she slowly walked towards us with a nervous grin.

“W-why hello there, long time no see as they say...Sir Ren Loodan.” I widened my eyes, realizing who that really is.

“Luna, you’re here!” I exclaimed, making a happy grin. “And yeah, it’s been a long while huh? I haven’t seen you since I first came to this world. How it’s going?”

“W-we have been alright. Thank thee for asking, Sir Ren Loodan.” Luna smiled with a nod. Huh? What was up with that kind of accent? We? Thee? 

“So this is Princess Luna?” Kaede asked, which I nodded and replied “Yeah, it’s a long story.”

“And we can chat while we drink some tea.” Celestia smiled as she led us to where we can chat. I glanced at Luna and smiled softly. I’m happy to finally see her again, I was sorta worried on how she was doing now that she’s back with her sister. But you know, she looks quite good and different from the last time we met.

“Can anybody tell me what’s going on?” Kodi asked. “I’m already confused about all this.”

“Don’t worry guys, I’ll explain everything along the way.” I assured as I cleared my throat and began to tell them the story that Celestia told me back then.




Later
“And that’s the sum of it.” I said, finally done explaining everything to them. We were in the private quarters of Celestia as Celestia poured us some tea while I finished my story to them. Of course, Luna was uncomfortable upon being mentioned that she transformed into Nightmare Moon. 

“Wow...that’s crazy!” Kaede exclaimed in shock. “So Princess Luna was actually Princess Celestia’s sister and she was banished because she was transformed into an evil being called Nightmare Moon, but you and the others were able to transform her back to normal, huh?”

“Yep, that’s about right.” I nodded with a grin on my face.

“Wow, that’s awesome and insane Ren!” Kodi exclaimed. “I can’t believe you and the others fought off an evil monster...umm, no offense?”

“None taken, dear Kodiak.” Princess Luna assured with a sad grin on her face. 

“I am sorry to hear what has happened to you, Princess Luna.” Mason said, taking a sip of his tea. “But I’m glad to hear that your sister has forgiven you for your actions and are happily reunited with each other.”

“Thank you, Sir Mason Hunter. We are glad that me and my beloved sister are back together as well.” Princess Luna nodded with a soft grin on her face.

“Yes, though my sister couldn’t explore much more outside of the castle because she’s still afraid of what ponies might say to her.” Celestia stated before taking a sip of her tea.

“I see, so I guess when the time is right, you’ll come out of your shell, right?” Kaede asked, which Luna nodded.

“That is quite madam Kaede.” Luna replied. “Though, my sister told us a lot about you four a lot, and we are happy to finally meet at last.”

Carrie snickered as she said “You talk funny, why is that?”

“Carrie!” Mason looked at her sternly.

“But this is thou how we speak, of course many ponies in this era don’t talk like this anymore, but even so, this is Canterlot tradition.” Luna explained.

“Oh I see, no wonder you sounded like Shakespeare.” I chuckled before smiling. “Though, I’m happy to finally see ya again Luna.”

“So are we, Sir Ren Loodan.” She nodded with a smile.

“Hey, you don’t have to all me that. We’re friends after all, just call me Ren.” I made a tooth-eating grin, which confused and surprised Luna.

“O-oh, w-we see. Very well, we shall call you ‘Ren’, then.” Well, at least it’s a working progress, I guess. "Hm? That is that in your left...um...what do you call it?"

"Oh, well first, this is called an arm." I answered before showing the bracelet Fluttershy made for me. "And this is just a gift that Fluttershy made for me."

"Ah, so Fluttershy made that for you, huh?" Celestia asked with a smirk on her face.

"Yeah, it was quite nice of her to do that." I said, letting out a grin. That just shows that we're quite close and good friends.

“Anyway, we were brought here because you two wanted to tell us about our dreams, correct?” Mason reminded them.

“Oh yeah, you did say something like that, right?” Kodi asked. “So what’s this about Ren and the others having weird dreams again?”

“Ah yes…” Celestia cleared her throat as she said “Now then, you four are confused on why you were inside of that ship and don’t remember how you got here, correct?”

“Yeah…” I nodded, raising a brow. Where is this going exactly?

“Well, I was curious to know those questions as well, so that’s why I ask my sister to enter the Dreamscape and explore your dreams.”

“Huh? Dreamscape?” Carrie asked confusedly. 

“Explore our dreams?” Mason asked, widened his eyes. “Does that mean…”

“Yes…” Luna nodded. “We’ve been exploring your dreams for quite sometime now. Our sister needed thou’s help in order to help you four get back home and try to solve the mystery behind your arrival.”

“Whoa, so wait, you can go into our dreams?!” I asked in amazement. “Like...literally?!”

“Yes, ‘literally’.” Luna nodded with a raised brow. Holy crap, that’s amazing! That’s gotta be something out of Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance. Man, I wish I had that ability to explore dreams as well.

“No offense Princess Luna, but that kinda sounds creepy.” Kaede said, feeling unsure about that ability.

“Well, as Princess of the Night, it is our duty to protect the citizens of Equestria from terrible nightmares that might affect them and make sure they have good dreams.” Luna replied before letting out a yawn. “Of course, we have to do this in the night while our sister does her job during the morning time.”

“I see, so it likes you two are taking turn from your jobs on either the morning or night time.” Mason said, covering his mouth with his scarf.

“Yes, and while we was travelling through your dreams, we managed to break through your locked memories and saw some things, but however, most of your memories were bolted shut apparently.” Huh? Bolted shut? 

“What do you mean by that?” I asked confusedly.

“We don’t know why, but it seems that some of your memories are somehow bolted tight and my magic isn’t powerful enough to unlock it. But we shall try our best to try and help you unlock those locks to help break open your lost memories. They might be the key on figuring out how you got here and a way back to your world.” I see, so our memories are locked tight. I don’t know if that’s literal or a metaphor.

“So wait, the dreams we’ve been having…” Kaede spoke up. “Those were our memories, correct?”

“That is quite right, Ma...We mean, Kaede. After I managed to unlock some of your memories, it turned into a dream and made you all remember what they were.” Luna answered. 

“Hold on, but what about the vision I had?” I asked, which confused Luna.

“Vision? Whatever do you mean Ren?” Luna asked.

“Well, back then, I used to had this weird vision of seeing myself with a machine on my head.” I replied, surprising Mason, Kaede, and Carrie.

“What? You too?” Mason asked in shock.

“What? But I thought I was the only one who had that?” Kaede added.

“I see…” Luna rubbed her chin in thought. “It would seems that after we helped unlocked your memories through the dreamscape, you all started to recovered some of your lost memories from your own, it’s like amnesia.”

“Amnesia?” Kodi asked.

“It means that someone who forgotten some important things, including their identity.” I answered. “I’ve seen this type of thing in movies, TV shows, and games, but never encountered something like that in real life.”

“So...you’re suggesting we might have amnesia?” Kaede asked.

“But...is that even possible?” Mason asked.

“I don’t know, I’m getting dizzy from all this big talk.” Carrie said, her eyes swirling around like crazy.

“Well either way, we thought we should inform you four about this.” Celestia said before softly smiling. “In the meantime, I thought I should allow you four to stay in Canterlot for a while. I mean, you should at least enjoy and explore around Equestria, at least.”

“Yeah, I do love to explore around the place.” I grinned happily. “But anyway, I’m still confused on whether it’s amnesia or not. I mean, the four of us getting amnesia at the same time? That’s just weird.”

“That I agree.” Mason nodded.

“Well anyway, we are glad to finally see you four for the first time.” Luna smiled. “Anyway, we should probably take some rest.”

“Huh? But it’s the day time.” Carrie reminded her.

“True, but we have been working so hard that we need some beauty sleep.” Luna stated.

“Well anyway, why not you five head out and explore Canterlot a little? I hear that Donut Joe’s Doughnut Shop are selling some new donuts there.” Celestia chuckled, which me and Kodi’s stomach growl like crazy.

“Y-yeah, I see why not.” I said as I got up before letting out a gasp. “Oh right, I almost forgot. I got something for you Luna.”

“For us?” She asked as I took off my backpack and took something out. 

“Yep, here ya go!” I said, handing the perfectly wrapped square gift to her. She became curiously as her horn glowed and used her magic to tear off the wrapping, revealing a portrait of the night sky with the moon, the stars, and beautiful grasslands.

“Oh my…” Luna gasped before turning to me. “Y-you made this for...us?”

“Yeah, it’s a little gift from me to you. I mean, I wanted to make this for you because I was wondering how you were doing now that you’re back in Equestria, so yeah, I hope you like it.” I chuckled happily as I saw a tear falling out of Luna’s cheek.

“W-we thank thee, Ren. We shall never forget this lovely gift thou gave to us.” Luna smiled happily as she embraced me in a hug, much to my surprise. I noticed everyone smiling happily as Luna ended our hug and blushed a bit. “Now then, we should probably head back to our quarters. Carry on.” 

“Umm...Princess Luna?” Mason called for her. “May I have a word with you...privately please?” Huh? Privately? Wonder what Mason is up to now?

“Why yes Mason Hunter. You won’t mind sister?” Luna asked her sister as she replied “I see why not. We’ll leave the room if you want.”

“Big brother?” Carrie asked in concern as he bent down and ruffled her hair a bit.

“Don’t worry, it’ll be a quick talk. I promise.” Mason assured.

“Hmm...okay!” Carrie nodded happily as she and the rest of us took our leave and waited outside while both Mason and Luna were busy talking.

“Wonder why Mason would want to talk to Luna?” Kodi wondered aloud.

“Beats me.” I shrugged. Wonder what is going on in there?




Mason’s POV
“So, what is it thou wished to talk about?” Princess Luna asked as I made a serious expression and asked “So...you say that you can enter this Dreamscape and explore other’s dreams, correct?”

“Correct.” She nodded.

“And that you’ve exploring our dreams for sometime, trying to find a reason why we were here in the first place, but for some reason, our memories are bolted shut, possibly amnesia, and that you’ve been trying your best to unlock our memories for us to see through our dreams?”

“Yes.”

“Does that mean...you saw my dreams?” I asked, getting slightly angry. 

“Why yes, why do you ask?” She asked, raising a brow.

“Did...did you see the one dream where…” 

“If you are referring to that one dream, then yes.” She nodded before frowning a bit. “Though, we can understand about that one, but I sense doubts inside of your dreams.”

“W-what?” I asked in confusion.

“You see, we can feel how the pony, or a human, feel when they’re dreaming, and we can sense fear, doubt, and anxiety from your dreams. Though, we can understand why you should be afraid, you’re just like us.”

“Why? Why bother look into my own dreams?” I asked, shaking my head in disappointment. “I’m nothing more than…”

“Because we have something in common...fear. We’re afraid of transforming back into Nightmare Moon and harm others again with my dark powers. You’re afraid that if you tell them, they might not want to be friends with you.” Princess Luna said, feeling bad for me.

“Yeah, we want to tell them but...would they even believe me that I’m the protector of a...nevermind.” I shook my head because I didn’t want to bother to even reveal it to her since she practically knows it already.

“We know what thou are referring, and after seeing them today, we would say that they would believe in you. My sister told me through Twilight Sparkle’s letters’, that you protected both your sister and your friends from harm, meaning that they’ll surely believe in thou.”

“Y-you really think so?” I asked.

“Precisely.” Princess Luna nodded with a soft smile on her face. “Now, we think that your friends are waiting for you.” 

I nodded with a soft smile on my face and said “Yeah, you’re right. Thank you Princess Luna for having this talk, and I hope we meet again.”

“We hope to see you again as well.” Princess Luna nodded as she and I took our leave out of the private quarters, where everyone was waiting for us.

“Oh hey Mason and Princess Luna.” Kaede greeted us with a smile on her face. “So how did it go?”

“I-it went well…” I nodded until Carrie came over and grabbed my hand with an excited grin on her face.

“Glad you’re finish big brother! Me, Kodiak, and the others were about to have lunch, and Princess Celestia is gonna make some for us!” Carrie exclaimed.

“Oh really?” I asked with an amused smile before turning to both Princess Celestia and Luna.

“Well, you are our guests, so why not entertain them?” Princess Celestia teased.

“Yeah, and it sounded like a great idea to me. Though, I never seen Princess Celestia cook anything before.” Ren grinned as he was playing with his Sonic Mania game. 

“I see.” I nodded.

“Well, I am an amazing cook.” I feel like I heard a little boastful in that tone of hers. “Anyway, while I go and make lunch, I’ll go and tell the staff to set up rooms for you all.” Princess Celestia said as she and Princess Luna took their leave. “Take care you all.”

“We’ll be in our room to take thou beauty sleep. Sweet dreams.” Princess Luna said as she took her leave.

“See ya later Princess Celestia and Princess Luna!” Carrie waved goodbye to them. Suddenly, both Kodi and Ren’s stomach to growl, causing them to smile sheepishly.

“Sorry about that, but I am getting hungry.” Ren chuckled nervously.

“Yeah, same here.” Kodi nodded in agreement.

I chuckled a bit and said “Alright, let’s go everyone.” We began to head our way towards the kitchen and go have a delicious lunch special made by the princess of Equestria herself. While we headed our way, I noticed the flower bracelet was wearing and I couldn't help but smile. That was very nice of her to give it to someone like him, which shows that she really does like him. I'm just surprised that he doesn't know about her affections. While thinking, I noticed Ren beating the game, much to his joy.

“Yes…” Ren whispered.

“You really like that game, don’t you?” I asked, which he nodded.

“Well of course, Sonic is one of my favorite games ever.” Ren replied with a smile on his face. “Hey, I know! Why not we all play a game together when we go back home to Ponyville?”

“What?” I asked. “But I barely know how to play a video game.”

“And I don’t play video games that often, unlike you Ren.” Kaede added.

“And I have paws! I don’t know how to play a video game as well!” Kodi exclaimed.

“Yeah, I don’t play video games as well.” Carrie agreed.

“Don’t worry guys, I’ll teach you all how to play!” Ren suggested, surprising us all.

“R-really?” Kaede asked, which Ren nodded and replied “Well of course, I know so. Trust me on this one.”

We all looked at him in shock before smiling and chuckling a bit. “Alright, I see why not.” I answered with a soft smile on my face.

“Awesome! Now come on, let’s hurry before our stomach keeps on growling.” Ren exclaimed as we continued our way towards the dining hall. I couldn’t help but smile at them, mostly at Ren because he really thought of me as a friend, but still...would they even believe in me? I-I’m not so sure at all. Then again, Princess Luna did say that I have save them some times and Ren is quite a good person, despite his naivety and gullible nature, I can’t help but admire it. He’s quite a good friend, and I’m glad to even be friends with him...no, to be friends with Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Spike, Kaede, and Kodiak. I’m glad to even be called...a friend.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 28 - The Return of Disharmony Part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mason's POV

"Wow, these taste so good!" 

"Why thank you Carrie, I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed my sandwiches." 

You know, I kinda enjoy making food for Ren and the others, but who knew Princess Celestia know how to make some delicious food.  We were inside of the Dining Hall, enjoying our lunch with the princess as she cooked a lot of food, and she didn't need any of our help.

"I never knew you were such a good cook!" Kaede said happily while she blushed. "I thought your chefs cooked these kinds of food, but you have some amazing talent, Princess Celestia."

"Thank you Kaede." Princess Celestia replied with a soft smile. "But I should let you all know that I cook these delicious food myself."

"Oh, I see." Kaede replied before taking a bite of an apple pie. 

"Yeah, but you gotta admit! This hay sandwich is quite good, despite it's made from hay." Ren said, finishing up his hay sandwich. I already finished my food, and waited for my friends to finish up so that we may explore more of Canterlot. I took noticed of Kodiak eating out of a bowl of dog kibble. Seems to me that the princess was prepared for this it would seem.

"Yeah, and thanks for giving some of this kibble, princess!" Kodi said with food in his mouth. Princess Celestia chuckled and replied "Why thank you Kodiak. I made that kibble by myself. I learned how to make some ever since I gotten Philomena."

"Oh? Your pet Phoenix, right?" Carrie asked.

"Why yes Carrie, and she quite misses you and Kaede very much." Princess Celestia nodded with a smile. Oh right, who can forget about that naughty bird after it caused so much trouble for us.

"Well, I hope she's doing well." Kaede said, chuckling a bit.

"So anyway..." Ren spoke up. "I've been meaning to ask Princess Celestia, just wondering on how long you and your sister been ruling Equestria?"

"Well..." Princess Celestia looks at him with a soft smile. "Before Luna turned into Nightmare Moon, it's been 1,000 years or last I count."

"1,000 years?!" Ren exclaimed in shock. "Y-you're kidding, right?!"

"Nope." Celestia shook her head before laughing at his shocked look. He wasn't the only one as Carrie, Kodi, Kaede, and I looked at each other in shock as well. How is it possible for a pony like her to live for 1,000 years? Is she immortal or something? If so, then are ponies around here immortal as well? No, I don't think so.

"Wow! If so, then how do you put all the candles into the birthday cake?!" Carrie asked in joy. Princess Celestia gave her a wink and replied "Sorry Carrie, but there are some secrets that you don't wanna know."

"Oh...Okay." Carrie nodded.

"Well either way, thanks for cooking us lunch, Celeste." Ren chuckled. "But I hope you're not doing anything for today. I mean, we can hang out and check out Canterlot together?"

"I wished I could..." Princess Celestia sadly smiled as she continued "But I have a royal duty, and I have to help many nobles and such with their little...problems."

"Really? Like politics or something?" Kaede asked, which the princess nodded.

"That is true since a princess like Celestia and Luna does have a royal responsibility, and with being royal and all meaning that they can't spend enough time with others." I said, finishing my sandwich.

"You know, it sounds like you know this already, Mason." Kodi said, causing me to glance away and tried to ignore their curious expressions.

"Y-yeah, my big brother is...um...smart, that's all." Carrie chuckled nervously, backing me up. I sighed and smiled at my sister for defending me, but I'm sure they'll soon learn the truth.

"Well anyway, I should head back and do my royal duty." Celestia gotten up from her seat and headed over towards the door before turning back to us. "By the way, just to let you all know that Ms. Cheerilee's class will be visiting my gardens for a little school field trip."

"Really?!" Carrie said in excitement. "I haven't seen Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo for a while since the Talent Show, and it would be nice to see them again!"

"Well, let's head to the gardens and see them." Ren suggested, which we nodded in agreement. 

"I see why not." I shrugged.

"Well...I don't know who they are, but I'll be glad to meet them at least." Kaede nodded in agreement.

"Yeah, me too!" Kodi exclaimed, letting out an excited bark.

"Well then, let's go everyone! You too Mason!" Carrie exclaimed as she immediately came over to me and grabbed my hand, and started to pull me towards the door.

"A-alright Carrie, I'm coming! I'm coming..." I sighed.

"We'll see you later Princess Celestia, and we'll let Ms. Cheerilee and the others you said hi." Ren chuckled with a grin on his face.

"Thank you Ren." Princess Celestia nodded as we took our leave and headed towards the gardens. Huh, I am curious to know why Ms. Cheerilee and her class are here in the castle gardens, can it be a coincidence?




Ren's POV
Huh, I am quite excited to see my little Cutie-Mark Crusaders again, and I hope they're going to be happy to see us. After asking some directions from the Royal Guards, we finally arrived to the gardens, where we saw Ms. Cheerilee, along with many other ponies.

"Hey!" I called them over, gaining their attention.

"Oh! Hello there Mr. Loodan, Mr and Mrs. Hunter, and..." Ms. Cheerilee took noticed of Kaede and asked "Umm...I'm sorry, I believe we haven't met before."

"Oh, my name is Kaede Ross, but you can just call me Kaede." Kaede introduced herself.

"I see, well it's an honor to meet another human, Ms. Ross." Ms. Cheerilee nodded. "You know, I heard some rumors about another human here in Equestria, but I wasn't able to confirm it and just dismissed it."

"Well, it isn't a rumor anymore, I guess..." Mason shrugged.

"Ren! Mason! Carrie!" The Cutie-Mark Crusaders came towards us and gave us a hug by either on our foot, or in Carrie's case, hugged her from her chest.

"Hey girls, how its going?" Carrie asked with a happy grin on her face.

"Nothing much, just in this boring field trip to learn about friendship." Scootaloo said before noticing Ms. Cheerilee's glare, causing her to smile sheepishly and said "I-I mean this awesome trip to learn about friendship...yeah..."

Good call there Scootaloo. Good call.

"So what are you all doing here in Canterlot?" Apple Bloom asked.

"We were invited by Princess Celestia to stay here for a while, that's all." I shrugged, causing the students to be shocked to hear that. 

"No way! You were invited by Princess Celestia herself?!" Sweetie Belle asked with excitement, which I nodded.

"Yeah, and she's quite a nice pony once you get to know her." Kodi asnwered, sitting next to me. Soon, the students became overjoyed upon noticing Kodi, and because that he can talk. "What?" 

"Oh my! Is that a talking dog?!" One of the students exclaimed as they immediately rushed towards him and began admiring him, much to Kodi's discomfort. Seems that the students never met Kodiak except the crusaders, Twist, Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon.

"Should we help him?" Carrie asked.

"Nah, I think he'll be fine." I assured with a chuckle.

"Seems to me that Kodi is getting the attention today." Kaede smiled as Kodi immediately gotten out of the crowd of fillies and hid behind my legs. 

"What's wrong with them?! I mean, sure I'm a talking dog but this is ridiculous!" Kodi exclaimed, causing me to laugh as I picked him up and put him on my shoulder before turning to the class. 

"Sorry everypony, but I'm afraid Kodi had enough of admiration today." I said, causing the class to be disappointed, much to Kodi's relief.

"So anyway, you all are in a school field trip around Canterlot?" Mason asked curiously.

"Why yes Mr. Hunter." Ms. Cheerilee nodded with a soft smile on her face. "See, it's a very important that I must teach my students about the world's famous Canterlot Sculpture garden." 

"I see." Mason nodded.

"Well, can we tag along?" I asked.

"I see why not. We do need some chaperones anyway." Ms. Cheerliee nodded, causing me to grin.

"Thanks, and by the way, Celeste says hi." I said, much to everypony's shock.

"Y-you mean, Princess Celestia?!" Snips asked in surprise, which I nodded. Huh, haven't seen since the Talent Show and the Ursa Minor. I started to shiver upon remembering that memory. Ooh boy, that's something I wished to forget.

"Yep." I nodded, much to the class's excitement, well all except for two little ponies.

"Oh please, like somepony idiotic like you would know what the princess would say." We all turned to a familiar tiara wearing pony and a gray pony with glasses. "Long time no see, hairless monkey."

"Hello Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon..." I said, narrowing my eyes at them. Long time no see indeed. 

"Huh? Do you know them, Ren?" Kaede asked in confusion.

"Yeah, they're known for being bullies and making fun of ponies who don't have a cutie-mark." I whispered through her, which she nodded and understood.

"Do you really think that the ruler of Equestria would bother with hairless monkeys like you all?" Silver Spoon giggled. Jeez, and I thought Blueblood was the only one who was an arrogant jerk.

"Exactly, Silver Spoon. I mean, I think that the princess would have more precious time than some idiotic brats." Diamond Tiara laughed as they both did their signature 'Sugar Rump' dance or whatever its called.

"Hey! That's not nice!" Carrie exclaimed in anger.

"Now young fillies..." Mason spoke up, giving them a stern look. "Princess Celestia is a kind princess who cares for everypony in Equestria, along with her sister.  She may be a princess, but she still a pony, so I think you two need to think about what you say. Besides, Ren said that Princess Celestia says hi, so get used to it and don't complain, got it?"

The two fillies immediately shut their mouth and felt shocked that they were being talked down by Mason. 

"Wow...that's almost seemed too cold, Mason." Kaede said in surprise.

"Tell me about it." Scootaloo nodded in agreement, her eyes were widened in shock to see both Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon to just get shot down like that.

"F-fine...I didn't want to talk to any of you anyway..." Diamond Tiara scoffed before she and her friend turned away from us. 

"Well...at least she won't be bothering us for a while." Kodi chuckled sheepishly while I looked at Mason in shock. He must really doesn't like people talking back to the princess for sure. 

"Well anyway..." Ms. Cheerilee cleared her throat before softly smiling at her class. "Now let's stop the fighting and continued our trip through the gardens."

"Yes Ms. Cheerilee." The class said as they started to head out.

"Come on!" Carrie grabbed her brother's hand as we began to follow after them.

As we walked through the garden, Ms. Cheerilee spoke up and said "I want to start our field trip here, in the world-famous Canterlot sculpture garden." Wow, this place is amazing. Who knew that Celeste has something like this? I mean, they're like a lot of statues here. Mason and Carrie inspected three statues of pony as Ms. Cheerilee came to his side and said "This one over here represents 'Friendship'."

"Really?" Carrie asked, inspecting the statue Ms. Cheerilee pointed out. I kinda don't get it, but I don't mind. I looked at the statues and saw that there were a difference. One was an Earth Pony, the next was a Pegasi, and the other was a Unicorn. Hmm, well those are the only three kinds of ponies found here in Equestria, so maybe it's a symbol to something?

"That one over there represents 'Victory'." Ms. Cheerilee pointed towards to another statue of a pony holding a flag with stars on it. Strange, I feel like I've seen this kind of statue somewhere back in my world. But where?

"Hey Ren, aren't you an artist? Don't you know anything about these sculptures?" Kaede asked, which made me shook my head and replied "Sorry Kaede, but I'm still an amateur artist, so I don't know what these statues stand for."

"Oh, I see." Kaede sighed before we continued to move on around the garden.

"How cool would it be to have that for a Cutie-Mark?" I overheard Scootaloo said as she pointed towards the statue we saw earlier.

"Cool, if you were actually 'victoryful' at something." Apple Bloom smirked at her, much to Scootaloo's annoyance.

"That's not a word!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed, nudging Apple Bloom very hard.

"What are you, a dictionary?" Scootaloo added, glaring at her friend.

"Whoa whoa whoa, girls, calm down!" I said, getting in between their argument. "Let's calm down a bit and relax, okay?"

They looked at me for a while before sighing and saying "Okay."

"Okay, now let's go." I said as we continued following after Ms. Cheerilee and her class.

"Everyone! Now this is a really interesting statue. What do you noticed about it?" I looked at the statue and couldn't help but raised a brow at it. What is this? It looked like a person who got mutated by every single animal in the world. I continued to look it in confusion...and for some reason...this statue looks...familiar to me...

"It's got an eagle claw!" Apple Bloom pointed out.

"And a lion paw!" Scootaloo added.

"And a snake tail!" Sweetie Belle said.

"And it looks like it has some antelopes." Carrie said, noticing the figure's head.

"Along with a goat beard?" Kodi said, raising a brow. 

"I think you mean a goatee, right?" I asked, sweat-dropping a little. It makes sense since Kodi never seen or had a goatee before. I once had when me and Twilight were testing some spells a while back.

"Just...what is this? It seems too unnaturally for a statue." Mason said, narrowing his eyes at the statue. 

"An excellent question." Ms. Cheerilee nodded in agreement. "This creature is called a draconequus. Said to be a very rare creature in Equestria. He has the head of a pony and a body made up of all sorts of things. What do you suppose that represents?"

"Evil!" Apple Bloom offered.

"Chaos!" Scootaloo suggested.

"It's not chaos, you dodo!" Sweetie Belle glared at Scootaloo, who glared at her back.

"Don't call me things I don't know the meaning of! And it is too chaos!"

"Is not!"

"You're both wrong!" Apple Bloom exclaimed angrily as they began fighting each other.

"But wait, isn't it all the same?" Carrie said in confusion.

"Why yes Carrie, you are correct." Ms. Cheerilee nodded with a happy smile on her face. "This statue represents 'Discord', which means a lack of harmony between ponies." A lack of harmony between ponies? Something tells me that isn't good.

"Whoa..." Kodi muttered. 

"In fact..." Ms. Cheerilee turned to the Crusaders with a sly smirk on her face. "You three have demonstrated discord so well that you're each going to write me an essay explaining it."

Soon, the entire class let out a laugh, much to the Crusader's disappointment. 

"Man, what's worse is too much homework..." I shook my head, reminiscing my middle school days. Don't feel bad girls, I know how it feels to get extra homework.

"Now let's go, and I don't want anymore fighting." Ms. Cheerilee smiled as she and the rest of the class moved on while me, Kaede, Kodi, Carrie, and Mason stayed and looked at the statue. 

"It's confusion!" I heard Apple Bloom exclaimed.

"Evil!" Sweetie Belle retorted back.

"Chaos!" Scootaloo added. While they moved on, we continued to look at the statue. I don't know why but...for some reason...I feel like I know him.

"Hey guys, why can't we stop looking at this statue?" Kaede asked in fear.

"I-I don't know..." Mason answered back, his eyes slowly widening in shock.

"D-do you think there's something wrong with this statue?" Carrie asked before letting out a gasp and putting her hands on her head in pain. 

"C-Carrie!" Kodi exclaimed in shock and concern.

"What's wrong, sis?!" Mason asked in worried before going the same thing as his sister. Huh?! Now him as well?! Kaede began to feel a pain on her head, along with me. W-what's going on?! 

"U-ugh!" I muttered before getting a massive headache.  What?! Where did this come-



How long have I seen those faces of yours...old friends? MWAHAHAHAHAHA!



"W-what the?!" I exclaimed in shock, before it all went away. What the heck was that just now? And did that voice came from that statue just now?!

"What?! What is it you guys?!" Kodiak asked, completely confused and worried about us.

"Umm, Mr. Loodan, Mr and Mrs. Hunter, and Ms. Ross?" We soon turned around to see Ms. Cheerilee coming back to us with a concern expression. "Are you four along with your canine friend will be joining us through Canterlot?"

"Umm..." I thought for a while until I answered "No thanks, we'll explore for ourselves, but give Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle our best wishes."

"I see, very well then." Ms. Cheerilee smiled before turning to Carrie. "And as for you Carrie, you seemed pretty friendly towards my three students, eh?"

"Well yeah, we became friends when me and my big brother woke up in the home-ship." Carrie chuckled.

"Well even so, I feel like you might be a fun edition to my class. Maybe I could think you entering my school so that you can hang out with your friends even more?" We all became surprised that that. Carrie...going to a school filled with fillies? That's something you don't hear everyday.

"R-really?" Carrie asked in wondered and amazement.

"Why yes, really." Ms. Cheerilee nodded. "If your brother allows that."

"Hmm...." Mason thought for a while before softly smiling. "I'll think about it later when we go back to Ponyville, Ms. Cheerilee."

"I see, well I'll tell the class that you all will see them again back at Ponyville. Take good care." Ms. Cheerilee took her leave and headed back with her students. Soon enough, we all sighed and looked back at the statue.

"Well that was something, wasn't it?" Kaede said. 

"Yeah...but I don't know why, but I feel like this statue is just giving us some trouble." Mason said, shaking his head. 

"Hey, did you all just hear something from this statue?" Carrie asked in worried, much to our surprise.

"What?! You too Carrie?!" Kaede asked in shock.

"So I wasn't the only here, right?" I asked, surprised to hear this. So we all heard it?

"This can't be a coincidence..." Mason shook his head with a serious expression on his face. "This statue must somehow be related to our memories on how we got here. We need to tell the princess."

"Seriously, what's happening?!" Kodi exclaimed.

"Oh right Kodi, we'll explain along the way. Come on!" I said as we all headed out of the Canterlot Sculpture Garden and attempted to go and find Celeste in the throne room. Hopefully, I remember where it is.



We all soon arrived to the throne room after getting some directions from the Royal Guards and telling Kodi what was happening and what we experienced before finally arrived to see Princess Celestia sitting on her throne, surprised to see us.

"Oh Ren and friends, what brings you here?" She asked in concern.

"P-princess! There's something important we need to tell you!" I said, trying to catch my breath. Before any of us could say anything else, a flash of green fire came out of nowhere and transformed into a letter in front of the princess.

"Whoa!" Kodi said in amazement.

"Wait, where did that even come from?" Kaede asked, surprised and amazed for that to happen. I then remembered about how Twilight send her messages towards the princess as I answered "It must be from Twilight. She once told me that she uses Spike's flames to transport her friendship reports towards Celeste."

"Really? How does that work?" Carrie asked, which I shrugged. Soon, we heard a gasp escaped from Celeste's mouth as she became worried about something.

"It couldn't be...no, it's not possible..." She muttered in worried.

"Princess?" Mason called for her. She soon turned to us with a serious expression and said "Ren, Kaede, Mason, Carrie, and Kodiak...I'm afraid a terrible incident is happening in Ponyville."

"What?! What's happening there?!" I asked in worried. We barely got here for like several hours and a problem is already happening back at home?!

"Apparently, Twilight described that Ponyville is experiencing some chaotic magic like Chocolate Milk rains, bunnies becoming strangely taller and houses becoming upside down and the townsfolk acting strange and weird." Celestia explained, much to our bewilderment and confusion.

"Huh? That's what happening?" Kodi asked. "Maybe somepony must be playing a prank, right?"

"No, I'm afraid this is not just a prank, Kodiak." Celestia said in a serious tone. "This is the work of chaotic magic, and I know one being who has the most powerful magic to do it."

"Really? Who?" Kaede asked.

"...Discord." Celestia answered, causing us to gasp in shock. She doesn't mean...the statue from her sculpture garden, right?!

"Hold on...are you referring to the statue we saw a while ago?" Mason asked in a serious look. "But isn't it just a statue?"

"I'm afraid you don't know who Discord is, Mason." Celestia shook her head. "You see, Discord is an old enemy of me and Luna from 1,000 years ago."

"Whoa..." Me and Kodi said in unison. So this Discord guy is immortal as well? 

"So wait, you're saying that statue we saw was Discord?!" Kaede asked in shock. "Because we just saw the statue with Ms. Cheerilee and her class a while back and couldn't help but hear some voice coming out of it."

"What did you say?!" Celestia asked in shock as she walked towards us. "What did this voice say?"

"It said something about how long have it seen our faces or something like that." I answered.

"Really?" Celestia asked, which we nodded. "Strange...how would he know about you four?"

"It almost sounds like...this Discord guy knows us." Carrie thought aloud.

"Maybe, but...are you sure?" Mason wondered.

"I just more confused about all this!" Kodi said, his eyes swirling around. 

"I think its best if we save all this talk later. Twilight and her friends are said to arrive here in Canterlot, so we should all wait." Celestia suggested, which we all agreed.

"Yeah, we're just gonna go back and forth with this explanation." Kaede said before sighing. "I'm already more confused about all this."

"Yeah, same here." I nodded. Discord...that's a new one on me. I know we heard a voice coming from the statue, but from this Discord? Like Carrie suggested, he might know us. But how? Does he somehow relate about our arrival in Equestria and our awakening in the home-ship or something? Ugh, thinking about all this is really hurting my head. I rather play video games to relax my mind, but I think now's not the time.

"Princess Celestia!" We all turned to see our Ponyville friends running out of the room with worried and concern looks. "We came as fast as we could!"

"Ren!" Fluttershy immediately came over and hugged me. "What are you doing here?!"

I hugged her back and smiled, happy to see her. "Well, we were busy exploring Celeste's castle, and now we're wrapped up in some troubles."

"Troubles?" She asked in concern until Mason spoke up and said "We'll explain everything later, right now I'm afraid we're in more trouble than what's happening back in Ponyville."

"How did you all know that?" Pinkie asked suspiciously before gasping "Are you psychic, Masey? Ooh! Ooh! What number am I thinking?"

"Umm...I don't think so, Pinkie." Kaede chuckled nervously.

"Fluttershy!" Kodi jumped onto Fluttershy's hooves and started licking her face, much to her joy.

"Hey there little Kodiak, good to see you here as well!" Fluttershy chuckled, scratching his ear. 

"Everypony..." We all turned to Celestia softly smiling of our friends' arrival. "Thank you all for arriving."

"Is this about the weather? And the animals' weird behavior? What's happening out there? Why isn't my magic working? Is there-"

"Twilight, calm down!" I exclaimed in shock. "You need to relax, and take a breather!"

Twilight chuckled sheepishly and replied "Y-you're right, so sorry princess."

"It's quite alright Twilight." Celesta assured before turning around and began heading out before she said "Follow me."

"Okay." Carrie answered back before we all followed after her. Wonder where she's taking us.



We all soon walked through a very long hallway, heading straight towards a large door at the end of it. As we walked with her, I noticed some stain-glassed windows on the walls. I was amazed to see the pictures we're seeing, and it seems that they're telling us about the history of Equestria.

"I've called you here for a matter of great importance. It seems an old for of mine, someone I thought I had defeated long ago, has returned. His name is...Discord."

Fluttershy let out a squeal, hiding behind me, much to my surprise.

"If I may ask, just who is Discord?" Mason asked seriously. "What did he do that made him a threat towards Equestria?"

"A good question, Mason." Celestia nodded before she continued her explanation. "Discord is the mischievous spirit of disharmony. Before my sister and I stood up to him, he ruled Equestria in an eternal state of unrest and unhappiness. Luna and I saw how miserable life was for Earth ponies, Pegasi, and unicorns alike, so after discovering the Elements of Harmony, we combined our powers and rose up against him, turning him to stone."

"Wait, he ruled Equestria?!" I asked in shock. "But I thought you and Luna ruled Equestria because of...you know, royal blood?"

"That's...something we speak some other time." Celeste answered with a sad look.

"So anyway, you turned Discord into a statue and he was like this for 1,000 years?!" Kaede asked in shock, which Celeste nodded. "Wow, that's a pretty long time."

"Whatever, at least the princesses took care of him and turned his sorry butt into stone!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. 

"Yeah! All right, Princess!" Carrie added with a smile

"Thank you for the encouragement Rainbow Dash and Carrie." Celeste smiled before frowning. "I thought the spell we cast would keep him contained forever, but since Luna and I are no longer connected to the Elements, the spell has been broken."

"No longer connected?" Twilight questioned. What does she mean 'no longer connected'? Wait...unless it's because...

"This has something to do with Luna turning into Nightmare Moon, right?" I asked, which Celeste nodded.

"Yes." Wow, that's so sad. We all soon finally arrived to a room, with a chest in front of us. "This is Canterlot Tower, where the Elements are kept inside since all of you recovered them." She made a determined and serious expression on her face. "I need you to wield the Elements of Harmony once again and stop Discord before he thrusts all of Equestria into eternal chaos."

"Okay, but can I ask something?" Kaede spoke up. "What are the Elements of Harmony?"

"Well..." I decided to answered. "See, they're these special jewels Twilight and the others used to turn Luna back to normal when she was Nightmare Moon, and it seems to somehow relate to the Magic of Friendship."

"Really? That sounds like something coming out of a five-year old." Kaede said bluntly before covering her mouth and turn to Celeste with a nervous look. "So sorry about that, Princess."

Celeste let out a chuckle and replied "It's quite alright Kaede, though I can understand your confusion."

"So these Elements of Harmony can stop Discord once and for all?" Mason asked, which Celeste nodded.

"But why us?" Twilight asked. "Why don't you-"

"Hey, look! We're famous!" Pinkie pointed towards one of the stain-glassed windows which displayed Twilight, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and...me defeating Nightmare Moon! I can even see myself on it using my Megaphone Hacking Gun. Holy crap-baskets! So I'm famous as well, that's awesome!

"What?! Why is Ren on it as well?!" Kodi asked in shock.

"Well, you must understand that Ren and his friends showed the full potential of the elements by harnessing the magic of friendship to beat a mighty foe." Celeste answered.

"Well, it was more like my Hacking Gun absorbed the Elements of Harmony power before we unleashed it towards Luna." I added.

"Really? The Hacking Gun really did something like that?" Mason asked in confusion, which I nodded.

"Although Luna and I once wielded the elements, it is you who now control their power, and it is you must defeat Discord!"

We all looked at each other worriedly, but until I made a determined look, along with Twilight, who also made a determined look as well. 

"Princess Celestia, you can count on us!" Twilight smiled.

"Yeah, no way we'll let a bad guy like Discord get away with this!" I added with determination.

"Hold it!" Pinkie stopped by throwing her hoof in our direction. Strange, she's doing the Phoenix Wright pose and the same high note he does when he screams 'Objection'. "Eternal chaos comes with chocolate rain, you guys. Chocolate rain!"

"C-chocolate rain?! Really?!" Kodi said, as he started drooling just thinking about the chocolate. We all, except Kodi, gave Pinkie blank expressions upon mentioning that.

"Umm...I don't see that happening." Mason said.

"Yeah, me neither." Kaede agreed.

Twilight sighed before turning back to Celeste with a soft smile. "Don't listen to her, Princess. We'd be honored to use the Elements of Harmony again." 

Celeste nodded and turned around to the door. She lowered her head and inserted her horn in the lock of the door, releasing magic and unlocking the door. The door released a bright light blue glow and opened, revealing a decorative chest which presented gems as well.

"Holy crap-baskets!" I exclaimed. Look at all those gems! 

"Ooh!" Rarity gazed in awe. "You can keep the Elements. I'll take that case!"

"Rarity, I am sorry to disappoint you, but now's really not the time." Mason said, sweat-dropping a little.

"Have no fear, ponies." Celeste encouraged us with a determined smile. "I have total confidence that you will be able to defeat Discord with these!" She moved the chest towards us and opened it, but it revealed nothing. 

We all gasped in shock upon finding it they were all gone. Even Celeste was shock as she dropped the chest and fell on the ground.

"The Elements...they're gone!" Twilight exclaimed, staring at the empty chest.

"B-but...how?!" I exclaimed.

"Maybe the princess just forgot where they were?" Kodi suggested, but Celeste shook her head.

"No, I know I put them inside that chest! Besides, that chamber is protected by a powerful spell that only I can break! This doesn't make any sense!"

Suddenly, that's when it happened.

"Heh heh heh heh...." We all looked around, hearing some laughter echoing in the halls. Carrie held onto her brother's arm in fear while Mason narrowed his eyes and gritted his teeth. Kodi hid behind my leg while I took out my Hacking Gun and Kaede looked around, feeling quite scared right now.

"Guys...I'm not liking where this is going." Kaede said.

"Make sense? Oh, what fun is there in making sense?" A voice spoke up in a snarky tone.

"Discord...show yourself!" Celeste demanded seriously.

The voice started chuckling again before saying "Did you miss me Celestia?" We all looked through the halls to see where the voice was before seeing something appeared in one of the stain-glassed windows. Oh my god, so that's Discord! He looks exactly like he was when he was a statue! "I missed you too! It's quite lonely being encased in stone..." He started moving throughout the other window before stopping on the window of us defeating Nightmare Moon. "...But you wouldn't know that, would you? Because I don't turn ponies into stone."

This...guy is Discord? The one who ruled Equestria that made everypony's lives miserable and got turned to stone by Celeste and Luna?

"Enough! What have you done with the Elements of Harmony?!" Oh man, I never seen Celeste this angry before.

"Oh, I just borrowed them for a teensy little while." He snapped his fingers, causing the elements in the window to disappear

"What? He just made them disappeared from a snap of his fingers." Kaede said in surprise. 

"Well thanks for the compliment, Miss Kaede Ross." What the?!

"Huh?" That's what I'm saying too!

"You'll never get away with this Discord!" Celeste exclaimed boldly.

"Oh, I'd forgotten how grim you can be, Celestia." Discord chuckled, laying on his back casually like it's not his problem. "It's really quite boring."

"Hey! Nopony insults the Princess and gets away with that!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed angrily before she took off and flew towards where Discord was.

"Rainbow Dash, wait!" Mason called for her, but it was too late as Discord snapped his fingers again and disappeared, causing Dashie to crashed into the wall before he reappeared when Dashie pulled herself off from the window.

"Oh, you must be Rainbow Dash, famed for her loyalty, the Element of Harmony you represent." Huh? He knows that as well?

"That's right! I'll always be loyal to the Princess!" Rainbow Dash smirked.

"Oh, we'll see about that.." He smirked evilly before disappearing.

"I can't believe we're wasting our time talking to a tacky window." Rarity commented.

"The beautiful Rarity, representing the Element of Generosity, if I am not mistaken?" Discord asked, reappearing on the window Rarity was in front of.

"So you know who we are, big deal." Applejack said in an irritated tone before she walked towards to Rarity.

Discord then enlarge himself on the window and said "Oh, I know much more than that, honest Applejack."

"You seem to know our strengths too." Twilight said, raising a brow.

"Yes, Twilight Sparkle, and yours is the most powerful and elusive element, Magic. Fluttershy's is Kindness and Pinkie Pie's is a personal favorite of mine...Laughter." Discord chuckled, and Pinkie was laughing alongside him as he appeared right on top of Twilight's head, in a small size no less.

"Pinkie!" Twilight exclaimed, giving Pinkie a stern glare for laughing along the enemy.

"He's standing on your head!" Pinkie laughed.

"Enough!" Celeste shouted, causing Pinkie to stop laughing. "Stop stalling, Discord! What have you done with the Elements of Harmony?!"

"Oh, so boring Celestia" He stopped dancing before reappearing himself in full size before noticing us. "Huh?"

"Uh oh..." I muttered as he suddenly appeared in front of me.

"And what do we have here? Four humans in Equestria? I never expected this." Discord chuckled.

"Wait, how did you know us?!" Mason demanded. "So earlier ago, you really do know us!"

"What?!" Our friends exclaimed in shock.

"If so, then are you related about our appearance in this world?!" Mason asked angrily, but Discord simply just rolled his eyes and crossed his...uh...arms?

"...I course I don't know, Mason Hunter." Discord replied, much to Mason's anger.

"Don't mess with me! Why do you know our names?! I demand an answer!"

"M-Mason, stop!" Carrie said, holding onto his arm real tight. "Please, relax!"

"Yes Carrie Hunter, don't wanna your 'big brother' to hurt me." Discord smirked. "Besides, why would I want to keep talking to the Mason Hunter, the 'human tool'." Mason eyes widened upon hearing that? Human tool? What does he mean?

"H-how...how do you know that?" Mason asked as his expression went pale in shock. 

"And how do you know what we are? I don't think any of us mentioned it to you at all." I said, upset that Discord would bullied Mason like that.

"I have my reasons....Ren Loodan." Discord glared at me, causing me to step back a little until he snapped his fingers, causing my Hacking Gun to disappear.

"Hey!" I exclaimed in shock and anger.

He made it reappeared in his hands...or is it paws? I don't know because his entire...body... "I see, a gun that is said to shoot program codes that affects machines and living organisms, never expected to see it active."

"Seriously, how does he know us?!" Kaede asked.

"I don't know, but I want my Hacking Gun back!" I asked, which caused him to sigh.

"Fine..." He snapped his fingers, causing it to appear in my arms. "Just so we're clear, I ain't afraid of your little gun this time." This time? What does he mean? So he really does know us? 

"What do you mean, 'this time'?" I asked.

"Nothing important, really. Like I would tell you guys anything." Discord laughed, causing Kodi to growl at him.

"Hey, leave him alone!" Kodi charged towards him, and went through him before smacking himself into the wall. 

"Well, I didn't know you own a Siberian Husky, and a very rare one as well. I mean, a talking dog? The writers these days love using that kind of gimmick, don't they?" Writers? Does he mean movie writers or something? Seriously, I feel like this guy's mind is full of insanity.

"Hey, leave Kodi out of this! Paralyze!" I pulled the trigger of my Hacking Gun, but nothing came out. "Huh? Why isn't it working? I know I charged it last night."

"Oh that, well sorry to disappoint you, but I'm afraid I took away most of your Hacking Gun's powers." Discord said, much to my shock.

"You remove the powers from the Hacking Gun?!" Twilight exclaimed in shock.

"Is that even possible?" Rarity asked in confusion.

"Well, maybe not. But I just wanted to have them for myself you see. Luckily, all I did was left both 'Break' and 'Move' on your little gun there, Loodan." Discord said. "Besides, I did that for 'game balancing purposes'."

"Game balancing purposes?" Kaede asked. I understood what he meant and sighed in disappointment. Man, now I feel quite useless with my Hacking Gun now. I feel like Terra from Final Fantasy 6. You know, from the beginning of the game, she has awesome powers but later, she loses them from the beginning of her journey and only knows a few spells and attacks? Yep, definitely feel like her right now.

"Enough of your tricks!" Mason yelled. "Why do you our kind?! Our names?! Everything?!"

"Well, let me put this in an obvious term...I'm know everything! Like I can read your minds...." Wait, was this guy serious? "Nah, I'm just kidding around." Oh...

"What?" Fluttershy asked.

"So then wait, how do you know them?" Rainbow asked.

"I told you all before, I have my reasons." Discord sighed in annoyance. "God, it's like talking to a bunch of brick walls...."

"Enough stalling Discord!" Celeste exclaimed while I ran towards Kodi and picked him up.

"Hey bud, you alright?" I asked in concern.

"Y-yeah, I think so..." Kodi shook his head, still hurt from the failed attempt to attack Discord. "Did we win?"

"Not even close, Kodi." I sighed before we looked back at Discord.

"Now tell us, where are the Elements of Harmony?!" Celeste demanded.

"Ugh...fine, I shall tell you then, but in my own way." He cleared his throat and said "To retrieve your missing Elements, just make sense of this change of events. Twists and turns are my master plan. Then find the Elements back where you began." With that, he disappeared as we can hear his laughter echoing through the halls. I looked at where Discord was last seen and began to wonder. How does he know us? And when he saw us, he looked...kinda angry like he despise us or something?

"C-can we all go home now?" Fluttershy asked worriedly.

"I wished we would, Fluttershy, but we can't." I shook my head. "We gotta stop Discord before its all too late!"

"Besides, I want answers and figure out how does he know us." Mason added.

"Yeah, I want to know that too." Kaede added.

"But what did he meant by that riddle of his?" Applejack asked. "Twist and turns and ending where we started?" 

"Twists and turns...twist and turns...twist and turns...." Twilight began rubbing her chin with her hoof until she widened her eyes with a smile. "That's it! I bet Discord hid the Elements in the palace labyrinth!"

"This castle has a labyrinth?" Kodi asked, which I shrugged.

"Wait..." Kaede spoke up. "Are you sure they might be in there? What if it could be a trap?"

"Well it's our only lead, Kaede." I said before smiling in determination. "Besides, I trust in Twilght's deduction, so let's go!"

Kaede was unsure about it until she smiled and replied "Alright, let's get to it!" I soon then noticed Twilight blushing a little. Hmm, wonder because of my compliment or something?

"Now hold on a second..." Mason stopped us. "I'm not sure if the Elements are in there. What if what Kaede said is true? It may be a trap. We need to think about the riddle even more."

"We got no time Mason! We need to hurry before Equestria will fall into total chaos!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Yeah, big brother! We can do it together!" Carrie exclaimed, causing Mason to sigh and frown.

"Very well, but Carrie...you must stay here." Mason said, much to his sister's shock.

"What?! But I wanna help too!" Carrie replied.

"I'm sorry, but this mission might be dangerous." Mason bent down to Carrie's height and continued "Besides, I don't want to put you into harm's way, so stay here in the castle with the princess, alright?"

Carrie looked at her brother until she sighed "A-alright..."

"Thanks." Mason nodded until he was hugged by his sister.

"Please be careful big brother." Carrie said, which Mason replied "Yeah, I'll be fine."

Soon, we all felt happy to see their bond together before I began to think about what Mason said. This task might be too dangerous...but that's the risk we have to do in order to save Equestria.

"Hey Kodi..."

"Yeah Ren?" Kodi turned to me with a confused look. I bent down and said "Can you stay by Carrie's side and make sure nothing happens to her?"

"Don't worry, you can count on me!" Kodi said, giving me a lick on the face. I chuckled before saying "Thanks bud."

I then scratched behind his ear, causing him to sigh happily.

"Alright everypony! Let's get going!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Good luck, my little ponies and humans. The fate of Equestria is in your hooves." Celeste said with a serious yet determined look.

"Thanks, Princess. We won't let you down." Twilight replied.

"Yeah, you can count on us Celeste!" I added with a smile before we took off towards the Castle's Labyrinth in order to search for the Elements of Harmony, leaving behind the princess, Carrie, and Kodi behind. But then again, I am wondering about Mason. What did Discord meant when he called Mason the 'human tool'? I want to ask him that, but its best not to ask him about it...for now.



Later
So this is the castle's labyrinth. Gotta say, it looks creepy and sorta reminds me of Castlevania. 

"W-we have to go in there?" Fluttershy asked in worried.

"Nope!" Rainbow said as she flew above us. "Dopey Discord forgot about these babies!" She showed us her wings.

"Oh right! Great idea Rainbow Dash!" Kaede exclaimed with a happy smile. 

"Thanks Kaede!" Rainbow nodded. "Now I'll just do a quick flyover, and we'll have the Elements in no time!" Huh, this'll be easier than I thought, but that's when I spoke too soon.

Apparently, Rainbow's wings suddenly disappeared, causing her to land harshly in front of us. 

"Dash, you okay?!" I asked in concern. She slowly got back up and respond "Y-yeah, I think so...huh? AH! My wings!"

Fluttershy let out a scream as her wings disappeared, along with Twilight's and Rarity's horns. 

"Your horn! My horn! AHHH!" They screamed at each other.

"What's going on?! Mason demanded. Suddenly, a green ball of light formed in front of us and revealed Discord's true form. He started laughing dramatically as lightning and thunder boomed around him. Okay, seriously, why is it that every villain I've seen on movies and cartoons does that all the time in the perfect moment?

"Y-you all should see the looks on your faces! Priceless!" He laughed again, much to our annoyance.

"Give us back our wings and horns!" Twilight demanded.

"You'll get them back in good time. I simply took them to ensure there's no cheating. You see, this is the first rule of our game: No flying, and no magic. Also, like earlier ago, Ren..." He turned to me with a smirk. "I took away most of your Hacking Gun's powers, so you won't be using them for a while."

"Dang it..." I muttered, still disappointed that he did something like that.

"The first rule? Of what exactly?" Mason asked, a little confused.

"The second rule is everypony has to play or the game is over, and I win! Good luck, everypony!" He laughed once more before vanishing.

"Don't worry everyone, I'm sure we'll do alright!" Kaede assured with a grin. "I mean, at least we have each other."

"Yeah!" Rainbow agreed. "Like Kaede said, there's nothing we can't overcome if we all stick together!"

"Alright, let's do this!" Twilight announced as we all stood at the entrance of the labyrinth. We all stood together and shouted "Together!" in unison. Suddenly, walls of shrubs appeared to Mason's right and immediately began separating each of us in the labyrinth, causing us all to scream.

"Stay calm!" Twilight exclaimed. "Everypony head to the middle as fast as you can, and we'll regroup there!"

"You got it!" I heard Kaede answered.

"I'll see you all at the center." I heard Mason respond back.

"What's that? Who's there? GIRLS?!" Fluttershy exclaimed in worried.

"Don't worry Fluttershy, we'll be okay! Trust me, we're gonna make this out together! I'll see you when we all regroup!" I shouted back and began hearing deep breaths coming from shrubs. Seems to me that Flutters is trying to relax.

"Okay, Ren." I smiled happily before making my way through a door. Huh? It's locked. Hm? I noticed a big red button next to it as I understood what to do.

"Move!" I shouted as I shot ' Move' at the button, causing it to turn green before the door slowly opens. Alright, time to go all out and retrieve the Elements.



Meanwhile
Back at Princess Celestia's Castle, Carrie is seen walking through the halls with Royal Guards and Kodiak with her. Princess Celestia ordered her guards to escort both Carrie and Kodi to their private rooms to make sure that they'll be protected from Discord.

"I sure hope that Mason, Ren, Kaede, and the others will be alright..." Carrie muttered in worried.

"Don't worry Carrie, they'll be fine! I believe in them!" Kodi assured with a grin. "Besides, you got me!"

Carrie looked at Kodi before chuckling and smiling. "Yeah,  you have a good point."

"Ahh, that's a shame Li'l Carrie..." Carrie eyes' widened as the Royal Guards looked around in search of that voice. That's when a portal appeared, revealing Discord. "And here I thought we might get along."

"Discord!" Kodi exclaimed, surprised to see him here. 

"You! Surrender now or you'll face many consequences!" One of the Royal Guards said as Discord chuckled, snapping his fingers and making the guards being in case in Jell-o.

"Ahh!" Carrie exclaimed in shock as she looked to see Discord walking towards her. "W-what do you want from me?!"

"Nothing much, just wanna you to hang out with me and maybe see how your brother is doing." Discord replied before grabbing Carrie's hand and began dragging her towards the portal. 

"H-hey! Let me go!" Carrie exclaimed as Discord simply just laughed at her foolish attempt to escape as they both crossed the portal, with Kodi gasping before jumping in to save Carrie before the portal disappeared, and leaving the Royal Guards trapped inside their Jelly prison.

"Umm...a little help? Anypony?" A Pegasi guard asked, but no one answered.



Mason's POV
I was running through the tunnel as I began to search frantically for an exit out of this place in order to find the others.

"Where is that exit?!" I exclaimed until I noticed the scenery started to change. What the? What's going on? The walls of shrubs, the mist, everything around me started to change into a...balcony?

I walked around the place, seeing the sunset. Wait, this balcony...this place...it's the castle...but how?

"Mason..." I froze upon hearing someone calling my name. Someone familiar to me..." I slowly turned around to see...her.

"E...Elena..." I muttered in shock. Elena was a normal and slim as she had neck long light blonde hair wrapped in a long ponytail that reaches to her back, light peach skin, and brown eyes. She wears a blue and white dress with a large green ribbon with a purple and silver jewel on the chest and a violet ribbon with diamonds in her hair. She also wears a white bracelet on her right wrist, black and white thigh high socks, and red Mary Janes.

I don't believe it, she's here. But...how? 

"Umm...aren't you gonna say 'hi' back to me?" Elena chuckled, causing me to immediately hug her tight. "Whoa! What's gotten you in the mood, Mason?"

"Elena, I'm back! I'm finally back!" I exclaimed in joy as I started to let out some tears. "Please, tell me that everything is alright.

"Yeah, everything's fine." Elena nodded with a smile. "Though, why do you act like I never existed, you goofball."

I chuckled nervously before turning away and blushing. "S-sorry...M-madam."

"Mason, you don't have to keep calling me that. I told you like a million times that I prefer to be called 'Elena."

"R-right, so sorry Elena." I nodded as she chuckled and said "So, I was meaning to talk to you."

"Huh? About what your ma...I mean, Elena?" I asked curiously. She gestured me to look out through the balcony and watch the sunset with her. I gazed upon it as I crossed my arms and smile softly.

"It sure is beautiful, isn't it?" Elena said, smiling softly.

"Yeah...almost as you." I said, causing her to laugh.

"Mason, you goofball!" Elena laughed before she gazed back at the sunset before frowning, which I noticed.

"Elena, is there something wrong?" I asked worriedly.

"Well, I was thinking about what's it like out there." Elena said, looking over the castle. "I always wanted to see more of the outside world."

"But Elena, weren't you with your father in New York when we first met?" I asked in confusion.

"True, but I did that as a princess, I just want to be a normal girl." Elena sighed. "I just want to see and travel through the oceans, sightseeing in cities, and meeting new people everyday and be respected like an everyday person. You should know the hard life for being royal, right Mason?"

"No, not at all Elena." I said, which caused her to chuckle a bit. "But you know, maybe one day, we can just go out there together. You, me, Carrie...we can all experience much more of the outside world than being inside of the castle."

"You're right, and Mason...promise me that one day, that we explore this world together and help guide people to the right path, that's the duty of a ruler like me."

"A-are you sure about that?" I asked.

"Yeah, I know you can make friends and those in need, that's why you were taken in along with your sister. You're always there to protect us while your sister encourages you to keep moving forward, along with me." Elena replied. "You protect those close to you, everyone in my family and my kingdom, you always protect us, and I know you can do it."

I blinked in surprise until I noticed my two pet squirrels coming out of my scarf and sat on top of my head, smiling towards me. Nate and Maddy as well?

"Well it seems like those two little guys think that you can do it too, Mason." Elena chuckled. I looked at them before looking back at Elena before smiling in determination.

"You're right, I promise to fulfill your wish to protect you and those close to me." I nodded.

Elena clapped her hands together and smiled. "Thank you Mason! I knew I could trust you, despite you being a tool for me. I know you can do it."

"Thanks, I....wait...what did you just call me?" I asked, slowly widening my eyes.

"I said I knew I could trust you, despite you being a tool for me." Elena raised a brow.

I narrowed my eyes and took out my bamboo pole, straight towards 'Elena'. "Who are you?!"

"What? Mason! What are you doing?!" She demanded.

"Don't play games with me! The real Elena wouldn't call me a 'tool', so who the heck are you?!" I shouted, causing 'Elena' to be afraid of me until she started laughing.

"Oh man...I can't believe I've been found out." Huh? Wait, that voice....it's him. "Ahahahaha, very clever Mason! You never cease to amaze me!" 

Soon, everything around started to change back to way it was before and Elena transformed into...

"Discord..." I growled as Discord appeared right in front of me.

"I was so sure I could fool you, but it looks like you saw right through me." Discord sighed. "I should really watch what I say when fooling somepony."

"Enough! What do you want?" I asked, irritated to see him here.

"I came here for a little deal we can make." Discord smirked, causing me to raise a brow.

"What deal? Because if its something relating about ruling Equestria alongside of you, then no." I said, walking past him and continuing forth.

"Really? Not even to save your little sister?" I froze upon hearing that as I slowly turned back and darkly glared at him.

"You didn't?" I growled angrily at him as he simply chuckled and replied "Oh, I did."

He snapped his fingers and showed my sister, trapped in a magic bubble as she noticed me and started banging on the bubble. "Mason!"

"Carrie!" I rushed towards her until Discord made it disappeared.

"Sorry, but if you want to have her back..." Discord smirked evilly. "You must help me in defeating those six pest and those human losers."

"You! I won't let you get away with this!" I shouted in anger.

"Really? Well let's say if you don't help me, you won't get to see your sister, and I'll just happily reveal your little secret to your friends." Discord chuckled, much to my shock.

"N-no...You wouldn't dare." I clenched my fist as Discord replied "Oh I would. Besides, if they know the truth, then I'm sure they'll either be afraid of you or simply laugh at you, not believing a single word from you. Do you really want them to know the truth? It might affect your little 'friendship' with them."

I darkened my expression as Discord started to smirk and said "Good, so now we can work together in order to rule Equestria and destroy your friends for good if you just simply-"

"No." I replied, much to Discord's confusion.

"What?" He asked.

"Maybe you're right. Maybe they'll either won't believe me or be afraid of me because what I am. A tool...I'm nothing more than a tool. But..." I then looked at him with a serious and determined expression. "But maybe I can give them a chance. Whether or not they know the truth, they always treated me like a true friend, like Elena..."

I took out the golden amulet from my pockets and opened it, revealing myself from when I was younger, along with Carrie and...Elena. "I made a promise to her to protect those that I love and guide them all to the right path towards their dreams, and I'm attending to keep it."

"Y-you! YOU!" Discord growled and clenched his fist in anger. "Fine! Be that way! Don't come crying to me when they laugh at you and/or be afraid of you!"

"Say what you want, but just remember this..." I darkened my face and glared at him with my dark red eyes. "You should know that nobody touches my sister, and once I confront you and save Carrie from your claws....you're gonna be sorry."

Discord smirked and replied "Alright, I hope we meet again...Mason Hunter." He then disappeared out of thin air, leaving me alone again. How did he know about Elena? How does he know so much about me? Maybe he looked through our memories from our dreams?

No, that's not possible, but then again, he somehow knows us. Ugh, it's best to answer these questions later. Right now, I gotta continue on and save Carrie before it's too late!



Kaede's POV
"Man, I am so lost right now..." I muttered in sadness. Not only I was separated from the others, but we're playing some sort of game in order to find the Elements of Harmony. This is so bad...

I mean, Mason got Kendo skills, Ren got a Megaphone Hacking Gun, but what do I have? Nothing, I'm just a normal high school girl, after all.

"I know what you're thinking, Kaede..." Huh? The scenery started to change as it transformed into a city, much to my surprise. Wait, this city...this is my hometown in New York. That's when I encountered him as he appeared right in front of me.

"Discord!" I exclaimed in shock. "What are you doing here?!"

"I'm simply here to see how you doing? You feeling useless, aren't you?" He asked with a smirk on his face.

"W-what? What are you talking about?" I asked in fear. 

"You know, you couldn't do anything to help out. You may be a good costume maker and a maid at a diner, but does anybody appreciate or even accepted your existence?" I widened my eyes and went pale upon being reminded of that as I began to hear voices.

"You're such a useless little girl."

"What's the point of her existing?"

"You better do what I say! We own you and we don't want mother to be angry at an insolent brat!"

"You're more stupid than your father!"

These voices...it's coming from my step family...their opinions about me...it's all coming back...I fell onto my knees and covered my ears, not wanting to hear more of their voices about how useless I am, and saying all those nasty things about my dad.

"You see, what's the point to have friends when they could possibly treat you worse like your step-family, Kaede." Discord smirked. "Why not just give up, go back to that accursed Ponyville, and be left alone forever. Besides, it's not like the others cared about you."

Do they...really care about me? Is this...real? "N...No..."

"I beg your pardon?" Discord asked in confusion. I soon got up from my knees with a determined look.

"Ren and the others would never betray me!" I exclaimed. "Back when I was starting to get used to Ponyville, Pinkie Pie and the others made me a welcoming party to Equestria, Ren, Mason, Carrie, and Kodi appreciate my work and the cooking I do for them, and even the princess invited me to the Gala. I don't want to hear more of your lies Discord! I won't fall for your tricks!"

"What?! Impossible!" Discord exclaimed angrily. "Grrr! I have the other ponies wrapped in my claws, and yet you won't give up?! You're quite persistent for a human!" 

"Whatever! I don't care if I'm useless or not, I won't fall for your lies! Ren and the others do care about me! Even if I am normal and can't do anything, I'll still fight back and support my friends to the very end!" I exclaimed in determination, which even surprised me as well. Whoa, did I really say all that? That's quite...amazing. 

"Hmph! No matter, you all will fall into despair soon enough once you learn the truth." Discord chuckled, much to my confusion.

"Truth? What are you talking about?" I asked cautiously.

"Oh, you'll see...whenever the author will reveal that plot twist later in the series." Discord then looked off-screen and winked, much to my confusion. This guy really has gone insane. "Well no matter, bye-bye!" With that, he disappeared, along with the city background, putting me back in the Castle's Labyrinth. 

"Well...that was pretty weird." I said to myself. Oh well, no matter, I gotta get out of here and find the others and the Elements! I immediately straight through the path, trying to find the exit of this place. I hope Ren, Twilight, and the others are alright.



Ren's POV
Man, I feel like I've been running like forever. I was getting tired of running so I decided to take a little breather and continued walking through the path. Still though, I feel pretty useless now that my Hacking Gun's power is reduced so small. Dang it, Discord!

"Well, don't blame me for this mess!" Huh? Wait, who said that? Suddenly, the scenery started to change, leaving me in some sort of place big urban city area. Wait, this is where I live. But how did I end up back here?

"You really are determined to defeat me, aren't you Ren?" I turned around to see Discord relaxing and stretching his back on a chair. "I say that you might even possess an even greater hope."

"What do you want Discord?" I asked, raising my Hacking Gun in front of him.

"Don't let the thought of me tricking you to betray your friends just so I could come over here to trick you and betray your fiends." Discord assured, getting off his chair and waved his hands in surrender.

"Well, you just told me what you're gonna do." I said, narrowing my eyes. "So anyway, just leave me alone and don't touch my friends, capiche?"

"Yeah yeah, whatever..." Discord waved his claw at me before disappearing and reappearing on my shoulder. "Now let's cut to the chase, we can make a deal Loodan, what do you say?" He wiggled his brows at me, while I looked at him in a deadpan expression.

"No way! I would never make a deal with somepony like you!" I exclaimed, flicking him off my shoulder. He immediately fell to the ground and shook his head before turning back to full size. 

"I see..." He dust himself before letting out a smirk. "So you won't join me? Not even for a best dog friend of yours?" 

"What?" I asked in surprise. He doesn't mean....

He snapped his fingers, revealing Kodiak in a magic bubble. 

"Ren!" He called for me, trying to scratch his way out of the bubble, but it was useless.

"Kodi!" I exclaimed in shock before turning to Discord with a serious expression. "You give back Kodiak this instant, Discord!"

"Really? Maybe we can work a deal, maybe?" Where is this going exactly? "See, I've heard that you and your human companions are trying so hard to get back to your beloved 'Earth', so I could help you with that." What? I-is he serious right now?! He can seriously...bring me back home?

"W-what?..." I asked in shock.

"Ren! Don't listen to him! He might be tricking you!" Kodi exclaimed.

"True, I can send you back to the lovable hands of your family. Your mom, dad, big brother, and little sister must be extremely worried about you, aren't they?" Discord said in a mocking tone before snapping his fingers, making a tissue appear in his claws and blow right into it.

"Wait...how do you know so much about me?" I asked with suspicious. "I never told you anything about my family."

"Oh, but Ren...I know everything about you and your friends. How else did I know so much about which Element of Harmony your pony friends were?" He asked with an evil smirk. "But I can allow you to head back to your world and see your family and friends again? You can go back and live the life you once lived."

I can seriously go home...But should I trust him or something? "Wait...what about Mason, Kodi, Carrie, and Kaede?"

"Oh, you can forget them. You were determined to find a way to get back home, so this might be your chance. I can even spare that little puppy dog pal of yours." Discord said.

I looked at him with a serious expression before shaking my head and replied "Well if that's the case...then I won't accept your offer."

"What?! You too?! Come on!" Discord exclaimed angrily.

"That's right! You go Ren!" Kodi cheered for me.

"Look, I would never leave my friends behind, no matter what! I would rather sacrifice myself to save them, and I can't just leave Mason, Carrie, and Kaede behind, including Kodiak. I made a promise to them that we'll go back to our world together and be best friends forever. Besides, I simply can't leave without wishing good bye to Twilight and the others. That'll just feel so wrong, you know?"

"Ren..." Kodi said, eyes sparkling in amazement from my speech. 

"GRRRR!" Discord growled while he gritted his teeth. "No matter how many times I tried, you still won't fall into despair! You're so unpredictable! I'm starting to think why else you nine were selected for the project besides your immunity."

"Huh? What are you talking about?" I asked in confusion.

"Enough of this! I'm out of here!" Discord exclaimed before letting out a sigh. "Oh well, at least I managed to trick your other friends into my traps, unlike you and the other humans."

"What?! What did you do to Flutters, AJ, Dash, Rares, Pinkie, and Twi?" I asked in concern.

"You'll find out...for now, that is. Oh well, bye-bye!" With that, he just simply vanished, along with the scenery I was in and Kodi. Strange, he DOES know something. I mean, nine of us? Immunity? Project? What's going on here? And what does he mean by the nine of us? They're simply four of us here....

"I better get out of here before my head explodes from all this thinking." I sighed before running out of the maze and headed for the exit. As I kept running, I couldn't help but think about Kodi. Hang on tight pal, I'm coming for ya!



Later
Finally...After running through that maze, I finally gotten to the center of the labyrinth...I think.

"Phew...I finally made it out of there." I turned to see Kaede coming out with a soft grin on her face. She then noticed me and exclaimed "Ren! You're here!"

"Kaede! You're okay!" I exclaimed as she came over and hugged me tight.

"I thought that something happened to you because of Discord!" Kaede said in worried before ending our hug.

I chuckled and made a tooth-eating grin. "Oh come on! No way Discord would trick me! Besides, when he mentioned something about tricking our friends, I thought something happened to all of you!"

"Well, I simply didn't believe anything he said, and I just kept moving forward." Kaede smiled.

"Well that's good to hear." I sighed until we saw the walls of shrub behind me started to open up a new path, revealing....

"Mason!" Me and Kaede exclaimed as he came out with a serious yet grin expression on his face. 

"Mason, you're here as well!" I exclaimed in joy before noticing his expression as he slammed his fist on the walls of shrub in anger, much to our surprise. "Mason?"


"Huh?" He soon noticed us, calming his expression. "R-Ren? Oh, I didn't you or Kaede there." Mason replied sadly. What's going on with him. "I see you two weren't tricked by Discord as well, huh?"

"Yeah...but what's going on with you?" Kaede asked in worried. "You seemed like somebody died or something."

"No, it's not that...Discord has my sister." Mason said, much to our shock. So Discord has Carrie as well?! This is very bad!

"Her too?! He took Kodi as well! He even showed me trapped in a magic bubble!" I said.

"Yeah, and that bastard just made a death wish! Nobody threatens my sister and gets away with that!" Mason growled as me and Kaede looked at each other in worried. Speaking about Discord...

"Hey Mason." I spoke up, causing him to turn to me as he said "What?"

"About Discord...Just earlier, he said something about you being a 'human tool'..." Mason eyes' widened upon hearing that. "So...what does he mean by that?"

Mason slowly turned away from us with a sad look on his face. 

"Mason?" Kaede called for him as he turned back to us.

"Listen, there's something I have to tell you all...." Mason sighed before continuing "You see, Discord meant by-"

"Ren! Kaede! Mason! There you guys are!" We turned around to see Twilight rushing towards us, along with the others, but I noticed Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Applejack were somewhat grey and looked angry or something. I don't even see Rainbow Dash anywhere as well.

"Twilight? Girls? What's up?" I asked, happy and surprised to see them here. "And why are most of you grey?"

"Oh what? You hate seeing me like this, Ren?" Fluttershy asked in a snarky tone, much to my shock. 

"F-Flutters?" I asked in surprise and concern.

"Don't 'Flutters' me, Ren!" Fluttershy exclaimed in an aggressive way. "I don't why I would bother with a freak like you!" What the heck is going on with her?! This can't be Fluttershy right? She would never act like that!

"Fluttershy, what's going on with you?" I asked in worried.

"Oh? Why would I bother talking with you? Besides, it's not you care about or notice any of my feelings." Fluttershy turned away and walked off, much to my shock. I made a sadden expression as I became sad that she would say something like that.

"What just happened?" Kaede asked, surprised by Fluttershy's attitude. "And why is Rarity carrying a giant boulder?"

"You shut your muzzle, Kaede! I think you mean my beloved gem!" Rarity exclaimed, hissing at her before rubbing her face at the 'gem'. "Besides, somepony like you would never understand jewelry."

"Okay?" Kaede asked, sweat-dropping a little.

"What's going on? Why are all of you acting like this?" Mason asked, crossing his arms with a serious expression.

"Nothing Mason, we're fine." Applejack waved her hoof at us in a sarcastic tone. "Besides, it's not like we have anything else to worry."

"Ugh! What's the point of worrying over some stupid things!" Pinkie exclaimed in an angry tone. "This is so pointless! I hate this trip!"

"What's happened to them? They're like the opposites of who they are." Kaede said in worried. Hold on, didn't Discord say that he tricked my friends? Oh no...

"I think Discord did this!" I exclaimed, much to Twilight, Kaede, and Mason's shock.

"What?" Mason asked, narrowing his eyes.

"He told me that he tricked some of my friends, and this is what he meant!" I exclaimed. "He must've done something to our friends and made them...like this!" I said, pointing over them as Fluttershy started jumping on a pink flower with an evil smirk. Applejack just layed down while Pinkie started yelling over nonsense and such and Rarity was keep rubbing her cheeks on the giant boulder.

"You make a good point Ren, but right now! We need to focus and find the Elements!" Twilight exclaimed. "Hopefully, things can't get any worse, right?"

"I don't think you should've said that." I said.

"Ren's wrong, I can see Rainbow Dash flying away. She's abandoning us." Applejack said, sighing.

"Now I know that's a lie." Twilight said, glaring at Applejack.

"Actually, she's not kidding! Look!" Kaede pointed to the sky and we saw Dash flying off...with her wings?! What the heck?! But didn't her wings disappeared?!

"Rainbow Dash?" I asked as my expression went pale. That can't be? Rainbow would never abandoned us...she's our best friend.

"How can it be?" Twilight asked in shock. Suddenly, the whole maze dissolved towards the ground, leaving us in a wide, open, and bare crater.

"Well, well, well..." Discord appeared before us with an evil smirk on his face. "Somepony broke the 'no wings, no magic' rule." 

"Discord!" Mason glared angrily at him. "What did you do?!"

"I have done no such thing, Mr. Human tool." Mason growled at what Discord called him as he grinned and continued "But what really matters is that it's game over, my little ponies and humans. You didn't find your precious Elements." He snapped his fingers, making an umbrella appeared before him, along with Fluttershy's wings, and Twilight and Rarity's horns. "Looks like we might be due for a big old storm of chaos!" He opened the umbrella upside down and began laughing evilly as thunder cracked and lightning flashed in the sky. Twilight made a worried expression as her mouth was agape in shock.

Me, Kaede, and Mason looked at each other in worried as Discord continued to laugh. This is bad! Not only is my Hacking Gun powers are now useless, but Carrie and Kodiak are captured by this guy! We can't lose to him! We can't! Is this...the end for us?
To Be Continued
> Chapter 29 - The Return of Disharmony Part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I still can't believe it! We were had by Discord! He played us like a violin!...or a puppet? Whichever comes first, but anyway, as Discord continued laughing like a maniac.

"And what are you laughing at?!" Pinkie asked angrily.

"Ho, you ponies are just the most fun I've had in eons!" Discord responded, wiping a tear from his eye.

"Well, quit it!" PInkie screamed at him. "You better think before you laugh at the Pink..." Pinkie looked back for a moment to think.

"You mean Pinkie Pie?" Kaede answered as Pinkie looked back at her in anger and exclaimed "I knew that already, Kaede! So shut up!"

"Jeez, I was just helping out..." Kaede sweat-dropped.

"Oh, yeah?" Fluttershy questioned, evilly smiling at Pinkie Pie. "Well, ha ha ha."

"Uh oh..." I muttered as I was still shocked by Fluttershy's...attitude.

"Quit it!" Pinkie replied angrily.

"No. Ha ha ha." Fluttershy continued to purposely laughed, causing Pinkie to be more angry.

"QUIT IT!" Pinkie yelled.

"Everyone stop!" Mason shouted. "We need to stop fighting and try to work together!"

"Mason's right." Twilight agreed with a serious expression. "We're supposed to be a team! Not enemies!"

"Well, maybe Twilight might be onto something..." Applejack said, but we knew that she was being sarcastic. "Maybe we need to work together?"

"Oh please!" Rarity scoffed. "You all are just trying to deceive me to get my Tom! Well, I won't let that happen!"

"T-tom?" I asked, raising a brow. 

"That's right! Tom! I named him myself! So back off cretins!" Rarity hissed at us. Did she literally just named that giant boulder 'Tom'? Yep, she gone bonkers.

"This is just too entertaining." Discord laughed as he snapped his fingers, making a couch appear as he sat on it and began eating some popcorn.

"Stop it, Discord. You're not playing fair." Twilight glared at him.

"Yeah, you cheated, you...cheater!" I exclaimed, pointing my Hacking Gun at him.

"Me? A cheater?" Discord asked, pretending to act surprise. "Well, that's rude. I believe we haven't met before. I'm Discord, spirit of chaos and disharmony. Hello?"

"Not funny!" Kaede said, glaring at Discord. 

"How are we supposed to find the Elements of Harmony when you took away the labyrinth before we could get to the end?" Twilight questioned.

"Oh, wait, did you?..." Discord soon began laughing again, much to our annoyance. "How funny! You thought the Elements were in the labyrinth?"

"So it was a trap. I knew it." Mason darkly glared at him. "You lead us by making us assume that the Elements were hidden in this labyrinth because of the first part of the riddle, correct?"

"Well, at least somebody is paying attention." Discord smirked. "Here, why don't I jog all your memories?" He cleared his throat, reminding us of his riddle he gave to us earlier. "Twists and turns are my master plan. Then find the Elements back where you began."

"Find the elements back where you began..." I muttered, trying so hard to know what that last part meant. 

"Hope you all try to figure that out. Maybe the magic of friendship can help you." Discord chortled. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have some chaos to wreak." He snapped his fingers and disappeared.

"Hey! Get back here! Give me back Carrie!" Mason yelled.

"Mason! Calm down!" Twilight said, trying to calm him down. "We're going to get Carrie back!"

"Yeah, along with Kodi." I added, still worried about my best pal. Kodi, please be alright. Soon, I felt a drip on my head as I looked up to see some pink clouds raining down, but instead of rain, it was...

"Chocolate milk?" I asked, letting a drip fall on my tongue. Well, even if we're trying to save Equestria from a craze chaos maniac of a villain, this isn't half-bad.

"Chocolate milk? I hate chocolate milk!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"Ugh!" Twilight sighed in frustration as she began thinking. "Think, Twilight, think!"

"What could he mean by that?" Kaede wondered. "It must be a clue to...something."

"Whatever it is, we need to hurry!" Mason said, tapping his foot impatiently. "I need to hurry if we're gonna both Carrie and Kodiak."

"Hmm..." I began to think, wondering what did Discord's riddle meant by that. Find the Elements back where you began....Wait...that's it! "I got it!"

"Huh? What is it, Ren?" Twilight asked. "Did you figured out the riddle?"

"Yeah, I think I know what he means! Twilight, can you transport us back to Ponyville?" I asked, surprising her, Kaede, and Mason.

"What?! Why in Equestria would you want me to go back to Ponyville when we have an evil villain to deal with?!" Twilight asked.

"No time to answer that! Hurry!" I begged, much to her annoyance.

"Fine, but you better be onto something. Besides, this might be difficult due to using too much magic to transport all of us." Twilight gave me a glare before her horn began glowing and soon, we transported ourselves back from the labyrinth and back to Ponyville.

"Ren, explain why you dragged us here?" Mason demanded.

"Mason! Trust me on this one! If we head back to the library and-" All of a sudden, we began to hear a rumble as we looked back and saw a bunch of long-legged bunnies charging towards us.

"Look out!" Twilight exclaimed as we all moved out of the way.

"Good boy, Angel! Mama's sou proud!" Fluttershy commented in a cruel way. I made a sad and worried look towards Fluttershy, seeing how she was acting. I just hope that once we defeated Discord, everyone will be back to normal.

"Wow, I can see so much better now." Applejack commented, sounding sarcastic right there. 

"What the heck?" Kaede asked, widened her eyes as we bore witness at what was supposed to be Ponyville, but instead, it looked like we were in Wonderland. "What happened to Ponyville?!"

"Are we even sure we're in Ponyville, Twi?" I asked in shock. "Because to me, I think we're in Wonderland!"

"Of course we are! I just don't why it looks like this!" Twilight exclaimed as she tried to walk but instead, slipped into some road made out of soap.  "WAH! AHHH!" We all watched slipped through the slippery road.

"What is even going on here anymore?" Mason questioned, shaking his head from all this.

"I...have no clue." Kaede sweat-dropped.

"Me neither." I added, also sweat-dropped.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Huh? I turned around and let out a yelp upon seeing Discord right behind me. "This is the new and improved Ponyville, and these are only my first of changes."

"First changes?" I asked in fear. 

"Just ignore him and let's keep moving on. He'll just keep confusing us even more." Mason sighed as he slide through the slippery road. Me and Kaede looked at each other, shrugging before we followed after him and Twilight. 

"Huh, this is actually pretty fun." Kaede chuckled.

"Y-yeah, it sure is." I smiled happily.

"This may look like fun, but it's not!" I heard Pinkie exclaimed, still keeping her straight, serious, but angry expression on her face.

"Ugh!" I heard Twilight groaned. Hang on Twi, we're gonna get them back!

We stopped at the end of the path and saw the rest of Ponyville and the rest of civilians. They seemed to be avoiding anything 'chaotic'.

"Picture it: the chaos capital of the world." Discord appeared before us with a smirk on his face as he snapped his fingers, causing the sun to be lowered. Huh? He can do that too?! But I thought both Celeste and Luna were the only ones who have the power to move the sun and moon.

"I can't picture anything. It's too dark." Twilight responded, narrowing her eyes at him.

Discord smirked and replied "Well, wait a few minutes and you'll see it in the beautiful light of day. Or not." Discord jumped into a hop before disappeared.

"Ponyville, the chaos capital of the world?" Mason asked, face-palming himself. "Really?"

"Well, not if I have anything to say about it." Twilight said, still determined to fight back.

"Don't worry, you won't." Fluttershy said, ruining Twilight's mood as she let out a sigh of frustration. 

"Come on Fluttershy, stop trying to ruin our hopes." I sighed sadly.

"Oh please, speak for yourself." Fluttershy scoffed, much to my surprise.

"Huh? What do you mean?" I asked.

"You really don't know? You really never knew anything about me?!" Fluttershy asked angrily. "You never knew about the blushes I was given off?! Anything at all!?"

"Uh...no?" I replied nervously. Fluttershy crossed her hooves and turned away from me, much to my shock. Jeez, what's her problem?!

"Can we focus for two seconds?!" Twilight yelled. "We need to hurry! Now Ren, show us the way to find the Elements!"

"Right, follow me!" I said, heading straight to the center of town. Thanks to Discord's riddle, I figured out where they are.



Later
Phew, after some troubles with our friends, we finally arrived back to the Golden Oaks Library. 

"Why did we come here?" Kaede asked. "Are the Elements in there?"

"Yeah, thanks to Discord's riddle." I replied with a smile.

"What?" Twilight asked.

"See Twilight, when Discord said about 'Find the Elements back where you began', I realized the day when we all first met right here! The day I woken up from that chamber in the home-ship! That's what he meant!"

"Of course, how didn't I think of that?!" Twilight face-hooved herself. 

"Maybe cause you're so dumb and pathetic?" Fluttershy chuckled evilly, ignoring the glare Twilight was giving her.

"Anyway...I guess you were getting tired from all this, Twi. I can hardly blame you." I sighed.

"Yeah, I guess you're right." Twilight sighed before we entered the library. As soon as we entered, we saw Spike reading some books before he took noticed of us.

"Hey guys, you back?" Spike asked, before noticing his friends were...different. "And why are some of you grey?"

"It's sorta a long story." Mason replied with a sigh. Before any of us could say anything else, Fluttershy sneaked up behind Spike and ducked a bucket of cold water all over his body.

"AH! Why did you do that, Fluttershy?!" Spike asked angrily.

Fluttershy returned an evil smirk on her face and replied "Cause you just looked so peaceful."

"I...uh..." Spike looked at her with confusion while he squeezed his tail to get the water out of him. "...Huh?"

Suddenly, we heard a crash as we turned to see Rarity moving 'Tom' inside of the library. 

"Careful, Twilight!" Rarity exclaimed. "You'll ruin his beautiful finish."

"Oh, for the love of..." Twilight grunted.

"We gotta hurry before they start acting up like this." Kaede muttered.

"Yeah..." I nodded before looking over the shelves. "Where is it? Hey, Twilight, do you remember that book that explained about the Elements of Harmony? I mean, it could possibly be there."

"Good point, Ren." Twilight nodded before looking towards Spike. "Spike, where's the reference guide to the Elements of Harmony before somepony does something she'll regret." She muttered as she looked at her friends with an irritating expression. Please, just hang in there Twilight.

"The Elements of Harmony?" Spike asked as he brightened his face and continued "Oh, I know exactly where that book is!" He climbed up a ladder and reached out for a book. "Found it!"

"Good, could you give it to us, please?" Kaede asked politely, which Spike nodded as he was about to hand to her, until Fluttershy pushed her aside and grabbed the book.

"Hah!" She exclaimed with an evil smirk.

"Fluttershy, you better give me that book!" Twilight demanded.

"Keep away!" Fluttershy replied in a sing-song voice as she threw the book over to Applejack.

Applejack caught the book on her nose and began balancing it with a bored expression on her face.

"Applejack, hand over that book." Mason demanded.

"I don't have any book." Applejack answered as she threw it over to Pinkie, who bounced it over to Fluttershy.

"Pinkie!" Twilight scolded. "You guys! Stop it right now!"

This took about five minutes until I was able to grab the book before Fluttershy could get it. I sighed in relief and said "I think this belongs to you Twi."

"Thanks Ren, at least there's somepony else who has a mind." Twilight sighed as I was about to hand it to her until it was covered in a blue aura of magic and floated near to Rarity.

"Mine!" She shouted in glee.

"Hey, we need that!" Kaede exclaimed, starting to get irritated. "Please, give it up!"

"No, but if you want it, I want it!" Rarity replied with an evil smile.

Twilight gritted her teeth and let out a long and strained groan. Oh no, I'm not liking where this is going...

"Give me that book!" Twilight screamed as she began chasing after Rarity. However, I noticed Fluttershy lowering her hooves and grabbed Rarity, lifting her up on the floor, and causing Twilight to crash into 'Tom'. 

"Ugh...where's Rarity?" She asked, shaking her head from the injury.

"Beats me." Applejack shrugged.

"Lies!" Twilight exclaimed before pouncing at Pinkie and Applejack, fighting over for the book.

"Alright! I have had enough!" I shouted as I immediately grabbed the book and exclaimed "Everypony, stop!"

Everyone immediately stopped and looked at me in shock. 

"Huh...that was easier than I thought." I smiled before saying "Now listen, we need to focus if we're going to stop Discord once and for all and then save Carrie and Kodi."

"Oh, who cares about them?" Fluttershy said in a snarky tone, causing me to glare at them. I know she's under hypnosis by Discord, but still....

"I care." Mason narrowed his eyes towards Fluttershy. "My sister is in trouble, and is in the hands of that chaotic fool. Who knows what's happening to her or Kodiak?!"

"Mason's right." I nodded in agreement before looking over the book. "Now, let's open up this bad boy." I slowly opened the book, revealing the six Elements of Harmony.

"The Elements!" Twilight exclaimed in joy as she rushed towards to my side and gaze upon them. "They were here all along! Thanks Ren!"

She hugged me, causing me to smile until I noticed the angry look on Fluttershy. Oh boy, what's up with her now?

"Oh, I see. So now you say I'm the rude one, but you're more ruder than I thought, Twilight Sparkle!" Fluttershy snarled, causing me and Twilight to widened our eyes.

"W-what?" Twilight asked. "What are you even talking about, Fluttershy?"

"Doesn't matter. Hm!" She crossed her arms and blew a raspberry at Twilight, who glared at her back.

"This is great!" Spike smiled. "Now you guys can defeat Discord and put everything back to normal!"

"See everypony? We did it! We found the Elements of Harmony! Together!" Twilight announced with a smile until she noticed the unimpressed looks they were giving her. Me, Mason, and Kaede looked at each other in worried, concern, and anger. Twilight soon noticed this and walked towards them and asked "You don't even care, do you?"

"No!" They all exclaimed in unison.

Twilight sighed in frustration and said "I never thought it would happen. My friends...have turned into complete jerks!"

"Twilight, don't blame them." I assured with a soft smile. "They're under Discord's influence, that's all."

"Whatever!" Twilight yelled. Jeez, I was just trying to help you all out. Unwilling to hear anymore arguments, she began placing each of the elements on the girls. "Necklace! Necklace! Necklace! Necklace! And big crown thingy!" She placed the tiara on herself. "Come on everypony, let's go!" She began walking towards the door until Spike stopped her.

"But Twilight, aren't you missing somepony?"

"Nope." Twilight shook her head. "We've got the liar, the grump, the hoarder, the brute. That just about covers it."

"But what about Rainbow?" I asked in concern. "Surely you didn't forget about her, right?"

As if she answered my question, she placed the Element of Loyalty necklace on me and replied "Well congratulations Ren, you're the new Rainbow Dash!"

"What?!" I exclaimed. "No offense Twi, but I think the one who should be wearing this is Dash! We need to find her!"

"We got no time Ren! We need to hurry in order to stop Discord and his chaotic magic!" Twilight retorted.

"B-but!..."

"Ren, I'm sorry, but we have no choice." Mason spoke up as he crossed his arms and gave me a hard look. "I need to save my sister and get this over with."

"...Alright." I sighed.

"Good! Now let's go and defeat Discord so that we all will never talk to each other again!" Twilight exclaimed, getting all the girls happy as they raced out of the library. Rarity pushed her giant boulder friend out of the door with a smile on her face. I stood there in shock by what Twilight said. She doesn't really mean that...right?

"She didn't say that, did she?" Kaede asked with widened eyes.

"Nope, I heard it." I blinked in surprise.

"We got no time, let's go!" Mason grabbed both me and Kaede's hand and dragged us out of the library. Man, ever since we got back here, we all started acting like enemies instead of friends. Please let all of this end once we defeat Discord, I can't handle anymore fights with my friends.



Later
As we walked through the 'new and improved' Ponyville, as Discord would say, we finally found him. He was sitting in a throne all for himself, and what's worse, he had both Carrie and Kodi trapped in magic bubbles as Kodi kept headbutting his way out of it.

"Carrie!" Mason called for her.

"Kodi!" I called for him as well.

Both Carrie and Kodi noticed us and began happy to see us. "Mason!" Carrie smiled happily.

"Ren! Boy, I'm so glad to see ya!" Kodi wagged his tail in joy.

"Well well well, I see you've finally found the Elements of Harmony." Discord smirked. "How terrifying!" Is he going all dramatic on us in the middle of battle?

"Discord! We've figured out your lame riddle." Twilight responded aggressively. "You're in for it now!"

"I certainly am. You've clearly out-dueled me, and now it's time to meet my fate." Discord placed some red sunglasses and relaxed on his throne. "I'm prepared to be defeated now, ladies. Fire when ready." He snapped his fingers, making a red target appeared on himself.

"Formation, now!" Twilight shouted angrily.

"Eh." The others replied, shrugging and not caring. 

"Twilight, I'm not even sure if this might work." I said nervously.

"Who cares?! Get over here Rainbow Dash!" Twilight called, causing me to sigh. I walked over next to her and glared at Discord, who immediately began laughing at me.

"HA HA HA HA! You're joking, right?! A human...wearing the Element of Harmony?! Oh my, this day just keeps getting better." Discord chuckled.

"Well, that's unexpected..." I muttered, blushing a bit.

Soon, Twilight and the girls began charging their attack as Twilight began rising into the air, along with the girls, but I remained on the ground apparently. Is it working because I'm not moving into the air with them? I even noticed Discord lowered his sunglasses in surprised as he witnessed the bright light emerge from them.

"Hey! Maybe it'll work!" Kaede smiled happily. Yeah, could it be our chance to beat Discord? Well...actually, no. Just about as the Elements looked as if they were going to work, the bright light suddenly disappeared and they all fell towards the ground.

"What's going on? Why didn't it work?" Twilight questioned.

"Mine's working." Applejack lied. "There must be something wrong with yours."

"I hate the Elements of Harmony!" Pinkie exclaimed, throwing it into the ground.

"Hmph!" Fluttershy threw her necklace away as well. "Garbage."

Rarity immediately rushed over to Fluttershy's necklace when it landed on the floor as she exclaimed "MINE!"

"Sorry, Twilight." I muttered, taking the necklace off. "I told you, it won't work." I sighed sadly until I was tripped by none other than Fluttershy.

"Ow..." I muttered, rubbing my aching back. 

"Oops. Sorry...Rainbow Crash!" She said mockingly as she began laughing at me. I widened my eyes to see this Fluttershy. What happened to the nice friend I used to have? Where...did she go?

"Brave, everypony, bravo!" Discord clapped his hands as he walked towards us. "Harmony in Equestria is officially dead. Discord rules, Celestria drools."

"No..." I muttered in shock.

"Hey! Let me out of here!" Carrie shouted, banging on the magic bubble.

"Ooh, sorry little missy, but I'm afraid you'll be staying with me for a while." Discord chuckled.

"Ren! Help us!" Kodi begged. 

"Hang on tight boy, I'm gonna save you!" I shouted back.

"Ugh! It's all your fault it didn't work!" Pinkie announced angrily.

"Who are you even talking to?" Mason asked in annoyance.

"Any of you! All of you! I'm outta here!" Pinkie shouted before bouncing away.

"Pinkie, wait!" I tried calling her, but she didn't respond nor came back.

"I'm out of here!" Fluttershy added as she took her leave. No, Fluttershy!

"I better go, too. I've got new better friends waiting for me at the farm." Applejack walked out. Rarity was too busy dragging the giant boulder away from us.

"W-wait, no!" Kaede called for them. "Come back!"

"F-F-FINE!" Twilight yelled. "Leave! See if I care! I don't need you guys either! With friends like you, who needs...enemies..." Twilight lowered her head and to our surprise and shock, she began losing color and turned grey, letting out a tear in the process.

"Twilight!" I ran towards her and comforted her. "Please Twilight, not you too!"

"Leave me alone, Ren...I told you before, I don't need friends....just...go..." With that, Twilight pushed me aside and slowly began leaving. I remained in shock and soon began letting out tears.

"No..." I muttered as I fell into my knees. Kaede covered her mouth and tried to held back her tears while Mason darkened his face while gritting his teeth.

"Oh, I feel so bad for you humans." Huh? I glanced towards Discord with a smirk on his face. "So sad to see your own friends to just turned away. All because they're suffering my sanity."

"Suffering your sanity?" Kaede questioned.

"That's right. I tricked your pony friends to fall under my spell to become the opposite of who they are. The chaotic magic I used are made from the negative emotions I possess, and they're now suffering on how I suffered. And now, you guys are suffering the same pain and despair I felt."

"What? What do you mean? What are you even talking about?" I asked, raising a brow before wiping my tears. 

"So...you really don't remember? Looks like it did work after all..." Discord muttered with an evil smirk.

"Enough of this! I'm sick of tired of this!" Mason pushed me aside and grab ahold of his bamboo stick. "Give me back Carrie or face my bamboo pole!"

"Really? You really are gonna so far to hurt me, Mr. Human tool?" Discord smirked, causing Mason to flinch and sweat nervously.

"Mason...what's going on?" I asked.

"I-I..." Mason darkened his face, unable to answer my question.

"Mason!" We all looked up to Carrie as she looked at her brother with a soft smile. "It's okay...they need to tell the truth."

"Carrie...." Mason clutched his fist as his expression turned into a depressed one.

"Well if you must know..." Discord turned with us with an evil looking expression. "Your friend here is a bodyguard owned by a royal family!"

"Ah...ah!" Mason choked, unable to retort that. What?! H-he's a...what?!

"Mason...is this true?" Kaede covered her mouth in shock. Mason looked at us, seeing the fear in our eyes as he sighed and responded "I'm sorry...I'm sorry that I couldn't tell you guys sooner enough. I should have told you all back at Canterlot, but...I was afraid."

"Mason..." I sighed sadly. I don't believe it...our own friend...is a bodyguard from a royal family, along with Carrie? What's even going on anymore?

"I'm such a coward...I can't believe it..." Mason dropped to his knees with a shocked and sad expression on his face.

"Please big brother, don't feel bad! I know it wasn't your fault!" Carrie said, making a glare towards Discord, who blew a raspberry back at her.

"What's the point? I let you all down..." Mason responded, darkening his face. I clutched my fist and said "No, it's not your fault Mason!"

"Huh?" Mason looked at me in confusion.

"I don't care if what Discord said about you is true, you're still our best friend." I smiled happily. "Besides, even if I did knew the truth, I would still think of you as a friend, no...more like a brother."

"Ren..." Mason looked at me in shock before smiling softly. "You may be an idiot, but you know how to say the right things."

I sweat-dropped a little and replied "W-well...I guess I'll take your word, at least."

"Ugh...I hate emotional scenes." Discord sighed. "Besides, what can you do? You already lost most of your Hacking Gun's powers', Ponyville has been transformed into my beautiful capital chaos of the world, and now your pony friends are gone. What can you do?"

"I-I find a way to bring them back! And I'm also gonna save both Kodi and Carrie!" I exclaimed in determination before noticing the remaining Elements of Harmony on the ground. I quickly picked them up and put them in my pockets before turning back to Discord. "Say what you want Discord! There's no way we'll ever let you take over Equestria nor hurt our friends!"

"You tell him, Ren!" Kodi encouraged me.

"He's right." Mason got back up with a serious expression on his face as he took out his bamboo stick. "Ren, Kaede, you two need to find Twilight and the others and turn them back to normal."

"Huh? What about you Mason?" Kaede asked in concern.

"Don't worry, I'll be fine. I have something to take care of..." Mason glared at Discord, who waved at him with a smirk. "Just go!"

"But Mason-"

"You got it Mason!" I nodded in agreement with a smirk on my face.

"Ren?!" Kaede exclaimed in shock.

"We gotta have faith in him, Kaede. I mean, we can't just leave him and not do anything!" I assured with a confident grin. "After all, I know he can do it."

"...Alright, let's go." Kaede nodded in agreement.

"Alright, you head to Twilight's library and try to turn her back to normal. I'll go and find Fluttershy and the others!" I explained, which she nodded as we began to make our way to find our lost friends. Before I left, I looked back at Mason and said "Oh, and Mason?"

"Huh?" He turned back to me with confusion.

"...Good luck dude." I smiled, which he smiled back and nodded. I then made my way towards my first destination to bring back my friends: Fluttershy.



It was sorta hard to search the place, but I was able to find her cottage. Man, it's hard now that Ponyville is a wretched wasteland...or is it Wonderland? Man, I don't know anymore. I was about to knock until I saw the door slowly opened, revealing a destroyed living room.

"Whoa...what happened here?" I wondered. I stepped inside and looked around, wanting to make sure that Fluttershy might be in here. That's when I heard her.

"Well well well....if it isn't Looney?" I slowly turned around to see Fluttershy in her kitchen, with a book in her hands. She took a photo and ripped it, and the worse part is that it's a picture me, and the rest of my friends.

"Flutters! What are you doing?!" I asked in shock. 

"What does it look like? I'm getting rid of everything that reeks from those loser ponies! Mostly at you!" She pointed her hoof straight at me, much to my surprise.

"Hold on...mostly me? But why?" I asked hesitantly.

"Why? WHY?!" Fluttershy yelled. "You never understood or saw anything that noticed about my feelings!? Did everything we done so far meant nothing to you?! Do you like...Twilight more than me?!" Fluttershy gritted her teeth in anger.

"But...I like all of you as my friends." I shrugged with a weak grin.

"You idiot!" She pushed me on the ground and looked at me angrily. "I meant love! I love you, you idiot! I'm in love with you!"

"L-l-love?!" I exclaimed in shock. You mean...she like LIKE me?...Oh...crap-baskets....

"That's right! Ever since we were starting to get along with those stupid ponies, I started developing some of these stupid feelings in my heart! I thought you would soon noticed it, but ever since Discord showed me the truth, I realized that you never loved me! Discord also showed me that Twilight also had a crush on you! You never loved me in the very first place! What do you have to say about that?!"

I just sat there on the ground, speechless by all this. Fluttershy...has a crush on me? Along with Twilight? Two ponies...falling in love with a human? I don't believe it...how can I be so blind?

"Fluttershy...I'm so sorry." I muttered sadly. "I...I never knew that."

"Oh, sure you did..." Fluttershy crossed her hooves and looked away from me.

"Fluttershy, I'm serious." I said with a weak grin before sighing "Truth be told, I...really don't know much about love."

"Wow, that's a shocker." I could feel that she's rolling her eyes at me, isn't she? Well, I sorta deserve that. 

"It's the truth. I know I may be an expert on video games, but to be honest with ya, I'm terrible with romance games or dating simulators. I'm sorta not very good to understand love, and it's very difficult. But sometimes, I even tried to understand it, but fail to. I'm sorry if I never understood your feelings." I said sadly before softly smiling and showing her the flowery bracelet she made for me earlier. "You see this bracelet?"

"Yeah?" She asked in a snarky tone.

"Do you know who made this?"

"Who? Your mama?" Okay, well that was rude.

"No Fluttershy, this was made from you. You gave this to me because I thought it was a symbol of our friendship, but after what you said, I realized this was a symbol of both our friendship and...love." I smiled happily before I bent down towards Fluttershy's height.

"Oh please, like an idiot, which you are, would know." Fluttershy scoffed.

"No...I mean it." I said, feeling sad and at the verge of tears. "You're my best friend, and I should've understood your feelings towards me.  I'm sorry..."

"Hmph!...." Fluttershy looking away but noticed my sadness. That's when I noticed that she was...frowning. Huh? Why is she doing that? I thought Discord's magic was too powerful for even them to control. "A-Are you e-even sure?"

"Huh?" I asked myself. Is...Is Fluttershy coming back? I smiled softly and replied "O-of course, well I'm now knowing this, but still...I do care about you, and the others. I want the old Fluttershy back. I want everyone back to me." 

Me and Fluttershy looked at each other, and I didn't see cruelty, anger, evil, or any like that. I saw...her true self from her grey area, and that's not all. I don't know why, but something inside is telling me something. I don't what what is it, but...it wants me to do it.

"R-Ren..." She muttered as she saw my eyes and closed them before moving forward towards me. Is this? I think I'm beginning to understand now...

I closed my eyes and moved towards her, and that's when it happened. Our lips made contact with each other, and I felt a great flash emerged around us. The moment as I opened my eyes, I finally saw her...her true self. She wasn't grey anymore, she was back being in full color.

"R-Ren! You're here!" Fluttershy immediately hugged me, causing me to hug her back. "I'm so sorry for what I said! I didn't know why, but all those nasty things I said! I-I-I didn't really-"

"Hey, hey, it's okay Flutters, it doesn't matter. What matter is that you're back." I assured with a grin. 

"Ren..." Fluttershy blushed at me. You know, it felt weird. Putting our mouths together like that. Is that what a kiss supposed to be? Man, I need help on researching love. Maybe watching romantic comedies? Nah, I heard my brother once said that nobody likes those kind of things since...ever.

Suddenly, I felt something shaky in my pants as I looked down to see it was in my pockets. I took it and saw it was the Element of Kindness as it was glowing. 

"Huh? Could this be the reason why you were changed back?" I wondered. It seems like this Element was...trying to tell me something. That's when I saw my Hacking Gun on the floor, must've fell off when Fluttershy pushed me when she was still in her evil self.

"Do you think it's being connected by the Element of Harmony?" Fluttershy asked.

"Only one way to find out." I said as I grabbed my Hacking Gun, and once so, the Element of Kindness flashed, it's power being absorbed into the Hacking Gun. "Whoa..." I muttered as I looked at my Hacking Gun in amazement. That's when I noticed that one of the dials were returning. 

"Hey, what just happened?" Fluttershy wondered as she picked up her Element of Kindness from the ground. "What was that big flash just a minute ago?"

"I don't know, but it seemed to not only turn you back, but restore the Hacking Gun's powers'. Look." I showed it to her, and she gasped upon seeing one of the dials returning. Just let you all know, it was 'Dance' that returned.

"Wow! That's amazing!" Fluttershy gasped. "Do you think it might work with the others?"

"Yeah, I'm positive." I nodded before asking "Wait, you remember what happened earlier?"

"Yeah, I saw everything and all those mean things I said and did. I didn't mean that, but I couldn't control myself." Couldn't control yourself? So there's still in there after all. 

"Wait...then what happened just now..." I widened my eyes and looked at her in shock. Fluttershy blushed and glanced away when I asked that. Well, that's sorta embarrassing.

"W-well anyway, let's go find the others quickly!" Fluttershy exclaimed, which I nodded as we were about to race out of the house until she said "Oh, and Ren."

"Yeah?" I asked.

"I'll help teach you about love, and thanks for understanding my feelings." Fluttershy smiled at me, which made me smile back at her. 

"Got it, Flutters." I nodded as we raced out of her home and tried to go find the others. Let's head back to the Golden Oaks Library and see if Kaede was doing well trying to help Twilight back.



Me and Flutters finally got back to the Golden Oaks Library, seeing it was the only place not affected by Discord's magic and all, which I'm realizing right now, but anywho, we got inside and became surprised to see a bunch of scrolls all over the ground.

"What happened here?" I wondered myself.

"Ugh...help me Ren..." I heard Spike muttered as he came out of a pile of scrolls and started barfing up more. "I can't take it anymore...Bleh!" He spit out a scroll, which hit my face.

"Ow!" I yelped. That's gonna leave a mark.

"Ren, are you alright?" Fluttershy asked me in concern. 

"Y-yeah, I'm fine." I nodded, rubbing my aching head.

"Ren! There you are!" We turned to see Kaede and...

"Twilight?!" Me and Fluttershy exclaimed in shock. It was her, fully back in her color with her bright smile.

"Ren! Fluttershy?! What are you two doing here?!" Twilight asked in shock.

"And how did Fluttershy regain her color?!" Kaede added.

"That's what I wanna know too!" I asked.

"Yeah, me too!...If you don't mind me asking." Fluttershy softly smiled.

"Well, it's sorta a long story..." Kaede sighed before explaining "See, right after we split up and went to help bring back our friends..."



Flashback
Kaede was running as fast as she could towards back to the Golden Oaks Library. Kaede thought that Twilight might've headed back there to be left alone in peace or so The moment she arrived, Kaede gasped in shock upon seeing a mountain full of scrolls filled the living room, and Spike was next to him, rubbing his stomach in pain.

"Spike?! What's going on? And why is there so many scrolls in here?" Kaede asked in concern.

"Uhh...these are messages from Princess Celestia...Bleh!" Spike spat out another scroll, heading straight for Kaede. She immediately dodged it before it hit her face as she looked back Spike as he continued "She kept sending all of Twilight's mesages, every reply of her friendship reports, but it hurts. Make it stop! Bleh!"

Spike spit out another scroll, only this time, it fell right below my feet. Curious about it, Kaede picked it up and read through it as she widened her eyes upon reading it.

"Princess Celestia, this is beautiful. I need to show it to Twilight immediately!" Kaede exclaimed. "Where is she?!"

"S-she's up in her room..." Spike answered, letting out another groan. Kaede ran upstairs before looking back at Spike and said "Thanks and...I hope you'll feel better."

Kaede headed straight for Twilight's room and knocked on her door, but the door wasn't locked as it was slowly opened. Kaede let out a soft gasp before opening it, seeing Twilight, still grey and she was packing some things in her suitcase.

"Twilight!" Kaede called for her as she became relieved to finally found her. "I'm so glad to finally found you!"

Twilight glanced at her before continuing to pack her books into her suitcase, which Kaede noticed.

"W-what's all this? What are you doing?" Kaede asked.

"What does it look like? I'm packing." Twilight replied bluntly, not caring at all.

"Huh? Packing? For what?" Kaede asked in worried before letting out a gasp in realization. "Y-you're leaving?! But why?!"

"Why? It's simple. I rather go back to Canterlot, where its peaceful than this psychotic place I'm living." Twilight replied, packing more of her stuff into the trunk.

"But Twilight, you can't! Your friends-"

"What friends? Last I check, they abandoned me for stupid reasons. They don't want to be my friends. We're enemies..." Twilight sighed as she finished packing and turned to the door. "Sorry Kaede, but I'm finished. I rather go back to Canterlot and be left alone with my books forever."

"No!" Kaede yelled, blocking the door. "I won't let you!"

"Just get out of the way, Kaede." Twilight sighed in annoyance. "I rather not waste my time with you!"

"Twilight, I understand your angry at what they did earlier, but it was Discord! He tricked them and influenced them with his magic. It's not their faults why they can't control themselves." Kaede explained.

"Yeah, right. You're just saying that to make me stay." Twilight rolled her eyes.

"No, I'm serious! They do care for you, it's just that..."

"Just what exactly?"

"Twilight...do you remember the times we had here?" I asked, causing Twilight to raise a brow.

"And what's that exactly?" Twilight asked bluntly.

"Twilight, the times we had together were amazing. Sure I only met you guys for a short while, but spending time with you all was truly amazing. I thought of myself as someone who can't do anything to help, but I realize that I can try ever since Pinkie's birthday party."

"And your point exactly?"

"Well...I think you should read this." I handed her the scroll, which she took from her magic as she floated it towards her as she began reading it.

"What? These are letters I written to the princess since I've lived in Ponyville. But why would she send them back?" Twilight wondered, acting surprise.

"It's because she cares for you, I care for you. After all, that's what friends do. They care for each other and always try to help to cheer each other help." I smiled happily as Twilight looked at me in amazement before looking back at the letter. She cleared her throat and began reading it.


"Friendship is a wondrous and powerful thing
And like the path cut through the orchard, there will always be a way through.
The best thing to do is stay true to yourself.
Everypony has a special magical connection with her friends. Maybe even before she's met them."
.

Twilight began tearing up with a smile, and soon, Kaede noticed the Element of Magic crown started shining as it was laying on Twilight's bed and soon, Twilight was restored back to normal.

"K-Kaede!" Twilight called for her with a smile on her face.

"Twilight! You're back to normal!" Kaede hugged Twilight as they hugged each other, relieved to see that Twilight was back to normal. "I thought I lost you for good!"

"Yeah, but both your words and the princess's letter made me realize that I had such a great connection with you, Ren, and the others..." Twilight smiled, wiping away her tears before gasping. "Of course! This was Discord's plan all along!"

"His plan?" Kaede wondered.

"Of course! He wanted us all to turn against each other because he knows how powerful our friendships are, and he's trying to keep us from seeing it." Twilight explained.

"So that was his plan...actually, speaking about Discord, he told us that his magic were made from negative emotions and that you guys were suffering his sanity." Kaede said, remembering Discord's words.

"What? What does he mean by that?" Twilight wondered until she and Kaede noticed that the Element of Magic started glowing. "Now what's up with this?" 

"I don't know..." Kaede shrugged as she picked up the Element of Magic by her hand and looked at it. "Wow...it feels so warm..."

"Really? That's new." Twilight blinked in surprise until they both heard a door opening downstairs. "Great, now what?

"Maybe that was Spike? Come on, let's go check it out." Kaede asked herself as they left the room as Kaede held the Element of Magic crown in her hands as it continued to glow.

Flashback Ended



"And that's when we encountered you two just now." Kaede finished telling us her story. 

"Whoa...so you were able to bring Twilight back to the light!" I exclaimed with a smile. "That's amazing Kaede!"

"Well, I didn't do that much. Just encouraged her, that's all." Kaede rubbed her cheek in embarrassment.

"Yes, and Ren..." Twilight looked at me with a sad smile on her face. "I'm sorry for doubting you."

"Hey, it's okay. We're just glad to have the old you back." I replied with a soft smile.

"Thanks, and Fluttershy..." Twilight turned to Fluttershy, who looked at her with worried. "...I understand if you like Ren more than I do."

"Wait what?" Me and Fluttershy asked in unison, confused on what she meant. Don't tell me that...

"When I was walking back home back when I lost all hope, Discord came to me and showed me that Fluttershy had a massive crush on you Ren." Twilight answered, which made Fluttershy blushed madly. Did Fluttershy seriously liked me that much?! "It made me hurt more badly, but after Kaede cheered me up, I realize that I couldn't change who we are, so I don't mind if Fluttershy likes you Ren. Besides, I never put up much thought of dating or even have a crush on you than Fluttershy. I was embarrassed by how much you keep encouraging us whenever we're in big trouble." 

"I see..." I chuckled nervously while blushing a little. Well, this might be embarrassing to tell her what happened earlier. Well, that's embarrassing.

"Yeah, I think it's best if we talk about another time." Fluttershy chuckled nervously before clearing her throat. "Shouldn't we need to find our other friends and turn them back to normal?"

"You're right, let's go." Twilight nodded until we saw another glow coming out of Kaede's sweater pockets. 

"Huh?" Kaede took a crown out of her pockets, which I realized that it was the Element of Magic crown. "Now what's wrong with it?"

Suddenly, it let out a bright flash as the Element of Magic's went into my Hacking Gun, restoring more of it's power and returning 'Detect' back on it. 

"Hey! One of my truth bullets on the Hacking Gun came back to me!" I exclaimed in both shock and joy. 

"It happened the same time when you turned me back to normal, Ren." Fluttershy nodded in agreement. "The Element of Kindness's magic was also sucked into the gun, and brought back one of your truth bullets as well."

"Okay, but why's that?" Kaede asked, which I shrugged.

"Well, whatever the reason is, we'll figure that out later. In the meantime, we need to find the others and restore them back to normal. Ren, where are the Elements of Harmony?" Twilight asked me.

"There inside my pockets." I said, showing her the remaining Elements of Harmony. 

"Alright! Come on everypony! Let's go save our friends!" Twilight declared, which we nodded and ran out of the house. Oh wait, maybe we should go and check up on Spike. You know, to see if he's alright...Nah, I'm sure he's okay.



We began searching for our friends in hopes to restore them back to normal. As we kept running, I noticed that one of the Elements started glowing. Wait, this is the Element of Honesty, so is it trying to tell me something? 

"Guys look! It's Sweet Apple Acres!" Kaede pointed out as we saw the farm, and everything was going out of control. Big Macintosh was acting like a dog, some old granny pony is just rocking her chair and sleeping, totally oblivious to the events occurring out here! 

"Wow, it's really chaotic, eh?" I said, blinking in surprise. 

"Look! There's Applejack!" Twilight pointed over to the grey farm pony as she was just lazying about on a nearby apple tree.

"Applejack!" I called for her as we ran straight towards her. "Applejack! There you are, so glad to see you!"

"Well I'm glad to see ya too." She said in full sarcasm. "Where you guys when I needed ya? Discord won because of ya!"

"...I'm not sure whether that a lie or an insult." Fluttershy said, sweat-dropping a little. Suddenly, I felt the Element of Honesty shining more, reacting strongly towards my Hacking Gun. Like it's telling me to use it on my Hacking Gun straight at Applejack.

"Applejack, you need to snap out of it! You need to stop lying!" Kaede exclaimed.

"Kaede's right! Remember us!" Twilight agreed.

"I am fine! I do remember you all!" Applejack exclaimed in anger. While they were talking, I looked between the Element of Honesty and my Hacking Gun as the magic coming from the necklace started going into my Hacking Gun. I think I know what it's trying to tell me to do.

"Please Applejack, we're trying to help you." Fluttershy spoke up with a soft smile.

"Oh please, like I would-GAH!" Applejack backwards as she was hit by an orange blast, which came out of my Hacking Gun. Everypony turned to me in shock as they saw me holding the gun as I expressed a surprise expression as well.

"Ren! Why did you do that?!" Kaede exclaimed in anger.

"I-It wasn't my fault! I noticed that one of the Elements of Harmony kept reacting towards my Hacking Gun and it just sorta took a shot! I swear!" I exclaimed in shock. Suddenly, we all took a notice of Applejack and saw her color being restored and slowly started to wake up.

"W-what?" She looked at us before gasping in shock. "Twilight! Kaede! Ren! Fluttershy! Boy am I glad to see all of ya!" Applejack exclaimed, happy to see us as she gave us a big hug. 

"I-It worked?!" Twilight widened her eyes in shock.

"I'm so sorry for what I said! I saw a vision of us feuding and fighting! I couldn't face the truth, so I started telling lies. Can you all ever forgive me?" Applejack explained with a sad look.

"Applejack..." I spoke up with a soft grin. "I understand if you were scared of telling us the truth because it might involve us fighting and ending our friendship, but even so, lying will only make things worse than before. It takes them to fully grasp on the truth and to accept it, and once so, we'll understand it and try to change." 

Everypony looked at me in shock while I rubbed my cheek in embarrassment and said "D-did I say something wrong?"

"Nothing, just surprised to hear some encouraging words, Renny boy." Applejack grinned.

"Yeah, nice advice Ren." Kaede complimented.

"Yeah, but still..." Twilight glanced towards my Hacking Gun. "Did you say the moment the Element of Honesty's magic started to go into your Hacking Gun, it shot an orange blast straight towards Applejack?"

"Yeah?" I nodded with a confused look on my face. Twilight started rubbing her chin in thought and began realizing something.

"Of course! Maybe once your Hacking Gun starts to absorb one of the Elements of Harmony's magic, it shoots some kind of energy towards one of our friends who fallen into Discord's influence, and restored them back to normal!" Twilight concluded with a smile.

"Not only that...look!" Fluttershy pointed towards my Hacking Gun as one of the truth bullets dial started appeared again, and this time, it was 'Knock-back' that came back. 

"And it also seems to restore more of the Hacking Gun's powers." Kaede added.

"But wait, why didn't it work before when I restored Fluttershy or when Kaede helped restore Twilight? I didn't use it before back then." I asked with a raised brow.

"That, I wonder too..." Twilight rubbed her chin in thought before asking "Wait, how did you restore Fluttershy back to normal then?"

Me and Fluttershy looked at each other before turning away and blushing.

"I-I think its best if we answer that another time, Twilight..." Fluttershy answered, feeling embarrassed. Kaede, Twilight, and Applejack raised their brows towards us in confusion.

"Riiight..." Applejack spoke up before saying "Anywho, we'll figure that out later! Right now, we need to get the others back!"

We all nodded before heading over to find more of our other friends!



We arrived to the east side of Ponyville, only to find Rarity with her boulder, 'Tom', as she began mothering it, which was sorta messed up and creepy.

"R-Rarity?! Applejack exclaimed in shock. "What in tarnation do ya think you're doing?!"

"What does it look like?! I'm nursing my beloved 'Tom'! Now back off before I get serious!" Rarity hissed at us.

"Ooookay...." Twilight backed away a little before turning to me. "Ren, do you think you could turn her back to normal by using your Hacking Gun?"

"Way ahead of ya, Twi." I nodded before holding both my Hacking Gun and the Element of Generosity in my hands. Suddenly, the Element of Generosity began doing its work by letting its magic flow through my Hacking Gun, before letting out a purple energy beam shoot straight towards Rarity, bringing her back to her sense and restore her color. Not only that, but another truth bullet came back to my Hacking Gun, restoring 'Paralyze'.

"Huh...that was easy." Fluttershy said, blinking in surprise. Rarity shook her head before looking around for her surroundings, seeing us and 'Tom'.

"...Let us never speak of this again." Rarity spoke up, moving away from the giant boulder and walking towards us.

"Oh trust us, you don't know how much we missed you, Rares." Kaede sighed.

"Yes, sorry for my rudeness." Rarity nodded. "So...what did I missed?"

"We'll explain along the way." Twilight said with a serious expression. "Right now, we need to go and look for the others!"

"Oh...um...okay?" Rarity raised a brow as we headed out and looked for two more of our friends.



We finally managed to find Pinkie Pie, who was yelling at some inanimate objects. We looked at her weirdly and blank stares for her yelling at something that won't talk back.

"....Ren?" Kaede turned to me.

"Yeah...I'm already on it." I said, taking out the Element of Laughter out of my pockets and allowed its magic to flow into my Hacking Gun, before letting a light blue energy beam shot towards Pinkie Pie, restoring her color and her senses. 

In a few seconds, she started to let out a laugh and exclaimed "Wow! Can you all believe it?! I was grey! How hilarious is that?!"

We all let out a sigh of relief to finally see Pinkie back to her old self, and I also noticed that my truth bullet 'Burn' came back to my Hacking Gun.

"Well, at least we got Pinkie Pie back." Fluttershy softly smiled.

"So what happened?! Where's Dashy, Masey, Carrie, and Kodi?!" Pinkie asked, appearing behind Kaede, who yelped in surprise.

"Actually yeah, where are those four as a matter of fact?" Twilight asked me.

"Mason said he went to go after Discord and Carrie and Kodi were captured by Discord." I answered, much to everypony's shock.

"What?!" They all cried out.

"Why in Equestria would you let him do that?!" Twilight exclaimed.

"I tried to stop him, but he told us that he can handle it. Besides, he seemed really determine to stop Discord and not let him harm his sister, that I can understand." I sighed.

"Well either way, we gotta hurry and find Rainbow Dash!" Applejack said in a worried tone.

"But where could she even be? She could be anywhere!" Kaede exclaimed.

"Well, we don't have to worry about that anymore, Kaede!" Pinkie assured.

"Huh? Why's that?" Kaede asked.

"Because she's right over there!" Pinkie pointed upwards to the sky, and that's when we saw a familiar pony tail who was sitting up on a cloud.

"Rainbow Dash!" We all cried in surprise and relief.

"Oh, hey guys. What's up?" She asked in a not-so-caring tone.

"We've been looking everywhere for you!" Twilight yelled.

"That's nice." She replied bluntly.

"Discord's still on the loose! We need you to help us defeat him with your element, Loyalty!"

"Pfft! Loyalty, schmoyalty! Have you guys seen Ponyville? It's a disaster! I'm staying here in Cloudsdale where everything's awesome!"

I couldn't help but narrowed my eyes at her. That's not the Rainbow Dash I know! She's the one who would never leave us behind nor Ponyville behind! We gotta change her back right now!

"How in Equestria can she think that tiny patch of clouds is Cloudsdale?" Rarity wondered.

"The same way he got you to think that cheap rock was a bona fide diamond." Applejack said in a smug grin.

Rarity looked at her, fuming with anger and exclaimed "I thought we agreed never to speak of that again!"

"Well, time for plan B." I said, taking out the Element of Loyalty out of my pockets and let its magic flow through the Hacking Gun before shooting a red beam of energy towards where Rainbow Dash. It not only shot out the cloud she was sitting on, but on her as well, as she was electrified before falling into a nearby bush. 

Everyone looked at me with odd and weird looks as I shrugged and said "What? She asked for it."

"Uhhh...." We turned to see Rainbow Dash as her color was restored and was back to normal, along with the final truth bullet on my Hacking Gun, 'Link'. Yep, that's right. I managed to gain all of them back. "What the? AH! What's going on?! Where are the Elements?! Did we stop Discord?!"

We all became excited and gave her a big hug, relieved to have the whole gang back together.

"We're so glad to have you back, Dash." I said happily. 

"Uhh...thanks?" Rainbow asked, still confused about all this. "Seriously though? What the heck is going on?"

"It's a long story, but right now..." Twilight made a serious and confident smile. "We got a spirit of chaos and disharmony to stop."

"You took the words right out of my mouth, Twi." I smirked as we began to make our way towards Discord. Mason, you better hang on tight because we're coming.



Meanwhile
Mason's POV

Ha...ha...ha...how could he be this powerful? Back when Ren and Kaede went and tried to get our friends back to normal, I remained back here, fighting off Discord to save both my sister and Ren's pet dog. 

I don't know, but for a craze chaos maniac of a villain, he's just too powerful! I just don't believe it! 

I was heavenly wounded from all his attacks as I fell onto my knees and looked to see Discord laughing as he blew some smoke coming out of his hands. Carrie was in tears while Kodi kept barking angrily towards Discord.

"You big meanie! You'll pay for this!" Kodi cried out.

"Oh please, who cares about him?" Discord shrugged with a smirk on his face. "He's nothing but a tool owned by a royal family."

"That's not true!" I heard my sister yelled. "He's not a tool! He's my big brother and a hero to my big sis!"

"Big sis? Oh right, you thought of Elena as a big sister. So stupid." Discord sighed. "It's quite ironic really. You were taken as a little princess into the royal family while your brother was made into a bodyguard so that he could be used by your royal family, named Princess Elena, so that she could be used him for her own purposes and for protection for herself because she was a coward."

That bastard! How dare he talk about her like that?! I tried to get back up, but Discord snaps his fingers, making some weight bars to fall on my back, causing me to struggle to get back up. 

"My brother isn't a tool! Elena would never call him that nor use him! She loved my big brother no matter what! She even thought of me as a little sister!" Carrie exclaimed.

"Well, that's too bad. Now you know how I feel. How does it feel to be hopeless, despair, and...the pain that I've suffered." Discord smirked.

"W-what?" I asked, falling onto my back. 

"Oh, you're so useless Mason. You proclaim that you can fight against me, but all you're doing is embarrassing yourself. Where's your hope now?" Discord asked rhetorically. 

Suddenly, two beams of energy came out of nowhere and broke out of Carrie and Kodiak's prison. Those two landed on their feet and became surprised that they were free, but as more surprise than Discord himself.

"W-what?!" Discord exclaimed in shock.

"Discord!" I slowly turned around to see Ren, Kaede, Twilight, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity coming towards me and removing the stuff off my back. "That's far enough!" Twilight exclaimed in anger as Ren and Applejack helped me out.

"M-Mason! You alright?!" Ren asked me in concern.

"Y-yeah, thank god you're here..." I smirked at him before letting out a cough.

"Hang on tight Mason! We're gonna deal with this fella!" Applejack assured before glaring towards Discord.

"Big brother!" 

"Ren!" Huh? I was immediately hugged by my little sister as she hugged me tight. 

"Mason! Y-you're alright! I-I-I...*sob*!" Carrie started crying, both sad and happy that I was okay, but badly injured from the fight I had with Discord. I smiled softly and hugged her back.

"Ren! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" I noticed Kodiak jumping onto Ren's face, causing him to fall on the ground, and started licking him. 

"Kodi, thanks for the face-licks pal, but I think that's enough!" Ren laughed. It's nice to see him get along, and so happy.

"Impossible?! How on Equestria could you?!" Discord widened his eyes in shock.

"It was all thanks to Ren, Mason, and Kaede for helping us. If it wasn't for Ren and Kaede for encouraging me and the rest of our friends to realize that we all can accept who we are, we wouldn't be here right now. Also for Mason for stalling more time to round us up and trying to defeat you!" Twilight explained.

"That's right!" Rainbow Dash crossed her hooves with a smirk on her muzzle. "And it's time to put you in your place!"

"Oh please, even if you're all back to normal, you'll still fail. The Elements of Harmony will never work since you all never understood friendship." Discord sighed before lying on his throne. "But I'll give you one chance. Go on, I'm waiting, and I don't like to be bored."

"Oh yeah? We'll see about that!" Kaede exclaimed before muttering "I hope..."

"You know Discord, you should never underestimate us." Ren smirked at him, causing Discord to look at him with confusion.

"What? What's that supposed to mean?" Discord asked.

"You think friendship is not a big deal, but you're wrong. Friendship is a big deal. It connects us all, it helps us from the hard times, and makes us grow closer than before. It even makes us more than friends, but family!"

Ren....do you really mean that?

"That's right!" Twilight nodded with a confident grin. "We've learned that friendship isn't always easy, but there's no doubt it's worth fighting for!"

"Ugh, gag." Discord waved it off. "You're now starting to bore me...Oh well, at least I can do is fight back at least." He snapped his fingers as everyone looked up to see a big storm filled with chaos approaching towards us.

"Jeez, this guy is such a jerk." Kodi muttered.

"Ren, Twilight, Kaede, everyone..." I spoke up, gaining their attention. "Take down this crazy fool for me, will ya?"

"Don't worry Mason, we got this!" Ren nodded before turning to his pet dog, my sister, and Kaede. "Hey, can you three watch Mason for us? I think its time to put Discord in his place."

"You got it, Ren!" Kaede nodded.

"Yeah! Leave it to me!" Carrie added.

"Good luck, pal!" Kodi agreed.

Soon, Ren and Applejack put me on the ground, but Kaede and Carrie helped me as Ren and our pony friends walked towards Discord, ready to finish him off.

"All right everypony. Let's show what friendship can do!" Twilight declared.

"Wait-wait-wait!" Pinkie called before zipping towards a pink cloud and started slurping the chocolate milk out of it.

"Seriously Pinkie?!" Ren exclaimed in deadpan expression. 

"Sorry, couldn't help myself!" Pinkie chuckled before zipping back towards them. "Okay! Now I'm ready!"

Soon, the crown and the necklaces that Twilight and her friends were wearing started to glow as they raised into the air, along with Ren as he grabbed his Hacking Gun and aimed it at Discord. 

"It's time to finish this!" Ren yelled as his Hacking Gun started to glow with rainbow color. 

"Take this!" Discord shouted as he launched his storm of chaos towards our friends, but unfortunately, Ren and the girls shot a powerful beam towards the storm, completely destroying it. "W-what?!"

"Sorry Discord, but it's time for you to retire!" Ren smirked as Ren fully charged his Hacking Gun again, along with the mares as they fully charged the power of the Elements of Harmony and together, shot a powerful beam of a rainbow towards Discord.

"FRIENDSHIP LIVES ON!" They all shouted as the rainbow beam covered Discord as he slowly began turning into stone.

"No...No....NOOOOOOOOO!" Discord screamed before he was encased inside the rainbow. I smiled softly before feeling like my conscious shutting down.

You done good Ren....you done good....



Ren's POV
Yes! Yes! Yes! We did it! Taste the rainbow, Discord! After shooting our most powerful attack at Discord, we slowly dropped to the ground and saw Discord, who was once again back being a statue as it laid on the ground with a shocked expression on his face.

"We did it!" Pinkie exclaimed as we all hugged each other and cheered that we finally defeated Discord. Not only that, we saw that all of his chaotic magic that he spread throughout Ponyville, and possibly, Equestria, was returning back to normal. Phew, we actually did it!

That's when I felt somepony giving me a tight hug as I looked down to see Fluttershy was the one who gave me that tight hug as she smiled happily before realizing that we were being watched by our friends, who were giving us sly looks.

Fluttershy let go of the hug and blushed madly, along with me. Well, this is gonna be a long explanation for them, assuming if they knew this all along from the very beginning.

You think this is all over? Isn't it, boy?

Huh? T-that voice...it couldn't be...Discord?

This isn't the last time we shall see each other. Just remember this, once you know the truth behind the mystery on why you're here in Equestria, you'll suffer more pain and despair than I felt thanks to you nine cretins. You'll be thinking how wonderful it is to live in a wonderful place like this. Until then, sayonara...Ren Loodan...Mwahahahaha....

What? What is he talking about now? Nine cretins? So...does he mean that...there are more humans here in Equestria?

"Mason! Mason!" Huh? Is that Carrie? We turned around to see Mason laying on the ground, not moving and Carrie, Kaede, and Kodi trying to wake him up. 

"Oh no! Mason!" Twilight exclaimed as we rushed to his side.

"What happened?!" Applejack asked.

"I don't know, he just went out like a light when you guys turned Discord into a statue!" Kaede answered.

"Oh no! Please tell he's not..." Rarity covered her mouth in shock and at the verge of tears. I checked for a pulse, and luckily, it was still beating.

I let out a sigh of relief and said "Don't worry, he's alright. He's just out like a light, that's all."

The others sighed in relief as Carrie said "T-then...what are we gonna do?"

"I'll send a message to Princess Celestia and tell her all about this!" Twilight suggested as she raced back to her library. We all remained back here, watching over Mason's unconscious body. Mason...you gave it your all to protect all of us...and I thank you for that...brother.

"Ren?" I turned to Kodi, who had a worried and concern look on his face. "Do you think...he'll be alright?"

Not wanting to ruin the mood, I smiled softly and petted his head and replied "Don't worry Kodi, he'll be okay. I just know it."

I really hope Mason will be okay. Besides, I really want to hear what he says if it's true that...he really is owned by a royal family? Just what kind of childhood did Carrie and Mason had?!

To Be Continued
> Chapter 30 - An Unbreakable Love!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Mason!"

H-huh? I slowly opened my eyes, seeing myself in some blackless void. Where am I? How did I end up here? I remember seeing Ren and the mares fighting off Discord, and turning him into stone. That was the last thing I remembered...

"Mason!"

I slowly looked around to see....Elena. She was standing all the way behind me with a soft smile. 

"Elena..." I muttered as I tried to go after her until she started moving away without even moving an inch. "Elena!"

"Mason...thank you for everything. Thank you for being with me...." Elena soon started to fade away into a bright light, causing me to go after her. 

"Elena! Don't go!" I called for her, chasing her into the bright light until I felt something in front of me. W-what?! I kept banging on the invincible wall, hoping to break free of the prison. I then slammed myself into the wall as Elena gotten closer to the bright light. 

"Elena! ELENA! NOOOO!"



"NOOOOOO!" I screamed, panting heavily. Huh? Where am I? How did I get here? I was in a hospital bed, and this place looks pretty nice and etiquette. I noticed my arms were covered in bandages and that I was in a hospital gown. So...it was all a dream? What happened to Elena? Why did I dream about that? I know she's alright because...

"Is everything alright?!" Huh? A mint colored pony rushed in, wearing a white coat with a shirt pocket on it, having a red and blue pen on it. He happened to have a light purple mane and tail and his Cutie-Mark was a Stethoscope. "Oh my...you're finally awaken, Mr. Hunter. Thank goodness that you okay."

"T-thank you, doctor. But...where am I?" I asked curiously.

"You're in the Canterlot Hospital." The doctor replied with a soft smile. "You've been put into a coma for a week since a little incident back at Ponyville." Incident? Does he mean...

"Wait? What happened back at Ponyville? Is...everyone alright?" I asked in worried.

"Don't worry Mr. Hunter, nobody was hurt, not even your human companions and your little sister." The doctor assured, much to my shock.

"H-how do you know that I have a sister?"

"The princess told me about it, and also because they're waiting in the lobby." Carrie...is here? All my friends are here just because of me? How kind of them...even for Princess Celestia to bring me here to a hospital due to my injuries when I battled Discord. But wait, I was out for a week? Huh, that fight really must gotten the better of me.

"Okay..." I replied with a sigh. 

"If you want, I can go and get them for you. They did say they had many questions for you." The doctor suggested. I became surprised to hear that they want to ask questions about me, but if I had to guess...it must be about...me and Carrie's past.

"....Alright, you may let them in." I sighed, which made the doctor smile.

"Alright, just hand on for a bit." The doctor nodded as he took his leave to go and get the others. I sat there and looked at my hands, seeing them bandaged up. Well, I guess I really went all out. But the important thing was that Ren, Carrie, and the others are still alright. I wished that I told them the truth a while back. 

"Mason!"

Guess they're here. The girls, my sister, Kodi, Ren, and the princess arrived into my hospital room, all with worried, concern, and surprised expressions to see me awakened, but no one was more excited and relieved to see me awaken than my little sister, Carrie. 

"Mason! You're okay!" Carrie came over and hugged me tight, much to my surprise. I didn't mind as I hugged her back, relieved to see her still okay in one piece.

"Carrie..." I muttered, smiling softly. 

"I can't believe it! You're awake and okay!" Ren exclaimed in relief before muttering "Well...almost."

"Yeah, we thought you were dead!" Kodi exclaimed, which caused Twilight to look at him with a glare and exclaimed "Kodiak!"

"Oops...sorry." Kodi smiled sheepishly.

"But the important thing is that he's alright." Kaede assured.

"Yeah! We really thought you were dead, until we realized that you went nighty-night and so, Twilight sent a message to the princess and she arranged you to sleep here in the Canterlot hospital!" Pinkie explained through some...really weird gestures.

"Well...she's not wrong." Applejack nodded before turning to me with a smile. "You surprised all of us after we defeated Discord."

"Right, I guess I was very tired that I accidentally blacked out. I'm sorry if I may have caused trouble..." I said sadly.

"Yeah, just next time, when you wanna pass out, just don't do it while we fight. You almost scared us." Rainbow said, crossing her hooves.

"Speaking about Discord, what happened to him?" I asked. "Last I saw him that he was being sucked into a powerful beam made by you guys."

"Oh, we managed to transform him back into stone." Twilight explained with a grin. "Looks like he won't be causing any trouble for us anymore."

"Twilight is correct." Princess Celestia nodded. "He has been safely returned back to the Canterlot Sculpture Gardens."

"Alright, just asking..." I said as Carrie stopped hugging me and looked at me with a sad smile and said "And Mason...I, um...told them about us."

This caught me by surprise as I looked at her in shock. Do you mean...our past?

"Yes, Carrie told us everything, though it quite confused us, Mason darling." Rarity nodded.

"Yeah, she told us about you two living with a princess and owned by a royal family." Ren said before asking "Is it true? I mean, I'm not having doubts with her story, we just thought your version with the story might be a little better."

"...I guess I got no choice, huh?" I asked, which they nodded.

"It's okay if you don't want to talk about it, Mason." Fluttershy suggested.

"I'm sorry if I caused so much trouble for you all." I said sadly.

"It's alright Mason." Ren assured. "We're just worried about you."

"Indeed." Twilight nodded. "You always kept your mouth shut and kept quiet whenever we tried to ask you about yourself."

"However, when you were put in the hospital, we asked Carrie about you and herself, she told us that you guys were raised in a royal family, which even shocked the princess!" Kaede explained. "But she only told us about that part, and that your brother didn't mean any harm and hasn't say anything about you or herself since when you were in a coma."

"Yeah, and I remember Discord kept calling you a 'human-tool', what did he mean by that?" Ren reminded me. I winced at that name and replied "I-I-I...It's because...I have no purpose but to serve my young master."

Everyone became confused on that part. "Y-young master?" Fluttershy asked nervously.

"It's quite a long story..." I muttered sadly. 

"Please, we promise we'll understand." Princess Celestia assured with a serious expression.

"Yes Mason, we promise that everything you tell us, we will understand every word." Rarity smiled. I nodded in agreement and cleared my throat, ready to tell them my story.

"Don't worry! I'll help too! Just in case my big brother leaves anything out." Carrie chuckled, causing me to smile softly. Oh Carrie...

"So anyway..." I turned to my friends with a serious expression. "What Discord said was the truth...I'm owned by a royal family."

"W-what?! Are you serious?!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"Rainbow Dash, please calm down and let Mason talk." Fluttershy assured before turning back to me. "Please continue."

I nodded and continued "Anyway, I don't know how all this happened, but it just happened one night. Back when I was twelve and Carrie was three, our parents always fighting and arguing with each other, going through it over and over until one day....it happened."

"What happened?" Kaede asked in worried.

I went silent as I ruffled a bit of Carrie's hair as she began to feel said. "They left us."

"Huh? They...left both you and Carrie?!" Kodi exclaimed in shock.

"Well actually, they didn't realize that they were gonna leave each other." I explained, much to everyone's confusion.

"Umm...could you please be more...specific, Mason darling." Rarity raised a brow.

"Actually, I don't know how to explain it...but it was after when I walked back home from school when I was twelve..." I began telling them my story.



Flashback
At the suburb streets of Chicago, a young twelve year old Mason is seen walking back home. He had red eyes, normal skin tone, wore a red sports shirt and blue jeans, and green sneakers. He looked pretty tired like he hasn't slept for a few days or so. Mason was trying his best not to fall asleep while walking home or else he might be late getting home. For the past few years since his little sister's birth, Mason's parents' began arguing over and over for, causing young Mason and his little sister to not get any sleep.

Soon, Mason finally arrived to the house, eager to get some sleep and hopefully ignored his mom and dad's fighting...again. As he was about to open the door, he noticed a note in front of his door. Curious, he tear it off the front door and read it.

Dear Henry, I'm tired with this. I can't keep living with you anymore if you won't change nor understand my feelings. From the first time we brought birth to our son, I thought our lives were going to be better, but ever since we brought birth to Carrie, we began arguing about what we decide for how we were going to raise them since we're always busy with our jobs. So, I've decided to leave forever and never come back, I hope you're happy. - Susan.

Mason froze, clenching on the paper real hard. It said it right there, plain as day. 

"M-mom?..." Mason muttered as he immediately opened the door, rushing into the house in search for his dad to tell him about this, and in hopes to find Carrie. "Dad! Carrie!" Mason called for them as he began searching every inch in the house until he entered his parent's room, also finding another note on the door, only this one was from his father, Henry.

Mary, we can't go through this. You always keep arguing that I should worried about our children by taking time off of work. But I can't because I really need the money in order to keep our home. I tried to explain it to you, but you won't dare listen to me, so I'm sorry, but I'm going away. This is the only way so that we don't have to keep fighting like this. Please just take care of Mason and our little Carrie. - Henry. 

Mason began breathing heavily and was at the verge of tears, reading the contents of the note. Mason immediately rushed into Carrie's room, and found her sister sleeping peacefully in her bed. Mason rushed to his sister, relieved to see her still here.

"Carrie! Carrie!" Mason whispered, gently waking up his sister. Carrie slowly opened her eyes and looked up to see her big brother looking at her with tears in his eyes.

"M-Mason? W-what's wrong big brother?" Carrie asked, rubbing her eyes. Mason didn't respond as he began crying and immediately hugged her, letting some tears out. "B-big brother?"

"Carrie! I thought you were gone! When I read those notes, I-I-I thought..." Mason gritted his teeth as he hugged his sister tight.

"Huh? What notes? And where's mommy and daddy?" Carrie asked as Mason ended his hug. "Both mommy and daddy were fighting again, so I went to sleep in hopes to forget about that. So where's mommy and daddy?"

Mason went silent, feeling uncomfortable and heartbroken to tell his sister the truth, but he can't just lie to her. He doesn't want to make the situation worse.

"I'm sorry Carrie..." I hugged her again, as I began to tear up. "I'm sorry but...they're gone..."

Carrie didn't understand about what her brother meant, but she hugged her big brother, sympathizing with him. 



Flashback Ended
"Oh Mason...I'm so sorry to hear that." Kaede said, feeling depressed.

"I can't believe it!" Applejack exclaimed angrily. "Your parents just left each other and didn't even bother to know what happened to you two."

"Yeah..." Carrie nodded as she was petting Kodi on the back while sitting on a chair. "I didn't understand why since I was too small to understand, but as I grew up, I realized why my parents left and knew they didn't mean to abandon us..."

"I am sorry for what has happened..." Princess Celestia said in a solemn expression before smiling softly. "But I know your parents didn't mean to abandoned you."

"Yeah..." I nodded, darkening my face a bit.

"But if I may ask, what happened after that, darling?" Rarity asked in concern.

"Ever since I discovered our parents left each other and us as well, I knew we couldn't stay at our home alone, so I decided to run away with Carrie, and hopefully, find new parents." I explained, surprising everyone.

"What?! You just left and nobody didn't bother to know what happened to you?!" Twilight exclaimed, which me and Carrie nodded. "I'm beginning to wonder about your kind..." Twilight grumbled.

"But I'm sure there's something good that happens, right?!" Pinkie assured with a cheery smile.

"Well, something like that." I shrugged as I continued "As we were walking around Chicago, the name of our hometown, we began starving to death until I noticed a bunch of people gathering in one spot on the street. I then noticed a woman who was with the group had a purse, and I was really desperate to eat something, so...I tried to steal some money from her purse."

"What?! Why in Equestria would you do that?!" Twilight yelled.

"She's right, that was mighty wrong for you to do!" Applejack agreed.

"Girls, come down." Ren assured with a nervous grin. "I'm sure Mason didn't mean too. I mean, he and Carrie didn't have a choice but to survive."

"Ren's right." Fluttershy nodded in agreement. "So can we not please blame him?"

Everyone looked at each other and realized that they're right. "Alright, you have a point." Rainbow grumbled in agreement.

"Yes, anyway..." I cleared my throat before going back to my story. "So anyway, I asked Carrie to stay put while I tried to steal it. I didn't understand what they were saying as I was trying to stole some money, but once I did, someone grabbed my arm and gave me a stern look. It turned out, it was a wealthy person from Europe, the royal family that took me and Carrie in."

"I see, but it seems this 'human' wasn't fond of you stealing, correct?" Princess Celestia asked curiously.

I nodded and replied "Yeah, but he wasn't exactly angry, he was quite understanding. Soon, some other people were going to punish me, and the man that grabbed me tried to stop this, despite even knowing who I am. While they were talking, I made my escape, along with Carrie, and tried to run as far away as I can."

"Well, I'm not sure if that was a smart or dumb move you pulled." Twilight raised a brow at me.

"Yeah, and that's when we meet her!" Carrie said with a smile.

"She?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Elena..." I said, softly smiling. "She's the princess of European Royalty, and I...was her protector." 

"And she's my big brother's lover." Carrie said bluntly, causing me to blush.

"Ah! So she's royalty and y-you were her protector?!" Rarity gasped in amazement. "Oh my! It explains everything why you acted with so much chivalry!"

"Yeah, and why you were always so polite to us, despite our first encountering." Ren chuckled nervously before smiling. "But still, you were kinda a good help."

"Yeah." Kodi nodded before asking "So how did you meet her?"

"Well apparently, she went chasing after me and Carrie, wanting to resolve this matter and try to talk to me, but I mistook her trying to hurt me and my little sister, but she assured that she wouldn't do that." I explained.

"Well, for a young princess, she seems quite...a character." Rarity sighed.

"Yes, she was..." I smiled a bit, and probably blushing. "But as she was trying to say something else, I was immediately knocked out by someone."

"Huh? Really?!" Kaede asked in shock. "Who would've done that?"

"Hugo Wagner...my rival." I answered, much to everypony's confusion.

"Your rival?" Pinkie asked before letting out a gasp. "He isn't that type of rival who always come towards you and battles you to prove your worth and likes making rude remarks at you and an arrogant type of pony who don't care for others but himself, right?!"

Everyone, including me, froze upon hearing that. I don't know how, but she's quite accurate.

"Yeah Pinkie, like that was something he was gonna say." Rainbow said sarcastically.

"Umm actually, she's right." Carrie said, surprised by how Pinkie guessed that.

"W-w-what?!" Twilight yelled. "B-but how-"

"Twilight, calm down." Ren assured.

"Yeah, we kinda don't you be upset like last time." Kodi added. Like last time? Is there something I need to know about something? 

"R-right...so sorry about that." Twilight sighed before smiling sheepishly while Princess Celestia silently chuckled at her student. 

"Right..." I raised a brow before continuing "Anyway, what Pinkie described about him is correct. Hugo was nothing more than an arrogant boy who does everything that he wants and gets paid for his rewards on his deeds. He first met that the night me, Carrie, and Elena first met each other. He was even the same age as me and was a protector of his father, who's also of European Royalty."

"What?! Ten years old?!" Kaede gasped before saying "Wow, who knew someone that arrogant like him could be so young."

"Tell me about it..." Rainbow nodded in agreement. "I mean, I may sometime be arrogant and cocky, but I'm not that type of pony to do stuff in order to get payed."

"Yes, that I agree." I nodded with a serious expression. "I only have job and that is to protect Elena, my sister, and the rest of her family from dangerous threats."

"That is quite a big responsibility you have, Mason." Princess Celestia smiled. "You must've loved your job of being a protector for your princess, correct?"

"Yeah, she's quite kind and loving and really cares for everyone." I said with a smile before frowning a bit, remembering that dream. Why did it felt so real? Is it because I've been trapped in this world for a while that I might've forgotten about her? No, better not think of those kind of things.

"You know, she almost sounds like Princess Celestia." Kodi grinned. 

"Well, when you put it like that...it does kinda sound true." Ren nodded with a smile. "So Mason, what happened after this 'Hugo' guy knocked you out?"

"Well apparently, I woke up in the hospital and..."



Flashback
Mason slowly started to open his eyes, seeing himself in a white room. He became slightly confused on how he arrived here and saw a nearby window, which showed it was daylight. Suddenly, the door to the room opened, revealing the man and woman from last night, along with the young girl, Elena, who Mason encountered when he and his sister encountered.

Mason became scared of what they were going to do them until the man spoken "Please, relax my good boy, we didn't need to bring you no harm. I promise..."

Mason calmed down and glanced away, looking from their eyesight. 

"And if you are worried about this young lady, she's alright." The woman pointed out as she was holding Li'l Carrie in her hands. Mason sighed in relief, which made the man smiled.

"You're lucky you're alright, and please forgive Eugene's son, Hugo, he doesn't care who he hurts as long as he gets his paid." The man explained before sighing. "That boy just doesn't show remorse or care to anyone he hurts."

"O-okay..." I sighed. "U-umm....I'm so sorry."

"It's alright, we know you didn't mean to steal the money." The woman assured with a soft yet sad grin. 

"Yes, and for our daughter to run off like that." The man said, giving the little girl a scolding look.

"Sorry daddy..." The little girl said sadly.

"Umm..." Mason spoke up, feeling tense up with fear. "I don't want like to be rude, but who are you people?" 

"Ah yes, I nearly forgotten to introduce myself. My name is Carter, and I am the prince of the Ortega Family. This is my lovely wife, Isla, and our daughter, Elena The First and the heir of the Ortega Family."

"Hi, nice to meet you!" Elena smiled at Mason, who blushed a little as he replied "H-hi..."

"You know, you're quite sweet, little one." Isla said happily. "So, you never told us your name, what's your?"

"Oh...m-my name is Mason Hunter, and that's my little sister, Carrie, in your hands." Mason introduced himself and Carrie with a blush.

"Mason? That's such a strong American name!" Elena smiled happily. 

"Umm...thank you?" Mason replied with a blush. "And I'm sorry if I gotten you in trouble."

"It's okay, it was unwise for me to catch up to ya." Elena assured with a smile.

"But...why chase after me?"

"Because I wanted you to try and talk to you so that we resolve this matter." Mason became surprised by what she said. She wanted to talk to him and try to resolve this issue, despite how dangerous it is in the nighttime. She's quite brave and spunky for someone who is part in royalty.

"Anyway..." Carter cleared his throat, looking at Mason with confusion. "If I may ask young Mason, why did you try to steal? What would your parents say about this type of behavior?"

After saying those words, Mason darkened his face, letting out a tear, which Carter noticed and realized what is wrong with him. 

"I am sorry for bringing that up." Carter apologized.

"No...it's okay." Mason wiped away his tears, while Isla smile in sympathy for the boy and Elena became confused on what Mason meant.

"Hey, what's wrong Mason?" Elena asked, failing to understand why Mason didn't answer her father's question.

"Elena...it's best not to ask him." Isla said softly. "But anyway, you and your sister got nowhere to live, right? No other relatives or guardians?"

Mason shook his head, surprising the royal family. Isla took a look at Carrie, feeling sad that Mason and the little girl don't have anywhere to go.

"Poor children..." Isla muttered sadly. Carter rubbed his chin in thought, wondering what to do with them. That's when Elena spoke up.

"Hey! I know! Why not come with us?!" Elena said with an excited grin, surprising everyone, even Mason.

"W-what?" Mason asked in confusion. "Y-you want me to come with you? B-but...won't I be a bother?"

"No way! You seemed to be a nice person, and I love that! Besides, as the royal heir of the family, I should let you and your little sister stay with us."

Mason was speechless upon hearing this. He and his sister...living with a royal European family?! B-but, there's no way her parents would allow that, right?

"Hmm...what do you say Carter?" Isla asked her husband, who thought for a while until he let out a grin.

"Yeah, it does sound like a good idea. Besides, we shouldn't ignore a bunch of homeless orphans around here. A wonderful idea, Elena." Carter praised.

"Ahh, thanks daddy!" Elena chuckled. 

"So...you would really let us live with you? That's not a problem?" Mason asked in concern.

"Don't not fear, young man. We promise we'll take care of you both in the name of the Ortega Family." Carter assured. Mason smiled happily to hear until he heard a yawn coming from his young sister, who slowly opened her eyes.

"Huh? Mason?" Carrie looked around, before noticing Carter and his family. "Who are you?"

"Hello there, Carrie, I'm Isla and this is my husband, Carter, and our daughter, Elena." Isla introduced herself as she hugged Carrie gently. "We were just speaking with your brother and we made an agreement to raise the both of you."

"R-raise us? But what about mommy and daddy?" Carrie asked, surprising the royal family.

"Hold on, you do not know what happened to your parents?" Carter asked.

"No...did something happened to them?" Carrie asked, causing Carter to be more confused as he turned to Mason. 

"Mason, what's going on?" Carter asked. Mason addressed him to come closely, which he did, as Mason whispered "Carrie doesn't know our parents left us because she slept through the whole event and I found notes that showed their state of leave."

"I see..." Carter nodded before looking back at Carrie, as she was talking with Elena. Carter softly smiled and turned back to Mason and replied "But you must understand that she has to know the truth."

"But...I don't want to feel bad and depressed..." Mason said, frowning sadly. Carter smiled and ruffled Mason's hair a bit.

"Do not fear child, I shall talk with her." Carter assured as he walked towards Carrie and Isla. "Carrie, you see, your parents are off in a little trip and...they won't be coming back."

"Won't be coming back?" Carrie asked, wondering what he meant.

"Yes...I'm sorry, but as your new family, we promised we'll take good care of you." Carter assured, ruffling Carrie's hair, which made her giggle.

"That's right, and we're gonna together as a family!" Elena assured, holding Carrie's small hands. "We're gonna be like sisters!"

"Sisters?" Carrie asked before making that cute smile for hers. "Yay! I always wanted a sister!"

"Carrie..." Mason chuckled before frowning a bit. "Hey, Mr. Carter."

"Yes, Mason?" Carter turned to him with a curious expression.

"I was wondering...is the royal family really nice?" I asked curiously.

"Well...some of the family members are known for being greedy, but other than that, the Ortega Family are a kind and wealthy family in our country." Carter grinned. "Besides, boys in our family either become princes or bodyguards. If you want, you can become a personal bodyguard for my daughter, Elena."

"A personal bodyguard?" I asked in confusion.

"Yes, the training takes about six months, but if you don't want to, then I understand." Mason began thinking of Carter's proposition. He was always trying to protect his baby sister from his parents as their fights always lead straight to them, and Mason always gotten hurt in some of their fights, so maybe this might be a good chance that he can help his little sister and...Elena...

"Okay, I'll take your offer." Mason smiled in determination.

"So wait, you'll be my personal bodyguard?" Elena questioned which made her smile happy. "That sounds wonderful! We can always hang out with each other and talk about cultures between your country and ours! It'll be amazing!"

"Umm...sure?" Mason chuckled nervously from the young girl's enthusiasm. 

"Yay! Not only do I get a sister, but I got a new family!" Carrie cheered, which made everyone in the room laughed. Mason never expected to get adopted into a rich royal family from Europe, but he didn't mind. What was in his mind was that he was going through a tough training to be a personal bodyguard for the princess and for his little sister. But as long as he tries to be strong and protects his close ones, everything will turn out fine.
Flashback Ended



"Amazing!" Rarity sparkled her eyes in delight and amazement. "A young boy and his little sister, getting adopted by a royal family while you train to become a personal bodyguard for a beautiful princess, and your sister becoming a princess and you and this Elena fallen in love with each other, so romantic...."

"Hey, keep your fantasies to yourself Rarity." Rainbow Dash glared at her, annoyed with her talking about her romantic fantasies. 

"So you never told Carrie the truth about what happened to your parents yet?" Kaede asked.

"Actually, my big brother told me what happened when he was 15." Carrie answered, feeling a little sad. "I became heartbroken and wanted to be left alone, until both he and Elena cheered me up. I realized that they were my family and I'll always be a part of them forever."

"Ahh, that's nice." Fluttershy chuckled happily.

"So these people really took you in?" Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion. I nodded and replied "Yes, and they were very nice people, along with their servants of course. For the past four weeks, I've been spending a lot of time with our new family and made close bonds with them, despite their lack of work."

"Oh, you mean the Ortega Family?" Ren asked, which I nodded. "Hmm....you know, I feel like I've heard that name somewhere before..."

"Oh right!" Kaede smiled. "The Ortega Family are known for being owning the biggest, richest, and wealthiest place in all of Europe and had a very good trademark with the U.S., I read it on a magazine once, and this Princess Elena that Mason is talking about is the royal heir to the company, I've seen her plenty of times on the news."

"Wow, those guys must be richer than Flithy Rich from the way you described them, Kaede." Applejack said, surprised by it.

"Oh yeah! Now I remember!" Ren grinned. "I've seen her twice on the Fox 5 news as well. She gave out a good and inspirational speech on why she should run her company. So you guys were in the same family as her?" Ren asked both me and Carrie.

"Yes, that is true. As her personal bodyguard, it is my duty to stay by her side." I answered.

"Yeah, and I was made a part of the royal family, like a princess." Carrie added with a smile. "Though, I spent a lot of time with both Elena and Mason."

"Really?" Twilight asked. "I was thinking she would be busy with royal duties."

"Nah, her parents do that type of stuff while she and I stay at the castle and practices our mannerisms and learn our histories about the royal family." Carrie explained. "Though, most of the time, Elena drags both me and my big brother into town so we could spend lots of time together." 

Princess Celestia let out a smile and said "It seems to me that she's the type to go and see the rest of the outside world, correct?"

"Mm-hmm...she sure is something." I grinned while blushing a bit. "But anyway, resuming my story....After those four weeks of spending time with the Ortegan Family, I began my training as her personal bodyguard. It seemed pretty easy from mannerisms to protecting our leaders, and I learned everything from my teachers. Apparently, I was a protege as I passed all my lessons in one-shot, and after those six months, I graduated and became Elena's personal bodyguard."

"What?! One shot?!" Ren exclaimed. "That's amazing! Pretty impressive there, Mason."

"Oh please, I perfectly did a Sonic Rainboom in one-shot." Rainbow Dash boasted, which made Applejack give her a smug grin and replied "Oh really? Then why were you worrying all over about not performing it back at the Best Flyers Competition because you forgotten to use it since you were a little filly."

Rainbow Dash glared at Applejack for bringing that up as she said "W-whatever, who cares about the details? Let's just keep listening to the story."

"Yes, your story, Mason and Carrie darling, is quite fantastic yet romantic." Rarity giggled. "I can see why you were quite polite and acted like a gentle-pony back at the Grand Galloping Gala and taught that ignorant stallion of a prince..." Rarity scoffed, remembering Prince Blueblood. "You were indeed a true gentle-pony, Mason darling."

"T-thank you, Rarity..." I softly smiled.

"But you know, it seemed pretty fine and you and Carrie were having the time of your life." Kodi said. "But I still don't understand what did Discord meant by 'human tool'?"

I winced at that name, which went noticed by Ren. 

"Mason? Did something happened that caused you to get that nickname?" Ren asked.

I let out a sigh, realizing that there's no way to make them forget about it. "You see....for all the years I spent with Elena, I always stayed close by her and my sister's side, keeping them safe, making breakfast for them, and all them. But for the past five years, some people down at Elena's hometown kept referring me as nothing more than the princesses own tool, even Hugo."

"You mean, the one who knocked you out from when you were twelve?" Fluttershy asked in fear. 

"Yeah! He kept taunting at my brother and keeps referring him as a 'tool' or 'toy' to the princess. Elena despised of using that word, defending my big brother and telling him that he's her friend! She even once gave him a gift!" Carrie exclaimed.

"A gift?" Pinkie asked. "Ooh! What was it? A chocolate cake?!"

"Umm...not exactly." I said, raising a brow at the energetic pink pony. "It was an amulet that shows a picture of me, Carrie, and Elena when we were young."

"Hold on..." Kaede gasped as she realized what I was described. "Wait, do you mean the amulet for when we went home after Pinkie's birthday party."

"Yeah, it was given to me by her last year as an anniversary gift." I smiled, remembering that time back then.

"Anniversary?! What?! So we missed an anniversary party of between you and Elena?!" Pinkie exclaimed in shock. Well, it's kinda not a big deal.

"Wow, so Elena gave that amulet to you?" Ren asked.

"Yeah, it was to remember the time we first met when me and Carrie were adopted to the Ortega Family." I answered.

"That amulet must've symbolize the friendship between you guys and Elena, right?" Twilight guessed with a smile.

"Yeah! We were like the three musketeers!" Carrie exclaimed happily. The Three Musketeers? No offense sister, but I think there's gotta be a better name than that.

"Really?" Kodi asked in surprise. "But both Mason and Elena were falling in love, so wouldn't that make you the third wheel?"

"Umm...you make a good point." Carrie rubbed her chin in thought. 

"So where is the amulet you were talking about?" Applejack asked curiously.

"I left it in my duffel bag. It's in one of the rooms Princess Celestia let us stayed in for the time being before Discord was released from his stony prison." I answered with a soft smile.

"So you kept it for a long time, huh?" Princess Celestia asked.

"Well yes, but the moment I woke up from this world, I found it missing recently until I found it along with other stuff in our room closet. I don't know whoever trapped us here, but they someone knew about our clothes size, have the exact same toys as Carrie, and has this amulet. No, come to think of it, that amulet was actual the one Elena gotten me." I explained.

"Really? What's make you say that?" Rainbow Dash asked in wonder.

"Well, it has the picture of me, Carrie, and Elena from when we were younger, and it held the family crest on it. Elena even made it, so there's no way anyone could copy her handiwork."

"That is true..." Twilight rubbed her chin in thought. "Mason, do you think you could us more about the amulet?"

"Yes, I gotten it just last year as Elena decided to give it to me as a present..." I began my story, remembering that fateful day.



Flashback
It was another day at the Ortega Family Castle as an older Mason, who had a little bit of dark spiky hair on front, neck length hair, wearing a white sweater, and a gray undershirt underneath. He was also wearing blue straw Zori slippers, black sweats, and a black belt wrapped around his sweats. Mason was walking through the halls, holding two trays filled with pancakes, toast, and orange juice as he was delivering it to his little sister and Miss Elena. 

Today was for his young mistresses' father, Carter Ortega, to go and speak about a peaceful trade with Eugene Wagner, a fellow wealthy person from another part of the European country. Carter had told Mason to watch over his daughter and his own little sister from trouble. Mason agreed to it as he decided to watch over and make sure nothing goes wrong.

Soon, he arrived to Elena's room, which had a pink design everywhere in the room. He gently knocked on the door with his foot since his hands were full with the trays. Soon, the door opened, revealing an 8 year old Carrie, who was wearing a long pink dress with a bow tie on the front.

"Oh hey big brother! There you are, Elena and I were just about to get you." Carrie said happily.

"Huh? You both need me? For what exactly?" I asked curiously.

"You should know, Mason!" The two turned to see another girl coming out of the room, standing next to Carrie. It was a sixteen year old Elena, wearing her  blue and white dress with a large green ribbon with a purple and silver jewel on the chest and a violet ribbon with diamonds in her hair. She also wears a white bracelet on her right wrist, black and white thigh high socks, and red Mary Janes.

"Oh, Miss Elena!" Mason bowed at her.

"Mason, I told you before, just call me Elena, and also, we're friends, so don't bow." Elena assured with a sigh. 

"Right...sorry." Mason apologized before asking "So what is it that you guys need me for?"

"Elena got a special surprise for you at the castle's balcony!" Carrie answered with a grin, surprising Mason.

"What?" Mason asked.

"Carrie's right, it's a very special surprise." Elena teased.

"A surprise?" Mason raised a brow before smiling. "Okay, so what is this special surprise if I might ask?" 

"We can't tell you silly! That's what it's called a surprise." Elena nudged him on the shoulder.

"Okay, okay, Elena." Mason chuckled before showing off the tray at her and Carrie. "Well anyway, I made you guys some lunch."

"Oh, no need to worry! We'll have some of your lunch later after we're done showing you the surprise. Come on, let's go!" Elena said before turning to Carrie. "But first, we should get you dressed in normal clothes, Carrie."

"You got it Elena!" Carrie nodded as they both entered back in their room before Elena said "We'll be right back Mason, just wait outside for us!"

"Yes mi...I mean, Elena." Mason nodded before she and Carrie closed the doors, leaving Mason outside for their lunch. Mason let out a sigh and muttered "And I made this lovely lunch for them. Oh well..." 

"Well well well...if it isn't Mason Hunter." 

Mason narrowed his eyes in anger, recognizing that voice anyway. He slowly turned around to see a brown haired boy with short hair, wearing a blue suit with frills in front it and a black vest, which was underneath a blue suit, and brown pants, with black shoes. 

"So we meet again...Hugo." Mason said, irritated to see him again.

"What? You seemed not that excited to see me again, Mason Hunter." Hugo chuckled devilishly.

"Of course I am. I known for four years Hugo, and you still haven't changed that rude and arrogant personality of yours." Mason growled. "Let me guess, you're here with your father, Mr. Wagner, correct?"

"Of course I am, I am his protector after all." Hugo smiled evilly. "Besides, I need to find a way to make some dough."

"And once again, your motivation with money never ceases to surprise me." Mason glared at him. "Do you not even show remorse to your people, even our people?"

"Our people? Hm, don't make me laugh. If you're thinking you're a part of the Ortega Family, then you're not." Hugo said arrogantly.

"What?" Mason asked, narrowing his eyes.

"Don't you get it? You're a tool like me. We both share similar strength, but except you won't deny that your nothing more than the princesses tool." Mason glared at Hugo for those words, he wasn't a tool to Elena, and Elena doesn't believe that as well.

"Don't you have somewhere else to be?" Mason asked in a threatening tone.

"What's the point? I'm just speaking the truth, Mason Hunter." Hugo chuckled as he continued "Just face reality, you're a tool and you'll always will be."

Mason just stared at him, filled with anger and...sadness. Elena and her parents doesn't believe in that Mason is a tool, right?

"Hugo..." Mason became surprised to see both Elena and Carrie coming out of the room, with Carrie wearing her normal attire. Elena made a glare towards Hugo as she said "I think you have somewhere to be, so just go...now..."

Hugo just looked at her with a nearly blanked expression before smirking. "You know what, fine...so long, Mason Hunter."

With that, Hugo took his leave while Mason and Elena glared angrily at him while Carrie held onto Elena's hand with a scared look upon her face.

"M-Mason..." Carrie muttered sadly. I shook my head before saying "That ignorant fool..."

"Tell me about it." Elena nodded in agreement before softly smiling towards him. "But forget about him, Mason, let's go to the balcony for our surprise."

"Yeah! Just don't let get to ya! You're more stronger than him!" Carrie assured, smiling towards her big brother. 

"Yeah..." Mason nodded before softly smiling towards both his young mistress and his little sister. "Alright...let's go."

Elena and Carrie looked at each other, worried if Hugo's words' got into his head and made him have doubts. Soon after, they both led him to the balcony as it showed the beautiful sunset. 

"So...what is this 'surprise' you girls wanted to show me?" Mason asked curiously.

"Well...it's more like this." Elena chuckled as Carrie took something out of her pockets, revealing a little white box. 

"Huh? What is that?" 

"Happy Anniversary big brother!" Carrie chuckled, much to Mason's shock.

"A-anniversary?!" Mason exclaimed. 

"You know, from the first time we met." Elena reminded, taking the little box from Carrie. "The day we met back at America, when you tried to steal some of mother's money."

Mason chuckled sheepishly and replied "Y-yeah...I kinda remember that."

"And when we met back at the hospital, where we decided to take you guys in when we realized that your parents were gone and not coming back, and you decided to become my personal bodyguard. I'm very happy to have ever met you, Mason and Carrie."

"...Thank you." I nodded with a serious expression, but held a soft smile.

"Open it, big brother! Open it!" Carrie encouraged him. Mason chuckled a bit before opening the little white box up, revealing a golden amulet with the Ortega Family Crest on it, which was a shield with two swords crossing over it. 

"An amulet..." Mason said, blinking in surprise. 

"Yep, and now open it up!" Elena smirked. Mason became confused on what she was talking about as he did so, which made him gasp. It was a picture, showing Mason, Carrie, and Elena in their younger selves, and smiling happily.

"Elena...Carrie..." Mason smiled towards his young mistress and his little sister, happy for the gift.

"Do you like it, big brother? We bought from a store downtown, and Elena knew it would be the perfect gift for you two!" Carrie explained with a grin.

"That's right." Elena nodded. "See, after these past four years, I...never been this close with anyone before. In all life, I felt alone due to my royal heir status, but ever since you both came to my life, you two were the closest people I ever had, besides my parents of course." Elena chuckled. "But anyway, Mason, I want to thank you and Carrie for entering my life. You two are like family to me, and I don't what anyone says about you, you're not a tool, you're my..."

Elena blushed, embarrassed to admit it. Mason realized what she wanted to say as he began blushing as well, which Carrie noticed.

"Come on! You don't have to be shy about it." Carrie spoke up. Mason and Elena looked at her before they looked back at each other, smiling happily at each other before they kissed each other, which made Carrie excited.

After they ended their kiss, Elena smiled happily at him and replied "Happy anniversary Mason."

Mason smiled back and said "Happy Anniversary too, Elena."

"Yay! I don't believe it! Both my big brother and Elena finally kissed! That's awesome!" Carrie jumped for joy, which made Elena smiled towards her adoptive sister and Mason looked at Elena, softly grinning at his two friends. He was surprised that he was kissed by Elena, but nonetheless, it was a quite...a wonderful experience. He gotten rid of those doubts of his friends, and to think he thought of himself as Elena's tool. How wrong he was there...
Flashback Ended



"Wowie Zowie! That's amazing! You kissed her!" Pinkie cheered.

"Ahh, that's so beautiful! You and Elena were meant to be together forever, Mason darling." Rarity sighed happily.

"Thank you, Rarity..." I nodded with a smile.

"Wow, it's so amazing!" Kodi cheered, jumping off of Carrie's hands and looked at me with an excited grin. "You know, your past is quite amazing, but why hide it away from us?"

"...Because I cannot reveal that kind of information." I sighed, which confused everyone.

"What do you mean?" Fluttershy asked.

"The Ortega Family never told anyone us besides our kingdom about our existence." I explained.

"But...why?" Ren raised a brow at me.

"Because we might end in trouble." Carrie answered.

"End up in trouble?" Applejack asked.

"Carter feared that we might end up in some terrible danger like kidnapping, being held for ransom, or assassination if anyone from outside our kingdom might knew about the young mistresses' personal bodyguard and the adoptive sister of Elena." I explained with a frown. 

"I can see your point, Mason." Twilight sighed. 

"But also...because I was afraid." I said sadly, confusing everyone again.

"You were...afraid to tell us the truth?" Ren asked.

"Because I feared that you guys might've been afraid of me, and I didn't knew much about you guys, so...I'm sorry." I said sadly. "I should've told you all before any of this happened."

"Mason..." Carrie muttered sadly.

"Mason, you don't have to apologize." Ren assured, much to my confusion. "You see, even if you told us, I would still believe you. You're our friend, and as your friends, we stick together like glue and always believe in each other. Like if you were frame, I would place my faith to the very end until we prove your innocence. That's the point of friendship, we stick together to the end and never leave each other."

I looked at him with shock before noticing the smiles from everyone else, and my two pet squirrels, Nate and Maddy, came out of Carrie's shirt, happy to see me again.

"Yeah, those two tag along after Princess Celestia transported you to the hospital." Kodi explained. Nate and Maddy jumped off of Carrie's shoulders and climbed up to my hospital bed before climbing up my shoulders and nuzzling my cheek, causing me to smile.

"Thank you..." I muttered before turning back to Ren. "Thank you Ren for your kind advice."

"Anytime Mason." Ren nodded with a smile.

"It sounds to me like another friendship lesson has been learned today." Princess Celestia chuckled before turning to Twilight. "Twilight? Did you all of that memorize?"

"Yes Princess Celestia." Twilight nodded, grinning at her teacher. "So do you wish for me to send it to you later?"

"That's quite alright, I'm good." Princess Celestia assured.

"Wow Ren, I'm surprised by that advice you gave out." Kaede praised, causing Ren to rubbed his head bashfully as he smiled happily and replied "Gee, thanks Kaede."

"And Mason..." Kaede turned to me with a soft smile. "It doesn't matter what people say what you are, you're not a tool, you're a kind person that stays loyal to us no matter what."

"...Yes, thank you Kaede." I nodded before petting Nate and Maddy on their heads. "But now you understand why I must desire myself to return back to my world. I just want to make sure that Elena is alright."

"Yeah, me too!" Carrie nodded in agreement. "I just hope she's alright. I bet she and her family are looking for us right now!" 

"Yeah." I nodded in agreement. Elena...please be alright and don't worry, I promise that I'll find a way back home. No matter what the cost, I'll get back home. 

"Do not fear Mason." Princess Celestia assured. "I'll do everything in my power to get you all back home."

"Thank you Princess Celestia." You know, it's quite nice to have friends. I don't feel lonely anymore since I got them.

"Oh yeah, speaking of which..." Ren cleared his throat before rubbing his cheek in embarrassment. "Listen everypony, there's something that I...no, we have to tell you."

Huh? We? Who is he referring to?

"Yes, me and Ren have something to say." Fluttershy spoke up with a soft smile.

"Umm...okay? What is it?" Rainbow Dash raised a brow in confusion at them. Both Ren and Fluttershy looked at each other before smiling at each other. 

"You see...me and Fluttershy-"

"Ooh! Ooh! During when we were all fell into Discord's influence that you kissed Fluttershy in the mouth, restoring who she was before and realized that she has feelings for you this entire time, and became embarrassed for you two to tell us this whole week, and Ren didn't know that Fluttershy loved him since he doesn't know much about romance and all that, so Fluttershy decided to teach him on how to become one by becoming her special somepony!"

...
...
...WHAT?! We all silent from that wild accusation Pinkie made while Ren and Fluttershy jaw-dropped by what Pinkie said.

"...Please tell us that she's joking, right?" Kaede asked Ren. Ren simply laughed nervously, implying that she isn't joking at all. Kaede covered her mouth in surprise and muttered "No way...so you're saying..."

"You and Fluttershy are dating?!" Rarity exclaimed in shock before fainting, using her magic to pull over a chair and fallen onto it.

"I don't believe it!" Applejack exclaimed in shock before asking "So you two are dating?!"

"Well...we're not technically dating since Ren kinda doesn't know much about romance and all that." Fluttershy explained, blushing a bit.

"What? You're fifteen and you don't even know about love? Are you serious?" Rainbow questioned.

"Hey, I was home-schooled when I was small, and never made that many friends in my school days. Besides, I always stay at home and play video games all day, and I fail to understand love and romance and all that stuff. Not even those dating simulators helped me brighten my understandment of love." Ren explained, raising his hands in surrender.

"Well...that is certainly surprising..." Twilight raised a brow at him, hearing that from Ren. "But still, if this is what you and Fluttershy want, I won't stop you."

"Besides, I kinda fail to understand from that explanation, Ren..." Kaede sweat-dropped a little. "But I guess I don't mind."

"Yeah! Besides, Fluttershy always kept her eyes at you all the time." Kodi exclaimed, wagging his tail. 

"Yeah...I kinda know that." Ren chuckled nervously. 

"Ooookay..." I said, sweat-dropping. I think its best if we change the subject. I turned to the princess and asked "So Princess Celestia, how long till I leave this hospital?"

"The doctor said this afternoon, which is the perfect time for the celebration." The princess replied with a soft smile, regaining her composure. 

"Celebration? For what exactly?" I asked confusedly.

"The celebration for you all defeating Discord once and for all." Princess Celestia clarified.

"Ah...I see." I nodded. 

"Yeah! She told us yesterday about it! It's gonna be a huge party!" Kodi exclaimed, excited for it.

"Tell me about it, bud." Ren chuckled. "So once you're out of here Mason, we'll be heading to the celebration, okay?"

"Yeah! Come on big brother! We should go!" Carrie added, smiling happily at me.

I smiled at her and replied "Okay, you win. I'll go to the party. Besides, it make up for my past and not telling you guys the truth about ourselves."

"That's great to hear!" Kaede smiled. "You know, we came this far everyone. Even if we're trapped here, I'm glad to make so many friends!"

"Kaede, that's very thoughtful of you." Rarity chuckled.

"Well, I must be going off. See you all in the afternoon for the celebration." Princess Celestia smiled before taking her leave. You know, Kaede isn't the only glad to have made so many friends. I'm glad to have them as friends as well. I then remembered Elena's promise that she wished to guide people to the right path, and like I said before me and Carrie got here, I'm intending to keep it...for them.



Later
Soon after I got out of the hospital in the afternoon, we all headed towards Canterlot Castle, where we saw a crowd filled with ponies cheered for us from the entrance of the castle. We all became happy and yet surprised to see them all here. I guess they're thanking us for saving Equestria from Discord, how...thoughtful of them.

Soon, we stepped through the doors of the princesses' throne room, revealing another crowd of ponies cheering for us.

"Boy...they're sure are a lot of ponies." Kodi whispered through Ren's ears, which he smiled and nodded.

"Tell me about it. It's like we're famous...oh wait, we are." I smiled at him, seeing him forget why is every...everypony is cheering for us. Soon, as we all approached Princess Celestia, she smiled at each of us.

"We are gathered here today to once again the heroism of these eleven friends who put an end to the villain Discord and saved Equestria from Eternal Chaos...!"

As everypony cheered, we all marveled upon seeing something up on one of the windows. Wow, I'm guessing this is the surprise the princess spoke about earlier ago. It was a new stained glass window, showing us defeating Discord. Ren nudged me on the shoulder with a smile, which made me smiled back at him.

"Hey, that's us!" Kodi exclaimed in joy.

"Wow, that's amazing!" Carrie cheered.

"Ahh, it's beautiful..." Kaede sparkled her eyes in amazement.

"Yeah, it's quite amazing." I added, smiling at the new mural of the castle windows. We all looked at each other and nodded before looking back at the mural as everypony cheered again and let the confetti dropped.

You know, this isn't the end, this is just the beginning for our friendship to grow closer than before. I made a promise to Elena, and I intend to keep it. I won't let anyone fall, I'll make them rise up and get them standing on their own two feet....heh heh, I almost sound just like Ren. Oh well, I guess he's been rubbing off of me, huh? But anyway, I promise Elena that I won't let you down and...I'll find a way to get back home to see you again. I promise...



Meanwhile
Discord is seen in some place where time and space are distorted. He looks around with a bored sigh.

"Great, now I'm trapped here again...what are the odds of that?" Discord said to himself.

"So, you're once again in your stony prison Discord? What a shame." Discord narrowed his eyes, recognizing that voice anyway. He slowly turned around, seeing his shadow raising up, with red eyes glowing before taking shape into some shadowy figure.

It was a figure wearing a white cloak outfit that hides his face, but the figure is wearing a dark mask with his left eye visible through a red visor, but his right eye is covered with a dark lightning bolt piece, almost like a scar. He also had a sun and moon crest on his cloak. It also seemed that he had a dark ruby-like gem sticking out of his chest.

"Great...and just as I was about to have fun." Discord sighed. "What do you want?"

"I've been watching your progress when you tried to take over Equestria, but then I noticed those filthy humans, along with those pathetic ponies defeated you. It's ironic really that you got turned into stone again by those fools." The figure chuckled, annoying Discord.

"Don't you have somewhere else to be? Besides, we haven't seen each other for 1,000 years, not since....you know." Discord smiled.

"What of it?" The figure asked, feeling irritated.

"Oh nothing, it just that ever since that day you showed up, you exterminated everyone because of 'justice', right?" Discord raised a brow.

"What I've done IS justice. Those filthy fools I call a 'species', always thinking about greed, power, and not showing care nor mercy, I did what I had to do. But I'm angry is that you didn't kill those nine humans like I told you to do. What were you thinking?" The figure put two of his fingers on his head, trying to calm himself down.

"Well, about that...they're seemed to be a change of plans. I want them to suffer like how I suffer." Discord smiled evilly before crossing his arms. "Besides, it fun seeing them pointlessly being determined to get back home until they learned the truth what happened to their homes. Ooh, how fun to see their depressed looks."

The shadow figure remained silent until he spoke up "...You really haven't change, have you?" Discord shrugged as the figure sighed and said "Oh well, as long as they don't interfere with my plans to exterminate this world once again, but then again, it won't be too soon before I make my big debut to them."

"Sure, you will." Discord rolled his eyes. "You're going to destroy those ponies along with those last humans, right?"

"Indeed." The figure nodded. "Those ponies are no better than humans, which is quite ironic."

"Whatever, I rather stay here alone in my prison. It won't be too soon until I make my return..." Discord winked off-screen, which made the shadowy figure sighed in annoyance.

"Say what you want, besides, I just don't understand why you gave those nine humans mercy but instead took away their memories..." The figure said before chuckling darkly. "Are you simply going soft on them? Or simply amusement to calm down your insanity?"

"What are you implying?" Discord narrowed his eyes at him.

"I'm simply speaking the truth. After I went to hibernate in the meteorite for thousands of years, I simply watched these ponies around Equestria, even you. You took over Equestria once so that you can calm your own sanity, but failed. But not because of the princesses, but because you were overconfident. Besides, even beneath that insantiy and cocky attitude of yours, still lives the old you inside."

Discord growled at him in annoyance and anger as the figure continued "Remember, that I given you those chaotic powers through the power of the dark comet."

"More like I got struck in the back by it, and meeting you in my mind." Discord sighed.

"Besides that, you're still the old loser you were. A man wanting revenge against those nine selected humans for taking everything away from you. Are you simply trying to forget that event, even your-"

"YOU LEAVE HER OUT OF THIS!" Discord yelled angrily. The figure simply laughed at him and said "Oh, so it seems the old fool still remembers her to this day, huh? Oh well, it doesn't matter. My hibernation is already over, so I must continued exploring this new reborn world and watch over those humans and the bearers of the Elements of Harmony for my own amusement, and this time, I simply won't fail to exterminate them...unlike you."

"Just...leave now..." Discord turned away, not eager to speak with him. The figure shook his head before disappearing through the darkness, not until he spoke his last words "Just remember Discord, they took everything away from you. I can still taste your depression and despair...MWAHAHAHA..."

Discord didn't turn around to see the figure disappeared as he formed a sad look and a tear was seen simply falling off his eye. 

"....Was it really the right choice to gain these powers and got turn into what I am today? I mean, sure they forgotten about me in the past, but still...is this what I really want?" Discord muttered sadly as he was left alone in his stony prison.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 31 - Lesson Zero
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Three weeks has past since then. One week which is when we defeated Discord and prevented Equestria from falling into his hands from turning the world into his free chaos state, and the other is when we waited for Mason to be awakened from the hospital and telling us about his and Carrie's childhood, and third...well actually, nothing happened much. We resumed our normal lives since then, but with new things happening lately. Kaede decided to help out Rarity and also learning more about clothes and costume designing, since she stated that she still has a long way to go.

Mason began training intensely lately ever since his battle with Discord, and he's been putting a lot of effort lately. Carrie has been watching her older brother watch over him, just in case he doesn't overwork himself. Meanwhile with me and Kodi, I've been heading over to Fluttershy's cottage and try to learn more about romance, and I mean literally. It's quite difficult for me to understand it since I don't know the concept on that.

Anyway, I getting way off topic, it's best if we continue the story. We were outside of Fluttershy's cottage, teaching Kodi some basic tricks that dogs do.

"Go fetch the stick boy!" I threw the stick high into the air while Kodiak went after it.

"I got it! I got it! I got it!" Kodi kept chanting as he went after it. Fluttershy chuckled at his playfulness and said "Tee-hee, it seems that Kodiak is really enjoying this."

"Tell me about it." I rubbed my head bashfully with a grin on my face. "I was planning on doing this for a while, but I kinda keep getting distracted."

"Really?" Fluttershy looked at me with a raised brow. "Like what?"

"Uhh..." Should I tell her that I keep getting distracted by reading comics and playing video games lately?...Nah. "It's best if we forget about that and let's focus on training Kodi."

"Okay?" Fluttershy shrugged as we saw Kodi coming back with the stick in his mouth. 

"I got it!" Kodi muffled since he got the stick stuck inside of his mouth. "I did good, right Ren?"

"You sure did good, bud!" I said, scratching him underneath the chin. "Who's a good boy? Who's a good boy? That's you!"

"Mm-hmm! I'm a good boy!" Kodi said as he dropped the stick and laid on his back, chuckling as I began scratching his tummy. 

Fluttershy couldn't but smile at our bond and said "You two are getting along so close. It's nice to see a relationship between a boy and his dog."

"Ahh, thanks Flutters." I chuckled. Kodi got up and barked happily before saying "Yeah! I mean, Ren is a good friend! I've been getting good at fetching lately!"

Kodi wagged his little tail as Fluttershy gave him a little kiss on the head. "That's nice. Speaking of which, I should head over to go and do Harry's massage."

"Harry?" I asked, not familiar with that name. Is she one of Fluttershy cute little animal friends of hers?

"Oh, he's a very nice friend of mine that I've been taking care of for a while." Fluttershy explained with a soft smile.

"Ah, I see." I nodded. You see, I'm quite curious to know about this Harry animal friend of hers. Suddenly, I felt my stomach rumble, causing me to blush a little. "Ha ha...I guess I am getting a little hungry. I should go over and get something to eat."

"Ooh! Let's go to Sugarcube Corner!" Kodi proposed. "I mean, I really want to eat some of those sweets!"

"Sure, why not? Do you want something from that place, Flutters?" I asked curiously. Fluttershy rubbed her chin for a bit until she answered "Maybe some cupackes? Those sound lovely."

"Got it! And I got just enough bits for them." I nodded with a smile. "Come on Kodi! Let's go!" 

"Yes, Ren!" Kodi nodded as we began to head our way back into Ponyville. You know, it's good to see Ponyville back to normal from its chaos state. For a second there, I thought Discord was going to turn this into some empire of his. Thank goodness we were able to transform him back to stone. 

"Hey Ren? You okay?" My thoughts were cut-off as I turned to Kodi, who tilted his head in confusion for me. 

"Oh yeah, sorry. I was just thinking about stuff." I replied with a soft smile before noticing a little something about Kodi. "Hey you know, you're looking a little bigger than I remember."

"Huh?" Kodi blinked in confusion. "What are you talking about? I still look fine."

"Well, you look a little taller, that's all." I shrugged while we walked through town. I wasn't kidding, he looks a little bigger, wonder if he's hitting puberty? 

"Really?" Kodi asked, getting excited that he's wagging his tail. "I need to see a mirror to check myself!"

"Alright, once we get our lunch, we'll head back to Fluttershy's cottage and find a mirror to check yourself." I suggested as we finally arrived to Sugarcube Corner. Once we entered the place, we saw both Twilight and Spike speaking with Mrs. Cake. "Twilight?"

"Huh?" Twilight and Spike turned around to see me and Kodi appear. "Oh, Ren. I never expected to see here." Twilight said, smiling at me.

"Well, me and Kodi were here to grab a bite, and get peach pies for Flutters." I replied with a smile. "What are you and Spike are doing here? Getting a quick bite as well?"

"Nah, Twilight and I are ordering some cupcakes for a big picnic we're having later." Spike answered. 

"That's right dearies." Mrs. Cake nodded as she handed Twilight a box filled with frosty cupcakes. I even saw Kodi and Spike drooling over those cupcakes.

"Alright, cupcakes check!" Twilight brought up a clipboard and made a quick check mark on it.

"What's up with the clipboard?" I asked curiously, taking a good look at it as I took it from her. "What the? Quills? Parchment? Ink? Extra Ink? Extra Extra Ink? Double-check checklist?" 

"Wow, that's a lot of extras." Kodi said, surprised by it.

"Oh that? That's my morning checklist." Twilight answered with a grin, causing me and Kodi to jaw-dropped. 

"She's kidding, right Spike?" I asked, which he shook his head and said "Nope."

"Unbelievable..." Okay, that mare is some serious problems with something like that. But hey, at least she comes prepared. 

"Hey! That's what I am." Twilight used her magic to swipe the clipboard away from my hands as she looked over the box of cupcakes as she formed a confuse look. "Wait, I see thirteen. I ordered a dozen."

"There was an extra made, so it's a baker's dozen." Mrs. Cake replied, letting out a giggle.

"What's a baker's dozen?" Kodi asked.

"It means thirteen items, not twelve." I answered. "Trust me, my mom and I once bought a dozen boxes of donuts, and we got the baker's dozen for free."

"Wait, why would you and your mom buy twelve boxes of donuts?" Spike asked, raising a brow at me.

"Well, I got them for my thirteenth birthday." I shrugged. "Besides, my mom works at an insurance company that pays hard cash."

"What's a company?" Kodi questioned.

"And insurance? That's new to me." Spike rolled his eyes. Well, I feel like I'm nothing more than an answering machine if I'm gonna keep answering these questions for them.

"Okay, but still..." Twilight looked at the cupcakes with a raised brow. "The extra cupcake's getting icing on the others and making them completely uneven."

"I can fix that!" Spike offered.

"Me too!" Kodi said as he tried to get the extra cupcake from Twilight before Spike does, but Twilight used her magic to levitate them away from it, causing them to pout.

I sighed and shook my head before saying "But Twilight, it's just icing, no big deal."

Spike winced and said "I really shouldn't have said that."

"Why?" I asked with a raised brow until I was grabbed by the neck collar and been confronted by an annoyed and yet angry Twilight. 

"No big deal?! NO BIG DEAL!?" Twilight shouted in anger. "I don't want everypony else getting more icing than the other when we're at the picnic!" She dropped me on the floor as Twilight grabbed a spatula from the back of the house and began trying to even out the icing on the cupcakes. "Okay, now, I just move this over here, and that little bit there..."

"But Twilight, it don't need to be per-" Unfortunately, I was cut-off as a little bit of icing hit my face. Kodi jumped on my shoulder and licked my face, tasting the delicious icing. I couldn't help but join in as well.

"Mmm...you taste delicious." Kodi chuckled. I wiped some of the icing and licked it, causing me to smile.

"I do indeed taste delicious, Kodi." I smiled until I noticed Twilight was getting icing all over the place, causing me and Kodi to duck down for cover by hiding underneath the table. Mrs. Cake did the same thing while Spike went on and catch and eat any traces of icing that flies towards his direction. Huh, lucky.

"Perfect!" Twilight said, finishing it up. 

"...Oh dear." Mrs. Cake said, wiping some of the icing off her face. As soon as Twilight closed the box and carried it on her back, she saw us covered in some icing.

"Next time, give us a heads up." I muttered as Kodi licked some of the icing off the ground. 

"Oops..." Twilight said, smiling sheepishly. "Maybe we should add 'Give Spike a bath' on the list." Spike licked all the frosting off of him, which made me widened my eyes upon seeing his long tongue. "Still giving you a bath. That was gross. Well anyway, I'll see you and Kodi at the picnic later! I already send out letters to everypony else to let them know."

"Okay, see ya Twi." I waved goodbye to both her and Spike as they left Sugarcube Corner. I wiped away the remaining icing off my face before turning to Mrs. Cake. "Sorry about the mess she made. We can help out if you want."

"Ahh, thanks dearie." Mrs. Cake smiled. "But didn't you need something?"

"Yeah Ren, I'm starving." Kodi complained. I chuckled and said "Oh right. Do you mind if we had a dozen vanilla and chocolate cupcakes.

"You got it!" Mrs. Cake immediately headed over to the kitchen as I grabbed some nearby mops and began cleaning up Twilight's mess. Man, and I thought that Twilight was known for being the perfectly spotless student. I then noticed Kodi licking some of the icing on the floor, causing me to scold him and said "Kodi! Don't eat on the floor!"

"Sorry! I just can't handle myself!" Kodi said as he continued to licking it while wagging his tail. I sighed and allowed him to do it. Besides, it's not like nobody is going to stop him. Five minutes later, all of the icing was gone the moment Mrs. Cake came in and became amazed to see her store spotless.

"Oh my! This place looks so spotless like it was the first time me and Carrot first opened shop." Mrs. Cake said with a wide smile. She put down the box of cupcakes as I put down the mop and walked over to check them over. I opened the box and saw how delicious they look. 

"And I guess this is a baker's dozen, right?" I asked curiously.

"That's right!" Mrs. Cake nodded before looking at me worriedly. "But you aren't...you know."

"Nah, that was sorta a Twilight thing." I assured with a grin. "Here ya go!"

I gave her just the right bits to pay for the cupcakes, which she happily accepted as me and Kodi exited out of Sugarcube Corner. Kodi began jumping around me, wanting a bite of them.

"Come on, Ren! Let me take a bite of them! Pretty please?!" Kodi begged, giving me the puppy eyes. Ooh, who can even resist something like that? I bet even Mason and Fluttershy couldn't even reject such an offer in front of something so cute like Kodi. I took out a chocolate icing cupcake to Kodi as he ate the whole thing in one bite. "Hmm...chocolate-y."

"Heh heh, of course you like it." I rolled my eyes. I'm still a little shock that he can even eat chocolate and fudge. Like I said before, this place is like a paradise where death probably doesn't exist at all. While we headed towards outside of Ponyville, I began to wonder about Twilight and her huge list from earlier before. 

I have never seen such a long list before, well maybe some on cartoons, but never before in person. I mean, does she really need such a long list? Oh, who am I saying? She's Twilight, the world's most smartest Unicorn who's prepared for anything she faces, despite her...issues on perfection, that is. 

Soon, me and Kodi finally arrived to the cottage as we headed to the door.

"This is going to be awesome! I can't wait to see the look on Fluttershy's face when she takes a bite of them!" Kodi exclaimed with a smile, wagging his tail.

"Oh trust me, she's gonna love them!" I assured as I was about to knock on the door, until we heard some sound. Strange, it was coming from the back of her house. Well, I'm sure Fluttershy wouldn't mind if we headed over to the back and check it out. "Hey, what was that?" Kodi asked.

"Don't know, let's go check it out." I said as we headed to the backyard of Fluttershy's cottage, only to find a crazy and insane scene. "What the heck?!" I exclaimed as I saw Fluttershy...wrestling a bear! She was holding him down, and judging how intense it was going, I say the bear isn't going to win!

"What's going on?!" Kodi exclaimed in shock.

"...Honestly, I have no idea." I shook my head, flabbergasted by this scene. I've never seen Fluttershy go so violent against an animal, well...more specifically, a wild grizzly bear. As she kept bending its back, pounding his face into the ground very hard, she pushed the final straw by twisting the bear's neck, making us all hear a powerful and painful snap as it fell and lied prone to the ground. This caused me and Kodi to jaw-dropped upon seeing this. Holy crap-baskets...she...please tell me this is a dream....

"Hm? Oh hey Ren, and Kodi." Fluttershy noticed us and waved hello to us. Before any of us could respond, I hear some moaning sound as I glanced at and saw Twilight with a bewilderment expression before she slowly took her leave. I'm not even going to question on why she was here....and suddenly, I suddenly felt my knees gave in and before you know it, I was knocked out. It's understandable after seeing such a scene like that. I...don't know how to explain this...Just please tell me this was all a bad dream....



"Ren....Ren....Ren!....WAKE UP!"

"GAH!" I immediately opened my eyes and looked around to find myself in a living room, but it wasn't the home-ship's living room. This living room was Fluttershy's...Oh right, that scene we bore witnessed to. Holy crap, thank goodness it was a dream.

"Ren?" I let out a shriek before seeing both Fluttershy and Kodi looked at me with worried and concern. "Oh Ren! You're awake!" Fluttershy immediately gave me a hug, which was quite a tight hug for a shy little pony like her.

"Yeah! We thought you were dead!" Kodi exclaimed.

"Kodiak!" Fluttershy scolded him gently.

"What? You were thinking of that too, right?" Fluttershy let out a sigh at Kodi's obliviousness before turning back to me with a soft smile.

"Oh well, at least you're finally awake Ren." Fluttershy sighed in relief.

"Yeah, but how did I end up here? And where did the box of cupcakes go?" I wondered.

"Oh, I put them over at the kitchen, and me and Harry had to bring you here while Kodi carried the box of cupcakes on his back while you were unconscious." Fluttershy explained.

"Harry?" I asked. Suddenly, I felt something breathing behind my neck as I slowly turned around and saw two sets of eyes looking directly at me. "GAAH!"

"R-Ren! Please calm down!" Fluttershy calmed me and the bear down. "Harry will never hurt a fly, let alone a human."

"Harry?!" I exclaimed in shock. Y-you mean to tell me that bear is...Harry?! "You mean he's Harry?!"

"Yes, I've been taken good care of him." Fluttershy smiled as she began rubbing underneath his chin, causing it let out a soft roar. Wow, he acts just like Kodiak whenever I do that to him. "See? Isn't he friendly?"

"I see, but earlier I saw you two fighting each other." I pointed out, which caused Fluttershy blushed and chuckle nervously as she said "Well you see Ren, apparently I was actually giving him a massage."

"Wait what?" I questioned, sweat-dropping. "Massage?"

"Well...that's kinda weird to give a bear a massage." Kodi raised a brow, confused by that. 

"I have to agree, it almost look like you were strangling that bear." I said before turning to Harry with a nervous grin. "No offense Harry."

The bear growled, apologizing to me with a sad look. Before you know it, he gave a lick on the face, which I could feel a whole bunch of his drool on my face. It brought me back a smile and said "Heh heh, okay, you're okay in my book, Harry."

Fluttershy let out a giggle and said "It seems that Harry accepted your apology."

"Yeah, seems so." I rubbed my head bashfully with a smile. Suddenly, I then remember Twilight being there right before I passed out. "Oh yeah, I saw Twilight right before I blacked out, where is she?"

"Oh, I didn't see her there. But if she was, I take it she misunderstood the situation as well." Fluttershy said with a worried smile. "But anyway, I want to thank you for buying those cupcakes."

"Anytime Flutters." I nodded with a grin.

"Hey! What about me?! I helped too!" Kodi jumped with a pout on his face. Fluttershy petted his face and assured "Don't worry Kodiak, I didn't forget you. Thanks for watching over Ren from getting distracted."

"Hey!" I shouted out, feeling offensive. I do not get distracted that easily, that's what Pinkie Pie would do!

"Anytime Fluttershy!" Kodi thanked. 

"You know..." Fluttershy gazed upon the box filled with cupcakes with a soft smile. "Maybe those cupcakes could be a good used for the picnic."

"Picnic?" I repeated, remembering something that Twilight spoke earlier. "Oh yeah, Twilight said something about a picnic. Guess I forgotten about it."

"Well, everypony else is gathering over at the picnic. I mean, if you want to come that is...." Fluttershy blushed a little, causing me to grin.

"Are you kidding? No way I would want to miss this!" I exclaimed, eager to go to the picnic to hang out with all my friends. That brighten up Fluttershy's smile as she said "That's nice to hear, Ren. After all, I hear that picnic gatherings can also be romantic for couples."

"R-really?" I asked, feeling a little surprised by it. Ever since Fluttershy admitted her feelings for me a few weeks ago, she's been teaching me about romantic connections, like how couples date each other. You know, I'm starting to think about watching those romantic comedies back then to understand more about this.

"Sure, I mean, it must be nice to be with your special somepony, right?" Fluttershy blinked, blushing a little. It caused me to blush and said "O-oh! S-sure, I see why not, Flutters! Come on guys, let's go!"

"Okay! Bye Harry! I hope we see each other again!" Kodi waved goodbye to him, who let out a growl, probably bear talk that he's saying goodbye to Kodiak as well. I grabbed the box of cupcakes from the dining room table as soon as Fluttershy brought her flower basket and we began to leave out of her cottage.

"Please watch over the place, will ya Angel?" Fluttershy asked as her little prized bunny, 'Angel', was sitting on the counter table, munching on a carrot. Angel nodded before glaring at me and giving me the 'I'm watching you' gesture. I feel like that bunny just loves to be spoiled and taunt ponies, does it? "Come on Ren, let's go!"

We exited out of the cottage and began heading over to the picnic area. The only problem is that I don't know where it is. 

"So...do you know where it is, Fluttershy?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Mm-hmm! It's up on the same hill we had where we watched the meteors." Fluttershy answered, pointing over to the tall hill over a distance. Oh right, who can forget that? I remembered watching those meteorites falling down to the skies while Mason and Spike helped set up the picnic. It feels like yesterday since we did that whole event.

"Alright, let's go!" I said, taking out a little capsule from my pockets. I pushed the button, threw it into the air, and releasing my hoverboard. I jumped onto it, along with Kodi as we flew towards the direction of the hill. Fluttershy flew next to me, although she was flying a little slower than the board. "Huh? Hey Fluttershy, you alright?"

"Oh, I'm fine Ren..." Fluttershy smiling before frowning a bit. "I'm just not a fast flyer like Rainbow Dash."

"Ah..." I nodded in understanding. Wow, I never knew that about her. I thought all Pegasi were fast flyers, but then again, I guess not all like Dash. "I see, well I'll slow a bit so I won't go farther ahead of ya."

Fluttershy smiled happily as she said "Ahh, thank you Ren. That's nice of you." 

I nodded as I slowly decrease the speed of the hoverboard as we slowly soar through mid-air. Kodi began complaining and exclaimed "Why are we slowing down?! I wanna go faster!"

"Be patient Kodi, we're just slowing down a bit." I assured. "Besides, the hill isn't that far."

"Okay..." Kodi sighed as he glances towards the bottom of the ground, seeing the greenery down here. I took notice of it and became amazed how lush and beautiful it is down here.

"Wow...it's sure is beautiful up here, isn't it?" I said with a soft smile, looking down at the ground.

"Yeah, the sky, the greenery, it's all beautiful." Fluttershy giggled as I continued to gaze upon it. Huh, maybe I should fly up here and enjoy the scenery all the time? Who knows? It might help give me new artistic-



W-what? What's going on? I began to hear scream of agony as I gaze upon the skies to see countless meteors falling down towards the city and into my neighborhood. Why...Why is this happening?! Suddenly, a peculiar meteor crashed into right next to my home's front yard, catching me by surprise. I slowly walked towards the meteor, and saw how flashy it was. It looked pretty weird for a meteorite because it was shining bright pink. I slowly extend my hand towards it, letting my curiosity get the best of me. Why am I so drawn so towards it? Why?



"Ren? Ren?"

"H-huh?" I looked around, seeing myself still up in the sky on my hoverboard while Fluttershy was looking at me with a concern look.

"Ren, are you alright?" Fluttershy asked. "You...um...sorta daze out there for a bit."

"Oh...it's nothing, honest." I assured as I put my hand on my head. Was that...another memory? I can't remember it that often. Looks like some of the locks that Luna was able to break opened up some new memory, but what did it explain? It didn't show me that much except for some meteors falling over, right? Why did I see that? Just...what's happening back on my world?

"Hey look! Everypony else arrived!" Huh? We turned around to see the gang resting upon a blanket with a bunch of food on the tray. I smiled upon seeing them relaxing and all as I shouted "Hey! Everypony!"

Everypony else looked up to see me, Kodi, and Fluttershy descending towards the ground and walking towards them with the cupcakes in my hands.

"Oh hey Ren! Glad you could make it!" Kaede chuckled as we settled down on the picnic blanket. "We were wondering what was taking so long."

"Heh heh, it's a long story..." I rubbed my head bashfully after putting the box of cupcakes on the blanket.

"Well you can tell us right after we enjoy our lovely night here." Rarity said, sitting on a couch, causing me to raise a brow, which she noticed. "What? You expect me to sit on the grass? Of course not! It might ruined my tail! I just brushed it this morning."

"Okay..." I raised a brow before noticing that we're one pony short. "Hey, where's Twilight? I saw her earlier ago by Fluttershy's cottage when me and Kodi came back to Sugarcube Corner when we bought those cupcakes."

"Wait? She came to Fluttershy's cottage?" Mason questioned as Carrie and the two little pet squirrels of theirs began taking out some cupcakes and began eating them. 

"Yeah, why?" 

"Oh no..." Applejack muttered with a sigh before turning to me with a worried look. "She didn't come by and asked you something about if there was a problem, right?"

"No, not at all." Fluttershy shook her head before asking "Why?"

"Well something's up with her lately." Rainbow answered.

"Really? I didn't noticed a thing." Pinkie said, causing us to give her blank looks. "What?"

"I agree with Rainbow..." Kaede nodded before taking a sip of some apple juice. "She's been acting quite strange when she came by the Carousel Boutique."

"Really? What happened?" Kodi asked curiously as I took a bite of a vanilla icing cupcake, eager to hear Kaede's story.

"Well, it all started when me and Rarity were making some clothes as she was teaching me more about designing and such..." Kaede began telling her story, starting off from the events from earlier ago.



Two Hours Ago

"Ah! There we go! Excellent work Kaede!" Rarity praised as Kaede successfully made a beautiful violet dress in pony size that is. Kaede decided to help Rarity on making some dresses for ponies while also learning about the right size for making costumes and dresses for ponies.

Kaede wiped away a sweat and said "Phew, took about half-and-hour, but at least it was worth it. I'm starting to get good on making pony dresses and costumes."

"Quite right, darling." Rarity nodded in agreement before gazing at the outfit with a thoughtful look on her face, which Kaede noticed. 

"Huh? Something wrong Rarity?" Kaede asked in concern.

"Oh nothing, Kaede. It's just that I feel like it's missing something..." Rarity rubbed her chin in thought.

Kaede realized this and agreed with Rarity on that. "Yeah...missing something, indeed...but what?" Kaede wondered. Rarity opened her eyes with a grin on her face.

"I know! I should use my diamond encrusted purple ribbon! It might be the trick to make the dress more fabulous!" Rarity declared as she walked upstairs to go and fetch her diamond encrusted purple ribbon. Once she came to her room, she used her magic to open the draws, revealing nothing inside.

Rarity let out a gasp and...

"AHHHHHHHH!" Kaede covered her ears, trying not to go deaf from Rarity's scream. 

"What the?!" Kaede exclaimed, shocked by the scream coming upstairs. Suddenly, the doors opened, revealing a concern and panicking Twilight. 

"Rarity! What's wrong?!" Twilight asked, rushing towards her side. Rarity came down slowly, weeping in sorrow.

"Oh! Why meeeeee?!" Rarity cried as she continued to whined "WHYYYY?! WHY? WHYYYY?! And of all the worst things that could happen, this is THE. WORST. POSSIBLE. THING!"

She immediately fell over right before using her magic to grab a nearby couch and fall over it. 

"Okay, but what is it?" Kaede wondered.

"Yes! What's happened? Are you alright?! Do you need help?!" Twilight asked, eager to help with a smile, which confuses Kaede. 

"Umm...you seem eager to help out Rarity." Kaede said with a raised brow.

"Of course! As your number #1 best friend, I'm always there to solve any friendship problems!" Twilight declared, surprising Kaede. "So Rarity, what happened?! Tell. Me. Everything!"

Rarity wiped away her tears and sniffled a bit, before saying "I've lost my diamond encrusted purple ribbon! I have searched high, and I have searched low! Low and high! High and low! But I can't find it anywhere! Anywheeeeere! How can I possibly finish my latest creation if I can't find it?" Rarity exclaimed as tears streamed down her face. 

Kaede sweat-dropped from how dramatic Rarity acted. "You've only searched upstairs in your room, Rarity..." Kaede sighed.

"Well don't you worry, Rarity!" Twilight assured. "I swear that I shall-"

"Hm?" Kaede noticed something inside some nearby bucket and it was sparkling. She walked towards and took it out, revealing to be the diamond encrusted purple ribbon. "Hey Rarity, isn't this it?"

"Huh?" Rarity looked into the couch, seeing what was on Kaede's palm. "Oh there it is!" She smiled, acting back into her cheerful self and stopped crying as she got up from the couch and began walking towards her. "Thank you Kaede! Thank you so much! Where was it?!"

"It was in a bucket..." Kaede answered with a sigh. 

"Oh..." Rarity chuckled nervously. "Isn't it always just the last place you look?" Rarity took it from her hands and began cutting pieces from it.

"So...you just lost your ribbon?" Twilight questioned with a raised brow.

"Mm-hm!" Rarity nodded.

"...But now you've found it?"

"Yeah-huh!"

"....And nothing else is bothering you? Nothing that I, as a good friend could help you with?" She asked, twitching her right eye, which bugged me out.

"Hmm..." Rarity thought until she said "There is one thing."

"Yes?" Twilight asked with a big smile on her face.

"I think I left my measuring tape under the fabric over there." Rarity pointed to some fabric nearby and walked off back to my design. "Could you get that for me?"

Twilight sighed sadly and said "Measuring tape? Sure." Twilight used her magic to grab the measuring tape and placed it in front of Rarity. 

"Is there something wrong Twilight? You seemed...let down." Kaede said with a worried look.

"It's nothing..." Twilight sighed before beaming into excitement as she turned to Kaede. "But say...Kaede, are you having any troubles with Rarity?! Do you need me as a good friend to solve this issue?!"

"Umm...Me and Rarity are fine." I sweat-dropped, raising my hands in surrender. 

"Oh...Okay..." Twilight sighed before taking her leave. "I guess I'll see you all later then..." She walked out of the store, with Kaede raised a brow at her...behavior lately.

"Umm...goodbye, Twilight?" Kaede muttered, waving goodbye to her. 

"Hm? Where did Twilight go?" Rarity wondered, seeing her gone. Kaede sighed and said "She went off after she gave you your measuring tape, but right now, I think it's best if we headed back to our work. But first, about you acting dramatic earlier....really?" 

Kaede raised a brow at her with a serious expression, which made Rarity chuckle nervously. 
Flashback Ended



"Okay, that IS weird." I said, blinking in surprise. Did Twilight seriously acted so eager to help a friend? I mean, it's not a problem, but the way Kaede described about Twilight's behavior was very strange.

"Yeah, I mean, she just asked you two for something about your issues?" Kodi wondered. 

"Yeah, she never acts like that." Kaede said, feeling worried for her.

"Well, I'm sure she was asking for our concern, that's all." Fluttershy assured.

"Really?" Mason asked, raising a brow at her. "Because earlier back at Sweet Apple Acres, while I was training..." Mason began telling his story, involving something that happened back an hour ago.



One Hour Ago
Mason is seen training by practicing on his bamboo pole tactics as he slammed his bamboo pole into an apple tree, causing many apples to fall down. 

"Oh!" Carrie immediately headed over and picked up some apples, taking a bite of it. "Mm...these apples are so good! No wonder why everypony here love these kinds of apples!" Mason chuckled at his little sister, seeing her enjoy eating those apples. "Want some Mason? You've been working so hard lately." 

"Thank you, Carrie." Mason smiled, accepted it as he took a bite of it. Suddenly, a new voice appeared.

"Hey there Mason! Carrie!" They turned around to see Twilight walking over through the farm fields of Sweet Apple Acres. "How are things going? Do you guys need something that only your best friend could solve!"

Mason raised a brow at his unicorn friend before answering "Umm...No, we're fine." 

"Are you sure? Not having no issues with your sister? Do you need help in your training?!" Twilight begged, which made Mason and Carrie back away in fear.

"No, we're good Twilight." Mason assured.

"Yeah, besides, I'm watching over my big brother in case he gets tired out from doing his training too much." Carrie added, hiding behind her brother.

"...Alright..." Twilight sighed sadly before noticing a bunch of apples on the ground, making her beam into excitement. "But maybe I can help pick up all these apples for Applejack, right?"

"Applejack is busy with Rainbow Dash for a moment. You see-"

Suddenly, they began to hear some grunting as they looked back to see Rainbow Dash flying through the old barn, destroying everything in it's path. 

"What in the world...?" Twilight raised a brow before letting out a gasp. "Rainbow must be angry with Applejack! She must hate her guts! How wonderful!"

"What?" Mason and Carrie asked in unison. Before they could say anything else, Twilight immediately ran straight towards the scene.

"Twilight! Wait up!" Carrie called for her.

"Stop! That's not what's going on!" Mason added as they began chasing after the purple Unicorn. 

As Rainbow Dash was about to finish off the barn, Twilight pulled her away by levitating her away from it. "Rainbow Dash! Stop! Listen, Rainbow. I know you're upset with Applejack, but don't worry. Whatever it is that has come between you two, I'm sure that I, as a good friend, can help you resolve your problems." Twilight assured.

"Uh, what are you talking about?" Rainbow Dash questioned, not following what Twilight meant. 

"Oh, Rainbow Dash, you don't have to hide your feelings from me! I can tell you two must've had a terrible fight." Twilight smiled. She soon used her magic to grabbed a nearby bench and settled Rainbow down, and began asking her some questions. "Now, why don't you tell me all about your issues with Applejack."

"I don't have any issues with Applejack." Rainbow said, looking at Twilight deadpanned.

"She's right." Mason said, walking towards them with a serious expression. "She was told to destroy the old barn by none other than Applejack."

"Wait...she was asked to destroy it by Applejack? Why?" Twilight asked incredulous.

"Well she said she wants to put up a new barn, right Applejack?" Carrie asked curiously as she noticed Applejack walking by.

"Darn tooting, Carrie!" Applejack nodded with a smile. "I wanted to put up a new barn, but this one's gotta come down first. Hehe...Now get back to it, R.D."

"You got it, boss!" Rainbow saluted as she flew high into the sky, ready to tear it down. 

"Don't worry about Twi, we got this all covered." Applejack assured with a grin.

"By the way Applejack, I want to thank you for allowing me to train here in your farm." Mason thanked with a bow. Applejack chuckled at his politeness as she replied "Anytime Mason, but I gotta thank ya for knocking some of the apples off the tree for me. Though, I could've done it myself."

"But please, I just wanted to help out and make up for not telling me and Carrie's childhood life." Mason said, frowning a bit.

"Oh, let it go Mason!" Carrie nudged her brother on the shoulder. "That's all in the past!"

"More like a week ago..." Mason sighed, rubbing his arm. 

"Come on Mason, everything is alright now! They've accepted us! I mean, Elena did want you to have more friends after all." Carrie shrugged with a smile, which made Mason grin.

"Yeah...you're right." Mason chuckled, ignoring that Twilight let out a groan in annoyance and began walking away in anger as soon as Rainbow Dash came crashing down in a Sonic Rainboom. 

"INCOMING!" Rainbow yelled before she completely blew up the barn, nearly blowing everypony away. She came out of the barn with some little bruises, but was still okay. "Woo-hoo! Take that you barn!"

Mason, Carrie, and Applejack blinked in surprise, seeing how much it took for her to take down the entire place. Mason dusted himself off and muttered "Next time, give us a heads-up before doing something like that."

Applejack overheard him and nodded before saying "Agreed." 
Flashback Ended



"Okay, there is something going on with Twilight." I said, putting my hand on my head. "I mean, she was acting fine back when me and Kodi went over to Sugarcube Corner."

"Really?" Kaede said, surprised to hear that. "Then something must've happened to make her act like this. I mean, why is she going around asking if there's anything wrong?"

"Come to think of it..." Mason rubbed his chin in thought. "Anything that she asked is something friendship related, but why?"

"Who knows?" Rainbow shrugged. "It's probably just a Twilight thing she's going through." 

"A Twilight thing?" Kodi asked curiously.

"I mean that Twilight is acting up all worried and all that. I'm sure by the time she's done going through this...phase, she'll be back to normal." Rainbow answered, putting on her shades and relaxing underneath the sun. "Now if you excuse me, I'm trying to get a tan here."

"Okay?" Kodi raised a brow at her.

"Yeah, but still...I'm really worried about her." Carrie said, feeling bad for Twilight. 

"Same here." I nodded. "I mean, she's been acting up lately, I can hardly believe she would do something like this, right?" As if on cue, something fell down behind as everypony let out a gasp of shock, causing me to raise a brow. "What?" I asked, noticing the looks on their faces. I slowly turned around and saw a crippled up box of cupcakes. Strange, isn't this the same box Twilight had? So how?....

"Hi everypony!" GAH! Oh my god! That nearly scared me half to death! What was behind me wasn't the box of crippled up cupcakes, but it was Twilight, who looked like she woke up from the wrong side of the bed! I mean, look at her! Her mane is all messed up and she's giving me that creepy look along with that messed up grin of hers! What happened to her?!

"AH! Monster!" Kodi hid behind me as we bore gaze upon seeing Twilight in this...state...

"Umm...you alright, hun?" No! She is definitely not alright, Applejack! She looks like a zombie!

"No! I am not alright!" Twilight exclaimed in agony, causing Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow, Rarity, Kodi, and Carrie to gasp.

"It's just terrible!"

"Yes?" The girls and my dog asked.

"Simply awful!"

"Yes?!"

"It's the most horrific trouble I've ever been in and I really really really need your help!"

"YES?!"

"Could you please stop doing that and let Twilight tell us what's her problem as why she's been acting so weird lately?" Mason pleaded with half-lidden eyes, annoyed of them doing that. To be honest, even I was starting to get annoyed.

"My letter to Princess Celestia is almost overdue, and I haven't learned anything about friendship!" Twilight exclaimed, causing all the girls and Kodi to sigh in relief. Me and Mason looked at each other, confused by Twilight's problem. So wait, that's the issue? She haven't send a letter to Celestia all week? That...kinda not the issue.

"Oh thank goodness..." Fluttershy sighed in relief. "I thought something really awful had happened."

Twilight looked at her like she was crazy as she immediately teleported in front of me, Fluttershy, and Kodi, making strangling noises like she was having a heatstroke. "Something awful has happened!" She teleported to Rarity, which caused her to spit out her ice tea. "If I don't turn in the letter on time, I'll be tardy!" She reappared in the center of the picnic, startling Rainbow as she dropped her sunglasses in the process. "TARDY!"

We all looked at each other and began giggling over this, except Mason as he shook his head with a soft smile on his face. Twilight noticed this and began fuming in anger.

"I'm sorry Twilight, but this doesn't sound like a problem." Kaede smiled.

"Not a problem? NOT A PROBLEM?!" Twilight screamed.

"Now calm down, sugarcube." Applejack patted her on the back with a soft grin. "Kaede meant no offense, but it looks like somepony's getting themselves all worked up over nothing."

Twilight slapped Applejack's hooves away and exclaimed "This is not nothing! This is everything! I need you guys to help me find somepony with a problem I can fix before sundown! My whole life depends on it!"

"Oh Twilight, you're such a crack-up!" Pinkie giggled, falling over on her back while she laughed.

"Come on now." Applejack said, trying to calm Twilight down. "Have a seat and stop sweating the small stuff."

"Applejack is right." Mason nodded in agreement. "I'm sure that Princess Celestia won't mind if you're a little late. You need to relax and calm down, and ask her to give you more time..."

Twilight let out a loud annoyed groan and began walking away in anger. She looked back us and let out one more annoyed groan before running off and teleporting.

"Wow...I've never seen Twilight so upset before." Fluttershy said, feeling bad for not helping her.

"Oh, I've seen her mad, trust me." I said, remembering that time when she was trying to figure out Pinkie Pie's...logic.

"Oh, what a drama queen!" Rarity exclaimed with a smirk on her face, lying on her couch. We all looked at her with weird and deadpan looks.

"How ironic..." Mason sighed.

"Well, she does act like you when you whine about something." Kodi added.

"Ain't that the truth?" Kaede sighed. Rarity realized this as she cleared her throat and said "Mm. Relatively speaking..."

"Hey girls, I should go and check on her." I said, feeling worried for her. "I mean, I don't want her to feel upset and all that. I'm gonna go and try to cheer her up."

"Are you sure Ren? I can come and help out too." Kodi said, eager to come as well.

"Thanks pal, let' go." I nodded with a smile before looking back at the others. "I'll see you all later."

"See ya later, Ren." Kaede waved as we both headed to go and look for Twilight on our own. I just hope she doesn't do something too...dangerous.



"Wow, time sure flies, huh?" I wondered, seeing the sun already setting. 

"Yeah...." Kodi said, smiling softly at it before realizing something. "Didn't Twilight say that she needed to send the report by sun down?" 

"Oh yeah..." I forgot about that. I then shrugged and said "I just hope Twilight will understand that she can tell Princess Celestia that she needs more time to send her that friendship report. Huh? I noticed the Cutie-Mark Crusaders were playing a game of catch.

"Oh hey girls! What's up?" I called for them, gaining their attention.

"Oh hey Ren, Kodiak!" Apple Bloom greeted us. "Wanna play ball with us?"

I shook my head and replied "No thanks, I'm looking for Twilight."

"Why?" Sweetie Belle asked before letting out a sly grin. "Oooh! Is it because you're going for the hots for Twilight?"

I became shocked and exclaimed "What?! No way! T-Twilight doesn't even have the 'hots' for me at all!"

"Hey! Ren's right!" Apple Bloom glared at her friend. "Didn't you hear? He and Fluttershy are dating each other!"

"Yeah..." I nodded before realizing what she said. "Wait, what?" 

"What? You didn't know?" Apple Bloom looked at me with confusion. "Everypony's been talking to you about that since they've seen you two almost anywhere for a while." Holy crap, these ponies know how to spread rumors really fast. 

"Oh yeah, I guess he and Fluttershy are dating." Sweetie Belle shrugged, causing me to be shocked even more.

"W-well, I suppose that is...true, but anyway, let's move onto a different subject?" I suggested, sweat-dropping. I really don't like going through this.

"Yeah, besides I don't like talking about those mushy-stuff anyway." Scootaloo said, scrunching in disgust. Guess she's not the type of know about romance, same as me...Well, almost like me.

"Hey, is it just me or is that ball getting bigger?" Kodi said, looking past the Crusaders. I looked over behind them and saw that the ball was indeed growing larger and larger until it popped. That's when a familiar purple Unicorn appeared with the most creepiest grin I've ever seen. 

"Hi girls!" Twilight said in a tone that sound like she went totally insane...not, totally bananas!

We all widened our eyes as Apple Bloom fearfully replied "Oh, hi Twilight. How's it go-"

"Great! Just great!" Twilight answered, cutting Apple Bloom off before she twitched her eyes, which creep us out even more. "You three look like you're doing great too! Looks like three good friends who obviously don't need the help of another good friend!"

"Twilight..." I looked at her with a worried expression. "This isn't you. You need to calm down, go back home, and get some rest."

"Yeah, and do something with your face! It looks like you became a zombie!" Kodi exclaimed, getting tense around her.

"Rest? Rest?!" Twilight screeched. "I don't need any rest! I'm perfectly FINE!" Her eyes and ears began creepily twitched once again, which made me and Kodi pale. Okay, I'm seriously gonna need to find help in order to make her go back to normal. Before any of us could respond, she pulled out a doll with her magic and presented it to the Crusaders. "This is Smarty Pants! She was mine when I was your age, and now I want to give her to you!"

Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle went silent and just stared at the old doll with weird expressions.

"Uhh...she's...great?" Scootaloo said nervously.

"Yeaaaah...Great..." Apple Bloom smiled nervously.

"I really...like her...mane?" Sweetie Belle answered in a squeaky yet fear tone.

"She even comes with her own notebook and quill." Twilight squealed as she placed the small notebook on Scootaloo's hoof and the quill on Sweetie Belle's ear. "...For when you want to pretend she's doing her homework!" Twilight tilted her head and rubbed her hooves nervously.

"Okay, we need to stop this!" Kodi exclaimed, getting extremely worried for him. 

"Yeah, before it get's worse." I nodded as I yelled "Hey Twilight! What are you doing?!"

"What?! Is it wrong to give my wonderful friends a cute doll?!" Twilight exclaimed with a sinister smile. 

"Twilight, I'm serious." I said in a serious expression as I steadily grabbed my Hacking Gun, almost ready to shoot her with it. "What's going on with you?!"

"Well..." Twilight glanced away, seeing the three girls distracted while they looked at the doll with weird looks and trying to figure out what to do with it as they tried passing to each other. Twilight looked at me with a creepy grin on her face and explained "Since I can't find and solve a friendship problem, I'll just have to create one on my own!"

"What?! You can't do that!" I exclaimed in shock. "Twilight, snap out of it! You need to think of this and don't do this!"

"Too bad! Because it's happening!" Twilight exclaimed as she turned back to the girls, her horn glowing like she was about to cast some spell.

"Twilight stop!" I called, trying to make her stop from what she was planning to do.

"Twilight, NOOOOO!" Kodi yelled as he ran straight for her. Twilight soon fired her spell, which had hearts on them as it was heading straight for the doll. Soon, Kodiak interfere and was hit instead.

"KODI!" I called as I ran to his side. I immediately picked him up and saw that he slowly opened his eyes. "You okay bud?"

"I think so, but what just happened?" Kodi asked as I slowly began to wonder what's going on with me. Ever since Kodi got shot by Twilight's spell, I'm starting to act weird. I began rubbing my eyes, trying to stop from whatever's happening to me.

"I want it!" Huh? I looked down on my legs to see Scootaloo eyeing at Kodiak with heart shapes on her eyes. Uhh, what's going on?

"I need it!" Apple Bloom shouted, with heart shaped eyes as well.

"I really like his fur color!" Sweetie Belle smiled weirdly along with heart shaped eyes. What's going on with them?! I looked over to Twilight with a worried look without trying to look at Kodi. 

"Twilight, what's happening?" I asked, trying my best not to look at Kodi.

"Uh oh..." Twilight muttered, reverting her back to her old self as she widened her eyes in shock. "The 'want it, need it' spell hit Kodi, and now anypony that sees him will be affected by it."

"What?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"What kind of spell is that?!" Kodi asked, shock as well.

"It's a spell that makes anypony that sees anything that's been affected by it, make them feel too irresistible to handle their own free will and will chase after it!" Twilight explained, panicking.

"Oh no..." I muttered as the girls began climbing onto my pants. I yanked them off and allowed Kodi inside of my sweater.

"Kodi, stay in there!" I said.

"Okay! Just get me out of here!" Kodi exclaimed, looking out of my front part of the sweater while I covered my eyes, not wanting to be affected by the spell.

"I want it!" Scootaloo exclaimed, walking slowly towards me.

"I need it!" Apple Bloom said with a creepy grin.

"Give me that puppy! I always wanted one!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed as she began running towards me, along with the other girls.

"Ren, run!" Twilight yelled. "Get Kodiak away from them!"

"Don't have to tell me twice!" I said, not looking at my dog as I began running away in fear. Kodi was still inside of my sweater, so things should be alright, right? Unfortunately, Kodi came out from the hoodie and looked back in fear.

"Are they gone?" Kodi asked in fear.

"Kodiak! Get back inside!" I exclaimed as I noticed some ponies walking by before noticing me and Kodi, and once they got their eye on the dog, they were affected by the spell as well.

"MY MUFFIN!" A grey pony with blonde mane and tail came charging in, causing me to duck while Kodi bit on my hoodie, trying to get inside of my sweater.

"Keep running Ren!" Kodi muffled with his teeth biting through my sweater, trying to get back inside of my sweater.

"I'm trying!" I exclaimed as I saw more and more ponies chasing after me, well more specifically, Kodiak. "Aw crap! There's too many of them!"

Suddenly, I felt something in front of me as I was slammed real hard and fell on my butt as Kodi fell off as well. What the? Who the heck was in front of me like that?! I opened my eyes to see Big Mac in front of me, who noticed Kodi with a confused look before making a weird smile on his face.

"Eeyup!" Big Mac exclaimed as he tried to pounce at Kodi, who noticed it and dodged it and began running away in fear from everypony in town who was affected by the spell.

"Leave me alone! I know I'm cute, but I'm not THAT cute!" Kodi exclaimed as he kept jumping and dodging from all the mares and stallions. I soon got up and shook my head, seeing everypony chasing after Kodi. Oh right! Don't look at him or else you'll be affected as well! Oh, I better do something to save him...and fast! I immediately grabbed my Hacking Gun and aimed at them.

"Sorry about this everyone!" I said, shooting 'Paralyze' and 'Break' at them, either shocking or blasting them off. But no matter how many times I keep doing that, they keep coming back! Grr! I can't keep going on like this!

"What in the name of all things oats and apples is going on here?!" Huh?! I immediately turned around to see my friends rushing to the scene, seeing me blasting and paralyzing everypony with my Hacking Gun while they chased after Kodiak.

"Don't look at him!" Twilight pleaded, running towards the scene.

"Don't look at who?" Rarity asked, confused by it.

"It's Kodiak! I was supposed to enchant my Smarty Pants doll with my 'want it, need it' spell, but instead, Kodi got in the way and now everypony is fighting over him!"

"Why would you enchant Kodiak?" Carrie asked in shock.

"Oh, I had to do something! I had nothing to report to Princess Celestia! I thought if I couldn't find a problem, I'd make a problem! The day is almost over!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Twilight! How could you?!" Mason growled. "Do something and revert the spell!"

"I'm trying! But no matter what, everypony keeps getting in the way!" Twilight shouted. "I better hurry before the sun sets!"

"Well, it's too later now! Look!" Kaede pointed up at the sky, seeing the sun finally settling down and the moon rising up, much to Twilight's shock.

"No..." I heard Twilight muttered as she went paled, seeing how she failed. Suddenly, a familiar yet loud voice boomed through the area.

"TWILIGHT SPARKLE!" Huh? Hey, that almost sounded like....

"Hey, it's Princess Celestia!" Carrie pointed out as we saw Celeste descended from the skies and shot a powerful beam towards everypony, including Kodiak. Once the beam was gone, everypony blinked in confusion, wondering where were they doing. Soon, they began to take their leave while I ran straight towards Kodi, who was panting heavily from all the running he had to do.

"Kodi, you okay bud?" I asked in worried.

"Yeah...I think so..." Kodi panted. "Man, I really need to lay off those cupcakes..." Maybe, you should get a diet.

"Whoa nelly..." Applejack gasped in shock, seeing the incredible power of the princess. Wow, it's a good thing the princess came. She soon landed near my friends and looked at Twilight like she was disappointed.

"Meet me in the library." Celestia demanded as she began walking away, with Twilight sighing and looking at me and back at the others with a sad look.

"Goodbye everypony. If you care to visit, I'll be in magic kindergarten, back in Canterlot." Twilight began walking away, following the princess with depression.

"Wait, Magic Kindergarten?" Fluttershy asked incredulous.

"She's still talking about that?" Mason sighed.

"And did she say, Canterlot?!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"We're never gonna see Twilight again!" Pinkie widened her eyes in shock, almost at the verge of tears. 

"Oh no, this is terrible!" Kaede exclaimed with shock. "What are we gonna do?!"

"Of all the worst things that could happen, this is THE. WORST. POSSIBLE. THING!" Rarity cried before falling over and using her magic to levitate the same couch from before as she lied down and started crying. We all looked at her with glares, which she noticed. "What? I really mean it this time!"

"...Kinda too late for using that reaction, Rarity." Mason said, shaking his head. 

"But...what are we gonna do? What if Twilight is gone...forever?" Kodi wondered with worried. "I mean, I'm sure she didn't mean that, right Ren?"

I nodded and said "Yeah, she was just panicking because she was worried she might fail on sending a friendship report to Celeste! We gotta hurry and stop her before it's too late! Besides, it's my fault for not even taking her serious!"

"Don't blame yourself, Ren. It's my fault as well." Fluttershy said sadly. "If we just helped her out, then none of this would be happening!"

"She's right!" Carrie nodded before grabbing her brother's hand. "Come on big brother, we gotta save Twilight before she goes to Canterlot and gets send to Magic Kindergarten!"

"You seriously don't believe that, right?" Mason raised a brow, before noticing her sister was glaring at her. "Okay okay, let's go!"

"You're right!" Applejack nodded with a determined look. "It was all our faults! Now come on, we gotta go and stop the princess from punishing Twilight!"

"Right!" We all said in unison as I allowed Kodi to rest upon my shoulder as we began heading our way towards the Golden Oaks Library. 



We finally arrived to the library as we bust through the door, seeing Twilight and the princess talking with each other until they heard the door slammed opened.

"Wait!" Rainbow stopped as we all got in front of Twilight.

"You can't punish her!" Pinkie pleaded.

"It wasn't her fault!" Kaede added.

"I'm listening." Celeste replied, waiting for us to answer.

"Please, your highness. We all saw that Twilight was upset." Fluttershy explained.

"But we thought that the thing she was worrying about wasn't worth worrying about." Rainbow added.

"So when she ran off all worked up, not any of us tried to stop her." Mason said, feeling bad for not helping Twilight.

"They're right." I nodded, stepping forward with a serious expression. "I tried to help Twilight, but I let her down and instead, got Kodi involve and nearly killed. As Twilight's friend, we should have taken her feelings seriously and been there for her!"

"Please, don't take her away from us just because we never tried to help her!" Carrie pleaded with a sad look. Celeste thought for a moment before bringing up a soft smile at us.

"Looks like you all learned a pretty valuable lesson today." Really? Huh, that's neat. "Ren, it's not your fault that you couldn't stop Twilight from using that spell, but you saved Kodiak from great harm. That sounds like what a good friend would do." I smiled happily as Kodi licked me on the face, causing me to chuckle. "Very well, I'll forget Twilight's 'punishment' on one condition."

"Really?" Carrie asked, her eyes sparkling in joy.

Celeste nodded and said "From this day forth, I would like you all to report to me your findings on the magic of friendship when, and only when, you happen to discover them."

It caused us all to cheered happily while Mason crossed his arms and smiled. 

"I shall take your offer, your highness." Mason bowed. "I promise that we all be taken friendship reports."

"Thank you, Mason." Celeste bowed back to him before she was about to take her leave until Twilight stopped her.

"Princess Celestia, wait!" Twilight called, gaining her attention. "How did you know I was in trouble?"

"Oh yeah, good question." I agreed. I mean, none of this didn't even tell her something was up with Twilight lately.

"Your friend Spike made me aware that you were letting your fears get the best of you." Celeste explained, causing me and Kodi to look at the said dragon, who smiled sheepishly while we grinned at him. Spike, you're such a good friend and assistant. "I commend him for taking your feelings seriously. Now, if you will all excuse me, I must return to Canterlot. I'm expecting some mail." With that, she opened up her wings and flew out of the library threw the balcony as we watched go, heading back to the city of Canterlot.

"Yeah! That means Twilight doesn't have to go!" Carrie cheered as she hugged her, causing Twilight to be surprise. Twilight hugged her back and said "That's right Carrie, I won't be going anyway. I have all of you as the best friends a pony like me could ever ask."

"Aww..." Everypony, except Mason, who simply smiled, said as we all hugged her.

"So, shall we?" Mason asked, much to our confusion.

"Shall we what, Mason?" I asked.

"The friendship letter? Shouldn't we send one to tell Princess Celestia about what we learned about today?" Mason smirked. Oh, that's right! I almost forgotten about that!

"You got it!" Applejack nodded before turning to Spike. "Spike, take a letter."

"Got it, AJ!" Spike nodded before taking out a quill and a piece of paper out of nowhere. Twilight looked at Spike and hugged him, probably because of him telling Celeste about Twilight's issue. After that, we all gathered in a circle, ready to give our latest friendship report...together.

"Dear Princess Celestia..." Kaede began. "We're writing to you because today, we all learned a little something about friendship."

"We learned that you should take your friends worries seriously." Fluttershy added.

"And also, never dismiss them." I said with a smirk.

"Even if you don't think that she has anything to worry about." Kodi began, wagging his tail.

"And that you shouldn't let your worries nor emotions turn into a small problem." Mason said with a soft smile.

"And into an enormously huge entire-town-in-total-chaos Princess-has-to-come-and-save-the-day problem!" Pinkie exclaimed, causing us to giggle. Well, that's a mouthful.

"Signed, your loyal subjects." Applejack finished off the letter. Unfortunately, Spike went ahead and went to add a little 'something-something' on it.

"P.S. - Obviously Spike did not have to learn a lesson, because he is the best, most awesome friend a pony could ask for." Spike stated. "Unlike everypony else, he took things seriously, and-"

"Spike..." Twilight spoke up as we all gave him smirks, which made him laughed nervously. "Eheh...uh...yeah...I'll just, um..."

We all began laughing, which made Spike brought up a smile and snorted. You know, I'm really glad that Twilight didn't get punished by Celeste, and the best part is that not only is Twilight is gonna send these friendship letters, but all of us as well! I think this will be a wonderful experience for us all!



Later
"Phew, what a day." Kodi sighed as we began heading home. 

"Tell me about it..." I agreed, wiping off a sweat. "I mean, I have to run around town and shoot everypony with my Megaphone Hacking Gun to prevent them from getting at you, it was a day..." I sighed.

"Oh well, at least we managed to keep Twilight from leaving." Mason smiled, but I barely see it from that long red scarf he's wearing. You know, he may have told us everything about himself, but I never knew much why he loves wearing that scarf so much. Is it present from that Elena Ortega girlfriend of his?

"Yeah! I can't imagine her heading to the magic kindergarten!" Carrie said before letting out a yawn while she was being carried by her brother on the back.

"You still believe that?" Kaede asked, sweat-dropping a little and smiling nervously. "I'm pretty sure that the princess would never do something like that."

"Yeah, for sure." I nodded before looking back at the Hunter siblings. "You sure you're able to carry her?"

"Do you even know who you're talking to?" Mason smirked before noticing Kodiak. "But you know, I've noticed that Kodi began growing a little. Looks like he's about to grow up into a big dog."

"Huh? You mean he's almost ready to turn 1?" I asked in confusion, which Kodi overheard.

"Whoa! I almost forgot! I guess I'm gonna be a big dog, aren't I?" Kodi smirked, which made me laughed.

"You sure are Kodiak! I better prepared for that moment." I chuckled as we saw the home-ship off a distance until something caught our eye. "What the?..."

"Is that?" Mason raised a brow as we saw a familiar red earth pony holding a peculiar doll in his mouth. He soon noticed us and widened his eyes upon seeing us.

"Big Mac?" I exclaimed in surprise before seeing the Smarty Pants doll in his mouth. "...What are you doing with the Smarty Pants doll?"

"Uhhh...." Big Mac glanced away, blushing before running off, passing right by us. "Nope nope nope nope nope!" 

We all watched him run back to town, with wide-eye expressions and sweat-dropping.

"...What was that all about?" Kaede wondered.

"...I have no clue." Kodi shook his head.

"...Let's never speak of this again." Mason declared, not eager to know what was on the red earth pony's mind of having...that.

"Agreed." I nodded with a sigh. I don't know why Big Mac had that, but I sincerely hope he isn't keeping that as a collection of his, because that would be way creepier than Twilight's eye and ear twitches, along with that creepy grin of hers. I shivered upon remembering that, looks like I'll be having nightmares for weeks.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 32 - Happy Nightmare Night!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Come on Ren! We're going to be late!" Kaede called over, feeling impatient for me.

"I'm coming guys! Just hang on!" I called back as I put the finally touches in Kodi's outfit. "You ready, Kodi?"

"You bet I am!" Kodi nodded with a grin. We both smiled and headed out to the dining hall and showed our friends our costumes.

"Ta-da!" We both exclaimed in joy. I was wearing a pirate costume with a fake beard and all that. I look exactly like Jack Sparrow, isn't this such a great costume? Meanwhile, Kodi was wearing a hot dog costume.

"Well?" I asked with a grin.

"Hm? A pirate and a hot dog, eh?" Mason asked with a soft smile as he was wearing a werewolf costume. "I say pretty good choice, but however, never underestimate that. They're pretty old while a werewolf is quite lovable." 

"Hey!" I exclaimed, feeling offended of that. And...do I detect a boastful tone in him?

"I say you look pretty good, Ren and Kodiak." Kaede chuckled as she wore a pilot's outfit.

"Thanks, so what are you going as Kaede? A pilot?" I asked in confusion.

"Duh, I'm Bessie Coleman!" Kaede answered with a smile before giving me and Kodi's blank expressions. "The first African-American to ever fly?...Do you even know her?"

"Uhh...let's say I'm quite terrible at history." I chuckled nervously.

"Yeah, besides, I never heard anyone of that name." Kodi said with a shrug.

"Well, I guess I can understand Kodiak since he's a puppy, but you Ren, you need to learn more of your history." Mason sighed. Well it's not my fault that I barely know history!

"But I don't know about her nor other famous figures, big brother." Carrie pointed out, wearing a female magician's outfit. "So does that make me dumb Mason?"

"Of course not! You're a little girl, so it makes sense that you don't know much." Mason assured, causing me to sweat-drop. Is he just implying that I'm stupid?

DING-DONG!

"Oh, looks like we got trick-or-treaters!" I exclaimed, walking towards the door while Kodi provided the candy by holding the bowl of candy on his head. I opened the door, seeing multiple fillies at the door with different costumes. 

"Nightmare Night! What a fright! Give us something sweet to bite!" All the foals said in unison.

"Hey everypony! Great costumes!" I said as Mason, Carrie, and Kaede came over while Kodi leaned his head a little for the foals to receive their candy.

"Oh hey Granny Smith! I didn't know you were joining in." Carrie said, smiling at the old pony. Hey, why do I have the feeling  I've seen her a bunch of times?

"Yes, it's pretty late and I was thinking that you went to take your nap back at the farm." Mason said in confusion.

"Exactly! I should have been asleep five hours ago!" The old pony known as Granny Smith said. You know, she sorta reminds me of my own grandmother, a lovable person but likes to sleeps a lot.

"Pipsqueak the pirate, at your service!" A pony with brown spots on his eye and white overcoat with a light brown mane and tail. Hey, wait a minute! He's wearing a pirate costume like me! "Oh wow! You're those humans everypony back home was taking about! Wow, seeing you guys here in Ponyville for the first time is such a rare sight!"

"Oh, does that mean you moved here? From where?" Kaede asked curiously with a soft smile.

"Yep! I'm from Trottingham!" Pipsqueak answered. Trottingham? It's been a while since I last heard that name back then.  "And also this is my first Nightmare Night in my entire life!"

"Wow, that's awesome! This is my first Nightmare Night as well!" Carrie exclaimed in excitement.

"Same here Pipsqueak..." I grinned as I said "And we welcome you to Ponyville and a happy Halloween!"

"Hall-o-ween? Do you mean Nightmare Night?" Pipsqueak questioned.

"Well yeah, for your world, but in our world, we call it Halloween." I corrected.

"Really? Wow, that's amazing. It's like our worlds are similar to each other." Pipsqueak giggled. "Well except the names of the holidays don't sound funny."

"...I don't get it." Mason sighed, shaking his head.

"Oh well, thanks for the candy!" Pipsqueak said happily. Suddenly, a familiar energetic friend of ours popped out along with the foals. 

"Ba-kaw! Hold it! What about me?! Where's my candy?!" 

"Pinkie Pie?" Mason asked in confusion. "What exactly are you doing dressed in some chicken costume?"

"What do you think? I'm celebrating Nightmare Night!" Pinkie replied with a tooth-eating grin before pecking the ground.

"But aren't you a little old for this kind of stuff?" Kaede asked.

"Hey! Nopony is old enough to celebrate Nightmare Night!" Pinkie exclaimed. "Now enough talk! Hand over the candy!

"Okay!" I said, handing some candy to her before saying " But I feel ya Pinkie, we shouldn't grow old of celebrating this time of year! I'll never grow old of this stuff! Never!"

"Me too!" Carrie nodded in agreement. Mason and Kaede looked at each other and softly smiled and sighed.

"Ren...you act like a little kid most of the time." Mason sighed, causing me to glare at him. You take that back!

"Well, shall we?" Kodi asked as I took the bowl off his head and rest it on a nearby table next to the door.

"You bet Kodi!" I nodded with a smile. "Woo! Candy, here I come!"

"Wow, you're really excited." Kaede said in surprise. "I didn't know you were into this holiday."

"It's like Halloween, and besides, Halloween is one of my favorite holidays of the year!" I answered with a smirk.

"And this is my first time doing this kind of thing!" Kodi said as he started drooling. "Think of all the candy we can get."

"Yep! This is my first time we're doing this, even in a new world we're in." Carrie said, crossing her arms in thought before smiling. "But at least we'll have fun!"

"You're right." Mason nodded. "Now come on, our friends are waiting for us to show for the party." Soon, Mason's pet squirrels came out of his werewolf costume and hopped on Kodi's back, who was glad to see them.

"Ahh, thanks for coming with us, you guys." Kodi smiled at the two squirrels, who waved at him with soft grins. "Now come on everyone! How about we head over to the party!"

"Yep! I wonder what the others besides Pinkie are wearing for Nightmare Night!" Kaede wondered.

"I don't know..." I shrugged before smiling. "We better find out! Come on!" I said as me, Kodi, and Carrie dashed off towards town with Mason and Carrie following after us. 

So I bet you're wondering, what are we doing? You see, the other day, Twilight told us about this special holiday that Equestria celebrates every year. They call it 'Nightmare Night'...Why would they chose some weird name remains a mystery for us to know. But however, when we learned that kids get candies from other houses, we soon realized that it was similar to Halloween, and we couldn't miss an opportunity for this. Tonight, we're going to be celebrating the best night of all of Equestria...or so we thought.



Later
"Aah...what an awesome night to be trick-or-treating, right guys?" I asked, carrying a bag filled with all the candy we managed to get. We walked through town, seeing different ponies either wearing costumes to go and trick-or-treat, or just having fun at the many activities like bob an apple, throw a spider on the cob web, and such.

"It sure is, still though, aren't you too old for this kind of stuff?" Mason asked, which caused me to give him a playful smirk.

"Oh come on Mason, I still do trick-or-treating beyond this day." I replied.

"Yeah!" Carrie nodded. "Besides, this is my first time trick-or-treating! Normally, the servants back home would hand us a stack full of candy besides of me, Mason, and Elena going out into town and trick-or-treating like normal kids."

"Ahh...that's so sad." Kaede said, feeling bad for her. "I guess being with a wealthy family has its disadvantages, huh?"

"Yeah, but I learned to adapt to it. Besides, ever since I became a personal bodyguard for Elena, I gave up trick-or-treating years ago." Mason shrugged like it was no big deal.

"So then, why are you wearing that costume?" Kodi wondered as he was chewing on some chocolate as I saw the chocolate smudges on his face. 

"Well...I just wanted to at least get along with you all in this holiday spirit." Mason answered hesitantly.

"Well back when I was a kid, I used to make tons of costumes for the young children back at elementary school, even for my classmates." Kaede chuckled, remembering that fond memory of hers.

"Wow, you must be a real talented costume maker Kaede." Carrie chuckled as she ate some of her candy until she noticed somepony not too far from here. "Hey, isn't that Twilight and Spike?"

"Huh?" I asked before seeing them as well. Twilight was wearing some wizard costume while Spike was wearing a...dragon's costume? Okay, kinda confusing since he's a dragon and all that. "Oh yeah! I'm glad that they showed up! Let's go meet up with them!"

"Sounds like a plan!" Kaede nodded as we walked over to them with grins on our faces.

"Hey Twi! Happy Halloween!" I exclaimed with a big grin. Twilight and Spike noticed us and became happy to see us in costume.

Twilight chuckled at me and said "First of all Ren, it's Nightmare Night! Second, thanks! Nice costumes by the way!"

"Same here! I'm Jack Sparrow!" I grinned, confusing the two.

"I don't know who's that, but you look like a pirate to me." Spike shrugged.

"Speaking of which, guess who I am?" Twilight grinned.

"Umm...Dumbledore?" I asked, much to Twilight's irriation. Alright, let's try again. "Gandalf? Merlin?"

"No! I'm Starswirl The Bearded!" Twilight answered, tired of me getting the wrong answers.

"We're sorry Twilight, but you just looked like a wizard and we have no clue on who do you speak of." Mason reminded her, which made her realized that.

"Yeah, who's Starswirl The Bearded?" Kodi asked curiously while Carrie and Mason's pet squirrels chuckled at that name.

"Tee-hee! It's sound like a funny name!" Carrie chuckled.

"Ugh..." Twilight face-hooved herself before explaining who that was. "Anyway, Starswirl The Bearded is only the most conjurer of the pre-classical era. He created more than two hundred spells. He even has a shelf in the Canterlot library magic named after him."

"Wow, he does sound a lot like Merlin!" I exclaimed, which confused them.

"And who is Merlin? You said that a while ago when guessing Twilight's costume." Spike said, taking a bite of his candy.

"Well, I don't know him by history, but my movie..." I admitted, rubbing my head bashfully. "He's a special wizard in the dark ages in our world. He's known as the greatest sorcerer to ever even create magic."

"Well, I wouldn't say he was the greatest sorcerer..." Kaede chuckled nervously. "But Ren is right about him being a special wizard in the medieval dark ages."

"I see..." Twilight nodded with a soft smile. "Well, it's nice to hear that at least. Though I wished everypony would even know about Starswirl The Bearded...." Twilight grumbled.

"Don't worry Twi, they're just fillies. They don't go to some fancy boarding school like you." I shrugged, which made Twilight sigh.

"Yeah, I guess you have a point." Twilight agreed.

"So Spike, what are you?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Me? Oh easy, I'm a dragon!" Spike said with a big grin, which caused us to look at him with incredulous looks. 

"Seriously? But aren't you already a dragon? Is this some sort of joke that we're missing out?" Mason said with a raised brow, causing Spike to give him a deadpan glare.

"But anyway!" Kaede clapped her hands together with a smile. "Let's just continue with Nightmare Night! I do want to try out many activites anyway!"

"Yeah, same here Kaede!" Carrie chuckled as we were about to go until we heard a loud sound, scaring some trick-or-treaters, even us. 

"What the?!" I exclaimed as I immediately took out my Hacking Gun and saw a dark cloud floating aimlessly in the middle of town, and there was somepony there. "Ah! A Shadowbolt!" I exclaimed as I shot 'Break' towards it, causing the 'Shadowbolt' to dodge it and glared at me.

"Hey! Watch where you aim that thing Ren!" Huh? That voice, is that?

"Rainbow Dash?" I asked incredulous as the 'Shadowbolt' took off her goggles, revealing to be Dash. 

"Yeah, it's me! What? Too scared of being pranked by me that you have to use your little megaphone gun?" Rainbow taunted, causing me to sigh.

"Hey! You nearly scared us!" Kaede exclaimed.

"Yeah! And look at what you did to poor Spike and Kodiak!" Twilight pointed out, seeing both Spike and Kodi choking on their candy. 

"It's all in good fun." Rainbow waved it off.

"What's so fun on nearly giving someone a heart attack?" Mason asked, narrowing his eyes at her. Before Rainbow could respond to his question, we heard another laughter from another bunch of trick-or-treaters, which brighten her mood.

"Oh! Oh! There's another group over there! Catch ya later!" Rainbow grabbed the dark cloud and raced off, setting out another lightning bolt at the next group of trick-or-treaters, which caused us to sigh heavily.

"Oh well, at least there's other ways to celebrate Nightmare Night." I chuckled nervously while rubbing my head bashfully. "Besides, it can't be Halloween/Nightmare Night without some pranking."

"Yeah, but don't bother following her footsteps." Mason said dryly before turning to Carrie. "Especially you, young lady."

"Got it big brother!" Carrie nodded with a big grin. Why do I have the feeling that she's lying?

"Howdy, you all!" We were greeted by Applejack as she was wearing a scarecrow costume. "Nice costumes!"

"Thanks! I'm a magician!" Carrie said with a proud look on her face.

"Yeah! And I'm a hot dog!" Kodi added, bringing up a tooth-eating grin.

"Ha ha! I see." Applejack chuckled as she gave him a pat on the head, much to his joy that he wagged his little tail before noticing the rest of our costumes. "Hmm...you know, you look good at being a pirate, Ren."

"Ha! Thanks AJ!" I smiled.

"And Mason, you're dressed as a wolf while Kaede is dressed as some pilot?" 

"Technically, it's a werewolf costume, and yes, I chose it. I thought it might look decent." Mason replied, with a soft smile. 

"Yeah, I made this costume with help from Rarity." Kaede replied, slightly blushing. "This pilot's costume is actually based on a famous person back at our world.

"I see." Applejack nodded before noticing Twilight's costume. "Hmm...with that beard, I reckon you're some sorta country music singer."

Twilight let out an annoyed grunt that somepony else didn't knew about her costume while I snickered at what Applejack guessed. She barely looks anything like a country music singer, but it was still hilarious!

"I am sorry but what Twilight is wearing is based upon Starswirl The Bearded." Mason corrected Applejack, who smiled sheepishly at her friend.

"Oh...heh heh, sorry about that Twi." Applejack rubbed the ground with her hoof, feeling bad for her.

"No no, it's okay Applejack. I'm sure there's somepony out there who respects my costume or even guess it right." Twilight assured with a soft grin.

"Yeah..." I nodded before realizing that we're missing somepony. "Oh man! I forgot about Flutters! She's missing the fun out here!"

"Oh...actually Ren, I think it's best if you left Fluttershy alone for the night." Applejack said with an apologetic smile.

"Huh? Why's that?" I asked in concern.

"Because well...Fluttershy doesn't like to enjoy Nightmare Night." Applejack admitted, much to our shock. She...doesn't like Nightmare Night?! "See, she's too scared to even hang out and get used to all this."

"But why would she be scared of all this?" Kodi wondered. "I mean, with all the spooky decorations, the creepy costumes, and the dark moonless night."

"...Yeah, I wonder why." Mason said sarcastically in a deadpan expression before turning to me with a soft smile. "I'm sorry if she couldn't come, Ren. Maybe next time..."

I sighed in depression before making a smile and responded "Yeah, I guess you have a point."

"Say, why not take all your worries away with some carnival games?" Applejack offered as she pointed over to a big barrel filled with water and apples. "You feel like bobbing for some apples?"

"I see why not." I chuckled as I headed over to the barrel and proceed to bob an apple until something came out, taking me by surprise. "What the?!" Unfortunately, it was a grey Pegasus with light blonde mane and tail and some weird cross eyes.

"Oh hey! Wanna some of this apple?" She asked politely. I sweat-dropped a little and chuckled nervously and replied "Oh, no thanks. I'm good..."

"Okay!" She said before chewing on the apple and diving back into the barrel of water. Yep, I think I'll skip that for the rest of the night.

Soon after, I heard and saw everypony cheering as I turned around and saw Mayor Mare on stage with some...is she wearing an afro or something? 

"Thank you, everypony, and welcome to the Nightmare Night festival!" Mayor Mare announced, causing everypony to clap their hooves on the ground and cheered for her. "Now all the little ponies who have been collecting sweets should follow our friends, Zecora, to hear the legend of...Nightmare Moon!" She said in a creepy voice and began laughing like a mad scientist. Wait, did she say Zecora and Nightmare Moon?

It's been a while since I've last seen Zecora ever since the...*shudder*....Poison Joke incident. I seriously did not being a girl, no offense to all women. But I'm glad to hear that now everypony finally accepts her. Also, Nightmare Moon? Jeez, haven't heard about her since I first got into this world. Wonder why she's related to Nightmare Night? 

"You know, the spooky voice might've work better if she wasn't dressed like that." Spike chuckled.

"Yeah, that afro just makes her look silly!" Kodi said, laughing alongside with Spike. We soon followed them and laughed about that too. Suddenly, a shimmery green haze started to appear around the area, resulting in seeing a familiar zebra dressed in a witches' outfit with spiders in her mane to come forward through the green fog.


"Follow me and very soon, you'll hear the tale of Nightmare Moon!"


With a swirk of her cloak, she walked off-stage and made her way towards the Everfree Forest. 

"Who...was that?" Kaede asked in shock. 

"Oh that. That was Zecora, she's a good friend of ours and an potion maker who lives at the Everfree Forest." I answered with a tooth-eating grin.

"And she's a talking zebra?" Mason said with an unsure look on his face. 

"Yeah, I thought it was weird too, but I got used to it." I shrugged.

"But why is she taking us to the Everfree Forest? Isn't that dangerous to go to?" Carrie asked in worried.

"Don't worry! Ren and Twilight will protect us!" Kodi assured. "And besides, Zecora seemed to still be okay living there in one piece."

"Mm-hmm!" I nodded in agreement. "Trust me, Zecora is a very nice zebra. I can take you to her right now while we follow her."

"Well alright. Though, I don't know we're surprised to see a talking zebra." Kaede said, chuckling nervously. "I mean, we've seen pretty weird things lately." Well...you're not wrong there.



Later
Man, even by night here in Nightmare Night, the Everfree Forest still creeps me to this day. While we walked, I allowed my friends to catch up to Zecora as I whispered to her and said "Hey Zecora!"

"Hm?" She turned around and smiled upon seeing me. "Ah! Loodan, it has been so long, I do not know where to began."

"Huh? Did she rhythm?" Carrie whispered to Mason, who shrugged.

"Heh heh, it sure is. By the way, these are my new friends." I pointed over to them and said "The one in the werewolf costume is Mason, the one in the magician's costume is his little sister, Carrie, and the one in the pilot's costume is Kaede."

"Ah, more human friends that mysteriously were brought and sent." Zecora smiled, amazed to see new humans here in Equestria.

"Oh, you do rhyme!" Carrie giggled. "It must be hard to do that a lot, huh?"

"Yes sweet child." Zecora rubbed her head with a soft smile. "But I don't mind it."

"So Ren says you're an enchantress, correct?" Mason questioned with a raised brow.

"Yes, I live here in the Everfree Forest to help those that want to be retiree." Zecora explained.

"Huh? What do you mean by that?" Kaede asked curiously.

Zecora let out a chuckle and said "Well you see human girl, that I make potions to help a pony to uncurl their issues."

"I think in other terms, problems that they might not solve." I translated, which made them go 'Ahh' as they finally managed to understand it.

"I am sorry to cut short our talk but I must tell the young ones of the legend of Nightmare Moon somewhat." Zecora apologized.

"Nah, it's okay. I'm curious about it as well." I said with a soft smile. Seriously though, why is Nightmare Moon involve in this? It can't be because both her name and this holiday have 'Nightmare' in it. That's just...well stupid.

"Yeah, me too!" Kodi said with a smile, which Zecora chuckled and scratched under his chin, much to Kodi's joy. We soon arrived somewhere around the Everfree Forest and saw ourselves a statue, but not a normal statue. It was a statue of Nightmare Moon. 

"Is that...Nightmare Moon?" Kaede asked, feeling a little scared of it.

"Yeah." I nodded with a serious expression. Man, even by this day, she still haunts us.


Listen close, my little dears. I'll tell you where you got your fears of Nightmare Night, so dark and scary, of Nightmare Moon, who makes you wary.


She blew some green powder around us, and before you know it, Nightmare Moon appeared before us. Before I could grab my Hacking Gun, Mason stopped me.

"Wait, it's just an illusion, Ren." Mason assured, causing me to take a closer look at her. Oh yeah, I see it now. Darn these flashbacks of her again!


Every year we put on a disguise, to save ourselves from her searching eyes.


The foals, Carrie, Kodi, and Pinkie screamed in fear, running from the Nightmare Moon illusion. Pipsqueak and Kodiak kept running into their bumped into the statue.


For Nightmare Moon wants just one thing, to gobble up ponies in one quick swing!


Pipsqueak and Kodi accidentally bumped into Pinkie, who'd been hiding her head in the ground like an ostrich, making them both screams. Okay, I'm not even going to begin how did Pinkie do that because she's...well, Pinkie Pie. Soon, Zecora threw out another pair of that green powder stuff.


Hungrily, she soars the skies. If she sees nopony, she passes by...So if she comes and all is clear, Equestria is safe another year.


The image of Nightmare Moon looked over the fear children but left them alone before soaring up to the skies and exploding into shower of green glimmers of fireworks.

"Umm...Miss Zecora?" We all turned to see Carrie tugging on Zecora's cloak. "If we wear these costumes in order to hide from Nightmare Moon, so she won't eat us alive, then how come we still need to give her some of our candy?"

Zecora pulled on a wicked smile and began explaining.


A perfect question, my little friend, for Nightmare Moon you must not offend.


She blew more of that green powder stuff, showing off another illusive image of Nightmare Moon.


Fill up her belly with a treat or two, so she won't return to come eat you.


As soon as the kids, Pinkie, and Kodi saw the fangs coming out of Nightmare Moon, they screamed in fear and immediately dumped all their candy in front of the statue.

"Quick everypony! Just dump some candy and get out of here!" Pinkie exclaimed in fear.

"Ahh...they're throwing away their treats." I pouted as I held tight on my candy bag.

"You aren't gonna dump your candy at the statue?" Twilight asked.

"Course not! I'm sorry if I'm being too possessive, but I can't! I love my candy!" I exclaimed.

"Of course you wouldn't, you're too old to fall for this trick." Mason sighed. "Zecora just told a mere story."

"But Nightmare Moon isn't! She's real!" Spike exclaimed. "I mean, Ren, Twilight, and the others saw her, am I right?" We nodded in agreement, remembering the first time we saw Nightmare Moon when I first came to this world.

"While that may be true, it doesn't change the fact that it's just a trick." Mason shrugged. "I can understand the children since they're too small to understand and I don't want to ruin this for Carrie since she's enjoying Nightmare Night very much."

"Well, same goes for Kodi." I smiled before taking out some candy and eating it.

"Okay, but what about Pinkie Pie?" Kaede wondered before we saw throwing all her candy away and kept clucking like a chicken. 

"Uhh...she's just an excuse." Mason said blankly.

"Yeah, but you gotta admit, she's funny." I chuckled until I felt some heavy winds blowing around. "Huh? Is it just me or did it feel too windy here?"

"No, you're not the one who's feeling it!" Kaede said, feeling the wind blowing in her face as well. We all noticed the clouds swirling above with the moon in the eye of the apparent storm, much to our worries.

"What's happening?!" Kodi demanded.

"I'm...sure this is part of Zecora's trick, right?" I asked with a nervous smile, but I noticed that Zecora had a worried look, meaning that this wasn't her doing. "...Never mind."

"Hey, what's that?..." Huh? We all looked at where Carrie was pointing up and before you know it, a great flash of light appeared, and through it was the scariest-looking chariot that I've never seen before, and I saw a bunch of Pegasus Royal Guard carrying it, but what really surprised me was that their 'wings' were actually bat wings and had scary red eyes. 

I just hope for my sake that they're costumes. Soon, we saw somepony else inside the chariot as we felt somepony in their gazing at us with its horn lighting up.

"AAAAAHH! IT'S NIGHTMARE MOON! EVERYPONY RUN!" Pinkie screamed as everypony ran for their lives while Kodi and Carrie hid behind me and Mason. I took a closer look at the figure in the chariot as they unveiled their cloak, causing me to widened my eyes in shock.

"Luna?" I asked, surprised to see who it was. It was Princess Luna, the younger sister of Celestia and the ruler of the night. What is she doing here? Did she come to Ponyville to celebrate Nightmare Night with us?

"Oh!" Carrie soon smiled, realizing it was just Princess Luna. "It's Luna! Ha ha, I guess I got scared for nothing!"

"Yeah, same here!" Kodi nodded, happy that they got to see her again.

"Yes, but still..." Mason watches the chariot fly off towards town with a hard and serious look. "What's going on? Why is Princess Luna here?" 

"Maybe she came by to celebrate Nightmare Night with us? I mean, she does love the night time." Kaede suggested.

"Well, that might be a possibility." Twilight agreed. "Let's go find out."

"Okay." I nodded before turning to Zecora. "Sorry if it was all ruin."

"Nay, it's quite alright, Ren." Zecora assured. "But I hope you might enjoy a lovely night in Nightmare Night."

"Alright, thanks Zecora!" I said before we ran off back to Ponyville. "Happy Nightmare Night!"

"Come on! We gotta hurry!" Kodi called as we continued to run through the path of the Everfree Forest. Well, I'm kinda more excited than fearful to see Luna again. We haven't seen each other for weeks and I was wondering why she would show up. After all, she told us that was fearful of meeting everypony of this day due to her past. Maybe she's...she's trying to overcome that fear?



We soon finally arrived to Ponyville and saw Princess Luna descending onto the ground, and judging by everypony's looks, they were terrified to see her.

"Hey, why is everyone acting so scared? It's just Princess Luna." Carrie said, confused to see everyone likes this.

"Yeah, they shouldn't be afraid!" Kodi said, growling angry at them.

"Calm down everyone." I assured, patting Kodi on the head. "I'm sure Luna will explain her reasons of being here and will calm everyone down and see how fun she is."

Unfortunately...I spoke too soon.

"Citizens of Ponyville! We have graced your tiny village with our presence, so that you might behold...the real Princess Of The Night!" Princess Luna shouted, causing us all to cover our ears.

"Yeah...I highly doubt that." Mason said, covering his ears in pain. 

"Well wasn't expecting that." I said in a sweat-drop.

"A creature of nightmares no longer, but instead a pony who desires your love and admiration!" Unfortunately, everypony who was bowing to her scooted away from her, which she still haven't noticed. "Together, we shall change this dreadful celebration into a bright and glorious feast!"

As if on cue, we heard some thunder cracking and lightning blasting off. Okay, that was TOO convenient for something like that to happen.

"Did you hear that, everypony? Nightmare Moon says she's gonna feast on us all!" Pinkie screamed, causing everypony to scream in fear and run away, creating a disaster around the place. Princess Luna finally noticed everypony's fear as she tried to stop them and calm down.

"What?! No, children, no!" Luna said, trying to calm them down, but to no avail. "You no longer have reason to fear us! Screams of delight are what your princess desires, not screams of terror!"

She stomped her hoof on the ground real hard, causing some of the ponies to whimper in fear. Luna turned to Mayor Mare, who was ducking in fear.

"Madam Mayor, thy Princess of the Night hath arrived!" Luna raised her hoof at her, causing Mayor Mare to whimper and look away in fear. Luna noticed it and looked at her, feeling irritated. "What is the matter with you?!" She tried to raise her hoof to somepony else, but no matter, they would either turn away in fear or covered their eyes, too scared to even look at Luna.

Seeing this makes me feel bad for Luna, she doesn't deserve this and she's trying her best to make everypony accept her. Luna pouted at them before scoffing "Very well then, be that way! We won't even bother with the traditional royal farewell!"

"Princess Luna..." Carrie said sadly.

"What's wrong with these ponies?!" Kaede exclaimed in anger. "She was trying to get along with them and yet they just ignored her?!"

"It wasn't that Kaede..." Mason shook his head, much to Kaede's confusion. "They were scared of her because of her loud voice, the lightning and how she break the concrete on the ground with only her hoof."

"Oh..." Kaede said, finally understanding why everypony is afraid.

"She doesn't deserve this..." Twilight said, feeling bad for the princess as she walks away from everypony. She then pulled off a determined look and said "I'm gonna go talk to her!"

"Same here!" I nodded until Spike tugged both my pants and Twilight's cloak as he had a worried look and exclaimed "You can't! That's Nightmare Moon! She'll devoured you!"

"She's not!" Twilight said sternly.

"Twilight's right!" Carrie agreed. "She's a very nice princess! We even met her right after the Grand Galloping Gala!"

"Mm-hmm! She's nice!" Kodi argued, glaring at Spike.

"Guys, calm down." I said, trying to calm them down. "Luna is very caring like her sister, Twilight and the others used the Elements of Harmony to turn them back to her original self. She's just...having trouble fitting in after being gone a thousand years."

"Ren's right." Twilight nodded. "That's why we're go talk to her."

"Well...can I come?" Carrie asked with a pleading look. "I...just want to check on her, that's all."

"...Okay, sis." Mason softly smiled with a nod before turning to me and Twilight. "Can you  two watch her for me? Me, Spike, and Kaede will stay behind and try to calm the crowd. You guys go over and try to cheer her up."

"Yeah." Kaede nodded.

"We are?" Spike asked, flinching from Mason and Kaede's glares. "I-I mean, we are! Good luck you guys!"

Me, Carrie, Kodi, and Twilight looked at each other before smiling back at our friends. "Okay! We'll be right back! See ya!" I bid them goodbye before we followed Luna's trail towards the Everfree Forest. Please Luna, don't go! We're going to help her get back on her own two feet...hooves...whichever comes first.



"Man, the Everfree Forest still scares me even to this day..." I muttered as we walked through the same path that Zecora led us towards the statue of Nightmare Moon. 

"Well I'm not scared!" Carrie smiled in determination.

"Me neither!" Kodi exclaimed, feeling confident until we heard a snapping sound, causing him to jump out of fear and into my hands.

"Careful Kodi, it was just a stick you just stepped on." I assured with a soft grin. Kodi looked down and saw it was a stick as he chuckled nervously.

"Oh..." Oh Kodiak...

"Guys, look!" Twilight pointed towards the end of the path. We walked towards it and finally her, sitting on the shadow of the Nightmare Moon statue. I couldn't help but feel bad for Luna. It's like she's being overshadowed by her alter ego. 

"Luna." I called for her, gaining her attention. She widened her eyes upon seeing me, Kodi, and Carrie. "Remember us?"

"Ah, sir Ren, sir Kodiak, and madam Carrie. It is an honor to meet you once again." Luna said, getting back up with a serious expression.

"Luna!" Carrie said happily as she run over and gave her a big hug, much to the princess's surprise. Luna didn't mind and returned the favor back to her. "I'm so glad that you came back! I wasn't expecting you to show up here in Nightmare Night."

"Of course, it is a thy tradition of ours to arrive for the glorious night of Nightmare Night." Luna answered with a soft smile.

"Really? But everyone seemed afraid of you." Carrie said sadly.

"Yes...Thou seems so..." Luna sighed as she and Carrie ended their hug.

"Umm...Princess Luna?" Twilight gained her attention as she cleared her throat and said "Hi, my name is-"

"Starswirl The Bearded. Commendable costume! Thou even got the bells right." Luna said, smiling over Twilight's work.

"Thank you! Finally! Somepony who gets my costume!" Twilight said happily, before noticing our raised brows. She blushed a bit before clearing her throat and said "Uh...We just came to welcome you to our celebration, your highness. My actual name is-"

"Twilight Sparkle, Bearer of the Element of Magic." Luna said, interrupting Twilight before she flapped into the air and storm clouds blocked the moon. "It was thee who, along with Ren Loodan, wielded against us with the Elements of Harmony and took away our dark powers!"

We all covered our ears from the loud voice she was making while trying to stand still from the powerful gusts. As soon as it was over, I asked "And it was a good thing, right?"

"But of course, we could not be happier!" Luna nodded. "Is that not clear?"

"Well, you sound like you're yelling at us in anger." Kodi said, confusing Luna.

"But this is the traditional royal Canterlot voice! It is tradition to speak the royal 'we', and we to use..." Luna cleared her throat before switching the volumes of her voice. "This much volume when addressing our subjects!"

We covered our ears in pain until she was done using that voice as we re-adjusted our costumes as Twilight asked "You know, that might explain why your appearance was met with...mixed results?"

"Besides, you never did that to us when we first met." I said in confusion. Luna rubbed her hoof and replied "I was...trying to fit in, that's all. But this Nightmare Night, and its tradition to use the Royal Canterlot Voice."

"Oh..." I muttered, rubbing my cheek in embarrassment. That explains why she sounded like a banshee back there.

Carrie smiled at the princess and said "But I know they'll accept you if try to act different from before."

"What...do you mean by that, young Carrie?" Luna asked curiously.

"She means that maybe we could try a different approach." Twilight translated. 

"Change our approach?" Luna asked, reverting back to the loud voice.

"She means lower the tone of your voice, Luna." I clarified, which made Luna finally understand what I mean.

"Ohhh..." Luna said, covering her mouth while blushing. "We have been locked away for a thousand years. We...are not sure we can."

"Hmm..." I rubbed my chin in thought until I know one pony that can do the job. "I know! Let's go to Fluttershy's!"

"Fluttershy? Why her?" Kodi asked curiously. "I mean, she doesn't want to come out since she doesn't like Nightmare Night that much."

"But we can still give it a try." I shrugged with a smile. "Besides, I'm sure she'll understand, right?"

"You're right!" Twilight nodded with a smile on her face. "Fluttershy is the only pony who has a soft voice. So come on!"

With that, we began to head our way towards Fluttershy's cottage, in hopes that we might able to help Luna with her...social problems.



We led Luna to Fluttershy's cottage, and it seemed to be no decorations of Nightmare Night. I guess Applejack wasn't kidding that Fluttershy doesn't like Nightmare Night.

"Don't worry Princess, Fluttershy can give you some great pointers." Twilight assured.

"Yeah, she's sweet, delicate, and a very nice pony." I added with a smile. "She's also my...um...girlfriend..."

"You mean special somepony?" Luna corrected me.

"Well, yeah that." I shrugged with a smile. "She's teaching me about love by going out and such."

"Hm, we see." Luna nodded. "We are appreciated that you and miss Fluttershy are now a couple. My dear sister told me a lot about you two." What? So Celeste knew this too? Oh come on, does everypony I met so far know how close we are?!

"Anyway..." Carrie walked over to the door. "Do you really think it's okay to get Fluttershy?"

"Well of course Carrie!" Twilight nodded with a grin. "Like Ren stated, she's sweet and has a very soft and caring voice."

As Twilight knocked on the door, a loud voice boomed right through the cottage's door. "GO AWAY! NO CANDY HERE! VISITORS ARE NOT WELCOME ON NIGHTMARE NIGHT!"

"Umm..." Kodi blinked in surprise while Luna gave us a deadpan look, causing me and Twilight to chuckle nervously. 

"Don't worry, let me talk to her." I assured as I knocked on the door and said "Fluttershy, it's me, Ren. It's okay to come out."

Five seconds later, the door started to unlock as she slowly opened it and revealed herself, just a little timid that's all. "Oh, it is you, Ren! Thank goodness!" Fluttershy said, relieved it was just me before noticing the others. "Oh, and Twilight's here. Along with Carrie, Kodiak, and Nightmare Moon..." As soon as she saw Princess Luna and realized what she said, she widened her eyes and gasped "Nightmare Moon?! EEK!"

She immediately closed the door, locking it back while Luna gave me another deadpan expression. I sighed and knocked on the door again and said "Flutters, it's not Nightmare Moon. Remember, she's gone for good. It's Princess Luna, and don't worry, she's a very good pony, not a monster."

She unlocked the door again and peeked her head out of the door with a scared look as she said "A-are you sure?"

"Of course, just trust her." I assured with a soft grin, which seemed to do the trick as she slowly came out of the house and looked at Princess Luna with a nervous smile. "So Flutters, you remember Princess Luna back when I first came to this world?"

"Charmed." Luna said in her booming voice.

"Likewise..." Fluttershy chuckled nervously. I patted her on the back and muttered "It's okay, we'll be by your side."

"...Okay." Fluttershy nodded and looked back at Luna with a soft but timid smile. "So, what brings you here your highness?"

"Twilight Sparkle and Ren Loodan spoken of the sweetness of thy voice. We ask thou teachest to us to speak as thou speakest." Luna asked, still using that Royal Canterlot Voice.

"Okay." Fluttershy nodded, her voice squeaking out.

"Shall our lessons begin?" Luna asked.

"Okay." 

"Shall we mimic thy voice?"

"Okay."

"How is this?"

"Perfect, lesson over!" Fluttershy exclaimed as she tried rushing back to the house until I stopped her and said "Come on Flutters, you can do it. You can't be afraid. I know you're scared, but you need to be brave, besides, you're not alone."

Fluttershy blinked in surprise before looking back to see Twilight, Kodi, and Carrie looking at her with smiles. Fluttershy soon took a deep breath and smiled softly and said "Okay, I'll try." 

She turned to Luna with her timid smile and said "Okay Princess Luna, try to calm the tone of your voice a bit down."

"How is...this?" Luna asked, lowering her voice a bit down.

"It sounds a bit better, right Fluttershy?" Carrie asked curiously.

"Yes." Fluttershy nodded.

"How...about...now?" Luna asked, her voice almost sounding normal.

"Now you're getting it." Twilight smiled.

"And...how about now?" Luna asked, speaking in her normal tone.

"Yes! Well done!" Twilight smiled.

"Yeah, looks like you dropped the RCV." I chuckled, confusing everypony.

"The RCV?" Kodi asked curiously. I sighed and replied "The Royal Canterlot Voice. I thought I shorten the name, that's all."

"Well, I thank thee, sir Ren Loodan and miss Twilight Sparkle." Luna said before turning to Fluttershy and giving her a big hug, a tight one that is. "But I thank mostly thee, dear Fluttershy! Our normal speaking voice shall surely win the hearts of thy fellow villagers."

"Yeah! They have to love you now!" Kodi said with a smile until his ears perked and started sniffing.

"Something wrong, boy?" I asked in worried.

"It smells like somepony's coming." Kodi said, looking around, trying to find the scent. That's when we heard her voice.

"Fluttershy! You've gotta hide us!" Oh no, not now! We looked over to see Pinkie, along with the foals walking on the path that leads to Fluttershy's cottage. "Nightmare Moon is here and...BA-KAWK! Ah!" As soon as she saw Luna holding a dazed Fluttershy after receiving the severe spine hugging she got, Pinkie yelled "Oh no! She stole Fluttershy's voice so she can't scream when she gobbles her up!"

With that, she and the foals all screamed and immediately ran off in fear, much to our shock. I face-palmed and muttered "Ahh...crap-baskets."

"Yep, I should've seen that coming..." Kodi sighed, feeling bad for Luna now.

"Nay children, wait!" Luna called in that booming voice of hers until she cleared her throat and spoke normally and said "Uh...I mean, nay children! Please wait!"

"Ahh..." Carrie sighed sadly before walking over and looked at Luna with a soft smile. "Don't worry Princess Luna, I'm sure Ren and Twilight might think of something else, right guys?"

"You're right. We'll get them to trust Princess Luna." Twilight said in a determine smile. "Come on everypony, time for Plan B."

"Yeah..." I nodded before realizing something. "What's Plan B?"

"You'll see, just follow me." Twilight gestured as she led us back towards town. But before I left, I turned back to Fluttershy and helped her up. 

"You okay, Flutters?" I asked in concern.

"Y-yeah...I think so." Fluttershy dust herself off before looking at me with a sad look. "I'm sorry if I wasn't that much help."

"Nah, you were helpful." I assured before sighing and said "It was just Pinkie. She just literally came by at the wrong place at the wrong time."

"You're right. Anyway, I should go back inside and wait until Nightmare Night is done and over with. See ya Ren." Fluttershy said as she was about to walk back into her house until I spoke up "Wait Flutters!"

"Huh?" She turned to me with a confused look.

"Look...it's not fun without you being a part of it. You should enjoy Nightmare Night with me and the others." I said with a soft smile. "I mean, if you don't want to...then I understand."

"...Ren." Fluttershy looked at me with a soft smile. "...I-I'll try to participate later. For now, you should go on ahead and help Princess Luna."

"Thanks Flutters, and I'll see you later." I said before heading off into town while waving goodbye to her. I really hope she'll come by and join in the festivities because it won't be fun without her. 



"AHHHHH!" 

And once again, more screams and terrors. Everypony that see Princess Luna runs away in fear, hides somewhere safe from a far distance, and whimpers and cowards her from her presence.

"Wow, they're really afraid of her." Kodi muttered, seeing how everyone's acting.

"It is of no use, Ren Loodan and Twilight Sparkle." Luna said with a sad and depressed look. "They have never like us, and they never shall."

"Don't worry, our friends, Mason, Kaede, and Applejack are the most likeable people around." I assured, patting Luna on the back. "I'm sure they'll have some ideas."

"Ren's right. I'm sure they might help." Twilight nodded.

"Mm-hmm! Both my big brother and our friend will help you out! They always will!" Carrie added with a warm smile.

"Yeah! And I already see them already!" Kodi pointed out, seeing them around that barrel of water where ponies were bobbing for apples. Mason and Kaede were apparently helping out Applejack maintained the station as Mason saved Pipsqueak from falling into the barrel.

"There you go." Mason said softly.

"Thanks mister." Pipsqueak thanked before running off. Mason smiled before turning around and noticing Luna was in front of him with a soft smile. 

"Ah, Princess Luna, fancy meeting you here." Mason smiled, catching both Kaede and Applejack's attention, who the latter flinched upon seeing her, which made Luna make a flat look at her.

"Charmed." Luna said, looking at Applejack with a flat look while replying back to Mason.

"Hey big brother, we were wondering if you guys help out Princess Luna." Carrie pleaded.

"Yeah, maybe a way to make her fit in with others?" I answered, getting confuse expressions from Mason and Kaede while Applejack looked at us with a serious expression and said "Fit in? Really?"

Twilight glared at her for that remark, even in front of Luna. Applejack hesitate from her glare and look at the princess with a nervous smile. 

"I-I mean...that's easy!" Applejack answered quickly. "All you gotta do is have the right attitude. Loosen up a bit, be positive, play a few games, have some fun."

"Fun? What is this 'fun' thou speakest of?" Luna asked curiously. "Pray tell, what purposes do these serve?"

I looked at her in shock and exclaimed "What?! You never experienced what fun is?!"

"Ren..." Kaede spoke up. "You should know that the princess didn't experience that because of you-know-what?" You-know-what? What is she...oh right. I forgot.

"Oh right...sorry." I rubbed my head bashfully.

"But anyway, you never had fun before like playing games or spend time with your friends?" Carrie asked curiously.

"We have not. Pray tell what is fun?" Luna asked us curiously. 

"Well...um..." I rubbed my head bashfully, wondering on how should I explain it. "Hmm...what is fun?"

"Ren...I thought you knew what it was. After all, you are the definition of fun." Kodi chuckled with a light smile.

"Ain't that the truth?" Kaede giggled, causing me to chuckle nervously and sweat-drop before resuming to Luna's question.

"Well you see, I wonder that too Luna. What is fun?" I wondered until I remember a certain cartoon that described fun for me. "Here, let me spell it for you all!"


Ren:


F is for friends who do stuff together! U is for you and me! N is for anywhere and anytime at all!



Chorus:


Down here in Equestria!


Everypony gave me incredulous looks after singing that short song. "...We still thou not understand." Luna said bluntly, causing me to tilt over in shock.

I then got back up and laughed nervously before saying "Well...to put it simply, it's just like friendship, that's all."

"He's right!" Carrie nodded before walking her over to the throw a spider game. Carrie picked up a toy spider and said "Here, give it a try. All you have to do is throw the spider into the cotton web and you win!"

Luna grabbed the spider from Carrie's hand and aimed it towards the web. She gave it a light throw which resulted in the spider landing a few inches away from the target. Luna looks back to us with a worried look.

"You can do it, princess!" Applejack encouraged.

"Yeah, give it another go!" Kaede cheered.

Luna then let out a determined and bold look and gave it another shot, and throwing the spider a bit harder, only this time...she actually managed to hit the target straight into the cotton web. 

"Ha! Your princess enjoys this 'fun'!" She said in an excited tone before looking back at us with a smile. "In what other ways may we experience it?"

We all looked at each other and smiled happily, seeing how the princess is finally enjoying it.

"Hey! Try this out!" Kodi offered, pointing towards the pumpkin catapult game. We walked over as Luna looked over it curiously.

"Fire away, princess!" I shouted as Luna nodded and loaded a pumpkin onto the catapult, pulled it back before releasing her hooves from it, and allowed the catapult to fire the pumpkin. It shot upwards and landed directly on the painted target. "Ha ha! The fun has been doubled!" Soon, other ponies came out of their hiding places and walked over to the princess, an I saw that they were enjoying themselves with her around.

"What do you know? It looks like it's working." Mason smiled. 

"Yeah! Now Luna can finally enjoy herself with the townsponies." I agreed with a smile. I can already see that this Nightmare Night won't go wrong!

"Hey, why don't you try bobbing for some apples?" Applejack suggested. "We got the best apples in Equestria, Princess?"

"I ask thou call us...I mean, me, Luna, fair Applejack." Luna requested with a soft smile. Every trick-or-treater cheered at her as Luna walked over to the barrel of water until she saw Pipsqueak fall over into the water. 

Luckily, Luna was able to save him and pulled him out of the water by lifting him by his vest. Yep, she's finally accepted to this town! Now, nothing can go wrong!

"Hey everypony! Anyone seen Pip?"

Oh crap-baskets!

We all turned to see Pinkie and the other children walking by as Pinkie asked "We lost him the last time we had to run..." As soon as she noticed Luna holding Pipsqueak by the vest, she let out a chicken sound and screamed.

"Nightmare Moon is gobbling Pipsqueak! Everypony run!" Pinkie screamed, along with the other foals as they immediately ran away in fear. Pipsqueak did so and struggled to get out of Luna's hold, screaming in terror as he ran and exclaimed "My backside has been gobbled!"

"Wait! Oh dang it, Pinkie!" Kaede exclaimed.

"Tis a lie! Thy backside is whole and ungobbled, thou ungrateful whelp!" Luna yelled in anger before stomping her hoof through the hard concrete ground, along with the sound of thunder and a blast of lightning making everypony back away in fear. 

"Uh oh..." Me, Kodi, Mason, Kaede, and Carrie muttered in shock. This can't be good...

Luna soon realized that they were feeling intimidated by her again as she said "Fair villagers, please do not back away! Let us join together...uh..."

She looked around before teleporting to the spider throwing game. "...Fun!" She exclaimed before picking up the spider and throwing it over to the ponies, who only flinched at it.

"No offense, but they get scared too easily..." Kodi sighed, which I nodded in agreement. He's right, they're too easily scared.

"Not enough fun for you? What say you to this?" Luna asked before her horn glowed and shot a beam of magic straight at the toy spider, who started to transformed into a real one, scaring everypony as they immediately ran away in fear. I immediately took out my Hacking Gun and aimed it at the giant spider.

"Burn!" I exclaimed, firing multiple 'Burn' shots straight towards the giant spider, causing it to be burned and turned into ashes, much to our relief.

"How many points do I receive?" Luna asked with a smile, causing the pony by the counter to screamed in terror, along with everypony else. "Do not run away! As your princess we command you!"

Uh oh...

"L-Luna! Calm down!" I tried to as she began getting irritated by the second as he watched everypony running away and screaming like maniacs. She gritted her teeth in anger and yelled "Be still!"

Her Royal Canterlot Voice echoed throughout the entire town, making everypony who was screaming lay in fear.

"Princess Luna!" Carrie called over in worried.

"Princess, remember! Watch the screaming!" Twilight warned, but Luna glared at us as her eyes started to glow white.

"No Twilight Sparkle! We must use the traditional Royal Canterlot Voice for what we are about to say!" She exclaimed before turning to us all and flew in midair. "Since you chosen to fear your princess rather than love her and dishonor her with this insulting celebration, we decree that Nightmare Night shall be canceled...forever!"

We all froze in shock upon hearing this. This can't be happening! This was our first Nightmare Night and it's going to be canceled forever?! Before any of us could respond or move, Luna vanished from the flash of lightning.

"Nightmare Night canceled...forever?!" Kaede exclaimed.

"But...she can't do that!" Kodi exclaimed before looking at me with a worried look. "Can she?"

"...I'm afraid so, Kodiak." I sighed sadly as we looked around, seeing everypony becoming heartbroken that Nightmare Night will be gone for the rest of their lives. The foals were crying and moaning in sadness while I grew sad that none of them weren't gonna celebrate Nightmare Night anymore. There's gotta be something we can do...

"*sob*..." Huh? Is somepony crying? We looked over and saw Carrie crying. 

"Carrie, please don't cry." Mason said, bending down to her height and giving her a hug. "Please...I'm sure we can fix this..."

"But...it's not fair. Princess Luna didn't do anything wrong all because everyone is just afraid of someone they don't know!" Oh, don't get me started on that. First Zecora, now Luna? Yep, I feel like this town don't get a lot of different visitors from other places these days...No offense to them.

"Carrie, just calm down. We'll figure something out." Mason assured with a soft smile. His pet squirrels, Nate and Maddy, came out of his werewolf costume and nuzzled her cheek, making Carrie smile a bit.

I looked at her with a sad look before making a determined look. "Guys...we need to find Luna."

"Huh? But we don't even know where she went!" Kaede said in surprise. 

"Ren's right!" Twilight agreed with a serious expression. "I'm going to do what I do best. Lecture her!"

"Yeah! Come on everypony! Let's go!" I exclaimed. "I mean, I know Luna was upset and had no choice but to banned Nightmare Night, but it wasn't her fault! It was all of our faults because we didn't respect her and kept fearing her because of her past, but she changed thanks to the Elements of Harmony! Now we're gonna try and bring back the spirit of Halloween/Nightmare Night back to everypony's hearts!" 

Whoa...after saying all that, I felt inspired by it. I noticed my friends giving me surprised expressions as I asked "What? Did I say something wrong?"

"N-no Ren, it's just that...wow." Kaede said in amazement. "You inspired us all thanks to your little pep talk."

"Mm-hmm. I can't believe that I'm being encouraged by a kid, but..." Mason warmly smiled at me. "Thanks for the speech."

"Yeah! That was amazing!" Carrie nodded.

"Ren's right! We gotta go and save Nightmare Night and Princess Luna! If we don't, then we won't have be able to get any candy forever along with Princess Luna!" Kodi exclaimed in fear. 

"Yeah..." Twilight nodded before turning to me. "Come on! I think I know where she went!"

"Alright, follow the way Twi!" I replied as Twilight led us to where she thinks where Luna went. Hang on Luna, it's not too late to change your mind!



"Seriously? Back here again?" I sighed before face-palming. "No offense Twi, but do you think there's a better place than to keep coming back here?"

"Trust me Ren, she has to be here." Twilight assured until she spotted her near the statue. "There she is!"

"P-Princess Luna..." Carrie called for her. Luna glanced at us before looking back at the statue with a sad look and replied "Leave me be, my friends..."

"Princess..." I walked over to her with a soft grin and said "We're sorry if this didn't worked out how we wanted. But you have to believe me when I tell you that Nightmare Night is one of the most favorite holiday ever! I mean, this is actually my first time me and my friends are doing this. So please, give us another chance..."

"But even so..." Luna looks down with a sad look. "They'll be scared of me and run away in fear of me..."

"Luna..." I muttered sadly.

"Well, it's not their fault that they keep getting scared that easily." Carrie pointed out. "I mean, mostly we see them with Pinkie and she makes some random stuff up, right?"

"Now that you mention it, we do see her with the little children and keeps making them fear Luna." Kaede thought until we all looked at each other and made a smile.

"I think we found our problem!" I exclaimed in joy. "And I think I know how to draw her in."

"Really how?" Kodi asked as I looked at him with a sneaky grin. Ooh, this is going to be so fun!



Later

"Are thou sure this will work?" 

"Don't worry Luna, I'm positive." I assured her as I finished putting down the last piece of candy on the floor all the way here in this alleyway. 

"Same here, if I know her for a while, she's too gullible to fall for anything." Mason agreed as we waited for her to arrive. See, the plan was simple for us. We used some of our candy to make a trail here so that we might draw Pinkie Pie in this alley to confront her.

"Hey, I hear something." Kodi said, his ears perking up as we saw noticed somepony eating the candy trail I made. I took a closer look and saw it was Pinkie, and just make sure she doesn't noticed us by where she could probably see us. I took out my Hacking Gun and shot 'Paralyze' at her, shocking Pinkie. It was enough time for Twilight to tackle her and pin her on the ground as the effects of 'Paralyze' were gone.

"No! No shrieking! No screaming or squealing either. Okay?" Twilight demanded as she covered Pinkie's mouth to make sure that she doesn't scream.

"Okay." Pinkie said through Twilight's hoof.

"Pinkie..." Kaede walked over to her with a serious expression. "There's something we want you to see. And we promise that it's safe, but you really, really can't shriek. Do you promise not to shriek."

"Mm-hmm." Pinkie nodded, making Twilight to remove her hoof from her mouth. Once so, she saw Luna walked out of the darkness of the alleyway, making Pinkie squawk fearfully for her but realized what she promised as she covered her mouth with her hooves.

"Pinkie Pie, you remember Princess Luna, right?" Twilight asked.

"Ah, the ringleader of the frightened children." Luna said, glaring at her. "Hast thou come to make peace?" She made a soft smile and raised her hoof at Pinkie. Pinkie saw it and slowly tried to reach it, but unfortunately, it happened.

BAM!

"What the?!" Mason exclaimed in shock.

"AAAHH! Nightmare Moon!" Pinkie screamed, making another chicken sound.

"Rainbow!" Twilight yelled as we looked up to see a cackling Rainbow in her Shadowbolt costume.

"Ha ha ha! Sorry, I couldn't help myself!" Rainbow exclaimed, laughing very hard. I sighed and raised my Hacking Gun at her, shooting 'Break' at her, causing her to blast off somewhere not too far, hopefully. I then noticed the raised brows at everyone's faces, causing me to be confuse.

"What? She ruined the moment with her little prank." I shrugged until I noticed PInkie getting away. "Oh no, you don't! Dance!" I shot 'Dance' at her, and once the melody note beam hit her, she began dancing non-stop until Mason grabbed her by the mane.

"Alright, that's enough Pinkie Pie!" Mason exclaimed. "Like Twilight and Ren stated, she's completely change!"

"Yeah!" Carrie agreed with a nod, making a serious expression. "She's not evil or scary anymore, and she definitely doesn't want to gobble you up!"

"...Well duh!" Pinkie said, much to our surprise as we all said "Huh?!"

"I know that, you guys!" Pinkie giggled. "I'm almost as big as her, how's she gonna gobble me up?!"

"Then why in the world do you keep running away and screaming all the time and make the others scream as well?!" Kaede demanded.

"Sometimes it's just really fun to be scared!" Pinkie smiled.

"Fun?" Kodi wondered. I crossed my arms and thought for a while at what she said. Fun...Ah! That's it.

"That's it! Pinkie, you're a genius!" I said with a happy grin.

"She is?!" Kodi exclaimed.

"No, I'm not! I'm a chicken!" Pinkie stated before making another chicken sound, causing us to sweat-dropped.

"Yeah...I think genius is pushing it there." Mason said as he dropped Pinkie on the ground before looking back at me with a small grin. "So Ren, what's the plan?"

"Well you see, why not we make everypony love Luna by being scared by her?" I suggested, much to everypony's confusion. "Think about it, this is Nightmare Night so everypony loves a good scare, right?"

"That could work!" Twilight beamed at that idea. "Ren, that's a great plan! Alright, let's try it out!" 

"Are thou sure about this?" Luna asked in concern.

"Don't worry Luna, I'm positive this will work!" I assured before saying "I mean, what could go wrong?"

As if on cue, we heard screams of terrors coming outside of town. 

"You just had to say that, didn't you?" Kaede sighed, causing me to rub my cheek in embarrassment. Well, it's not my fault that it would happened. 

"Come on! Let's go find out what's happening!" Mason exclaimed before turning back to Carrie and Luna. "Carrie, stay here with Luna. We don't want the townspeople to fear her again and I don't want you to get hurt, okay?"

"Got it!" Carrie nodded as we ran into the scene in order to find out what's happening. As soon as we arrived, we all widened to see shadow monsters attacking and scaring the ponies.

"What's happening?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"Uhh...does this normally happen?!" Kaede asked in fear.

"No! I never seen these things before!" Twilight shook her head while I took a closer look at them. Hold on, haven't I seen them before?....Wait!

"I-it's them..." I muttered, loud enough for them to hear. "It's those shadow monsters that we encountered back at the Castle of the Two Sisters."

"What?!" Twilight looked at me in shock. "Since when?!"

"Well, it was when you went after Nightmare Moon when you tried to make the Elements of Harmony working that me and the others went pursuing you until we encountered these things. We assumed that they were Nightmare Moon's minions, but after we turn her back into Luna and seeing them now, it seems that I was wrong." I explained until I saw a shadow monster chasing some of the fillies, and Spike was with them. 

"Oh no! Spike!" I gasped, drawing my friends' attention. I quickly drew out my Hacking Gun and shot 'Break' at it, destroying it. Spike became relieved and looked back at us with a wave and said "Thanks!"

"Your welcome!" I called back.

"What are we gonna do?!" Kodi asked in worried.

"We need to protect everypony from these shadow monsters." Twilight said with a serious expression before blasting one of them with a beam of magic.

"With pleasure!" Mason nodded before drawing his bamboo pole. "It's a good thing I brought this with me!" He quickly ran and managed to save some of the ponies from the shadow monsters.

"But wait! What can I do?!" Kaede asked. I looked around and saw a bow and a bunch of arrows sitting around see the archery game. I quickly picked it up and threw them at Kaede, making her catch them.

"Use them!" I yelled, much to her surprise.

"But I don't know even the first thing of using a bowing arrow!" Kaede exclaimed.

"Well, tried to think of it like your sewing and making clothes." I assured, causing Kaede to sigh.

"Well...I'll give it a try at least." Kaede sighed as a shadow monster appeared right before her, causing me to gasp and shoot it with 'Burn', burning it into oblivion. Kaede sighed in relief before smiling and said "And thanks for saving me."

"Anytime Kaede!" I assured with a grin before continuing to shoot multiple shadows with my Hacking Gun. Some of them were quite similar to animals like wolves, crocodiles, frogs, tigers, and bears. I don't know why, but these things just give me the creeps. I saw Mason swatting them away with his bamboo stick with some help from Applejack and Big Mac, who were apple-bucking some of these monsters.

Kaede and Twilight managed to standby as Twilight was shooting many of those that comes to their side while Kaede tries out her bowing arrow and managed to at least shooting some of them while mostly she keeps missing them. Well, it's a working progress and it's a good thing nobody is getting from either the monsters and those bowing arrows.

"AHHH!" Me and Kodi turned to see a familiar yellow Pegasus backing away in a corner as two shadow wolves confronted her with growling teeth.

"Fluttershy!" I exclaimed. What was she doing?! Oh right, I asked her to decide whether or not to not participate Nightmare Night. 

"Ren! Help me!" Fluttershy pleaded.

"Don't worry, we'll save you!" I said, aiming my Hacking Gun at them. 

"I got this!" Kodi said as he ran towards them and bit one of their legs, causing them to wince and tried to shake him off. I managed to shoot both of them down with 'Break', destroying them for good. Kodi fell on the ground and shook his head before smiling happily and said "So how did I do?"

"You did well, thanks boy." I winked before scratching his chin, much to his relief. Fluttershy came over and gave me a tight hug, at the verge of tears.

"Thank you Ren! I thought..." Fluttershy tried to hold back some tears as I hugged her back. 

"It's okay Fluttershy, we're here." I soothed, patting her on the back. "Just calm down Flutters."

"T-thank you, still..." Fluttershy sighed in relief while I asked "So what are you doing here?"

"Yeah, we thought you were gonna stay in your cottage for the rest of Nightmare Night?" Kodi asked. "We thought you hated it because you were afraid it."

"Well true, but..." Fluttershy looked at me with a soft smile. "If I had to choose between to stay in my cottage for the rest of Nightmare Night or spend it with my special somepony, then I would gladly take the second choice."

"Flutters..." I smiled softly at her, feeling happy that she would tried to conquer her fear to spend time with us. I'm...so happy to hear. Suddenly, she and Kodi let out a gasp, much to my confusion. 

...Oh no, it's standing behind me, isn't that? I turned back and saw a shadow bear monster right behind me. Yep, called it.

"Ren! Look out!" Kodiak exclaimed as he jumped on the bear and bit it's leg, causing it to roar in agony before shaking him off and landing in my arms. "Well...at least I tried."

"Yeah, now it's my turn." I said, aiming my Hacking Gun at it. But as I pushed the trigger, nothing came out. I kept pushing the trigger, trying to make something come out, much to my annoyance. What's wrong with this thing? I looked over at the battery power and saw it was out of juice. "Ahh....crap-baskets."

"Oh dear." Fluttershy muttered in shock as the bear was about to slash us until it was shot in the back with the bowing arrow, causing it to poof. 

"Huh?" I looked over to see Kaede was the one who was able to shoot it as she pulled a grin and said "I think I'm getting the hang of it."

"Thanks Kaede!" I thanked her, which she returned a thumbs-up until we saw more and more shadow monsters coming out. I don't get it! Where are they even coming from?!

"There's too many of them!" Mason exclaimed, seeing them surrounding everypony, including us. Great, the Megaphone Hacking Gun is already out of power, Kaede is out of ammo, Twilight, Mason, Applejack, and Big mac are getting exhausted. Is there anything we can do?

"We're done for!" Kodi exclaimed as he tugged into my costume in fear. "Ren, if we don't make it, I want to tell you that you're the best friend a dog could ever ask!"

"Same as you Kodiak!" I said, hugging him and Fluttershy tight.

"And also, I was the one who ate your pancakes for breakfast this morning!" Kodi exclaimed, much to my shock as I looked at him in shock and said "Wait what?!"

Suddenly, before he could respond, we felt a wind breeze through us as we looked up to see the clouds forming around the moonless night and thunder cracking and lightning flashing. Wait, where have I seen this before? Oh of course, Luna! She's here to save us! We're saved!

"You ungrateful beasts! You were wise to hurt these ponies of Ponyville! But your actions have consequences! So prepare to face the wrath of...NIGHTMARE MOON!" 

...Or not...

Unfortunately, we looked up to see instead of Princess Luna, it was none other than Nightmare Moon. Okay, what?! How is she here?! Didn't we turn Luna back to normal?! What is exactly happening here?!

"I am not pleased that you demons tried to take over this town! You should know to never upset the Mare of the Moon! Now....BEGONE!" She unleashed a shock wave to the entire town, destroying every single shadow monster. Everypony looked at her in shock as she flew down and landed on the ground. "Citizens of Ponyville! You are now safe from those demons! But know this that I am not pleased for your actions of not handing me your candy! I'm so angry that I could possibly eat all of you!"

With that, everypony let out a scream and all hide away in fear. Me, Kodi, Fluttershy, Kaede, Twilight, Mason, Applejack, and Big Mac stared at her in shock before growling at her. We defeated her once, we can do it again!

"Okay Luna, I think that's all!" Huh? Carrie came out of the alleyway and ran over with a big smile. Nightmare Moon let out a giggle and said "So...did I do well Carrie?"

Wait, what the heck? Nightmare Moon then swirled around and wrapped herself in a dark blue aura, transforming back into Princess Luna. What the heck is happening?!

"Carrie? Princess Luna?!" Kaede gasped. 

"Whoa, you saved us!" Kodi beamed happily. "Looks like you came to the right moment! We thought we were gonna die!"

"Eeyup!" Big Mac nodded.

"It is quite alright." Luna assured. "Though, I don't understand what were those creatures even doing here."

"Huh? Do you know them Princess?" I asked curiously.

"Yes, those were shadow demons. They came from Tatarus itself, but I don't understand how they got out." Princess Luna wondered.

"I see...but more importantly. Could anypony care to explain to me why did you transformed into Nightmare Moon all of a sudden?!" Twilight demanded.

"Oh, that was young Carrie's suggestion." Luna replied with a soft smile, causing us to look over here.

"Wait, so you asked her to save us from those demons while scaring everypony?" Kodi asked.

"Yep! A great plan, right?" Carrie giggled.

"But...why?" Fluttershy asked, hiding behind my back.

"Oh, you see...." Carrie began her explanation. "While you guys were fighting off those shadow monsters, I really wanted to help out in fighting them while also wanting to prove to everyone that Luna is a fun loving princess like her sister. That's when I thought of a great idea and asked Princess Luna to turn into Nightmare Moon, which was just an illusion by the way, and she managed to save all of you while giving everypony a good scare as well."

"Huh?" Mason asked in surprise. "You...really thought of that Carrie?"

"Yeah, I mean, like Pinkie said, everypony loves a good scare! Now they'll think of Luna as a hero!" Carrie giggled, which made Mason sigh and smile at her.

"Sometimes Carrie, you just surprise me." Mason patted her on the head and gave her a hug. "I'm proud of you."

"Ahh, thanks big brother." Carrie smiled, hugging back her older brother while Luna turned to her with a worried expression.

"Are you sure this is such a good idea? Wouldn't it caused them to be fear of me more?" Luna asked, having doubts about this. Before Carrie could respond, Luna felt a tug on her mane as she looked down and saw PIpsqueak with a curious expression.

"Um...Princess Luna. I know there's not gonna be anymore Nightmare Night, but do you suppose maybe you could come back next year and scare us again anyway?"

"Child. Art thou saying that thou...likest me to scare you?" Luna asked, feeling surprise of this.

"It's really fun! Scary, but fun!" Pipsqueak replied with a smile, much to Luna's surprise.

"It...is?" Luna looked over to see every foal who was hiding were peeking out, awaiting for her answer.

"Yeah! Nightmare Night is my favorite night of the year!" Pipsqueak exclaimed happily. I let out a chuckle and said "Well Luna, looks like you gotten yourself another fan. So, what now?"

Luna smiled at me before saying "Well then...We shall have to bring Nightmare Night back!"

"Hooray!" Kodi cheered happily, causing us all to smile in joy.

"Whoa! You're my favorite princess ever!" Pipsqueak declared as he gave Luna's leg a hug before running back to his friends, who were still hiding. "She said yes, guys!"

"Yay!" All the kids cheered as Luna looks over in wonder and joy.

"You see? They really do like you, Princess." Twilight said.

"Yep, and it took a great plan like that in order to make you likable." Kaede chuckled.

"Really? C-can it be true?" Luna asked herself before throwing her head and arms up, exclaiming "Oh most wonderful of-"

"A-hem!" I said, clearing my throat while giving Luna a playful glare as she realized that she can't do that anymore while blushing.

"I-I mean...oh most wonderful of nights!" Luna exclaimed happily as everypony came out of their hiding places and cheered for their princess. Five minutes later, the festival was back on as everypony was enjoying themselves, but not as much as Princess Luna as she was having the time of her life.

"Well, looks like we did it, huh?" Mason smiled at me as I replied "Sure did, but if it wasn't for your sister, I guess we wouldn't been gobbled up by those shadow monsters, eh?"

"Seems so." Kaede nodded. "I'm just glad that Luna finally has a place here and is finally accepted like she wanted. I guess she's taking some small steps in order to redeem herself, huh?"

"Yeah, she's still got a long ways to go." Mason said as he watched his sister spending time with Luna as they both enjoyed eating cotton candy together. 

"Yeah..." Kodi nodded before realizing something. "Though, there is one thing I don't get. Where did all those shadow monsters come from?"

"Actually...you make a good point." I agreed while rubbing my head bashfully. "Luna said that they came from Tatarus, and it seemed like they were locked up or something."

"Well if so, then who brought them here? At this time of night as well?" Kaede wondered.

This seems too strange. How could this have possibly happen? Oh well, I guess we won't be able to find answers tonight. We should at least enjoy it while it lasts.



Meanwhile
Up on the hills outside of the town, a cloaked figure wearing a bamboo cloak with a black mask with his left eye visible while his right eye was darkened watched over Ponyville as he said "Well...it seems to me my shadow demons were to no use for me once more. Oh well, I should've realized that. Besides, there were no use to me. It was merely amusing of me for releasing them out of their prison again to go and try to get revenge on those that trapped them in Tatarus for a millennia. Oh well, time to go out and find someone else to manipulate for my own...amusement."

With that, he disappeared in a flash, leaving no trace behind except for an evil laughter.



Later
We were all back at the Nightmare Moon statue, and Fluttershy was with me as we watched over Twilight sending another message to Princess Celestia.

"Dear Princess Celestia, when you first sent me to Ponyville, I didn't know anything about friendship. I met somepony tonight who was having the same problem - your sister, Princess Luna. She taught me that one of the best things you can do with friendship is to give it to others and help them find it themselves." Twilight stated as Carrie went up next.

"I'm also glad to finally spend more time with Luna. She had an amazing time here tonight in Ponyville, and the rest of us as well. I'm happy to hear that everyone learned that even if somepony seems a little intimidating, even scary, when you offer them your friendship, you'll discover a whole new pony underneath." 

"Nice job, Carrie." Mason smiled.

"Thanks big brother." Carrie chuckled happily.

"And while Twilight's costume didn't go so well, it still turned out to be the best Nightmare Night ever." I finished up the letter with a grin before taking a bite of a candy corn next to me, Kodi, and Spike's candy pile. Twilight gave an amuse smirk before her horn glow and made my hat tilted down on my face, blinding my sight. "Oh har har har, very funny Twi."

"Well serves you right for judging my Starswirl The Bearded costume." Twilight said. Huh? What the?

"Hey, isn't that Rainbow Dash?" Kaede pointed out as a dark cloud, along with a certain rainbow colored mane Pegasus came over with a sneaky cackle. I thought I taught her a lesson or two about this? That's when it happened. Another dark cloud appeared before her and made a lightning sound, causing Dash to be frightened and fly off in fear.

"AHHHHH!" Rainbow screamed before disappearing.

"Well...that was certainly surprising." Mason said before we all looked over to the small dark cloud and saw it was Princess Luna herself that did that. She gave us a wink before we all started laughing, which she eventually joined in.

Soon after that, Fluttershy turned to me with a soft smile and said "You know, I must thank you for inviting me over to Nightmare Night. This is the first time I ever been out in this holiday."

"Really?" I asked in surprise.

"Yeah, since I was younger. I never liked being scared by others, but thanks to you Ren, I feel...happy of spending Nightmare Night with my friends." Fluttershy giggled.

"Heh heh...thanks." I blushed a bit as she gave me a quick kiss on the cheek, much to my embarrassment. Well didn't see that coming.

"Well anyway, I must be off." Luna said in a serious tone. "I must go back home and tell my sister about what happened tonight. I need to figure out why did those shadow demons came out of Tatarus."

"We understand and happy Nightmare Night, Princess Luna." Mason bowed as Carrie came over and gave Luna's leg a hug.

"And I hope we see each other again, Luna." Carrie giggled, causing Luna to smile happily at the young girl as she replied "Same as well, young Carrie."

She returned the hug to her before flying off back to Canterlot.

"Well this was a fun night!" Kodi exclaimed as his belly was nearly filled up with all the candy he was eating.

"It sure was, and it looks like it's time to head home. It was fun spending time with you Flutters and Twi." I said with a smile.

"Yep, we should get going. Happy Nightmare Night." Kaede wished them as we headed home while Fluttershy gave me a quick kiss on the cheek again, making me blush a bit. I then returned the favor by kissing her on the cheek, making her blush as well.

"You owe me..." Fluttershy whispered, which I nodded as we began to walk out of the Everfree Forest and headed back home.

We returned Fluttershy back to her cottage, wishing her goodnight, as we continued our way back to the home-ship. Carrie stretched her back a little and said "You know, I'm glad we managed to get Princess Luna feel accepted by everypony here."

"Yeah! And we somehow managed to save Nightmare Night if it wasn't for you Carrie." Kaede chuckled as we finally gotten to the doorsteps of our home-ship.

"Exactly, good plan back there sis." Mason smirked at her.

"Aww, thanks." Carrie giggled.

"Ooh...I'm so full..." Kodi said, rubbing his aching tummy. I sighed and grinned at him before saying "Well that's what happens when you eat too much candy, Kodi."

"Same for you as well, Ren." Kaede said, smiling at me. I chuckled nervously and realized that she was right. Oh well, it was a fun night and I don't have any regrets about wearing this pirate costume at all!

As soon as we entered the place and turned on the lights, we were met by a surprise.

"Huh?!" We all asked upon seeing a new figure in the room. It was a human boy with short spike blue hair with a small ahoge. He was wearing a simply dark black shirt with a red tie that has a strange symbol on it, wore dark blue jeans, fancy brown dress shoes with dark brown laces and had a small book in his arms. He had dark blue eyes and a pale skin tone and a slim figure.

"W-w-who's there?!" He asked before noticing us, his expression turning pale. "S-stay away from me! Please don't hurt me!"

"Whoa whoa, calm down!" I said, trying to calm him down. "Look, we're surprised as you, so please don't panic."

"Yeah, you heard Ren. Just relax and stay calm." Kodi barked, making him even more scared from before. 

"AAHHHHHHHHHH!" He screamed in fear before passing out. We all looked at him on the floor with sweat-drops and confusion. Kodi jumped off my arms, his tummy still aching, but was able to move towards the boy and looked at him with wondered before looking back at us with a confused look.

"....Did I say something wrong?"

To Be Continued
> Chapter 33 - The Cutie Pox! A Reason To Live?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"HA HA HA HA!"

A young boy was seen being pushed into some garbage with tears in his eyes. The three bullies laughed at him, seeing what a pointless loser with no reason to live lying in the garbage while he cries. That loser...was me...

"Look at him guys, he's such a loser!"

"Yeah, no one likes a smart snitch in class! Serves you right for telling on me the other day for stealing lunch money from someone!"

"Ha! Enjoy your life mama's boy!" 

They began laughing at me as I continued to cry, unable to fight back or say something back to them.

After that dreadful day, I didn't go to school and instead stayed at the family mansion and read books to some of my little sisters. My family's library was very huge, so there    was plenty of time for me to read all day.

"Please, you have to talk to him. I received a call from the principal and he told us that Jamie hasn't gone to school for a while. He's been having some bullying troubles! Please, go talk to him!" Oh, that's my parents talking. Or at least...my mother arguing my father.

"Look, I'm very busy with my business, so I have no time for this nonsense." Father....as always, he doesn't bother to talk to me or my sisters.

"This is what you do! You never bother to give support to your children and always focus on your work than your own family!"  My mother complained. I kept ignoring their talks and just continued to read a book in my room. I...I have no reason to live...all this troubles I keep having...I...I don't want this...



....Huh? Where am I? I slowly got up, finding myself in some room. How did I get here? All I remember was awakening in that pod, and finding myself in some room, and all of a sudden...I saw those monsters along with a talking dog! Oh, thank goodness it was all a dream. Huh? Hold up, I don't remember being in this room. I looked over to the window next to the right and looked over to see some town, and...ponies?! What's going on here!?

I immediately got up and examined the small room I was in. Strange, the walls feels like tree bark. Is this some sort of tree house I'm in? Oh, it sounds like someone in downstairs. I can hear some voices. I wonder if the people who set me on this bed are here? Before I took my leave, I saw my journal on the desk. Oh my, thank goodness that I still have it.

You see, my journal is what I used to take notes of everything I see whenever I learn something new. It's not because I have short term memory loss, I want to use them for if I need to teach someone or do research about it.

I picked it up and headed out of the small room, and saw myself being upstairs. I slowly walked out and saw downstairs from up here. Hmm, judging by all these book shelves, I say it must be a library. But why did I sleep in here? It's not the family's library nor any library I've ever visited.

"So how's he doing Twi and Spike?" Huh? I saw some people sitting down on the couches with...a purple equine? What's happening? And does that equine have a horn?! W-what's going on?! And is that a dragon?! Okay okay, calm down Jamie. Please calm down...this all has to be dream and I'm dreaming...right?

"I mean, with what happened the other night, he was scared out of his wits." A boy with orange hair said with concern.

"Well he's been doing alright, but just a bit out." The purple equine assured. "But besides that, I noticed that his eyes were quite baggy."

"Yeah, it's like he had zero sleep since ever!" The purple dragon with green spikes nodded. Hey! I-I resent that...It's true that I never slept for a while, but that's because I was busy writing another part of my book.

"It's strange really..." A man with a red scarf wrapped around his neck said, rubbing his chin in thought. "When we first found him, his eyes were already like that. Besides, I checked over the pod and found a fifth pod in there. I assume that he might've woken up when we were out in Nightmare Night."

Nightmare Night? What's that? This might be something good to take some info by writing this down in my notes, but now isn't the time.

"Guess whoever he is, he must worked real hard to stay up all night, huh?" The girl with the red hair said. "Though...I can't help but think that I might've seen him before."

"Really? Did you look familiar to you before showing up in Equestria?" The purple equine asked curiously.

"I think...if I saw his face again, then maybe that might help." She replied with a shrug.

Saw my face again? Does she even know me? After all, I'm just some loser that nobody bothers to pay attention or even realize if I exist. She's probably mistaken me for someone else.

"Hoo?" Huh? Who said that? "Hoo." I slowly turned around, only to face to face with some owl. I blinked in surprise and let out a shriek before accidentally slipping on the steps, and falling very hard on the steps.

OW OW OW OW OW OW! Okay, I deserve that...

"Huh?" Everyone turned to me with surprised looks on their faces.

"Hey, isn't that...?" The dragon came over and looked at me before putting his hand on my forehead. "Yeowch...he sure took a hard hit to the ground."

"Yeah..." The purple equine came over with a curious expression. As soon as my dizziness was over, I was met with concern and worried looks from them. "Are you okay?" She asked in concern, causing me to shriek in fear.

"Ah! Please don't hurt me! I'll do anything you want!" I cried in fear.

"Calm down, we're not here to hurt you." The red scarfed kid said. "Get ahold of yourself."

"I-I'm so sorry, I didn't mean t-to frighten you all." I sighed in relief. "But I'm questioning one thing....why is there a talking equine in here?!"

"Talking equine? Oh, you mean Twilight?" The boy with orange hair asked. 

"Umm...excuse me?" The purple...I mean, Twilight looked at me with an annoyed look. "I'm not a equine, I happen to be a pony. More specifically, a Unicorn."

"A-A Unicorn?!" I exclaimed in shock. "That's impossible! Unicorns are nothing more than myth! I even read about them and there's no shred of evidence that they're real!"

"Hey!" Twilight exclaimed in annoyance, feeling offended.

"Everyone, calm down." The girl with red hair said, trying to ease off the argument. "Now then, let's take a breather and relax. How about we start over? Let's introduce ourselves for him to get to know." 

"I see why not." The orange-haired boy shrugged with a grin. "Names Ren Loodan. Nice to meet ya, dude."

"Loodan?" I questioned. "Oh, that's Estonian for Hope, correct?"

"Yes! Finally, someone gets it!" Ren grinned, while everyone else sighed.

"I am Mason Hunter, a personal bodyguard of Elena Ortega and a good friend of Ren, my sister, and others." The red-scarfed boy known as Mason introduced himself with a bow.

"Elena Ortega?" I asked before realizing that name. "Ah yes, she's the heir of the Ortega corporation, which resides in England."

"Y-yes. I am surprise that you know that." Mason said with a surprised look.

"Oh sorry, I didn't mean to be rude..." I sighed with a sad look.

"No, it's not being rude, just surprised for someone like you would know that." Mason clarified. I looked down, avoiding his gaze and replied "I-I see, well it's just that my family is very close to the Ortega Family as we helped them in many business trades."

"Huh? Really?" Mason wondered. "I see..." 

Umm, so this is the personal bodyguard of the heir of the Ortega Family. I have heard rumors about him and through research, is a master prodigy of Kendo. Looking at him really frightens me...

"I'm Twilight Sparkle, a fellow student of Princess Celestia who is studying the magic of Friendship." Twilight smiled before frowning in annoyance. "And please don't call me a myth. That's very offensive."

"I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to make you angry!" I pleaded with a worried look. Twilight raised a brow before saying "It's okay. I'm just telling that."

"Oh...so sorry." I sighed. Well at least she doesn't say mean comments to me. Or maybe...is she thinking about them? Does she hate me or something?

"I'm Spike! Twilight's Number#1 Assistant!" The little purple dragon known as Spike introduced himself with a confident grin.

"Spike..." I muttered aloud. "Hmm...are you perhaps a dragon?"

"Yeah! What? You never have ones from where you and the others are from?" He asked in confusion.

"No, I read that dragons are also mythical..." I said before realizing what I said. "Oh! I-I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to make you angry!"

"I-it's okay! I was just asking, that's all." Spike shrugged innocently before whispering to Twilight. "This guy is scared as a chicken..."

I frowned and sighed sadly. He's not wrong...I'm just a foolish coward....

"I'm Kaede Ross, nice to meet you." The red haired known as Kaede greeted me. "So what's your name? I don't we caught it."

"W-well, it's not like you guys will even remember me at all, but...My name is Jamie W-Watson." I greeted myself.

"Jamie Watson..." She thought for a while until she let out a gasp. "I know you! You're THE Jamie Watson."

"Huh?" I asked. So someone does know me? But...how?

"So you do know him?" Twilight asked in surprise.

"Yeah, I've seen him a few times on the news." She said with a smile. "He's the heir to his family's fortune and the author of many mystery books and other subjects! I love reading any of his mystery solving books! I'm a huge fan!"

"Oh...so I guess someone does know me..." I muttered aloud.

"Ah, now I'm too familiar with that name." Mason nodded. "Apparently, hearing his last name, he might be related to Mr. Watson, a fellow wealthy man who takes his job seriously, but very dependable in the Ortega Family's Business Trade." 

"Yeah, that sounds like father..." I sighed sadly, clutching on my notebook real hard.

"So you're rich?!" Ren exclaimed in shock before grinning. "Wow, that's awesome!"

"Not exactly awesome..." I muttered aloud, which they all heard.

"What do you mean by that?" Spike asked curiously, causing me to wince and cover my mouth with my notebook. Why did I say that aloud? See, I have a habit to do that kind of stuff.

"N-nothing...just ignore me..." I sighed sadly, glancing away from their curious gazes.

"Okay..." Ren rubbed his head bashfully before saying "Anyway, I know you're confused about all this, but to put it simply, this is Equestria."

"Equestria?" I asked, my ears perking up on that name. "Tell me! Please!"

"S-sure..." Ren chuckled nervously over my excitement. "Anyway, Equestria is a world filled with talking ponies and all. Some are Earth Ponies, like normal horses but with brute strength, and some are Pegasus, who can fly, and others are Unicorn like Twilight, who can use Magic. Trust me, there are many mythical creatures out here. I once read them on a Manga."

"He's right." Twilight nodded with a smile. "I know you're confused about all of this, but once you get used to this place, you'll be fine."

"Huh? Once you get used to this place? But what about home?" I asked, feeling scared.

"Do not worry, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are trying to find a way to bring us back." Mason assured with a soft grin. "And if you ask, they're the rulers of this land. Both powerful Alicorns."

"A-Alicorns?" I exclaimed in shock and curiously. I see, well if I am stuck in this place, I can't help but take notes of this. Good thing I always keep my Number#2 Pencil in my shirt pockets. I quickly took one out and started taking some info in it.

"What are you doing?" Spike asked.

"I'm taking notes. See, whenever I learn something new, I love taking some notes to research and learn more about." I answered with a soft smile. "I even sometimes overwork myself with books."

"Wait, books?" Twilight perked up on that with an excited grin. "You mean...you do research from books?!"

"O-of course, I love reading books since I was a kid. The family's library is very massive, and I read that place twice." I smiled happily, hearing that someone appreciates it. 

"You read a library twice?! I read my school's library twice too! I once even read the entire library here as well!" Twilight let out a squeal of joy, while the others simply chuckled at our excited.

"I know! This is so amazing!" I happily smiled before realizing that they were there, causing me to flinch and said "Oh...I'm so sorry!"

"For what? We weren't doing anything." Ren shrugged.

"For annoying you with my smile. I didn't mean to disappoint..." I said sadly.

"We don't mind." Kaede shook her head. "Though, it's very nice to meet you, Jamie."

"Umm...thank you, I guess...Miss Kaede." I said nervously, nearly covering my face with my journal.

"What's up with him? He acts like Fluttershy." Spike whispered to Ren, who shrugged. Fluttershy? Wonder who is that?

Though, I am surprised that this young lady knows me. Why?

"Anyway..." Mason turned to me with a serious expression. "I would like to ask what happened when you awoken from the pod?"

"The pod?" I asked in confusion.

"The sleeping pod from where you awakened." He clarified before saying "That's where me, my sister, Kaede, and Ren awoken."

"Oh..." I nodded in understanding. "Well, I was scared and tried to find my way out until I found a secret way out and find myself in some apartment room. That's when I saw some monsters and a talking dog and freaked out before blacking out."

"Oh that, well actually, that was us in costumes. We were celebrating Nightmare Night." Ren said with a nervous grin.

"Nightmare Night?" I asked.

"Basically, it's like Halloween." Kaede explained.

"It's true. Nightmare Night is some connection around Nightmare Moon, an evil entity we once encountered, but defeated." Twilight explained with a joyful grin. I took some notes down in my journal, trying to copy down notes about this Nightmare Night.

"I-I see...sorry for freaking out there..." I apologized sadly before realizing something. "Hold on! I remember there being four mon...I mean, people in costumes there, along with that talking dog! I know I wasn't imagining things!"

"Oh, you mean Kodiak?" Spike asked, much to my confusion.

"Kodiak?" I asked. "Isn't that the name of a city somewhere in Alaska?"

"Yeah, that's the name of my dog." Ren replied. "I understand if you were shocked when saw him talking, but he's a very good dog friend. Even I was shocked when I first him, but we were getting along very well."

"So wait, we have talking dogs here?" I asked, sweat-dropping a little.

"Well, technically no." Twilight shook her head. "I read a few books a while back before I came to Ponyville and discovered that there are some animals that can have the ability to talk by birth."

"A talking dog..." I muttered with widened eyes. There's no way I'm going to believe this...right? 

"Ha...he's even shocked than you guys were when you first Kodi." Spike chuckled, nudging Mason a bit, who crossed his arms and sighed.

"So anyway, I understand that you're confused by all this, but trust us, you'll get used to this until Princess Celestia finds a way to get you back home." Twilight assured with a soft grin. 

I sighed sadly and nodded before saying "Yes...okay, ma'am."

"Please, call me Twilight." She chuckled with a smile, causing me to blush a bit. Why are they being so nice to me? Is this a trick?...Are they letting my guard down before they revealed their true colors when the time comes? If so, then it's going to be another tough challenge for me to bear....

"A-anyway, may I ask one question?" I spoke up curiously. "Wasn't there four people in costumes I say before I passed out?"

"Oh, you must mean Carrie." Kaede replied, much to my confusion. "She's Mason little sister."

"Little sister?" I asked, looking over the tall slender man. 

"Yes, I am sorry if she couldn't have meet you. You see, she's busy playing with her friends, but tomorrow will be her first day of school." Mason explained with a serious expression on his face.

"Wait...you mean, go to school in a world filled with talking ponies and mythical creatures?" I asked, raising a brow at him.

"Yes. Even if we are trapped here, I wouldn't want my little sister to forget about her education." Mason replied. 

"Right..." I sighed. They're accepting this situation for how long exactly?

"But since you're here, I guess we can show you the home-ship." Ren chuckled, much to my confusion.

"The home-ship?" 

"The home-ship is the place where we awakened. It's also a good place where we can sleep, eat, and stay at until we managed to find a way to get back home." He explained. "But other than that, we discovered new rooms in the home-ship when you got out of the pod."

"New rooms?" I asked. "So that ship has unique rooms that we used as a normal spaceship?"

"Well...I guess." Ren shrugged. 

"Besides, our friends are checking it out right now. Plus, a new thing appeared in the living room. You should check it out." Kaede said with a smile.

"Umm....are you sure?" I asked in fear. "I-Is this some sort of prank you guys aren't doing to me, right?"

"A prank? What are you talking about?" Ren asked me, causing me to look at them with suspicious.

"Y-you guys are probably gonna drop my guard so that you might hurt me, right?" I clarified. I know they can't fool me. Just because one of them knows me, doesn't mean that they'll either use me or bully me.

"Of course not!" Twilight shook her head. "We wouldn't do that!"

"A-Are you sure? Can I really trust you guys at all?" I asked, feeling suspicious of them.

"Sure you can!" Ren grinned brightly at me. "I mean, we're not bad guys! Besides, all of our friends are unique in their own way. Trust me."

"...O-Okay." I sighed, admitting defeat. Oh well, I got no choice...

"Well, shall we go?" Mason softly smiled. "We need to check over to see what our friends found. We couldn't explore the new rooms due to us being too tired from last night."

"You got it, Mason!" Ren grinned before turning to me, causing me to flinch. "Come on Jamie! Let's go!"

"Huh?...Are you really serious?" I asked in shocked.

"Well of course. We're friends, after all?" Ren smirked, much to my surprise. Is he just kidding around or something?

"Trust us, Ren may be...incompetent." Mason said with a sigh. "But he's a very friendly boy once you get to know him."

"Yeah, and sometimes can be naive over some things." Kaede added, much to Ren's annoyance.

"Hey!" He yelled in annoyance. I blinked in surprise upon seeing them like this. This seriously isn't a joke, is it?

"Yeah, I know you're pretty confused about all this, but they get along very well." Twilight chuckled, standing next to me. "Trust me, I think you'll fit in quite well."

"Fit in..." I muttered aloud with a sigh. How long have I heard that word?

"Anyway, we should probably get going." Kaede said, reminding us of the main topic. "Come on! We need to go over on what our friends found!"

"Okay!" Everyone nodded. I just looked at them for a while before softly smiling at them. I guess...they're right. Maybe I can trust...for now.



Later
"Whoa...look at them." I was amazed to see so many different ponies. This kid named Ren noted that there were Earth Ponies, Unicorns, and Pegasus that live in this town called "Ponyville". What a weird name, and ironic too. Some ponies were looking at me with surprised looks, probably surprised of seeing me here. Though, like I said, some. Others just looked at me with amazement.

I guess with Ren, Mason, Kaede, and this Carrie girl here in this world...I guess they're quite famous or something here.

Soon, we exited out of town and saw a giant huge ship off a distance, and judging by seeing some vines growing over some of it, I say this place hasn't been in best shape. 

"Yep, this is the home-ship. I named it myself when I first got here." Ren chuckled with a smile. "It may not be much, but it's home for now."

"I-I see..." I replied with a curious expression. I don't know understand much about this structure. I wonder how long he's been here?

Soon, we arrived to the front entrance, and opened the door, revealing the same apartment complex I was in last night. 

"Ren! You're back!" Huh? AH! It's that talking dog from before! He immediately ran from the left side of the room and jumped on Ren, causing him to fall down and the little Husky began licking his face, causing him...to laugh? 

"Ah ha ha! Thanks bud! I told you I would come back!" Is he laughing? Why is he enjoying being licked by a dog? I never had a pet before in my life...

"So, how goes holding the fort for us, Kodi?" Kaede asked curiously.

"Been doing so awesome! The others are using that thing that appeared this morning in order to investigate the new floors in this place." The dog explained. Huh...Kodiak. It seems a suitable name since he is a Siberian Husky. They're very stubborn dogs but they are very cute. It seems pretty a bit big, but still a puppy? I guess he's almost turning one judging by his size.

"You mean the elevator?" Twilight chuckled before scratching his chin. 

"Yeah that!" He nodded before noticing me. "Oh hey! You're that guy who passed out when I spoke to you."

"Uh....yeah..." I said, feeling nervous standing in front of this dog. "I-I'm...Jamie Watson. It's nice to meet ya, uh...Kodiak. Sorry if I passed out like that last night." 

"Well it's nice to meet you Jamie!" Kodi barked as he wagged his little tail. I've read about dogs in books, but never experienced one in front of me.

"Yes...you too." I said before taking out my journal and started writing notes about this. A talking dog here in this world we know live in called Equestria...interesting.

"What are you doing?" Kodi asked me.

"Just taking notes. For research, that's all." I explained with a soft smile.

"He's like a combination of Twilight and Fluttershy together." Spike whispered to the little dog, who chuckled a bit. This made me frown at this. Are they...making fun of me?

"Hey guys!" I looked up and widened my eyes, seeing five more ponies walking out of the living room with smiles on their faces. I backed away a bit and hid behind Mason. I'm...not a fan of crowds except for my sisters, they at least understand me.

"So how's the new guy hanging?" The blue Pegasus asked Ren, who rubbed his head and nervously chuckled before saying "Well...he's just a little timid like Flutters, that's all. But anywho, he's doing alright."

He side-stepped out of the way, revealing myself in front of everyone, surprising me. No! I didn't any of these strange talking mythical ponies talking or even seeing me!

"Hello there." The yellow Pegasus greeted me, smiling softly. I flinched and was unable to come up with saying something. I'm just so nervous meeting them...

"You alright, partner?" The orange pony asked me in concern. "You look kinda pale?"

"Maybe he needs a good laugh?" A pink pony appeared right in front of me, causing me to shriek a bit.

"Huh? W-where did you come from?" I asked in surprise.

"That's easy, I just walked over towards you, silly." Pinkie giggled, much to my confusion.

"B-but...I didn't even see you coming!"

"It's Pinkie Pie, it's best not to ask about her logic." Mason said with a sigh. 

"Yeah, trust me." Twilight agreed with an annoyed look. "I tried to figure everything out, and believe me, the last thing I need to do is to get a headache."

"Hmm...I see." I nodded before looking at Pinkie Pie with a curious and determined expression. A being that no one can understand its logic...it might sound like a tough challenge, but I think maybe I could figure her out soon enough.

"So, anyway, I love about those clothes you are wearing! It makes you look like a working business pony." A white pony giggled, causing me to blush while I hid half of my face behind my journal.

"Y-yes...thank you ma'am." I thanked, much to the white pony's surprise.

"Ma'am? Oh my." She brightened up on that idea as she let out a smile and said "Why thank you for giving me such a name."

"It was just a compliment he gave out, Rarity." Kaede said, smiling nervously while sweat-dropping. 

"True Kaede darling, but that word is such a short word 'madam'. It has such a nice ring to it." The white pony known as Rarity said with a smile.

"Okay, drop it Rares. We don't need you wanting to make him call you names." The blue pegasus pushed her aside, rolling her eyes before turning to me. "Anyway, how about we introduce ourselves? Names Rainbow Dash! Fastest Pegasus in all of Equestria!"

"Names Applejack, owner of Sweet Apple Acres." The orange mare known as Applejack introduced herself with a smile. "It's an apple farm, and we sell the best apples here in Ponyville."

"I-I'm Fluttershy, an animal caretaker..." Fluttershy timidly smiled at me.

"I am known as Rarity, a fashionista and a lovely fashion designer. I can give you many tips of being fancy." Rarity winked at me.

"I'm Pinkamena Diane Pie! Or Pinkie Pie for short!" The pink pony known as Pinkie Pie introduced with a big grin as she continued "You must be a new human friend who's going to be living here in Ponyville, right? Right?!"

"Umm....yes?" I asked, raising a brow.

"Awesome! I promise to throw a super huge 'Welcome to Ponyville/Equestria' party for ya!" Pinkie cheered.

"N-no thank you...I'm not good in front of crowds..." I sighed sadly.

"Well not with that attitude!" Pinkie patted me on the back, hoping to cheer us up a little.

"Trust us, Pinkie's parties are over the top!" Ren assured with a grin. "I mean, you should at least try it out when the time comes."

"O-Okay..." I shrugged.

"So what you find?" Twilight asked curiously.

"You won't believe what we found! Follow us!" Rainbow led the way as we walked over to the side of the living room, revealing...

"An elevator?" I asked in confusion. "What's one doing next to the living room?"

"Don't know. It appeared when we woke up after we took you to Twilight's home last night after Nightmare Night." Ren answered with a shrug.

"We didn't have to explore it due to us being too tired since the festivities last night, so after we delivered you to Twilight last night, she requested everyone to join in and searched throughout the place." Mason added.

"Well, I'm quite curious about what new floors are in this place." Twilight wondered.

"Same here." Kaede nodded with a soft smile. "If I had to guess, maybe it's a new room for you, Jamie."

"M-me?" I asked in surprise. A room for me? What? Like a bedroom?

"Well, it's more than one room." Applejack said with a light chuckle.

"More than one room? That's awesome to hear!" Kodi barked happily.

"Same here! Wonder what they are." Spike agreed as he pressed a button it, opening the elevator. Soon after, we all entered it and once so, it closed. Ren pressed the button and the elevator started moving.

"Whoa, this thing is very jumpy." Kodi said with a surprised look.

"Well, it is an elevator. Makes sense since you never experienced it." Mason said with a serious expression.

"Trust me. Even I get jumpy by it, boy." Ren assured with a soft grin. I looked at him with an incredulous look. He's not serious, right? 

"Yeah, same here." Rainbow nodded in agreement. 

"It does gives me the creeps when we're in this thing." Fluttershy added.

Soon after, the elevator stopped as we all stepped out and found ourselves in a library. Wow, this place is so huge! It's filled with so many books, probably thousands! All of them waiting for me to read them all!

"Oh...my....Celestia!" Twilight yelled in excitement. "Look at all these books! They must be from the human world! I am so positive! I need to read them all!"

"Same here!" I exclaimed with an excited look on my face. "In fact, why not read them all right now?!

"And this is where I skipped searching through this room and headed to the next one. Didn't want to be an egghead like them." Rainbow sighed with an annoyed look.

"Rainbow, be nice." Fluttershy looked at her with a soft smile.

"Yeah, don't ruin it for them." Ren added.

Huh? I turned back at them with a worried look and asked "What? What did she call me?"

"So sorry for Rainbow's attitude." Rarity cleared her throat while glaring at Rainbow Dash. "It's just that...Rainbow Dash isn't a mere fan of reading and learning from books, darling."

"What?!" I exclaimed in shock. "W-why would you think that?!"

"Duh! It's because it's for eggheads!" Rainbow rolled her eyes.

"Excuse me, but I enjoy reading a novel or two when I have nothing to do or if I have day off from my guarding." Mason said with a hard glare.

"How dare you?!" I exclaimed in angry, causing her to flinch in fear, along with everyone else. "Books are the very core for humans to learn from! We read books to learn, study, and enjoy ourselves! I enjoy and learned from books for my entire life! You can't just simply call someone an 'egghead' just because you don't like books!"

Everyone just looked at me with shocked expressions, causing me to revert back to shy self. "W-was there something I say?"

"Whoa..." Applejack shook her head with a surprised look on her face. "I never seen someone that angry ever since Twilight was infuriated in understanding Pinkie Pie."

"Yeah, at least he didn't burst in flames and screamed out of anger." Pinkie added. "He's like the human gender version of Twilight!"

"Uhh...what?" Mason asked with a confused look.

"Whoa, you really are kinda addicted to books, huh?" Ren asked, blinking in surprise.

"O-of course, I love reading books very much. It's the only thing I got so far to keep me moving..." I sighed.

"Well, I understand that feeling." Twilight smiled softly towards me. "Trust me, back when I was a filly, I always love enjoying reading books but get angry whenever somepony mocks me nor makes fun of books."

"Though, I never seen someone who is very knowledgeable and cares for books." Kaede said in surprise.

"Yeah, same here." Kodi nodded in agreement.

"S-sorry..." I apologized with a sad look.

"Yeah, I should be apologizing..." Rainbow chuckled nervously while rubbing her head bashfully.

"O-okay...just please don't hate me..." I said, nearly covering my face with my journal. 

"Wow, he makes me feel braver when seeing him like this." Fluttershy whispered to Ren, who nodded in agreement. I just loved books very much, but then again, they do have a point about me getting too addictive to them. 

"Though, I suppose we mustn't judge a pony, or person's emotion toward certain things they love." Rarity chuckled.

"Right..." Kaede gave her a light chuckle while sweat-dropping before noticing something. "Huh? Oh hey, what's this?"

Kaede walked over to one of the shelves and picked one of them up. "Hey! This is 'How To Be A Detective 101' written by...Jamie Watson."

"Huh? Hey, I wrote that book." I walked over and received the book from Kaede, reading the front cover on it. "Wonder how it got here?"

"Well you are an author, right? So maybe this might be a copy of yours?" Mason suggested.

"But it can't be!" I said, examining the front cover before showing it to the others. "Because it has my signature on it!"

"Huh? Your signature?" Ren asked.

"What's the difference?" Pinkie asked. "It just has your signature, right? Maybe a fan got it from you."

"Yes, maybe whoever brought these books to this place must be a big fan of her work." Fluttershy suggested before hiding behind Ren and muttered "Or that's what I think, I guess..."

"No, I never been asked to give a fan my signature. I always write my own signatures in case I accidentally lost it and someone can try and return it to me." I explained with a nervous expression. 

"Really?" Twilight asked in surprise. "That's...quite strange."

"Yeah, how did whoever brought us here knew about your signature books?" Ren wondered.

"They must've taken info about us, that's the only thing I can think." Mason suggested.

"Okay, but why me? I'm just a nobody..." I sighed, confusing everypony.

"What do you mean, darling?" Rarity questioned. "You're a famous author who write novels, right? You gotta be famous and be quite talented, right?"

"True, but I'm still a nobody. Why would anyone bother to be with me?" I sighed sadly.

"Jamie..." Twilight sighed, looking at me with a sad look. "Did...you ever had a terrible childhood or something?"

I went silent, not eager of ever talking about it. It just...brings me bad memories.

"If you don't wanna talk about it, we all understand." Kaede assured with a soft grin.

"Not me. Just spit it out already and stop being a coward." Rainbow rolled her eyes, causing everyone to glare at her.

"Rainbow Dash..." Mason darkened his face and glared at her, his blue eyes somehow glowing and snarling at Rainbow Dash, who flinched at him. "Shut...up."

"R-right..." Rainbow chuckled nervously before hiding behind him.

"Trust me Mason, I'll handle it with my Hacking Gun like last night." Ren sighed, holding some Megaphone in his hands, much to my confusion. Wait, I know that thing.

"Hey...where did you get that?" I asked in confusion, while everyone looked at me.

"What do ya mean? I got it when I first got to Equestria the moment I woken up from the pod in the secret white room. It was in a sturdy briefcase underneath my bed.

"No, that's the Megaphone Hacking Gun. My family developed that." I explained, shocking everyone.

"W-what?!" Ren exclaimed in shock.

"So ya mean to tell us that that megaphone was what your family developed?!" Applejack asked.

"Yes, my father was working on the next tech weapons that the government could potentially use. Apparently, what you have there is the prototype of the project." I said, walking over and inspecting the Hacking Gun. "Tell me, you said that you had since waken up here? Exactly, how long?"

"Umm...almost a year?" Ren answered, blinking in surprise. Wait, almost a year?! D-does that mean that I...no, Jamie! Focus on the important topic on hand!

"I-I see...if you said that you would blast Miss Rainbow Dash with that thing, then it must mean it works. I guess my father's invention real has worked." I concluded, gazing over it.

"So wait, your family was the one who invented the Hacking Gun?" Twilight asked, which I nodded.

"Y-yeah...we are a wealthy family. Me, my father, my 23 sisters, and my deceased mother..." Everypony gave me sad looks upon that last mentioning I said.

"I am so sorry for your lost." Mason apologized with a stern yet sad look.

"I-it's okay...it just doesn't bother that much..." I sadly smiled, remembering my mother's smile. She and my sisters were the only ones that cared for me, besides my selfish father...

"Wait, did you just say you had 23 sisters?!" Rarity gasped, which I nodded. "Oh my! That's crazy!"

"Yeah! I mean, I have three sisters and that's so crazy!" Pinkie gasped.

"Well, some are older than me and some are younger. You may say that I'm the middlemost of them all." I said with a nervous smile.

"W-we see..." Twilight chuckled nervously before clearing her throat. "Anyway, let's think about these things later and explore more."

"Hey everypony!" Huh? We looked up to see the young dragon, Spike, up on the top area of this floor. "I found a bedroom! I think it belongs to Jamie!"

"Huh? Already?" Mason asked in surprise. We all walked over to the spiral steps that were near to the bookshelves and walked over to the top of the bookshelves, which a little fence was made up on top of it to insure of our safety. We walked over to the door that Spike was residing as we entered and saw a very nice wooden bedroom with a king size bed and some bookshelves at the right corner. An HD Plasma TV with 1040 K Edition, and a window showing the outside of Ponyville and the grassy area that the ship is residing. There was even a desk that allows someone to do their work on or something like that. The room looks like a wealthy kid, such as myself, lived here. 

"Yeah, even I was amazed when I found it." Spike chuckled.

"So this is my room...I see...I must say, the designs of this place is very amazing..." I said with a soft smile. "I even have my own collections of books that I can use for my night readings."

"So you read in the night?" Twilight smiled brightly at that. "I do that too! I do that in order to keep up with my studies!"

"Really? That's amazing!" I said, smiling towards her. Oh my! I never encountered anyone who in loves with books as I do! It's so...amazing! 

"Yeah yeah, we get it. Move on!" Rainbow exclaimed with annoyance, causing us to give her deadpan expressions.

"Anyway..." Rarity cleared her throat and looked at this room with pure interest. "This room is so amazing! I love it so much! From the moment we found it earlier, I was jealous of who would own this room! Though, it is yours to keep, Jamie darling."

"Y-yeah..." I smiled nervously, but felt appreciated that someone loves its designs of this room.

"Yeah! And this bed is so jumpy!" Pinkie exclaimed, jumping on my bed before jumping very high into the ceiling, bumping her head real hard.

"Oh no! Are you okay?!" Kaede asked in shocked as we ran over to her side and check up if she had any damaged. With a hit like that, she might've gotten a concussion or...

"No worries! I'm fine!" I jaw-dropped to see her standing up on all fours with no damage what so ever! W-what?...How?!

"If you're so shocked about that, don't worry. Pinkie is somewhat a special pony that defies all logic." Ren assured with a pat on my back. Okay, seriously need to do research about her soon!

"Anyway, these are all the rooms we were able to find." Applejack explained.

"Yeah, there wasn't any doors leading anywhere to the ship." Rainbow shrugged with a bored expression.

"There wasn't no new floor that the elevator could've taken us." Fluttershy added with a sad look. "This was the only floor it just took us when we were searching out this place while you guys were taking care of Jamie."

"It's okay Flutters, we understand." Ren assured with a kiss on the cheek, causing her to blush and me to be surprised. Did...he give her a kiss on the cheek? A pony?!

"So what now?" Kodi asked before letting out a yawn.

"Well, the day is almost over..." Mason said, looking over to the fancy clock hanged up on top of the door.

"Almost over?!" I exclaimed. "Was I really out that much?!"

"Well yeah. We stood by your side for the rest of the evening, so we couldn't explore this new floor." Ren explained. "So Twilight asked her friends a favor to look it over for us."

"Yes, but I left shortly to take Carrie to her friends. They said something that they were gonna try and get their Cutie-Marks by doing bowling." Mason explained. "I just hope that they won't get into anymore trouble..."

"Don't worry Mason, they're just kids." Kaede assured with a chuckle.

"Then again, this is my sister, Rarity's, and Scootaloo we are talking about." Applejack said with furrow brows. "I'm gonna go check on her."

"Yes, same here." Rarity nodded.

"Me too. It is supper time for her." Mason went ahead with them while we remained in here.

"So...what now?" Kodi wondered.

"Umm...well I should head back before Angel tries to get upset that he hasn't gotten anything to eat for a while...again." Fluttershy said before flying out of the place.

"Alright, see ya tomorrow Flutters." Ren waved goodbye to her. "I'm just going to play some Sonic Mania downstairs in the living room. Come on Kodi."

"Okay!" Kodi nodded before he and Ren exited out of the room. Sonic Mania? You mean that best selling video game everyone's been talking about? Well, I haven't played any of his games before since my dad forbid me to ever play video games before in my entire life. I don't mind that, all I do is just write and read books and do research, that's all.

"Well, guess me, Rainbow Dash, Spike and Pinkie Pie are going to take our leave..." Twilight looked at me with a soft smile. "What are you going to do?"

"Umm...I guess I'll stay here and look over this library and my 'bedroom'." I said, taking one last look of this room. "I...guess I'll see you tomorrow, I guess...if you guys don't wanna see me that is."

Twilight chuckled a bit before saying "Don't worry, I won't mind. After all, if you want, you can always read books from the Golden Oaks Library. That way, you can catch up on learning about Equestria."

"Really?" I asked in surprise before perking up on that idea with a bright smile. "Thank you so much Miss Twilight!"

"Please, call me Twilight." Twilight asked, which I nodded. "It's so nice to meet one human who loves to read books. You're pretty lucky Jamie. I can't wait to get to know you more."

"Yeah, me too." I nodded with a smile. We continued to look at each other with smiles on our faces. What is this feeling I'm experiencing? Never mind that, but I'm just so happy to find an interesting creature who appreciates literature such as myself. 

"Oh for the love of pete! Kiss already!" We turned to Rainbow Dash, who gave us an annoyed look while crossing her hooves.

"Ooh! You two were looking at each other like you were a couple! I know what kind of party I'm planning!" Pinkie chuckled before winking towards...somewhere? "And I know the author is going to ship them together at some point because I sense a shipping!"

With that, she ran off, leaving a poof version of herself behind it disappeared.

"Riiiight...bye!" Rainbow ran off as well, leaving me and Twilight alone.

"Uhh...who is she talking to?" I asked, wondering who Pinkie was talking to before.

"...It's best not to ask." Twilight shook her head before turning back to me. "Well, bye. Come on Spike! We got a letter to the princess to send."

"Right behind Twilight!" Spike nodded before running with her. Before he left, he turned back to me and said "You know, Pinkie might have a point. I think you and Twilight would be great together."

"H-huh?" I asked, blushing a bit. "O-of course not! I-I have no idea what you're talking about!"

"Riiiight..." Spike smirked at me before winking and say "Don't worry, your secret is safe with me. Bye!"

Spike took his leave while I let out a heavy sigh. Me? Falling in love with a Unicorn? We've just met and some of these ponies are expecting me to fall in love with her? What is up with them? Oh well, at least I learned a bit about them. I guess I can trust them...for now. If they pull any dirty tricks or make me drop my guard down, then I'm gonna do it. I'm gonna kill myself...I have no reason to live after all. I was always treated as the outcast back where I'm from. Nobody bothers to talk to me, despite me being the son of a rich guy. Anyone that tries to talk to me always uses me to get things that I had and they don't. It's the life between the rich and the poor after all....They take advantage of them every time. 

But...they seemed like nice people and ponies. But...can I really trust them?

"Oh well...I guess I'll find out later. Right now, I need to do some studying." I said, turning to the desk and sitting down and grabbing several books from the cover and began researching. Alright, I'm gonna read over my notes and learned what I took about this place. Hopefully, I get a good nights sleep tonight.



The Next Day
....
....
...

"Hey! Jamie!" H-huh? I slowly woke up and saw myself in the dorm room of the weird space-ship. What happened to me? "You okay dude?" I slowly turned around to see Ren and his pet talking dog alongside him. 

"R-Ren? Kodiak? What happened?" I asked in confusion. "H-how did I get here?"

"You don't remember? Apparently, Twilight said that you would be busy investigating here, and we haven't seen you since then." Ren explained.

"Yeah, you didn't show up for dinner nor breakfast today." Kodi added, much to my surprise.

"W-what?! Oh no..." I slumped my head down on the desk, disappointed that I would fall asleep like that again. How could I?

"Don't worry, it's still morning. Besides, Mason is making pancakes, maybe you would enjoy that." Ren assured with a cheery grin, much to my confusion.

"Pancakes?" I asked. I read about them, but never tasted them. 

"You never heard of them before? They taste delicious!" Kodi licked his lips and drooled over the thought of them.

"O-Okay...." I shrugged before I got up and grabbed my journal, before leaving my room and headed towards the lower floor, or the living room/Ren's room.

Soon after we took the elevator, I was regrouped with the two other people I met yesterday in the some with a table filled with food. It must be the dining hall, but there was a little girl there with them. I presume that this young lady must be Carrie, Mason's little sister.

"Oh, hi there! You must be Jamie!" The girl greeted me, much to my surprise.

"O-oh...hi there." I waved at her slowly. "Y-you must be Carrie, correct?"

"Yeah! You must be my big brother's new friend! It's nice to meet ya!" Carrie chuckled with a smile.

"Oh...thank you, ma'am." I nodded with a soft smile.

Carrie chuckled a bit as Mason set down a plate of pancakes down on my seat and said "It's very nice to see you awake, but we were wondering why you haven't shown for dinner last night."

"Yeah, we were wondering if you were still investigating more." Kaede added, taking a bite of her pancake.

"Oh no, I was looking over my notes." I explained, grabbing my fork and knife and cutting a little bit of the pancake. "I just wanted to study up what I learned today."

"Really? Studying?" Carrie asked in pure interest. "You must be as smart as Twilight."

"I guess you can say..." I shrugged, before taking a bite of the pancake, and became amazed by how tasty it was. "Oh my! This is so delicious! Thank you very much Mason."

"Anytime." Mason smiled and nodded. "You may enjoy some as much as you like."

"T-thank you." I nodded back before turning to Ren. "So what were you guys doing yesterday while I was in my new dorm room?"

"Oh, we went out to pick up Carrie and the Crusaders. Apparently, they were trying to cheer up Apple Bloom after they failed to get another Cutie-Mark." Ren explained.

"A Cutie-Mark?" I asked curiously.

"It's those marks you see on a pony's flank." Kaede said. "Basically, it showed what sort of talent they earned."

"So these Cutie-Marks show off their talents. Interesting..." I said, taking out my journal and opening it before writing it over.

"Wow, you must really love learning new things, huh?" Kodi said, tilting his head in confusion.

"Yes, like I said before, I love taking notes to learn new things in hopes I may research it and teach it to others." I reminded them with a soft smile. Still a little surprised by the talking husky, but I'll manage to drop it.

"Well anyway..." Ren continued off on his story. "Apparently, Apple Bloom went to the Everfree Forest, which is a very dangerous forest, and went over to meet with a potion maker, Zecora, and stayed with her after she accidentally chipped a tooth. Carrie, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo told us what happened the moment Apple Bloom came out of the forest."

"I see..." I said, taking these notes. The Everfree Forest...Zecora...Potion Maker....Hmm, I'm going to need to ask them more later about these stuff. I need to at least catch up on all these events.

"Yes, but right now, we should head to the Ponyville School, it's almost time for school to start." Mason said, looking over at the clock, seeing how it's almost 8:00 A.M. "Now Carrie, you wouldn't want to be late for your first day of school, right?"

"Of course not! I'm always eager to get to school!" Carrie nodded with a big grin on her face.

"Ahh, I'm going to miss her..." Kodi pouted. Ren patted him on the head and said "Don't worry, she'll be back. Right now, we should finish up our breakfast."

"Yeah, you're right about that..." I sighed before taking another bite of these pancakes. These guys are very generous for making these pancakes, and they taste very good. My father always let us eat other types of fancy breakfast, stating low-class food such as this are for the poor. But...I was always curious on how they taste, and I gotta say, who knew they taste very good.



Later
Hmm...You know, I always wonder what ponies here learn here. I mean, do they follow the same educational requirements as human like go through preschool through college? I mean, I was always taught of that. I'm already in high school, and it's half of my Junior Year. I just hope being here doesn't affect my studies because my father would kill me if that happened.

"Hey Jamie, something in your mind?" Huh? Oh, I guess I was overthinking things again. I turned to Kaede and nervously replied "Y-yeah, just thinking about some stuff."

"Well you should pay more attention, Jamie." Mason said with a serious look on his face. "You walked past and bumped into some ponies."

"Huh?" I blinked in confusion before looking back at the said ponies, seeing them giving me a fury look for bumping into them. "Oh! I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to!"

"Jamie, calm down. They'll let it go." Ren assured. "I mean, ponies are very kind creatures."

"A-Are you sure? They won't hate you for the rest of your life or something?" I asked curiously, causing him to sweat-dropped and replied "Uhh...no?"

"Okay..." I sighed and nodded. Well, that's a relief.

"What's up with him, big brother?" Carrie whispered to him.

"Don't know. For the heir of the Watson's family fortune, he acts so superstitious and nervous towards others." Mason replied. I sighed as we continued our way towards the school. I always been this way. Everyone always takes advantage of me these days just because I'm so useless and undependable...

"Hey! There it is!" Carrie pointed, as I looked up and saw the elementary school myself. Hmm, never seen an elementary school like this before. It almost looks like a barn. I always had tutors back at home. They were always strict and taught me the basics of being fancy and such. I never had the courage to talk back to them nor my father because...I'm scared...

"Hi Carrie!" We all turned to see two small fillies, one was a Unicorn, and the other was a Pegasus. 

"Hey Sweetie Belle! Hey Scootaloo!" Carrie greeted them.

"Hey girls, how its hanging?" Ren chuckled at them.

"We're doing alright!" Scootaloo assured. "We heard the news yesterday! There's a new human here in Ponyville, right?"

"And is it that guy?" Sweetie Belle pointed at me, causing me to flinch.

"Yeah...he's just a little shy." Ren sweat-dropped a little.

"True, but he's very nice. This is Jamie Watson." Kaede introduced me to the small fillies.

"U-umm...hello there girls." I softly smiled at them as they curiously stared at me.

"You know, this guy looks like he hasn't slept in for a while." Scootaloo told her friend, who nodded in agreement.

"Girls, please be nice." Mason said sternly, which made the small fillies smile sheepishly.

"We're sorry mister." Sweetie Belle apologized as I said "No no, it's quite okay. It's true, I should really get some more sleep. I have been up a lot back then..."

"We see. You know, you should speak up more." Scootaloo suggested with a smirk on her face. "You know, you could try to  act more cooler like Rainbow Dash!"

"Oh...okay..." I nodded. Try to speak up more? Well, she does have a point there.

"And is there anyone else who you think is cooler?" Ren smirked at the little filly as she bluntly replied "Nope!"

Ren made a deadpan expression and slumped his head down before muttering "Okay..."

"Anyway! You're just in time for school Carrie! Come on!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed as she and Scootaloo headed through the small gates of the school. 

"Well, this is it! See ya everyone!" Carrie said, looking at us with a soft smile as she held the small pink backpack in her back before her brother bent down and gave her a small kiss on the cheek.

"You too sis. I'll pick ya up in the afternoon!" Mason said with a soft smile.

"Okay!" Carrie nodded before heading over to the school. Mason sighed and shook his head in amusement before smiling. You know, I can understand the feeling he has. I care for my many 23 sisters back home and they care for me. They're also the only strength I have left that keeps me going.

"Are you guys sure she'll be alright?" Kodi asked in worried.

"Don't worry boy, she'll be fine." Ren assured with a grin.

"Yeah, she's got the Cutie Mark Crusaders by her side." Kaede added with a chuckle.

"Cutie Mark Crusaders? Do you mean those two small fillies we just met?" I asked curiously.

"Well yeah, but there's one more you haven't seen. Her names Apple Bloom, and she's Applejack's younger sister." Kaede explained. "And also, the names means that they're a group of fillies trying to find their Cutie-Marks."

"Yeah, apparently the young ones aren't born with Cutie-Marks themselves until they find out their true purpose." Mason added, crossing his arms. True purpose, huh? 

"I see..." I said, taking some notes of that in my journal. Hmm, I'm going to do another night research of this later.

"Apple Bloom! You've got your Cutie-Mark!" Huh? Who said that? We all looked over to the courtyard to see a crowd of fillies circling around a yellow pony with a red mane and tail and has a pink bow on her head as she was twirling...a hoop?

"Apple Bloom?!" Ren, Kaede, Mason, and Kodi gasped while I stared at that filly for a while. So that's Apple Bloom? And she already has a Cutie-Mark? I thought they said that they were searching for talents? So does that mean that she found hers already?

"Whoa...I never expected her to get one already?!" Kaede exclaimed in shock.

"Yeah, wonder how she gotten it so quickly?" Ren wondered.

"Maybe she discovered it yesterday after we picked her up?" Kodi suggested, but Mason had his doubts.

"That can't be so." Mason shook his head and narrowed his eyes towards Apple Bloom. "She had no Cutie-Mark yesterday and it seems too early for some filly of her age to get one so soon."

"Oh come on Mason, it was probably luck or somewhat on how she earned her Cutie Mark." Ren shrugged with a soft grin.

"Luck?" I muttered aloud. No, I don't think so. I don't believe in luck, I believe in facts and logic, not entirely on luck.

Soon, we began witnessing her doing many tricks with the hoo la hoop like twirling it around her neck before throwing it over to a nearby flagpole and sending it flying straight back up and once it came down, Apple Bloom leapt up and went through it with an aerial somersault and stuck a perfect landing with the hoop hanging from her neck, causing everypony to cheer.

I became amazed as my eyes sparkled on that while the others just jaw-dropped upon seeing that.

"...Since when could she do that?!" Kaede exclaimed.

"I have no idea..." Ren shook his head.

"Okay, now I'm growing suspicious of this." Mason face-palmed himself of this before noticing his sister among the crowd. "And I guess my own sister is taking liking to this."

"Well technically, I would totally go over there and be amazed by that trick too." Kodi pointed out, which Ren nodded and said "Well, same here too."

"Apple Bloom!" We all turned to see a purple pony walking over to the fillies with a stern look.

"Who's that?" I asked curiously.

"Oh, that's Ms. Cheerilee, the teacher here in the Ponyville Elementary School." Ren explained. "She's a very nice pony, but don't try to make her upset."

"Right..." I nodded slowly with a raised brow. A teacher...got it.

"Yes, Ms. Cheerilee?" Apple Bloom asked innocently.

"I want you to stop doing your loop-de-hoop in the yard." Loop-de-hoop? Doesn't she mean a hoo la hoop? I guess ponies here call similar objects like that with different names. "And start giving us lessons in your amazing loop-de-hooping!"

"What?" Mason asked in surprise. "She's not serious, right?"

"Nope, not all." Kaede shook her head with a deadpan expression. We began to see everypony began practicing their hoo la hoops while Apple Bloom began showing them on how she was doing it. I gotta say, I'm impress by her skills. Wonder how she does that?

"Hey everyone, look!" We looked to see Carrie swirling her hoo la hoop with a big grin on her face. "I'm doing it! I'm doing...WHOA!"

She accidentally tripped and set the hoo la hoop off, sending it flying too hard and caused some ponies to duck as it hit and embarked itself into a nearby tree. This caused everyone to glare at her while she chuckled sheepishly, feeling embarrassed.

"Oh well, first impressions aren't perfect in their own way." Ren said, patting Mason on the back, who was shaking his head with a sigh.

"Yeah, I guess you're right..." Mason sighed.

"No worries there, Carrie!" Apple Bloom comforted her with a pat on the back while she was twirling that thing. Seriously, how is she doing this? "You all just need a little more practice, you'll be able to do all kinds of tricks!"

She then began showing different type of tricks to others while we watched and became amazed of how she was doing so well with them.

"Man, now I'm jealous. I wished I could do that..." Kodi sighed as Ren bent down and scratched behind him by the ear and said "Don't worry boy, you'll be talented someday. I just know it."

"Yeah, you're right!" Kodi barked happily, causing Ren to smile.

"Another Cutie-Mark?!" Huh? What? We looked back to see something underneath Apple Bloom's flank. 

"Two?!" Kaede covered her mouth in shock.

"W-what?!" Mason gasped before turning to Ren. "Ren, is this possible?! Can a pony gained two Cutie-Marks?!"

"I-I don't know! This is new to me!" Ren exclaimed.

"Well..." I spoke up, gaining their attention without me knowing. "The ponies here are very similar to humans like they have more than just one thing they could be good at. So it's a possibility that a pony can gain more than one of these Cutie-Marks..."

"Really?" Kodi asked curiously, causing me to flinch.

"O-oh! Did I say that aloud?" I asked in surprise.

"Yeah, you kinda did..." Kaede chuckled nervously, while I blushed in embarrassment. I never expected them to hear me. Why would I say that aloud?

Soon, we began to hear some cheering as we turned to see everypony leaving the school yard, following Apple Bloom as she began spinning plates. 

"Huh...spinning plates..." Ren rubbed his chin a bit. "Gotta say, with the hoo la hooping and the spinning plates makes her feel like she's a clown from a circus."

"I was thinking the same thing too." Kaede agreed.

"We...should probably follow them." Mason suggested, which we nodded as we began tailing the crowd as they headed into town. As soon as we arrived, we saw Apple Bloom leading her class and her friends and Carrie around the place, gaining everyone's attention as they looked at her in amazement and awe.

She began spinning more plates while rolling along with her hoo la hoop. She even began spinning plates off the ground while switching her hoop from one hoof to another, through the hoop skyward towards a nearby cloud, which Rainbow Dash was at as she was taking her nap. Huh, you know, I once read back then that a Pegasus has the power to control weather, so it looks it's true. She's sitting on a cloud, which is quite an amazing sight.

I saw both Twilight and Rarity walking towards the scene as Apple Bloom came over and hoo la hoop around her mane, causing it to turn into the same hair style like Rarity. Huh, what a coincidence?

Apple Bloom bounced over Pinkie, who smiled in joy upon seeing them. Soon, I saw Applejack, with other ponies beside her. I guess that's her family, I presume. Applejack let out a whistle and kicked a picnic table, sending an apple pie and some plates skyward. Apple Bloom quickly noticed this as she easily caught the plates in stacks and used her hoo la hoop to inexplicably slice the pie into perfect slices and have them land on the plates she set up in quick sucession, much to everyone's joy as they grabbed the slice of apple pie and took a bite of it.

"Wow! That was awesome!" Ren exclaimed in joy.

"Yeah! I never knew she could do that! Even with two Cutie-Marks!" Kodi agreed, wagging his tail in joy.

"Hm...you know, for Carrie's first day of school, I say she made a great friend." Mason smiled towards Apple Bloom, who was being cheered on by the crowd. I sorta felt envy towards her, seeing how much attention she's getting. Oh, just stop it. I...I just wanted to forget about it.

"Hey guys!" Twilight, Spike, and Rarity came over with bright smiles on their faces. "Can you believe what we just saw?! Two Cutie-Marks on Apple Bloom's flank! Isn't that crazy?!"

"Yeah, i-it sure is..." I nodded in agreement with a curious expression. "It's quite weird. Her gaining two Cutie-Marks in one day..."

"At least I'm not the only one who thinks its weird." Mason sighed. "Twilight, you're an expert. Do you know why did Apple Bloom has two Cutie-Marks on her flank?"

"That I don't know." Twilight shook her head.

"Yeah, nopony in history has ever seen a pony with two Cutie-Marks!" Spike added.

"Though, I'm quite delighted to see dear Apple Bloom finally gaining her Cutie-Mark at last." Rarity shrugged. "I say that she must've gotten Applejack and her family quite happy for it."

"You think so?" I asked, which Rarity nodded.

"Of course! I mean, her family are very honest apples!" Rarity winked with a smile. "Besides, its right for every family for support their child to the very end. That shows how much the parents care for them."

"Really?" I muttered with a sad sigh. Parents showing support to their children? How ironic...

"Hm? Something wrong Mason?" Kaede asked in concern, causing me to flinch as I exclaimed "N-no! I'm fine. Anyway, I should study on this, but I don't have any books about these Cutie-Marks."

"Well if ya want, you can always come to the library and check them out. We can study together!" Twilight beamed at that idea before gasping "We could be study buddies!"

"Alright, I see why not Twilight." I smiled softly while the others rolled their eyes.

"Yep, I'm totally seeing it now." Spike whispered to Kodi, who nodded in agreement.

"Are they?" Ren muttered towards Kaede, who also nodded. Wait, please don't tell me that they infuriating that me and Twilight are...no, just drop it. It's just too weird to think about it.

"Well come on! We got to research this! To the library!" Her horn began glowing as I was carried up in some strange aura, much to my surprise.

"W-what the?! How is this happening?!" I exclaimed in shock as Ren laughed and said "That's because of the magic, Jamie!"

"Magic?! But there's no such as magic!" I retorted.

"Then again, you are in a world filled with talking ponies and such." Spike said with a smirk and raised brow. Alright, you raise a good point. Unfortunately, I was carried off by Twilight with Spike following after us.

"We'll see ya later, Jamie." Kaede waved goodbye to me. "Bye."

"Umm...bye?" I waved goodbye to her as I was carried off towards the Golden Oaks Library that I awoken from. I never got the chance to read any books from the place, but it might give me a good chance to study up on this new world I'm in. Though, there's one thing I'm quite not wanting to believe in all of this....MAGIC IS REAL?!



Later
Soon after, me and Twilight were looking over the books in hopes of learning about these Cutie Marks appearing on Apple Bloom today. It was such a small library, but I don't mind. I love reading books these days, no matter how much time I waste. Unless of course if I have a deadline of a book I'm writing.

Anyway, I was busy reading a book about the history of Equestria, already at the end of the book. Twilight came over to my side with a tired look on his face.

"Find anything?" Twilight asked, letting out a yawn.

"Nope, nothing at all." I shook my head with a sigh before taking a look at the window. "Oh man, it's already night time? Have we been here all night?"

"Seems so, sorry if I wasted your time. Maybe I shouldn't have brought you here if this might happen..." Twilight said, feeling bad for me.

"Oh no, it's okay. I don't mind...After all, I don't mind if my time was being wasted." I assured with a nervous chuckle. Soon after, both Spike and a owl came in as Spike settled down a sandwich...made out of hay.

"There ya go Twilight, two hay sandwiches. Made by yours truly and your junior assistant, Owlicious." Spike grinned as the Owl landed on his head with a curious expression.

"Owlicious? That's the name of the owl?" I asked, blinking in surprise. Never expected that it would be a name for such a unique creature such as this.

"Yep! It's a cute name, is it?" Twilight giggled.

"Y-yeah..." I nodded with a sigh. Twilight looked at me with concern and asked "Hey, why are you always acting like that?"

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"She means why do you keep acting like you don't have zero confidence in yourself?" Spike clarified, causing Twilight to glare at him while Owlicious tilted his head in confusion and let out a 'Hoo'. "What? I was just trying to make him understand what you meant."

"Oh..." I muttered, feeling terrible of having to answer that as I closed the book and looked down on it with a sad look. Should I tell them? What if they used it to advantage of me? What if they don't care about me at all and it was all a trick? What if...

"Jamie...you don't have to tell us if you want, we'll understand." Twilight assured, patting me on the back. "I think the problem you're having is because you never experienced friendship, right?"

"H-huh?" I looked at her with a surprised look.

"Trust me, I understand how that feels..." Twilight looked down with a sad smile. "Back then, when I was a filly, I always wanted to become the greatest Unicorn mage ever to the history of Equestria like Princess Celestia. I always looked up to her back during the Summer Sun Celebration back home. I studied real hard when I went into her school and learned everything. I was even her protege." Protege?! I guess this princess must've saw something in her in order to make her into a protege.

"But even through being her protege, I would mostly ignored everypony about them asking me if they wanted to hang out or if I wanted to decline anything they wanted me to do with them. I was always focusing on my studies, not realizing or even caring about friendship. I kept believing that I could done these things myself until I met Ren and the others. They made me realize that friendship is real important to life and that whenever I need them, they'll always come to my side and I would've done the same as well."

Wow...I'm so surprised to hear all that. So Ren and the others made her realize that friendship was a very important thing. Is that even true? Is Friendship really that important?

"Wow...I see." I smiled towards her and continued "I never knew that. I'm so sorry to hear that."

"Thanks, I know you would understand." Twilight chuckled. "It's so nice to tell you this story, Jamie. I hope you remember for your own, Jamie. I just thought that...maybe you should know that because I thought you acted like me back then. Only except the zero confidence..." 

"Yeah..." I blushed a bit and said "I understand. Thank you for telling me this."

She's...not lying to me. I could tell that she could really mean it. So...there is someone who understands me. I...I never realize that.

"Twilight!" Huh? We turned around to see Applejack coming in with Apple Bloom, who was tapping around on Applejack's back. Huh? What's going on with her?

"Applejack, what's wrong?" Twilight asked.

"And why is Apple Bloom tap dancing around your back?" I added, noticing that.

"I don't know! I started to hear some tapping in my sister's room and found her like this!" Applejack explained. "Just take a look over at her flank!"

She showed us her flank, seeing three Cutie-Marks.

"What?!" Me and Twilight exclaimed in unison. H-how is this possible?! Mason is right, something is definitely going on with Apple Bloom.

"Three Cutie-Marks, three talents! I've never seen anything like it!" Twilight exclaimed in shock.

"Well can't you both find something in this library to know about what's wrong with my sis?!" Applejack demanded.

"We can try, but I barely know anything about this problem." I said, waving my hands in surrender.

"I think I heard about this." Twilight rubbed her chin as she walked over to a nearby shelf and started looking over a couple of books. "I once came across a book about unusual equine illnesses. What was it again?"

"Perplexing Pony Plagues, perhaps?" We looked up to see both Spike and Owlicious on top of the ladder, as the former holding a heavy book. He hopped onto Twilight's back while Owlicious landed on top of my head, much to my surprise. Whoa, heh heh...nice owl?

"Thanks Spike! You're a life saver!" Twilight smiled brightly at him.

"Well, I might not be a pony but I do have some talents." Spike grinned as Twilight took the book by levitating it with her magic, which by the way was still confusing and shocking me upon seeing that, but now's not the time. Anyway, she settled the book onto a nearby podium as she turned a few pages in search of Apple Bloom's condition.

"Hay Fever...Feather Flu...The Trots..." Hmm, why do I have the feeling those diseases are quite similar to the ones back from my world? "AH!...Cutie Pox!"

"Cutie Pox?!" We all gasped as Twilight read through it and said "Cutie Pox, this puzzling pony plague afflicted a population of ponies back in the paleopony period."

"Heh, say that ten times fast!" Spike laughed, causing Twilight to glare at him and shook him off her back. She then went back to the book and continued reading. "Random Cutie-Marks appeared all over the ponies' bodies, causing them to perform all the talents that came with them!"

"Just like me!" Apple Bloom exclaimed, realizing that as she gazes towards her three Cutie-Marks.

"Hearing this makes me think about the Black Death..." I muttered, gaining their attention as I continued "Back then in the mid 13th Century, many Europeans died from it thanks to the disease being carried on by many fleas, which were hidden in many sewer rats, and almost the entire population of Earth died from it, with the symptoms mostly having their tongues turning black."

"What?! Did that really happened?!" Spike exclaimed, causing me and Owlicious to be surprised. I wasn't expecting them to overhear me.

"Uhh...yeah?" I nodded.

"Well it's a good thing that never happened back there in the paleopony period." Twilight sighed.

"So wait? Did you mean that this happened back in your world involving millions of them humans dying from this Black Death?!" Applejack asked in shock, which I nodded as she said "So if this plague similar to the Cutie Pox, then what were the cures?!"

"Well, the cures for the Black Death were sitting in the sewers, fumigating your house with herbs, sitting in a room between two enormous fires-" 

"Yeah! How about something that isn't involving any of that!" Applejack exclaimed, cutting me off. What? I was just saying...."So what's the cure, Twilight?!"

Twilight looked over the pages, but widened her eyes as she said "It says here there's no known cure!"

"No known cure?!" We all exclaimed. What? But that doesn't make sense! 

"Here, may I see that?" I asked before grabbing the book and turning some pages until I found the info for it. "Alright, it says here that the cause of the outbreak was never discovered, and the Cutie Pox disappeared as mysteriously as they arrived?!"

But if both the Black Plague and the Cutie Pox are so much similar, why isn't a cure describe in it?! I guess our worlds aren't that much similar to each other.

"Oh no!" Apple Bloom yelled before a flash of light appeared on her flank, revealing another Cutie-Mark. Huh, wonder what's that? "Sacrebleu! Plus de marques de Cutie!"

Wait, what the heck?! There's a Cutie-Mark for speaking french?! That hardly makes sense! Why would there be a pony who gets a cutie-mark for speaking french when there could be a pony born to speak that kind of language due to nationality?! Where's the logic in that?!

"My sister's speaking in fancy!" Applejack exclaimed in horror.

"Technically, it's French." I smiled nervously while corrected her, but I flinched from her glare as she exclaimed "Who cares?! Do something you two!"

"Well, we can't wait for this to go away!" Twilight retorted.

"We gotta find somepony who can mix up a cure!" Applejack stated.

"Tout de suite!" Apple Bloom added, still speaking in french.

"Not some pony..." Twilight said with a smile on her face. "Some zebra!"

Zebra? Wait...there's talking zebras in this world too? Alright, I give up. This world defies all logic.

"Zecora!" Applejack exclaimed, realizing that.

"Wait, I remember Ren mentioning that name earlier." I said, rubbing my chin in thought. "He said that she was some potion maker, right? But also a talking zebra?"

"Yeah, but she's very nice and very helpful." Twilight assured with a grin. "Now come on! We got a zebra to find!"

"Wait!" I called, causing everypony to loo at me. "You girls go on ahead! I'll look over the book about the Cutie Pox! I know there's a cure in there!"

"But you heard Twilight! There's no known cure!" Applejack reminded me with a hard glare.

I stood in my ground and glared back at her before saying "I know what I'm saying! But I can't give up! You girls go and see Zecora! I'll try my best to find a cure! Please, let me do this."

Twilight, Spike, Apple Bloom, and Applejack looked at each other before they looked back as Twilight said "Alright Jamie, we'll believe you. I'll let Owlicious stay behind and help you out."

"Thank you Twilight." I smiled happily to hear as they took their leave as I immediately grabbed the book about unusual perplexing illnesses and began searching throughout of them. I gotta hurry in order to save Apple Bloom from that Cutie Pox! I know there might be something that can be used as a cure, but what?

"Hoo!" Huh? I looked over as Owlicious flew around in a circle above me.

"What? What is it Owlicious?" I asked curiously. Owlicious then flew towards a nearby shelf and landed on top of it before pecking on a book on the very end. I think he's trying to tell me something. I bet it might be something very important! I immediately got up and headed over to the shelf that Owlicious was residing at as I took the book he was pecking at and began reading over it before taking one page about a very special remedy.

"The Seeds of Truth. A special seed that is said that has the power to cure any known diseases of all Equestria. Though, the seeds can only grow when words true and pure are spoken from the one who truly needs them." 

This...this could work! I gotta go and find Twilight and the others! 

"AHHHHHH!" Huh? Me and Owlicious looked over at the window and saw many ponies running away in fear and hiding in their houses. 

"What in the world?" I wondered before a pony threw himself in the hard window, taking me by surprise as I fell on my butt.

"You gotta run and hide before you get the Cutie Pox!" The pony yelled before sliding off the window and running away in fear. I got back as Owlicious landed on my head before we looked at each other. Well this can't be good! We better find them...and fast!

I quickly rushed out of the house with Owlicious by my side as we ran past a few ponies before seeing Twilight and the others at the center of town, which was deserted. Wow, they know how to run and hide very well. Also, why is there a tumbleweed here?....You know what? Ask questions later, tell Twilight now!

"Twilight!" I called for her.

"Jamie!" Twilight turned back to me with a surprised and relief look. "Were you able to find anything?"

"Y-yeah, you see-"

"I thought I had removed their fear when last I visited here. But doors are barred, shutters shut, guess I should've stayed inside my hut." Huh? Now what? We turned over to see a striped zebra with a Mohawk with some gold piercings and gold rings circling around her neck, carrying a small brown bag around her torso.

"Zecora!" Twilight and Applejack said in surprise. 

"Oh, so this is Zecora." I said aloud. I gotta say, she looks kinda like an African American Indian.

"Oh, what is this? Another human who has awakened in the pits of the ship?" Zecora wondered, looking at me with awe.

"Umm...yes, ma'am." I nodded. Did she just rhyme?

"Yes, this is Jamie Watson." Twilight introduced me to her before moving back to the main topic. "But right now, we're so glad that we found you!"

"You gotta help us! Apple Bloom has the Cutie Pox!" Applejack added.

"Yes, and we were on our way to see if you had a cure."

"But magically your here! Was your zebra sense a tingling?" Zebra Sense? Is that even a thing?!

"My 'Zebra Sense' did not bring me around. It was a special flower that I needed found. I thought I picked enough to fix all the potions I had to mix. But after my visit with Apple Bloom, some had mysteriously left my room." Zecora explained.

"Mysteriously left your room?" I wondered before looking over at Apple Bloom, who was doing heavy-weight lifting. Surprising that she got that kind of strength to do that. "Apple Bloom, you didn't perhaps did anything with this special flower Zecora is talking about, right?"

"Uhh..." Apple Bloom glanced away, trying to act innocent, but failed to do so.

"Apple Bloom! What do you say? Did this flower just walk away?" Zecora asked in a stern tone.

"I, um..." Apple Bloom started sweating nervously, and not from the heavy-weight lifting, but from being cornered.

"A Cutie Pox cure I have forsooth, for healing power is in the Seeds of Truth." Zecora said, taking out some seeds. Oh right, that!

I quickly took out the book as Owlicious laid on my head as I finally found it and showed it to them, saying "She's right. The Seeds of Truth are special seeds which grow on the ground and only be grown by someone telling the truth in a pure way by the one who truly needs them. They can cure any known diseases known to this land!"

"Well hurry up then! Plant them already!" Applejack demanded, which Zecora did so. "....Why aren't they growing?"

"Well...someone does need to tell the truth? Right Apple Bloom?" I asked, turning to the small filly, who gulped in fear.

"Well then, let's get to it!" Applejack exclaimed before yelling "Alright, they're planted! Now somepony tell the truth!"

Suddenly, another flash of light appeared on Apple Bloom's flank, causing her to whirl around and around like a little tornado. Whoa, since where is there a Cutie-Mark for that?!

"Somepony! Somepony!" Applejack called over. That's when I noticed Pinkie Pie, standing in front of a building that looks like it was made out of sweets, which is almost surprising to me, but right now as I was saying, Pinkie started sweating nervously.

She took a deep breath and blurted "Yesterday I told Mrs. Cake that I ate two corn cakes but I ate three!"

We looked back at the ground, seeing nothing happening. 

"Okay, six! I ate six corn cakes!" Pinkie blurted, adding more sweating all over her body. "...Make it stop! MAKE IT STOOOOOP!"

"Oh man..." I muttered nervously as Apple Bloom kept spinning around in an uncontrollable way. I continued to clench my fist, feeling something inside of me wanting to unleash it....Oh, I can't take it! "Apple Bloom! Just tell the truth!"

Everypony just looked at me with shock as Apple Bloom exclaimed "Alright! Alright! I admit it! They're all fake!"

She finally stopped spinning and went back tap dancing as we noticed the ground started to shake a little.

"I figured the Heart's Desire Flower would help me get what I wanted." Apple Bloom continued her confession as everypony soon came out of their homes and overhead of her story. "So when Zecora left her hut, I mixed up a special potion and put the rest of the Heart Desire's in it!"

Now that's what I wanted to hear. Soon, the ground started shaking as a flower soon finally sprouted, showing off its beautiful form, causing everypony to gaze at it with awe. I gotta say it, seeing it here instead of the book looks more beautiful than ever. Apple Bloom came over and ate the whole thing down. Well, that wasn't I expected her to do. 

"Wait! I thought we were going to make a tea out of it!" I exclaimed in shock.

"Well, we do not have the patience to wait. Sorry if she acting so impatience." Zecora apologized with a soft smile. Soon, Apple Bloom began to stop tap dancing as all the fake Cutie-Marks around her body started disappearing.

"Apple Bloom!" Huh? Oh, it's them again. Ren, Kodiak, Mason, Carrie, Kaede , Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo came over to Apple Bloom's side as Scootaloo asked "Are you okay?"

"I'm great, and I've never been happier to be a blank flank." Apple Bloom assured with a sigh of relief.

"But I thought you would be happy considering all those Cutie-Marks you've gotten. Even though they were fake." Carrie said in concern.

"I know Carrie, but I rather earn it the old fashion way, like what my sister would say." Apple Bloom said, making Applejack smile towards her. Huh, that's good to hear. "Oh, and I'm awfully sorry for lying to you all. I was so desperate for my Cutie-Mark, I guess I got carried away. I'm really sorry I took those flowers from ya, Zecora. I wouldn't blame you if ya never wanted me to come by again..."

"Now Apple Bloom, do not be silly." Zecora smiled, much to Apple Bloom's confusion. "You are always welcome my little filly.

"Yes, and while you may have lied to us all about getting your Cutie-Mark..." I spoke up with a serious yet warm smile. "I say it was the right thing to do to tell the truth and always listen to what your heart says. We're just glad that you're okay and everything is back to normal."

"For with each mistake you learn something new. Growing up into a better you."

"Yeah, what she said." I nodded before realizing that she was nowhere to be seen. Okay, how?!

"Wow, that was some deep stuff you and Zecora went through, Jamie. I'm surprised that you would say something like that without stuttering." Ren chuckled with a grin, causing me to blush a bit.

"W-well, I was just saying..." I chuckled nervously.

"Uh oh, he's back from stuttering again." Kodi said, blinking in surprise.

"Well either way, sorry if we couldn't arrive in time. We just heard what happened right now from Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo as they told us five minutes ago about what was happening back here in Ponyville." Mason explained.

"But it looks like you got it all covered, Jamie." Kaede smiled, causing me to blush.

"W-well, it was Twilight and the others that did the work...but thank you." Wow, they really mean it. I'm...so happy. I've never been this happy from something like this before. Normally, I would be happy if a new novel came out or if there was a library that I never read from before, but this...I feel happy from hearing their compliments and how they care for me. I guess I really did save the day, but not without Twilight and the others' help.

"Say Apple Bloom, would you mind writing a letter to Princess Celestia?" Twilight asked. "Maybe you could tell her what you learned today?"

"I'd be happy to, Twilight!" Apple Bloom nodded before turning to Spike. "Spike?"

"Ready!" Spike said, taking a quill and a scroll out.

"Huh? What are they doing?" I wondered.

"Oh, every time Twilight learns something about friendship, she sends a friendship report to Princess Celestia to addressed what she learned." Ren explained.

"Oh..." I said in understanding. I guess it makes sense since she is still a student, like she said earlier.

"Dear Princess Celestia, waiting for what your heart desires can be really hard. So, you may try to take a shortcut. But this dishonesty never works, because you didn't earn what your heart desired. The only cure is being honest with yourself and others. And that's something every heart desires."

Wow, that was the most beautiful lesson I ever heard. I'm very proud of you, Apple Bloom.

Soon, Spike then scorched the letter, much to my shock.

"AHHH! Why would you do that?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"What? I was just sending a message to the princess, no big deal." Spike shrugged like it was nothing.

"B-but...you..." 

"Oh, that's a way for Spike to send the messages to Princess Celestia." Twilight explained. "I guess I'll explain it to you later."

"Yes, you should..." I sighed. I got a lot to learn if I'm going to be staying here in Equestria till we find a way back home.

"I'm really proud of ya, sis." Applejack complimented. "Seems like ya finally learned the importance of patience."

"Yep, all good things come to those who wait." Apple Bloom nodded, puffing her chest in proud. Five seconds later, the fillies and Carrie looked at each other before Apple Bloom said "Welp, I've waited long enough."

"Wait what?" I asked in surprise. Did they just ignored the entire lesson we just taught them?!

"Actually, that was way too long!" Scootaloo added.

"What?!" I exclaimed.

"Hey girls, wait up!" Carrie called over, running alongside them. "You know Apple Bloom, you mixed that potion very well in order to get the Cutie Pox. Was that really your first time?"

"Yeah, because it sounds like you might have a talent in potion making!" Sweetie Belle agreed.

With that, they took their leave, leaving us in the dust.

"Oh well, at least they learned their lesson, at least..." Ren rubbed his head bashfully.

"Yeah, guess we got nothing left to do. Come on Ren, let's head over to Fluttershy's!" Kodi said, which Ren smirked and nodded.

"Yeah, I'm going over to Rarity's place to practice and sharpened my fashion skills." Kaede proposed.

"I shall head back home and clean up while I picked up Carrie later." Mason added. As they left, Twilight turned back to me and said "You know Jamie, I'm very glad you were able to help."

"Well, I just didn't want to see Apple Bloom being infected by the Cutie Pox, that's all." I said nervously as Owlicious flew down on my shoulder and started rubbing his face on mine, much to my surprise. Whoa, what's it doing?

"Ahh, seems to me Owlicious likes you." Twilight cooed.

"Yeah, that nuzzling means he likes you." Spike added.

"Really?" I asked in surprise before looking at Owlicious, who smiles and says 'Hoo' at me. I guess he does. "He does..."

"You know Jamie, why not we become study buddies?" Twilight offered. "I mean, we both love to read! To do research! You can even be my co-librarian!"

"Really?!" I asked in surprise. Well, I am an author, but being a librarian...that's quite an amazing task to take. I mean, I can even write my books there to show this new world I live in. 

"Yeah! We can even become good friends!" Spike nudged me with a smirk and whispered "And perhaps win somepony's heart."

I blushed while looking at Twilight, who smiled back at me. I don't know why, but why am I blushing so hard? A-Am I really falling in love with her? No, we're friends. We barely know each other....wait, did I say friend? Friend....

"Hey Jamie, you okay? You're blushing a lot." Spike pointed out, much to my surprise as Twilight let out a giggle and said "Well, I take it you want the job, eh?"

"Y-yes Twilight." I nodded with a smile. "I'll gladly take the job."

"That's good to hear!" Twilight nodded. "You know, something tells me that we're going to be good study buddies."

"Yeah..." I nodded, trying my best to hide my blush from her. You know, the moment I got here, I thought these guys might try to hurt, betray, or even use me. But after getting to know them for a couple of days, I guess I was wrong. They aren't bad, they're...nice. I can really put my trust in them. Like Twilight said, they'll always be there for us and we'll always be there for them. That is truly the Magic of Friendship. Ooh! I should write that down in...my....

"Oh no!" I gasped, confusing Twilight and her assistants.

"What? What's wrong?" Twilight asked in worried.

"I left my journal back at the library! I just realized that!" I exclaimed, running back to the Golden Oaks Library in a hurry, with Twilight, Spike, and Owlicious following after me. Oh man, oh man, oh man! How could I be so clumsy?! I guess all that Cutie Pox talk really made me forget! Oh well, at least I learned so much here in Ponyville! Now then, on to the books to learn more about the wonderful lands of Equestria! But you know what....I think I found my reason to keep on living. It's by the power of friendship from them. With their help, I'm ready to tackle anything down! I'll keep on trying my best to keep on living!

To Be Continued
> Chapter 34 - Brothers And Sisters Forever!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Li'l sis! Wake up!" 

Yaaaaaaawn...what? I slowly began to wake up

"Big brother? What is it?" I asked curiously.

"Carrie, come on. I made a delicious breakfast." Mason smiled as he kept shaking him until I was finally up, wearing nothing more than my grey shorts and white shirt. "Come on."

"Okay..." I let out a yawn as I got out of our bed, started to put on my clothes as we headed downstairs and saw everyone was here. Ren, Kaede, and Kodiak were helping out in the kitchen while Jamie was reading a book that says "The History of Equestria". 

"Oh, good morning Carrie and Mason." Jamie greeted us with a wave before looking back at his book.

"Ahh, good morning guys." I waved at them before rubbing my eyes as both Ren and Kaede walked to the table with Kodi carrying a plate of a bunch of pancakes on his back, and they had whipped cream and a cherry on top. "Whoa!"

"Hey Carrie, how you hanging?" Ren winked at me with a grin before me and big brother sat down.

"I think I'm doing well, Ren." I yawned before smiling softly and looking at Kodi, still holding the plate of pancakes. "Hm? What's up Kodi?"

"Duh, it's your! I hope you like it! Mason and the others made this for you!" Kodi barked happily, his tail wagging in joy.

"F-for me?" I asked in surprise before taking the plate off his back. "Wow! Thank you all!"

"Don't mention it. Mason taught us a little on how to make it, well all except for Ren and Jamie." Kaede sighed.

"Yeah, that was the only thing I was good at making." Ren chuckled, rubbing his head bashfully. "As for Jamie...Mason helped him out on making the pancakes, but it was kinda difficult for him."

"Sorry if I messed things up again. I haven't gotten any sleep the other night due to having a study session with Twilight." Jamie sighed before turning a page on his book. "Right now, I'm reading everything I can about Equestria."

Mason let out a sigh before turning to me with a deadpan expression and said "Apparently, Jamie told us this morning that he had to continue reading that book for a while. One is where he checks it out and reads it, the second time is where he writes everything down in his journal, and the third is to study everything about it."

"Jeez, it's like he's trying to study for an exam." Ren sighed, sweat-dropping a little. "I mean, we haven't been going to school due to us being here in this world."

"Yeah well, I want to keep up my studies, even about studying this world and being trapped in it, too." Jamie retorted before taking a bite of his pancake. 

"Yeah, but there's a thing called 'over-study." Kaede pointed out.

"Don't worry guys, I'll be fine." Jamie assured with a small worried grin. "Besides, I've done this a lot back then."

"Wow, he must be extremely smart as Twilight." Kodi muttered, which I nodded in agreement.

"Oh well! At least this taste so good! Thanks big brother!" I chuckled before eating my pancakes.

"Don't mention sis." Mason smiled before saying "By the way, we need to head over to Rarity's shop."

"Huh? Really?" I asked curiously. "Why's that big brother?"

"It's just...some stuff I have to do." Mason said, covering his mouth with his scarf. Huh? Wonder what my brother wants to do so badly? 

"Oh yeah, speaking of which, I have to go over there as well to help Rarity out on some new clothesline." Kaede said, remembering about it.

"Oh, new clothesline?" Ren asked as Kodi hopped on his head and laid on it.

"Yeah, she says it's for a very important customer for her." Kaede explained.

"I see." Ren nodded with a smile. "Well I gotta go to Fluttershy's cottage."

"Huh? Why? Is she teaching you about love again?" Mason asked.

"Wait? Love again?" Jamie asked curiously, getting his eyes off the book.

"Yeah! She and Ren are lovers!" I pointed out, surprising Jamie.

"What?! Y-you have a girfriend?!...And it's that Pegasus?!" Jamie exclaimed in shock.

"Well yeah." Ren shrugged. "I know it sounds weird, but I don't mind."

"O-oh...I see. Sorry for overreacting there." Jamie sighed before saying "It's just that...it's weird for me to even hear about interspecies relation."

"Interspecies what?" I asked curiously.

"In other terms, two different kinds falling in love." Mason clarified.

"Yeah, this is actually quite a development. I should write that down later." Jamie said, returning back to his book.

"So anyway, yeah, it's that. Also about Kodi." Ren said, much to our confusion.

"Why? Is there something wrong with Kodiak?" Kaede asked in worried.

"Well, have you guys that he's getting a little bigger?" Ren asked. Actually, come to think of it, I did seen him get a little bigger for a while now. "Plus, he's getting a little heavy."

"I'm telling ya Ren, I'm feeling fine." Kodi assured with a soft grin before letting out a burp. "Excuse me."

I let out a giggle as I said "Yep, excuse you Kodiak."

"I see." Mason nodded. "Well, I guess me and my sister should be heading our way once she's done, okay sis?"

"I'm already done." I said, much to his surprise. He saw my entire plate already finished.

"Huh...guess you were really hungry, eh?"

"Yep! It was so delicious as always!" 

"Thought so." Big brother rolled his eyes playfully before clearing his throat. "Alright, let us be on our way."

"Okay! Bye Ren! Bye Kaede! Bye Jamie!" I waved goodbye to them.

"See ya later, Carrie. I'll see you by noon." Kaede said with a smile.

"Yeah, bye..." Jamie waved goodbye, not bothering to look over to us as he was too busy with his book.

"See ya Carrie!" Ren waved goodbye back to us.

"Bye!" Kodi waved goodbye with a happy bark as me and big brother left the home-ship and began heading over to Ponyville. While walking there, I turned to Mason and asked "So what is it that wants you to go over to Carousel Boutique?"

"Well...let's just say it's a special surprise for a little someone." Mason winked at me, much to my confusion. Wonder who's he talking about? Wonder if it's...Huh?

"Hey! Look over there!" I pointed out to see smoke coming out somewhere in Ponyville. Mason became alarmed to see it as he widened his eyes and said "Oh no, that's coming from the same direction from Carousel Boutique!"

"Oh no!" I gasped. "What if Rarity and Sweetie Belle are in trouble?!"

"Come on!" Mason grabbed me and held me by the shoulder before running towards the scene.



We finally arrived to town and found Carousel Boutique before Mason immediately kicked the door opened with all his might as he settled me down as we rushed into the scene.

"Is everyone okay?!...Huh?" Mason blinked in surprise, finding nothing burning and seeing two ponies sitting on the table. One was a light gray pony with blue eyes and had brown mane and tail and his Cutie-Mark had three footballs on it. The second was a dark pink pony with an indigo color mane and tail and had light blue eyes. Her Cutie-Mark had three cookies, only two of them looked like they were bit off while the third remained fine.

We all stared at each other, wondering what's going on here.

"Uhh...hi?" I waved slowly at them as we heard footsteps walking down the stairs as we saw Rarity coming down.

"What on earth is going on?!" Rarity demanded before noticing me and my big brother. "Mason? Carrie?! What on the devil are you doing here?"

"We saw a fire coming from your shop and thought you and your sister were in trouble." Mason explained. "But it seems like it was a false alarm."

"Yeah but, why was there smoke coming out of the shop?" I wondered.

"We can explain..." We turned to the ponies walking towards us with smiles on their faces. "Names Hondo Flanks and this is my wife, Cookie Crumbles."

"Hello there sweetie." Cookie Crumbles waved at me, causing me to wave at them while Mason looked at them with a raised brow.

"Oookay..." Huh? Guess he's confuse about the names. Well, they sound pretty funny. "Sorry about breaking down your door." Mason bowed, apologizing to them for breaking down Rarity's door.

"Nah, it's alright. I'll go and find a repair pony to fix that up." Hondo assured.

"Indeed father." Rarity nodded, examining the door as it was still crooked from Mason's powerful kick. 

"Father? Wait, are they your parents?" I asked curiously, which Rarity nodded and replied "Why yes. Though, I told them a lot about you and your brother, and also your friends."

"So you're these humans that appeared from that giant rock outside of Ponyville. Nice to meet you all." Cookie Crumbles smiled towards me and said "And also to you, sweetie."

I giggled and blushed before saying "You too Miss Cookie."

"It is an honor to meet you Mr Hondo Flanks and Mrs. Cookie Crumbles." Mason bowed to them like a gentleman, which made Hondo laughed.

"Why, thank you." Hondo bowed back at him. "You know, you're quite the gentle-pony. Wouldn't be a surprise if you start dating my daughter."

"Father!" Rarity exclaimed in embarrassment while Mason became surprised of that. I, however, smiled slyly at that. Mason and Rarity...hmm, well, that would be a perfect match. Rarity acts like Elena, well except for the drama queen moments of hers.

"Kidding, I was just kidding sweetie!" Hondo laughed, causing Rarity to sweat-drop and sigh.

"So anyway, Mr. Hondo-"

"Please, call me Hondo, Mason." Hondo winked, much to Mason's surprise.

"R-right...anyway, I was wondering where did that smoke come from?"

"Ah right. You see-"

"I'm done!" We turned around to see Sweetie Belle walking towards the Dining Hall with a bunch of plates in her hands. It looked like pancakes except they were all burned up. "Oh hey Mason! Carrie! What are you guys doing here?"

"Hi Sweetie Belle!" I waved at her before saying "Big brother brought me for something he wants to do."

"Sweetie Belle!" Rarity gasped. "W-what were you doing earlier?!"

"Making breakfast for mom and dad before they take their leave for their vacation." Sweetie Belle replied, much to her confusion.

"V-vacation?!" Rarity exclaimed. "Is that this week? As in 'starting this very instant' this week?!"

"Yep!" Sweetie Belle nodded before settling some of the breakfast down, and man, it sured looked....all burned up.

"How do you even burn juice?" Mason wondered aloud with a raised brow.

"Oh! Umm...Is that apple sauce?" I asked curiously, seeing her put a bowl filled with blacked burned liquid. 

"Nope, it's toast!" Sweetie Belle answered innocently, much to my confusion. But...how do you even turn toast into liquid? 

"Oh...Okay." I shrugged with a soft smile. Oh well, guess i shouldn't let it bother me too much. 

"Besides! This week while mom and dad are off on their little honeymoon! Me and my sister are gonna have the bestest time two sisters could ever have!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed happily.

"Really?!" I asked in excitement. "Well I guess that goes for me too since me and my big brother are gonna spend a lot today!" 

"That's awesome! Oh wait, I better go and grab my stuff from Dad's wagon!" Sweetie Belle said before taking off.

"Well, she seemed energetic." Mason commented.

"So, now..." Rarity turned to her parents with an incredulous look. "When you say a week...is that, um...seven whole days?"

"And six nights, I know! Such a short time to spend with your little sis." Cookie Crumbles smiled.

"I see, so you must be going to your honeymoon, eh?" Mason asked.

"That's right! Besides, I know our daughters will get along just fine." Hondo Flanks assured before noticing Rarity not eating her breakfast. "You're gonna eat that?"

"Eh..." Rarity handed him her plate of burned orange slices, which he happily delighted to eat.

"Do not worry Rarity, I'll make you some breakfast. Besides..." Mason bent down and whispered something in Rarity's ear, which made her widen her eyes in surprise.

"Oh my! That's such a nice thing to do, Mason!" Rarity smiled happily at him. "I'll let Kaede know and ask her to go and help out on the clothesline I"m working on. Remember, it's a very important task to do for my client."

"I understand, but if it's alright..." Mason looked at me for a second before whispering to her ear again.

"Of course, you and Carrie may stay here. Besides, she might spend some time with Sweetie Belle while I work on my long to-do list." Rarity sighed in relief. 

Huh? What are they talking about? I only heard Rarity, but not my big brother. Man, now I'm more curious to know what are they saying! Suddenly, we heard a loud crash from behind me as I looked behind and became surprised to see Sweetie Belle with a bunch of bags around her.

"Just a few necessities." Sweetie replied with a big grin, causing Rarity to sigh and Mason to raise a brow.

"For a filly, she's got a lot of muscle." Mason muttered in amazement.

"Well, we should get going." Hondo said with a smile before turning to my big brother. "And I hope you take care of my daughters, and I hope you weren't planning on dating my Li'l Rarity."

"Father!" Rarity exclaimed, blushing red, along with Mason.

"R-rest assured Hondo Flanks and Cookie Crumbles, I wouldn't do such a thing as that." Mason shook his head, using his scarf to hide his blush. Tee-hee, I guess big brother's too embarrass to even admit that.

"Alright! We'll see ya next week!" Hondo exclaimed before he and his wife grabbed their bags by using their magic and ran out of the house, with Rarity and Sweetie waving goodbye to them as they quickly got onto a carriage and was off. Wonder how they got it so fast?

"Now..." Rarity spoke up, walking back to the shop with Sweetie by her side. "Let's get that kitchen all cleaned up."

"Cleaned up? But we haven't even eaten yet." Sweetie reminded her.

"Well now, Sweetie Belle, I appreciate the gesture, but we simply can't eat this breakfast." Rarity pointed towards the food Sweetie Belle made earlier. "It's burnt."

"It's not that burnt." Sweetie answered as she looked over at the burned and black liquid on the plate.

"Don't worry, like I said before, I'll help out make you all breakfast." Mason assured with a serious look.

"What? B-but Mason darling, I wouldn't want you-"

"It's quite alright. I'll be happy to do it for you and little sister, Rarity." Mason cut her off as he headed over to the kitchen. I walked next to Rarity and Sweetie and said "Don't worry Rarity, my big brother is very strong and kind, though he's stubborn sometimes, he's very helpful with anyone."

"Yes, but I didn't want him to overwork himself." Rarity said with worried.

"Well, how about we help him?" Sweetie offered.

"Oh, er..." Rarity looked at her sister with an unsure look as she said "O-of course, er...in one moment, Sweetie Belle. Let me just get things started."

"Okay!" Sweetie nodded as we walked into the kitchen and saw Mason about to make breakfast. 

"Hm? Rarity? Sweetie? Carrie? What are you all doing here? I told you all that I was making breakfast for you all." Mason reminded us.

"I know, but we decided that we want to help out as well!" I explained with a big grin.

"True." Rarity nodded. "Besides, you need some help. After all, the breakfast I wished is a very proper one. I can show you."

"That's...okay Rarity, I can handle it." Mason assured.

"Please, let me help you. I'll show you. Besides, I don't want to overwork yourself for me." Rarity shook her head with a soft smile before using her horn to lift a bowl with her magic and grabbing some ingredients and putting them into the bowl before mixing them.

"Well...I guess I do need all the help I can get." Mason softly smiled as he began mixing the bowl with Rarity. We waited patiently for our turn to be ready, but fifteen minutes later, they settled down four plates of eggs down the table along with some glass of juice, some french toast along with syrup, much to our surprise. But...I thought Rarity said we could help.

"Hey! What about us?! We want to help too!" Sweetie exclaimed.

"You are!" Rarity nodded with a weak grin. "You...can...put the garnish on the plates."

"You mean this parsley?" She asked as we spotted it on the counter.

"Yes." Rarity nodded as I grabbed it and walked over to the plate of eggs. 

"Oh, so all we have to do is put it on the plate of eggs?" I asked curiously.

"Of course Carrie, just do it a little easy, please." Big brother told me, focusing on the mixing bowl. "Just like back home when we were served with something like that. You can do that, right?"

"Of course we can big brother!" I nodded with a determined look before I slowly put it down on the plate of eggs while Sweetie did the same with another parsley as she used her horn to bring a stool over before standing on it and attempted to put the second parsley on Rarity's plate of eggs.

"No, that's too slow!" Rarity exclaimed, causing Sweetie to nearly fall off before regaining her balance. She tried again until... "Careful! Back up!"

Rarity came over and tried to make sure Sweetie didn't fall off the stool, which started to wobble. "Looking for perfection here..." Rarity muttered.

"Whoa, whoa!" Sweetie accidentally lost her balance and fell on me, causing me to fall off until I grabbed the table's cloth in hopes of not falling off until I accidentally caused it to launched the breakfast into the air when I pulled it too hard.

"Oh no!" I gasped until Mason noticed and immediately caught all the plates before they landed on the ground. Unfortunately, the juices that they spilled onto him, much to our surprise.

"Not too bad. Thank you, Mason." Rarity sighed in relief as she softly smiled at my big brother, who sighed and replied "It's no problem Rarity."

"Big brother! I am so sorry that happened!" I apologized.

"Yeah, me too!" Sweetie added.

"It's okay Carrie and Sweetie Belle, it was just an accident. You two didn't mean it." Mason assured with a soft grin. 

Man, I really messed up, but I know I can make up for it somehow!



Kaede's POV
Ahh, it feels good to take a little stroll towards Carousel Boutique. I even had my stuffed cat toy, Coco, with me in my arms. Soon after I arrived to the shop to help out Rarity on those new clotheslines, I saw Rarity and Mason cleaning up the place.

"Hey Rarity, Mason." I greeted them, gaining their attention.

"Ah, hello there Kaede. You arrived early." Rarity said in surprise.

"Yeah, I just didn't feel like being late, that's all." I answered honestly with a light chuckle before taking a look at the floor, seeing some juice spilled. "What happened here?"

"Sweetie Belle and Carrie happened." Rarity sighed. "They were trying to help me and Mason make breakfast, but this happened."

"Don't blame them Rarity, they were trying to help at least." Mason assured with a soft grin.

"You're right about that." Rarity nodded. "Though, I wished they be too careful on how they do things."

"Well they are kids, so they're still learning." I reminded her. "Speaking of which, where are they?"

"Oh, they're in the laundry room bringing in the dirty towels we used to clean up the spill." Mason answered.

"Oh, I see. Well I guess that's one way on how they could help out." I shrugged with a soft smile.

"Speaking of helping out, I need you to do me a favor Kaede." Rarity said, turning to me with a soft smile. "Do you mind if you make the clothesline while I go make Carrie's little surprise."

"Huh? Me?" I asked incredulous. She's tasking me on making the clothesline for her. "A-Are you sure about that? I mean, I'm only known for making costumes, and I'm still learning to make clothes, you know."

"Don't worry, I have faith in you. And if you messed up just a little, I can always go and fix it." Rarity assured.

"Well...okay." I said with a smile.

"Thanks darling, now then let me go and check on how Sweetie Belle and Carrie are doing." Rarity said as she walked outside and let out a gasp. Me and Mason looked at each other in concern before heading out ourselves, finding both Sweetie Belle and Carrie hanging some clothes on a line. Seems like they were trying to dry to them off.

"I told ya we could be some big help!" Carrie said with a grin before noticing me. "Oh, hi Kaede!"

"Umm...hi there Carrie." I waved slowly at her with a weak grin.

"So...surprised Rarity?" Sweetie asked, eager to have her sister be happy. Unfortunately, it was the opposite.

Rarity looked behind the young girls with a shocked look on her face as she exclaimed "Am I? You washed my incredibly expensive one-of-a-kind designer crocheted wool sweater?! Do you know how hard these things are to come by?!"

"Wow, that was a mouthful." Carrie muttered as Sweetie asked "What's the big deal?"

"Girls..." I spoke up with a worried look. "The big deal is that in the heat of the sun, wool..." Unfortunately, as the sun shined brightly at the clothes, the sweater immediately shrunked, too small for even Rarity to even wear. "Shrinks..."

"Oh...sorry." Sweetie and Carrie apologized in unison.

"Nng..." Rarity had a frustrated look before taking a deep breath and soon calmed her rage down. Oh good, that's a relief. "Well. Back to work. Come along Kaede, we must create."

"Right, I'll get right on those new clothesline." I nodded with a soft smile as we both headed back inside until I noticed Mason walking towards his sister and Sweetie Belle.

"I'll go and try to fold the clothes up." Mason said, walking over to the clothes as he began taking them down from the line.

"We're sorry?" Carrie said as Mason sighed and said "It's alright Carrie. Just go and play with Sweetie Belle and please stay out of trouble, alright?"

"But...we were only trying to help..." Sweetie sighed as she and Carrie sadly walked back inside of the Carousel Boutique. Poor girls, they just want to help their siblings out, but only making things worse. Back then, my step-sisters always forced me to do things and made me do them over and over again until I get it right. I just...feel terrible for them.



Later
While I was bus making those new clothesline for Rarity's customer like she asked me to do while she worked on with Carrie's surprise and Mason was helping out the place, since he was waiting for it to be done. I started to think about Carrie and Sweetie Belle. The poor girls...Maybe I should go check on them.

I put down my sewing string before leaving my working space, finding both Carrie and Sweetie Belle drawing something.

"Huh? Hey girls, what you two up too now?" I asked curiously, walking towards them.

"Oh! We're making these drawings for big brother and Rarity so that we can forgive them!" Carrie replied with a big grin on her face. "I know they'll both love it!"

"Yeah! I know they'll love it Carrie!" Sweetie nodded in agreement as they finally finished their drawings.

"Done!" They both shouted in unison before looking at each other and letting out some giggles. I looked over their drawings and saw cute little drawings of Carrie and Sweetie Belle standing with each of their own siblings. I know Carrie was raised by a wealthy family from Europe, but she developed such a close bond with her brother and she wishes to be useful just like Mason. The same goes for Rarity, despite her dramatic moments, she's very generous and caring. She even gave me these lessons of sewing that I never even heard of from my classes. 

"Wow, these drawings looks amazing! I can't wait for Rarity and Mason to see them!" Sweetie said in excitement while Carrie rubbed her chin in thought.

"Yeah but, I feel like it's missing something..." Carrie wondered while Sweetie realized what she meant she rubbed her chin with her hoof in thought.

"Yeah, but what?..." Sweetie thought as well. They then noticed something glimmering from behind me as they looked back and got up from their seats, walking towards a chest filled with sapphires.

"Whoa..." They both muttered in amazement.

"I'm not sure they'll like you two using that stuff. Those are very special sapphires stones Rarity found a while back." I said with a concern look before realizing what I said. "Though, I don't know where she could've gotten them from."

"Don't worry Carrie, I'm sure they'll understand!" Carrie assured with a grin as they both grabbed as many sapphires from the chest, much to my shock, and began using glue on the paper and attached them to their papers. Oh, this can't be good!

Soon, I saw both Rarity and Mason coming down the stairs with Rarity using her magic to carry a fabric with scissors and Mason carrying a bunch of folded clothes.

"Ah Kaede, just in time." Rarity said with a smile. "I just came by to see if you were still doing the new clothesline."

"Yeah, j-just a little a break." I chuckled nervously, much to their confusion.

"What's going on, Kaede?" Mason asked.

"W-what? No! Nothing is going wrong at all!" I lied, trying to make sure that they don't know about what Carrie and Sweetie Belle are doing. Mason and Rarity raised brows at me, getting  suspicious of me.

"...Alright, what are they up to now?" Mason demanded. I sighed sadly, having no choice but to tell them what they done. Unfortunately, both Sweetie and Carrie immediately came out with happy expressions on their faces as they held the pictures they made for their older siblings, with the sapphire blue gems glued to them.

"Hi big brother! Hi Rairty! We both made a special drawing for-"

"AHHHHHHHH!" Rarity screamed in shock, backing away in fear while I made a worried look while Mason widened his eyes at his sister and Sweetie Belle.

"C-Carrie! Please don't tell me you used those gems from the chest?" Mason asked.

"Yeah?" Carrie nodded with a confused look.

"Carrie's right, but we know that Rarity has more in her work room..." Sweetie said, also having a confused look.

"But girls, those were the only ones left Rarity ever own!" I pointed out. "That's what I was trying to tell you girls!"

"Oh..." They both muttered in shock before noticing Mason's stern look and Rarity's shocked expression as she exclaimed "Exactly! These are extremely rare baby blue sapphires! I need them for one of the outfits fro the client! The one I assigned Kaede to help out!"

"Rarity wait, it's my fault, don't take it out on them. They didn't know!" I pleaded before saying "Despite me trying to tell them."

"We're sorry." Carrie and Sweetie Belle apologized sadly.

Mason soon dropped his stern look and sighed. "Carrie, Sweetie Belle, what are we going to do with you?"

"Oh! We can paint together?" Carrie thought, not catching on what Mason meant. "Or maybe ride bikes, play chess, sing a song, play some video games with Ren, or-"

"That's not what he meant!" Rarity exclaimed angrily.

"She's right." Mason said, giving his sister a stern and calm expression, which made her smile sheepishly. 

"Now I have to go and find some more of these gems!" Rarity said, walking towards the door.

"I'll come too. Carrying a lot of gems might be too hard for you." Mason said, walking towards the door.

"We'll go and help you guys out!" Carrie said with a happy smile.

"Yeah!" Sweetie nodded in agreement.

"No!" Rarity pleaded before clearing her throat and said "N-no thank you."

"Though, I guess you girls can help out by picking up the papers and stack them back in order, neatly. Put the pens and pencils back exactly where you found them, and please find something to do that doesn't create a large mess for us to clean up." Mason said sternly before sighing and turning to his sister. "Please Carrie, you're only making things worse. Just...please sit down and wait for me to finish with something. It is a very important thing."

Carrie sighed sadly and said "Yes big brother..."

"Thank you." Mason softly smiled before he and Rarity took their leave. I remained silent and looked at the girls with a sad look. I feel so bad for them, and they didn't deserve this much harsh. 

"Geez louise, can't we do anything right?" Sweetie Belle said, making an upset look on her face.

"Guess we can't." Carrie said, feeling upset that her brother doesn't want any of her help.

"Carrie...Sweetie Belle..." I turned to them with a small grin. "They're doing something very important for a special someone, and they don't have more work getting in the way. I hope you understand."

"Okay..." Carrie sighed before she and Sweetie Belle turned around and began heading upstairs. I sighed and began to head back into my work room and began finishing up the dress. Well, I guess I can understand their reasons, they were like me when I wanted to help out my step-mom and my step-sisters, but they like to ridicule everything I do. I just...understand how they feel.



Later
Phew....finally. It took about an hour or so, but I'm finally done making these dresses. Even without the sapphires, I say they look amazing. Hmm, you know, it's been a while since I last check up on both Sweetie Belle and Carrie, I should go and see them.

I got out of my work space and headed upstairs to go and check on them, only to find Rarity's inspiration room completely organized. 

"Oh hi Kaede!" Sweetie Belle greeted me.

"Hey girls..." I said, looking around the place with amazement. "Wow, did you girls did all this?"

"Yep! You like it? We clean this place and organized it properly." Carrie smiled happily.

"I say we outdone ourselves." Sweetie nodded.

"That's great girls, hopefully Mason and Rarity will like the hardwork you did to clean up her place..." I soon noticed a bunch of naked pony mannequins. Strange, didn't Rarity said that she was working on the special surprise for Carrie in here?....Oh no.

"What? What's wrong Carrie?" Carrie asked in worried.

"She's probably so excited by the way how we cleaned up this place that she's speechless!" Sweetie guessed, which made Carrie smiled.

"Oh! That has to be it!" Carrie nodded. Nope, that's not it at all! Don't worry Kaede, I'm sure that you can fix it up! You got plenty of time before-

"Sweetie Belle! Carrie! Kaede! We're back!" Oh no, this is bad! We immediately turned around to see Rarity and Mason entering the inspiration room with smiles on their faces.

"I take it you and Sweetie Belle behave yourselves while we were gone, Car-" Mason paused upon seeing the entire inspiration room was clean, including the mannequins which contained the special gift for Carrie.

"Surprise!" Both Carrie and Sweetie Belle announced in unison as Mason and Rarity walked over to the mannequins. Their shocked expressions turning into anger.

"My inspiration room! What did you do? What did you do?!" Rarity demanded.

"Caroline Hunter! Why did you clean up the place?!" Mason asked in a stern and angry look.

"B-big brother, me and Sweetie Belle saw this big mess in Rarity's room..." Carrie started, twiddling her fingers with nervousness. 

"So we thought we'd clean it up for her." Sweetie Belle finished. "And we did a real good job organizing everything." 

"Yeah! We did a good job, right?" Carrie said, pointing over to a bunch of folded fabric and such on the ground.

"This wasn't a mess! It was organized chaos!" Rarity exclaimed. "I was just about finished planning on a very special fashion line, and you two...you went...you put everything away!"

"But every time we made a mess, you two get upset." Sweetie Belle argued.

"Because you girls don't know what you're doing! That's why we told you girls to sit down and wait for us or go play outside and instead, you!" Mason clenched his fists in anger and yelled "I'm disappointed in you Carrie! You should know better not to do stuff such as this!

"But...we were only trying to help..." Carrie said, feeling terrible for this.

"And it would be the only way to make you two happy." Sweetie added, looking down in sadness.

"Happy? Happy?! I..." Rarity started gritting her teeth in anger.

"Carrie, Sweetie Belle...please leave and go play your games somewhere else. I'll call you both in for the special surprise later." Mason demanded. 

"But big brother-"

"Now!" Mason yelled. "I'm trying to have Rarity make something very important and you just want to drive us nuts! Just go and don't try to ruin anything else that will affect her work!"

"Yes...what he said." Rarity nodded, causing Carrie to widened her eyes in shock, even I was surprised by this. I guess all that helping both Carrie and Sweetie Belle might've gotten them over the edge.

Carrie continued to look at him until she formed an angry look at her brother and exclaimed "Fine! I don't need you then! I was trying my best to help out people like you do and instead, you never want my help! Well then fine! I don't need you then! I don't need a brother so selfish and stubborn as you!"

With that, Carrie immediately ran off with tears in her eyes and ran out of the room, surprising us all as Sweetie chased after her and yelled "Carrie wait!"

Before Sweetie left, she looked at both Rarity and Mason with a glare before taking her leave in pursuit in Carrie. Both Mason and Rarity were shocked upon seeing all this, they were speechless by what Carrie said.

"Carrie..." Mason muttered. I turned to them with an irritated and upset expression and said "Why would you guys say that to them?! They were trying to help out!"

"We know Kaede dear, but..." Rarity tried to say something, but couldn't find the right words. "Umm...eh...."

"I just didn't want them to keep ruining things. I was just telling them to play somewhere so that Rarity can continue to work on the special surprise for Carrie!" Mason explained, feeling terrible for what he said to Carrie. "Now look at what I've done...Why did I say that?..."

"I know, but they didn't know! They were trying their best in order to get your attention and see how useful they could be!" I explained.

"I know Kaede, but I really needed to finish up Carrie's dress." Rarity retorted. 

"Yes, tomorrow's her birthday after I found out the other day when Twilight handed me a calendar to know about what month we are in here in Equestria." Mason explained sadly. "I just...wanted her to feel happy. But now it seems that I ruined it. I came here and asked Rarity to make it for her, and did all her chores so that she could get to work on it."

"I see..." I nodded before letting out a sigh. I looked at them with a sad look and said "I'll go and look for Carrie and Sweetie Belle."

"Kaede wait!" Mason said, grabbing ahold of my hand. "Please tell Carrie that I'm sorry, I didn't mean to say all that."

I looked at him and saw how he really felt: Depressed and heartbroken. He really does mean it. I then softly smiled and said "Alright. Just stay here you two and get to work on that special something for Carrie."

Mason and Rarity nodded, still feeling terrible for hurting the girls' feelings as I rushed out of the place and in hopes of finding them. I better find them quickly, who knows what those two might end up doing.



Where could they be? After my little talk with both Mason and Rarity, I began searching them out around Ponyville, but nobody has seen Carrie nor Sweetie Belle. The only place I haven't checked is Sweet Apple Acres, but if they're not there...I could only think of the worst. 

"Hey Kaede!" Huh? Isn't that Ren? I stopped and turned around, seeing both Ren and Kodiak running towards me. 

"Ren? Kodi? What are you two doing here?" I asked, a little surprise to see them here.

"Eh, we just finished up with Fluttershy. Apparently, she told me that Kodi is starting to grow up, meaning that he's almost turning 1." Ren explained with a shrug.

"Yep! I'm actually pretty excited to finally be getting a growth spurt." Kodi grinned.

"Really?" I asked incredulous before realizing what I was doing earlier. "N-never mind! Right now, I need to find Carrie and Sweetie Belle!"

"Why? What happened?" Ren asked.

"Well...let's just say they both had a fallen out with their older siblings." I answered, rubbing my hand bashfully.

"What?!" Ren and Kodi exclaimed in shock.

"Mason and Carrie...had a fallen out?" Ren raised a brow before crossing his arms with an incredulous look. "I find that hard to believe."

"Come on Ren, Kodiak! I need you two to help find them! I already searched around town and the apple farm is the only place that I hadn't checked out!"

"Okay, okay, Kay! We'll help ya out!" Ren assured.

"Okay, let's...wait, did you just call me 'Kay'?" I asked in surprise. Ren rubbed his head bashfully and said "Yeah, it's a nickname. Like it?"

I blushed a bit before glancing away and muttered "W-whatever. Let's...just go already."

"Alright, alright. Let's go guys!" Ren said before we all ran through the path that leads to the Sweet Apple Acres. We finally arrived to the place and looked around the farm till we noticed Carrie, Sweetie Belle, who were talking to Applejack and Apple Bloom.

"Sweetie Belle! Carrie!" I called for them, gaining their attention.

"Huh? Oh hi Kaede, Ren, and Kodi." Carrie greeted us with a soft smile as we ran towards their side and Kodi nuzzling her leg.

"What are you all doing here?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"We came searching for you, that's why." I replied, angering Carrie a bit as she turned away and crossed her arms as she exclaimed "If you're here to take me to Mason, then you can forget it."

"Wow...she really did had a falling out with him." Ren said in surprise.

"Yeah, she told us what happened." Applejack explained. "We found them crying around through the orchard fields and talked with them what happened. I'm surprise that Mason of all ponies would talk to his sister like that."

"Well, he was getting stressed out from all the help they both were trying to do." I said before realizing what I said as I raise my hands up and said "Not that I'm irritated about that at all."

"It's okay Kaede, we know that you aren't mad. Just mad at our older siblings." Sweetie Belle sighed.

"Wow, you girls and your siblings really are mad at each other." Ren said in surprise before saying "Back home, me, my sister, and my brother never fight all the time."

"Lucky..." Carrie sighed before blowing some of her hair sadly. Poor Carrie...

"Yeah, we even tried to get them to maybe convince their siblings to participate into the Sisterhooves Social." Apple Bloom said with a concern look. "Despite Mason being a boy."

"What's the Sisterhooves Social?" I asked curiously.

"It's a competition where sisters alike compete in strings of events and wins a trophy on whoever wins in it." Applejack explained with a smug look. "Me and Apple Bloom compete in it every year."

"Wow, that's neat." Ren commented.

"Yeah, but I bet both Mason and Rarity won't even bother to go there since they said it's 'uncouth'." Sweetie Belle said in extreme sarcasm on that last part.

Kodi gasped before saying "That's terrible!...What's uncouth?"

"I think it means something that's lack good manners or perfection." Ren shrugged.

"Rarity thinks everything's uncouth." Applejack rolled her eyes before saying "But I'm sure Mason doesn't think so. I'm sure he'll participate in it."

"But sis, isn't it for girls only?" Apple Bloom reminded her.

"Yeah, but I'll talk to Granny Smith on making it an exception." Applejack assured with a grin. Carrie scoffed and said "Yeah right, not after what he said. He thinks I'm useless..."

"That's not true Carrie! He says that he's sorry for what he's done." I said, trying to tell her, but she crossed her arms and looked away. I sighed and realize that she and Sweetie Belle were too angry to even listen to us.

"Kaede's right. Just give Rarity and Mason some time alone and they'll come around. Brothers and sisters always do." Applejack assured as she and Apple Bloom hugged each other with grins on their faces. I started to think about what she said, realizing that didn't imply my step-sisters since they never show sympathy towards me at all back when I was younger.

"Not sisters like Rarity and Mason." Sweetie Belle responded, angrily.

"Yeah." Carrie nodded in agreement.

"Come on, now." Applejack said with a grin. "Apple Bloom and I got some chores to finish up on. Maybe you all can help out."

"You sure you want us to help? We'll just messed everything up!" Carrie whined.

"Oh come on, that's just stinking thinking." Applejack waved it off before walking over to a tree and said "Watch."

She then kicked the tree, dropping some apples from the tree. She then grabbed a bruised apple that a worm appeared out of it. Okay, eww. Soon, I noticed Ren clutching upon his stomach, his face nearly turning green.

"You alright Ren? You don't look so good." I asked in worried.

"Y-yeah, I'll...be fine." Ren assured.

"Really? Because you looked like you're about to puke." Kodi pointed out. Huh, wonder what's got him under the rug. Soon, Applejack threw the apple away as Apple Bloom caught it, who pulled out a bucket and placed it on her head. They both giggle and laughed as they continued to put rotten apples into the bucket like it was a game. 

"Good catch there, Apple Bloom! Whoo!" Applejack chuckled.

"This is a chore?" Sweetie Belle asked curiously.

"Since we can't sell the bruised apples, we gotta collect them all for the pigs to eat." Applejack answered before kicking another apple into a bucket.

"Whoa, it looks so fun." Kodi said, panting as he let out his tongue and became excited to help out.

"It sure is." I smiled. "So what do you say everyone?"

"We can stay here and help Applejack and Apple Bloom with their chores, that'll make Carrie and Sweetie Belle feel better." Ren suggested, which I nodded in agreement. That sounds like a good idea. 

"It's a lot of work, so we make a game out of it. Wanna try?" Apple Bloom asked, putting the down bucket before hopping into the air and bounced another apple with her flank and have it go inside the bucket.

"Um, okay!" Sweetie Belle nodded with a small smile as Applejack kicked an apple towards her and Carrie. However, the apple landed on Sweetie Belle's horn instead. "Ow!" She said, rubbing her head with her hoof. 

"Wow, that really hurt, huh?" Carrie asked in worried.

"It sure is. My sister, or my 'un-sister' told me once that a Unicorn's Horn are the most sensible part of our body." Sweetie Belle explained. "Though, it's such hard work."

"That's why we do it..." Apple Bloom spoke up as she and Applejack said "Together!"

"Hmph, Rarity never wants to do chores together." Sweetie said with an irritated expression.

"Same goes with Mason." Carrie scoffed, feeling angry again. "He always does the chore without me or anyone else doing it for him or helped him out."

"Don't feel bad girls." Ren assured. "They love you both, and they really didn't mean what they said, right Kay?"

"Right." I nodded with a smile before turning back to the girls. "They both never meant what they said. They're probably back home, regretting what they said."

"Hmph! Yeah right." Carrie said. I sighed and realize that Carrie still wouldn't listen to me. I can see how both Mason and Carrie are related now.

"Well if it makes you girls feel better, we can help you out in Applejack and Apple Bloom's chores." Ren offered, which brightened up their smiles.

"Really?" They both asked in unison.

"Sure, that's what friends do anyway." Ren chuckled with a big grin.

"Yeah! I can help out too!" Kodi added, eager to help out as well.

"Same here." I nodded.

"Yay!" They both shouted with joy.

"Alright, come on everypony." Applejack called us over. "Let's get to work."

"Got it." We nodded before she and Apple Bloom led us over to a large cylinder bucket. She placed several groups of grapes and called Apple Bloom.

"Apple Bloom! You're up!" Apple Bloom raced over to the large cylinder bucket and bounced happily until she caught up with her sister and jumped into the bucket. After, she began pounding her hooves on the grapes. "Hey Ren, Kodi, do you mind if you help out Apple Bloom out as well?"

"Sure." Ren nodded.

"Okay!" Kodi barked. Ren took his shoes off as he and Kodiak began crushing the grapes with Apple Bloom. Applejack walked over and turned a faucet that was attached to the bucket and poured some grape juice down on it.

"You're...making...grape juice?" Sweetie Belle asked in surprised.

"Really?!" Carrie asked in amazement before frowning a bit. "I never done it before, and I don't think my big...I mean, Mason done something like that before."

"Yeah, even Rarity would call the fashion police on me if I got grape juice anywhere near her precious outfits!" Sweetie Belle added.

"Well that's silly!" Apple Bloom exclaimed as she let out a loud stop on the grapes, causing a bucketful of grape juice to splash onto Applejack.

"Apple Bloom!" Applejack turned to her, feeling irritated.

"Please, Applejack, she didn't mean-" Unfortunately, Sweetie Belle and Carrie weren't expecting to see Applejack jumped into the bucket and dove straight towards Apple Bloom, playfully tackling her and began laughing.

"How do you like them grapes, you little whippersnapper?!" Applejack chuckled as she rubbed the grape juice on Apple Bloom. 

"Ahh..." I said with a smile before noticing both Sweetie Belle and Carrie's faces turning into bright grins, and it seems like they're really enjoying seeing those two get along. Soon, I saw Ren getting hit in the face with grape juice as he looked down and playfully glare at Kodi, who was holding a small smudge of grape juice on his paws.

"Heh heh, oops?" Kodi grinned until Ren threw grape juice at his face and before you know it, they started a grape juice fight, along with Applejack and Apple Bloom. 

I turned to the girls and said "You know, we could join with them as well."

"Really?" Sweeite asked incredulous.

"Yep! Come on!" I exclaimed with a bright smile as I took off my shoes, along with Carrie as the three of us joined into the big bucket and began the grape juice fight as well. We began throwing the grape juice at each other, laughing as we kept enjoying it. Carrie got hit in the face by Ren accidentally in the face as she licked it and smiled.

"Mm...delicious!" Carrie said with a big grin, causing us to laugh. You know, I feel like they're starting to feel better.

"Hey, heads up Kay!" Huh? Oof! I was hit in the face with grape juice by Ren, who smiled sheepishly at me as I gave him a smirk and raised brow. Oh well, it was pretty funny anyway.

"Oh, you're so in for it now, Ren!" I said, before making a ball out of grape juice and throwing it on his sweater as we kept doing this for hours and hours until it started to get dark. You know, this was a fun experience! I never done something like this before! Not even with my step-family at all!



Later
Soon after, we went over and gotten ourselves clean up from the grape juice fight. After taking some baths with me and Ren giving the girls some scrubs and such, Applejack decided that we should camp out tonight. We headed to the orchard fields as Ren made a fire while me, Carrie, and Sweetie each carried a bag of marshmallows in our hands. Applejack and Apple Bloom came back with twigs in their mouths before putting it in the fire, making it ablaze.

We then began roasting our marshmallows as Carrie let out a chuckle and said "This is the best day I ever had! Thanks for spending time with me and Sweetie Belle, Ren, Kodi, and Kaede."

"Anytime." I nodded with a smile, blushing a bit.

"Yeah! Like I said before, that's what friends do." Ren reminded her as he was wearing his Pac-man T-shirt since his sweater is being dried off from the grape juice. "Besides, we're glad you girls are having fun."

"Yep! You guys are great!" Sweetie grinned as she and Carrie were done roasting their marshmallows. "Thank you for everything!"

"Your welcome." I chuckled.

"So when can we eat our marshmallows, I'm so starving!" Kodi said, feeling his tummy rumbling.

"Not till they're fully roasted, Kodiak." Ren reminded him with a light chuckle. Suddenly, that's when we heard them.

"Sweetie Belle! There you are!"

"Carrie! Thank goodness I found you!"

Huh? Rarity and Mason? Wow, it kinda took them a while for them to regret for what they've said to their own sisters. I'm guessing its because Mason was waiting for Rarity to finish Carrie's special dress gift. We saw them running through the orchard with relief on their faces, happy to find each of their own sister. But unfortunately, both Carrie and Sweetie Belle wasn't relieved to see either of them.

"Oh hi un-brother." Carrie said, not even looking at her brother.

"And hello un-sister." Sweetie Belle spoke up in full sarcasm. "What are you doing here? Better be careful, you might get some dust on you."

"Uh oh...this can't be good." Kodi muttered, which Ren and I nodded in agreement as we all looked at each other, eager not to get involved with them in this conversation.

"Oh, Sweetie Belle! Carrie! We want to apologize! We are not better off without each of our sisters!" Rarity pleaded.

"Please Carrie! I-I didn't meant to upset you! I was very busy when I asked Rarity to make an important gift! It's very special!" Mason explained with a sad look. 

"It's alright. Me and Sweetie Belle learned that we weren't better off without her a sister or a brother either." Carrie said, looking at her brother with half-lid eyes.

"Yep, spending the day with Applejack, Apple Bloom, Ren, Kodiak, and Kaede made us realize that." Sweetie Belle nodded before looking at her sister.

Rarity and Mason smiled softly at them as Rarity said "Oh, Sweetie, you don't know how happy we are to hear-"

"And that's why I'm adopting Applejack as my big sister!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed, hugging Applejack's leg, who became shocked of this.

"And also, I'm adopting both Ren and Kaede as my new big brother and sister!" Carrie said, hugging me and Ren by the arms as we became shocked to hear that.

"What?!" Mason and Rarity gasped.

"What?!" Applejack and Apple Bloom exclaimed.

"What?!" Me, Ren, and Kodi yelled. They're not serious, are they?!

"C-Carrie, you're joking right?" Ren asked incredulously. "I-I mean, I already have a sister and brother back home! I may think of you and Mason as a brother and sister, but this kinda gone too far!"

"Same here! I-I'm not sure if I even have the skills to be call a big sister to you." I added with a concern expression.

"Sure you do! You care about us and never tell us how 'useless' we are!" Carrie said with a smile.

"And a sister and a brother are someponies who loves and takes care of another sister or brother. You guys and Applejack are the real brothers and sisters!" Sweetie Belle added, giving a quick glare towards Mason and Rarity.

"H-hold on, Sweetie Belle and Carrie! Don't get ahead of yourself here." Applejack said, feeling unsure about this.

"Besides, she's my big sister!" Apple Bloom argued.

"Yes, true, but-"

"And I'm Carrie's older brother!" Mason added, feeling shocked and heartbroken from this. "Carrie! Please, I didn't mean to say those words! It was just an accident!"

"He's right, but-" Applejack was soon cut off as Carrie said "Maybe Applejack, Ren, and Kaede can be your older siblings. Just to teach you two how to be a better brother and sister."

"That I agree Carrie." Sweetie nodded as they both hi-fived each other while Mason and Rarity remained shocked by this revelation. Should I tell them that we're two years younger than Mason?

"But, we don't need lessons on how to be a good sister and brother!" Rarity exclaimed as she got to her knees and looked at Sweetie Belle with a pleading look and continued "I-I promise! Listen! I'll show you how to cook my favorite quiche! Or, or, I'll show you the proper way to beautify your mane. Won't that be fun? Hm?"

"And Carrie! I swear that I'm telling the truth! I never meant to hurt your feelings! Please!" Mason begged, darkened his face.

"Hm! You want us to go home with you two, so we can do what you guys wanna do?" Sweetie asked, feeling angry and annoyed by this.

"Uhh....yes?" Bad answer Rarity.

"Just forget it!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed before storming off. "Come on Carrie! Let's go!"

"..." Carrie remained silent as she watched her brother with a sad look, seeing how serious he was before she turned back and followed Sweetie Belle. I saw a tear forming Mason's face, causing us to feel bad for them. 

"Mason..." I muttered, feeling bad for them.

"Well, that apology went swimmingly." Rarity sighed sadly until Mason began to walk away. "Mason darling, where are-"

"Just...leave me alone for a bit." Mason walked away, causing us to feel heartache just by seeing him like this. Poor Mason, he didn't mean to upset Carrie by saying all those mean stuff earlier and now he's feeling the consequences....

"Come on, let's go after Mason!" I said, much to Ren's surprise.

"What?" Ren asked until I grabbed his hand and dragged him, following after Mason while Kodi, Apple Bloom, Rarity, and Applejack remained behind. We soon arrived to a hill top of the apple farm, finding Mason leaning against a tree with a darkened look on his face.

"Mason." I called him, catching him by surprise.

"Oh, Kaede, Ren, didn't see you two there..." Mason sighed before looking away. "I thought I told you guys that I want to be left alone..."

"Mason, we need to talk to you!" I pleaded. "I know how you feel!"

"Same here." Ren nodded with a serious look on his face, but he never looked back. "Look, Carrie never meant those words to you! She does care for you!"

"But she chose you guys over me. After everything I've done for her and protected her when mom and dad left, this is what I deserve." Mason sighed as he held over his bamboo pole. "I feel like such a useless brother..."

"No you're not! Carrie really does love you!" I exclaimed, surprising him and Ren. "All she ever wanted was your attention and prove that she could be helpful just like you! You always protected her, and helped everyone out! She wanted to be just like you!"

"R-really?" Mason asked, looking over us with a shocked expression before letting out a tear. "She...wanted to be like me?"

"Yeah, from what I've seen when we spend with her all day, she just wanted attention, love, and to feel useful to people." Ren added with a grin. "I know she does. Trust us, we know this by experience. You're not the only one who has siblings, you know?"

Mason looked at us for a smile until he let out a soft smile. "Yeah, you're right. Thank you guys."

"Anytime!" Me and Ren said, nodded to him. He soon got up and put his bamboo pole around his back and asked "So how can I make my sister forgive me?"

"Well there is this event where siblings compete in events to strengthen their bonds." I said, remembering the Sisterhooves Social event Apple Bloom and Applejack talked about.

"Really?" Mason asked, brightening his expression.

"Problem is...it's for only girls." Ren smiled sheepishly while rubbing his head bashfully.

"Great..." Mason sighed while crossing his arms. "Now how am I going to prove to Carrie that I do care for her."

"I can help." We turned around to see Applejack, Rarity, Apple Bloom, and Kodi walking towards us, with the husky having marshmallows in his mouth. "I'll talk with my Granny Smith about making an exception for you on the Sisterhooves Social event. After all, this event is the only way in order to make you two reconnect with your siblings."

"Applejack speaks the truth, darling." Rarity nodded, walking towards Mason with a soft smile. "I don't care how uncouth it is! If this is the only way on how to reconcile with Sweetie Belle and Carrie, this is our chance Mason!"

"Rarity..." Mason muttered before smiling softly. "Alright, I'll do it."

"That's great to hear!" Applejack nodded as Ren turned to her and said "Thanks Applejack."

"Nah, don't mention it. Oh, and Mason, Rarity, just a little word of advice for you two to keep in mind." Applejack said, gaining their attention. "Don't let their words get to ya. Being brothers and sisters is like...apple pie. You can have amazing apples, and you can have a wonderfully crispy crust, but only together yo can have a perfect apple pie."

"But apart, all we are is just a pile of mush and some crumbly dry mess." Rarity said, figuring out what Applejack meant.d

"Mmm....I like apple pie." Kodi said, drooling in thought of it.

"I understand, thank you for your words of wisdom, Applejack." Mason thanked her, which she tilt her hat in honor of him. "And don't worry, we know what we need to do."

"Exactly!" Rarity nodded with a determined look.

"It might sound risky, but I'm sure I know how we can help out." I said with a smirk.

"Same here! I don't want you guys and your sisters to stay mad at each other forever! I want to help too!" Ren said, determined to help out as well. 

"Ren...Kaede...everyone..." Mason soon smiled happily at us as he said "Thank you all."

"Now gather around everypony, I got a plan." Applejack said with a smirk as we formed a circle, as we began to hear her out. I don't want Carrie and Sweetie Belle on hating both Rarity and Mason on forever! This is our only chance in order to get them to like each other again. I know we can do this!



The Next Day
This it, today was the annual event of the Sisterhooves Social to begin. Apparently, Me, Kodi and Ren woke up very early and brought Carrie to the event as Mason and Rarity were preparing for the plan we made last night. We encountered both Applejack and Apple Bloom on the way to the Sisterhooves Social event. We watched over some sisters going through a pie eating contest with a pair of ponies wearing blue handkerchiefs shot their hooves as soon as they finished eating their pie. The referee walked over and handed them a ribbon, causing them to grin happily with apple pie crumbs on their faces.

"So tell me again why we're wearing these handkerchiefs?" Kodi wondered, seeing that he's wearing a red handkerchief. 

"Like Applejack said, we need these handkerchiefs in order to identify our team members." Ren explained. 

"Yeah, after all, that is part of the plan." I whispered to him, reminding him on what we're supposed to do in the race.

"Got it." Ren nodded.

"Well...I guess it's a good thing Rarity nor Mason aren't here." Sweetie Belle commented as we passed by more fun filled events as she scoffed "Do I see 'uncouth' written all over this contest?"

"Well...maybe a little." Carrie said sadly. Huh? Is Carrie having doubts on what happened yesterday?

We all looked at each other with concern as Apple Bloom decided to change the subject by saying "Whoa, look at the size at that pig!" 

She pointed towards some pigs rolling on the mud with their blue ribbons attached to them. Ahh, they are so cute!

He sure is a cutie." Applejack added with a grin.

"Yeah." Ren nodded in agreement while Sweetie Belle became irritated and stated "That's the last word Rarity would use."

She then began mimicking her and said "Oh my, what a repulsive monstrosity! This thing needs a  head to toe makeover!"

"Yeah...but Mason wouldn't mind calling it cute..." Carrie muttered, glancing away. Ooh, poor Carrie.

We looked at each other in worried, wondering what to do with them until we heard some horns blowing. "Oh! It's almost time!" Applejack exclaimed as we began to walk towards the event while Sweetie Belle and Carrie remained standing still.

"You guys go on ahead..." Carrie said sadly.

"Yeah...we can't even do these events without a sister and Carrie doesn't even have a sister." Sweetie Belle added, showing some tears. 

"Well don't worry!" Ren smirked as he took off his red scarf and handed it to Carrie and Applejack did the same thing as she wrapped a green scarf around Sweetie Belle's neck. "Because you are joining in on this rest with Kaede! Right Kay?"

"Right!" I nodded with a smile as Carrie and Sweetie Belle became overjoyed that we were gonna participate with them.

"T-thank you!" Carrie and Sweetie Belle exclaimed, hugging us as Apple Bloom look at Sweetie Belle with a glare and said "Just. One. Day."

She then smiled, but Sweetie Belle didn't mind as she continued to hug Applejack while Carrie hugged me and Ren.

"Thank you so much Ren and Kaede! You two are great!" Carrie thanked with a smile.

"Anytime Carrie." Ren chuckled before winking at me, knowing that phase one is complete. Now to move on phase two...

Suddenly, we heard a sound coming out of a megaphone as we turned around, seeing the crowd joining in as a green old pony who I believed is Applejack's grandmother, Granny Smith began to make the announcement.

"Is this thing on?" Granny Smith wondered aloud through the megaphone. She accidentally rotated the megaphone backwards and placed her ear towards the front. "Ehh...I don't think this thing is on."

She then turned to us and said "Hello!" through the megaphone, but it wasn't even on.

Big Mac came over to her side and whispered through her ear, pointing at the megaphone, which made her widened her eyes.

"What is the...oh. You have to say so. Confangled modern doohickeys." Granny Smith said. Huh, guess she hasn't gotten used to them? I'm guessing she must've gone through some age where technology were barely known here. Though, I'm curious...how old is she? Not that I'm being rude or something.

She then raised her hoof from her rocking chair and smacked the megaphone, causing it to twirl around until it switched to the right position. "Now, the event you've all been waiting for! The Sister Soci...The Socialhoof...Oh dabnabbit, you know, the big race! We have five teams this year for the event! So you all head on up to the finish line, you hear?" 

Big Mac whispered something to her ear before Granny Smith said "Eh? The start line!....That what I said." 

"That's us!" Sweetie Belle whispered excitedly towards Applejack.

"Yeah! Same here!" Carrie said with an excited grin before turning to Ren with a sad and apologetic smile. "Sorry if you can't join in on the fun, Ren. This is for girls after all."

"Nah, it's okay. Applejack was planning on making an exception, but Granny Smith said no." Ren shrugged before winking towards me, which I smiled and nod.

"Okay, but at least we can race together Kaede!" Carrie smiled happily, as I chuckled and said "Same here Carrie! Now come on, let's get to the starting line."

Carrie nodded as we headed over to the starting line with Ren and Kodiak standing in the sidelines with the other ponies who came watching the events. Me and Carrie stood next to Applejack and Rarity as the former said "Good luck out there!"

"You too Applejack!" I nodded with a determined look as Apple Bloom came and pointed her hoof on Sweetie Belle's flank and said "One. Day. Okay?"

"Got it." Sweetie Belle nodded, brightening Apple Bloom's smile as she took her leave. Soon after, we all became tense and waited for the horn begin. Just remember Kaede, the plan. You just gotta stay in the mud and wait for Mason and Rarity to switch places with me and Applejack.

"And may the best sisters win!" Granny Smith announced as she continued rocking her chair. "On your marks...get set..." As we and the others sisters readied ourselves, Granny Smith moved too far on her rocking chair and accidentally poked her eye with the megaphone. Ooh, that's gotta hurt, right? "GOOOO!"

We immediately started off in a jog. As the others jumped over the mud, both Carrie and Sweetie Belle jumped over cheerfully while me and Applejack looked at each other and nodded before jumping, but not over the mud, but into the mud. Eww, I'm all covered in mud. I just hope I'll be able to wash it off later.

"So...is phase two complete?" Huh? Oh right, that was Mason and Rarity as we were now inside a magic bubble with them, which Rarity made in order not to be covered in the mud...yet. 

"Yeah, it sure is." Applejack nodded, answering Mason's question as she took off her hat and scarf, as I took off my red scarf as well and handed it to both Mason and Rarity. "Just remember, use my hat to cover your horn and cover your bodies with mud, that way they won't find out it's you two."

"Got it." Mason nodded.

"And hurry before Carrie and Sweetie Belle wonders what happened to us." I added, reminding them that we don't got enough time left.

"Of course! Thank you!" Rarity smiled as hugged me and Applejack, but then was covered with mud. 

"Please relax Rarity, think of it as a mud bath." Mason assured with a soft grin.

"Y-you're right! Just stay focus Rarity! If this means getting our sisters to like us again, then we should do this, no questions ask." Rarity said to herself before forcing a big smile. "Wish us luck."

"Okay." I nodded before she released her magic bubble, covering herself and Mason with mud before leaping out, pretending to be us. Me and Applejack peeked out of the mud and saw Carrie and Sweetie Belle looking at 'us' with worried looks as 'we' exited out of the mud pit.

"Are you two okay?! You had us worried!" Carrie asked in worried as Mason, pretending to be me, nodded with a grin.

"Great! Come on! Let's keep going!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed as the two teams began catching up with the other teams.

I then glanced at Applejack and asked "So now what?"

"Don't you worry, just wait a moment." Applejack assured as we kept peeking out of the mud pit, watching the four siblings racing out each of the other sisters. I'm surprise that Carrie hasn't found out that the one she's racing with is actually Mason, covered by mud. Oh well, I guess she's too young to even found out herself.

We kept watching the race, and I gotta say, they're really good and some of the events we're the same things we were doing yesterday. The grape juice stomping, the apple catching, and such. Wow, I'm not sure if what we're doing yesterday where either chores or practicing. 

Soon after completing the last leg, they began racing each other, along with another pair of sisters as they continued to run and jumped over a track ledge and took a big leap to the finish line, causing a large dust cloud to appear. It took a few seconds as we saw Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Carrie, and Mason didn't crossed the finish line as they were a few feet away from it, but the other pair of sisters did as they were awarded with a blue ribbon and were carried off by the crowd, congratulating them on their win.

"Ooh, so close!" Apple Bloom exclaimed with a smile.

"You almost won!" Kodi added.

"But at least you all had fun." Ren shrugged with a grin.

"Yeah! We did had fun!" Carrie said happily as she hugged Mason and said "You were amazing Kaede! I don't even care that we didn't win! I had so much fun!"

"Yep! Same here Applejack! Thank you for everything!" Sweetie Belle excitedly hugged Rarity, smiling so happily at her as Rarity returned the favor by hugging her back. Ahh, I feel so happy that they're started to like each other again...yet.

Soon, I noticed Carrie forming a sad look, which Ren noticed.

"Hey, what's wrong Carrie?" Ren asked curiously and worried.

"Nothing, but...it would've been more fun if Mason was here." Carrie said sadly. "I wanted to apologize to him for everything what I said yesterday. He's my big brother and I want to apologize to him and thank him for taking care of me all those years. I wished...I can see him again."

"Actually, you can." Rarity said with a smirk as she took off the hat, revealing her white horn, shocking the young girls.

"R-Rarity?!" 

"Mason?!" Sweetie Belle and Carrie gasped as they both shook off the mud off their bodies. Wow, I don't know how they gotten all the mud off their bodies, but they got skills.

"But I don't understand, if you're here, then where's Kaede and Applejack?" Carrie wondered as we both got out of the mud pit and shook ourselves clean.

"We were inside of the mud pit the entire time." I explained with a chuckle.

"Yep! We switched places over at the very first mudhole." Applejack added as Carrie and Sweetie Belle looked at their older siblings with shocked expressions.

"So...we did everything together?" Sweetie Belle asked, surprised to hear this.

"That we did, little sister." Rarity nodded with a smirk. "Well, except for the start line."

"But you guys finished together!" Kodi said, barking happily.

"So...you all were in on it?" Carrie asked, which we nodded. "And you did this...for us?"

"Yes sis, we did it for all of us." Mason said, benting down to Carrie's height. "I'm sorry if I yelled at you. It wasn't nice for someone like me to say that to you. I was very busy with Rarity because she was making you a special birthday gift for you."

"Birthday gift?" Carrie wondered before gasping in realization. "No way! I totally forgot about my birthday!"

"Yeah, I learned about the other night when Jamie was getting used to this place and began having reading sessions with Twilight. I wanted to give you the perfect gift, so that's why I asked Rarity to make a perfect dress for you." Mason smiled, causing Carrie to look at him with amazement.

"So that's why you were doing Rarity's chores while Kaede went and did Rarity's new clotheslines! So that you can have her make my gift, right?" 

Mason nodded at his sister's question and replied "Yes, sorry for everything. For yelling at you and not understanding your feelings."

"It's alright Mas...I mean, big brother. I know!" Carrie giggled as she and Mason embraced in a hug, causing us to go "Aww" on them. Carrie then looked back at us and said "You guys can get into the hug as well!"

"Us?" I asked in surprise.

"Yeah! I mean, like I said before, you and Ren are like brother and sisters to me!" Carrie chuckled, surprising us all. She really does think of us as her older brother and sister, not because she chose us when she was angry with Mason, but also because after spending some time with her, she thinks of us as family.

"Thanks Carrie! T-that's really an honor to be called your older brother." Ren chuckled.

"Yeah, same here." I smiled as we came over and hugged them while Rarity and Sweetie Belle hugged each other, happy that their bond was re-connected. We then ended our hug as I said "And I'm proud to call you my little sister."

"Thanks Kay!" Carrie giggled as Mason smiled and looked at us and said "And I'm happy to call you guys my family."

"Ahh, thanks Mason. That really means so much." Ren chuckled with a big grin as Mason got up and crossed with his arms with a smug look and said "Though, I am two years older than you, which makes you the little energetic brother."

"He got you there, Ren." Kodi chuckled, causing Ren to smile sheepishly and sweat-drop a little.

"Yeah, he sure did..." Ren admitted, rubbing his head bashfully.

"Well now that it's all settle, I think we need to celebrate!" Applejack decided, which we all agreed.

"That I agree Applejack darling." Rarity nodded.

"Okay, so where?" Sweetie Belle asked curiously with a soft grin.

"The spa, of course." Rarity answered, causing us all to laugh. Oh, Rarity... "No, I-I-I'm serious."

"Right..." I muttered, sweat-dropping. Oh well, guess old habits are too hard to give up on anyway.



Later
Soon after going to the Ponyville Spa, which I gotta admit it was the most relaxing thing I've ever gone to. I think I'm gonna make it my favorite place all over this town, but anyway, we headed back to the Carousel Boutique as Rarity showed Carrie her new dress, and it was like a princess's dress, it was pink with hearts all over it with a sapphire blue gems as a necklace. Carrie fell in love with it and thanked her brother for thinking about a great gift as that. Though, Mason told her that she should thank Rarity for making such a wonderful gift for her, which Carrie thanked by the way.

After receiving her birthday gift, Mason helped Carrie with braiding her hair while Rarity did the same with Sweetie Belle and soon after, we were greeted by Spike, who apparently wanted to see us how we're doing and also asking Rarity for some assistance. So, we all decided that maybe we should send another letter to Princess Celestia, telling her how much closer we are.

"So what should we write to the Princess?" Kodi wondered.

"I'll start!" Sweetie Belle offered as she and Carrie looked at the mirror, seeing how their hair looks. Soon, Sweetie Belle cleared her throat and began speaking.

"Having a sister or brother is just about the bestest thing in the world. But it sure isn't easy." Sweetie Belle stated as Rarity went up next.

"I agree that being brothers or sisters is a wonderful thing, but it takes teamwork."

"Sometimes it's about compromising. Sometimes it's about accepting each other's differences." Mason said, ruffling his sister's hair a bit, which made her giggle.

"But mostly, it's about having fun together."  Carrie finished the letter as Rarity said "Even if it means getting your hooves a little bit dirty."

"A lot dirty." Sweetie Belle snickered.

"A little bit dirty." Rarity argued.

"A lot dirty."

"A little bit dirty!"

"A lo-"

"Whoa whoa whoa!" Spike stopped the sisters from arguing as he exclaimed "How about 'a medium amount of dirty, not too little, not too much, just right'?"

"Deal!" They both nodded and hugged each other, causing us to smile at them. It's good to finally see them bonding again, that's very nice of them.

Soon after Spike send the letter and took his leave, Carrie immediately decided to put it on and five minutes later, came out looking so beautiful for such a young girl.

"So...how do I look?" Carrie asked, feeling a little shy.

"You look awesome!" Ren clapped.

"Yeah! Like a real princess!" Kodi agreed as he let out a bark.

"It's a masterpiece." I commented.

"Amazing..." Mason said with a grin.

"Beautiful! I love it!" Rarity smiled in delight. "This was the best present I could ever make!"

"Thank you all! You too big brother!" Carrie immediately hugged both Rarity and Mason, catching them by surprise.

"Why...thank you Carrie." Mason smiled.

"You know, you two really did work together in order to get them to bond with you guys again." I stated. "Seeing you two this close makes me think you're a couple."

"Wait, Rarity and Mason are a couple?!" Kodi gasped, completely shocking Rarity and Mason.

"What?!" They both exclaimed. "No way! We're not a couple! We're just friends!"

They both looked at each other in shock, realizing that they just said the same thing together, causing them to look away and blushing.

"I think that blushing says otherwise." Ren chuckled with a grin.

"Wow! Imagine them dating each other! Wouldn't that be romantic?" Sweetie Belle teased as she nudged Carrie, who giggled and nodded in agreement.

"I hear wedding bells ringing." Carrie added, furthering embarrassing their older siblings. I laughed upon seeing Carrie and Sweetie Belle just talking about both Mason and Rarity dating each other. Wow, wouldn't that be a surprise? Actually, Ren and Fluttershy are dating each other so I guess anything's possibility. But you know, hearing Carrie calling me her big sis is really nice. But...can I really big a good sister to her? I was treated miserably by my own step-sisters back in the past...No, of course I can! No need to feel worried! I'm unlike my sisters, I'm someone who you can rely on! I promise that I'll be the best sisters with Carrie, that I'm sure! I don't know if my step-family are wondering if I'm gone, but it doesn't matter...because I have a new family here in Equestria, and it's Ren and the others.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 35 - May The Best Pet Win! Kodiak's Growth Spurt!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Ren..."

Ugh...what?

"Ren!"

"Huh?" What the? Ah! What the heck? Who just licked me in my sleep?! I immediately raise my head out of my pillow and looked around, wondering who licked me? It was probably Kodiak, but then again, it didn't sound like him. What happened to little cute kid's voice?

"Kodi? OOF!" And somebody just stepped on my groin, that just hurts...very much. "Oww..."

"Heh heh, sorry Ren." Huh? I looked up as I widened my eyes in shock, seeing who it was.

"K-Kodiak..." I muttered in shock. It was Kodiak, but not as a small pup, but a little bigger than well like he was already now a big dog. He wasn't that small cute puppy, so has he hit puberty already?!

"What? Surprise?" Kodi smirked. "Yeah, even I was surprise when I felt different this morning and when I looked at myself in the mirror."

"No way...looks like you hit your growth spurt, eh?" I chuckled nervously.

"Yep! Even my voice changed!" Kodi barked happily before repeatedly licking my face. "I'm so happy to finally grow a bit! I'm probably the same height as your legs!"

"Okay boy! Just calm down!" I laughed, getting ticklish from all his licking.

“Sorry Ren.” Kodi apologized with a light chuckle. “Come on! I bet the others will be joyed to see me like this!”

Kodi jumped off my bed and immediately headed out to the living room while I grinned softly at him. Well I think they’re gonna be more than surprise to know what happened to you.



Later
Yep, I stand corrected. The moment we came to the living room and the dining hall, everyone had different reactions. Kaede and Carrie were in awe over the bigger Kodiak, Jamie jaw-dropped upon seeing him while Mason looked over at him with a soft smile. I could see it through that scarf of his.

“Aww, he’s so cute!” Carrie cooed, scratching Kodi underneath the chin. 

“Ah yeah, that’s the spot! Yeah…” Kodi sighed happily while he wagged his tail.

“Yeah, I’m surprised that he’s finally outgrown himself.” Kaede said with a happy grin.

“W-well it makes sense for a dog to grow up, but I never seen one in real life!” Jamie exclaimed. 

“Yeah, I was even surprised to see him a little taller, along with his new voice.” I admitted, rubbing my head bashfully. 

“Well dogs do grow faster than us humans.” Mason said as he was focusing on making some omelettes for us. “Or in his case, talking dogs.”

“Yeah, seems so.” I shrugged with a grin before asking “But man, for him to grow like this must mean an entire year has past, right?”

“Well according to his height…” Jamie spoke up, rubbing his chin while looking at Kodi. “Dogs that has that height has to be ten months old in dog years. In other words, he should probably be at least 12 or 13 years old.”

“Whoa really, that’s amazing.” I said in surprised. So after my first few weeks of being here in Equestria, he must’ve been at least 2 months old or something. I don’t know, he never told me his age.

“Thanks you guys.” Kodi thanked as he nuzzled Carrie while Mason’s little squirrel friends looked at him curiously, amazed to see Kodi this way. “You know, I can’t wait for the others to see me like this. We should see them right now!”

“I see why not.” I nodded before I felt my stomach rumbling. “But first, let’s eat.”

“Yeah, I haven’t had a decent meal for a while.” Jamie said. “Haven’t been eating that much while I finished studying that book last week.”

“Haven’t been eating that much?!” Kaede gasped. “Weren’t you even starving at all?!”

“A little, but I was fine.” Jamie assured with a nervous grin. “So please calm down everyone. Anyway, M-Mason, do you mind if we have our breakfast please?”

“Yes Jamie.” Mason nodded as he finally finished making those omelettes for us and handed it to us. We soon enjoyed eating our meals, and as always, tasted so good. Even Mason made some special dog kibble for him, which he happily accepted. After we finished eating our breakfast and went to clean the dining Hall’s table, we heard a knock on the door as Carrie went over to opened it, revealing to be our friends.

“Hey everypony!” Carrie greeted them.

“HI Carrie.” Fluttershy chuckled, ruffling her hair a bit. “I was wondering if Ren was here.”

“Here I am, girls.” I said, walking towards the door with Kodi next to me. “Hey!”

“Hey Ren, good morning.” Twilight smiled as Owlicious was sitting on her head before she noticed Kodi’s…growth spurt. “What the? K-Kodiak?!”

“Yeah?” Kodi called, not knowing why Twilight and the others were shocked to see him like that.

“Hmm….you look different….” Pinkie said as I noticed Gummy biting onto Pinkie’s tail. Huh, come to think of it…Applejack brought a dog of her own while Rarity brought Opal, but it’s a good thing that Kodi hasn’t noticed because of if he did, he’ll end up chasing her. “Did your fur change?”

Kodi looked over himself, seeing that he had the same light red fur on his body. “No.” Kodi shook his head.

“You sure?” Pinkie asked, feeling suspicious of him.

“Uh, Pinkie Pie.” Applejack looked at her with a deadpan expression. “Kodiak just hit a growth spurt.”

“Oooh….” Pinkie said, realizing the difference now before she beamed at that. “That’s party-tastic! Oh Kodiak, you grow up!”

“Well it seems like old Kodiak is now a big dog.” Rarity chuckled, which made Kodi chuckle.

“Ahh, thanks.” Kodi blushed a bit.

“Yeah…” I rubbed my head bashfully before turning to Fluttershy. “Seems like you were right about him getting bigger, eh?”

“Yeah, but he only reached his teenage years.” Fluttershy explained with a soft smile. “You’ll really have to prepared yourself for his adult years.”

“Oh don’t worry, it won’t be that bad, right Ren?” Kodi looked at me with a smile, which I nodded in agreement and said “Exactly boy.”

“Ah, Twilight and co.” Jamie greeted her as he, Mason, and Kaede came over with smiles on their faces. “What brings you all here? Along with your…pets.”

“Oh, today’s the Pony Pet Playdate. It’s being held at the Ponyville park.” Fluttershy explained before showing us the basket around her hoof, revealing Angel. “I brought Angel with me for the playdate.”

“Ahh…” Carrie cooed at Angel, who made a smug grin on his face. Oh please…

“Yep, I even brought Winona with me.” Applejack introduced as Winona let out a bark before Kodi walked over and barked back at her. Soon after, they both started playing around outside, much to our joy. “Heh, I guess Winona is taking a liking towards Kodiak, eh?”

“Yeah, though I never knew you had a dog.” I said, feeling a little surprised by that.

“She’s our guard dog, and she helps out around Sweet Apple Acres whenever we need her.” Applejack explained. “You don’t see her quite often around our home.”

“Yes, though I’m glad Kodi hasn’t Opal because of their little…rivalry.” Rarity said with worried as she had her little pet cat in her bag. Good thing Kodiak will be busy having fun with his new friend.

“Anyway, we were wondering if you guys like to come with us.” Twilight offered.

“I’ll be glad to go to this Pet Playdate.” Mason smiled.

“Me too.” I nodded in agreement, eager to try it out. Besides, this new and older Kodiak would enjoy himself with playing with other animals. Though he may have met some of them, but I’m sure he’ll get along with them just fine.

“But…I don’t have a pet.” Carrie said sadly.

“Same here.” Kaede agreed.

“Sorry, I never had one before either.” Jamie added. “Although, I read a book about how to raise different kind of pets, so I know how to raise any type of animal but never own one.”

“That’s okay Jamie, we can share Owlicious together.” Twilight offered, showing Owlicious to him.

“Hoo!” Owlicious looked at Jamie, who smiled back at the owl. 

“Well I see why not.” Jamie said. “Okay, I-I’ll share Owlicious with you T-Twilight.”

“Anytime Jamie.” Twilight smiled back at him.

“And if you want Carrie, we can share both Maddy and Nate.” Mason offered, brightening up Carrie’s mood.

“Okay!” Carrie agreed.

“And we can share too Kaede.” I offered, but she shook her head and said “No thanks Ren, I…think I’ll be alright without one. I’ll just watch you guys have fun, that’s all.”

I simply looked at her with worried, hearing that from her. She may sound okay, but I can feel sadness from her. It must feel terrible for her not to get a pet. Hmm…

“O-okay.” I shrugged with a soft and worried grin before noticing that we’re missing one more pony. “Hey, where’s Dash? I don’t see her with you girls.”

“Oh…” Twilight and the other girls looked at each other with worried and looking sheepish at the same time. “About that…Rainbow Dash didn’t want to come because she doesn’t have a pet.”

“Hm? So she doesn’t have one, huh?” Mason rubbed his chin.

“Yes, and we were thinking on inviting her over but…” Fluttershy couldn’t find the right words to explain this, but that’s when Rarity chimed in and said “But she rather take her afternoon beauty sleep than spending time for the Ponyville Pet Playdate.”

“Yeah, besides, I think she wouldn’t be missing out on this.” Applejack added.

“Well, that yes.” Fluttershy nodded.

“Oh, well that’s sad.” Jamie said, feeling bad for Rainbow Dash. So even Dash doesn’t have a pet either? That’s sad as well. First Kaede, now Rainbow Dash. They must feel terrible for not having pets, right?

“Well either way, you guys should go on.” Kaede offered with a sad smile. “I-I mean, you wouldn’t want to miss it, right?”

“Come on Kay, you should come too. Like I said before, you can share with me by playing with Kodi.” I stated with a smile, surprising her. 

“W-well…I see why not. Alright, let’s go.” Kaede smiled sheepishly while Twilight smiled and said “Alright everypony. Let’s head over to the Ponyville Park.”

We all nodded in agreement before we headed over to the town’s park, and as we progressed through there, Kodi and the other animals were feeling energetic as they ran ahead of us, heading into the park before us. Soon after we arrived to some part of the Ponyville’s park and walked over a hill, we started chatting with each other while our animals began playing tag with Opal, or more like chase because when Kodi found out Opal was here, he couldn’t resist the urge to chase her since it seems to be a habit between a cat and a dog to fight with each other like this. 

“I guess they’re getting along, in their own way I guess.” Jamie said, raising a brow to see them chase Opal around, mostly Kodi. 

“Well, it’s in their nature to act wild, but then again, they’re sure are cute, aren’t they?” Mason smiled softly at them.

“Yeah, they’re sure are…” Kaede muttered, watching them playing around until Opal hopped onto a tree. That’s when I noticed Rainbow Dash up there, who was busy taking a nap since she was snuggling against a pillow in her hooves.

“Huh? Hey, is that Dash?” I called, causing the others to look up to see her as well.

“Oh yeah, it is her. Seems like Rarity wasn’t kidding about her sleeping in the afternoon.” Mason said, looking over at her.

“Yeah, but we don’t mind if she doesn’t want to join in, despite us asking many times for her to come with us and share one of our pets with us.” Applejack rolled her eyes before noticing Winona playing around with Kodi by rough housing each other. “Heh, seems like old Winona and Kodi became fast friends, eh?”

“Yeah, seems so.” I smirked. Guess Kodi is finally enjoying himself with the other pets. That’s what I like to say. We soon began playing with our pets like Pinkie allowed Gummy to chew on her hoof before he jumped and clenched on to her forehead with his gums and then moved onto her tail, causing her to giggle.

Owlicious had flown over to Twilight and Jamie while Applejack threw a stick at Winona to go and fetch. Fluttershy, Angel, Kodi, and me ran with each other, enjoying the breeze of the wind. Mason and Carrie were feeding Nate and Maddy some nuts they found around the ground. You know, I feel pretty happy hanging out with all of our friends, well almost. Kaede doesn’t have a pet along with Dash. It just not fun to leave them out on the fun.

“Hey guys…” Huh? We all looked over to the tree, seeing Rainbow Dash stretched her back a little before looking down at us. “Uhh…what’s going on?”

“Oh! Our sincerest apologies, Rainbow Dash, if our pets were bothering you.” Rarity apologized before looking over at Opal with a stern look. “Say you’re sorry, Opal.”

Opal replied by hissing at her. “She’s…sorry.”

“That wasn’t a sorry. That was more like a threat.” Mason stated. 

“Yeah, that did sound like one.” Jamie agreed.

“Anyway, what are you all doing out here?” Rainbow asked curiously.

“We’re here for a Pony Pet Playdate!” Kodi explained, which made Dash surprised to see him like this.

“Whoa! What happened to you?!” Rainbow gasped as she flew down from the tree and looked around his body. “I don’t remember you being this big!”

“Right…I kinda hit my growth spurt.” Kodi replied before licking Rainbow’s face, much to her chagrin. 

“Ew!” She tried to wipe away the slobber from his spit.

“But I’m just happy that your surprised and excited to see me like this!” Kodi exclaimed, wagging his tail in excitement as Rainbow managed to get all the slobber off her face.

“Yeah, sure it is.” Rainbow muttered, rolling her eyes while crossing her hooves before asking “So this Pony Pet Playdate…what’s that?”

“Oh, it’s a special playdate where everyone enjoys themselves with their pets while the pets get to know each other.” Jamie explained before adding “Or so I was told by Twilight and the others.”

“Yep!” Applejack nodded in agreement. “Why, we always round up our critters for a regular ol’ Pony Pet Playdate in this park.” Applejack ran past Rainbow and threw another stick for Winona.

“Uh…you do?” Rainbow questioned.

“Same time every week.”

“We even came over to enjoy the playdate so our animal friends could spend time with each other.” Carrie replied. “Oh, but Kaede, Jamie, and I don’t have pets so we’re sharing some of our friends’ and my big brother’s.”

“Yeah, but I rather watched them over than playing since I don’t have a pet and I didn’t want to share, that’s all.” Kaede said, feeling a little down but held her smile.

“Though I’m surprise you didn’t know that, but it makes sense I guess.” I shrugged, confusing Dash.

“What the hay you talking about, Ren?” Rainbow asked.

“Well…” Twilight spoke up before giving me a glare, causing me to smile sheepishly. Did I say something wrong? “What Ren is trying to say is that we were initially planned on inviting you Rainbow, but well-”

“We were totally gonna invite you, Rainbow, then Twilight remembered that you don’t even have a pet, and Rarity remembered that you really like to take naps in the afternoon, so Applejack figured you wouldn’t be missing out on anything away, and we told Renny and the others about you not owning a pet while Fluttershy and I nodded our heads like this.” Pinkie explained everything to her while grabbing her and Fluttershy’s head, imitating a nod.

“You didn’t have to tell her everything we were talking about earlier.” I said with concern.

“What? I was just saying.” Pinkie shrugged.

“Okay, but how did you speak like that without loosing a breath?!” Jamie gasped, immediately pushing me aside with his journal in his hands.

“It’s Pinkie Pie, that’s all you need to know or so I heard.” Mason said.

“Exactly!” Pinkie nodded.

“Oh, but that doesn’t make any sense!” Jamie complained. Since when did anything around here makes sense?

“Oh, please don’t be mad at us.” Fluttershy pleaded.

“Oh, I’m not bad. You all are right. Not much point of a Pony Pet Playdate for me if I’m a pony without a pet, right?” Rainbow asked.

“Eeexactly. So, if now you’ll excuse us…”  Applejack threw another stick for Winona to fetch and bring back while the rest of us continued to join with their pets. Me and Kodi played around a bit till we noticed how sad look Rainbow Dash was acting, along with Kaede. 

“Hey Kaede, Dash.” I called for them, gaining their attention. “Why not you both share with Kodiak? That way you both don’t have to feel out.”

“F-feel out?” Kaede sputtered. “Come on Ren, you don’t have to do this for me.”

“But I want everyone to enjoy themselves, and I hate seeing people that way. So why not?”

“Yeah! I don’t mind playing around with you guys.” Kodi smiled.

“Nah, I’m good.” Dash waved her hoof while trying to get back to her nap.

“Well…” Kaede looked down for a minute before looking at me with a grin. “Maybe I can try and find my own pet. That way I don’t need to feel left out.”

“Really?!” Suddenly, I was pushover by Fluttershy as she overheard what Kaede said. “Y-you really want a pet, Kaede?!”

“Yeah?” Kaede nodded, feeling surprised to see her act like that. I soon got up before dusting myself off, looking at the two with a smile. Wow, I never seen Fluttershy act like that way before.

“Amazing! That’s wonderful to hear!” Fluttershy exclaimed.

“Wow, I never seen her act like that before.” Kodi whispered to me, which I replied “Yeah, but it makes sense since she does love animals and all that.”

“Hey, now wait a minute!” Rainbow flew down between us as she exclaimed “Just because I don’t have a pet now doesn’t mean I never want a pet!”

“Rainbow Dash! Y-you…oh really? You really want a pet?! Really?” Fluttershy asked, flying around Rainbow energetically. “Cause I’ve go so many wonderful choices at my house.” She soon began dragging Dash around as she flew and continued “Oh, and I know that you and Kaede will love them, and they’ll love you, oh!”

“Wow, you’re really that excited for us to receive our first pets, eh?” Kaede chuckled with a soft grin.

“Yes! And you’ll be best friends forever and ever! Oh!” Fluttershy exclaimed and began flying out of the park.

“Hey wait! Where you going?!” I exclaimed, running off with her along with Kodi, Rainbow Dash, and Kodi. If i have to guess, I say she’s going to the one place where you can get a pet. 

Later
And once again, I’m right again. We followed her all the way to her cottage’s backyard, where many animals could possibly be pets for either Kaede or Rainbow Dash.

“So what pet is Kay and Dashy gonna get Ren?” Kodi asked curiously.

“I…have no clue.” I shrugged. “But I’m sure we’ll found soon.”

“That is true, I’ll admit.” Kodi nodded in agreement as Fluttershy came over in front of Kaede and Rainbow Dash with a happy grin.


(Fluttershy):
Now, Rainbow, Kaede, my dears, I cannot express my delight
It's abundantly clear that somewhere out here
Is the pet that will suit you just right

(Rainbow Dash):
I can't wait to get started, but first let me set a few rules
It's of utmost importance
The pet that I get
Is something that's awesome and cool!

(Kaede):
And my pet needs to be something that I can love!
Something that is cute...sort of!

(Fluttershy):
Awesome, cool, love, cute, got it!
I have so many wonderful choices, just wait, you will see!

(Rainbow Dash):
I need something real fast like a bullet to keep up with me!

(Kaede):
And something that matches my personality!

(Fluttershy):
Sure! How 'bout a bunny?
They're cutesy and wootsie and quick as can be!

(Rainbow Dash):
Cutesy? Wootsie? Have you even met me?

(Kaede):
I don't know if that's right for me.

(Fluttershy):
Rainbow, Kaede, have faith
You see, I will bet you
Somewhere in here is the pet that will get you!

(Kaede):
Come on, the sky's the limit!

(Rainbow Dash):
Sky is good. I'd like it to fly.

(Fluttershy): 
Really? Because I think this widdle putty tat has your name written all over it. 

Fluttershy held a cute little kitty cat in front of Kaede and Rainbow Dash, which made Kaede cooed while Rainbow scrunched her face at it.

(Fluttershy):
Yes, he does. Aww, look, he likes you.

(Rainbow Dash):
Pass!

(Kaede):
I think it's so cute!

(Fluttershy):
I have so many wonderful choices for you to decide
There are otters and seals
With massive appeal

(Rainbow Dash):
Otters and seals can't fly.

(Kaede):
Maybe not, but I've seen that particular seal catch ten feet of air when he breaches the water!

A seal clapped his flippers and barks happily.

(Rainbow Dash):
That's it. I'm outta here.

As Rainbow Dash tried to walk away, I noticed a small turtle walking towards her. Aww, he looks cool and cute at the same time.

(Fluttershy):
Wait! There must be a pet here!
That will fit the ticket
How 'bout a ladybug, or a cute cricket?

(Rainbow Dash):
Bigger. And cooler.

(Fluttershy):
Bigger, cooler. Right.

Unfortunately, neither the girls noticed the small turtle, much to me and Kodi's disappointment. You know, he's not a bad pet to own. I heard that turtles can practically live for 1,000 years, which is a really long time.

I've got just the thing in that tree, Dash.
Meet your new fabulous pet, Squirrely!

She showed us a brown squirrel, who made cute sound, much to Kaede's joy and Rainbow's annoyance.

(Rainbow Dash):
It's just a squirrel!

(Fluttershy):
Not just any squirrel. A flying squirrel!

Squirrely jumped off her hooves and began gliding around with its wing before it cling itself into a tree.

(Kaede):
That's amazing!

(Rainbow Dash):
...Yeah. So, like I was saying...

I then noticed the same tortoise again, trying its best to gain Rainbow's attention, but it was ignored once more, much to my disappointment. Seriously Dash, do you not see the poor turtle?!

Fluttershy, pal, this won't cut it
Me and Kaede need a pet to keep up with us
Something awesome, something flying
With coolness that defies gravity!

(Fluttershy):
I'm sensing you want an animal that can fly.

(Rainbow Dash):
Ya think?

(Fluttershy):
I have plenty of wonderful creatures who soar in the sky
Like a sweet hummingbird or a giant monarch butterfly

Okay, I gotta admit. Those sound awesome animals that I've never seen in real life.

(Rainbow Dash):
Better, but cooler.

The turtle tried tapping Rainbow's back leg, but she merely pushed it away, causing it to wobble away. Aww...

(Fluttershy):
I see. How 'bout an owl, or a wasp, or a toucan?
There's so many wonderful creatures the likes of that
There are falcons and eagles
They are both quite regal
Or perhaps what you need is a dark and mysterious bat?

(Kaede):
 Oh, there's so much to choose!

Fluttershy grabbed Dash by the hooves as they flew to the skies while Kaede, Kodi, and I looked up with awe and amazement!

(Rainbow Dash):
Who cares? Now you're talking! But instead of just one standout, now that's too many.
So many choices, and such richest aplenty

(Fluttershy):
Not a bad problem to have, if you ask me.

(Rainbow Dash):
The bat would be awesome, but the wasp I'm digging too
Do you have something in a yellow striped bat?

(Fluttershy):
No. I've got a hot pink flamingo, just dying to meet you.

The flamingo held out it's foot to shake with Rainbow Dash's, causing me, Kaede, and Kodi to chuckle at that.

(Rainbow Dash):
What to do, what to do?

She suddenly gasped with widened eyes as she formed a big grin! 
A prize! That's it! There's really just one way
To find out which animal's best
Hold a contest of speed, agility, and guts
That will put each pet to the test!

(Ren):
That doesn't sound like a bad idea!

(Fluttershy):
Don't forget style, that should be considered.

(Rainbow Dash):
Then we'll know for sure who's best of the litter!

(Fluttershy):
The one who is awesome as cool!

(Rainbow Dash):
Just like me
Can't settle for less, 'cause I'm the best!

(Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash):
So a contest we will see!

(Rainbow Dash):
Who's the number one, greatest, pefectest pet!

(Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash):
In the wold for me!

(Fluttershy):
May the games...

(Rainbow Dash):
Begin!



"May the best pet win!" Rainbow exclaimed, raising her hoof into the air as the animals that interested Rainbow cheered alongside her.

"A contest..." Kaede thought before noticing a little kitty cat that has gray fur and yellow eyes and black little stripes around it's body looking at her as it let out a cute meow. "Ahh, you're so cute."

Kaede raised the little kitten in the air and smiled happily. "You know, I think I found my new pet friend."

"Hey, good for you, Kay!" I smiled happily, relieved that she finally has picked her pet.

"A kitty cat?" Rainbow questioned. "You're gonna pick a kitty cat?! Come on Kay! You should totally pick a different pet that!"

"Rainbow, this is her choice and she decides on what she picks." I exclaimed, standing up for her. 

"Ren's right. Kaede chose which pet she wanted Rainbow Dash. Besides, didn't you say a minute ago that you want to hold a contest to choose which pet you think is more bigger and cooler as you?" Fluttershy questioned.

"Exactly!" Rainbow nodded. "But I guess you're right. I'll see you all later!"

Rainbow then flew off, leaving a rainbow trail behind while the other animals followed after her, along with the turtle, who was slowly walking to catch up with Dash. Kodi looked at the small kitty cat and started sniffing it, causing it to let out another cute meow

"Kodi..." I looked at him with confusion. "Are you okay? You're not growling at it?"

"Well she looks so cute and is so friendly like me and the other animals, except Opal." Kodi said, rolling his eyes before the kitty jumped off Kaede's hands and landed on Kodi's head before she gently licked him.

"Aww, that's so adorable." Kaede cooed. "Kodi, you're such a nice doggy to let a cute kitty like her to lick you."

"Y-yeah...I don't mind that at all." Kodi blushed a bit.

"So wait, if you don't want to hurt her because she's a kitty? Then why attack Opal?" I asked curiously.

"Oh, because she's mean." Kodi answered bluntly. Well, he's not wrong. She loves to hiss at Rarity and scratches her whenever she tries to touch her, but maybe she does loves her...in her own way. "And I can't stand her like that."

"Oh...okay." I said, rubbing my cheek in embarrassment before turning to Kaede and asked "So what are you gonna name her?"

"I don't know. I guess I'll think of it later when this contest Rainbow talked about takes place." Kaede replied as the kitten snuggled on Kodi's head, causing him to laugh.

"Alright little girl, you can stay on my head if ya want." Kodi offered, much to the little kitten's delight.

"Aww, you're so nice Kodiak." Fluttershy smiled before noticing me looking at the turtle. "Hm? Ren? Is there something with this little friend?"

"Well...I noticed this turtle has been trying to gain Dash's attention during the entire song, but kept failing to do so." I explained, turning to Fluttershy with a worried look.

"Umm, Ren...that's a tortoise." Fluttershy corrected me.

"Wait what? A tortoise?" I asked.

"Yeah, that's a tortoise, not a turtle. You know, turtles have flippers while tortoise has feet like this one." Fluttershy pointed out.

"Yeah, she's right Ren." Kaede agreed. I blushed a bit in embarrassment, rubbing my head bashfully. Okay, well I'm sure anyone that saw him might make the same mistake as I did.

"W-well anyway, I was wondering if 'tortoise' might be a good pet for Dash." I said, which made Fluttershy sad.

"I'm sorry Ren, but I don't think it might possible for her to love him." Fluttershy sighed sadly. 

"Well she did say that she wants an animal that is both big and cool like her." Kodi pointed out.

"Hmm...that is a problem." Kaede wondered.

"Well then...why not we help him out get chosen by Dash?" I offered, much to their confusion. "Rainbow Dash is going to be having a contest for the animals she chosen from that musical number a while ago, so if we help the tortoise on getting chosen as Rainbow's pet, then he won't feel sad anymore."

I saw the tortoise slowly making a smile at me, probably glad for coming up with that kind of idea.

“Hmm….that doesn’t sound like a bad idea. Thank you Ren.” Fluttershy smiled.

“Well, I’ll help out too. I want to help Dash on finding the perfect pet just like I did.” Kaede said, smiling over at the little kitty cat as she was sleeping peacefully on Kodi’s head.  

“Me too. I’m sure the little tortoise will find a good home with Dash.” Fluttershy smiled.

“Yeah! I can even compete in the contest. Just to help the turtle-”

“Tortoise.” I corrected him.

“The tortoise out in the contest to show how awesome he is, and also maybe show the other animals what an awesome pet I am.” Kodi smirked. Why I do have the feeling that he was boasting about that?

“Well then, why not we head over and give this tortoise a chance?” I offered, which everyone nodded as Fluttershy picked up the tortoise as we headed back into town for this big contest Rainbow was talking about.



Later
Huh…she’s really taking this thing seriously. She rounded up any animal she took liking of as they were stood in a straight line as we all cheered for them, even Kodiak, and the tortoise joined in.

Rainbow then blew her whistle, shutting us up. “Shh!” She shushed us before turning back to the animals. “So! You all think you’ve got what it takes to be my pet, do ya? Well, we’ll see about that!” She pressed her nose against the flamingo, who let out a long gulp. “If any of you don’t think you can handle it, bow out now before you humiliate yourself in front of your peers. This competition isn’t for the weak. You’d better be prepared to step up your game!” 

She then noticed the monarch butterfly as she pressed her face closer to it. “You call that flapping?” She asked, making the butterfly flapped its wings larger. “That’s better There’s only room on Team Dash for one of you, and my future pet needs to be able to take it to the extreme! Any questions?”

“Uhh…is this contest really necessary?” Jamie whispered. “I mean, it can’t be that hard to choose a pet, right?”

“True, but remember that finding a pet that fits the perfect bond with its owner is the most important thing.” Mason explained. “I understand this contest might be…stupid, but we have to trust Dash on this one if she wants to find the perfect pet for her.”

“Okay, but does she even understand what a pet really needs?” Applejack asked with a raised brow.

“Well, they do need love.” Carrie pointed out.

“Yeah, along with care and attention.” Twilight answered. “Love and affection-AH!” Winona walked over and licked Twilight on the cheek, causing us all to smile. “Ugh…And breath mints!”

“Those are good facts for an owner to do for their pet.” Jamie nodded before turning to Kaede. “So Kaede, you said that you chosen that little kitty, right?”

“Yeah, she felt so cute and kept looking at me, like we were destined to meet each other.” Kaede stated, petting her little cat while it rest in her arms.

“She is so cute.” Carrie cooed.

“Now, you just pay attention, and try your best, and-” Rainbow stopped her explanation as she noticed Fluttershy and I with the tortoise and Kodi. “W-what the? Seriously, Fluttershy?! The turtle?! What did you bring that thing here for?” She pointed at him, causing it to flinch.

“Rainbow…that’s a tortoise.” I pointed out, much to her annoyance.

“And what are you doing here?! Kodiak belongs to you!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“I thought I could participate along with the tortoise. It’s just for fun, that’s all.” Kodi replied with a grin on his face.

“And he’s always dreamed of being somepony’s pet. He just wants a chance to compete, he won’t get in the way. You won’t even know he’s here.” Fluttershy added as she pointed at the tortoise. Rainbow looked at it for a moment before scoffing “No.”

“Oh, just let him try.” 

“Yeah! He deserves a chance! This is so unfair, you know.” I added, backing up Fluttershy.

“Ugh, but there’s no way he can possibly keep up.” She exclaimed, pushing the turtle away before it accidentally rolled on his back and return to his original position. “Look at him!”

“It won’t hurt to let him try.” Fluttershy said, holding him towards her.

“But-”

“Come on Rainbow! He wants to do this! Please!” Kodi begged, giving her the puppy dog stare. Rainbow looked at him for a minute, her face showing off a feeling of guilt as she groaned “Ugh, okay! Okay! Fine!”

“Yes!” Kodi muttered with a grin. Ha, oldest trick in the book. Good one Kodiak.

“I’ll let you and the turtle-”

“Tortoise.” Fluttershy pointed out.

“Whatever, I’ll let you two join in, but don’t come crying to me when this competition gets too intense.” Rainbow said with a serious expression.

“How intense we talking here?” I asked curiously.

“More intense than you ever witness.” She replied with a cocky grin. 

Oookay….not the answer I was hoping for, but I’ll take it. I bent down and petted Kodi on the head and said “Good luck boy.”

“You got it, Ren.” Kodi winked as soon as Fluttershy gently placed the tortoise down on the ground.

“But don’t say I didn’t ya two! This isn’t a game you know!” Rainbow warned, glaring at both Kodiak and the tortoise, which the latter flinched by hiding into its shell. She then looked back at the animals and said “Alright, now these games will determine which one of you has the most important qualities. I’m looking for a pet.” She sped around the place, causing the turtle to spin around on his shell. “Speed!” Rainbow shouted before maneuvering through each animal quickly. “Agility.” She then stopped by the others and puffed herself up. “Guts!” She flew towards a cloud and creating something with her flight skills. “Style!”

She flew back down with a big grin and said “Coolness”. She then formed a pose and added “Awesomeness.” Finally, she placed the cap she had before and turned it backwards, crossing her hooves together and wore some dark shades. “And radicalness.”

“Umm…Radicalness isn’t even a word.” Jamie pointed out.

“And aren’t those all the same thing?” Twilight added.

Rainbow turned to them with her shades down and said “You would think that, Twilight and Jamie. And that’s why neither of you would never qualify to be my pet.”

“I…rather not, thank you.” Jamie said, feeling annoyed by that along with Twilight as she gave an annoyed glare at her. Me and Fluttershy walked over to them as I said “Don’t worry guys. You know how Dash is.”

“Yeah, though I don’t know why but that comment stung a bit.” Jamie sighed.

“Just ignore her comment. Besides, like Ren said, you know how she is.” Twilight assured with a soft grin.

“Okay…” Jamie nodded as we watched over Rainbow Dash began the Who’s The Best Pet contest as she moved to the first challenge.

“Speed!” Rainbow announced, much to my shock. Kodi can handle it, but the turtle…no. Now that’s a problem! This is really unfair and she knows that! “On your marks…get set…” The animals, Kodi, and the tortoise prepared themselves for the starting line as Rainbow blew the whistle, making them run as fast as they could. As Kodi and the other animals crossed the finish line, Rainbow analyze them.

“Hmm…sorta speedy…not speedy…pretty speedy…could be more speedy…” The falcon let out a cry and instantly flew with a rapid spin and stopped at the line. “Yeah! That’s speed!”

We all cheered while Kodi let out bark of joy before noticing the tortoise going too slow to cross the finish. He then walked over and picked him up on his floor and crossed the finish line with him, much to Rainbow’s disappointment.

“That’s just sad.” Rainbow said blankly, much to my concern. Ooh, I just hope that turtle really does get picked by Dash.



“Agility!”

The butterfly began, swiftly moving through the hoops while remaining in control, but Rainbow must’ve though how it was doing it too soft.

“Sorta agile…”  The flamingo went up next and tried to maneuver on a sort of see-saw obstacle, but failed by slipping and falling onto the ground. “Not agile…” The toucan went up as it flew through the curved and covered hoop, pretty swiftly and elegant. “Pretty agile…” The bat flew through a hoof quite easily like it was nothing. “Could be more agile…”

The tortoise went up next, but failed due to him trying to jump, but only stretched. “Wanna know the opposite of agility? That.” 

Ouch, that comment really stung. Kodi went up next, jumping hoop through hoop, impressing Rainbow a bit. “Okay, that’s a little agile.”

The hummingbird went up last as it swiftly past through each hoop while it was maintaining its speed, much to Rainbow’s joy.

“Yeah baby, now that’s what I call agility!” She raised her hoof in front of the hummingbird, much to its confusion. “Come on! Don’t leave me hanging!” The hummingbird slapped one of its wings on Rainbow’s hoof, but it made it fall on itself before re-flapping its wings and looked at Dash with a nervous look. “Yeah…I’m gonna have to shave a point off your score for that.”

Well, at least it’s still managed to impress Rainbow earlier, right?



“Okay! Which of you has the guts to try and get Opal’s favorite toy away from her.” 

So it’s a strategy on how to steal a toy from her? Well I think Kodiak can handle her…I think. Wait, I think I might be wrong about that. Kodi went up first and growled at her, causing her to hiss at him as they began chasing each other.

“Okay, maybe he has some guts but I’m gonna score him off because he didn’t get the toy like I asked.” Rainbow said, writing something in her clipboard. I face-palmed myself while seeing Kodi kept chasing Opal. Man, I should’ve realized this would happen. After we managed to calm both Opal and Kodiak down, the butterfly went up next and tried to get the toy mouse, but Opal stopped herself as she exited out of her cat cage and growled at it. The monarch butterfly showed off its wings, causing the cat to feel like to be hypnotized. Once she was distracted, the butterfly swiped the toy mouse away and gave it to Dash.

“Now that takes guts!” Rainbow exclaimed, impressed by the butterfly’s strategy. We all became surprised and stared in awe at just how brave the butterfly was.

“Wow, who knew a butterfly can do!” Carrie said in awe.

“Of course, a butterfly uses its wings to hypnotized its predators so that it can escape from danger.” Jamie explained.

“That I agree.” Mason nodded, crossing his arms while watching over the contest. Soon, the turtle went up next and slowly tried to snatch the toy from Opal, but that nasty cat saw it coming as she tried to slash him, but he went back inside of his shell to defend himself. Opal continued to slash him, but it won’t work since his shell is like a tank. Rainbow gave off an uninterested look and sighed heavily. Oh come on! He’s defending himself by hiding in his shell! I say that’s a pretty cool thing to do.



“Style!” 

Rainbow asked Rarity to take some pictures of her and the animals. Up first was the bat as he wore dark shades, next was the falcon as he stood on Rainbow’s shoulder as she stood valiantly. The next one was the hummingbird as it was fencing with Dash.

Soon, Kodi went up and licked Dash on the face, causing her to make a soft grin at him. She then wore a dress and stood on several books with the owl, and the other was she was playing with something that had brooms involved with the hawk. She then just finished taking pictures with the butterfly as Rarity walked over and removed the accessories from her and puffed her cheeks in powder.

“Any pet of mine’s gotta look good, ‘cause you gotta make me look good!” Rainbow said as she went over to the next competitor, which revealed the tortoise as Kodi put a red bow on his shell, trying to make him look good, but right when Rarity took a picture of her and the tortoise, he cowered in his shell while Rainbow made an uncomfortable and disappointed look on his face.



“Coolness!”

She then tested every animal that can make its sounds. She first pointed at the owl, who made a ‘hoot’ sound. 

“Sorta cool.”

She then pointed at the duck, which made a quack sound. 

“Not cool.”

She then pointed at the bat, which made a loud cry. “Pretty cool.”

She pointed at the toucan, but once it cried, it sounded more like it was choking or something.

“Could be cooler.”

She pointed at the ground, as we looked down to see a Wasp as it just let out a buzzing sound.

“Not what I had in mind.”

“But don’t bees make that sound?” I asked, sweat-dropping a little.

“Yeah, but then again, this is Rainbow Dash we’re talking about.” Mason replied, also sweat-dropping.

Rainbow soon moved on the butterfly, but all it did was flap, not making a single sound. 

“I can’t hear you!”

“A butterfly can’t make a sound, Rainbow Dash.” Jamie pointed out, much to her annoyance. Soon, we moved to Kodi and the tortoise as he let out a bark, which sorta impressed Dash.

“Uhh…could be cooler.” Dash said, disappointing Kodi. Well I think his bark was awesome. Anyway, the tortoise tried to make a sound, but his cry was too dry to hear.

“Eugh.” Rainbow rolled her eyes while returning a disgusted look at him till she heard the eagle let out a powerful cry. “Okay, now that’s a cool sound!”

Well, I’ll admit, that was a cool sound. Sorry guys.

She then went over to her awesomeness contest, but like Jamie and Twilight stated, it was the same thing as the last three words she spoke about before this thing started. It started off with the bat as it hang itself on a tree in an upside down position while it flopped his ears.

“Sorta awesome.” Rainbow shrugged.

“What’s it doing?” I wondered aloud.

“It’s using its sound waves.” Jamie muttered aloud, gaining our attention. “Since bats are blind, it uses sound waves to identify it preys and enemies.”

“Oh, so that’s what its doing!” Pinkie said, surprising Jamie, who didn’t realize that he was talking aloud again. “I thought he liked flopping his ears like I do!”

Pinkie flopped her ears around, much to his surprise. “B-b-but how?!” Jamie demanded.

“It’s Pinkie Pie.” We all answered, not wanting him to go there like Twilight did.

Anyway, the awesomeness contest went over with the toucan and made a really weird noise. 

“Not awesome.”

The flamingo stood on one leg easily, which sorta impressed her.

“Could be more awesome.”

The owl started twisting his head around, which impressed her a lot.

“Hohoho, yeah, that is awesome!”

Kodi, along with the tortoise went up next as Kodi settled the tortoise down to allow him to do an awesome trick, but all he did was put his head back in his shell.

“Uh, you did that already. That’s pretty much all you can do, huh?” The turtle felt hurt by her words, along with the rest of us. “And what can you do, Kodiak?”

“Uhh…I can do this.” Kodi picked up a stick and handed it to her, much to Rainbow’s confusion before realizing what he was trying to do. She sighed and thew the stick away, making him go fetch it.

“I got it! I got it!” Kodi called, rushing towards the stick.

“Yeah…needs more work.” Rainbow rolled her eyes. Sorry Kodi, but that’s something I’m afraid that you won’t win.



The next and final part of the contest is for animals to present their radicalness. You know, I have to agree with Jamie. That really isn't a word. Anyway, they were resorted into what it seems like a talent show. The duck went up first by tapping his feet with a cane in his wings as well as wearing an old fashion hat. Hmm, why do I have the feeling that I've seen something like that before?

The eager went up next and knitted Dash a sweater, much to our surprise, but mostly Jamie.

"H-how?!" Jamie gasped.

"I...have no clue." Kaede answered.

Soon, the falcon went next and failed in some card trick, and the wasp was making some shadow puppets, which surprised us.

"Did you teach these animals all of these tricks, Flutters?" I asked curiously. She blushed a bit and smiled sheepishly and replied "Maybe..."

Soon, all these talents started boring Rainbow Dash and just as the bat arrived, he hung himself upside-down with several mirrors around him as he began singing some sooth song before letting out a high pitch scream, breaking all of the glasses, impressing Rainbow Dash herself.

"Whoa! That was truly awesome!" Rainbow exclaimed, making the bat happy. "But I'm afraid this is the radicalness competition, so I'm gonna have to take some points off."

Oh well, I give it a 10 out of 10. 

Soon, both Kodi and the tortoise went up next, and I gotta say, this tortoise is really determined to win this race because they made a dangerous yet cool obstacle course. 

"Alright little guy, good luck." Kodi said with a smile. The tortoise slowly nodded before turning as he was about to jump off the chair he was standing. But unfortunately, the moment it jumped, it fell back on the ground and on his shell. 

"Uhh...ta-da?" Kodi laughed nervously while Dash returned the disappointed look on them as she walked over with a sigh and said "Listen, turtle..."

"Tortoise." Kodi corrected him, angering Rainbow.

"Whatever!" Rainbow exclaimed, causing Kodi to smile sheepishly as we all walked over with worried and concern looks while Mason returned a stern look at her as Rainbow continued "You've had your fun, but I think you and I both now who made the cut and who didn't."

The tortoise only blinked in confusion before letting out a croak. 

"You didn't." Rainbow replied, much to our surprise and annoyance.

"Come on! He's trying his best!" Kodi complained. "I've been trying to show him and myself how awesome we are as pets, but you keep shunning him like that! I don't mind if some of my tricks are boring to you, but being too rude to him like that because he's slow is just mean!"

"He's right." Mason nodded in agreement. "While you see the tortoise as weak, he has some strengths. Every animal has different weaknesses and strengths that helps others."

"Pfft! Yeah right." Rainbow rolled her eyes, not bothering to hear any of our complaints before turning to the tortoise and said "Oh well, 'A' for effort and everything, you gave it your best shot, maybe I've got a gold star sticker around here somewhere you can have, but seriously, go home. You're starting to creep me out."

"No!" I shouted, surprising her. "This little guy was trying his best to be owned by you, Dash! Right now, you're acting like a jerk. Can't you just accept him and let him be your pet by default?"

"Sorry Ren, but no second chances." Rainbow shrugged, looking at me with a sorry look. "I mean, he can't fly, but I can. That's why I can't accept him."

I sighed sadly until Kaede patted me on the back and said "Hey, don't feel bad. I'm sure we'll change her mind on letting her have that tortoise."

"Yeah." I nodded as Rainbow spoke with the animal competitors.

"You're all outstanding competitors, but there can only be one of you who's number one. So the final, tie-breaking contest is going to be..." She turned the other way for a moment until she said "...Pause for dramatic effect...a race against...me! Through Ghastly Gorge! Dun dun dun!"

"Ghastly Gorge?" Carrie asked. 

"That sounds like a scary name." Kodi said in concern.

"And with a name like that, it has to be extremely dangerous and you know that, Rainbow Dash!" Jamie pointed out.

"Nah, it's okay." Rainbow waved it off. "Ghastly Gorge isn't scary. It's fun. Heh. I've flown through it a million times myself, so obviously I'll be at the front of the pack."

"Rainbow, are you sure about this?" I asked curiously. "What happens if one of the animals gets hurt?"

"Or even you?" Kaede asked. 

"I told you guys that I've been flying through that place like a million times, so I know this place like the back of my head." Rainbow knocked on her head with a confident grin on her face.

"...Okay, just stay safe and make sure nothing goes wrong." I replied.

"Pfft! I'll be fine." Rainbow rolled her eyes before noticing the tortoise. "Oh, and make sure that tortoise doesn't try to follow me. Not that he could catch up to my speed, that is."

"Ugh...fine." I sighed as she and the other animal competitors headed over to Ghastly Gorge. Kodi and Kaede's little kitty friend, who came over and nuzzled his face, watched over to see them head over to Ghastly Gorge. "What am I gonna do with her? She's so stubborn."

"Yeah, just like my big brother." Carrie sighed, noticing the raised brow from her older brother. "Umm...no offense."

"None taken..." Mason sighed.

"Well I still want the tortoise to be won over by Rainbow Dash." Kodi sighed as the kitty sat on his head, causing him to smile. You know, this kitty seems to really take a liking to him. "Ahh, thanks little girl."

"Seems like Rosy likes to be around Kodiak, like she thinks of him like a big brother." Kaede chuckled.

"Rosy?" I asked curiously.

"Oh, that must be the name of your new kitty pet, right?" Jamie asked.

"Yep, it's a cute name, right?" Kaede chuckled.

"Indeed, and I hope your little kitten friend isn't as vial as Opal." Rarity said, eyeing her pet cat with a sigh.

"Rosy?" Kodi repeated before looking over Rosy. "Alright, Rosy, so you think of me as a big sis, right?"

"Meow." Rosy replied, licking his face, causing him to chuckle.

"Okay girl, that's enough." Kodi laughed before he and I noticed the tortoise trying to follow where Rainbow Dash and the other animals went off.

"Huh? Where's he going?" I wondered.

"He's trying to go where Rainbow Dash went." Mason said, confusing us. "That's what he's trying to do."

"Wow! He's really determined, eh?" Carrie said in surprise.

"Same here. This turtle got some guts, I'll tell ya that." Applejack added.

"Ren, can you take him to Ghastly Gorge and help him get to Rainbow Dash?" Fluttershy asked nicely, much to my surprise.

"Me?" I asked in surprise.

"Yes, I want him to find the perfect owner that can give him the love and attention he needs and I think Rainbow Dash is that perfect owner if she finds out the turtle's true potential." Fluttershy explained before pleading "So please, can you do this for me?" 

I looked at her and realized that she was right, this tortoise really wants to be owned by Dash and will do anything to gain her attention, so I have to! Rainbow Dash needs to see how much the turtle needs her and that she needs him!

"Alright! I'll do it!" I replied in determination. 

"Well I'm coming too!" Kodi added, wanting to help as too.

"Meow!" Rosy said. I'm no cat-translator, but I think she wants to join in as well.

"Well, if Rosy is coming along, so will I." Kaede said with a smile. "After all, I don't want to the tortoise to feel left out by Rainbow Dash!"

"Alright! Let's go!" I took out the capsule ball, pressing on the button before throwing it into the air and transforming into my hoverboard. I leaped onto it, along with Kaede as she grabbed ahold on my back while Rosy sat on her head as well.

Whoa, it's kinda getting a little too roomy on this board. 

"Kodi, I don't have enough room in here." I said, which made him shook his head as he replied "Don't worry, I'll try to catch up with you. But are you sure you'll be carry all that weight on your board, along with the tortoise?"

"Don't worry, we'll be fine. Now let's go!" I exclaimed before blasting off, much to Kaede and Rosy's surprise. Kodi began running behind, trying his best to keep up with us. 

"Good luck Ren! We'll see you at the finish line!" Twilight yelled as we were out of their sight, heading towards Ghastly Gorge. I looked over at the tortoise, who was relaxing in his shell, causing me to smile. It's nice to see him relax when we're trying to help him out in this situation. 



So this is Ghastly Gorge. Gotta say, it's feel like we're inside of a haunted house from Super Mario Bros. Only except, this is a gorge.

"Wow, this place just gives me the creeps." Kodi muttered as he used a long edge cliff path to travel down here as we flew down, or in Kodi's case, running as we tried to catch up to Dash and the other animals. Oh, I just hope they're alright.

"Ren, look out!" Kaede pointed, showing something appearing right out of the holes, causing us to dodge them. I took out my Hacking Gun and shot 'Break' at them, causing them to get hit in the eyes before returning back to their caves.

"Phew, that was a close one." I sighed, putting away my Hacking Gun. 

"And she tells us this place is safe..." Kaede said in a deadpanned expression. Yeah, that I agree. Next time Dash is going to take us to a place that seems to have a weird and dangerous name, we should consult this about if there are any dangers of this place. "Oh well, thank goodness you brought over your Hacking Gun."

"Yeah." I said, using my right hand to put away my Hacking Gun while I wrapped my left arm around the tortoise's shell. You know, it's been a while since I last used my Hacking Gun. I haven't been using this thing for a while. Jamie once said that his father created this thing and it was still a prototype. So why do I have it? I never thought of that...

"HELP ME! HELP!" Huh? What was that Rainbow Dash? And was she calling for help just a minute ago? We swooped down as we found Dash, but had her left wing trapped inside of a boulder.

"Rainbow!" Me, Kodi, and Kaede called as we flew down and got off the hoverboard, rushing towards her. "Are you okay?!" I asked in concern, looking over her wing.

"Y-yeah, I think so. But woo-hoo!" Rainbow cheered. "My prayers have been answered! Oh, thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

"Okay, relax Dash." Kaede assured. "But what happened to you?"

"There was an avalanche all of a sudden and my wing got trapped in it." Ooh, that's gonna leave a mark. "I tried to get the other animal's attention, but they didn't hear me and kept going to the finish line!"

"And you said this place was fine to fly threw." Kodi rolled his eyes, ignoring the glare from Rainbow Dash.

"Whatever, just get me out of here!" Dash commanded.

"Alright, alright, just stay calm and we'll-Huh?" Suddenly, the turtle got out of my hands as he landed on his back before managing to get back up, and walking slowly towards Dash, much to her shock.

"You?! What's he doing here?!" Rainbow demanded.

"We brought him over to be able to convince you that he wants you as his owner." I explained.

"Are you crazy?!" Rainbow exclaimed angrily. "Great! Just great! Not only am I doomed! But stuck here with the annoying animal in all of Equestria!" 

"Calm down! He's trying his best to help you out." I pointed out.

"Yeah, just give him a chance!" Kaede added, frustrating Dash.

"Oh great! Just great! I'm really am doomed forever! Doomed, I tell you!" Rainbow cried.

"Jeez, I've never seen her act like this before." Kodi said in worried.

"Yeah, me neither." I nodded. I just hope we'll find a way to get her out of that rock, but I think that the tortoise got a plan for this. Soon, he dug through the dirt and put his head underneath the rock. We all watched to see lift that giant rock off of Rainbow's wings.

"Whoa..." I muttered. That's one tough tortoise.

"See Rainbow? Still think that tortoise isn't lame?" Kaede smirked.

"W-well..." Rainbow glanced at us before she crossed her hooves and scoffed "S-so what? I could've done that."

"Then why didn't you do that earlier and just started calling for help?" Kodi pointed out, causing her to widen her eyes before growling at him. Now that was a sweet burn, Kodiak. Good for you.

"W-whatever! Now do something and carry me back to the others! I got a sprained wing." Rainbow said, showing us left wing. Ooh, it looked really sprang from when that boulder landed on her wing. 

"Man, that boulder must've really landed on your wing, huh?" Kaede said in surprise.

"Yeah, took me by surprise. Don't know what caused that avalanche in the first place." Rainbow said, slowly trying to get up, only to feel the pain coming from her wing. Wow, it really is that badly hurt. "Now hurry up and do something!"

"Hold on Dash, I'll carry on my board and-"

"Ren wait! Look!" Kaede pointed out, seeing the tortoise slowly walking over to Dash and attempting to pick her up. He soon managed to get Rainbow Dash on top of his shell and slowly began to walk. 

"Wow, who knew he had it in him?" Kodi chuckled.

"Yeah, same here." I nodded in agreement. Guess what the tortoise needed was confidence and love.

"So what now? Should we stay with them?" Kaede asked curiously, wanting to know what to do next.

"Hmm...I guess why not. Just in case they're any more danger." I pointed out, which they nodded in agreement as we began to make our way towards the end of the Ghastly Gorge. Hmm, doesn't seemed to look so eerie except encountering those weird things from out of those holes. Speaking of which...

"Say Dash, what are those things that come out of the holes? We encountered some of those things from those holes when we came looking for them." I said with a curious look.

"Oh, those are Quarray Eels. Don't worry, I was able to pass through them. It was no challenge for Rainbow Dash to handle." Rainbow boasted, causing us to roll our eyes.

"Sure you did..." Kaede muttered, which I nodded in agreement. 

"Okay, but will they attack us?" Kodi asked in worried.

"Nah, don't worry." Rainbow assured with a confident grin. "As long as they don't popped out of their holes, we'll be fine."

Unfortunately, that was a bad choice of words for Dash to say as we began to hear some rumbling as a bunch of giant eel like monsters, the same ones before appeared out of their holes, glaring down at us.

"Well that's no good..." Kaede muttered as she held on her kitty, who shrieked in fear. 

"Okay, maybe I spoke too soon." Rainbow chuckled.

"Gee, you think?" I asked in a deadpan expression before taking out my Hacking Gun and pointed at them. "Paralyze!"

I shot 'Paralyze' at them, freezing some of them in shock as the ones who weren't attacked tried to attack us by snapping its jaws at us.

"Watch out!" Kaede exclaimed as we kept avoiding them while we tried to protect both Dash and the tortoise from getting killed. I managed to shoot the ones I missed by using 'Dance', causing them to wiggle their heads around like they were getting the beat of a good and catchy music.

"Alright, try to finish them off Ren!" Kaede said, which I nodded. I then set it up on 'Break' and shot them while they were still dancing and still paralyzed from the 'Paralyze'. Once they were shot down, they immediately retreated back in their caves, causing me to smirk.

"Oh yeah! In your face, Quarray Eels!" I exclaimed with a smirk on my face.

"Well at least we're safe, especially the tortoise and Rainbow Dash." Kodi said, looking over to see the tortoise still carrying Rainbow Dash on her back.

"Yeah, good job Ren." Kaede smiled, which I nodded back.

"Sorry, I guess you were right about this place being too dangerous." Rainbow chuckled nervously, causing us all to raise our brows at her, irritating her. "Okay! Okay! It is dangerous! I should have known better but I come here everyday and always practiced my flight skills. Sorry if I put you guys in so much danger..."

"It's alright Dash, it's not your fault." I assured. "Besides, everyone makes mistakes."

"Yeah, but promise us that you never put yourself in somewhere danger like that again, please?" Kaede asked

"Please! Danger is my name." Rainbow said cockily, causing us to sigh. Of course she wouldn't promise something like that.

"Hey guys! I think I see the finish!" Kodi pointed as we looked over up the cliff to see a finish line along with everypony there. Oh wow, we've gotten there fast.

Soon, as the girls, Mason, and Jamie noticed us, they started cheering for us as we began walking over to the top, and I don't know how long it taken for us to reach to the top, but I gotta say: that turtle got guts. I offered Kaede, Rosy, and Kodi a ride on my board, which took a lot of weight off my board, but managed to reach to the top of the cliff while the turtle managed to climb to the cliff with Dash still on his shell as we began to walk over to the finish line.

"So should we cross the finish line?" Kodi asked me, which I replied "Nah, I think we should let him have the victory."

"That's what I think too." Kaede agreed as the others walked to the sidelines with us and we began to cheer for them to reach to the end.

"What took you guys so long?" Mason asked.

"Uh...it's sorta a long story." I chuckled nervously while Rosy jumped off of Kaede's hands and sat next to Kodi as we began to watch the tortoise and Dash about to cross the finish line. Unfortunately, we noticed how slow it's taken them to reach to the finish, much to our disappointment.

"...Maybe we better could go meet him halfway?" Fluttershy suggested.

"Yeah, I think that's a more better idea." Jamie agreed as Twilight used her magic to lift the finish line closer to Dash and the tortoise, and once it crossed, we all let out a cheer.

"Huh. Way to go, little guy!" Spike praised, patting him on the head.

"Yeah! He did great!" Carrie added, smiling towards the tortoise.

"Oh, thank goodness you're not hurt, Rainbow!" Twilight exclaimed in relief.

"Just my pride..." Rainbow muttered, dusting herself off.

"And her wing." Kodi pointed, showing the others her left wing sprained.

"Oh man..." Mason took a look at it before turning to Dash. "It's a good thing I brought over a first aid kit in case something like this happened."

"Yeah yeah...." Rainbow rubbed it off before saying "But...thank you I guess."

"Well still, I certainly hope all of this dreadful dust was worth it." Rarity added before some of the dust that was from Dash flew over to her, causing her to sneeze loudly.

"Bless you." Carrie said.

"Thanks Carrie, darling." Rarity smiled.

"It sure was, if'n it means Rainbow gets to have her own little critter just like the rest of us from now on." Applejack smiled as she petted Winona on the head. 

I then noticed the tortoise slowly looking up at Rainbow, eager to know about her decision on which pet she wishes to choose.

"Uh...thanks." Rainbow thanked as she slowly hopped of the shell while I helped her due to the sprained wing. She turned to the tortoise with a smile and said "What you did...I owe you one."

"So what now?" Kaede asked curiously.

"Umm..." Rainbow rubbed her chin for a minute, unable to choose which pet she wants. Please be the tortoise, please be the tortoise...

"Rainbow!" Fluttershy called. "Your new pet is over here waiting for you!" She presented the falcon that was sitting on her back, who spread his wings and flew over to Dash, landing above her bandaged wing, which Mason bandaged up.

I noticed the turtle looking at her sadly, causing me, Kaede, and Kodiak to look at each other with sad and worried looks. Come on Dash, after the trouble on him saving you, are you really gonna choose the falcon over the tortoise.

"Oh...right...yeah that." Rainbow said, her voice showing uncertainty about this. So...is she thinking what I hope she's thinking?

"What's the matter?" Spike asked in concern.

"You got your perfect pet, right?" Pinkie added, patting the falcon's head.

"And I thought that the falcon might be a cool pet for you since you both can fly super fast." Carrie pointed out.

"The best of the best like you wanted, remember? It can fly and it's not a squirrel!" Fluttershy agreed. "Should we sing about it again?"

"A falcon sure looks good on ya, Rainbow." Applejack commented.

Rarity placed her camera in front of Dash and took a picture of her and the falcon, which caused the turtle to hide and cower in his shell the moment he saw the flash.

"Easy, fella. Nothing to be afraid of." Rainbow assured, patting on his shell with a soft smile. "The falcon sure does look cool..." The falcon puffed his chest proudly. "He's absolutely everything I wanted in a pet."

"...Yay?" Fluttershy cheered, but in a questionable matter.

"Which means?" I asked, hoping to hear what I think she's about to see.

Rainbow turned to me, Kaede, Rosy, and Kodi with a grin and answered "But I said whoever crosses the finish line with me gets to be my pet."

"You did! You did say that!" Pinkie exclaimed, remembering Rainbow's words. "She did say that, that was the rule!"

"But...what are you trying to say?" Jamie asked curiously. "Are you saying that the falcon is no good?"

"Yeah, but though the falcon crossed the finish line first..." Rainbow pointed out before softly smiling towards the tortoise. "The only racer who crossed the finish line with me, was the one who stopped to save me when I needed help." The falcon looked at her, wondering what she meant. That's when she chose which animal she wanted as a pet. "The tortoise!"

Rainbow picked him up and nuzzled her nose against his, which made him smile.

"What?!" Jamie gasped. "But why? Didn't the falcon cross the finish line first?"

"True Jamie, but the falcon may have won the race by speed, but what the tortoise won was a heart and courage it did to save Dash, with us along the ride that is." I explained with a smile.

"I see...I'll try to remember those words, Ren. Thanks." Jamie said, writing it down in his journal. 

"Hey guys, I don't think that falcon is taking its rejection too well." Kodi said in a worried tone as we watched over to see the falcon sulking off before flying over to Dash and the tortoise.

"What's he doing?" Mason wondered till his question was answer upon seeing the falcon shaking his wings with the tortoise before walking away in defeat. Oh well, maybe you'll find a perfect owner one day, falcon. Dash walked over and placed her hoof on his shell, causing him to look back and slowly smiled at her.

"Would you look at that? He even smiles slow." Applejack commented, causing us to chuckle and awe.

"You know, I think you learned you lesson, Rainbow Dash." Mason smiled. 

"Yeah, and you should send a message to Celeste to tell her what you learned today." I added.

“Yeah you’re right.” Rainbow smiled before turning to Spike.  “Spike, take a letter.”

“Sure!” Spike nodded before taking out a scroll and quill and began writing down what Dash said.

“Wait!” Kaede stopped them. “I want in on it too. After all, I learned something after meeting Rosy.” She turned to her pet cat as she was playing around with the stuffed cat toy Kaede kept in her pockets.

“Alright, let’s hear what you both got to say.” Spike said, waiting for one of them to speak. Soon, Rainbow Dash began:

“Dear Princess Celestia, I used to think that the most important traits to look for in a pet, or any best friend, were all physical competitive abilities. But now I can see how short-sighted and shallow that was.”

“Today, me and Rainbow Dash learned what the most important quality that’s the mark of a real winner. And my fellow kitten friend, Rosy, and the tortoise that saved Dash’s life.” Kaede said, finishing up the last part of the letter.

“Tenacity.” Twilight offered.

“And diplomacy.” Jamie added, writing it down on his notebook, presumable the entire friendship report from what he heard from Dash and Kay.

“Gesundheit.” Rainbow responded, causing Mason to rolled his eyes.

“That’s not what they meant, Rainbow Dash.” Mason said sternly, causing her to smile sheepishly.

“Anyway…” Rainbow looked at the tortoise for a second. “What am I gonna call you?”

“How about Tank?” I offered. “I mean, his shell is as hard as a tank, right?”

“Hmm…Tank…yeah.” Rainbow brightened up on that name. “Alright! Tank it is! That good, Tank?”

The tortoise or Tank now, slowly grinned. Guess that means that he does love the name.

“That’s so cute. I’m so glad that the both of us gotten our pets.” Kaede smiled, picking up Rosy and kissing her on the forehead.

“Meow…” Rosy smiled before nuzzling her chest, causing her to laugh.

“But Rainbow, I thought you wanted a pet that could fly with you, right?” Carrie pointed out.

“Yes! Carrie makes a good point.” Fluttershy nodded in agreement. “What are you gonna do about it?”

“Hmm….” Rainbow looked at Tank for a second before grinning. “I got one! Meet me tomorrow at the park!”

Before any of us could respond, Rainbow flew off with Tank on her back.

“I wonder what she got plan for him?” Carrie wondered.

“Same here, though I’m glad that she got to pick Tank as her pet.” Kodi smiled before nuzzling my legs. “You know, when we first met back then, I sorta surprised when you learn that I could talk, but accepted me quickly than anypony else.”

“Well I gotten used to Equestria for a while, and plus, it was quite awesome to encounter a talking dog like you. I’m just happy that I decided to take you in, Kodiak.” I smiled, causing Kodi to smile happily as he pounced on me and started licking me on the face. “HA HA HA! Stop that! I told you that tickles!”

“Sorry, but I couldn’t help myself.” Kodi replied with a grin, letting his tongue out a bit. We all began to laugh, seeing the bond between me and Kodiak. Thanks boy, I really needed that. Though, I’m finally glad that Rainbow Dash finally chose the tortoise now. Though, she is right, the true meaning of owning a pet is to show how you truly love them and far you care for them like how Tank tried everything to gain Rainbow’s approval. 

Meanwhile
Somewhere on the cliff of Ghastly Gorge, the mysterious figure villain is seen watching over Ren and friends celebrating off a mile away.

“Great…just when those boulders was about to crush and kill that foolish mare, those humans along with that tortoise came over and saved her. If I just eliminated her and the rest of the bearers, I could’ve taken the Elements of Harmony back. Those Elements were mine and belong to me only. If I hadn’t been sleeping and those princesses found them 1,000 years ago to seal Discord in his statue prison, then I could’ve used them to teach these ponies and everyone in the entire world true fear. Tell me Elements of Harmony, why choose these girls as your protectors? Is it because…you’re afraid of me?”

The figure threw a smirk and said “Well then…I guess I’ll take my leave then. Farewell for now, Ren Loodan and friends.”

With that, the figure disappeared out of sight without leaving any trace behind.




The Next Day
Okay, so where is she? She said she would be here now. We arrived to the park today like she asked as we began waiting for her. Kodi was playing around with Rosy, making sure that the little kitten didn’t get herself hurt. Yep, Kodiak is acting like an older brother for Rosy, that’s nice to see.

“It’s been half and hour, where could they be?” Mason wondered.

“M-maybe they forgotten?” Jamie guessed. “I-I mean, after what happened yesterday, maybe Rainbow Dash just forgotten and is taken a break for her wing to be healed?”

“I don’t know, Dash would never back down from a promise.” I said.

“Yeah! That’s what makes her Rainbow Dash! She awesome!” Pinkie added.

“Exactly Pinkie!” I nodded in agreement before hearing something. “Hey, what’s that sound?”

“It sounds like…a propeller?” Kaede thought.

“Hey guys! Look!” Kodi pointed, lying next to Rosy as he pointed his paw over to the hill. That’s when we saw Rainbow Dash flying over with an excited grin on her face.

“Hey guys! I’m back!” Rainbow called.

“There you are. What took you so long?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Just putting something for Tank to wear to help me with my flying problems.” Rainbow replied, much to our confusion. What is she talking about? Suddenly, that’s when we heard the propeller sound again. “Oh yeah! Come on Tank! Don’t wanna be late for the Pony Pet Playdate!”

As she flew down towards us, we saw Tank…flying?! Apparently, he was attached with some contraption with a propeller around his shell and is seen wearing goggles as he flew down towards us.

“W-what?!” Jamie exclaimed.

“Whoa, Tank’s flying!” Carrie giggled.

“And I take it you were the one behind it, right?” I asked with a smirk.

“Yep!” Rainbow nodded. “I found a bunch of spare parts around the area and thought of using it to make that for Tank.”

“Well I gotta say, that’s pretty impressive.” Mason smiled.

“Y-yeah, though I’m shocked to see that you were able to make something like that for a tortoise.” Jamie said in surprise. “I never would’ve thought of something like that. Hmm…I better remember this for when we’re able to get back home.”

“Jamie, just relax and calm down.” Twilight assured with a soft grin. “Come on, let’s just enjoy with our pets and friends. You do need a break.”

“She’s got you there, Jamie.” I said, which made Jamie looked at her for a moment before sighing and said “Yeah, I-I guess so. I’ve haven’t been out lately…so sure, I guess.” 

That’s what I wanted to hear Jamie. Soon, he and Twilight began playing around with both Spike and Owlicious while the others played with their pets.

“You know, I’m very glad Rainbow taken Tank as her pet.” Fluttershy said as she and Kaede stood next to me. “Even you Kaede for picking that baby kitten. I raised her just two months ago, but she’s quite a little shy.”

“No worries Fluttershy, I’ll take good care of her. And I think Kodiak will do the same as well.” Kaede pointed out as we saw Kodi snuggling Rosy next to her as she let out a meow before falling asleep, causing us all to laugh. 

Well Kodiak, you may have now grow a little bigger like probably in your teenage years, but you’ll always be a big softy and older brother figure to that little kitten. But even so, you’re the best friend a guy like me could ever ask.
To Be Continued
> Chapter 36 - The Mysterious Mare Do-Well And The Mighty Masked Justice
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well I got nothing to do except reading one of my favorite Manga series, My Hero Academia. It's like everyone's favorite anime series, and I've seen all the heroes. I even have all three seasons in one disc. I gotta watch it with everypony tonight or so. 

Ahh, reading this makes me feel relax and good. It's been a week since we held that Best Pet competition and Rainbow accepting Tank the Tortoise as her new pet. What's better is that Kaede gotten a new pet as well, which was Rosy the cat. Apparently, Rosy took a great liking towards Kodiak and they became fast friends...well actually, more like they have a brother and sister relationship.

"You know, you don't have to keep reading those comics of yours all day." I turned to Mason, who was busy sweeping the kitchen floor.

"First of all, this is a Manga, totally different thing. Second, these are one my favorite things to do besides playing video games and such." I responded, turning the page. I always love reading mangas like this series.

"And I would rather take a nice nap." Kodi added as he let out a yawn. He was laying on my lap, eager to take a nap at least. I smiled at him before softly rubbing his back, much to his relief.

"But still, it's a nice day outside." Mason pointed out.

"Really? Then why are you sweeping the floor?" I asked with a raised brow, putting my Manga down.

"He's got you there big brother." Carrie pointed out, playing with the two squirrels, along Kaede and Rosy.

Mason smiled at her and said "Well I'm planning on buying some more grocery from the store."

"But the only one who has the bits is me, Mason." I pointed out. "After all, I have the job as a painter here in Ponyville."

"Really? Though I haven't seen you paint anything lately." Kaede said, looking at me with confusion.

"Well I do that sometimes when I get a request from anypony around here." I replied with a smile before resuming on playing the game.

"Oh, well even so. I still think that  you should at least spend more outside." Kaede said with worried.

"Yeah! I mean, why not hang out with Fluttershy?" Kodi suggested.

"She's busy tending with her animals, and she told me that whenever she's doing that, I mustn't go there and disturb her nor the animals." I explained.

"Oh..." Kodi smiled sheepishly before getting up and stretching his back before walking over to Rosy, Nate, and Maddy. "Well even so, I rather play outside with ya, dude."

"Don't worry Kodi, after I'm done playing with my Manga, I'll go outside and play with ya. It's a promise boy." I assured before putting my eyes back on the Manga, continuing off where Izuka begins his training with All Might for the big entrance exam for the U.A. 

I then noticed both Carrie and Kaede looking at each other with smirks while Kodi was playing around the Rosy and the pet squirrels, which made the husky laugh as he felt being tickled by Rosy.

"Why do I highly doubt that?" Mason sighed before hearing a knock on the door. "Huh? Who could that be?"

"I got it!" I assisted as I got up and put my Manga down in my pockets. Since it was hot today, I decided to take my sweater off, so I was wearing my Pac-Man T-shirt. Anyway, I headed over to the door, opening it and revealed to be Rainbow Dash. "Oh hey Dash, what's up?"

"Just hanging out!" Dash replied, giving me a fist-bump, or hoof-bump. Whichever comes first. "So anyway, I came to you because there's a little something I need for you to do."

"Oh really? What's that?" I asked curiously.

"I need you to paint a portrait of me!" Rainbow exclaimed with a big smug grin on my face while I looked at her surprisingly. 

"A-A portrait of you?!" I exclaimed. Okay, since when Dash wants me to paint her a picture of her?!

"What's this all about Rainbow Dash wanting you to paint a picture of herself?" Kaede asked as she and the others walked over to the door with confusion.

"You didn't hear?!" Rainbow exclaimed, looking at us in shock before pointing over to our left, seeing a huge crowd of ponies wearing a bunch of rainbow wigs on their manes, and Scootaloo was among of them.

"We love you Rainbow Dash!" They shouted, which made Rainbow make a cocky and smug look on her face.

"See that? That's my fan club, all rooting for me for saving a filly from a well, along with a baby filly nearly falling off a cliff." Rainbow explained, catching us by surprise.

"Whoa, really?!" Kodi said in amazement while Rosy meow'd at her, also impress by Rainbow's achievement to save the day.

"That's so cool! I guess that explains why you gain so many fans, huh?" Carrie asked with a giggle.

"Nah, I opened the Rainbow Dash fan club just earlier ago this morning." Scootaloo explained before saying "Even right before she saved the day in the first place."

"Wow, everypony here must really love Rainbow Dash." Kaede said, sweat-dropping a little.

"You don't know half of that." I whispered to her with a smile before turning to Dash and said "But I guess I'll do it for thirty bits."

"Yeah yeah, I'll pay ya after you finished up with the paint." Rainbow assured, waving it off.

"Rainbow Dash, don't take this too far." Mason sighed, much to our confusion.

"What in the hay are ya talking about, Mason?" Mason looked at her with a stern look and replied "Doing heroic jobs is a good deed, but getting too cocky and too overconfident about it will only lead you to consequences. You need to know what a true hero means."

"Yeah! This is my big brother you're talking here." Carrie added with a giggle and a smile.

"Hey! Rainbow Dash is a true hero!" Scootaloo shouted.

"Yeah! She can go super duper fast by the speed of light!" One of the ponies from the crowd exclaimed. 

"And she stopped two disasters from happening when she saved those ponies!" Another member of the crowd pointed out, which made Rainbow smug at Mason and said "You see that Mason? The crowd speaks for themselves. I'm a hero!"

"Okay, but remember my advice. You need to learn about the duties of a hero and realize the importance of one. I'm talking about this from experience." Mason said, crossing his arms.

"Oh right, you were a bodyguard for a cute girl, right?" Kodi said, much to Mason's embarrassment.

"R-right..." Mason replied, nearly covering his face, which was blushing red. Oh my, guess he's thinking of Elena, right?

"Well you did protected her from numerous times." Kaede added. "So I guess it makes sense why you would talk to Dash about being a hero."

"Of course, it is my responsibility to make sure that my sister and young mistress are okay." Mason said with a stern and serious expression.

"Whatever." Rainbow rolled her eyes. "But anyway, right now, I better get going and making sure that somepony needs me for another-"

"AHHHHHHH!" What the heck?! That sounded like somepony was in danger.

"Huh?! Did you all hear that?!" Kodi gasped.

"Yeah! Sounded like it was coming out of Ponyville!" Kaede exclaimed while I noticed Rainbow putting out an excited smirk on her face.

"Yes! Time for Rainbow Dash to save the day!" Dash exclaimed before blasting off, leaving a rainbow trail behind.

"Come on everypony! Let's go see Rainbow Dash go and save the day for the third time!" Scootaloo shouted as she and the other fans cheered before running back to town. For the third time? Just how come I haven't heard about this?!

"Same with us." Carrie said.

"Yeah, I'm eager to see what's going on as well." I agreed, putting up a determined look before heading back inside and grabbing my Hacking Gun and heading back out. "Now come on gang, let's go!"

"Right behind you Ren!" Kaede said with a smirk.

"Same here." Mason nodded before his two pet squirrels jumped back inside of his scarf while Rosy jumped onto Kaede's shoulder. We then moved out and headed back to Ponyville in order to find out what's happening. Ooh, I just hope we get there in time.



Just what's going on?! We finally arrived to the scene at the center of town, seeing everypony gazing at a bunch of elderly ponies hanging onto the rail of the balcony as it began to fall from the roof.

"Oh no! Somepony needs to save them!" Carrie gasped.

"Don't worry, I got this." I said, grabbing my Hacking Gun and setting it on 'Move'. Unfortunately, before I could use it, a familiar rainbow-colored appeared before the scene. 

"Never fear, your friendly neighborhood Rainbow Dash is here!" Rainbow Dash announced from above us. She immediately flew towards the balcony as it immediately broke, causing the elderly ponies to fall off till Rainbow caught it from below before it fell as she slowly placed it on the ground. After that rescue, everypony began cheering for her, making Dash grin bigger.

"Wow, she really likes getting praised." Kodi said in surprise as we all nodded in agreement.

"Tell me about it, I have a feeling that she enjoys the praising more than the saving." Kaede said.

"Exactly, this is what I fear when Rainbow Dash told us about this." Mason sighed, pinching at the bridge of his nose.

"Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash!" The crowd chanted, making Dash dancing around, enjoying the crowd's cheering for her. 

"Okay, I know Dash loves to boast about things, but I think she's taking this too far." I said with worried, getting deadpanned expressions from the gang.

"You think?" I gave Mason a sheepish smile before noticing the others and Jamie by the scene.

"My oh my, such boasting." Rarity scoffed.

"Call me silly, but this whole hero thing might be going to Rainbow Dash's head." Twilight commented.

"And being more boastful and prideful than she already is." Jamie added.

"Might?" Applejack asked, looking at them with a deadpan expression.

"You may be right, silly." Pinkie added with a giggle, causing Twilight and Jamie to narrowed their eyes at the pink pony.

"Hey everypony!" I called for them, gaining their attention as Fluttershy said "Oh hi Ren, we didn't see you all there."

"Neither did we." I replied with a grin.

"Though you're all probably wondering about Rainbow's...pride of being a hero, right?" Kaede added, which everypony nodded.

"Yeah, she only did three rescues and she's taking this too far." Jamie said with worried. "I mean, isn't being a hero means about caring about the citizens and doing it for good?"

"Well yes, that is correct." Mason nodded. "But that doesn't apply Rainbow Dash."

"Oh right...after getting to know you guys, I realize that Rainbow Dash is a pony who loves getting fame instead of doing it for good."

"Hey, don't worry you guys, I'm sure that this will blow over." I assured with a grin. "How about we get something to eat?"

"Yeah! Let's go to Sugarcube Corner! And it's all on me!" Pinkie smirked before dragging us all back to Sugarcube Corner in less than one second.

"W-what the?!" Jamie gasped, checking his surroundings. "How?!"

"It's Pinkie, that's all you need to know." Kodi answered with a light chuckle. 

"Yeah, but her randomness does bring us a smile to us all." I chuckled as we sat down before Pinkie rushed off into the kitchen and came back with a bunch of sweets.

"Now that's what I call fast service." Kodi smiled, which I nodded in agreement before taking a bite of a muffin. 

"So guys, what are we gonna do about Rainbow Dash?" Carrie asked in worried.

"Well like Ren said, this all will blow over." Fluttershy reminded her.

"But...this is Rainbow Dash we're talking here." Kaede pointed out, feeding Rosy a cupcake.

"Yeah, and the way how she's acting now, I think her ego is going way too far." Jamie added, eating a chocolate-chip cookie.

"Agree, I think Rainbow Dash needs to calm her ego down." Twilight nodded in agreement. 

"Exactly!"

Suddenly, we heard the door opened, revealing Rainbow Dash and a bunch of her fans walking into the store as Rainbow said "And then, I zoomed into the well! I knew it would be dark and dangerous, but I didn't let that stop me. Danger's my middle name. Rainbow 'Danger' Dash." 

"Since when?" Carrie whispered to her brother, who shrugged and sighed. Soon, Dash put on some shades  and made a relax position before saying "Thinking back on it, I acted pretty awesomely heroic this morning."

"Right..." Mason rolled his eyes. "More like acting awesomely arrogant to me."

"Mm-hm." Twilight and Pinkie agreed.

"Well I can understand you guys feeling angry towards her, but she's still a good friend to us. I'm sure she won't take it that far." I assured till Dash grabbed ahold me and pushed in front of the crowd.

"Hey Ren. How'd you like to be immortalized as my friend?" Dash asked, much to my confusion.

"Immorta-what?" Unfortunately, I was bombarded with flashes coming out of the camera as I tried to release my grip from her.

"You were saying?" I heard Mason asked, before seeing the raised brow from him. Soon, I noticed Spike wearing a reporter's suit and hat, along with a notepad in his hands.

"Spike, why are you dressed as a reporter?" Kaede asked.

"And are you taking notes?" Twilight added.

"Yup! I've been hoof-picked by Rainbow Dash herself to write her autobiography!" Spike grinned.

Once I was able to free myself from her grasp, Rainbow continued making poses in front of the crowd while I walked back to the group and said "Okay, you guys were right. She's taking this too far."

"Yeah, way too far." Kodi agreed. 

"More importantly, did you say that Rainbow Dash assigned you to write an autobiography?" Jamie questioned, which Spike nodded. "But shouldn't it be Rainbow Dash to write this instead of you?"

"I don't follow." Spike raised a brow.

"He means that autobiographies are supposed to be written by the pony they are about..." Twilight clarified.

"Y-yeah, exactly. T-thank you Twilight." Jamie smiled while blushing a bit.

Rainbow overheard what we're saying as she responded "Maybe for your normal, run-of-the-mill ponies. But I'm far too busy saving lives to stop and write. That's why I hired Spike as my ghost writer."

Pinkie, who was busy eating a cake, paused before spitting out the cake and exclaimed "Spike's a ghost?! AHHHHH!" 

With that, she immediately ran away out through the door while we all stared at what just happened.

"...What?" Kodi asked.

"No comment." I said with a sweat-drop.

"...Anyway..." Rainbow turned back to us with a smug look and said "Spike here writes down everything I say. Don'y you, Spike?"

"Don't...you...Spike. Got it!" Spike winked after writing down everything in his notepad.

"This is just ridiculous." Mason face-palmed.

"This way, I can stay focused on performing those acts of bravery that nopony else has the guys to perform." This really can't be happening? Come on Dash, I know you're better than this. "Yep! It takes guts. But it also takes brains." Rainbow smirked before being surrounded by small fillies, eager to get a picture of her. "And sometimes a big lunch and a nap. Being a hero is surely not for everypony, but I'm up to the challenge."

"She does realize that we also save the day sometimes, right?" Kaede whispered to Rarity, who nodded in agreement.

"Now if you excuse me, I have some more rescuing to do." Rainbow then flew out of the shop with many of her supporters following after her.

"Great, she's taking this way too far." Mason growled.

"But maybe Dash will drop all this?" Carrie assured.

"Sorry Carrie, but Rainbow Dash isn't the type of mare to drop things like this." Rarity said.

"Well there's gotta be something we can do, right?" Kodi asked in concern. 

"Yeah...we need to teach Rainbow Dash a lesson about the importance of helping others than boosting her ego." Applejack said, wanting to put an end to Rainbow's ego.

"Agreed...but what?" Kaede wondered.

"Yeah..." I rubbed my chin in thought, wondering that as well. Ponies here just love treating Dash like a hero....wait, a hero....That's it! "Guys, I think I just came up with something."

"Really?" Kodi said in surprise. "What is it?"

"This!" I exclaimed, showing off My Hero Academia Manga, much to their confusion.

"A Manga?" Fluttershy asked curiously.

"Yep, a 'My Hero Academia' comic. It's about a boy named Izuku Midoriya going to a school where they trained kids into superheroes. They're born with powers people called 'Quirks'." I explained with a tooth-eating grin.

"And how does that exactly work?" Rarity asked. 

"Wait..." Jamie thought for a while until he smiled softly and said "I think it could work!"

"What?!" Applejack asked in surprise.

"Think about it. Rainbow Dash is being treated as a hero, but what if another hero came and tried to steal Rainbow's reputation?" Jamie proposed, getting everyone to realize what he and I meant.

"What a great idea! This could actually worked." Twilight said with a grin.

"But we don't know any heroes." Fluttershy reminded us.

"We don't need to find heroes, we'll just have to create our own." I said with a smile.

"Create our own hero?" Kodi said in surprise.

"Hmm...well maybe me and Rarity can make up some costumes, so that's not a bad idea." Kaede shrugged.

"Good thinking Kaede darling." Rarity smiled gleefully. "We'll make exquisite costumes that you all will extremely love."

"But wait, if we're gonna create a hero of our own, who's gonna be the hero?" Carrie wondered.

"Yeah..." I thought for a while before gazing at Mason, which he soon noticed.

"What?" He asked in confusion.

"Are you thinking what I'm thinking, Ren?" Twilight asked with a smirk, which I nodded and replied "If you're thinking on what I'm thinking, then yes Twi."

"Seriously, what...oh no, please don't tell me that you're thinking of me being the hero, right?" Mason asked in confusion.

"But big brother, you have all the strengths and skills to be one! I know you can do it!" Carrie cheered while her brother looks at her with a hesitant look on his face.

"Carrie, I admired your enthusiasm, but there's no way I can be a hero. I'm simply just a personal bodyguard to the heir of a rich family." 

"Come on! Please!" Carrie begged.

"She's right, you know. Besides, if you don't want to be the hero, I'll do myself." I said with a grin. "After all, I always wanted to be a superhero."

"Well I'm glad you're on board with this, Ren." Jamie said with a meek smile. "But...are you even sure you can handle any obstacles in the way?"

I looked at him for a second, realizing that he was right. "Well...can't use my Hacking Gun due to Rainbow might soon figure out who my identity is."

"And I don't even have the skills or powers to fight my way through trouble." Kaede added.

"Well, guess Mason is the only candidate left." Applejack said with a smile, causing Mason to groan.

"Don't worry Mason, you'll do fine." Kodi encouraged.

"He's right! You'll do awesomely out there!" Pinkie exclaimed, appearing right in front of him while she caught us off-guard.

"Whoa Pinkie! You nearly gave me a heart attack!" I said in surprise.

"Really? How can I give you a heart attack? That's just silly Ren." Pinkie chuckled, causing me to sweat-drop while Jamie looks at her with a shocked look and exclaimed "How?! Is nobody here questioning on how did she appear right in front of us?!"

"And how many times did we have to tell you? It's Pinkie Pie, that's all you need to know." Twilight reminded him.

"Y-you know that's something I won't accept, right?!" I shook my head at Jamie exaggerating something so minor about Pinkie's randomness. Well actually, it's not that minor at all.

"Anyway..." Rarity turned to Mason with a smile and said "Mason, you have the qualifications to be the hero figure. If it makes you feel comfortable, me and Kaede will make another hero costume so that one of us can accompany you."

"Well..." Mason was still unsure about this decision until Carrie looks at him with a smile, which made Mason returned that smile back on his face. "Alright, I'll do it. I got no choice anyway."

"Exactly! You'll be an awesome hero like All Might!" I exclaimed with a grin.

"...Who?" Fluttershy asked curiously, causing me to sigh and said "I'll explain that later. In fact, after this is all done, we'll have a movie night to watch the entire season 1 of My Hero Academia."

"Well, I'm kinda not a big fan of anime..." Jamie muttered, not showing off enthusiasm about it.

"Oh trust me, once you all see this show, you'll learn to love anime." I winked while everypony rolled their eyes at me.

"You really love anime, do ya?" Kodi asked with raised brow and a smile.

"Exactly boy." And I shall never stop watching them for as long as I can live.



Later
Mason's POV
....I knew this was a bad idea. We all were at Rarity's shop where she and Kaede were preparing the two costumes for us to wear to teach Rainbow Dash a lesson. But the moment they were done wearing them, they presented it to us. The first costume was obviously for a pony, which was basically colored in dark violet and navy blue, along with a hat and a mask that covered the entire face. There were eyes colored light blue to hide the real eyes and had a big 'M' on the middle of the costume.

The second costume was entirely black with a little mix of red in it. It had a white leather fox mask and a dark cape, and the suit in question had a dark red full body jumpsuit with a black belt, elbow pads, knee pads, and black gloves, along with black boots.

"...You have got to be kidding, right?" I questioned.

"Come on Mason, me and Rarity worked very hard on them." Kaede said with a sigh. "Besides, this is what Ren described for us to use."

"Oh really?" I looked over at the boy, who chuckled sheepishly as he replied "W-well, this costume was base from Izuku Midoriya from My Hero Academia. He's my favorite character, okay?"

"Yeah but, it does look ridiculous." Jamie pointed out before gazing at the first costume. "Although, this one definitely looks very well."

"Why thank you Jamie." Rarity said with a smile. "Me and Kaede worked very hard on it. Though, I'm not sure about the second one."

"Well Ren gave me the description for it while I was a costume maker, so I gave it a try. I also added the mask just to conceal your identity." Kaede explained.

"Wow, well this costume is...something." Kodi said in surprise. "But who's gonna wear the first costume? It obviously can't be Ren. I mean, it looks like it can be worn by a mare."

"Well obviously." Twilight said, walking over to the first costume as she examined it. "Me and the other girls will be taking turns to use it to protect the citizens of Ponyville. That way, we can use our magic in different situations."

"Yeah...that sounds like a good idea." Jamie nodded, smiling over her. "And...you might look good with it, Twilight. As a friend, that's all!"

"Uhh..." Twilight looked at him weirdly as he began laughing sheepishly before hiding his face with a notebook, but I heard him muttered "So embarrassing..."

"Riiight..." Applejack cleared her throat before saying "So anyway, just remember that when there's trouble, we're gonna immediately put on these costumes to save somepony's life before Rainbow Dash does."

"And that way, she'll learn her lesson about the importance of being a hero." I said, crossing my arms before gazing at my 'costume'. "Though...do I really have to wear that?"

"Hey, if you don't wanna wear it, at least let me try it on." Ren offered.

"Thanks, but no thanks. I understand if this was your idea, but I need to talk some sense out of Rainbow Dash about the responsibilities of being a hero. It's not about glory, but for caring and protecting the good people...or ponies." 

"Yeah, I guess so." Ren sighed.

"Don't worry Ren, I'll make you another costume." Kaede sighed before smiling at Ren, who was excited to hear.

"Wow! Thanks Kay!" Ren thanked while I shook my head and grin at him. He will always be a little kid to me.

"But wait, we're gonna need to survey the area to find trouble first, but how?" Jamie wondered.

"Don't worry! You can leave it up to me!" Pinkie offered, standing in front of Jamie, catching him off-guard. "I'll just use my Pinkie Sense! That way, we can find trouble anytime!"

"P-Pinkie Sense?" Jamie questioned. "What in the world is that?"

"Oh, it's just Pinkie Pie predicting things through her body." Fluttershy explained, shocking Jamie.

"W-w-w-what?! There's no way someone can predict something based off of body spasm!" Jamie exclaimed.

"But it's true! Even I witness it!" Kodi retorted.

"Really? I never knew you could do that." Carrie said, blinking in surprise. "Do you think you can do that, Pinkie? Pretty please?"

"Sure! Just right about now, my tail is twitching!" Pinkie grinned, showing us her tail twitchy. Me, Kaede, and Jamie looked at her with sweat-drops. Just how in the world is she doing that with her tail? 

"Okay, this is just ludicrous! I'm not believing that-OW!" Jamie was hit in the head by a potted plant, which fell off on top of a shelf that was coincidentally over his head.

"Oops! So sorry Jamie! I guess I should've moved it away." Rarity said with a worried look while Jamie wiped off dirt off his head.

"It's okay Rarity, I'm okay." Jamie sighed. "Though, I still don't believe it, but I shall write this down in my journal to remember this!" 

Jamie immediately took out his pen and journal before writing them down notes about Pinkie's Pinkie Sense.

"No way! That couldn't have happened, right?" Kaede asked.

"Well I believe it! I mean, we've seen magic everyday and flying ponies along with cute fuzzy creatures, right big brother?" Carrie reminded with a smile, causing me to sigh. Well she's not wrong there.

"Well...alright." I sighed.

"Oh don't worry Mason, I think you'll look dashing once you get over the...designs, that's all." Rarity chuckled sheepishly while I shook my head and decided to test it out. I grabbed my costume and entered the dressing room. Five minutes later, I came out and allowed the others to see what I looked like.

"Whoa, you look amazing. I guess I shouldn't have doubted you, Mason." Kodi said with a smile.

"Yeah! It's a real masterpiece thanks to me!" Ren grinned.

"Yet me and Rarity worked very hard with our designs." Kaede pointed out, glaring at Ren, who smiled sheepishly at her.

"So anyway, you look very well Mason, and maybe more manly if I saw those muscles of yours." Rarity said with a happy sigh. 

"Maybe next time...." I assured, but I knew that I wouldn't because it'll just be embarrassing just to flex my muscles in front of women like that, or mares. "Anyway, who's coming with me then?" I asked.

"Ooh! Ooh! Pick me! Pick me!" Pinkie offered, waving her hoof around.

"Are you sure about that?" Applejack asked, having doubts of this.

"After seeing all the craziness from her, I highly doubt it as well." Jamie agreed, also having doubts of having me team up with Pinkie.

"Oh don't worry. Pinkie will be useful. They'll work together like in Sonic Heroes." Ren said with a smile, confusing the mares.

"What's a Sonic Heroes?" Twilight asked, much to Ren's surprise.

"You guys seriously never played video games here before, do ya?"

"Of course we have them." Twilight replied. "But we're too old for those kinds of things."

"You're never too old for video games, Twi!" Ren exclaimed.

"Can we just get over it and just let Pinkie come with me?" I asked in irritation. "You girls will take turns after one rescue."

"Seems fair to me." Kodi agreed.

"Yes, but maybe I should be left out." Fluttershy said in worried. "I-I mean, what if I fail and-"

"Flutters, don't worry." Ren assured, patting her on the back. "I believe in ya and I know you'll do successful."

Ren gave her a kiss on the cheek, causing her to blush and giggle.

"A-alright, I guess I'll give it a shot." I smiled over at them, seeing how their getting along. Their relationship reminds me of my relationship with Elena. I wonder just how she's doing...I don't know how long it'll take for us to wait for our way back home. I...I just want to be with Elena...she must be really worried without me...

"HEEEEEELP!" What the heck? Did somepony just called for help?!

"Uh oh! Looks like you guys need to go now!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Yeah! Good luck big brother and Pinkie!" Carrie cheered. "And please be alright."

"Carrie, I'll be fine." I assured, ruffling her hair a bit, which made her laugh. "Besides, this is your older brother you're talking about."

"Yep! He's like a ninja!" Pinkie added, causing us to give her weird looks. I'm not going to bother to correct her that I'm nothing like a ninja. 

"Anyway..." Twilight cleared her throat before turning to us. "Now hurry before it's too late!"

"Don't worry! I'm already prepared!" We turned to Pinkie, who was already wearing the costume, much to our surprise.

"B-b-b-b-but..." Jamie looks at her in shock, probably having a minor stroke right now.

"Whoa! Calm down Jamie!" Kodi said in surprise while Twilight came over and patted him on the back and said "Don't worry, trust me, I've been through what you've gone on."

"Okay, we'll be back! Let's go!" I said with a determined look before putting on my mask. I can barely see through this thing, but I think I'll be alright. "Oh wait, please take care of Nate and Maddy. Here."

I let both my two squirrels out of my scarf as they jumped out of my scarf, and onto Carrie's shoulders. After that, I gave Rarity my scarf for safekeeping.

"Please take care of them. They're very special." I said with a serious look.

"You got it Mason!" Carrie nodded.

"Same as well, darling." Rarity smiled as I turned to Pinkie and said "Let's go Pinkie!"

"Okie-dokie-lokie!" Pinkie nodded, but I think she's smiling through that mask she's wearing. We immediately ran out of the Carousel Boutique, but it was lucky for us that nobody bothered to see us as they were looking at the sky, which we noticed before seeing a hot air balloon about to fall down with a pony in it.

"Crap!" I muttered. How am I supposed to go up there and save her?!

"Quick Masey! Jump onto the rooftop and try to save her before she falls!" Pinkie exclaimed, pointing to the rooftop. I realized what she meant and nodded before jumping and climbing to the rooftop, along with Pinkie as we reached to the top and we began jumping over roof after roof till we jumped high as we could and with Pinkie's help, we managed to grab the poor pony out of there before it came crashing down. I firmly held the pony in my hands before we landed on the ground, softly putting her down.

“Are you okay young mare?” I asked in worried, which made her smile and said “I am! Thank you so much mister!”

I nodded before me and Pinkie began leaving the area, but as we reached a mountain, which the sun shone brightly on. We looked back at the crowd, even the mayor, looking back at us in amazement. 

“We really did awesome!” Pinkie whispered to me, which I nodded before noticing Ren, Jamie, and Twilight, who gave us a look that told us that we did a good job. Well, I don’t know about you, but looks like we need to get out of here before ponies start asking questions.

We immediately got out of the scene, leaving everypony with questions of our appearance, but hopefully that they don’t know the obvious that it’s me.



Later


As soon as we recruited back to our home-ship, where everypony else met up with, we discussed what happened.

“You were amazing big brother!” Carrie cheered. “I told ya you make an awesome hero!”

“Same here dude.” Ren added with a grin before patting me on the back. “I kinda guess I couldn’t make it out, but l’m sure I’ll get a chance. Maybe being your sidekick.”

“Yeah…no.” I shook my head, disappointing Ren before turning to Twilight and Jamie and asked “So what happened when me and Pinkie saved the day or whatever?”

“Apparently, after you rescued that pony from the crash, the Mayor dubbed you as the ‘The Mysterious Masked Justice’ and the other your partner ‘The Mysterious Mare-Do Well’.” Twilight explained.

“Masked Justice? Mare Do-Well?” I asked with an incredulous look. Are you kidding me right now? What kind of superhero name is that? 

“Ooh! This is awesome!” Pinkie bounced around the living room in a merry way. 

“Well yeah, and after you guys saved her, I noticed Rainbow scoffing at you two saving her and boast about going to be a better hero than them.” Jamie explained with a worried look. “Ooh, this could be tough. Who knows what could happen.”

“Well, you got the Mysterious Mare-Do Well and the Masked Justice on the case!” Twilight grinned.

“Yep! We’ll do great!” Kaede added.

“And hopefully it’ll teach Dash a lesson, but in a hilarious way.” Kodi chuckled. “I mean, I think after you two rescue that pony from falling out of the sky, she might’ve been jealous.”

“I was thinking the exact same thing.” Applejack laughed. 

“Well I’m glad that rescue is over for now.” I sighed, sitting down on the couch. “Guess I’ll just wait till the next time trouble shows up.”

“While at it, maybe you should come up with some cool catchphrases?” I looked at Ren with a raised brow and asked “Catchphrases?”

“Come on Mason, every hero comes up with awesome catchphrases! I mean, now that you and the girls are going to be heroes, I was thinking maybe come up with awesome lines and catchphrases.” Ren explained with a grin.

“But we’re just temporary heroes.” Jamie pointed out. “I-I mean, this is only teaching Rainbow Dash a lesson about being a hero, right?”

“Well true, but it’s pretty fun doing it.” Fluttershy admitted.

“You’re right about that. It is pretty fun doing this.” Twilight grinned, causing Jamie to softly smile and said “R-right…I see why not.”

“Thanks, but no thanks. I’m not good at coming up with stuff like that.” I said, lying down on the couch while looking over at the ceiling.

“Well I guess I’ll come with stuff like that.” Ren shrugged.

“And I’ll help too!” Carrie offered. Why don’t those guys bother to listen to me?

“You guys…” Kaede sighed with a smile while she fed Rosy some milk. Though, I’ll have to admit, this ‘hero business’ really is something. Actually, come to think of it…

“I’m now realizing this, but nopony is questioning that Masked Justice stands and looks human, you know?” I pointed out.

“Oh yeah, I forgot about that.” Twilight said. “Apparently, the moment everypony saw you and Mare-Do Well, apparently they thought it was another human, but Ren had to make up a little lie that it was an alien warrior from the far lands of Equestria, and surprisingly, it worked.”

“Really?” I asked, giving Ren with an incredulous look.

“What? I had to do something. Think of it as concealing your identity. Every hero needs a backstory, either tragic or not, it was worth it. Your welcome by the way.” Ren grinned. I couldn’t help but smirk at him, even as a clueless boy, he’s got my back. I admire that.

“Uh oh! Twitcha-twitch-twitch-twitch!” Pinkie called, showing us her twitchy tail.

“What the heck?! She wasn’t kidding?!” Jamie exclaimed.

“Of course she didn’t.” Kodi said bluntly. “I mean, you did seen it before, right?”

“Right, but I think that hit in the head caused me to have my memories fuzzy.” Jamie admitted with a sweat-drop. “But anyway, you need to go now!”

“Fine!” I nodded, grabbing my costume and immediately putting it on, along with the mask. “So who’s going?”

“I’ll go!” Applejack offered. “You might need me along the way.”

“Alright.” With that, Applejack took off her hat and put on the Mare-Do Well costume before we ran out of the home-ship and rushing into town without anypony noticing. We looked through the alleyways till we saw a carriage carrying a bunch of pony tourists in there as it was rolling through town in an uncontrollable way.

“Why is today having so much trouble than it usually does?” I questioned.

“No time! Let’s just go!” Applejack exclaimed, pushing me out along with herself in front of the scene. Unfortunately, Rainbow Dash flew into the scene and flew next to the run away cart. I can already hear what they’re talking about as Rainbow said “Never fear, your friendly neighborhood Rainbow-”

“Excuse me, uh, do you think you could skip your catchphrase and just hurry up and save us!” One of the ponies in the cart shouted. Really Dash? A catchphrase? She still needs to learn about being a hero.

“Ugh, fine! Picky, picky.” Rainbow rolled her eyes before flying in front of the cart in attempt to stop it, but it backfired. “WHOOOOA! AAH!” Unfortunately, she was instead ran over by it, lying flat on the road with the carriage marks all over her.

“…I almost feel mighty bad for her.” Applejack shook her head.

“Same here.” I sighed, almost about to have a headache due to Rainbow’s stubbornness on getting fame. “Come on, let’s go finish the job and fast.”

“You said it, partner!” Applejack nodded as we jumped into the scene and faced the run-away carriage. Alright, remember your training, Mason. You endured ton of stuff like this. This shouldn’t be a problem, besides you got Applejack by your side. After witnessing her strength on knocking some apples out of a tree, this shouldn’t be a problem. “You ready Mason?”

“Ready as I’ll ever be.” I said with a smirk before we charged towards the carriage and planted ourselves in front of it, and before you know it…OOF! We were being pushed by the carriage along with itself, but I can feel it slowing down. As soon as we managed to stop, the ponies poked their heads out of the window and started cheering loudly for the rescue. 

“Phew…” I said in relief before looking back, only to find myself and Applejack near a cliff, much to our surprise. "Okay seriously, how did we not noticed this?"

"I honestly have no idea." Applejack shrugged before we disappeared from the scene and jumped over some hills, making sure nopony was looking out for us. We arrived back to the alleyway, and saw no pony was following us.

"Good job dude!" We turned around to see Ren and the others walking over to us with smiles on their faces. "Way to go stopping that crash!"

"Thanks, I guess." I replied as me and Applejack took off our masks. "Although, what the heck is up with all these troubles happening today?"

"That I wonder too." Jamie agreed. "Though I'm glad that you two are alright. When we see you two were gonna go down along with the carriage cart, I was so worried, but I guess I just have to believe in you guys."

"That's sorta nice to hear." I smiled.

"Yes, and you're quite more stronger than I would have imagine, Mason." Rarity said, smiling over me. "But you know, you had us worried when we saw you two nearly gonna fall, thank goodness that you're still alive and well."

"Thanks, I guess." Applejack replied with a shrug. 

"Ooh! Ooh! Twitchy!" Pinkie called, directly pointing to the other side of town. "And it's coming from over at the construction site!"

"At a construction site?" Jamie asked in shock. "Uh oh, you guys better get going."

"Fine, but who's turn is it?" I asked.

"Don't worry, I think Applejack might be helpful in it again, so good luck." Twilight smirked.

"And remember, good luck and come up with a cool catchphrase!" Ren grinned while I gave him a soft smile at his childish and put back on the mask and said "Sorry, but that's not my thing. This is just something we need to do in order to get Rainbow Dash to learn her lesson about being a hero."

"Okay..." Ren sighed before me and Applejack headed out to the other side of town, heading straight into the construction site. We finally arrived to the site, seeing building materials falling out of the sky, and the construction working ponies running around in panic. 

"Alright, let's get this over with." I said in a deep dark tone, which Applejack noticed.

"What's up with the voice?" 

"Just something to make sure nopony here identifies my voice." I answered before making our move. As we ran into the scene, we saw Rainbow Dash here as well, attempting to save them while stating out her stupid catchphrase, but got cut-off due to being too many objects stopping her. Oh for god's sake! Why can't she just stop doing that?! 

"You grab the two workers over there, I'll grab the other over here!" I called, which 'Mare Do-Well' nodded as we ran towards the help the workers. Before one of the objects fell on them, I managed to grab them and move them out of the way before it fell on top of them. I kept side-stepping my way out of the falling debris and moved out of the way, along with Mare Do-Well, who also had the two workers as well before the building collapsed into pieces.

"Thank you so much Masked Justice and Mare Do-Well!" One of the worker ponies said in joy. 

"It is quite alright." Me and Mare Do-Well nodded.

"By the way, we noticed that you walk on two. Are you a human?" The workers asked, but I shook my head and replied "No, I'm just an alien warrior from the far ends of Equestria."

I feel real embarrassed on saying that right now in front of them.

"Oh, so that orange maned kid was right, he really is an alien!" So they just believed it? That's it? Huh, these ponies are too naive to fall for anything. 

"Well Mare Do-Well and Masked Justice..." Oh great, and looked who decided to finally show up. We turned around to see Rainbow Dash walking towards with a smug look on her face while the fifth worker that she managed to save at least seemed pretty heartbroken. "...Or should I call you Mare Do-Slow and Masked Injustice?"

Me and Mare Do-well looked at each other and shook our heads. Looks like Rainbow Dash still hasn't learned her lesson, hasn't she?

"You're gonna have to pick up the pace if you wanna compete with me, cause I move like lightning." Rainbow boasted.

"Actually, they saved all of us! We own them our lives!" One of the workers exclaimed, which made Rainbow make an immediate frown and fell to the ground.

"Thank you, but I was just doing my job." I said, keeping up with my deep dark voice. "I'm just looking out for everyone and making sure they're safe. Unlike you."

"Wait...what you say to me?!" Rainbow got back up and glared at me. I know she can't see my eyes through this mask, but she must've saw through my narrowed eyes and stern look I was giving her. 

"Tell me, what's the meaning of a true hero?" I asked.

"Duh, it's...uh..." Rainbow rubbed her cheek in embarrassment, unable to answer that.

"Until you learned what it truly means, you'll never be a hero." I said as Mare Do-Well and I began running off, and I looked back to see Rainbow with an angry look and the construction workers chasing after us. Okay, that's it! Time to go back home!



Later
"Ugh...." I muttered, laying down on the couch in our comfy home. 

"Don't worry Mason, you take some rest for now." Rarity used her magic to cover me with a blanket, which I accepted.

"Thank you." I smiled while the others were discussing what to do now.

"Looks like Rainbow Dash is nearly breaking. I think it'll time for her to realize the error of her boasting ego." Jamie said, writing some notes down in his journal.

"Yeah! Just now, everypony is starting appreciating Mare Do-Well and the Masked Justice." Kodi pointed out, looking out the window with his tail wagging. Apparently, everypony over at Ponyville were holding a fandom convention out there in honor of Mare Do-Well and the Masked Justice for our heroic deeds, despite us having the same amount of rescues Rainbow Dash did today. Like seriously, are these guys more naive than Ren?

"Yeah! I even gotten like 50 requests to pain them portraits of Mare Do-Well and the Masked Justice." Ren said, finishing up the final touches of his painting before showing it off to us. I glanced at the painting of his, which made me feel impressed by it. It showed the two superheroes of Ponyville on top of a building and standing in a heroic pose.

"Wow, that's amazing!" Carrie said in joy.

"Yeah, I guess business is booming, eh?" Kaede chuckled, which made Ren grinned. I soon got up from my chair and look at them with a serious expression.

"Guys, are you sure this is part of the plan? Getting appreciate for the work and getting an amount of glory?" I asked. "We're supposed to wear these outfits, pretend that we're heroes, and save pony's lives. I care for the citizens, not all this honor and glory and such. It's not my thing."

"Yeah, he does raise a good point." Fluttershy agreed, which made everyone a little sad about that.

"You're right Mason, sorry if we've acted this way." Twilight apologized.

"Wow, I feel like we turned into Rainbow Dash for a second there." Ren said in worried.

"More reason why we need to put an end to this." Kaede said in determination.

"Ooh! Ooh! I feel another twitch!" Pinkie exclaimed, much to our shock. 

"Really?! Where is it coming from?!" Jamie asked in worried. 

"Probably somewhere where somepony accidentally did something too stupid and is trying their best to fix it up, but is making things worse than before."

"....What?" We all asked in confusion.

"...You might want to go and check the Ponyville dam." She clarified.

"Alright...let's get to it." I said, putting back on my mask.

"I'll come along." Fluttershy said, surprising us all. "I-If you all want me to or not..."

"Actually...you might be useful, along with you Twilight." I said with a soft smile, surprising them all before they all nodded with determined looks. Fluttershy immediately put on the Mare Do-Well costume and I gotta say, I can't even tell if that's even her.

"Alright, I guess I'll come too. Just in case the dam overflows too 

"Alright, p-please be safe you three." Jamie warned us. "B-but if you want, I guess I-I'll come too..."

"We'll be fine." I assured as me, Fluttershy, and Twilight immediately ran out of the place, leaving everypony behind.

"...So wait, we have a dam?" Ren asked in confusion.



Huh, well this shouldn't be too bad. We finally arrived to the Ponyville dam, and only found a small crack on the wall. Should be easy enough...

"If the dam breaks, the whole town will be flooded! Looks like Ponyville needs a hero!" Huh? Oh crap...her again. What's Rainbow Dash doing here? We looked over and saw Rainbow Dash placing a hoof on it, causing me to face-palm. She can't be seriously, is she? "Easy peasy."

Unfortunately, the moment she did that, it only made the crack more bigger that it was before. 

"Oh my god..." I muttered in annoyance, seeing Rainbow only making things worse than before. 

"My game is officially back on. If only somepony were here to pat me on the back." Really? Apparently, she took her hoof off the crack and patted herself on the back. Did...did she really took that phrase literally? 

Suddenly, once she released her hoof out of the way, the dam immediately broke into pieces, sending a wave of water on Rainbow Dash and dragging her down.

"Help! Help!" Rainbow shouted.

"Quick! We need to save Rainbow Dash!" Fluttershy exclaimed, which I nodded and asked "Think you can carry me?"

"N-no, I'm not that strong." Well that's just great.

"I can try to use my magic to carry you Mason!" Twilight assured. "Now go!"

We nodded before I jumped down, feeling Twilight's aura surrounding me as I swooped down as Fluttershy and I managed to grab Rainbow Dash out of the water while Fluttershy put down a log in front of the flowing water. With that, I softly put Rainbow Dash on the ground, much to her joy.

"Phew, I thought I was a goner there!" Rainbow sighed in relief before looking up, seeing me flying in the air, much to her shock and anger. "What the?! YOU?! Oh so this is the part where I thank you, huh? Well forget it! No way I'm thanking you and Mare Do-Well!"

"I don't want to be thanked. I was just doing my job." I replied in a stern tone. "That's the importance of being a hero. Caring for others instead of receiving fame and glory."

"Blah blah! Who cares?!" Rainbow scoffed before narrowing her eyes and asked "Hey....you look familiar..."

"Umm..." Before any of us could say anything, we saw a bunch of rocks and trees blocking the Ponyville dam, completely making the water stop flowing. Looks like Twilight managed to stop the dam. That's a relief.

"Huh?! How?!" Rainbow gasped before noticing Mare Do-Well flying in the air. "Did Mare Do-Well did that? What? Is she an alicorn or something?!"

Technically, that was Twilight using her magic, but since nopony realizes that, it makes sense for them to theorize that Mare Do-Well might be an Alicorn. 

"Hey wait a minute..." She slowly turned to me with a suspicious look on his face. "Did you do that?"

"....No." I replied before running off and jumping into the forest tree branches, disappearing along the way while avoiding Rainbow Dash. Hopefully, she doesn't learn the truth.



Later
"That was awesome Mason!" Ren cheered.

"Yeah yeah, whatever. Don't praise me. Just doing stuff what a hero would've done." I said, drinking some water. Soon after restoring the dam, we regrouped back at Sugarcube Corner, enjoying...let's just say, a victory snack.

"You really don't like to be praise, do you?" Jamie asked.

"Yes."

"But why not? I understand that you don't like being thanked, but why?" Kaede asked curiously. I sighed and replied "It's...not who I am."

"But sometimes people and ponies gotta thank you for your heroic deeds, big brother!" Carrie grinned. 

"Yeah, but I don't wanna turn into a glory-hogging fool like Rainbow Dash." I sighed.

"Speaking of which, seems like she's starting to have doubts on doing the hero business." Twilight said with a smile. "This really was a great idea, you guys. Now hopefully Rainbow Dash will learn the importance of being a hero."

"Yeah, but thank goodness we managed to save her before she was swept away in the water." Fluttershy said in relief.

"Yeah, good thing Twilight managed to fix the dam." Ren grinned.

"Yeah, your magic is really powerful! You need to teach me!" Jamie begged, which made Twilight sweat-dropped and smiled nervously at him.

"W-well...I'm not sure it's possible due to you guys having no magic inside of ya. But maybe we can conjure different spells that I've always wanted to try." Twilight offered, taking a bite of a muffin.

"Yes Twilight! That would be wonderful! Thank you for the offer!" Jamie nodded excitedly, causing us all to give him sweat-drops. This guy acts like Twilight...

Suddenly, we heard the door opened, revealing an extremely annoyed Rainbow Dash walking in, along with Spike. He's still doing the autobiography thing? Doesn't he even get tired out?

"Oh hey Dash! What's up?" Ren asked with a smile.

"Just...feeling...awesome right now..." Rainbow grumbled, walking past him before pounding her hooves on the ground and laying near the staircase with a bumped out expression.

"Poor Dashy, she's seemed real sad." Kodi said in worried.

"Meow..." Rosy said, feeling bad for her as well. 

"Don't worry Rosy, I'm sure we can cheer her up." Kaede assured.

"Right..." Applejack nodded as the mares made smirks on their faces. "Gotta hand it to those two heroes...that Mare Do-Well and Masked Justice sure can pull off some pretty heroic feats."

Are they trying to insult Rainbow? Hmm, come to think of it...Rainbow Dash will face a challenge whenever she feels insulted...hmm, I see what they're trying to pull here.

"Yeah, I gotta say that they're really something." I said with a small smirk on my face. "They're quite the heroes."

"Yeah, I was even impressed by that spell Mare Do-Well used to fix the dam. Seems like something like that would take quite a bit of study." Twilight said aloud, hoping that it will make Rainbow Dash feel determined again.

"They really care about everypony's safety." Fluttershy smiled brightly.

"Yeah, thanks to them. Ponies been making tons of request on making some arts of them, and I've been making tons of bits." Ren said, showing us a jar filled with bits. Huh, I'm impress that he managed to make a lot of paintings in time for his clients.

"Yep! They're so cool looking!" Carrie added.

"They're truly awesome." Kodi agreed.

"Yeah, they're really...umm...something." Jamie chuckled nervously.

"And have you seen their costumes? Pretty sweet." Kaede smiled.

"I was thinking the exact same thing, darling!" Rarity grinned as she walked over to our table with a teacup floating in mid-air due to her using her magic as she said "It is to die for! If you ask me, they're a hero of fashion!"

"And they're modest and humble." Applejack added, giving me a wink. "She let her actions speak for themselves. Gotta admire that."

"I don't have to admire that!" Rainbow shouted. "I don't think she's all that great!"

"She's...great." Spike wrote down, upsetting Dash as she exclaimed "I didn't say that!"

"Rainbow Dash...are you jealous?" Kodi asked, surprising her.

"Who, me?" Rainbow asked in shock.

"Rainbow Dash is jealous." Spike wrote down, annoying Dash as she exclaimed "D-don't write that, Spike!"

This caused everyone, except me, to laugh.

"Correction Spike: Rainbow Dash is very jealous." Ren added, which Spike nodded.

"Sure Ren!" Rainbow growled angrily at us as she looked back at us and said "Fine! Laugh all you want, but I'll be the one laughing when I prove to you all that I'm just as good...no, I'm a better her than Mare Do-Well and Masked Justice!"

"Rainbow Dash..." I looked at her with a serious expression and said "Don't you even hear yourself? I think Mare Do-Well and Masked Justice have something that you don't have?"

"And what's that? Having everypony admire them?!" Rainbow scoffed, crossing her forelegs. I let out a sigh and clarified "No, that they care about others. You know, heroes don't always fight just to be famous. They do it in honor and protecting the ones they love so much. I know this by experience due to my bodyguard services with Elena."

"Yep! Big brother is a real hero Rainbow Dash!" Carrie added with a light giggle.

"Fine! Make all the good arguments ya want! I just don't want those two show-offs trying to steal all my fans!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"Rainbow Dash, that's not what Mason-"

"Not now Kay! I'm going get all my pride back, no matter what!" With that, she took off out of the shop, leaving us with worried and concern expressions.

"Do you think we might've gone too far?" Jamie asked.

"Yeah, we were only doing that just to encourage Rainbow Dash, but seems like we encouraged her too far." Rarity admitted.

"Yeah, seems so." Kaede sighed. "Hopefully that she doesn't do anything too stupid."

"...Somehow, I highly doubt that." I sighed, crossing my arms.

"Yeah, this is Rainbow Dash we're talking here." Applejack reminded us.

"Well, let's just hope things doesn't get in the way between Mare Do-Well, Masked Justice, and Rainbow Dash." Kodi said, hoping that it wouldn't happen. But something told me in my heart that it was gonna happen.



The Next Day
...Well, there's still nothing in this room. After yesterday of those string of events of being heroes, it was starting to get late as we headed for bed. I got some rest, but as I woke up from 4:00 A.M., I headed back to the white room from Ren's room, examining it for clues. The five pods that we appeared from...these must have the answers, right? I don't remember what happened or how I ended up in this place. All I know that I'm stuck here till we find some way to get to our world. But just how long? 



 Suddenly, I was found around town, but find the castle's town was nearly in ruins, each destroyed by the ones that are fallen down from the skies. The meteors...

"Big brother...I'm scared." Huh? Was that...

"Mason! Why is this happening?!" I felt myself being hugged as I looked down to find myself hugged by Elena and Carrie, who were crying in fear and held onto me. 

"I don't know...but at least we managed to get everyone evacuated." I assured, hugging them back. Wait, what am I even saying? Suddenly, we saw another meteor crashing down somewhere near us. We gasped upon feeling another one crashing down into town. These meteors caused our town to be destroyed! Sure I was able to save everyone from this disaster, but it destroyed our home!

"Hm?" Carrie looked over, spotting where the last meteor that just fell down. She immediately ran over to the scene.

"Carrie! Wait!" I called as me and Elena chased after her till we saw her staring at the meteor, and strangely enough...it was glowing. It had this red color, and didn't look that much ominous, and was the size of our heads.

"Wow..." Carrie muttered.

"I've never seen a meteorite like this." Elena said, surprised by the glowing meteor.

"Yeah..." I nodded before bending down and attempting to touch it. 

"Hey big brother, what are you doing?" Carrie asked curiously.

"I don't know why, but this thing is just...there's something off with it." I replied, before placing my hand on the rock. Suddenly, the moment I touched it, I was immediately zapped and began feeling something coming out of the meteor!

"Mason!" Carrie gasped before trying to get my hand out of the rock, accidentally placing one of her arms onto the rock and began feeling the effects as well.

"Mason! Carrie! What's wrong?!" Elena asked in shock. "CARRIE! MASON!"



AH! W-what was that? Was that another memory? Probably Princess Luna managed to unlock another piece of our memory. Strange though, is it even our memories? I don't remember anything of what I just saw. The castle's town being destroyed into ruins, and that meteorite....just what was that? Oh well, won't be able to find anything just staying around here.

I took my leave out of the white room, coming back to Ren's room before noticing that Ren and Kodiak weren't in here anymore. Must've woken up. Well at least he isn't slouching around like a hobo. As I left Ren's room, I found him, Carrie, Kaede, and Jamie talking with the girls.

"Oh hi Mason! There you are!" Pinkie waved at me, noticing me and gaining the others' attention.

"Mason! Where were you?!" Carrie asked in concern. "When I woke up, you weren't there! I-I thought you were gone. Not after that nightmare I had!"

"Nightmare?" I asked in confusion.

"We came by to let you guys know that there's going to be a ceremony to appreciate the joy of Mare Do-Well and Masked Justice." Fluttershy explained. "But once so, Ren opened the door and we heard a scream, and ran upstairs to your room, finding Carrie awoken and crying."

"I felt so bad for the darling, but stroke us weird that you weren't around." Rarity said with a raised brow.

"I was in the white room." I answer honestly. "But I never heard a scream. I swear."

"Really? That scream was really loud." Ren pointed out.

"Yeah, almost like a ghost." Kodi added before shivering in fear.

"They're right...Hold on, white room?" Jamie asked in confusion.

"It's the room where we awakened. I was hoping to find some clues, but didn't found anything, but I didn't hear a scream at all." I explained.

"He's telling the truth. I can see it through his eyes." Applejack said. 

"Well alright, but how come you didn't hear the scream?" Twilight wondered.

"Maybe the white room is soundproof?" Kaede suggested.

"Whatever...Carrie, I'm sorry if I wasn't around-AH!" Carrie immediately hugged me, letting some tears out. 

"I was so scared! I had this dream that we were back home and apparently something destroyed our homes, and we saw something fall down into town, and I went over to look over it but once you and I touched it, we got hurt. I was so worried what happened to you!" Carrie cried. What? Everything she described...

"Carrie...what was this thing that fell out of the sky and what we found in your dream?" I asked curiously, wanting to confirm my suspicions.

"I don't know...I think it was this glowing rock." Carrie answered, wiping away her tears while I widened my eyes in shock. 

"But...just a moment ago, I just had that vision." I said in shock, confusing the others. "Everything Carrie described, that was the same exact thing I just visioned while investigating the white room. I...I don't understand."

"Is it another part of your memories, sugarcube?" Applejack asked in worried.

"Guess so, but this is strange." I wondered. "Carrie dreamed about this while I saw it as a vision...just what does it mean?"

"I don't know, but I'll send a letter to the princess to tell her about it." Twilight assured. "Though, I'm glad that you're comforting your little sister."

"True, it's nice to see you two get together." Rarity smiled.

"Yeah..." I nodded before looking down at Carrie and said "Sorry if I wasn't around."

"I-it's okay." Carrie wiped away her tears and smiled softly at me. "Just please don't leave me again."

I nodded, accepting her promise.

"By the way Mason, before you showed up and while we comforted Carrie for ya, Twilight and the girls said about a ceremony to appreciate Mare Do-Well and Masked Justice, and wants them to be there." Ren explained, much to my surprise.

"Really?" I asked with a raised brow.

"Rainbow Dash might come over there, so that's when we need to put our plan into action. Time for her to realize what the importance to help others." Twilight grinned.

"So how are we gonna do this?" Mason asked.

"We can't fight back, that's not hero material for someone getting jealous of you." Jamie looked down, getting worried about that.

"Don't worry, because I got a plan." Twilight assured.

"Well I hope this plan will be alright." Kaede said with a soft smile. 

"Meow." Rosy nodded, sitting on Kaede's shoulder. Yeah, same here. It's time for Rainbow Dash to learn the importance of being a hero.



Later
Well this is something. Apparently, Twilight explained the plan over to us, step-by-step. When me and Mare Do-Well sees Rainbow Dash, we need to run before she tries anything to reveal our faces to the public. Seems like an easy plan, but outracing somepony who's really fast, that might be a challenge that I can handle.

Soon, me and Pinkie, disguised as Mare Do-Well were on stage behind the curtains before peeking out, seeing everypony in town together for this. I saw Ren and the others along in the crowd, probably for back-up to let me and Pinkie know where Rainbow Dash is.

"Wowie zowie! Everypony is here! Even Pipsqueak!" Pinkie said in joy.

"Keep quiet, it's about to start." I said sternly, which she nodded. Soon, as we waited, Mayor Mare made her announcement.

"Welcome to Ponyville's first, but surely not last, thank you parade, in honor of our city's greatest hero, the mysterious Mare Do-Well and the Might Masked Justice." With that, both me and Mare Do-Well to jumped out of the banner right before I put back on my mask. We were introduced by everyone. Though, I never liked to be praise, it's not my style.

Welcome to Ponyville's first, but surely not last, thank you parade, in honor of our city's greatest hero, the mysterious Mare Do-Well and the Might Masked Justice." With that, both me and Mare Do-Well to jumped out of the banner right before I put back on my mask. We were introduced by everyone. Though, I never liked to be praise, it's not my style. "So tell us, how do you feel like being the town’s hero.“

Mare Do-Well looked at me, gesturing that I should go and speak. Alright, I guess maybe I should let them know how I feel. I walked over to the mic as Mayor Mare stepped out of the way, allowing to make myself some room.

“Umm…” I tapped onto the mic, hearing its loud screech throughout town, causing everypony, including Mare Do-Well to cover their ears in pain. “Right…anyway, greetings citizens, I am Masked Justice, and I would like to say that it’s an honor to be appreciated by you all.” Everypony cheered at me before raising my hand up, signaling them to silence. “But this is all so nice, I do not wish to be appreciated, me and Mare Do-Well was only doing our job. Being a hero doesn’t mean glory, honor, pride, money, or fame. It means protecting all those who you love and would sacrifice anything for their sake. We’ve done this for a while since yesterday, and I have inspired many of you ponies to one day to remember these words. Those are the words of what a hero means.”

After my speech, everypony paused at what I said, looking at me until one of them started clapping their hooves, and before you know it, the crowd began rooting and shouting happily. Seems to me that they got the message, I guess.

“Yes, thank you for your message, Masked Justice.” Mayor Mare thanked with a smile before I moved out the way as she got back on the mic. “Now then everypony, I hope you all that lovely piece of advice from the Mighty Masked Justice. Now then, let us thank the heroes who saved many pony lives, the mysterious Mare Do-Well and the Mighty Masked Justice.”

Everypony cheered while Mare Do-Well, or Pinkie, looked at me and winked. Huh, what’s she winking for?

“The mysterious Mare Do-Well and the Mighty Masked Justices, huh?” Oh, now I see what Pinkie was winking. We turned around, heading up face-to-face with Rainbow Dash, making the crowd gasp. “So what are you two hiding, huh? Let’s see how mysterious and might you both are without those masks!”

And this is our cue to leave. Before Rainbow could try to take the fabric off of us, me and Mare Do-Well immediately jumped out of the way and jumped off the stage before we ran away. 

“Get back here!” Rainbow exclaimed as we headed straight down the alleyway with her tailing us behind. Soon, me and Pinkie took many twists and turns around the place till we stopped and peeked out, seeing Rainbow Dash looking around in search of us.

“Hey, let’s play a trick on her. This is the best game of tag I’ve ever played!” Pinkie whispered to me, causing to roll my eyes. Though, I’ll agree on the first part on trying to get her our attention. I let out a whistle, gaining her attention as she flew down to get us. Me and Mare-Do Well ran ahead and straight to a dead end. 

“Hmph!” I smirked before jumping and climbing over the brick wall by using the bricks as stepping stools. The moment we reached to the top, we immediately ran out through the stairwell and jumped down before seeing Rainbow Dash heading our way. Mare Do-Well and I made our escape, and good thing Rainbow Dash wasn’t paying attention to know where we went as she headed the wrong way.

“Hey!” I called, gaining her attention. Once she realized that she’s been heading the wrong way, she growled angrily as we immediately ran out of there, but as we kept running, I looked back and saw that she wasn’t following us.

“Strange…where did she go now?” I wondered.

“Got you both now!” What? I turned around only to see Rainbow Dash charging at us. Oh my god-OOF! She tackled us both on the ground and held us before using her teeth to pull both of out masks off at the same time.

“I got you now Mr and Mrs Mysterious! Mystery….Huh?” The moment she took off our masks, she widened her eyes in shock upon seeing me and Pinkie Pie. 

“Surprise?” I asked, shocking Rainbow completely.

“M-M-M-M-Mason? Pinkie Pie?! What the…huh? Huh? Huh?!” Seems to me we really shocked her with the truth.

“Were you surprise Dash?” We turned around to see the others coming out of their hiding places, shocking Rainbow Dash even more.

“Twilight? Carrie! Rarity! Fluttershy! Applejack? Ren? Kaede? Jamie?! Kodiak?! What the hay is going on here?!” Rainbow demanded.

“The same reason both Mason and Pinkie are here.” Twilight answered, smiling.

“Yep! Twilight and the other girls were Mare Do-Well while Mason cosplayed as Masked Justice due to his skills of being a bodyguard.” Ren answered simply.

“B-but…how?”

“They all had a part to play.” Jamie answered. “Like for instance, Pinkie used her Pinkie Sense to save the construction workers, Applejack used her legs to stop the carriage bus, Fluttershy was the one flying around and saved you from drowning, and Twilight used her magic to fix the Ponyville Dam.” 

“Yep! Just used the old Pinkie Sense!” Pinkie grinned before noticing her tail twitching. “Oh, by the way, Jamie, duck.”

“What? OW!” Jamie was hit in the head by a fallen potted plant, which made us look up to see a pony wincing to see him get hurt.

“Sorry!” The pony apologized.

“It’s alright…” Jamie sighed sadly.

“I don’t understand…why?” Rainbow asked. “Don’t you want me to be a hero?”

“Of course we want you to be a hero.” Twilight said.

“But a real hero doesn’t brag.” Applejack winked and gestured her hooves towards me and themselves. Rainbow Dash looked at us before getting off of me and became slightly embarrassed.

“Uh, I guess I did start to brag a little…” Rainbow admitted.

“A little?” Kaede asked with a raised brow.

“Okay, a lot…”

“Rainbow Dash…” I spoke up, looking at her with a stern look. “We did this because we needed you to realize the error of your ways. I was the personal bodyguard of Elena, and I never loved being praised by others because I might turned into someone who’ll be arrogant and don’t show any care to anyone but myself. Remember my message earlier back at the thank you parade, a hero isn’t someone who gloats, brags, or tries to become famous, a true hero is someone or somepony who cares about others, and would sacrifice themselves in order to protect the ones we love, and I would never leave anyone like you guys behind.”

“Mason…” Rainbow Dash looked at me, realizing that I was right.

“Mason’s right.” Ren nodded. “Celebrating your achievements is natural. But…”

“Rubbing them in everypony’s face isn’t.” Kodi finished.

“Yeah, the only thing that should be rubbed in anypony’s face is chocolate cake.” Pinkie said, slurping loudly and licking her lips and face, causing us to giver her weird looks.

“That’s…not the point there.” Jamie said, sweat-dropping.

“What we’re trying to say is that it’s great to be really good at something, but it’s important to act with grace and humility.” Twilight explained.

“Ooooh.” Rainbow said, realizing that we were right. “That makes loads more sense. Yeah, you’re right. And I guess I should’ve also acted with grace and humility when others outshine me. Like Mare Do-Well and the Might Masked Justice.”

“Just so you know, this wasn’t my idea for a costume.” I said, glancing at Ren, who returned a sheepish smile.

“Yeah, I had a feeling about that. Especially seeing him in action and hearing that ridiculous backstory.” Rainbow rolled her eyes.

“Hey!” Ren shouted.

“She’s right about that.” Applejack nodded.

“We should’ve done Mare Do-Well instead of having both in it.” Rarity admitted, shocking Ren.

“Oh come on! I thought it would be an awesome idea to be heroes! Man, you guys are no fun.” Ren sighed, crossing his arms in a huff.

We all laughed and smiled happily to hear that we’ve managed to learn something new today.

“Sounds like something that could be used as a friendship report.” Kaede said.

“I agree Kay!” Twilight nodded. “Spike?”

“Already got it covered!” Spike came out of the blue, much to my surprise. Seriously, was he waiting for that moment to be called or something? “As your ghost writer, I’ve already penned a letter to the Princess.”

“That’s nice of you Spike, but I really wanna write it myself.” Rainbow said with a smirk.

“Aww come on! I wrote the whole thing already from what Mason said.” Spike complained.

“Okay, let’s hear it.” Rainbow offered, which Spike nodded as he cleared his throat and began reading the letter as he said “Dear Princess Cel-”

“Look out! It’s a real ghost!” Rainbow yelled, causing Spike and Pinkie to scream in fear and run away, which made us all laugh. 

“Well…” I said, picking up the letter that Spike dropped. “I guess we’ll just send it later on.”

“In the meantime, let’s head back to the home-ship and have sleepover like we promised.” Ren said with a smirk.

“Really? You really want us to watch your favorite show Ren?” Fluttershy asked in surprise.

“Yep Flutters, I gotta keep my promise. Think of it as a little gift  from me to you.” Ren shrugged. 

“I never watched an anime before…” Jamie muttered. “I guess I’ll give it a try.”

“And all this talk about heroes and stuff makes me wanna see it as well!” Carrie agreed.

“Same here!” Kodi nodded as Rosy, who was laying on Kodi’s back, meow’d in agreement.

“Well then, let’s go home and go watch some My Hero Academia! I have all the seasons!” Seriously, where do you get this stuff and how can your parents afford all this childish stuff? Oh well, glad to finally get out of this costume at last. 



Later
Like Ren promised, we watched over My Hero Academia, which I’ll admit…it’s amazing. We were at the home-ship’s Living Room watching it and I was back in my usual attire. It's good to be back in my old outfit.

“Oh dear, isn’t this show too violent?” Fluttershy asked in worried.

"Well true, but you get used to it. As long as the show doesn't get too violent." Ren answered. "Though, I've never seen it go that far before."

Apparently, we were by the second episode of season 1, seeing the main character, Izuku Midoriya trying to save the school bully, Kacchan Bakogou from trouble.

"I am quite curious to know about human anime." Twilight said in amazement. "I need to know how does humans come up with such animation."

"If you want, I'll teach ya!" Jamie offered. "I-I mean, if ya want."

"Hey wait, since when did yo know about this stuff?" Rainbow asked. 

"She does raise a good point." Rarity agreed. 

"And didn't you say that you don't know so much about anime?" I added with a raised brow, much to his realization.

"Right..." What's his problem? I wonder why Jamie's acting so weird lately...unless...

"Anyway, I gotta go do something. Be back by five." Ren got up from the chair and headed over to his room. Hmm...wonder where's he going?

"Hey big brother." Carrie called for me. "Wasn't it amazing to be a hero for once?"

"I don't know about it, I'm just glad to be out of that costume." I said in relief. 

"Yeah, but you were still awesome as ever." I couldn't help but smile at my sister. I guess she does raise a good point. I did look awesome on helping those people despite me wearing that ridiculous outfit....Good lord, I'm starting to turn into Rainbow Dash.

"I'm back!" We turned around to see Ren, wearing my hero costume, only it was smaller than my size. "It is I, the Mighty Masked Justice! So what do you guys think?"

We all looked at him with surprised looks before cracking some smiles and laughed. 

"Gotta say, you look kinda ridiculous in that Ren!" Rainbow laughed. "I prefer if it was Mason and not you!"

"Exactly what I was thinking!" Kodi laughed.

"Yeah, like I said, I made Ren another costume for himself, but seeing him in that costume is so amusing." Kaede chuckled.

"Hey!" Ren exclaimed. "Why is it that I'm always getting the boot?!"

"Sorry Ren, but for once, I agree with them. I prefer to be in that costume than you are. Which is ironic since you came up with the idea." I smirked, much to Ren's annoyance.

"Let's just...continue watching the show." Ren grumbled before sitting back on the couch with Fluttershy, Twilight, Spike, and Jamie. You know, they were right about one thing, this show really is amazing, plus seeing Ren in that outfit makes me think it was a good idea for him not to wear that. Oh well, at least it was fun while it last...not that I'll admit. I can imagine just how Elena would say if she ever dare saw me in that outfit. But besides that, I can't help but wonder...that vision. Carrie had the same thing, but in her dreams. How can that be? Are we somehow...connected?
To Be Continued
> Chapter 37 - Sweet & Elite!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Do you boys know why I love Canterlot so much?"

"Because of the sweet and awesome food around here?"

"Because of this beautiful architect that Twilight told me once?"

"Because of all the snobbish ponies?" 

Rarity ignored all our answers as she sighed "Because of everything! I may have been born in Ponyville, but I am a Canterlot pony at heart."

Yeah, I bet that's why. So anyway, here's what we got: Apparently, Twilight's birthday is this week, so Rarity decided to head over to Canterlot to prepare her a surprise birthday gift while Kaede and Carrie stays over at Ponyville to help make sure Twilight has a good birthday weekend. What's surprising was that Rarity begged me, Jamie, and Ren to come over for some helpful things when around Ponyville, which if I had to guess was because she needs someone to hold her bags. I don't mind, I was getting bored ever since we wrapped up that super hero thing last week.

"Though, can't argue with the snacks." Ren chuckled.

"Yeah, especially those delicious small cinnamon cakes." Kodi licked his lips and started drooling just in thought of those.

"Well I read a book about this place. Apparently, this is also where Princess Celestia lives in her royal palace, right?" Jamie questioned me, which I nodded and replied "Yes. We came here last time before an incident occurred."

"A-an incident?" Jamie asked in fear. "W-what kind of incident?"

"It's a long story, but we'll tell you next time." Ren said. "Right now, we should be finding a present for Twi."

"R-right..." Jamie nodded with a hesitant smile. 

"Do not fear gentle-ponies..." Rarity assured with a soft grin. "We'll be fine. I have all week to make the perfect gift for Twilight."

"And I bet it's a dress, correct?" I asked with a raised brow and smirked.

"Indeed Mason, darling." Rarity chuckled, causing to roll my eyes. Thought so. 

"Well either way, we're gonna need a place t-to stay if we want to do our work to f-find presents." Jamie explained, writing something down his journal.

"Oh yeah, you got a good point." Ren said, rubbing his chin in thought. "Hey Rarity, did you ever make reservations for a hotel?"

Rarity froze in shock before blushing a bit and replied "N-no...I'm afraid not."

"What?!" Jamie gasped. "S-so we don't even have a place to stay?!"

"Relax Jamie, we'll find a way." I assured, crossing my arms. 

"B-but how?! We're going to be living out in the streets by the end of the day!" Jamie exclaimed, causing Ren to put a hand on his back and said "Relax Jamie, we'll be fine. Trust us, like Mason said, we'll find a way."

"Exactly!" Rarity agreed. "Though, it can't be that hard, right?" Rarity chuckled.

"I guess so." I shrugged. As we continued to walk through the streets of Canterlot, I noticed some ponies, mostly the wealthiest and fancy-looking ponies were giving us stares. We've only been here a few times and yet these guys are giving us weird looks.
You think that maybe they would accept us so soon? 

“Excuse us? Ms. Rarity, Mr. Loodan, Mr. Watson, and Mr. Hunter, I presume?” Huh? We turned our left to see two Royal Guards standing towards us with serious expressions on their faces.

“Yes, can we help you?” I asked, narrowing my eyes a bit.

“We come here to take you to Princess Celestia. She wishes to see you all.” One of the guards answered.

“Really? Celeste wants to see us?” Ren wondered.

“Maybe she must’ve noticed us and wants to see how we’re doing so far.” Kodi suggested.

“Ren! P-please show some respect to the princess! Twilight told me that we need to respect her very deeply! Besides, t-they’re guards in f-front of us!” Jamie said, hiding behind me, causing me to sigh.

“Anyway, you said that Princess Celestia needs us?” I asked curiously.

“Indeed. Come with us.” The guards said in unison as we followed them and headed straight into Princess Celestia’s castle. Hmm…so the princess needs us, for what reason?



Later
“S-so you guys met this Princess Celestia before, r-right?” Jamie asked nervously. “If Twilight told me to respect her dearly, then we mustn’t upset her or do anything ridiculous!”

“Jamie, you’re overreacting.” Kodi said in a deadpan look.

“I’m just saying!” 

“Don’t worry James, we met her a bunch of times and we know she’s a very good princess and doesn’t mind a few troubles.” Ren assured with a grin.

“Though, you must stay on her good side. It’s very rude to give her nicknames, Ren.” Rarity said, giving Ren a raised brow.

“R-right…” Ren chuckled sheepishly.

“Besides, she looked and act nice from if you do anything too stupid, but she can keep calm and hide her annoyance and frustration as long as she can. That’s how Mr. and Mrs. Ortega handle when we came to their family.” I explained.

“T-that is true.” Jamie agreed sadly. “Even the nicest rich people can hide their true colors…”

Hm? Is he okay? Right, he’s the son of Mr. Watson, who is said to be the richest man in the world. He’s very serious and is cold to anyone. I wouldn’t be surprised if he hadn’t paid any attention to his own children.

“You want to talk about it?” I asked, but he shook his head and replied “N-no…I’m fine.”

That doesn’t sound like your fine.

We finally stopped in front of the giant doors as the Royal Guards that took us here opened them for us, allowing us to see the princess. Jamie was awed upon seeing how tall she was than an average pony.

“Ah Ren, Mason, and Rarity, it is an honor to see you all once again.” Princess Celestia bowed before noticing Jamie. “Oh, and this is your new friend who Twilight told me about. It is nice to meet you at last, Jamie Watson.”

“S-she knows m-my name…” Jamie muttered, his eyes widened and shivering in fear.

“Just bow.” I said sternly, which startled him before he did it.

“I-it’s nice to meet you ma’am. Sorry if I’m annoying your presence or…”

“It’s quite alright Jamie. Twilight told me a lot about you.” Princess Celestia smiled. Wonder what kind of things she told him? Probably the most obvious traits in him: doubts. 

“It’s very nice to meet you Princess Celestia. But…how did you call for us?” Rarity asked curiously.

“You see, I just received a message from Twilight and she tells me that you all were coming to Canterlot.” Princess Celestia showed us the letter as Ren received it and started reading it aloud.

“Dear Princess Celestia, my friends, Rarity, Jamie, Ren, Kodi, and Mason are coming here to Canterlot for a week as they’re having some off time here in Canterlot. Would you please let them stay in the Canterlot Castle until their week is done. Thank you.

Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle.“


“Oh wow, that’s nice of her.” Jamie said with a soft grin. “I-I never expected her to send a message to you so soon, y-your highness.”

Princess Celestia let out a chuckle and replied “Well I send a letter of reply back to her a while ago, and I escorted my guards to go see if you five were here.”

“So wait, does that mean that we get a stay here again?” Kodi asked, brightening up on that idea. “That sounds awesome!”

“Oh right, you guys send you’ve been here.” Jamie said, looking at them with confusion. 

“Yep, and the service here was awesome while we waited for Mason to come out of the hospital.” Ren explained, shocking Jamie with that information while I face-palmed for Ren mentioning that.

“W-what?! D-did something terrible happened to you?!” Jamie asked me, causing me to sigh and replied “Sorry, but that’s another time. Right now…”

I turned to Princess Celestia with a bow and said “It is a pleasure for you to allow us to stay in your castle for a while.”

“It is my pleasure, Mason.” Princess Celestia bowed with a soft smile before turning around and said “Please follow me.”

With that, we began following her and walked through the stairs while I carried our bags, while Rarity had Opal by her side. It may be tough for someone or somepony to carry these bags, but I am strong enough to carry all their stuff, especially Rarity’s.

“You sure you don’t need help?” Ren asked in concern.

“Yeah, you kinda got a lot of suitcases to carry.” Kodi pointed out.

“I’ll be fine. Thank you for all of your concern.” I smiled as we continued to walk up the stairs of the castle. We soon arrived to the top as Princess Celestia walked towards a door and opened it up for us by using her magic.

“Here we are…this is where you shall stay.” Princess Celestia said, showing us the room, which contained what any royal guest could sleep in. A large nice soft bed in Queen Size, a big mirror, and furniture that any wealthy person and pony could live.

“Oh my…this place…looks great…” Jamie muttered, glancing away. Hm? It seems like he doesn’t like the place…wonder why?

“Here? I get to stay here?” Rarity gasped, looking around the place in shock.

“Yep! This place is just as I remember.” Ren grinned while Rarity turned to him with a slightly shocked expression as she grabbed him by the shirt collar and exclaimed “You’ve been here before Ren and yet you’ve never told me that the rooms you all slept were comfy while I had to go back and forth to here when Mason was in the hospital?!”

“Again, I’m right here…” I said, putting the bags down before giving them a deadpan glare. 

“Well yeah, it’s quite awesome being here, right?” Kodi asked, while Ren nodded before Rarity let go of him as he dropped on the floor, muttering an ‘Ow’ when he landed.

“Twilight Sparkle said you all were coming to Canterlot for a visit, and asked if I might accommodate you.” Princess Celestia said with a soft smile on her face. I allowed Nate and Maddy out of my scarf and onto the soft bed, much to their delight. As they started adjusting getting comfy, they saw Opal making some room as she patted her paws delightfully on the bed, causing them to be frightened and jumped on top of my shoulder, nuzzling me out of worried.

“It’s alright you guys, I won’t let Opal eat you.” I assured before glaring at Opal, who started to go take a nap on the bed. I’m seriously going to tame that cat and teach it obedience.

“Thank you so much, Princess.” Rarity thanked with a bright smile.

“You’re very welcome.” Princess Celestia nodded.

“No, really.” Rarity rushed over and bowed to her. “This is so nice of you.”

“Yeah…it’s really nice.” Jamie sighed, settling down on one of the comfortable beds.

“It’s nothing, really.” Princess Celestia smiled. 

“Oh, but it isn’t nothing, it’s everything! I, I just don’t know what to say but thank you, thank you!” She immediately bowed and started kissing the princess’s hoof while kept saying ‘Thank you’ to her. Ren, Kodi, and I looked at each other in deadpan expressions while Princess Celestia glanced away nervously and awkwardly.

“Umm…your highness?” Jamie called with a frown. “I-I thank you so much for letting us stay.”

“Of course, after all, you all should be thanking Twilight for allowing you guys staying here.” Princess Celestia assured before slowly moving her hoof away from Rarity. 

“Well I-I thank you…” Jamie said sadly. “Also, c-can you tell T-Twilight that I said thank you, your highness?”

“I can, and also, you do not need to call me ‘your highness’. You can just call me Celestia, or Celeste in Ren’s opinion.” Princess Celestia assured with a grin, much to Jamie’s surprise as he slowly turned to Ren, who grinned back at him and winked.

“Y-yes…thank you, Princess C-Celestia.” Jamie nodded. Princess Celestia smiled as she said “I’ll leave you all to get settled. I’ll see you later. Just come by the throne room when you all feel like you can chat with me.”

“Alright, see ya Celeste.” Ren waved goodbye as she began walking out of the room.

“So Mason darling, did you put away our bags on the beds?” Rarity asked me, which I nodded and replied “Yeah, I’ll pack them up if you want.”

“No no no, that’s alright. Thank you for asking though.” Rarity smiled. 

“R-Rarity…” We turned to Jamie as he held on his journal with a questionable look and said “I was meaning to ask you, but why did you pack so much luggage? It’s only for the weekend.”

“Well Jamie, you need the most absolute necessities for when you’re going on a little trip.” Rarity explained.

“Really? That’s why?” Kodi asked incredulously. “That’s ridiculous.”

“Oh please, only mares know how it goes.” Rarity waved it off until we heard Ren’s stomach rumbling, much to his embarrassment.

“I guess I’m a little hungry.” Ren shrugged.

“Well…we’ve only gotten here since noon, so I guess we can get something to eat.” I sighed.

“Besides, it’ll be nice taking a stroll around Canterlot. It helps me think of what kind of dress Twilight wishes to make.” Rarity added.

“Just make sure it isn’t something like last time.” Ren said, much to Rarity’s embarrassment and me and Jamie’s confusion.

“R-Ren! I thought we agreed to never talk about that ever!” Rarity exclaimed.

“About what exactly?” Jamie asked curiously.

“Uhh…trust me, it’s best if you don’t know.” Ren shook his head with a serious expression on his face. Hmm…something tells me that I’ll keep his word for good.

“Indeed.” Rarity nodded before walking over to her cat, Opal, and levitated her when her horn glowed. “I’ll be right back gentle-ponies, but I need to prepare Opal to wear something to go out in the streets.”

“Oh come on!” Ren complained.

“I-is it really necessary?” Jamie asked in a deadpan expression.

"Hush hush, everypony. It'll take about five minutes, that's all." Why do I have a feeling it's going to be more than just five minutes? Rarity soon walked to the bathroom with Opal by her side as she closed the door and we waited for her to be done. 

"So guys....do you know what you're gonna get Twilight for her birthday?" Ren asked curiously.

"Not that much. Though, I bet Pinkie is planning a surprise birthday party for her while Kaede is probably picking up my sister from school." I answered. 

"Well I-I hadn't thought that much...I don't know what to get her." Jamie sighed.

"Well why not get her a book? She always has a fascination towards them." Ren suggested.

"But she has so many books! There's no way I could give her that!" Jamie exclaimed before sighing heavily "Just face it...I'm useless..."

"You know, talking like that won't build you confidence." I said sternly, causing Jamie to look at me in confusion. 

"W-what do you mean?"

"What I mean is that telling yourself that you can't do it won't lead you nowhere. You need to doubt yourself."

"He's got a point." Ren shrugged.

"R-right..." Jamie muttered sadly.

"Hey, what's up with you? Just a second, you felt sad and disappointed. Does this place remind you of home?" I asked curiously.

"Well...a little. But it's not that..." 

"Really? Then what's wrong then?" Kodi asked curiously. Before Jamie could answer, the bathroom door opened, revealing Rarity and Opal, but one look at the white Unicorn showed she wore a pink hat with a beautiful gem on it.

"Well boys, what do you think?" Rarity grinned.

"It looks awesome." Ren nodded.

"Amazing!" Kodi added.

"I-I think that's a good hat." Jamie muttered, hiding his face a bit with his journal. "Y-you look beautiful, R-Rarity."

"You look fine as always." I replied with a serious expression. 

"Excellent! Now come on boys, we got some ideas to come up with." Rarity said, walking over to the door. I walked passed her and opened it for her, much to her delight. "Oh my! Tee-hee, such a gentle-pony. Thank you Mason."

"You're welcome Rarity." I bowed as she walked over the door, along with Ren, Kodi, and Jamie before I went last and closed the door. I just hope that we'll be able to find a good place to eat so that we can go and find some gifts for Twilight's upcoming birthday.



Later
"I gotta say, who knew the cafe here in Canterlot are quite something." Ren commented with a grin.

"Tell me about it! They know how to sell good cakes!" Kodi agreed, finishing up his chocolate cakes from a bowl the waiter handed him. We were at the Canterlot Cafe, enjoying a nice and sweet lunch. Jamie just ordered a glass of water and a salad since the restaurants' here in Equestria only sell vegetables and anything ponies eat, which is not healthy for humans, but it seems Ren enjoys it. He ordered a hay sandwich and some soda while I had a glass of water and Rarity ordered some tea. Sometimes, I'll never understand how does Ren enjoy eating this stuff, but like he said once, learn to appreciate living here in Equestria for a while till we find a way back home.

"Ahh, Canterlot...what would it feel like living in a place filled with sophistication and wonder..." Rarity sighed, taking a sip of her tea before turning to me and asked "Tell me Mason darling, you told me that you lived in the Ortega Family, which were owners of a wealthy company, correct?"

"Yes?" I answered, taking a sip of my tea.

"Well, I wonder how does living in a beautiful life filled with royalty makes you feel?" So she just wants me to answer that? Hmm, well I won't mind. 

"Well to be honest, it just feels boring." I replied bluntly, shocking her.

"W-what?! Why would you say something like that?! You lived with a royal family?!" Rarity demanded.

"I know, I love my foster-family, but sometimes the rich life can be...tiring. I think even Elena can get tired with it due to her royal duties. Trust me, I know this by experience." Rarity looked at me with shock, not believing a single word from me.

"He's not wrong there." I glanced towards Jamie, taking some notes down, probably research about this city. But I know he just agreed to me. Hmm...seems to me he's also facing troublesome relationships with his family. No surprise there when you're the son of the richest man in the world.

"So anyway..." Ren cleared his throat in hopes of changing the subject. "What are we gonna do? What do you guys wanna get Twilight? I was thinking of getting her some lab equipment like tubes and such."

"Well that technically doesn't like a bad idea." Rarity shrugged. "Though I came up with a lovely gift for Twilight."

"Oh really? What's that?" I asked with a raised brow. Rarity pointed over to my right, seeing a pony with a scrunched nose wearing some weird dress, just like the other mares around here. "That sorta dress? The same one that every mare here is wearing?"

"Exactly! It's the perfect birthday outfit for Twilight! She's going to love it! Don't you all just love it, boys?" Rarity giggled. The only replied I gave her was narrow eyes while Jamie, Ren, and Kodi looked at each other, wondering if that's a good idea. Soon, the waiter came by and handed us more drinks while taking away our empty glasses before noticing what we're wearing and just scoffed.

"W-what? Is there something wrong mister?" Jamie asked worriedly.

"Nothing, that's what." He replied before walking off, leaving Jamie alone as he sighed sadly. And this is one of the reasons why I can't stand some nobles...just like Blueblood.

"Well anywho, after we finished having our lunch. I shall go and get the fabric from the store to prepare Twilight's gift for her birthday and my gratitude." Rarity said with a smile.

"Your...gratitude?" I asked. "Do you mean allowing the princess to let us stay in her guest rooms till we find Twilight's gifts?"

"Exactly! Thank for you noticing, Mason." Rarity chuckled before sipping more of her tea. Soon, she noticed something behind as she placed her tea back on the plate nervously until I noticed some foam stuck around her muzzle.

"Oh my...here, let me get that for you." I said, taking a piece of napkin from the table and wiping her face gently to get rid of that mess of her face. "There you go...good as new."

"Oh..." Rarity blushed a bit and giggled nervously before replying "Why thank you Mason, darling. I-I haven't noticed it."

"Quite."

"Please excuse our interruption." Oh great, looks like we got more snobbish rich ponies and let me tell you...that's gotta be the most ridiculous voice I've ever heard. Me and the others turned around to see a couple of ponies wearing fancy clothing. "I'm Jet Set and this is my wife, Upper Crust. We saw you from across the cafe and just had to find out..."

"Where did you get that simply marvelous chapeau?" His wife finished, creating some overly dramatic sentences that just annoys me.

"Oh that? Rarity made that." Ren answered with a grin, but the two ponies noticed him and was surprised to see him. If I had to guess, it's because we're not ponies.

"Umm...who are you? This pony's pet?" Upper Crust asked, much to Ren's surprise and Kodi's anger.

"No, I'm his pet and that's my best friend you're talking to!" Kodi growled, shocking the two fancy ponies upon seeing him talk.

"D-did that mutt just talk?" 

"Umm...if you are actually curious to know what we are, we're humans. We're new to Equestria and-" Jamie was cut off as the two couples decided to forget that we ever existed and turned back to Rarity.

"Yeah, yeah, that's great. So anyway, what my beloved wife asked...where did you simply get that marvelous chapeau?" Jet Set asked. Oh wow, that's cold. Real cold.

"Oh, this old thing?" Rarity asked, looking over at her hat. "Oh, it's just something I-"

"Rarity!" Huh? Who is it now? Huh? Did I just feel a drip of water? It's not even raining, and not showing a grey cloud anywhere around here? We all looked up to see a window washer pony above us cleaning one of the cafe's window. "Hey Rarity!" Suddenly, as he kept waving at her, his movements caused the rope to break and fall down while hanging onto one rope. 

"Hey Rares, do you know him?" Ren asked curiously.

"Y-yes...." Rarity nodded.

"Do I ever? Names Hayseed Turnip Truck!" Hayseed Turnip Truck?...Really? "Remember me, Rarity? We met at the big hoedown in Ponyville last month?"

"Wait, there was a hoedown?" Kodi asked curiously, unintentionally shocking the two fancy ponies. "When?...And how?"

"That I wonder too. Nobody told me there was a hoedown. I would've totally watched it!" Ren said with a grin.

"O-oh yes, of course...how are you?" Rarity asked with a nervous grin.

"Good! Real good!" Hayseed replied with a grin before the rope snapped and he fell down, landing on his back, causing us all to wince.

"I-is he going to be okay?" Jamie asked in worried. "Someone should probably call a doctor?"

"Hmm..." The two ponies turned to Rarity with a disgusted expression. "You're from...Ponyville?" Jet Set asked.

"Well yeah, yes but-"

"She sure is!" Hayseed said, getting back up with a smile while his recovery shocked Jamie completely. "She's a real big-time fancy pants dressmaker there! Probably made that real purty thing she's got on her head!"

"Not helping." I said with a stern look, which made Hayseed smile sheepishly at me.

"Hmph! I thought it looked a little country." Upper Crust commented.

"I told you it wasn't something you could get here in Canterlot, dear." Jet Set agreed.

"Hey, what's that supposed to mean?!" Ren exclaimed, causing the two ponies to glare at him with smug looks.

"We're just stating our opinions that Ponyville is the number#1 uncouth place of all Equestria." Upper Crust stated, causing him to growl angrily.

"Hey! That's not true! It's an awesome place to live at! I've been living here in almost a year and I've been enjoying myself!" Ren complained. "Not our fault that you guys never experience it before it!"

"And come to think of it, if it wasn't for Ponyville, Canterlot wouldn't have this much architect than it is today." Jamie muttered loudly in agreement, catching our attention. "According to one of the sections of the history of Equestria, Ponyville was a very cultural town and thanks to a great success over by that town, they shared the fortune with the princess to build Canterlot into what we see today."

"Well...he's got you there." Kodi said, smirking at the two ponies.

"H-huh? Did I say that aloud again?!"

"Loud and clear." I commented.

"Hmph! Who cares?" Jet Set scoffed. "We don't need a little lesson about history. What we know is that Ponyville is filled with uncouth ponies while Canterlot is filled with sophisticated ponies like us."

"B-but...does it really matter about that kind of system?" Jamie asked with a weak smile. "I mean, shouldn't everypony be equal?"

"Excuse us?!" Upper Crust glared at Jamie, causing him to flinch and cover his face with his notebook in fear. "I'll have you know that my husband and I are quite more wealthy than you are!"

"B-but-"

"Just leave it alone honey." Jet Set, scoffing at the frightened Jamie. "Here's just some weird hairless thing that doesn't know how to be sophisticated like us."

I growled angrily and clenched my fists at seeing them beat up Jamie like that. I could even feel how upset and sad Jamie is feeling right now.

"Really? Sophisticated? I hardly see that." I scoffed, much to the two ponies anger. "Look, everypony is equal, that's what I believe. I don't give a crap about some system between high, middle, or low class ponies! That system is nothing but bull! And you know something else?" I glared at the two of them in a dark glare, causing them to feel frightened and slowly backing away. "Bullying my friends is a cowardly way for you nobles. If anyone acts like a brat, it's you two and anyone else around here that don't care about anyone but themselves. So if I were you, I would walk away and never come back...ever."

"Y-yes!" The two ponies nodded before making a run for it. I soon sighed and began relaxing before turning around and noticing the shocked and disturbed looks on my friends' faces.

"What?"

"...I'm just gonna leave now. Bye." Hayseed waved goodbye before running off. Well, that was something.

"Wow...just wow. I have never seen you act like that before." Ren said in surprise. "Well, I did back at the Grand Galloping Gala, but that was so cool at everything you just said."

"I was just stating my opinion to them. Nobody talks to my friends like that and gets away with that." I stated, crossing my arms.

"Mason, thank you for defending us back there." Rarity thanked, grinning at me.

"Yeah! You saved our plots back there!" Kodi commented with a grin.

"It was nothing..." I blushed, hiding my face with my scarf before noticing the sad look on Jamie. "Jamie? Is there something wrong? I already taken care of the problem, so there's no need to be upset."

Jamie began letting out whimpers as tears began to descend from his eyes.

"Jamie?" Rarity asked in worried before Jamie got out of his seat and began running away, leaving his notebook behind. "Jamie! Come back darling!"

"Jamie! Come back!" Ren called, getting out his seat as he and Kodi began chasing after him before he turned back and said "We'll try and cheer him up! You two go and find those awesome gifts for Twilight birthday thing!"

"We will!" Rarity called as Ren and Kodi chased after Kodi, leaving us alone in the cafe.

"Jamie..." I sighed, feeling terrible because of what happened. It must because of those snobbish idiots we had to deal with. Thanks to them, they made the poor boy crushed. Hm? He must've left his notebook on the table when he ran off.

"Oh dear...I hope Jamie is alright. I feel awfully terrible for him." Rarity said, feeling concern for his friend. "I should go after him as well to check up on him."

"Rarity, please relax. Ren's got this." I assured with a serious tone. "After everything we've been through, Ren is known for encouraging us all with his hope and determination."

"Well...you do make a valid point." Rarity agreed hesitantly. "But Jamie...I always know that young man is quite nervous, too nervous than Fluttershy." Well, you're not technically wrong. "But the way that I say those tears...I feel so useless for not standing up to him."

"It's not your fault. I don't blame you." I said with a sad look. "It's those nobles snobs that broke his heart. I guess that's understandable what's he been through since he is wealthy as well."

"And I take it this is one of the reason why you don't like being sociable with high-class society back in your world?" Rarity asked curiously, which I nodded and replied "Yes, because almost every noble, wealthy, or royal figure I encountered always act like they're above all other people instead of thinking of them as their equals. Elena understands this as well, I just wished that there's somepony out in your world that would understand that besides the princesses."

"Don't fret darling, I'm sure they're might be a possibility that we might encounter one." Rarity offered with a soft grin. "But right now, we need to get ready to prepare Twilight's gift."

"Okay." I nodded as the waiter came back and handed us the bill, which was ridiculously expensive. I sighed and replied "I'll pay for it. Ren gave me some of his bits."

"No no, allow me." Rarity assured.

"You sure? I don't wanna a lady like you to waste time paying for an expensive bill." I smirked, causing her to giggle and replied "Oh relax, I have almost a thousand bits back home due to my business and the many contracts I've signed."

"Oh...that's really....refreshing to hear." I said, blinking in surprise. Well, it seems hardly surprising for me to hear since she once told me that she's Ponyville's Number#1 Fashionista. No wait, that's more like Pinkie Pie...Oh who cares, let's just go and find those fabrics to prepare Twilight's dress while I can look over at the store to find what Twilight looks. Probably go and buy her a hat...maybe that'll be something she might like.



Meanwhile
Jamie's POV
It's not fair...I was only offering my info to them and try to make them try to forget about the whole split rich and poor system, but nooo, those guys just wanna keep being arrogant and now look at me, I'm crying like a coward all because they called me names. I can't stand up to them, I can't fight back...I'm so...weak...

"Jamie! There you are!" Huh? Is that Ren? I looked up to see Ren and Kodi looking at me with curiosity and worried, but however, seeing them appear right in front of me scared and made me fall down. 

"You okay dude?" Ren asked in concern. "You really hit your head from that fall just now."

"Y-yeah, I'm okay." I said with a sad smile as Ren helped get me back up. "But what are you guys doing here? And how on earth did you find me?"

"Well one, after you just ran off and cried, we came after you to help cheer you up." Ren answered.

"And two, it was the most obvious place we knew you would come." Kodi finished, pointing towards a bookshelf behind me. Apparently, I ran away and went inside of this old library without consulting with the librarian of this place. I just kept running and running till I hid behind a bookshelf and just sat there and cried.

"Oh...I see." I sighed sadly.

"Hey James, is there something wrong? Was it those snobbish ponies that said all those mean things to ya?" Ren asked curiously, causing me to sadly glance away as I wasn't eager to tell him that.

"I-it's nothing...just sand in my eyes." I replied.

"Really? Then why did you ran away like that?" Kodi questioned.

"And if you did have sand in your eyes, you would've scratch your eyes instead of letting those tears out." Ren pointed out, causing me to sigh. Well...they got me there, it seems.

"Alright....can I ask you something Ren?" I asked curiously.

"Sure, what is it?" 

"...If you were a part of a rich family...how would you feel?" Ren thought for a while until he answered "Well, it would boring because it doesn't give you enough freedom. Why do you ask?" 

I sighed heavily and replied "Well you see....I'm tired everyday. Back on earth, there was always a social system people used back then that shows distrust between rich and poor people. Even here in this new world we're in, the system still lives. Do you know how frustrating for someone like me to live through many people being rude to you everyday?"

"Well kinda, I was bullied when I went to elementary school." Ren shrugged.

"What are you trying to say?" Kodi asked me.

"What I'm saying....I don't like being rich." I answered, much to their surprise. "It's just that...people from the lower class always have a rivalry with the high class, despite some wealthy people not being rude and arrogant....like my father. He always distant himself from me and all my sisters and only cares about his money and trying to make sure that his money doesn't go anywhere. That's why I hate being in the high class and being rich, I rather learn and see what life has gotten. I want....I want freedom." 

"Whoa Jamie, that's an amazing story." Ren said with a smile before frowning a bit. "Though, sorry if you never gotten that freedom and had to endure that social system."

"Thanks for understanding. Though...I also wished to be strong. I...I really want to be strong to help defend others at least." I added with a soft smile.

"Well I'm sure Mason, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack can help you with that." Kodi offered.

"He's right, those three are the strongest I know so far. Well besides Big Macintosh." Ren agreed.

"Who?" I asked curiously, not familiar with that name.

"He's Applejack's older brother." Ren clarified, which I nodded in understanding.

"Oh...well thank you for understanding, Ren. You're a real...f-friend." I softly smiled while Ren and Kodi nodded with smiles on their faces. They completely understand how I feel...that's nice. Besides my sisters, my father and others would rather ignore me like I don't exist. It feels nice being...appreciated.

"Excuse me you two?" Huh? We turned around to see something that caught my eye. Apparently, we bumped into a white pony with red mane, but the strangest part that her hairstyle, and everything about her looks exactly like Twilight! "I noticed you two strange fellas hanging around here and wondered if you two were interested in picking out some books?"

"O-oh, sorry ma'am. I just came in here to look for my friend, right Jamie?" Ren asked me, but I was too focus on this mare looking exactly like Twilight! "Jamie?"

"Hm? Something wrong sweetie?" She asked me with concern.

"S-sorry ma'am! I didn't mean to stare at you too long! I-it's just that you look exactly like a friend of mine." I said, holding my hands in surrender.

"Oh? Really? She wouldn't be Twilight Sparkle, right?" She asked, which I nodded with a raised brow.

"Oh? Are you familiar with her?"

"More than that, she's my daughter."

.....
....
....
"WHAAAAAAAAT?!" Me, Kodi, and Ren exclaimed in shock, hearing that. 

"Y-you're Twilight's m-m-mother?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"Why yes. Oh wait, are you guys friends with my daughter? You two are from Ponyville?" She asked excitedly.

"Oh yeah, we're really good friends." Ren answered, chuckling nervously while rubbing his head bashfully. "Though, I never expected to bump into her mother."

"Yeah, I mean no offense m-ma'am-"

"Oh please, call me Twilight Velvet." She offered with a nice smile. Twilight Velvet? Umm...I think that's going to be difficult if Twilight was here.

"Y-yes Ms. Velvet, but as I saying, you...umm...." How can I say this? 

"You look exactly like Twilight!" Kodi exclaimed, shocking Ms. Velvet.

"Oh my! A talking dog!" She gasped before she started cuddling him. "Ooh! He's so adorable! I just want to hug him so much! Who's a good boy? Who's a good boy?"

She started scratching underneath his chin, causing him to pant happily before falling on the ground as Ms. Velvet started scratching his belly, much to his joy.

"I am! I'm a good boy!" Kodi laughed.

"Wow, she looks like Twilight, but her personality is just...wow." Ren whispered to me, which I slowly nodded in agreement.

"So anyway..." Ms. Velvet cleared her throat before turning back to us. "If my Twilight here? I was hoping she would visit at least."

"Oh no, just us and a few of our friends." Ren answered. "We came here to Canterlot to find her a gift. This weekend is going to be her birthday and we find a perfect gift for her."

"Oh, I see! I forgotten that her birthday was coming up! That's so sweet for you two boys to do this for her. I bet you two are trying to win her heart, right?" She winked, causing us both to blush madly.

"N-no ma'am! We're d-d-doing this as friends! W-we're not dating!" I exclaimed.

"Yeah! Same here!" Ren added.

"Wow, I never seen you blush like that before Ren. Guess Fluttershy's lessons really paid off." Kodi laughed.

"K-Kodi!" Ren glared at him.

"Well if you two want to find perfect gifts, I suggest you two let her take some of her oldest stuff and give it to them. She hasn't seen them since she was a little filly." Ms. Velvet chuckled at our reactions before we returned confused expressions.

"What do you mean by that?" Ren asked curiously.

"She means that we can use Twilight's old stuff that she has forgotten in her childhood and used them as gifts." I clarified. "Think of it as...nostalgia?" 

"Hmm...yeah! Yeah!" Ren grinned at that idea. "Hey Twilight, do you think you maybe you can show us where do you keep her stuff?"

"Sure thing dearies! Follow me!" She gestured us to follow as she began leading us upstairs. "By the way, Night Light isn't here right now. He went off to do important business, that's all."

"N-Night light?" Ren snickered while I frowned a bit. Night Light? Why are all these equestrian names sound...ridiculous? 

"Yep." Ms. Velvet nodded, not catching on his snickering as she led us to a room upstairs and opening it, revealing a room filled with books and such. "This was Twilight's old room. I hope you boys find what you came looking for. I don't mind what you take as long as it makes my little filly happy!"

"T-thank you Ms. Velvet, but...you don't need to do this for us." I said with a weak smile.

"No no no, it's my pleasure. Any friend of my daughter is a friend of mine." Ms. Velvet smiled, which I nodded.

"Whoa..." We looked back to see Ren holding up some glass tubes that seems to be to used for science and lab experiments. "This looks great, I'll give this to Twilight. She'll totally love it since she does love science. Besides, it might give her a good memory of this."

"Tee-hee, my Twily always loved science." Ms. Velvet giggled.

"Hmm..." I looked around the place, seeing how many books she has. If Twilight read all these books, then she's quite amazing, almost like me. I read my family's library like ten times and it was quite worth it since I didn't have any friends to play with. Though, I didn't mind since I love writing and reading books. Thanks to them, I became a successful author of mystery novels. Hmm....hello, what's this? I noticed a really old book that's covered in dust as I picked it up and blew it, revealing an ancient book that says something about some pony named Starswirl The Bearded. Hmm...I wonder who could that be?

"Oh, that was my Twily's first book she ever read. Starswirl the Bearded's biography Vol. 1. She must've forgotten about it when she moved to Ponyville. I won't mind if you give it to her for her birthday." I looked at Ms. Velvet with a surprised look before looking back at the book. Hmm...

"A-Alright...thank you Ms. Velvet." I said with a soft smile.

"Anything for a friend of Twily." Twilight Velvet giggled as we began to head out of her room. 

"So anyway...did Twilight ever read every single book in your library?" I asked curiously.

"Why yes, she was always a fascinated little filly." Ms. Velvet giggled. "She always wanted to learn every single spell there was in Equestria and one day become a great mage like Princess Celestia. That's why me and Night Light discussed one day and allowed her to be accepted to Celestia's School of Gifted Unicorns." 

"Oh, so it was like a boarding school of some kind, right?" Ren asked curiously. "Twilight told us back then."

"Yep, and the entrance exam was tough, but I knew our little Twily could do it. What's better is that she became the personal protege of Princess Celestia herself! It was so cute and wonderful!" Ms. Velvet cheered happily before covering her mouth. "S-sorry...forgotten that we're in a library."

"I-it's quite alright M-Ms. Velvet, but I know Twilight is quite a successful mage." I said with a soft grin.

"Heck yeah she is." Kodi agreed. "She was always good with spells."

"That I agree." Ren nodded. "Well anyway, looks like we're gonna need some wrapping paper and such in order to fold these gifts up."

"Well...there's some wrapping paper and such in the closet. You two boys and your little dog friend can use them to wrap those gifts up for ya." Ms. Velvet offered.

"Wow, thanks Twilight Velvet." Ren grinned before realizing something about that name. "You know, with that name, I think it would be confusing if Twilight was around because we might mistake you guys for one of them."

"Yes, good point." Ms. Velvet agreed. "Just call me Velvet or Ms. Velvet like your human friend calls me."

"Okay!" Ren nodded before saying "Hey wait, you know what we are?"

"Well of course, Princess Celestia spoke about you guys a while back and everyone talked about four creatures hanging around the Grand Galloping Gala." Grand Galloping Gala? What's that? I guess some ball for the wealthy ponies here in Canterlot or even Equestria.

"Oh right, I forgot about that. Best night we ever had." Kodi grinned, which Ren nodded in agreement.

"You said it Kodiak, but anyway, where's that wrapping paper you talked about?" Ren asked curiously.

"Oh right, they're in the closet. Follow me. Besides, we might get to know each other and you can tell me all the stories about how my Twily has been doing in Ponyville. I bet she has made tons of friends, yes?" Ms. Velvet asked, brightening her smile.

"Y-yeah." I nodded with a weak smile. "Well I barely know what Ren and the others has been doing in Ponyville since my a-arrival, but I'm sure he can fill you in."

"Yeah, totally! We have a lot to talk about!" Ren grinned as she led us towards the closet. As we headed towards the closet, I couldn't help but feel like something was missing. Like something I was supposed to do....I guess I'll try to figure out later.



Mason's POV
"Come along Mason, we mustn't waste time!" 

"I know! I know!" I yelled back. After our little lunch at the Canterlot Cafe and with Ren and Jamie went off to who knows where after Jamie's little heartbroken moment from those two snobby idiots we encountered, me and Rarity finally gotten some fabric she needs to make Twilight's dress. I haven't decided what to give her yet, but I'm still working on it.

We walked through the streets of Canterlot as I noticed some ponies looking straight at us, not only because of my appearance that I'm not a pony, but also because Rarity was carrying a ton of bags with her magic while I carried a bunch in my arms, but I was strong enough to carry them.

"I have to get started right away." Rarity said. "This new design is very ambitious, and I've already written Twilight to let her know she'll have something beyond fabulous to wear at her party." 

"Wait, since when?" I asked with a raised brow.

"Since when we were buying fabric." But...never mind. Never question logic and they tell me that I shouldn't question Pinkie Pie's...weirdness. Suddenly, Rarity bumped into somepony as she fell down and dropping her bags in the process. I quickly down my bags and went to go help her as I asked "Are you okay Rarity?"

"Y-yes, I am fine. Thanks for your concern Mason." Rarity assured before glancing over to the ponies we bumped into as the pony took off the bag filled with feathers off his head, revealing to be somepony wearing a monocle and had light blue mane and wore a vest. "Oh....my...goodness! Fancy Pants!"

"Fancy...pants?" I asked in a deadpan expression. Seriously, first Jet Set, then Upper Crust, now Fancy Pants? Seriously, I feel like whoever gave them those names aren't even trying anymore. "Really?"

Rarity nudged me hard as Fancy Pants used his magic to look at the bag with a soft grin and said "I say, that's one way to make an introduction." 

Hmm...doesn't seemed to act arrogant, but who knows?

"Oh goodness, we are so sorry! I-I didn't see you there! I've just got so many bags and I was trying to get back to my suite at the castle and-"

"You're staying at the castle?" Fancy Pants asked incredulously.

"W-well...the Princess invited me to stay in one of the suites." Rarity softly grinned.

"You know the Princess?" 

"Hmm, a pony with expensive tastes, I see." The mare standing next to Fancy Pants said, letting out a light chuckle.

"No ma'am, a friend of ours allowed us to stay at the castle." I said with a bow, gaining the two's attention.

"Oh my, another human. What a marvelous sight indeed." Fancy Pants smiled. "You know, you're the second human me and my beloved wife, Fleur De Lis, have encountered."

"The second?" I asked with an incredulous brow. Hmm...wonder who he met? Ren, Carrie, or the other two?

"Yes, he was quite the delightful young lad. I think his name was Ren Loodan, which I have got to say is a lovely last name." Yep, should've known that Ren bumped into someone like him.

"I see, well it is an honor to meet you. I am Mason Hunter, an acquaintance of Rarity." I said with a soft smile. "Anyway, me and my friend were just heading back to the Princess's castle to go and prepare for a special gift."

"Mason is right." Rarity agreed as she quickly put away all the stuff she dropped on the floor, and accidentally stuffing Opal into one of the bags as well while I went over and picked up the bags I settled down when I went to go and help Rarity as we began to take our leave. "Anyway, we are terribly sorry for bumping into you."

As we took our leave, Fancy Pants stated "But I'm not."

"Excuse us?" I asked, turning back to them as they smiled at us. Hmm...I guess he is one of the nicest wealthy pony I encountered here in Canterlot thus far. 

"Heheh, you two are obviously somepony worth bumping into!" Fancy Pants said, causing Rarity to smile happily while I raised a brow at him as he continued "Listen, I have a VIP box reserved at the Wonderbolts Derby this afternoon. Would you...be so kind as to join me and a few of my companions there?" Fancy Pants asked politely, shocking Rarity while I raised a brow.

"Us?" Rarity asked incredulously.

"But of course, my dear." 

"Why us? I'm not sure it's not because we bumped into you and your lovely wife. What's the catch?" I asked suspiciously.

"Catch?" Fancy Pants repeated before he and his wife chuckled. "Why there is no catch. See, I'm very friendly towards the folks around the places I've been to. So would you two accept coming along to the Wonderbolts Derby with us?"

"W-well...I'm, uh...ah...no...I-I mean, sure!" Rarity nodded with a grin, much to my surprise.

"I'm sorry...what?" I asked, but was ignored by them.

"We'd love to see you there, uh...?" Fancy Pants asked Rarity with a soft smile.

"Rarity." Rarity answered.

"Rarity." With that, he took his leave while his wife began making poses while we had our discussion till she noticed he was gone and went after her. I turned to Rarity and saw how excited she was.

"Rarity..." I said, giving her a stern look.

"Now Mason darling, I know what you're thinking, but this is so amazing! If I go there and fit in with the high class ponies! I might become popular and be a civilized pony here!" Rarity said with an excited look before noticing my stern look. "Well alright...you're right. I should focus on the dress rather than a simple Wonderbolt Derby that could help raise my popularity of this place, making me fit in with the high class-"

"Rarity...you're not fooling me." I sighed, which Rarity giggled nervously. "Anyway, we should hurry so that I may find Twilight a present for her birthday."

"A-Agreed." Rarity nodded as we began to move back to the castle in order to prepare for Rarity's present.



Later
"Thank you so much for your help Mason." Rarity thanked as I settled the bags down on the guest's bed.

"Your welcome." I replied as she began to work on the sketches of the dress. "So anyway, I gotta go and find a gift. Don't wanna be empty-handed for when we come back to Ponyville."

"A-Ah yes, I wouldn't want to interrupt or disturb you, Mason darling." Rarity smiled. "So anyway, I'll be here...working on the dress all day." Rarity assured, causing me to raise a brow. What is she planning now? Oh...she is gonna do it? Is she?

"Right..." I said with a sigh before forming a smirk. "See ya I guess and good luck with the dress."

"Indeed! Bye bye!" Rarity waved as I took my leave, and once I closed the door, I let out a heavy sigh. She's seriously wants you to go to that Wonderbolt Derby. This is seriously a bad idea. I know she's going to go, and once she goes, she won't be able to make the dress. Ugh, now what? If she does go, then she won't have a enough time to make Twilight's dress....Hmm...actually....

"Mason?" Hm? I turned around to see Princess Celestia walking towards me with a soft smile. "Mason, you look quite upset. Is there a problem?"

"I-it's nothing much...really." I replied, glancing away. 

"You don't have to lie. Trust me, I can see when I'm being deceived. I can even tell when my sister is feeling upset." Princess Celestia smirked. Hmm, well played princess, well played.

"Alright...I fear Rarity might try to stay here in Canterlot forever and not go back to Ponyville." I explained with a sad look. "I understand she loves this place due to wanting to be civilized, but I'm afraid that she might turn into a snobbish ponies like some we encounter thus far and won't be able to finish the special present for your faithful student."

"I see...that is troubling." Princess Celestia thought aloud before putting a hoof on my shoulder and said "Though, I know and your friends might try to make her realize that Ponyville is her true home."

"You're right...I just don't know what to do anymore. If she won't listen to me, then I'm afraid she won't bother to come back." I sighed before crossing my arms in thought. I...I just worried her. She's going to be side-tracked by all this snobbish stuff. Ugh, if only the others were here to make her realize to stay true to herself then...wait...hmm...

"I know that look. It must mean that you got a plan, correct?" Princess Celestia asked with a smirk.

"Indeed." I nodded as I continued "So Princess, do you mind if you sent a letter to Twilight to let her and the others to come to Canterlot to spend her birthday here tomorrow. You know, since Rarity has some 'urgent business' with all the stuff she's doing."

"Ahh...I will get on it." Princess Celestia winked before taking her leave and said "Also, I hope you find the perfect gift for Twilight." With that, she began to take her leave while I couldn't help but smile. That Princess...she really knows what she's doing. Suddenly, the door behind me was opened, revealing Rarity as she was wearing the same pink hat she wore hours ago. 

"Oh! Mason darling! I-I didn't know you were still here." Rarity exclaimed in shock.

"Yeah..." I glanced at her hat and asked "What's up with the hat?"

"O-Oh this? I-I was going to the store to buy more fabric to make the dress more marvelous than ever that'll make Twilight love it oh-so much!" Oh Rarity, you're so predictable that it almost makes me wanna laugh.

I smirked and said "Really? Despite having almost 50 kinds of fabric you bought back from the store?"

"W-well..." Rarity glanced around nervously. "A lady such as me needs to be prepared for everything. So I must carry on. But don't worry, I shall be back later, and I promise." 

"...Okay." I replied, much to Rarity's surprise.

"Y-you really mean that?"

"Yep. Just go." I shrugged, much to Rarity's joy.

"I-I see! Thank you Mason darling." Rarity grinned before taking her leave. I sighed and shook my head, already knowing Rarity's true intentions on why she must leave. I was right, Rarity was predictable. Oh well, there's no stopping her and I guess I can allow her to do what she pleases. I just hope my plan will work by Twilight accepting to move her party to here so that Rarity won't 'miss' it.



Later
Great...now what to choose? I was looking over at the book store, hoping to find something to buy for Twilight's birthday. Well, I got nothing. I sighed heavily and began wondering how the others were doing? Carrie should be home by now as I did tell Kaede to go and pick her up for me and have a fun time at Twilight's birthday party. You know, this is actually the first time I'm being separated from my sister this far. I...I'm just worried. Truth be told, I never wanted to come here because of keeping watch over of my sister, but Ren and Rarity convinced me to come while Jamie pointed out that Twilight and friends could watch over her while we had business to attend here for picking out Twilight's gift.

Well...I just hope I picked the right decisions. I took out my locket and saw the picture of me, Carrie, and Elena back when we were kids. I hope you're alright Elena and are searching for me right now. I need to get back home...I...I just don't want her to feel lonely without me. 

"Let's see..." Hm? I turned to my left, finding another pony looking over at the bookshelf. This one...was quite different than the other ponies around here. She had a moderate rose mane with some pale gold streaks and her coat was pale with some cerise while her eyes were light purple. She also seemed to have some royal accessories like that small crown on her head and wearing golden hoof shoes along with having wings...and a horn. Just like Princess Celestia. Judging by her appearance and those accessories, I know one thing...she's royalty. 

"Hm? Is there something young lady?" I asked curiously, catching her attention before she became surprised on my appearance.

"Oh my!" She gasped.

"...If you're wondering what I am, I'm human. That's all you need to know." I said sternly.

"Oh, so you're one of those new species my aunt told me about." Aunt? Is she talking about...Princess Celestia? "I am so sorry for not noticing you. I was busy trying to find a gift for a friend of mine. Her birthday is tomorrow and I need to find one now."

"Really?" I asked incredulously. "May I ask if you're related to Princess Celestia by any chance?"

"Huh? Oh yeah, sorry for not introducing myself." She cleared her throat before saying "I'm Cadence, it's nice to meet you....Oh sorry, I never gotten your name."

"Mason Hunter, and the pleasure is mine." I bowed, much to her surprise and confusion.

"Oh, so you know that I'm a royal?" She asked curiously.

"Why yes, it's not so obvious due to that little crown on your head." I pointed out, much to her embarrassment.

"O-oh...right." Cadence chuckled nervously before clearing her throat and forming a smile on her face. "So anyway, to answer your question, yes. I am the niece of the ruler of Equestria...well, more like she's my adoptive aunt."

"Ah...so you were taken in, huh?" Cadence nodded at my question as she replied "Yes...it's a long story that I wish not to talk about."

"It's alright, I won't press you further." I said with an sympathetic smile. I get how she feels. "So anyway...you said that you were looking for a gift for somepony tomorrow, right? It wouldn't be Twilight Sparkle, correct?"

She gasped upon me knowing that name as she asked "How do you know?"

"Let's just say that we're friends. I'm trying to look for a gift for her as well...but I don't know what to get her." I said with a serious look before gazing at all the books. I never had this much trouble back when me and Elena went to get us each other gifts back from our last Christmas celebration.

"Same here." Cadence giggled before something caught her eye. "Oh my!"

Hm? I turned around and saw what was she looking at. It was a bookmark, but had a strange cutie-mark on it. It was like stars swirling around the area. "A bookmark?"

"That's just not any ordinary bookmark, it's a limited edition Starswirl The Bearded bookmark!" Cadence squealed in delight while I raised a brow of confusion at her. Starswirl The Bearded? I think I heard that name somewhere before.... "Twilight never had one of those before."

"Really? How are you acquainted with her if I may ask?" I asked politely.

"Well I was her foalsitter back then, and the two of us were so close! Even when she grew up, we still kept tabs on each other. Though, I heard from Auntie Celestia that she moved away to Ponyville, along with a new species of creatures called 'Humans'. I think it takes no brainer to know that you're a part of the new species, right?" Cadence asked with a smirk.

I smiled back and replied "Yeah, and she and I are good friends. Though, if you want the bookmark, I won't mind."

"R-really? That's so kind of you Mason." Cadence smiled as I took the bookmark from the shelves and handed it to her. She accepted the bookmark as she went over and bought it. You know, I'm surprise that Celestia has taken in someone as their niece. Though, I am curious to know much about her. Soon, she came back and had the bookmark packed in a shopping bag.

"Yep! I got something that Twilight is so gonna love!" Cadence squealed, which made me smile and said "Well I'm sure she'll be proud of her gift. Though, how are you gonna send it to her?"

"I'll tell Auntie Celestia to send it to her tomorrow for her birthday. She'll be amazed by it." Cadence answered before frowning a bit. "Though, I wish to give it to her by pony, but she's all the way out in Ponyville."

"Don't count on it." I assured with a soft smirk. "Me and some of my friends are staying over at the Princess's castle for the weekend, and she tells me that she'll allow Twilight to come to Canterlot for her birthday party."

Princess Cadence became shocked to hear that news before smiling brightly and exclaimed "Wow! That's amazing to hear! I can't wait to go and see Twilight again! We haven't seen each other due to my royal business, so I guess this is it! Thanks for letting me know Mason!"

"The pleasure is mine." I assured with a bow.

"And you don't have to bow, we're just friends." Cadence giggled. "Anyway, I have to go. It was nice meeting you Mr. Hunter."

"Please, call me Mason. We are friends after all." I pointed out, which Cadence smiled.

"Thanks, and are you trying to flirt with me?" I stuttered at that idea as I replied "N-no! I was just being friendly! That's all!"

"Oh thank goodness. Because if you were, I think my fiance would not appreciate that idea." Cadence said in relief.

"Fiance? Oh...so you're getting married?" I asked curiously.

"Yep! The wedding shouldn't start till a couple of months." Cadence explained.

"I see..." I muttered, thinking about it. So this young princess is going to get married by her fiance? Hmm, curious to know much about this fiance of hers. Suddenly, the doors barged open, revealing a fellow maiden wearing a maid's outfit.

"Your majesty, I was looking for you everywhere!" The maid exclaimed, trying to catch her attention. "It's your schedule! Apparently, tomorrow!...You have an appointment at Fillydelphia tomorrow morning!"

"W-what?" Cadence gasped, shocked to hear that. "Oh no...but I was supposed to go somewhere else tomorrow."

"But it's very urgent!" The maid retorted, much to Cadence's concern.

"Oh no...now how am I gonna give Twilight her gift?" Cadence wondered.

"Hmph. Well...why not give it to me? I'll hand her that gift to her if ya want?" I offered, much to the maid and Cadence's surprise.

"Y-you...you really think so Mason?" 

I nodded and replied "Of course. It is the duty of every gentleman to help a young lady in distress."

Cadence let out a giggle and said "Why so gentle-pony of you to do that for me. Thank you so much."

She levitated the bag towards me as I graciously accepted it. 

"Why thank you." I bowed as the maid turned to Cadence with a pleading look and said "Come along Cadence, we have some urgent business to attend. There's an afternoon garden party you were supposed to meet up two minutes ago."

"Oh right! Nearly forgotten about that." Cadence face-hooved herself before departing with the maid as she waved goodbye to me, which I waved back. Wow, never expected to bump into another princess today. Huh...guess this day was worth it, I assume. Well anyway, it's getting late and I should probably head back to the castle. Wonder if Ren, Kodi, and Jamie are back yet. After all...I still have Jamie's journal. I never took a look inside since it's rude to look at other people's stuff. Though, I am curious to know what he has written in this thing.

Soon, as I began leaving the shop, I decided to take out his journal and thought that maybe I should at least take a little peek at it. As I opened it, I saw a bunch of notes describing things that we've been through. Hmm, it's like he was chronicling our adventures. Well, he described every detail perfectly, saying about another new floor which belonged to him and it seems like he was trying to figure out the ship's detail. Can't say I blame him due to wanting to find answers onto how we ended up in that thing. As I skimmed through the pages, detailing about the stuff about he learned thus far in Equestria, I noticed a peculiar page that was rather different than the other pages. Hmm...let's see what it says.

Dear Journal...I sometimes wonder why do I exist? Well besides writing and reading books, I...I feel so weak compared to other people. What do I have to protect? I never made friends for my entire life and I was always treated like a second rate. I...I just wanna be a part of society and want to be treated like a regular person instead of being wealthy so that others won't treat me like I'm better than them. If I don't...then I have one option...suicide. If these new strangers I have made in this new world are rather tricking me and using against me...then I have no choice but to comply suicide...I have no reason to live. I'm...weak....and I'll always be.

....Jamie....he was planning on committing suicide back then? Oh my goodness...I know he's a coward, but to think he would plan to kill himself...it's just wrong! Is he just gonna let things go when he has an entire life?! Alright, tomorrow! I'm gonna be having a conversation with him about this!



Later
Well, it's already night time, so I guess the others are already back so soon. As soon as I entered the door, I found the others were back here as well. 

"Hey Mason!" Ren greeted me. "I take it your search went well?"

"You may say that." I shrugged.

"H-hi Mason..." Jamie waved at me while I looked at him sadly and replied "H-hey....So how you feeling?"

"F-feeling a lot better, thank you for asking." Jamie smiled. "And sorry for running off like that."

"It's quite alright, I understand you were upset because of those snobbish noble ponies. They just won't understand your personality." I assured with a soft grin. "So what did you guys get her?"

"Oh you won't believe this, but we just bumped into Twilight's mother and boy, let me tell you that she looked exactly like Twilight!" Ren exclaimed, causing me to raise a brow.

"You're kidding, right?" I asked incredulously.

"N-no...he's telling the truth. Once you meet her, you would be g-generally surprised." Jamie said. "But anywho, she was very n-nice and gave us some stuff from Twilight's room so that we can make her feel happy to see some old stuff of hers."

"Ah, so you took one of the many items from Twilight's room and made it out of a gift?" I asked curiously.

"Yep! Ren took some lab science equipment stuff while Jamie got her a Starswirl The Bearded Biography Vol. 1." Kodi explained, causing me to grin.

"Huh, impressive gifts. I even got something for her." I said, showing them what was inside of the bag I was carrying. Jamie, Kodi, and Ren looked inside and became confused by what it was.

"What is it?" Ren asked curiously.

"It's a Starswirl The Bearded Bookmark." I answered, much to their surprise.

"Huh...what a coincidence." Kodi said, blinking in surprise.

"Y-yeah...it's quite surprising." Jamie admitted. "T-that's a really nice gift. Probably more than mine."

"Please don't say that." I said sternly before smiling softly at him. "Your gift for Twilight is quite good. Just don't overreact."

"Huh? O-oh...right. Thank you M-Mason." Jamie replied, smiling meekly at him. 

"By the way..." Ren glanced towards the pony mannequin that Rarity made, only to have a single design on it. "Where's Rarity? We haven't seen her when we came back."

I sighed and replied "Let's just say that she's...just went to brainstorm."

I then walked pass them and settled down on the bed, looking over at the ceiling before putting the bag down on the table.

"Oh...okay." Ren shrugged until we heard the door opening, revealng Rarity sneaking in and closing it slowly, letting out a sigh of relief.

"Rarity?" Kodi called, frightening her.

"AAH! Oh, it's just you boys. Didn't quite see you all there." Rarity chuckled nervously.

"Where were you?" Jamie asked with a concerned look. "We were wondering why you haven't made Twilight's dress."

"O-oh yes, it's just that I...went to buy more fabric!" Now, that's a lie. I can't believe it...

"Alright...but it looks like you have enough fabric." Ren stated, looking over at the table, seeing too many bags. "It almost filled the table with it."

"Well a mare such as myself needs to be prepare." Rarity answered before letting out a yawn. "But I need some beauty sleep. I promise that I shall prepare it tomorrow."

"Don't get your hopes up." I muttered, which Rarity overheard.

"And what was that if I might ask, Mason darling?" Rarity asked with a raised brow. 

"Oh nothing...just something aloud. That's all." I replied bluntly.

"Right...anywho, I shall prepare for my beauty sleep." With that, Rarity headed over to the bathroom to prepare herself for her 'beauty sleep'.

"What was that all about?" Ren wondered.

"It's a long story, but I'll tell you tomorrow morning. Oh yeah, Jamie..." I got up from my bed and took out his journal out of his bag and handed it to him. "You left it back at the cafe and I was keeping it ever since."

"Oh...thank you." Jamie said, smiling softly at me before accepting his journal back. "I knew I forgotten something."

"Well at least you got it back. That's a relief, I guess." Kodi chuckled, which Jamie nodded in agreement.

"Y-yeah...you're right about that....hey wait, Mason, y-you haven't been reading what was inside of it, r-right?" Jamie asked curiously.

"....Yes." I replied, much to his surprise. "I only skimmed through them."

"Y-you have?!" Jamie asked in shock. 

"What about it? It's just a bunch of notes you wrote about Equestria and your surroundings, right?" Ren asked curiously.

"W-well..." Jamie glanced away nervously, feeling quite upset and embarrassed about it. 

"It's alright. I won't say much. We can talk tomorrow." I said with a stern and serious expression before laying on the bed. "I'll see you all in the morning. Goodnight."

"Umm...goodnight, I guess." Kodi said before walking over to Ren's bed, before noticing Opal was on it, causing him to growl angrily at her.

"Kodi...leave Opal alone. We can use another bed to sleep on. They're like four beds in here, so it's not a big deal." Ren assured, taking the top right bed that was next to the door. Kodi sighed before glaring at the sleeping Opal and saying "You won this time, Opal."

Wow...Kodi and Opal really do have so much of a rivalry. Which makes sense since most cats and dogs aren't friendly with each other.

"M-Mason..." I glanced over to see a nervous Jamie as he looked at me with a nervous look and asked "Did you read...anything else on it?"

"...Yeah, but I promise that I won't tell anyone about it, got it?" I replied with a stern look, which he nodded.

"O-Okay! Thank you..." Jamie sighed before walking over to his bed as I began to drift myself to sleep. I never even knew Jamie has even thought about committing suicide due to his bullying of being a high class person. I sorta understand that feeling. Having a system between high class, middle class, and low class people/ponies...it's just pisses me off. Once Twilight's birthday is over, I'll have a talk with him.



The Next Day
....Ugh....Huh? Well, looks like Princess Celestia finally raised the sun. 

"What do you think? Too much? You're right." Huh? Rarity? Now what is that mare up to? I got up and saw her in a yellow dress and a big yellow hat. "Garden party! Here I come!"

"And just where do you think you're going?" Rarity froze upon slowly turning around and seeing me.

"O-oh...good morning Mason...wasn't expecting you to see you up this early." Rarity chuckled nervously while I gave her a stern look, not falling for any of her trucks. She took noticed that I wasn't gonna hear anymore excuses as she sighed "Well...looks like I'm busted."

"You think?" I asked with narrowed eyes. Soon, Ren, Kodi, and Jamie soon started to wake up and noticed what was happening.

"Hey guys...what's up?" Ren asked, stretching his arms.

"And what's up with the big weird yellow dress, Rarity?" Kodi asked curiously. 

"Uhhh..." Rarity glanced away, sweating nervously upon being found out.

"Yeah Rarity, where are you going?" I asked, getting up from the bed and glaring at her. She let out a heavy sigh and said "I'm...going to a garden party."

"G-garden party?!" Jamie gasped. "But what about T-Twilight's birthday gift?! Didn't you say that you were preparing her gift?!"

"I have. I worked on it last night while you boys were asleep! See!" She pointed over to the dress, which revealed to be just a plain dress. Not the one she imagined or wrote on her sketches. 

"But that's barely complete!" Ren pointed out. "Rarity, why are you doing this? Don't you care about Twilight's birthday?"

"I-I do! It's just that...yesterday, I was approached by one of Canterlot's famous wealthy ponies and he invited me over to a Wonderbolt Derby." Rarity explained. "It was just a simple request, but I soon started to get popular by the minute and I was having such a good time here in Canterlot. Just when I was about to head home from the last party, I was requested to come to a garden party around here in Canterlot Castle and it was none from Jet Set and Upper Crust!"

"Wait...those two?!" Kodi exclaimed.

"You mean to tell me...you're going to the party from the same ponies that mocked us?!" I growled angrily while Jamie glanced away sadly, remembering what they said about him yesterday. "Do you even know what they done?! They mocked Jamie!"

"Now I know this looks bad...but maybe they'll change their ways and apologize all those rude stuff to him. I know it." Rarity assured with a soft grin, causing me to roll my eyes as I replied "Yeah...like that'll ever happen."

"But Rarity...what if Twilight finds out we won't be coming back to her birthday?" Ren asked worriedly.

"I know...so I told her that I cannot come...." Rarity sighed.

"So you told her the truth?" Kodi asked.

"W-well...."

"What did you do?" I asked suspiciously.

"I...may have told a fib to her and the others that Opal was...sick." Rarity grinned nervously as I face-palmed hard and said "You have got to be kidding me..."

"I-I am so sorry, I just-"

"No...it's your fault." I said, glaring at her. "You should've ignored all these noble ponies, but no, you chose to go to their damn parties!"

"Please Mason, you have to understand that-"

"Oh, I do understand! I understand that you care more for the parties instead of your own friends!" I exclaimed, making Rarity feel guilty. I soon sighed and said "You know what? Fine...go then. I won't stop you."

"Wait, are you serious?" Ren asked incredulously.

"Alright..." Rarity sighed as she began to take her leave and as soon as she opened the doors, we were met with familiar faces.

"SURPRISE!" They all shouted. Turns out, it was our friends. Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Carrie, and Kaede. The moment Rarity saw them, she passed out.

"Uhh...Rarity?" Kaede asked in worried.

"Umm...is she going to be okay?" Jamie asked in concern.

"She'll be fine, just unconscious." I sighed as I was immediately hugged by my sister as she said "It's nice to see you again big brother!"

"You too Carrie." I smiled before hugging her back.

"Ren, I missed you so much!" Fluttershy said, hugging Ren before he hugged her back. 

"I wasn't gone that long. It's been just a day." Ren smiled.

"I know, but a day feels so long." Fluttershy replied, blushing a bit.

"H-hi everyone..." Jamie waved. "And happy birthday T-Twilight."

"Ahh thanks Jamie. I appreciate that." Twilight smiled, causing Jamie to blush a little. Hmm, you know it's not that obvious when he keeps blushing like that.

"So how was everything?" Kaede asked, nudging Ren a bit.

"It was going okay. We had tons of fun." Ren grinned, rubbing his head bashfully. 

"Though..." I glanced at the unconscious Rarity before sighing "It seems that your surprised scared you."

"Yeah, guess she was excited to see us." Applejack smiled. 

"Yeah! She must've missed us. But if it wasn't for the Princess offering to let us celebrate Twilight's birthday here, then we would have totally missed it." Rainbow said with a grin while crossing her hooves.

"Yeah, it was a shame that Rarity couldn't make it to my party due to having some errands." Twilight said sadly.

"Not only that, from the last note we received last night stated that Opal wasn't feeling good." Kaede added.

"Ooh, the poor cat. Maybe I should go and check up on her." Fluttershy said, concern for Opal.

"Well good luck with that, we'll be here waiting for Rarity to wake up." I said seriously, which she nodded.

"Well, we got my big brother to thank. If he hadn't asked the princess to come and let us celebrate Twilight's birthday here in Canterlot, then they would totally missed the cake!" Carrie said, causing Kodi to drool happily.

"Cake..." Kodi muttered. 

"Yeah, but the way how you guys surprised her made her almost have a heart attack." Ren stated.

"W-well, it more like she would have cardiac arrest." Jamie muttered loudly.

"I know right?! The moment we shouted 'SURPRISE'!" Pinkie exclaimed, bouncing around the room. "When we opened the doors! Swoosh! And right before she hit the ground, shoom, she...oh hi again!" Huh? Pinkie started waving over to someone behind me as I turned around and saw Rarity slowly waking up. She soon noticed us all and became shocked by their arrival.

"What are you...how did you...why are you...?" Rarity stuttered.

"Listen to her. She's so excited to see us, she can hardly talk." Applejack grinned. 

"I wouldn't say that..." I muttered.

"What I mean to say is...what are you all doing here?" Rarity asked nervously.

"When I got your letter saying you guys were stuck in Canterlot, I asked Pinkie Pie if it wouldn't be too much trouble to move my birthday party here, so you wouldn't have to miss it!" Twilight explained. 

"Balloons are super easy to pack!" Pinkie grinned, pulling out a suitcase out of her mane and opened it, revealing tons of balloons bursting out of there.

"W-w-w-whaaaat?!" Jamie exclaimed in shock. "How is that possible!? How in the world did you stuff fully blown up balloons into a small suitcase?!"

"Jamie...let's not go over this again." Ren said, putting a hand on his shoulder.

"He's right...just accept it." Kaede added, smiling while sweat-dropping at the same time.

"Yeah! And you gotta thank my big brother for allowing the princess to let us party here with ya." Carrie added, causing Rarity to glare at me angrily.

"Oh...did he now?" Rarity asked. 

"Yeah...I did." I answered, glaring back at her, which the others noticed.

"Is...there a problem?" Fluttershy asked.

"No." We answered in unison. Rarity cleared her throat and looked at her friends with a happy look and said "Wow...first you get me a suite at Canterlot Castle and now this. I-I don't know what to say, Twilight."

"How about you start by saying what you're doing in that fancy getup?" Rainbow Dash asked suspiciously. 

"This? O-oh...well..." Rarity asked while the others gave out confused expressions while me, Jamie, Ren, and Kodi sighed since we all knew the answer. "I-I always put on something a little fancy when Opal's feeling under the weather..."

"Since when?" Kaede asked. "I've been helping you while you taught me some lessons about clothes designing and I never seen you like that before."

"W-well...it cheers her right up." Rarity giggled nervously, causing Kaede to raise a brow at her. 

"Oh, poor Opal." Fluttershy said, feeling bad for the white cat. "Where is the sick darling?"

"Darling? I hardly call her a darling." Kodi rolled his eyes.

"O-oh...she's...uhh...just hold on a minute." Rarity pleaded before shutting the doors closed. 

"Huh?" The girls asked in unison.

"Oh boy..." I sighed.

"Hey guys...do you know what's up with Rarity?" Kaede asked.

"No." I replied with a bored look on my face. Soon, Rarity re-opened the doors with a nervous look and said "She's resting in the bed."

Fluttershy immediately took off and passed Rarity as we all entered and saw her cuddling with Opal, who looked like she was drenched by water.

"Oh, poor Opal. She looks awful." Fluttershy said, hugging the cat gently.

Everyone else looked around our guest room, amazed by the size of it and its designs. 

"Heh heh...just how we remembered." Kaede chuckled.

"Yeah!" Carrie agreed. I sighed and leaned against the wall before seeing Opal giving a hard glare and growled angrily at Rarity, who flinched at her. Well, looks like Opal won't let this one slide.

"Is...Is that my dress?" Twilight looked over at the plain dress Rarity made yesterday, which made the fashionista sweating nervously.

"Yes?" Rarity gulped.

"It's so simple..." Twilight stated, causing Rarity to flinch. "So practical...so...me!"

"Wait, you like it?" Jamie asked in worried. "But...isn't it just plain?"

"Exactly! It defines me!" Twilight replied before hugging Rarity tightly. "Thank you Rarity! It's the perfect dress for my birthday party! I love it!"

Rarity sighed in relief as she said "You don't know how glad I am to hear you say that." Rarity then used her tail to wipe away the sketch that she made for the supposed dress as it flew down in the trash bin. Soon, I glared at her, seeing how lucky she got. These girls are gonna find out eventually, and they'll demand the truth from ya.



Later
Soon, after heading out of the room to go and celebrate Twilight's birthday, Twilight wore her dress that Rarity made as we headed down through a hallway, which seemed quite familiar to me. Like I've been here before.

"When the princess asked us to move the party here in Canterlot, thanks to Mason..." Twilight turned to me with a smile, which I smiled back before she continued on and said "She was kind enough to offer us the Canterlot castle ballroom."

"Ladies, allow me." I offered before opening the room, revealing the party room, which looks exactly like the one back at the Grand Galloping Gala. Wait...

"Hey, isn't this the Grand Galloping Gala?" Ren asked curiously.

"I heard you guys mention that once, what's that?" Jamie asked.

"It's a ballroom where everypony calls it the best party ever." Kaede stated. "Which was indeed one heck of a party."

"Yeah, but we all had a great time." Carrie added as she and the others walked inside.

"I gotta say, this place looks better than ever." Kodi said in amazement.

"Isn't it fancy pants?" Pinkie asked.

"Fancy Pants?! Where?!" Rarity immediately shielded herself by using Rainbow Dash's wings, until she realized that it was just an expression as we all gave her weird looks. "I-I mean...where ever did you find the time to set up this smashing decor?"

"Oh, I never leave home without my party cannon!" Pinkie stated, taking out a little blue cannon out of nowhere and fired it, causing confetti to blast out of it and rained down everywhere, including Rarity's outfit, much to her disappointment.

"I thought about having my party outside..." Twilight said. "But I was informed that another party's taking place on the castle grounds today."

"Really?" I asked before looking over a nearby window and saw all the rich ponies celebrating, including Fancy Pants, his wife, and Jet Set and Upper Crust, those two despicable idiots. Ugh, why would I bother to go there? 

"Let's...PARTY!" Pinkie shouted.

"On it! Move!" Ren took out his Hacking Gun and shot a green beam towards a nearby record player, and once it made full contact with it, the record player began playing some groovy music as the others began dancing around. I soon watched over the party and saw everypony having a good time. Back then, I attended in high class ballrooms with Elena, and she stated that she was always bored with them and nobody complains about it. So one day, we snucked out of the ballroom and decided to have a party of our way. Carrie set up the music and the lights for me and her as we slow dance while she gave us some delicious cake, which we thanked. This party...I know I've been to one back then before we attended the Grand Galloping Gala, but it felt...like I had enjoy parties like this one, like the one me and Elena had back then.

Everyone was having a good time like pinata smashing, eating some cake, and also a cake fight which was started out by Rainbow Dash and other cool party activities.

"Hm?" I noticed Jamie watching the party with a curious and yet sad look, causing me to walk over to him as I asked "Hey Jamie, what's up?"

"H-hey..." Jamie greeted back with a sigh. "You know...this is the first time I-I ever been to a party that doesn't involve somebody yelling at you for being careless...."

"I know exactly how that feels..." I stated. "Back then, me and my mistress always come to high class parties, which bores her due to being the same thing everyday and nobody seems to care."

"Really?" Jamie asked in surprise.

"Yeah, but after attending one party made by Pinkie, I sorta enjoyed it...it made me feel like I was a normal child." I chuckled, which made Jamie surprised.

"Amazing...that's so great to hear. Sometimes...I wished to live a normal life..." Jamie sighed, causing me to look at him sympathetically as I said "Sometimes life doesn't go what you planned, you simply just let your heart tell you where to go."

Jamie sighed, glancing away sadly as I put a hand on his shoulder and said "Listen...about your journal, I took a look at it and saw the one describing how you felt back then. I understand that you hated it, but you don't have to kill yourself to solve your problems."

"Oh...so you have read it? What a surprise." Jamie sighed.

"Listen...and just listen." I said sternly. "If you really want to stand up for yourself, you need to be strong. If ya want, I'll help you grow strong not physically, but emotionally too."

Jamie looked at me in surprise as he asked "A-Are...you serious?"

I made a soft grin and said "Yeah, and I don't want you to lose a life, but I want you to trust us. We'll never betray you. We'll...always be your friends and never leave you."

"...Thank you." Jamie smiled at me, which I nodded before patting his back hard, which caused him to gag as I said "Now go on and have fun."

"A-Alright..." Jamie nodded as he went over and had some cake which both Pinkie and Kaede offered. Hmm, I think I can help overcome this complex of his. He's been living a life filled with distrust, cruelty, and loneliness. He has so much doubts that could make him come up with many suicidal thoughts. I have to help him or else...he'll...

"Cake?" Huh? I looked down to see Carrie handed some cake over to me, which I nodded and accepted. 

"Oh...thanks." I replied, taking a bite of the cake.

"Anytime big brother!" Carrie nodded before noticing somepony missing. "So...where' Rarity?"

"Huh?" I asked, looking around to see her gone. Where in the world did she...oh no, don't tell me that she...

"Uh, what's with the croquet mallet?" We turned to see Rarity, looking quite worn out and having a croque mallet with her?

"What croquet mallet?" Rarity asked, oblivious to understand what Rainbow meant.

"Duh, the one in your mouth." Rainbow pointed, which made her realize it as she widened her mouth and spat it out while I gave her a deadpan expression and the others gave her weird looks.

"O-oh...that croquet mallet! I...well I...the truth is..." Rarity was unable to tell them the truth, but Twilight spoke up and said "Were you at that other party in the garden?"

"I..." Well, it seems like Rarity is trapped in a corner.

"Rarity, I'm surprised at you." Twilight said, almost sounding disappointed.

"Twilight please! I can explain!" Rarity kneeled down and started pleading her.

"I had no idea you were such a savvy businesspony!" 

"Say what?" Kodi asked, which Ren shrugged, unsure what Twilight meant by that.

"All of those look so posh." Twilight commented, with the rest of us gazing out at the window to see all those wealthy ponies out there. "And with the Grand Galloping Gala coming up, I bet you could totally get some of them to buy your dresses, very smart!"

"You're kidding, right?" Jamie asked in a blank expression.

"W-why yes...I-I didn't want you to think I was being rude, so that's exactly the reason I didn't tell you." Rarity said, feeling relieved while I face-palmed myself. Rarity, you're digging yourself too deep in your grave.

"You should totally go over there and mingle!" Twilight suggested.

"Hey wait!" Rainbow stopped as she suggested "We're your friends! I'm sure they won't mind if we check out the party too! Come on everypony, let's show them to party Ponyville style!"

The mares nodded as they followed after Twilight and began to go to the party, leaving me, Carrie, Kaede, Kodi, Ren, Rarity and Jamie alone.

"Well...that was sorta unexpected." Ren commented, causing me to glare at him. "What?....What?!"

"Oh Mason! What am I going to do?!" Rarity asked in worried. I looked at her for a while, seeing how troubled she was. I soon started to feel guilty, and I realize that I should've helped her earlier. 

"Let's go over to the next party and tried to stop the situation." I suggested.

"R-really?" Rarity asked, looking at me in shock.

"Yes, and I'm sorry for being rude to you earlier." I said with a soft smile, which made Rarity smiled back at me.

"Umm...what's going on?" Kaede asked, not following what's going on.

"It's a long story, but right now, let's go check out the other party." Ren offered, which we all nodded without hesitation as we headed over to the other garden party, where we saw it was almost total chaos.

Apparently, the mares are just making things worse around the party like Rainbow Dash playing croquet, but swung it so hard that it accidentally launched of the course and knocked off a mare's wig, making her reveal her baldness and caused the pony she was talking to to walk away from her. Fluttershy was playing with some bird, causing leaves to fall onto some of the attendees, a stallion was repulsed by Pinkie Pie throwing her face into of the cakes at the appetizers while Applejack kicked some dirt and pulled out a weed.

"How could you all ain't gardening? This is a garden party, ain't it?" Applejack questioned.

"That's not what a garden party is meant." Jamie pointed out before muttering "But for her country talk, I guess that makes sense for her."

"Oh dear..." Rarity muttered.

"Punch?" I offered, grabbing one from the table and handing one to her.

"Thank you Mason darling." Rarity thanked before accepting the drink and started sipping on it.

"Can you believe what that pony is wearing?" We turned to see the two miserable wretches from before glaring at Twilight as she was dancing around awkwardly that made Ren, Kodi, and Carrie hold in their laughter.

"It's just so plain." Upper Crust scoffed.

"But I think her dress is alright." Carrie shrugged.

"They're not the types to understand, sis." I said, glaring at the two ponies.

"Y-yeah." Rarity agreed.

Soon, I caught on one of the ponies, who I identified as Fancy Pants, came over walked towards Twilight and asked "Excuse me, might I ask where you got your ensemble?"

"Why yes, yes you may." Twilight nodded with a smile. "A very, very close friend of mine from Ponyville made it for me."

Rarity spit out the contents of the drink onto Jet Set and his wife, much to my amusement, as she immediately rushed over to Twilight as Fancy Pants asked "Ponyville? You don't say."

"She does say." I spoke up, walking towards them while catching Fancy Pants by surprise.

"Ah, Mason Hunter, it is an honor to meet you again." Fancy Pants smiled before noticing Ren as well. "And Ren Loodan, long time no see my dear old chump."

"Hey Fancy Pants, what up?" Ren waved, much to Rarity's shock as she intervened and said "Fancy Pants, so good to see you again! Come with me! I'd like to show you this, er, thing that's over there. On the other side of the room!"

"In a moment, my dear." Fancy Pants replied, unintentionally drawing a crowd. "I was just about to hear from where this lovely filly from Ponyville who made her charming dress."

"What, that dress?" Rarity asked nervously. "Oh come now. Who cares? It's just a plain old-"

"Oh don't be so modest, Rarity." I spoke up, looking at her with a soft smile. "This dress you made for Twilight's birthday is beautiful."

Soon, everypony gasped in shock, some dropping their drinks as they all gaze at Rarity.

"We all think so." Twilight agreed, along with the others.

"You know these ponies and humans?" Fancy Pants asked Rarity curiously.

"W-well..." Rarity looked around nervously, seeing our friends confused  while the other social ponies glared at Rarity.

"Rarity..." I spoke up, turning to her with a soft smile. "It's okay...you need to relax and tell them the truth. I don't care if they don't like you, we're still here for you."

Rarity looked at me with a soft smile before turning to Fancy Pants and replied "Yes...yes I do know them."

Rarity...it seems like you're tired of lying and making too many excuses. You should be you and not become like those two wretched couples, Jet Set and Upper Crust, which by the way, are the most ridiculous names I've ever heard for a bunch of high class ponies.

"They may not be as sophisticated as all of you Canterlot ponies, but they are my best friends! And they are, without a doubt, the most important ponies I know." Rarity stated as she smiled at us, but I smiled proudly at her, happy to hear that Rarity finally gave up on this charade and accepted who she is.

"Important ponies?!" We turned around and saw the two stuck up snobs from before as Jet Set scoffed "These ruffians?"

"Don't make me laugh." Upper Crust sneered before she and her husband started laughing as I darkly glared at them. 

"At least she has a heart unlike you two." I scoffed, causing the couple to stop laughing.

"E-exactly!" Jamie agreed. "They care about each other, and while you guys care about yourselves, but at least one of them has a heart."

Well, at least it was nice enough for you to back me up Jamie.

"I couldn't help but agree young lad." Fancy Pants nodded in agreement. "I, for one, find this dress charmingly rustic."

The high class ponies gasped and looked at Fancy Pants as he approached Twilight but looked at Rarity and said "And I think the dress you made for your friend is lovely."

"I couldn't agree more." Ren nodded with a tooth-eating grin.

Rarity smiled, feeling proud that Fancy Pants like it.

"I daresay every mare in Canterlot will be wanting one." Fancy Pants chuckled.

"Oh, I'd like to place my order right now!" Upper Crust declared.

"I think you should get two!" Jet Set added.

"What you two deserved is to shut up." I said, glaring at the two ponies.

"And who are you to tell us to shut up?" Jet Set threatened.

"L-leave him alone." Jamie said, looking at them angrily.

"And how about you shut up as well lad?" Upper Crust sneered. Jamie flinched in fear before glaring back at them and exclaimed "W-why not you? All you two ever did was insult us for no reason because we're from Ponyville. It's a popular cultural town that helped build many fortunes to this city! Like I said, if it wasn't for them, then Canterlot wouldn't be like this!"

"I agree old chum." Fancy Pants nodded. "We should be grateful for Ponyville. Even if ponies here thinks its uncouth, I appreciate them for ever building our gracious city a long time ago."

"B-b-but..." Upper Crust and Jet Set looked extremely shocked upon hearing Fancy Pants agreeing with Jamie while I smiled at him, proud that he finally stood up for himself.

"Now then..." Fancy Pants walked towards Rarity, completely ignoring the couple and asked Rarity "How about you introduce me to your friends?"

"With pleasure!" Rarity beamed, causing me to smile happily at her. Rarity...I'm proud of you. I'm glad that you finally learned that you shouldn't be afraid of who you are or where you from, you should accept who you are.

"Oh...umm...Twilight?" I turned to see Jamie and Ren handing Twilight some gifts. "T-this for you y-you."

Jamie handed her a wrapped present, which she accepted as she ripped it open and revealed the book they told me last night. 

"AH! My Starswirl The Bearded Biography Vol. 1! I always wondered what ever happened to it! How did you find it?" Twilight questioned, which made Jamie smile nervously and replied "L-let's just say I had some help."

"You be surprise how we got them. Also, here ya go." Ren said, handing her his present, which she opened, revealing a lab science equipment. 

"Oh my goodness! My old lab science equipment!" Twilight gasped happily. "I haven't used it in years. Tell me you guys, where did you get them?"

"It's a long story, but we'll tell ya next time." Ren assured, which Twilight seemed to understand.

"Hey Twilight..." I walked over and handed her a present, which she accepted and gasped excitedly upon knowing what it was. 

"T-this is a..."

"Starswirl The Bearded Bookmark. How I got it? Let's just say I bumped into somepony who seems to know you, but couldn't make it to your party due to running into some errands." I explained with a soft smile as I was soon wrapped around in a tight hug by Twilight as she exclaimed "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I always wanted one! I'll never forget it Mason!"

"Y-you're welcome..." I said, smirking at her as she ended the hug while everypony at the party clapped happily, seeing how excited and pleased Twilight was with our gifts.

"You know Mason...you done a very good job." I turned to see Rarity walking over with a soft smile at them. "You gotten Twilight the perfect gift and made me realize to be myself and not be afraid to tell people where I'm from."

"That was technically all you. I was just pushing you to the right path." I smirked, which made Rarity giggled.

"I suppose so. But I want to thank you Mason darling." I smiled at her as I replied "Whatever..."

"By the way..." Soon, I was wrapped around a blue aura as she glared at me and said "We're gonna have a little talk about inviting them over without letting me know."

Oh...crapbaskets...



The Next Day
Well, it was sorta a fun week spending time here in Canterlot, and it was worth it due to having that epic party last night. But that punishment Rarity gave me...my face still hurts. Apparently, she slapped me real hard on the left cheek so hard that it was badly bruised. Well, now I learned my lesson to never mess with Rarity ever again.

Soon, me, Kodi, Jamie, and Ren were packing up her stuff while she wrote a letter on her sketch table. 

Dear Princess Celestia, I wanted to tell you about the important lesson I learned during my visit.

"Now that I would like to hear." We immediately turned around to see Princess Celestia walking in our room, overhearing what Rarity was writing. The fashionista smiled sheepishly at the princess, before looking over at the window and continued her letter.

I learned that no matter where you go in life, you should never forget that you are the product of your home and your friends!

"And something to be always proud of, no matter what." I added, smiling softly at the white unicorn. 

Rarity nuzzled me, much to my embarrassment while Jamie, Kodi, Ren, and Princess Celestia looked at each other and smiled happily as the princess said "A lesson well learned."

"Yep!" Ren nodded before turning to the mountain of suitcases. "So....how are we gonna carry this back?" 

"I got it." I assured, much to their surprise.

"Y-you sure about that M-Mason?" Jamie asked in worried.

"I carried worse. Trust me." I stated before walking over and carried the bags until Rarity stopped me.

"Actually, it would be better if you took a break while the boys take it." Rarity offered, much to our surprise.

"You sure?" I asked.

"Absolutely! You deserved a break after all." Wow, that's really nice of her. I guess she really has learned her lesson.

"Oh come on! Do we have to?" Kodi complained.

"Y-yeah...it does feel like carrying a dumbbell." Ren added.

"Less talking, more packing." Rarity said, much to their disappointment.

"Well...I-I guess she has a point." Jamie pointed out, causing Ren and Kodi to sweat-dropped and sighed while I shook my head and smiled at them. Well, I guess she almost learned her lesson in some way.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 38 - Always Be With You
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

....
........What is this? I was in a room....this room...this is my room. What am I doing in my family's mansion? Suddenly, I noticed a bunch of meteors soon falling onto the city, and eventually, the backyard of our mansion.

"W-what in the world?!" I gasped before immediately turning on the TV, and changing it to the FOX 5 News to figure out what's happening!

"A batch of mysterious black meteorites are crashing into every part of the world. But scientists deduced that the biggest meteor just landed towards somewhere in New Jersey. These meteorites are very dangerous. Right now, the president just issued an order on people to hide out in the bomb shelter just in Mojave's Desert out in California or find a place to hide yourselves from these showers like hide in the subway stations or your own basement. Everyone around the world, please stay safe and go to the evacuation point just outside of your cities. I repeat! Please stay safe and-"

Soon, the TV soon started flickering until it was immediately shut down. 

"W-what?" I asked myself, my face going pale as I felt a rumbling sound echoing around the mansion. Soon, a bunch of meteors came crashing through the window.

"AHHHHHH!" I screamed as I immediately ran out of the place and took the emergency exit of the mansion before heading outside, seeing so many meteors crashing down into the place. Why...why is this happening?

"Jamie!" Huh? That voice....is that one of my sisters, Molly? I turned to see a silhoette of one of my sisters, calling my name out.

"Come on Jamie! You need to hurry and get to the emergency bunker!" I nodded as I immediately ran away in fear, not wanting to get myself killed as my other family members, all of them just my sisters, step-sisters, and half-sisters as they headed to the emergency bunker my dad installed for times like these. As I was about to enter...

BOOM! CRASH!

I turned around and duck myself for cover as a meteor crashed into our backyard along with the others...huh? Hold on, I saw a glimpse of a light. I looked up to see that the meteorite...was making a peculiar glow. It was making a magenta glow...just what kind of meteor is this? 

I slowly walked towards it, ignoring the entire scene of what was happening out here and ignoring everything on whoever's calling me as I extended my hand in curiosity and...touched it, and once I did, I felt a great urge of some energy flowing through my body, causing me to scream in agony as I felt so much energy flowing out of the meteor I touched...just what is this? What's happening to me?! Why...WHY?! Someone help me! Please! Help me!



"AHHHH!" I immediately got up and panted heavily, my face almost look pale. Oh my...it was just a dream...what a relief. I-I thought for a second there that it felt real. What was that? Why did it felt so...intense? What did I touched? Ugh, I'm already having a headache just by thinking about it. Huh? Why am I on the table again? Oh man...I guess I was up researching again....I'm going to have to make note of not read any books at midnight. It's already becoming a problem because I can't get 8 hours of sleep.

Anyway, I should get ready for the day and head out to see what else we got today here in Ponyville. I soon got dressed in my normal attire, which consist of a short sleeved black button up business suit shirt with a red tie that has an Japanese symbol that stands for 'Future' and I had dark blue pants with my brown dress shoes. I combed my blue hair that has a small ahoge in it. I soon exited out of my room and came down the spiral staircase of my library. I haven't read much of these books lately, but I should if I want to find out more clues on how did my signature books get here in this 'home-ship' in the first place.

I soon pressed the button of the elevator, immediately opening the doors and heading down, and five minutes later, I was down in the first floor, or the Living Room/Kitchen/Dining Room of this place.

"Oh good morning Jamie." I turned to see Kaede greeting me with a smile as she sat with the others on the table, eating breakfast.

"O-oh! Good m-morning everyone..." I smiled softly at them as I came over to the dining room and sat down with them, with Mason handing a plate of omelette to me. "Oh...thank you M-Mason."

"The pleasure is all mine." Mason nodded before taking a bite of his pancakes.

"Can I have more?" Kodi asked, his bowl already empty.

"Sure thing pal!" Ren nodded before handing him a plate filled with pancakes and dropping them into his eating bowl. Kodi licked his lips and began eating all that pancakes, causing me to grin nervously. 

"You sure you can feed him that much pancakes?" I asked in worried.

"Don't worry, he'll be fine. I've seen ate pancakes tons of times." Ren assured with a grin.

"So anyway, I gotta go and take Carrie to school." Mason said as soon as he was finished with his breakfast.

"Oh Mason, how's your cheek?" Kaede asked in worried, seeing the white bandage formed an 'X' on his left cheek as he sighed and replied "It's feeling better lately. Don't worry."

"You sure? Rarity sure slapped you real hard." Ren said in concern. Yeah, just last week back when we were at Canterlot, Rarity punished Mason by slapping him so hard that he had to get a bandage to cover his bruise and a stern talk, which he endure, but Rarity soon forgave him.

Mason let out a frustrated sigh and replied "Yes...I'm alright. Come on Carrie, let's go."

"Okay." Carrie nodded as she finished eating her breakfast and grabbed her backpack and followed her brother outside as he took her to the Ponyville School. From what I learned from Twilight and Ren, she already made friends from before she ever went there. I think their names was Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Though then again...I won't criticize the names like before back when we were in Canterlot. 

"So guys, what do you wanna do?" Ren asked curiously. "I was thinking of playing some video games, read some Mangas, practiced shooting from the Hacking Gun, and ride my hover board around town." 

"To be honest, I don't know. I was thinking of going over to Carousel Boutique to go and practice more on making more clothes to improve my sowing skills." Kaede shrugged.

"And I was planning on going over to the Golden Oaks Library to help Twilight out on some research." I added with a small grin.

"I see...well today is going to be boring." Ren sighed.

"Hey, don't worry. We'll be fine, Ren. You got me and the other animals, right?" Kodi asked happily as we heard a 'meow' next to me. I took a closer look to see that Rosy was sleeping right next to him. Right, how in the world did I missed that?

“Ahh, looks like Rosy enjoyed her nap with Kodiak.” Kaede giggled.

“Heh heh, I was just looking out for her.” Kodi smiled before nuzzling with Rosy.

“It’s quite amazing seeing a dog and a cat get along so well.” I muttered loudly. “I mean, normally, dogs and cats always fought and been against each other because scientists theorize that cats and dogs have some sort of rivalry against each other…”

“Well not Kodiak and Rosy, those two are fine together.” Ren pointed out, catching me off-guard. 

“O-oh…right. It’s just a rare s-sight, that’s all.” I said with a nervous grin. Suddenly, we heard a knock on the door, prompting Ren to go and answer it with Kodi and Rosy by his side as he opened the door and saw nopony around. 

“Huh…strange. Could’ve sworn somepony knocked.” Ren said with a confused look before noticing something on the ground. Me and Kaede got up from the dining table and headed to the front where Ren picked up a strange pink envelope. “Hello, what’s this?”

“Is that a letter?” Kodi asked as Rosy stood on his back and tilted her head in confusion.

“It is, but who’s it from?” Kaede wondered. 

“Well…why not we open it? Somepony must’ve delivered it to us.” Ren shrugged.

“Are you s-sure? What if i-it’s brought to the wrong address…and besides, I don’t think we even have a m-mailbox.” I pointed out.

“True, but I’m just curious.” Ren said, opening it up.

“H-hey wait-” I was soon cut-off the moment Ren opened it, and soon a pile of confetti launched right into his face. He blew some out of his mouth as he picked out the note from the letter. “N-never mind…”

“Huh? What’s up with the confetti?” Kaede asked, picking one out of Ren’s hair as he pulled off a deadpan expression from that surprise. “Wait…confetti…Hey guys, you don’t think that the one who send us this letter was Pinkie Pie, right?”
“My thoughts exactly.” Ren muttered.

“Oh really? What does the note say?” I asked curiously as Ren wiped away the confetti off his face and began reading it aloud to us.

Dear Rennie, Jamie, Kay, Masey, Carrie and Kodi, you are humbly invited to Spike’s birthday this afternoon! It’s so totally gonna be awesome! You all definitely to come! Will you go to the party? 
- Yes
- Definitely
- Absolutely?

“Uhhh….” We all gave out blank stares, seeing the choices that were on the contents of the letter. Yep…definitely Pinkie Pie.

“I say we should go!” Kodi said as he wagged his tail excitedly upon hearing about Spike’s birthday.

"Meow!" Rosy agreed with a big grin.

"That's so cool!" Ren said in excitement.

"Yeah, it would be nice to go to another party." Kaede agreed. "It's been a while since we've been to a party."

"But...didn't we already had one. First Twilight, now Spike? Man, haven't w-we been to different parties enough?" I asked curiously. "I mean, it's very unhealthy to eat any more sweets Pinkie makes. Not that I-I'm being r-rude to her but..."

"Jamie, come on! It'll be awesome!" Ren said.

"Yeah! I want more of that delicious cake of hers!" Kodi added, licking his lips as Kaede picked up Rosy from his back and stated "Yeah! Besides, we can at least do something fun for a while."

"Well...when you put it like that...I-I-I guess we can try to have fun." I said. "A-Alright...we can go, but first...I'm gonna need my notebook. I'm just curious to learn more about each other, that's a-all."

"Well hurry up! I'm getting hungry again!" Kodi grinned, much to our surprise.

"W-what? But didn't you eat all the pancakes Mason made?" Kaede asked, putting her hands on her hips with a raised brow.

"Well what can I say? I'm a hungry hungry dog." Kodi replied.

"Ain't that the truth?" Ren smirked. Soon after, I headed back to my room by taking the elevator and grabbed my notebook from the ship's library before heading back outside, only to find Mason was walking back towards us.

"Yo Mase!" Ren waved at him with a smile. "Back already?" 

"Apparently so." Mason replied with a smirk. "Apparently, the school bell rang just before we arrived in time. I wished Carrie goodbye and I'll pick her up later at noon. So what I missed?"

"We were just about to head over to Golden Oaks Library to celebrate Spike's birthday." Kaede answered, holding her stuffed cat toy in her arms while Rosy sat next to her shoulder.

"Didn't we celebrate like enough birthdays for a month? I mean, first my sister, then Twilight, and now Spike? Didn't we celebrate enough?" 

"Come on Mason! Look at the bright side..." Kodi licked his lips and began drooling as he muttered "Cake."

"Unbelievable..." Mason sighed before pinching the bridge of his nose. "And I suppose you guys are willing to go?"

"Relax Mason, we'll have tons of fun." Ren said with a grin.

"I-I do want to get out more and try out different s-stuff..." I said with a soft smile. Mason shook his head and sighed before smiling at us and said "Well alright, let's go then."

"Wait...seriously?" 

"Yeah, you guys are so stubborn. So there's no point on changing your minds." Mason smiled. "Besides...my sister might kill me for not trying to go hang out with you guys."

"Good point." Kaede agreed. 

"Can't say about you?" Ren grinned back at him. "You're more stubborn than Applejack and Rainbow Dash combined."

"Whatever. Let's head over to the library." Mason said as we began to head over to the place as we began to get ready to celebrate another birthday party for one of our friends. I-I don't understand...it feels like a month has passed, but it's only been a week. Is Equestria's time goes faster than Earth's time? If so, then this is something I must study about.



"Huh, you know, it's been a while since we last came here." Ren stated, looking over at the library with a grin. 

"It didn't feel l-like a while." I pointed out.

"Meh, it feels like a while." 

"Oh hi everyone." We turned around to see Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash coming here.

"Hey Flutters! Hey girls, what's up?" Ren asked before he hugged Fluttershy, but not too tightly upon noticing the present in her hooves.

"We're doing alright. We were heading out into the library to give Spike these special presents." Fluttershy replied with a soft smile before she was licked in the cheek by Kodi, much to her joy.

"So I bet those gifts are for Spike, correct?" Mason questioned.

"Yep yep yep!" Pinkie nodded, appearing in front of him as he was caught off guard by her. "It was a good thing that Twilight tasked me to go tell you guys about it! I'm glad you guys got that letter!"

"Yeah, we knew it belonged to you." Kaede sighed as Pinkie appeared right in front of her and asked "Really?! How did you know?!"

"I-it didn't take a brainer to figure that out." Kaede replied, sweat-dropping a bit. "I mean, Ren was blasted with confetti in the face the moment he opened it."

"That is true." Ren agreed.

"Well that's Pinkie Pie's way on surprising her friends." Applejack smiled.

"So where's Carrie? I was hoping she would be here as well." Rarity said, looking around to see Mason's younger sister wasn't around.

"I took her to the Ponyville school. It is Monday, after all." Mason pointed out.

"Oh right, it must be a bummer for her to miss something out like this." Rarity said sadly.

"Don't worry, I'll save some cake for her. So it shouldn't be a problem. Besides, she would've want to come here." Mason softly smiled before crossing his arms.

"Ahh, that's so nice for you to come here for your sister, Mason." Fluttershy smiled, causing Mason to cover his face with his red scarf, his face turning red.

"W-well...it's not like I had a choice." Mason admitted before noticing something on Rarity's neck. "Rarity...is that a necklace?"

"Oh, you just noticed?" Rarity asked before continuing "Well you see, just last week, I came over to the library to ask Twilight if I could borrow some books on historical fashion until I noticed Spike with this beautiful fire ruby gem, and I thought it looked amazing. So Spike allowed me to have it, which was so generous of him."

"How ironic for someone who represents Generosity herself." Ren chuckled. "Though, it looks great on you. Right Mason?"

"Y-yes." Mason nodded, softly smiling at her. "You look amazing with that."

"Why thank you Mason." Rarity giggled.

"Yeah yeah, whatever." Rainbow cut in, getting impatient as she exclaimed "Let's just hurry up and get ready for the party!"

"U-Umm...Rainbow Dash?" I called. "Is that dumbbell in your hooves?"

"Yeah! Thought Spike might like it when he needs it to exercise!" Rainbow nodded as she started demonstrating it and began using it.

"But...Spike is only a kid." I pointed out.

"I don't know, I've used dumbbells when I started out my training as a personal guard." Mason stated, causing us all to look at him in shock. Is he serious?! I never heard a kid ever using a dumbbell...much less try at least.

"That's...surprising. Even for someone like you." Kaede said, rubbing her cheek in embarrassment.

"Anyway...wanna head inside?" Ren offered.

"Yeah, let's...wait, where did Pinkie Pie go?" Kodi asked, noticing that she was gone.

"Huh...must've went in right before us." Ren shrugged before the rest of us came in, seeing Pinkie blowing into a party horn while Twilight was wiping Spike's face with a washcloth. 

"Happy birthday!" Pinkie exclaimed in joy before bouncing around merrily around the room as we came in with smiles on our faces. She soon blew into the party horn again and shouted "Party time, woo-hoo!"

"Alright, chill out Pinkie!" Ren chuckled as Kodi rushed in with an excited look and said "So where's the cake? Because I'm starving!"

"You too boy." Ren said with a soft grin. Spike soon came over in jaw-dropped upon seeing the gifts in our friends' hooves.

"A-are...those for me?" Spike asked, slowly forming a big smile.

"You bet they are, birthday boy." Applejack nodded as she and the other mares handed him their presents in Spike's arms, but the weight of them caused him to fall and dropped them. 

"Whoa, you okay Spike?!" Kaede asked in concern. Spike soon got up and dust himself off before replying "Y-yeah, I'm okay..."

"Hm? Is there a problem S-Spike?" I asked. 

"Yeah, I mean! Look at these presents! Aren't you excited?" Ren asked with a grin.

"Yeah but...this is the first time I'm celebrating my birthday here in Ponyville." Spike explained. "Though every year, Twilight gives me the same gift...a book..."

"Why am I not surprise?" Mason asked before gazing at Twilight, who held a book in her magic aura as she hid it behind herself and blushed in embarrassment before walking away, overhearing our conversation.

"But...I think getting a book for your birthday is a w-wonderful idea." I said with a smile. "I mean, I get that every year in my birthday..."

"Wait, you serious Jamie?!" Rainbow asked, looking at me in shock. "Y-you mean to tell me that you get the same gift every year? A book?! Really?!"

"Well, I don't mind. I-I get it from my sisters every year..." I replied with a meek frown.

"Ugh, seriously? Can't you get anything cooler? Pfft! Eggheads." Rainbow rolled her eyes, causing me to glare angrily at her.

"Do you want me to lecture you about books again?!" I growled, causing her to widen her eyes in shock as she began remembering my reaction for when we first met and how she disrespect books and their authors! I'm an author myself and I do not like when people or ponies disrespect books like that!

"N-no! Course not! I-I didn't it!" Rainbow pleaded, causing me to smile softly and reply "Well that's good enough for me to hear."

With that, everyone began to laugh at her reaction, terrified of my lecture.

"Well, I havent' expected you to go out like that." Mason said with a smirk. "I guess your love for books motivates you."

"W-well...umm..." Well this is an embarrassment.

"And it looks like your motivation is gone." Kodi sighed.

"By the way, sorry if we couldn't get you any gifts Spike. We didn't know it was your birthday today." Kaede said with a sad smile.

"Nah, it's okay Kaede. I'm glad that you guys finally arrived to my birthday party. I did wanted all my friends to show up." Spike smiled.

"That's nice of ya Spike." Kodi said, grinning back at him. "So anyway, I know that you can't have a birthday party without-"

"The birthday cake?" Pinkie asked, pulling out a big birthday cake that had many gems on it, which was a dragon's favorite type to eat. 

"...Yes." Kodi said, licking his lips while Rosy eyed at the cake, having the urge to eat it as well.

"W-w-w-w-w..." I looked at her at shock, unable to believe what I just witnessed. "HOW?!"

"How many times do we even have to tell you?" Mason sighed. "It's Pinkie Pie, get over it."

"There's no way I can get over something like this!" I complained before taking out my journal and began taking notes on what just transpired right in front of me. "Come on! Details! Details! Details!"

"Well...he's off in his own little world." Rarity sighed.

"Eggheads..." Rainbow muttered, which I ignored as I continued to write down the notes on my journal. I'll show them what real logic is on this pink Earth Pony! There's no way someone could accept the weirdness and randomness from this creature! It's...too uncanny. Then again...magic somehow exist in this world...Ooh, I don't know what's real or what's fiction anymore...

"But wait, isn't that cake made out of rubies and sapphires?" Mason questioned. "We can't eat that."

"I know." Pinkie shrugged bluntly before pulling out her party cannon and firing another cake out of it, which landed in Ren's hands. "That's why I bake another!"

Before I could open my mouth, Twilight gave me a deadpan glare and said "Don't. You. Even. Dare."

Well, what you expect?! I'm curious!

"Now, speaking of presents..." Rarity's horn glowed as she showed us a bunch of taffeta capes. I know what they are since I've seen them on a book about fashion once. "This is from my new line of taffeta capes. I'm going to make one for each of you!"

We were all amazed by Rarity's designs for her taffeta cape as she continued "I've been inspired by the generosity of my little Spikey-wikey, who gave me this beautiful fire ruby, one of the kindest acts I've ever experienced."

Spike smiled happily and made a weird expression at her, almost a love expression of her. Soon Rarity began nuzzling Spike, much to his joy. Hmm...it must feel nice to be in love...I wished I can understand what that feels like...maybe someday with...huh? What am I thinking? Why am I thinking these kinds of thoughts? This is so embarrassing...



Suddenly, I was pulled out and felt something popping right in my head. There, I saw myself with some sort of machine on my head with my eyes closed and had a serious expression on my face. W-what? What is this? I-I can't remember...

"I don't wanna die...I want...to survive...for the fate of everyone who believed in us...I...want...to...change..."

W-what? What did I just say?



"Ugh!" I said, clutching onto my head in pain, which the others noticed.

"Jamie, are you okay?!" Twilight asked, walking over with a concern look.

"Did you get an ice cream headache?" Pinkie asked. "I know how that feels."

"Umm...Pinkie?" Applejack gave her a blank look and said "Jamie didn't even eat any ice cream."

"Well maybe he did by eating it for breakfast...that's what I would do. Hmm...better make note of it." Pinkie said, rubbing her chin in thought.

"N-nothing...nothing." I said, holding my head in pain. "It's just a headache all of a sudden..."

"Are you sure? Do you want me to put a spell to get rid of the headache?" Twilight asked.

"No thank you, I'm good." I assured with a nervous grin. 

"Are you sure you are alright?" Mason asked.

"Yeah, sounded like it was a mighty headache." Applejack said with a raised brow.

"I-I told you guys that I-I'm fine." I assured with a nervous grin. However...I know what I saw...I'll tell them later after the party. Though...what in the world was that? Was it a memory that I forgotten or something?



Ren's POV
Well, everypony sure are good at finding gifts for special occasions. Apparently, almost the entire room was filled up with many opened presents. I was enjoying Spike opening the gifts while Kodi, Kaede, and Rosy enjoyed eating the other cake that Pinkie got for us. It was red velvet, but Kodi didn't mind as he liked any cake he liked. Except Coconut because he states that it taste so...weird. Well, it is Coconut and they are filled with milk.

"Man, this has been the best birthday party ever!" Kodi exclaimed happily. "I got some cake, and Spike's enjoying opening his presents."

"Seems so." Mason smiled. Soon, Spike opened up another box and pulled out an apple-themed blanket.  

"Applejack, I can't thank you enough for this great blanket!" Spike hugged Applejack real tight, much to her embarrassment. "I really needed a new one!"

"Come on Spike, you already thanked me fifteen times. I'm starting to get a little embarrassed." Applejack chuckled with a light smile.

"I know I keep thanking you guys, but I'm just so grateful! I wish this party could last forever." Spike hoped as we all smiled at him, seeing how happy he was celebrating his birthday. You know, it reminds me of my seventh birthday party that I gotten the Playstation 3 back then and I was extremely happy to play Sonic Unleashed and the Crash Bandicoot series on it. It was the best day ever. What's better was that I was happily enjoying playing it with my siblings. Heh, what luck.

"Duh!" Pinkie said, appearing between Applejack, Twilight, and Jamie as she pushed them away and said "The party can't last forever cause you have to go to Sugarcube Corner, cause the Cakes said they have a special surprise for you, cause it's your birthday!"

"No way!" Spike gasped before running off towards the door.

"I said the party couldn't last forever, but it doesn't need to end right now!" Pinkie yelled, but Spike ignored her as he slammed the door shut. "Ah phooey..."

"Oh well, it was fun when it lasted." Kaede sighed before forming a small grin as she picked up and petted her pet kitten. "Though, we had fun, didn't we Rosy?"

"Meow!" Rosy nodded before nuzzling her, causing Kaede to giggle a bit.

"You know, I always love birthday parties, but I never had one of my own before." Kodi admitted. 

"Hey don't worry boy, we'll make one for ya next time." I assured, patting on the head. Kodi jumped on my chest and started licking me on the face, causing me to laugh excitedly.

"Thanks Ren! You're the best friend a talking dog could ever asked!" Kodi laughed.

"Thanks! That's really nice of ya Kodi!" I grinned, rubbing my head bashfully.

"Hey guys..." Hm? We turned to see Jamie feeling quite uncomfortable all of a sudden. "I've been meaning to ask you something for a while..."

"Yes? What is it Jamie?" Twilight asked curiously.

"Have...you been having strange dreams or visions lately?" Jamie asked, causing us to widen our eyes in surprise.

"Well, I haven't for a while, so no." Kaede shook her head.

"Same here." I shrugged.

"No...not really." Mason shook his head before asking "Why do you ask? Did you remember something?"

"W-well...remember when I had that h-headache? Well...I think I did see s-something." I said, which surprised everyone.

"Really?!" Twilight asked in excitement. "That's great! So what did you see?"

"I-I don't know...Just earlier, I had a weird vision of me having some weird machine on my head and I said something...I just don't remember what it was."

"Well that's a bummer..." Kaede sighed.

"Weird machine? What in the hay are you saying?" Rainbow asked.

"I didn't get a good look on it..." I admitted sadly. "Sorry if I was useless to you guys."

"No no no, Jamie. You did great." Twilight smiled brightly. "It sounds like you guys are slowly recovering your memories."

"Yeah...though that weird machine part...I think I once saw it a really long while back." Ren said, shocking us all.

"What?!" We all asked.

"Yeah, back before any of you guys woke up from those pods, I remember seeing myself having a weird machine on my head and saying something...but I don't remember what it was either." 

"Well...truth be told, so did I. I just...don't know what's going." Mason spoke up. "What do these memories hold?"

"Well...I had memories of what you guys are describing." Kaede added. "It was just two months ago when I was getting used to my surroundings around Ponyville."

"Really? You all remember the same thing?" Applejack questioned.

"Oh dear, what do you think they mean?" Fluttershy asked in concern, flying over to Ren with a worried look. "Ren...are you and the others feeling alright?"

"Don't worry Flutters, we're fine." Ren assured with a soft grin.

"Though, why would you darling remember the same thing?" Rarity questioned.

"That I wonder too...I need to study this." Twilight said.

"Well that's a good start, right?" Kaede said with a smile. "I mean, we're starting to remember everything. Hopefully, we might figure out a way on how to get back home or when Princess Celestia finds a way to get us back there, that is."

"I know right? All we have to do is to keep believing in Celeste to find us a spell that might get us back home." I said in determination.

"Y-yeah...that's great." Jamie nodded with a soft smile. "I'm really worried about my sisters...I wonder how they're doing."

"Same here. I wonder the same with Elena. I bet even Carrie misses her." Mason sighed, crossing his arms.

"Don't worry, we'll get you guys back home to them." Twilight assured with a soft grin.

"Whatever...right now I need to head over to the Ponyville School to pick up my sister." Mason said as he began to take his leave. "I'll see you guys back home and Twilight..." Mason looked back at her with a serious expression and said "Please let us know if you found out anything."

"Oh...Okay." Twilight nodded before he took his leave.

"Ah shucks, I gotta go pick up Apple Bloon as well. See ya Twi, and tell Spike I said Happy Birthday." Applejack said, taking her leave out of the library.

"Same here. Tell Spikey-wikey that I'll see him later." Rarity winked before leaving the library.

"So Ren, you wanna head over to my cottage to help me tend the animals?" Fluttershy asked me with a soft smile before frowning a bit and asked "Well...if you're not too busy, that is."

"Don't worry Flutters, I won't mind." I grinned. "After all, I do need more lessons about romance."

"Tee-hee...I see why not." Fluttershy giggled.

"Well you guys can go on. I'll head back home and watch some TV." Kaede sighed.

"I'll stay here and help Twilight on some research on our m-missing memories." jamie added.

"Thanks for the help Jamie." Twilight smiled, causing Jamie to blush a bit as he said "Y-yeah...A-anytime T-Twilight..."

Me, Fluttershy, Kaede, and Rosy looked at each other in confusion, wondering what's up with Jamie. Huh...he's sure acting weird...unless...nah, that couldn't be. 

"Oh well, gotta go." I said before turning to Kodiak and said "Come on Kodi, let's go."

However, when I turned to him, I saw him moping down on the ground with his ears down and had a sad look.

"Hey Kodiak, what's wrong?" I asked, bending down to his height and patted him on the back, only to receive silence. "Kodi?"

"Strange, he was energetic just a while ago." Fluttershy pointed out.

"You don't think he has a stomache, do ya?" Kaede asked in concern.

"Maybe...let's bring to the cottage, Ren." I nodded, agreeing with Fluttershy's request as I picked up Kodiak and began carrying him towards Fluttershy's cottage. 

"Man...you sure weigh a ton." I muttered, having difficult carrying him.

"Wait! I'm coming too!" Kaede said. "I mean, Rosy seemed pretty worried for Kodiak too." 

One look at that kitten's face and we realized that she was right, Rosy looked at Kodi with a sad and worried look, probably wondering why the long face he has.

"Okay Kay, thanks." I nodded before turning to Jamie and Twilight. "We'll be back later. See ya."

"Bye." Twilight and Jamie said in unison as me, Kaede, Rosy, and Fluttershy headed towards the cottage outside of Ponyville, trying to find out what's wrong with my best friend.



Later
“Anything wrong with him Flutters?”

“Hmm….” Fluttershy examined Kodi for a bit, checking his teeth, rubbing his stomach, and even examined his eyes to see what was wrong with my friend. “He doesn’t seemed to have a fever…nor a stomache, or anything. He feels fine.”

“But…why is he acting like that?” Kaede asked. Rosy came over and nuzzled Kodi, but he glanced away in a sad mood. 

“Do you think Kodiak is feeling sad?” I asked in worried.

“It seems so…” Fluttershy wondered. “But why?”

“I don’t know…” I shrugged before bending down and scratching underneath his chin. 

“Hey Kodi, do you wanna talk about it?” 

However, Kodi just stood silent and ignored me. “Kodi…” He always love getting scratch from either the ear or belly, what’s wrong with him?

“Oh my…” Kaede muttered, covering her mouth in concern. “Why won’t he talk back to us?”

“Who knows?” I wondered as Rosy sat on his head and started purring on him, which he then again ignored and didn’t bother to listen. Kodiak…you worry me boy. 

“I don’t know why…maybe you guys need to try and spend some time with him. Surely that’ll make him smile and talk again.” Fluttershy suggested.

“Alright, let’s head home and play outside. You always love that, besides eating and sleeping on me sometimes.” I said with a soft grin towards Kodiak, but he still wouldn’t respond. I just hope Fluttershy is right that maybe we can try cheering him up by spending more time with him.



Later
“Anything wrong with him Flutters?”

“Hmm….” Fluttershy examined Kodi for a bit, checking his teeth, rubbing his stomach, and even examined his eyes to see what was wrong with my friend. “He doesn’t seemed to have a fever…nor a stomache, or anything. He feels fine.”

“But…why is he acting like that?” Kaede asked. Rosy came over and nuzzled Kodi, but he glanced away in a sad mood. 

“Do you think Kodiak is feeling sad?” I asked in worried.

“It seems so…” Fluttershy wondered. “But why?”

“I don’t know…” I shrugged before bending down and scratching underneath his chin. “Hey Kodi, do you wanna talk about it?” 

However, Kodi just stood silent and ignored me. “Kodi…” He always love getting scratch from either the ear or belly, what’s wrong with him?

“Oh my…” Kaede muttered, covering her mouth in concern. “Why won’t he talk back to us?”

“Who knows?” I wondered as Rosy sat on his head and started purring on him, which he then again ignored and didn’t bother to listen. Kodiak…you worry me boy. 

“I don’t know why…maybe you guys need to try and spend some time with him. Surely that’ll make him smile and talk again.” Fluttershy suggested.

“Alright, let’s head home and play outside. You always love that, besides eating and sleeping on me sometimes.” I said with a soft grin towards Kodiak, but he still wouldn’t respond. I just hope Fluttershy is right that maybe we can try cheering him up by spending more time with him.



Later

We soon returned back to the home-ship with me carrying Kodi, much to my disappointment due to how heavy for a recently grown puppy to carry. 

“You think that maybe we can try to make him smile soon? Rosy is feeling depressed for him as well.” Kaede said, showing her pet kitten not feeling energetic as she gazes at Kodi with a sad look.

“Don’t worry Kay, I’m sure we’ll find a way on how to make him happy.” I assured as we approached the home-ship until the door opened, revealing Spike holding….“Spike? What are you doing with my Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Switch?”

“And my diary?!” Kaede gasped as Spike smiled sheepishly at us and replied “Oh…well you know, today’s my birthday, so I just thought that maybe I needed more gifts.”

“But didn’t you get plenty of gifts from the others?” I asked with a raised brow. 

“Y-yeah…Well see ya!” Spike chuckled nervously as he tried to run away until he was grabbed by Mason, holding him by the tail with Carrie standing next to her brother. “H-hey!”

“And where exactly did you get those stuff?” Mason questioned. “Because I don’t remember giving you permission to take our stuff away.”

“Yeah! You even stole my backpack from me!” Carrie added, glaring at the dragon.

“R-right…” Spike chuckled as Mason held his hand and gestured him to give it back, much to his disappointment. “Ugh…fine.” He soon gave back my gaming consoles, Carrie’s backpack and Kaede’s diary to Mason as he settled him down and allowed him to go. 

“I don’t know what’s up with you Spike, but this isn’t you.” Mason said sternly.

“You’re right…I’ll totally returned all the stuff back to the others like Twilight said. I promise.” 

“Wait what?” I asked with a raised brow as Spike froze in shock, realizing what he just said. 

“Uhh…nothing!” Spike replied quickly.

“Spike…what’s up with you?” Kaede questioned. “You’re acting too…grabby, all of a sudden.”

“N-no I’m not! I’m totally-” Spike paused as he let out a hissing sound, causing him to cover his mouth while we stared in shock at what we just witnessed. “Later!” Spike soon ran off back to Ponyville while we looked at each other in worried.

“So I wasn’t the only one who saw that, right?” I asked in concern, but all I received were nods.

“Yeah…why did Spike hiss at us like a snake?” Carrie wondered. 

“Don’t know. We’ll ask him when he’ start feeling better.” Mason sighed before noticing me carrying a silent but depress Kodiak. “What’s wrong with Kodi?”

“I-I don’t know…he was just like that when you and the others left.” I explained. “Right now, Fluttershy says that he’s feeling depress for some reason and suggested that maybe we needed to spend time with him to cheer him up.”

“Ahh, poor Kodiak. What’s wrong boy?” Carrie asked curiously, but Kodi didn’t bother to glance at her. “Kodi? Why aren’t you talking?”

“That’s also a problem. No matter how many times I keep asking him, he won’t talk.” I added with a sad look. “Do you guys think you could help?”

“Sure, I guess.” Mason shrugged with a soft smile. 

“Me too! I wanna help too!” Carrie added.

“I’ll help out too. I don’t want Kodiak to feel bad and feels like that.” Kaede pointed out with a smile. I grinned back at them and replied “Thanks you guys. Come on, let’s try with something he enjoys.”

“Well he does like to eat…” Mason thought before smiling. “And I think I got something that he’ll like.”

Soon, Mason brought us back to the kitchen and began making something and twenty minutes later, he presented it to us. A whole stack of pancakes to us. 

“Here you go. This will make you feel better.” Mason offered, slowly sliding the plate towards Kodi on the ground, but he glanced away.

“But those are his favorites. I sometimes make it for him to enjoy.” I stated with a sad look.

“Well…come on. They’re fresh.” Mason smiled, but all he received was silence. He let out a sigh and said “Well…I give. I just don’t get it…I always see him eat so many pancakes every morning, so why isn’t he interested in eating them?”

"There's really is something wrong with him." Kaede said in worried.

"I know! How about you fetch this ball?" Carrie suggested, taking out a small blue bouncy ball out of her pockets.

"And where exactly did you get that, young lady?" Mason asked with a raised brow.

"Oh, Pinkie Pie gave it to me the other day. She told me that she keeps many balls around Ponyville, including our home for some 'ball emergency' or whatever." Carrie explained, causing us to widen our eyes and looked at each other in shock.

"You don't think that she..." I asked.

"...We are going to have a long talk with that pink mare." Mason sighed.

"Hopefully we won't find any balls in our home." Kaede sighed.

"Same here." I nodded in agreement. Hopefully, no balls are found underneath or in my bed. "Well...let's try it. Surely that'll make him feel better."

"Okay! Come on Kodi! Fetch the ball!" Carrie threw the ball on the ground, but Kodi didn't react and let out a whimper. "Never mind..."

"Hey, why not go outside and play around?" I suggested, gazing out the window with a soft but nervous smile, but still...no reply. "I don't get it...he doesn't want to do anything..."

"I know...but why?" Carrie wondered. 

"Hmm..." Mason wondered, trying to piece the puzzles together in order to solve this mystery. "Wait...I think I got one."

"Really? What you got now?" Kaede asked. Mason gestured us as we formed a circle and began whispering to each other to make sure Kodiak doesn't hear us. 

"Remember he felt like that after the party? Maybe...he feels lonely that nobody ever celebrates his birthday." Mason suggested, surprising us upon hearing that.

"That might be true." Kaede agreed. "I mean, pet animals don't remember when they were born, so maybe he wants someone to get him a birthday party."

"Yeah! That has to work! Tomorrow guys, let's set up a birthday party." I grinned, which the others nodded as they agreed to help out on making Kodi's birthday party.

"Yeah! And besides...you know how he loves cake." Carrie said before realizing something. "Oh wait, Mason, didn't you went to Spike's Birthday party? Did you save any cake for me?"

"Yeah, it should be in the fridge." Mason answered, much to her joy. Soon, as we agreed to make the birthday tomorrow, Kaede noticed something behind me as I turned around and saw Rosy cuddling with Kodi, who still hasn't move an inch and didn't bother to hear us out.

"Meow..." Rosy said, sleeping right next to the depressed husky. 

"Poor  Rosy...she feels terrible that Kodi isn't acting himself anymore." Kaede said with a sad smile until I put a hand on her shoulder with a grin and said "Don't worry...we'll get him back to the way he was. I'm sure it'll work."

"Thanks Ren." Kaede smiled back at me as we watched over Rosy sleeping next to Kodi. Hang tight bud, we'll make you smile again.



The Next Day
Soon after, we began to get to work on Kodi's first birthday party. We got up on an early start without waking up the birthday husky as baked the cake, put up the decorations, with some help with my art skills of course while Kaede and Carrie set up the table. Soon, Luna began moving the moon down as Celeste brought the sun back up as we hid ourselves underneath the table as we saw Kodi sadly walking towards the kitchen with a heavy sigh. As soon as he showed up, we all popped out underneath the table and shouted "SURPRISE!"

"W-wha?!" Kodi gasped, seeing us appear before him.

"Happy birthday Kodiak!" I grinned. 

"Yep! We set this up just earlier because we wanted to cheer you guys up!" Kaede said with a happy smile while Rosy gave out a happy meow towards the dog.

"We even made you some chocolate cake. Your favorite which I still can't grasp how aren't you poisoned by it." Mason said as Carrie walked over and presented the huge cake that we made together for him.

"It's really good looking! I hope you like it!" Carrie added with a smile. Kodi looked at us for a moment before sighing and turning away, his ears have drooped down.

"Kodi!" I called as we ran and stopped him from leaving as we all looked at him with confused and concern looks. "What's wrong? I thought you would love it?"

"Yeah! we worked very hard on this for you!" Kaede added. "What's wrong with you? We thought you might like it."

"Mm-hmm! We thought that maybe the birthday party was what made you depressed." Carrie said sadly.

"Thanks guys...but the birthday party is what wasn't made me depressed." Kodi said sadly. "The party was great and I appreciate your concerns."

"But then what was the problem then? I don't understand." Mason asked with a confused look.

"...It's because on what you guys talked about yesterday." Kodi answered, much to our confusion. What we talked about...oh...Oh! 

"You mean...about our missing memories?" I asked curiously.

"Yes, it's just that...if you guys do find a way back home, then...you guys are going to leave me." We all looked at him with shocked, hearing his reason for being sad. Kodi...is that why you became sad? Because you think we might leave you. "You guys slowly keep remembering why you came here. If you guys managed to get all your memories back and find out how you got here...then you all have to leave not only me, but everypony else as well. You guys are so important to Twilight and the others...you're all important to me! You guys are like the family I never had and I don't want my family to separate! If you go...then I'll be lonely again..."

"Kodiak..." I muttered, feeling guilty.

"I-I'm sorry if I'm wasting my time." Kodi said, feeling sad at the verge of tears. "I-I should've told what's wrong in the first place, but instead, I shut myself and didn't confront and told you how I felt!"

Kodi ran off and headed back to my room, leaving us bewildered and heartbroken by what just happened.

"Kodi...don't go." I said sadly.

"It makes sense now that I'm realizing it..." Mason sighed. "He's been with us for almost a year and he's feeling heartbroken and depressed that we might go back to our world when the time is right. He just...can't handle that."

"Same here. I liked being in this place and my friends..." Kaede said sadly.

"Me too..." Carrie agreed, closing her eyes and letting out a tear. I darkened my face and began thinking what Kodiak said. Oh man...he does bring up a good point. How will everypony take when we somehow find a way back home when we get all our memories back? They hold the key to finding a way back home...if only...

"Guys!" Huh? The door was immediately forced opened by Jamie, who held a panic and yet tired look on his face. 

"Jamie! What's wrong?!" I asked.

"I-It's Spike! H-h-h-h-h..." Jamie continued to stutter in shock, unable to finish his sentence.

"What? What about Spike?" Kaede asked with a confused look.

"H-he's...just come out and see for yourself!" Jamie pleaded as we all nodded and rushed outside, and once we did...we saw something unbelievable.

"Holy crap!" I exclaimed, seeing a huge godzilla like monster rampaging Ponyville. 

"I-is that a giant monster?!" Carrie gasped. "W-where did it come from?!"

"I-It's Spike! That's what!" We all looked at Jamie with disbelief looks. He's kidding right?

"Spike?! How can that be possible?!" Mason demanded. 

"Yeah! Because I don't remember him growing into that!" I agreed. He's almost like Godzilla, but he's Spike. Which means...he's Spike-Zilla! Ha! 

"Tell me, did Spike acted different yesterday?!" Jamie asked with a serious expression, but its hard to tell due to those bags under his eyes.

"Actually, come to think of it, yeah." I nodded. "He started taking our things without our permission as he stated that it was his birthday, but Mason managed to get it back. But as we tried to figure out what's up with him, he hissed at us before running off!"

"What are you going on about, Jamie?" Mason asked with narrowed eyes.

"Well apparently, I accidentally slept at Twilight's place due to finding out more about our missing memories." Jamie explained as he gazed at the colossal Spike-zilla. "Until I heard a scream downstairs and find out Spike stole a bunch of stuff around town and grew an inch. We took him to the vet and doctor, but neither of them knew what was wrong with him until we bumped into Zecora!"

"Did she tell you what happened?" Mason asked.

"Yeah, apparently Spike was becoming like that because dragons are known for being greedy and they grew powerful and go through giant size when their greed became too much for them to handle!"

"That's crazy!" Kaede exclaimed. 

"Hey! That's what she stated!" Jamie retorted. "Right now, Spike already took many things around town, so I went over to you guys and tell you about it!"

"AHHHHH!" Huh? Hey, haven't I heard that high pitch scream before? 

"Rarity?!" Mason looked over to see that Spike-zilla held Rarity in his claws as she continued to struggle from his grasp and kept screaming in terror.

"LET ME GO YOU BRUTE!" Rarity screamed.

"Oh no! Rarity's in trouble!" Carrie gasped as Mason growled and darkened his face before running off towards Ponyville.

"Mason! Wait!" I called before taking out my Hacking Gun and took out the capsule, pressing the button, and throwing it into the air, bringing out the hoverboard, much to Jamie's shock.

"Wait, hold on?! A hoverboard?!" Jamie gasped. "Since when did you get a hoverboard?!"

"Long story, but no time! Kaede, stay here with Carrie!" I warned, which she nodded as I turned to Jamie and said "Jamie! Hop on!"

"W-wait what?" Jamie asked in surprise.

"No time to talk! Let's go!" I grabbed his tie and pulled him up to the hoverboard with him as we blasted off towards Ponyville.

"AHHHHH!" Jamie screamed, which hurt because it was right in my ear. God, give this guy an Oscar for best terrified scream.



We soon arrived to the scene, finding Spike-Zilla wrecking havoc across town like he started stealing a water tank, which caused the water to flood around town.

"Why in the world does he need a water tank for?" I wondered aloud.

"Who cares? Think you can try getting him back to his senses?" Jamie asked curiously.

"Oh, I got something!" I said, switching it on to 'Break' and aimed it at the giant Spike-Zilla. "Break!"

I shot mulitple 'Break' shots at him, causing him to flinch over until we heard another scream. Wait hold on, doesn't he have Rarity? Oh wait, I see her! She's being wrapped around by Spike-Zilla's tail!

"Hey watch it!" Rarity complained.

"Sorry Rares!" I apologized with a sheepish smile.

"Hang on! We're gonna g-get you down R-Rarity!" Jamie yelled.

"Well hurry! He's ruining my cape!" Rarity shouted back as she glared at Spike-zilla and said "Would you put me down you brute?!"

In response, Spike-zilla roared at her face, causing her mane to be ruined.

"How rude..." Rarity sighed.

"Hang on! I got this Rares!" I said before setting it up to 'Paralyze'. If I paralyze his body, then his tail will let go of Rarity. "Paralyze!"

Spike-zilla saw through this and grabbed a chariot cart and threw it at the yellow electric beam, causing it to explode. 

"Okay...that didn't work." 

"Tell me about it..." Jamie agreed with a deadpan expression.

"Don't worry Rarity! We'll save you!" We looked up to see Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash flying to the scene. Woo-hoo! Yeah! Reinforcements!

"Put her down, right now!" Rainbow yelled at his left ear, much to Spike-zilla's confusion.

"I-If you wouldn't mind, that is..." Fluttershy added.

"I mean it, dragon boy!" Rainbow threatened. 

"W-we'll be ever so grateful if you'd be so kind as to possibly consider..."

"Drop her scaly!" 

"N-no offense, but you girls aren't making the situation any better!" Jamie yelled. Soon, Spike-Zilla backed away a bit and started waving his tail around in hopes of knocking out Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash out of the air.

"Whoa!" Rarity shouted in exasperation. "Hey! I'm...not some...sort of common...fly swatter!"

Soon, the taffeta cape Rarity wore accidentally wrapped itself around Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, causing them to be trapped and fall right into the river.

"Fluttershy! Rainbow Dash!" I yelled in shock. Soon, both mares came popping right out of the river with Dash having an annoyed look on her face while Fluttershy had a relieved look on her face. "Oh thank god..."

"Girls!" Rarity gasped before noticing her ripped cape. "AH! My cape!"

"Look!" Rainbow pointed at the sky. "It's the Wonderbolts!"

"Wonder-what?" Jamie asked as we saw three flying pegasus wearing tight blue suits with lightning patterns on them as they flew around Spike-Zilla, who became annoyed and frustrated of their interference.

"In shorter terms, they're the air force of this world." I answered, which Jamie nodded. Soon, we saw Spike-Zilla climbing up the mountain and stuffing all the goods he stole around town into a cave before getting his hair sliced off by one of the Wonderbolts. Spike-Zilla grew angry about that before making a sly smirk on his face and grabbing the water tank.

"What's he doing?" I wondered.

"It looks like...Oh n-no..." Jamie widened his eyes in shock. "Q-Quick! C-Call them off! We need to warn before-" Unfortunately, Jamie didn't have time to finish as the three Wonderbolts charged towards Spike-Zilla, who used the water tank as a weapon as they flew in and hit on the metal too hard before he slammed it into the mountain, trapping them beneath. "I-its'....too...late..."

"Yeah, too late to finish it now." I sighed before seeing Spike-Zilla roaring loudly. "Come on, let's go save Rarity!"

"I rather if y-you put me down and..." 

"No time Jamie! Let's go!" I exclaimed as we flew over towards Spike-Zilla, much to Jamie's shock as I set up my Hacking Gun back to 'Break' and aimed it at him. "Hey Spike-zilla! Get a load of this!"

I fired multiple 'Break' shots at him, but blocked them by using his arm, much to my surprise.

"Ahh...crap-baskets..." I muttered before being grabbed and held captive by him as he roared into our faces. "Is it too late to regret doing this?"

"Y-yeah..." Jamie sighed.

"Oh, be quiet you brute!" Rarity glared at Spike-zilla, who gained its attention as she continued "You've got nothing to be proud of. You steal everypony's things, terrorize the town, and use me as a weapon against my own friends and now held one of them as hostages! Which, as horrible as it is, I can almost understand because you're a dragon and all! But this!" She rips the costume off by using her magic, revealing her fire ruby gem necklace of hers. "This is a crime against fashion!"

Soon, Spike-Zilla eyed at Rarity's necklace, making a desirable expression on his face, which we noticed.

"Uh oh." I said with widened eyes.

"Oh no! You are not getting this gemstone!" Rarity yelled. "This was given to me by my dear friend Spikey-wikey, the kindest, sweetest, most generous dragon ever! And it is too precious to me to give to a greedy old beast like you!"

"Should we tell h-her that this beast is actually S-Spike itself?" Jamie asked.

"Nah, let her keep going. I think it's working." I pointed out, seeing Spike-Zilla's eyes slowly widening, like he's starting to remember.

"Rarity! Jamie! Ren!" Huh? Mason?! Everyone, including Spike-Zilla looks down to see Mason running into the mountain with a determined look. "Hang on tight!"

"Mason! Wait!" I called, trying to stop him. 

"Alright Spike, you put them down, return all the goods back to Ponyville, or else!" Mason threatened, which made Spike-zilla sneered at him. 

"Wait...Spike?!" Rarity exclaimed before looking at Spike-Zilla with narrowed eyes, trying to get a closer look before gasping in shock. "He's the rampaging dragon?!"

"Yeah!"

"Wasn't that obvious." Jamie and I said, adding more shock to her. Soon, Spike-Zilla roared at Mason as he tried swatting his other free arm at him, but he dodged and pulled out his staff and climbed up on his arm.

"Fine! I'll snap you back to your senses!" Mason exclaimed as he jumped onto his shoulder and whacked his eyes, much to his pain.

"W-whoa! Mason! Be careful!" I exclaimed.

"Sorry!" Mason apologized as Spike-Zilla tried swatting him away by using his free arm and his tail, making Rarity go dizzy.

"I...told you...to...stop...that!" Rarity exclaimed in annoyance. Mason kept dodging until giving a side kick to his muzzle, causing him to wince.

"Let go of my friends! Go back to who you were! Remember who you are, Spike!" Mason called, but Spike-Zilla replied by roaring at him before trying to punch him into the face of the mountain before Mason dodged and tried attacking him with his staff until Spike-Zilla smirked before he breathed fire at him, but Mason used his arms to defend himself, making some burn marks on his sweater as he made an uppercut on the face.

"Ooh! That's gonna leave a mark!" I winced.

"I-I knew Mason was strong, b-but not that s-strong!" Jamie said, amazed by Mason's Ken-do skills.  

"Mason! Spike! Please stop your fighting!" Rarity pleaded, but Mason ignored her and kept dodging Spike's swatting attacks until he growled before smirking and grabbing some junk and throwing it at Mason, causing him to dodge all on the stuff until Spike slammed his fist on the ground, causing a minor earthquake and Mason losing his balance until he was grabbed by Spike as he lifted him up to Spike-zilla's face as he glared at him angrily before roaring. 

"Is that the best you got?" Mason asked before Spike-zilla began tightening his grip, causing Mason to wince in pain.

"Stop it! You need to stop!" Rarity begged as she started to cry. "Please! Don't hurt Mason!"

Spike-Zilla ignored her as he continued to make grip harder, adding more pain to Mason to him until Spike-Zilla prepared to blow fire into his face until he yelled in pain before looking down to see...

"Kodiak?!" We all exclaimed in shock, seeing Kodi biting on Spike-Zilla's right foot, causing him to yell in pain.

"Nobody touches my family!" Kodi yelled with a smile.

"Perfect timing pal!" I chuckled before forming a grin. Seeing Kodi's smile makes me smile as well, despite the situation we're in. Soon, Spike-Zilla began growling and roaring at Kodi before kicking him away as he landed on the ground and slowly started trying to get back up as Spike-Zilla lifted his foot and...no...no!

"Spike! Don't!" I begged, knowing what Spike was planning to do. Though, he didn't listen and was about to do it, causing me to let some tears out as I was about to see my best dog friend about to be squashed.

"That's enough!" Rarity yelled, gaining Spike-zilla's attention. "Spike! This isn't you! You need to focus and remember who you are! You're my Spikey-wikey! The most generous, kindest, smartest, adorable little thing a mare like me could ever met! You gave this fire ruby gem as an act of generosity and I was so thankful of you! I want my Spikey-wikey back! Please!" Rarity began crying, causing Spike-Zilla to let out a tear, liked he finally understands how Rarity felt. Soon, he began shaking a bit until he shrunk back to normal size and reverted back to being Spike.

"Spike!" We all yelled in joy and relief before realizing that we were still in the air. Before any of us could say anything, we began falling into the air and screamed.

"AHHHHH! SOMEBODY SAVE US!" Jamie screamed.

"Guys, there's something I need to tell you! I'm so sorry for everything the way I acted yesterday! I didn't mean to hurt you all!" Spike shouted.

"I-It's alright Spike, it wasn't your fault!" Mason assured with a soft grin. "Though...I think I'm gonna need to see a doctor to get my back fixed."

"And Rarity..." Spike looked at Rarity with a sad smile. "I need to tell you something! Just in case we don't make it! I've always sort of had a crush-"

Soon, we stopped falling and looked around, realizing that we were slowly making our way back to the ground.

"Huh?" I asked myself before noticing that we were in some soft cape. Wait a minute, this is Rarity's taffeta cape. right? So why is it...

"We did it! I can't believe we did it!" Oh, them. Right...Pegasus'. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash settled us down on the ground where Kodiak came charging in and started licking my face, causing me to laugh.

"I'm so glad you're okay! You had me worried dude!" Kodi said with a smile. I wiped away the dog slobber and said "Well I gotta thank you dude for getting Spike distracted, you too Mason."

"Anytime." Mason assured, breathing heavily as the others raced towards us and looked to see us alright.

"Oh thank goodness you're all alright." Kaede said in relief.

"Not Mason, he looks beat." Applejack pointed out.

"Quick! We need to get him to a hospital!" Jamie yelled.

"Hang on! I got something." Twilight stepped forward as her horn began shining and casting some aura around Mason and all his injuries were gone. He gripped his hands a bit before smiling a bit, relieved that he's okay.

"Wow...I feel so much better. Thank you Twilight." Mason smiled.

"Don't mention it Mason, your injuries were minor anyway." Twilight shrugged. 

"Thank goodness you're alright big brother!" Carrie hugged her brother tight, catching him by surprise. Soon, he returned the hug back to her as we all smiled at the scene.

"Wow...medical magic. Pretty useful..." Jamie said, taking notes about it. Of course you still keep your journal for situations like these. Hmm? I noticed Spike sitting alone on the bridge, looking around the destruction he caused thus far around Ponyville.

"Spike?" I called, gaining the others' attention as they saw how sad Spike was. "You alright bud?"

"Yeah, you looked pretty bummed out." Kodi added.

"Don't you guys get it? I caused all this mess." Spike said sadly. "I nearly killed both Kodiak and Mason! I couldn't control myself!"

"Spike, don't blame yourself." Mason assured, but Spike glared at him angrily and retorted "What's the point?! I ruined everything!"

Spike began letting out tears and began running away, much to our shock.

"Oh dear..." Fluttershy muttered in concern. 

"Spike..." I said in worried before me and Kodi began chasing after him with Rarity, Jamie, Mason, and Twilight in tow while the others stayed by and looked at each other in sympathy, feeling terrible that Spike is blaming himself for this mess. Spike...you can't blame yourself and we're gonna bring your spirits back!



Later
"Hmm...seems like that pesky dragon couldn't finish the job either." 

Up on the mountain's cliff was the mysterious dark figure from before as he put his two fingers on his forehead, feeling a bit irritated that another plan failed.

"Ugh...manipulating that dragon's heart was a mistake. I should've known that the bearer of the Element of Generosity would bring him back to the light. How pitiful....I was so close to make that little brat kill her and that human, Mason Hunter, in order to bring back the Elements' magic. Oh well...doesn't matter. Soon, my time will come for me to meet them once again."

With that, the figure turned around and began to leave before muttering "Prepare yourself Ren Loodan and co. For your time will come to meet me again...it's time to finish what we started."



Meanwhile
We all entered the Golden Oaks Library, finding Spike laying on his bed with a sad look.

"Spike." Twilight called, causing him to glance at us before glancing away from us.

"What do you guys want?" Spike asked in sadness. "I thought I told you guys to leave me alone. Haven't I ruined everything enough?"

"Spike, please listen to us." I begged with a concern look. "Look, don't blame yourself. Like we said, it wasn't your fault."

"But I said that it is! I transformed into a giant greedy monster, kidnapped you guys and Rarity, nearly killed both Kodiak and Mason! I'm a terrible friend! I shouldn't have gotten those gifts from you. If so, then none of this would've happened...."

"Spike..." Rarity looked at him with a sad look. "Listen to me...I understand that you blame yourself for this said incident, but remember. You soon started to remember your gift to me."

"Huh?" Spike asked in confusion before realizing what she was referring. "Oh right! My fire ruby gem!"

"Yes, it was the most kindest thing you've ever gave to me." Rarity said with a smile.

"It is a beauty." Mason smiled.

"And a weird shaped gem that is. I've never s-seen one before." Jamie said in amazement.

"Technically, it shaped like a heart." Kodi pointed out, which I nodded.

"Anyway...I'm absolutely proud of you." Rarity said, surprising Spike.

"Proud of me?" Spike asked incredulously.

"Yes. It was you who stopped...w-well, you, from destroying Ponyville. You are my hero, Spikey-wikey." Rarity kissed him on the left cheek, causing him to feel a little better.

"She's right Spike. You're Twilight's number #1 assistant and you'll always be. I think you deserved those birthday presents because you're our best friend." I smiled.

"It's true." Mason nodded, crossing his arms with a soft smile. "After all, a little dragon like you deserved them."

"Thanks you guys." Spike chuckled before frowning a bit at Mason and said "Listen Mason...I'm really really sorry for nearly trying to crush your body."

"It's alright Spike, I have already forgiven." 

"But...I nearly tried to kill you because...I was jealous of you." Spike admitted, much to our confusion.

"What?" Mason questioned.

"W-what do you mean S-Spike?" Jamie asked curiously.

"It's just that...I was jealous because y-you were around with Rarity." Spike sighed, making Rarity feel bad. Wait...that reaction of her...it's almost like she knows! "I...I just wanted to be cool like you. Hopefully, winning her heart and such, but when Carrie and Sweetie Belle suggested that you two go great together. I-I grew jealous and frustrated at you, but I bury those emotions away...but now they crawled back up again and when I saw Rarity kept begging me to stop hurting you...I continued to grow more angry because she seemed to care about you."

"Spike..." Mason looked at him with shocked before clearing his throat and said "Spike...I never intended to take Rarity away from you. I was protecting her as a friend. I didn't mean to make you have these ill-tempered thoughts."

"He's right." Rarity agreed with a sad look. "Truth be told Spike...I actually knew you had feelings for me." 

"What?!" Spike gasped.

"You knew all along?!" I gasped.

"B-but...how?!" Kodi questioned.

"Well it wasn't that obvious from those expressions you keep making Spike." Rarity smirked, causing Spike to blush. "I understand how you feel, though it's weird and awkward. I don't mean that because you're a dragon, but you're too young on me. I'm sixteen, you're ten. It'll be weird for us dating in that age."

"S-she does have a point." Jamie agreed.

"You're right..." Spike sighed.

"But...even so, you'll always be my Spikey-wikey, and I don't mind if you keep falling in love with me." Rarity said with a smile, kissing him on the right cheek, making him blushed in embarrassment. "And Mason?"

"Yes Rarity?" Mason asked.

"Thank you for trying me and the others, but next time....please be careful." Rarity said with a worried look. Mason nodded in understanding as he replied "Indeed."

She kissed him on the left cheek, catching him off-guard as he blushed a bit.

"That's for saving me." Rarity chuckled before slapping him on the right cheek. "And that's for nearly getting yourself killed!"

"Heh heh...awkward." I muttered, trying to hold my laughter from seeing Mason get slapped like that.

"Yeah, I deserved that." Mason sighed, rubbing his aching cheek.

"Thank you though Mason." Rarity chuckled before taking her leave.

"Well...t-that was something." Jamie muttered loudly.

"You need another cure spell on ya?" Twilight asked, feeling concern for Mason.

"Nah, it's alright. I'm good. Just a slap." Mason assured.

"Hey Mason..." Spike gained his attention with a soft smile. "I wanna thank you for trying at least getting me back to my senses. You too Kodiak."

"You're welcome." Kodi smiled.

"Anyway...What Rarity said is true, she may be too old for me, but I'll always be her Spikey-wikey." Spike grinned. "Besides, I don't mind...if you dated her."

"H-hey!" Mason exclaimed. "I'm already dating someone! T-that's just weird!"

"Oh right, you're dating Elena back home." I said, remembering that piece of information.

"Wait? Elena Ortega?! You mean the heir of the Ortega Family?!" Jamie gasped. "I never knew  that!"

"Yeah, it's a long story." Twilight assured.

"But...what if you never find a way to get back home, even with all of your memories back?" Spike asked, causing us to look at each other in worried. What if he's right? W-will we ever get back home?

"I'm...sure we'll decide on that." Mason assured, glancing away before looking at Spike with a soft smile. "But...I'll keep your word on that."

"Awesome!" Spike grinned before glaring at him and said "But if you hurt Rarity, no pony or even human alive will save you from what I'm about to do!"

"Duly noted. " Mason nodded with a soft smile.

"Awesome!" Spike nodded, happy that Mason understood. Well, that was something. Well I think it's possible that Mason might have a chance to date Rarity. I'm already dating Fluttershy, so why is it weird for him to date another him? But Spike brings a good point...what if we never go back?



Later
It was night time as everypony gotten ready for bed. I already finished taking a shower as I got on my PJ's and headed to my room, where I saw Kodiak on the bed with a sad look.

"Hey boy, what's up?" I asked, sitting on the bed next to him.

"Just...thinking about some stuff." Kodi said, glancing away. I scratched him underneath the chin, causing him to chuckle a bit. "Alright, you win...I was still thinking about you guys returning home."

"Kodiak...don't be sad." I said, smiling at him. "Remember when you asked me something like that? I told you that I'll bring you along back to our world. But...even if there's a chance that I can't you, I'll always be there...in here."

I pointed directly at his chest, gesturing about his heart.

"My heart?" Kodi asked in surprised as I nodded and replied "Well of course! You'll always be my best friend! And I'm glad you told us. Though...I'm not sure whether or not we might be able to go home."

"Maybe so, maybe not." Kodi shrugged before smiling at me. "Though, thanks for talking with me."

"Hey, that's what friends do. Like I said, we'll always be here with you. Always." I assured with a nod before getting licked in the face by Kodi, causing me to laugh. 

"Thanks pal. You're the best friend a dog could ever asked."

"And you're the best friend a human could ever asked." I added, hugging him. "Alright, let's get ready for another day tomorrow."

"You got it, best buddy." Kodi nodded as I turned off the lights and got back on my bed as we slowly began drifting to sleep. You know, he's right. Everypony will be heartbroken at seeing us go back to our world...I'm...I'm really gonna miss them if there's a chance that we got back to where we came. I love being here in Equestria and I want to see so many places around this world. But even if we leave...we'll always be there for them. Always...in their hearts.
To Be Continued
> Chapter 39 - Happy Hearth's Warming Eve & A Merry Christmas To All! Pt. 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ahh…a year has past. My first year here in Equestria. I remember arriving here in at least September and saving the world apparently from Nightmare Moon. Now I know my family and probably the others are wondering where the heck am I. Sooner or later, the weather began changing drastically and out came winter. You know, it’s funny…I’m just an average game-loving child and yet I’m in a world filled with magical talking ponies. Huh, time sure really flies, eh?

“Well…I’m sorry to tell you Ren, I’m afraid you’re too sick to come with us.”

God dang, I should’ve known. Anyway, we’re kinda going off-topic. You see, just as I woke up and headed over to the dining room/kitchen, I started to not feel so well that the others rushed over to me before I could fall down. They settled me back down on the bed as Jamie got into his winter coat that Rarity made for him some other time and went to go get Twilight and the others. Sooner or later, they arrived to where I was and took my temperature. Twilight and Fluttershy examined me for a bit until the two looked at each other and realized that I really wasn’t feeling good. I mean, my skin was pale like I got spooked or something and my nose was running mad, and my eyes had bags under them like I haven’t a winked in weeks.

“I-I’m fine.” I assured, trying to get up from the bed until Fluttershy and Kaede stopped me and settled me back down.

“No Ren, you need your rest.” Fluttershy stated.

“Yeah, doctor’s orders.” Kaede agreed.

“I-Indeed!” Jamie agreed, finishing up writing his notes down in his journal. “You’re going to have to skipped out on coming to Canterlot for that play.”

“What? No fair!” I exclaimed before letting out a heavy cough.

“Sorry Ren.” Fluttershy apologized.

“Yeah, you would’ve totally loved the play.” Rainbow shrugged with a smile.

“Speaking of which, this play of yours…” Mason turned to Twilight with a curious expression and asked “You told us once that it’s about the history of Equestria, correct?”

“Yep!” Twilight nodded with a smile. “It’s about how the three tribes: Earth Pony, Pegasus, and Unicorn got together and formed Equestria through the magic of Friendship.”

“Oh, so there were enemies back then?” Kaede asked.

“Yeah, the tribes never gotten along, but sooner or later, they learned to be friends.” Spike explained. “I’m actually quite excited to be the narrator of the play.”

"Of course you are..." Mason rolled his eyes.

"B-but you know...this sorta reminds me of a certain book I once read..." Jamie muttered aloud, causing us all to glance at him. "Back then, there was a time where humans never got along in the 1980s and were split between whites and negroes."

"What the hay are you talking about now?" Applejack questioned, surprising Jamie.

"O-oh! I really need to stop doing that!" Jamie exclaimed.

"He's talking about when there was a time where humans were split apart. The whites, which were people who thought they were above all else, and there was the blacks or negroes, who were treated unfairly." Mason explained.

"Really? Why is that?" Twilight questioned. "Did the blacks do something terrible?"

"Well no." Jamie shook his head. "You see, there has always been a feud between whites and blacks for over centuries until they made a treaty to show off the two sides to have their own equal rights. However, the whites had better technology than the blacks did, which was unfair."

"It is unfair! I mean, if those guys had the better technology than the blacks! Then it's really unfair! Those jerks!" Rainbow scoffed.

"Yeah, sounds to me it is unfair." Applejack said, angered by what our kind done back then. "Did they ever resolve it?"

"Well...yeah, but let's not talk about what they've been doing back then. It's...sorta sad and uncomfortable." Kaede said with a sad look.

"It's true. If it wasn't a man named Martin Luther King Jr., then he wouldn't have united the two and realized that it didn't matter what we are, it matters that we're human beings and deserved to be treated equally." Jamie said with a soft smile. "He even won the Nobel Peace Prize since then."

"Wow, it must've been an honor." Rarity smiled before realizing one thing. "If I ever knew what that is."

"How about we save the stories for another time?" Rainbow reminded us. "Don't we got a play to rehearse once we arrive to Canterlot?"

"Oh right, thanks for reminding us Rainbow Dash." Twilight smiled before saying "But wow, I guess our kinds really aren't that different. Each of our holidays, events, and such are quite similar to your world. How fun is that!" Twilight squealed.

"It is! We should pass notes once we get back!" Jamie said in excitement.

"Ugh...egg heads." Rainbow rolled her eyes before seeing the annoying look on Twilight's face and the angry glare from Jamie, causing her to rub her head bashfully with a sheepish smile.

“I wished I could be in the play.” Carrie said sadly. 

“Don’t worry Carrie! I know you’ll get a role while we’re in Canterlot!” Pinkie assured.

“Well of course! I think getting a part in it would totally be awesome for somepony like you.” Rainbow agreed.

“She’s right, you can take my role if ya want.” Mason smiled. “Besides, there’s something I want to get for you.”

“Really?! You’re gonna get me something for Christmas big brother?!” Carrie asked in excitement.

“Christmas?” Rarity questioned. “Do you mean Hearth’s Warming Eve?”

Hearth’s Warming Eve? Is that what you girls call it here in this world? Huh…what a weird name.

“Actually, C-Christmas is what we call it on the 25th of December back in our world.” Jamie explained. “See, it’s a holiday where everyone gets what they want and buy any gifts and wrapped them under in gift boxes underneath trees.”

“What? Why in the world would ya do something like that?” Applejack questioned.

“It’s tradition.” Mason answered before turning to Jamie and said “You sorta got it mixed up. People don’t buy the gifts, it’s Santa Claus.”

“Santa Claus? Who the hay is Santa Claus?” Rainbow asked with a raised brow.

“Santa Claus is a magical…” I let out a cough before smiling softly and continued on my explanation. “Guy that can get you anything as long as your nice.”

“Ahh, he sounds so nice.” Fluttershy said with a smile.

“I have a feeling there’s a catch.” Spike said, feeling more curious about Christmas.

“Well…like Ren said, if you’re good, you’ll get presents.” Kaede explained.

“Presents?!” Pinkie gasped as she slowly formed a huge grin and shouted “WOO-HOO!”

“Ahh! My ears!” I screeched.

“Jeez, guess Pinkie Pie’s already excited about this Christmas.” Kodi commented.

“Are you kidding?! Getting presents on some holiday from your world like this?! How can I not be this excited Kodiak?!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“Heh heh, calm down Pinkie Pie.” Kaede chuckled.

“Yep! Me, Mason, and Elena always get presents every year on Christmas because we’re always good!” Carrie smiled. “I once gotten a big teddy bear plush from Santa!”

“Really?!” Pinkie asked in excitement.

“Huh…maybe I should get on this.” Kodi suggested. “I mean, this is my first Hearth's Warming Eve and this Christmas of yours."

"Well trust me boy, you'll love it." I assured with a soft grin before grabbing a tissue box and sneezing into a tissue. "I mean, I don't mean to brag, but I get tons of gifts every year, but more importantly that I spend tons of times with my family."

"Well...not me." Kaede admitted with a sad smile. Oh right, her step-family.

"It's alright Kaede, I'm sure this year you'll have a great time at being in the play and have a fun time when we come back for Christmas and Hearth's Warming Eve." Mason smiled.

"Wow...really?" Kaede asked in amazement. "Thank you!"

"I-I don't see why this is a big deal." Jamie sighed. "I-I never believed in Santa...it's just something make belief."

I let out a gasped in shock before coughing hard as I glared at him and said "How could you say that?! Not in front of Carrie!"

"What does he mean big brother?" Carrie asked curiously.

"Don't listen to Jamie. He doesn't know what's he saying." Mason said, crossing his arms in a serious tone while glaring at Jamie. Jamie noticed his glare as he flinched in fear as he exclaimed "W-what? I was just saying...after all...I never...celebrated C-Christmas...."

"Never?!" Pinkie exclaimed in shock before grabbing Jamie by the tie and shook him like crazy. "How could not celebrate a holiday back in your world?! Does that mean you won't celebrate Hearth's Warming Eve at all?!"

"W-well..."

"Jamie...why is it that you never celebrated Christmas?" Twilight questioned in concern.

"I-I...wished not to talk about it. Please, I-I'm sorry Twilight..." Jamie sighed sadly.

"Guess it's something really troubling if it makes him not like Christmas." Kodi whispered, laying next to me.

"Yeah, guess you're right." I whispered before grabbing another tissue and sneezing into it.

"But...what could make you not like Christmas in the first place?" Kaede questioned. 

"I-I told you...I don't w-wanna talk about it..." Jamie said with a sad look. "Please...I'll let you  know another time."

"But you will celebrate Hearth's Warming Eve with us, right?" Fluttershy asked curiously.

"U-umm..."

"Jamie...it's okay, really." Twilight assured with a soft grin. "If it's something uncomfortable from your past, then we won't force you to tell us. When the time is right, you can tell us and we'll understand and help you anyway possible."

"T-thank you..." Jamie blushed, glancing away from Twilight in embarrassment. So I'm confused...is this seriously going where I think this is going?

"Yeah, now let's go! There's a play we have to go too and I'm already excited to try out this Christmas thing!" Rainbow said with a grin.

"Same here. I too want to get into this holiday." Rarity said with a soft smile. "I bet Sweetie Belle and her friends would enjoy it."

"That's awesome..." I smiled before groaning in pain. "Maybe after you guys finished with the play while I might feel better the next day or so, we can celebrate of these holidays at the same time."

"I have no arguments." Mason shrugged.

"Me too! I can't wait for it!" Carrie said in excitement.

"Same here!" Kaede agreed. Jamie went silent and glanced away nervously. Still isn't in the Christmas nor Hearth's Warming Eve spirit. I am curious to know about it, but I'm too sick to even think straight.

"Achoo! Achoo! Achoo!" I sneezed into the tissue as Kodi winced at my sneezing and commented "Oh wow, you really are sick!"

"Don't worry Ren, I know you'll feel better soon." Fluttershy assured before kissing me on the forehead, causing me to slowly grin at her. 

"Thanks Flutters..." I said before covering my mouth to let out a cough. That way, I won't get her sick as well.

"Anyway, we should get going. The train to Canterlot is gonna leave in about fifteen minutes." Applejack reminded them as she continued "We wouldn't want to miss this play ever, right?"

"Of course we wouldn't! Though the author isn't gonna show it like the way the episode went." Pinkie winked, causing everyone to look at her weirdly.

"Seriously...what-"

"Don't. Even. Bother." Mason said sternly, which Jamie nodded and went silent. 

"Well bye Ren." Fluttershy waved goodbye to me before turning to Kodiak and snuggling him and said "Take good care of Ren. I know you can do it."

"Ahh thanks Fluttershy." Kodi licked her on the cheek, much to her amusement.

"We'll be back tomorrow morning after the play." Twilight stated before she and the others began getting their winter gear on. Mason came over and put an ice pack on my head and said "There ya go, don't worry bud. You'll be alright. Just...don't get up and do something you'll regret."

"Thanks pal..." I smiled before sneezing into another tissue. "I'll see ya tomorrow or so."

"You too." Mason smiled before turning to Kodi and said "Keep an eye out for him, will ya?"

"You can leave it to me!" Kodi said, puffing his chest proudly as Mason patted him on the head before he and the others said their goodbyes to me and took their leave. You know, it's going to be lonely without anyone here...I kinda feel sad. Well to be fair, I was the only human left in this world before Mason and the others ever showed up. Besides, I have my best pal, Kodi, with me.

"Well, guess it's just you and me Ren." Kodi said, laying next to me. "Though, we really can't do anything else since you're sick."

"Yeah...tell me about it." I coughed as Kodi came over and nuzzled me before saying "But don't worry, I'm sure you'll get better. After all, rest is the best medicine."

"But I always thought laughter was the best medicine?" 

"Really? Because I'm not good with jokes." Kodi smiled sheepishly at that while I let out a chuckle and said "Well either way, thanks for staying by my side."

"Hey, think of repaying you after you and the others encouraged me not to give up on you." Kodi winked before going over and using his teeth to grab the blanket and laying with me and him in it. "Well right now, we should rest. It might make ya feel better."

"I-I suppose..." I let out another cough and said "...so."

"Well sweet dreams, Ren." Kodi yawned before curling to himself and going to sleep while I slowly began drifting to sleep. Oh man...I wished I could've been in that play. It would've been awesome to either watch from the audience to know about Equestria's history. As a matter of fact, I wished I could take part of the paly, but I have this stupid cold to deal with. If only there was a way....



Ugh...man, I feel quite...better actually. I slowly began opening my eyes and looked around...strange, where am I? How did I end up outside?

"Ooh..." I said, getting from the...snow? "Okay, this is really weird. I haven't seen this weirdness since learning Pinkie Pie's Pinkie Sense."

As soon as I touched my head, instead of feeling my soft palm, I instead of felt a hard substance and what's weird was that I felt no fingers.

Soon, I gaze upon at myself and that's when I became shocked at what happened to me.

"What the?!" I exclaimed in shock, looking to see myself standing on all four! What's going on with me?!

"Hey! What are you doing lying on the snow?!" Huh? I turned around to find Pinkie, but she was wearing something that a clown would've worn. 

"Pinkie Pie?" I asked with a raised brow. "Uhh...what are you doing wearing that? What? For some party or something?"

"Silence Looney!" She exclaimed. Uhh, what did she just called me? "Show respect for Chancellor Puddinghead!"

"Chancellor...Puddinghead?" I snickered, already forgetting about the scene. What kind of name is that? Of all the names I've heard so far since my arrival to this world, that's gotta be the world's funniest name I've ever heard! Somebody! Give her an award!

She soon thrown a snowball at my face, much to my surprise.

"This is no laughing matter! We're almost there to the meeting!" Pinkie or Chancellor Puddinghead exclaimed.

"Uhh...what meeting?" I questioned.

"She's talking about the big meeting where the three tribes meet with each other and discussed about surviving the winter." Huh? Isn't that...I turned around to see Applejack, wearing a weird costume that seems to looks familiar to Robin Hood or something. 

"Applejack?" I asked incredulous before rubbing my eyes with my 'hooves'. "Okay, am I dreaming or something? Because I'll bite, what the heck with the costumes?"

"Costumes?!" Pinkie exclaimed in anger before throwing another snowball at my face. "These aren't costumes! These are our uniforms we wear!"

"Even though they do look a tad bit ridiculous with her wearing it." Applejack whispered, only to get a snowball into the face.

"Don't forget that I have ears like a rabbit Smart Cookie!" Pinkie exclaimed before retracing what she said. "Or is it a bunny? Oh it doesn't matter, we must head over to the meeting!" She soon glared sternly at me. "And remember that you don't talk to your chancellor like this Looney!"

"Why are you calling me Looney? That's so close to my last name!" I complained. "It's Loodan! Ren Loodan!"

"Ren Loodan?" Applejack questioned with a raised brow. "Now that's a really weird name."

I gave them both an incredulous and surprised look. Are they serious right now? Have they bumped their heads real hard or something? Pinkie I understand, but Applejack? There's something weird going on here.

"We're already missing out the meeting! We need to go and now! We're almost there!" Pinkie exclaimed as she dashed off in a hurry while me and Applejack looked at each other.

"Alright, I'm already confused. First off, why am I a pony? Second off, what exactly is going on?" I asked aloud.

"You seriously don't remember? You sure you didn't get hit by a fallen tree branch or something?" Applejack asked, tapping my head before I waved it off.

"H-hey! I'm perfectly fine Applejack!" I complained. 

"Applejack? My name is Smart Cookie, Looney!" There she goes again. This can't be real. "Also, why are you questioning about being a pony? You've always been an Earth Pony."

....Wait what? "I need a mirror!" I exclaimed before noticing a pond over to my left as I rushed over and saw my reflection, and to my horror, I was a pony. An Earth Pony to be exact. 

"Holy cow!" I exclaimed in shock. "I-I'm a pony?!" But how? Am I dreaming or something?!

"Jeez, you really hit your head, didn't ya?" Applejack questioned. "You seriously don't know what we're doing nor what you are, are ya Looney?"

"A-Applejack, or Smart Cookie, whatever! Just tell me what's happening?!" I demanded.

Applejack, or I'll just start calling her Smart Cookie, sighed as she started her explanation. "Listen, we're gonna head over to the big meeting of the three tribes, just like Chancellor Puddinghead stated. We're supposed to go over and consult with them to survive the blizzard. But something tells me that we're gonna have a big fight all over again, just like always."

Wait, hold on.... "Are you saying that the Earth Ponies, Pegasi, and Unicorns aren't friends?" I questioned with a concern look.

"Course not. Not since the first ponies ever came to this land and met the other species, leading to some disagreement." Smart Cookie replied, much to my shock. The three tribes disagreeing with each other...so in other words...

"I'm in the past..." I muttered in shock. So now only am I trapped in an Earth Pony's body...but I'm also stuck in the past. I don't understand this at all. 

"What you say?" Smart Cookie asked curiously, not hearing what I was muttering.

"H-huh? Oh, i-it's nothing." I assured with a nervous grin. Okay, let's try to remember...I'm in the past, trapped in an Earth Pony's body, and it seems I've taken the identity of someone...well its' obvious what my pony name is and its Pinkie calling me 'Looney'. This is just all too crazy, which is ironic. Then again, I guess it is pretty cool to be a pony. 

"Well anyway, we should hurry before our Chancellor comes back in a temper tantrum. Trust me, she always love giving dumb lectures that barely makes sense." Smart Cookie sighed. "But I hope you say something nice about her. It always make her feel rejuvenated."

"What are you talking about?" I asked, tilting my head a bit.

"I mean, you are her motivator. You always say nice things to encourage her." Smart Cookie replied. "I mean, you are wearing the uniform that shows that you're her motivator."

"Huh?" I looked at myself, realizing that she was right. I was in some sort of costume or something. It was some sort of Men's Renaissance 3 piece doublet with Poet shirt and breeches, but in pony size. I even had pants that covered my flank. Man, it's going to be difficult walking in fours, but I'll try my best! "Oh...I see."

"Hey! What's taking so long?!" We turned to see Chancellor Puddinghead running straight towards us as she halted in front of us and glared at us angrily. "We're already late! We need to go now!"

"R-right! Sorry Chancellor Puddinghead!" Smart Cookie apologized.

"Y-yeah, same here Chancellor!" I added, bowing to her. Chancellor Puddinghead narrowed her eyes at us for a bit before saying "Alright, I'll let it slide."

I let out a sigh of relief before getting a close-up by the chancellor as she said "But I'll be watching you! I'll expect to be motivated later after the meeting!"

"Uhh...okay?" I smiled sheepishly. Well that is my specialty after all.

"Good answer!" She patted me on the head and said "Now let's go!"

She zoomed off towards a castle as I stared at it in awe. Wow, it's so gigantic!

"That was a close one." Smart Cookie sighed. "Go on Looney. I gotta stand patrol while you go to the meeting with her."

"Uhh...right." I nodded before I began heading over to the castle to prepare for this 'big meeting' Chancellor Puddinghead was keep talking about. I wonder how it went in history, I am curious to know how it would go.



No sooner as we arrived to the lone castle-like building that was in the middle of some village as we entered the place with Chancellor Puddinghead bouncing into the castle while I kept looking at the entrance, amazed by it. This is quite amazing...I think I found inspiration here. 

"Hurry up Looney!" 

"O-oh sorry!" I immediately entered the castle and entered a big room where a rounded table was in place. No sooner as I entered the place, I widened my eyes in shock upon seeing familiar ponies in this too.

"Mase? Kay? James?" I muttered in surprise. There they were, standing before their 'tribal leaders'. Rarity was wearing some fluffy purple and white dress with a shiny crown on her head, probably platinum. Kaede, and Jamie were with her, only the two humans I knew where Unicorns, and they wore cloaks. Jamie looks like his human self, what with the blue mane hairstyle with the small ahoge and blue colored tail, along with a white skin and had green eyes, but he had a blue cloak with a shooting star symbol on it. Kaede wore a light pink cloak and had red hair main and tail with her pink eyes and had a diamond shaped crest on her cloak.

Rainbow Dash wore some sort of armor like she was a gladiator-like knight in battle. Mason was with her as he wore a red armor with a lightning bolt symbol on his flank, and he had the blank mane and tail and the blue eyes along with a tanned skin color. Wow, so all my friends are a part of this. Okay, this dream is really happening, isn't it?

Soon, Rainbow slammed her hooves onto the table and yelled "Now tell us Earth Ponies! I wanna know is why are you and your kind are hogging all the food!"

"Wait what?" I asked in confusion as Chancellor Puddinghead gasped, feeling offended as she exclaimed "Us?! We're not hogging all the food, you are!"

"We beg our pardon?" Mason questioned. "Aren't you Earth Ponies known to grow crops?

"Oh, wait." Chancellor Puddinghead widened her eyes in realization before clearing her throat. "You're right. It's us. Well, it's only cause you mean old Pegasususususes are making it snow like crazy!

"Please forgive me commander." Mason said with a serious look as he continued "Me and the other pegasus' soldiers tried to get rid of those clouds, but it's no use. No matter how many times we keep destroying them, they won't go away. I think there's a work of magic among us."

"Hey Missile! I'm the commander here! Stand down and allow a real soldier to handle this conversation!" Missile? That's his pony's name? That's...quite cool. How come he gets a cool name, but I don't?

"Y-yes Commander Hurricane, ma'am. Sorry for the interruption!" Mason, or Missile, nodded before going silent. I waved at him, which he noticed as he narrowed his eyes at me before smiling softly at me. Huh, still has his distrustful cold self, but improving faster. I like it.

"Now..." Commander Hurricane turned back to us before slamming her hooves on the table again with a frustrated look as she exclaimed "For the hundredth time, it's not us! We're not making it snow! It must be the unicorns! They're doing it with their freaky magic!"

Rarity gasped in shock as she sneered at the commander and stated "How dare you! Unlike you Pegasi ruffians, we unicorns would never stoop to such a thing! H-m-ph!"

"Please calm down your majesty." Kaede assured. "I'm sure if we prove to them that we didn't do it, we could resolve this accusation."

"Nonsense Crystal! Let these ruffians accuse us! They'll pay the consequences for ever accusing us for something so...heinous!"

"That's what I fear..." Crystal sighed sadly.

"B-but umm..." Jamie looked up with a nervous expression and suggested "B-but...wouldn't it be wise to-"

"I. Said. Forget. It!" Rarity hissed, scaring Jamie. "Now's not the time Frost!"

"Y-yes! S-sorry Princess Platinum!" Jamie shrieked, hiding behind Twilight, who sighed at the princess's rudeness.

"Does...Does this normally happen?" I questioned Smart Cookie, who nodded and replied "Yeah, you get used to it."

"Well, if you non-Earths aren't gonna stop using your weirdo powers to freeze us all, then I'm just plum out of ideas!" Chancellor Puddinghead huffed.

"What a shocker. An Earth Pony with no ideas." Commander Hurricane snickered.

"Commander Hurricane, please cease with the insults!" Princess Platinum demanded.

"You're not the boss of me, your royal snootiness!" OOH! Burn!

"I beg your pardon?!" Rarity exclaimed furiously. "I am a princess! I won't be spoken that way!"

While they argued, me and the other ponies who joined with their leaders sighed in exasperation.

"Every time..." Crystal sighed. "Why can't they ever agree on anything?"

"That I wished too, Crystal." Frost nodded.

"I understand that my leader is quite great in battle, but he isn't great at negiotiation." Missile sighed. "I tried many times to convince him not to go hard on them, but he's threatening to demote me to Private."

I looked at Missile with a shocked look and exclaimed "You're kidding, right? And you just agreed with her...or him?!" It's kinda hard to tell since Dash is a mare and she seems to be playing a boy character of one of the founders of Equestria.

"I had no choice. Even if he's stubborn, I still must follow the Pegasi creed. Besides, if I get demoted, I won't get enough bits to pay for my home. I do not want my sister to worried."

"Sister?" I asked before realizing that he must be talking about Carrie, or at least her pony self. 

"Oh right, I heard that you have a little sister, right?" Crystal asked curiously.

"Yes, she was the reason why I joined the army. I needed the money for us to leave and I can't afford to do anything to start back at square one." Missile nodded.

"Well don't worry, I know that you'll do the right thing." I assured, causing him to look at me incredulous.

"Why would a mere earth pony be worried about me? Aren't we enemies?" Missile asked.

"Well yeah, just them." I pointed out.

"H-he's right..." Frost nodded sadly. "I-I don't wanna keep arguing and b-be enemies, and...I want to prove my worth."

"Your worth?" I asked.

"N-nothing! Y-you probably wouldn't bother to listen to me..." He sighed, glancing away with a sad look. Crystal came over and patted him on the back with a sympathetic look.

"Sorry for my friend. See, he's quite a powerful magician, but too scared to show it to the princess." Crystal explained.

"Well I'm sure you can do it." I assured with a grin. "I mean, I know that you can show that you're a great magician to the princess. You just need to be brave..."

"Brave..." Frost muttered, wondering about it.

"You know...for an earth pony, you're quite kind despite our leaders' arguments." Crystal stated.

"Well that's our leaders' faults. We're different from them." I said with a grin.

"For once, I agree." Missile nodded.

"Oh, thanks." I smiled before blushing a bit in embarrassment. 

"Well, I'm leaving first!" We turned to see the three leaders glaring daggers at each other. Oh Celestia, looks like I know where this argument is gonna lead.

"No, I"m first!" Chancellor Puddinghead exclaimed before the trio began arguing and taking their leave. "Come along Looney! We're taking our leave!"

"You too Commander Missile Rush!" Commander Hurricane shouted.

"Yes ma'am!" He announced before taking their leave. Ahh, Missile Rush?! That is such a frigging cool name!

"Come along Crystal and Frost, we shall take our leave from these uncouth ruffians." Princess Platinum scoffed.

"Yes your majesty." The three unicorn mages took their leave after their majesty.

"Yeah! We don't need you two non-Earths anywhere in our territory!" Chancellor Puddinghead shouted before she left the building.

"This isn't going so well..." I sighed. Oh well, this is part of the Equestria History on how Equestria came to be, right? So it's better if I gotten used to it. As I began to follow after Chancellor Puddinghead, I felt a sudden breeze. Whoa, where did that come from? It was quite chilly like in -20 degrees. I mean, it wasn't any colder when we began walking here. So what's up with that?



Meanwhile

"Ha! Can you believe those tribes?! What fools!"

"Indeed commander, indeed..." Missile sighed as he and the commander flew back to their territory as it still blew cold.

"Now...Atten-tion!" Commander Hurricane shouted, causing a familiar yellow pegasus donning an armor suit flying on top of the cloud and saluting before falling off of it and landing into the snow. Missile walked over and helped her out before seeing a familiar filly pegasus running over to him. She had hazel colored mane and tail and had a little helmet and toy sword around her waist. She also had a pink colored skin and blue eyes like Commander Missile Rush.

"Big brother! Big brother!" She called before hugging him.

"Cherry! You're supposed to be inside!" Missile said sternly.

"Sorry..." Cherry apologized, looking at her brother with a sorrowful expression. "I saw you and the commander flying back home and I wanted to see you again!"

Missile gave her a stern look before smiling softly and giving her a hug. "Thanks for your concern, sister."

"Your welcome big brother." Cherry smiled.

"Ahh...sibling love." The yellow pegasus said with a smile.

"Who cares?!" Commander Hurricane shouted before glaring at the yellow pegasus and said "Well Private Pantsy? Aren't you curious about how it went?"

"O-oh!" Private Pantsy gasped before walking over to the steps of the coliseum and asked "Commander Hurricane, sir! How did it go, sir?"

"Horribly! Those other tribe leaders are so disrespectful!" Commander Hurricane shouted.

"Really? Because no offense commander, but you acted rude as well." Missile pointed out.

"Hey! You stay out of this!" Commander Hurricane growled. "Don't they realize that we are a might tribe of warriors, and should not be crossed? We have got to break ranks with those weak foals!"

As soon as Commander Hurricane accidentally raised her hoof, she bumped it against Private Pantsy's chin, causing her to fall back into the snow and getting some onto the siblings. Luckily, Missile Rush used his wings to cover him and his sister from getting snow all over it.

"That's just as I fear..." Missile sighed.

"Are you gonna be okay, big brother?" Cherry asked. Missile nuzzled her and assured "Don't worry, I'll keep an eye out for the commander in case he does something he'll regret later.

"What was that commander?!" Commander Hurricane glared at him.

"Nothing ma'am!" Missile assured, much to the commander's joy.

"Good." Missile sighed and shook his head at the stubborn commander while wondering how the others are taking this.



Princess Platinum soon entered back into her place, shivering in fear upon returning back to her palace.

"D-Don't worry your highness, we'll get you warm!" Frost assured.

"Clover the Clever! We need you please!" Crystal called, drawing a purple unicorn in a brown cloak.

"Yes!" Clover the Clever nodded before using her magic to levitated a blanket over to them, much to their comfort.

"T-thank you." Frost smiled at her.

"Your welcome." Clover the Clever nodded with a soft smile, causing Frost to blush a bot. "So anyway, did the other pony tribes see reason as I predicted?"

"If only it was t-that simple..." Frost said with a disappointed sigh.

Princess Platinum ignored him as she said "Those other tribes are impossible! I, for one, can no longer bear to be anywhere near those lowly creatures. The unicorns are noble and majestic!"

Clover the Clever put them over to a bucket filled with hot water as they rested their feet in it as Princess Platinum continued "We will no longer consort with the likes of them!"

"But...they d-didn't seem that bad." Frost smiled, causing the princess to give him a death glare, which made him rethink that. "I'll stop t-talking."

"Good answer."

Crystal face-hooved herself and shook her head.

"Why oh why?" Crystal asked herself.



"AAAAAH!" OOF! OWW....that's really gotta hurt. I don't know how Santa does it, but this is quite challenging.

"Wouldn't it been easier to use the door, Chancellor and Looney?" I looked up to see Smart Cookie looking at us in concern and confusion.

"Hey, don't look at me, she's the one who suggested it." I said getting out of the chimney before adding "Which I should've not done and should've stopped her."

"Oh please. I am a chancellor. I was elected because I know how to think outside the box." Chancellor Puddinghead stated. "Which means..." She stick her head back into the chimney, getting smoke all over her face. "I can also think inside the chimney. Can you think inside a chimney?"

"Uh..." Me and Smart Cookie were unable to answer her question.

"I didn't think so." Chancellor Puddinghead began walking away while we had deadpan expressions. Okay, is Chanceller Puddinghead acts like a child or since this is a dream and my friends and I are portraying as the founders of Equestria, they're acting like their normal selves while playing the character. Because if I found out that the founders acted just like this, then I'm about to think that she might related to Pinkie Pie in some way.

Soon, Chancellor Puddinghead stopped on her tracks, shaking her head to get rid of all the ashes as she turned back to us with a bright smile and said "Oh my gosh! Hold on to your hooves! I am just about to be brilliant!"

"That'd be a first." Smart Cookie muttered, while I nodded in agreement.

Luckily, the chancellor didn't hear us as she stated "I have decided that the Earth Ponies are gonna go it alone!"

Alone? Does she that she won't consult with the other tribes?

"Aw, so you mean the other tribes didn't come around? Shoot..." Smart Cookie sighed. "I really thought we could get through to them if we-"

"Don't worry about them." Chancellor Puddinghead said. "We're the ones with all the food, right?"

"Actually, we're all out." Smart Cookie stated.

"Wait, we're all out?!" I exclaimed in shock, which Smart Cookie nodded. "But if we ran out of food, why didn't you tell the other tribe leaders about this?! Surely you could've talked and consult with-"

"No way Looney! Those non-Earths won't bother to listen at all!" Chancellor Puddinghead stated.

"Says you." I rolled my eyes before getting a glare from her.

"I heard that! Now I want you to motivate me or you're fired!" Chancellor Puddinghead exclaimed before whispering to me "I wouldn't fire you. Just a strict punishment since you're the only motivating Earth Pony that encourages others."

"Uhh....okay?" I shrugged before clearing my throat. "Listen Pink...I, uh, mean, Chancellor Puddinghead, I know that you and the other tribe leaders won't be friends. But you have to in order to survive the winter! Listen, if we just work together as friends, then we'll be okay. Besides, calling them non-Earths is just discriminating their kind, you know?"

"That's...the best and yet worst motivating speech I've ever heard!" You're kidding right? Well I gave it a shot. "I love about how well encouraging and brave when you said all that, but I hated the part where you said that we need to work together with the other tribe leaders! And yes, I know calling them non-Earths is discriminating, but it's not my fault those guys have the weirdo powers while we're just plain average."

Well, Applejack once told me that Earth Ponies do have powerful strength hidden inside while they're very good at farming. So I technically wouldn't say plain average...

"Perhaps Looney has a point, Chancellor." I smiled at Smart Cookie, happy and relieved to hear at least one pony who's liking this idea. "We should speak with the other tribe leaders and should apologize-"

"Forget that!" Say what right now? "We'll just have to go somewhere new where we can grow some food! And with me as our fearless leader, what could go wrong?"

As soon as she opened the door, she was immediately trampled by a huge stock of snow. Holy crap! That blizzard really is doing a number!

"Where should I start?" Smart Cookie rolled her eyes.

"Same here, Smart Cookie. Same here." I patted her on the back. Soon, Chancellor Puddinghead popped right out of the snow and said "The point is...we must find a new land!"

New land? Well...if this is how they discover Equestria, then I'll partake in it. Besides, it might be fun and a chance that we might try to resolve this issue.

"Alright, I'm in!" I said in determination, much to Smart Cookie's surprise and Chancellor Puddinghead's joy. "Besides, we might have a good try on surviving this dreadful storm!"

"I knew you would agree with it, Looney!" Chancellor Puddinghead smiled. "Now pack up, we're gonna go on a trip to make those non-Earths don't try anything funny."

With that, she walked over to get cozy as Smart Cookie turned to me with an incredulous look and said "Are you crazy?! Why would you go and agree with the chancellor with something like that?!"

"I know this looks bad, which it is, but trust me. I know we can find a way to make them all friends." I whispered to her as I continued "It's just that...they're accusing each other for using this storm to drive out their own needs. I want to figure out how to make them friends, so I won't rest until we find a way to restore this peace of theirs."

Smart Cookie let out a chuckle and smiled at me before saying "You never cease to surprise me Looney. Alright, I'm in."

"Wow, really? Just like that?" I asked her incredulous.

"Look, I'm just tired of the chancellor's stubbornness..." Which is ironic since you're stubborn too. "It's time if we try to make her and the other tribes feel like friends rather than enemies."

"My thoughts exactly." I nodded with a grin. You know, maybe this could work out. We can try getting them along, because I think they might arrive to the same land with us since they ARE the founders of Equestria. What could go wrong?

"Hey you two! I need a pillow, blanket, and some fire in this chimney, now!...Please?" Chancellor Puddinghead called.

"Yes Chancellor." We sighed before walking over and went to go help her out. I just hope that they can be friends instead of enemies sooner or later.



The Next Day
We soon began packing up the next day and went off on our search for some land, which I know it'll be Equestria, so me and Smart Cookie followed Chancellor Puddinghead since she is the boss of us. 

Although...the trip we're taking...well...

"Yes, yes. This is definitely the right direction."  Chancellor Pudding stated, stitching the map onto her face.

"It feels like we're going in circles." Smart Cookie pointed out with half-lid eyes Umm...I looked at the area we were in and realized that Smart Cookie had a point. We've been walking around the same snow spot for hours now.

"But that's impossible. Are you suggesting that I'm reading the map wrong?" Chancellor Puddinghead narrowed her eyes at us.

"Absolutely not, your chancellorness. It's just that there are holes in the map, and-"

"Of course! How else could I see where I was going?" 

"Let's just pretend we never heard that question so that we won't answer it." I said with a deadpan look.

"Or talk?" Chancellor Puddinghead ignored me as she continued "I need to be able to talk!" She moved over to a narrow cliff and kept going "I mean, how would we survive if I just suddenly shut up?"

"Heaven forbid that should happen, your chancellorship. Heh. It's just that....the map is also upside down." Smart Cookie pointed out, lifting the paper out of her face.

"Seriously?!" I exclaimed.

"I got a newsflash for the both of you, Cookie and Looney! The Earth is round. There is no up or down!" Chancellor Puddinghead exclaimed before she began taking her leave.

"You know...the weirdest part is that I understand what she means." I said, blinking in surprise.

"Y-you're right. It's such a relief to me that you're in charge of this map..." Smart Cookie said while she rolled her eyes. The chancellor stopped in front of her tracks before walking backwards and glared at us.

"Relief? You both don't need relief! If anypony needs relief around here, it's me!" Chancellor Puddinghead exclaimed angrily. "I'm a chancellor! I'm a bigshot! You're both just my, um...my, uh..."

"Secretary." Smart Cookie reminded her.

"Motivator." I added.

"Whatever. You both take the map while I enjoy some relief." Chancellor Puddinghead took the map off her face and handed it to Smart Cookie and me. 

"Yes, Chancellor Puddinghead." We nodded. Ugh, why am I having full regrets on this?

Sooner or later, we began moving off through the direction of the map. As soon as we continued our way, we've seen to be a part of a woodland forest and no winter blizzard in sight.

Soon, I felt a cool breeze, causing me to sigh in relief. Wow, the air feels great here.

“The air! The trees!” Chancellor Puddinghead exclaimed in joy as she sat on top of a tree before jumping down and landing into the mud and said “The dirt! This dirt is the dirtiest dirt in the whole dirt world!”

“And fertile, too.” Smart Cookie agreed, walking over and picking up some dirt. “Perfect for growing food.”

“In the name of the Earth Ponies, I think I’m gonna call this new place…uh…Dirtville!”

Me and Smart Cookie looked at each other in confusion before I suggested “How about ‘Earth’?”

“Earth! Congratulations to me for thinking of it!” Chancellor Puddinghead grinned happily while I shook my head in amusement. Of course you would think of something like that.

“We found our new home!” Huh? What is it just me or did I just hear multiple voices that shouted the same thing the chancellor just said. We soon turned around, only to see the Pegasi and unicorn tribes were in the same place as we were. 

“Hey, I planted my flag first!” Commander Hurricane exclaimed.

“Did not!” Princess Platinum retorted.

“Did too!”

“I planted mine earlier than first!” Chancellor Puddinghead argued.

“All of you riffraff are trespassing in Unicornia!” Princess Platinum yelled.

“The name is Pegasopolis!” Commander Hurricane growled.

“Earth!” Chancellor Puddinghead exclaimed as the three glared at each other and started arguing. Me and Smart Cookie sighed and walked out of the way of their argument as the others who were with their leaders decided the same thing as well.

“Oh hey guys, what’s up?” I asked with a grin before noticing three more ponies joined in. It was Twilight, who was donning a brown cloak, Fluttershy wearing a suit of armor and a pony that looks exactly like Carrie due to her cute little face, hazel-like color mane and tail and had a pink color skin. 

“Nothing much, except our leader being arrogant as always.” Crystal sighed in exasperation.

“And mine just being plain stubborn.” Missile sighed.

“But they will get along, right big brother?” The little filly asked curiously. Missile sighed  and answered “I highly doubt that.”

“Y-yes…Princess Platinum was always known f-for being b-bossy…but I-I have to obey her.” Frost sighed. Soon, Twilight walked over and patted him on the back and stated “Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll show her that you are a great magician.”

“T-thank you Clover.” Frost softly smiled and blushed.

“So anyway, who are you three?” I asked curiously.

“Oh, I-I’m Private Pantsy. Commander’s Hurricane trustworthy Private.” She introduced herself in a nervous and shy way. Oh, so Private Pantsy. A little funny, but quite cool…in my opinion. Though, she looks exactly like Fluttershy, and you know...she looks cute in a suit.

“I am Clover The Clever. One of Princess Platinum’s mages.” Clover The Clever? Why do I have the feeling that last part of her name is a talent of hers?

“And I’m Cherry Blossom, and I hope one day I’ll be part of the Pegasi Army like my brother so I can help him out!” So that’s Carrie’s pony name. Hmm, almost similar to her first name. “Wow, so you’re an Earth Pony! You don’t like anything Commander Hurricane described.”

“Let me guess…we’re embarrassment due not having wings?” I guessed, much to Cherry’s surprise.

“Yeah, how did you know?” She asked curiously.

“Lucky guess.” I shrugged.

“Well either way, I’m glad we’re getting along unlike our leaders.” Smart Cookie stated.

“Ain’t that the truth?” Crystal agreed, rolling her eyes at her majesty.

“D-do you think we should s-stop them?” Frost asked curiously.

“Yes because this argument isn’t going anywhere.” Missile said in annoyance upon seeing the three leaders fighting over again.

“That I agree.” Clover The Clever nodded before we all walked over and attempted to calm our leaders down.

“I say we fight for the land. May the best pony win!” Commander Hurricane exclaimed.

“Alright, that’s enough commander!” Missile said, narrowing his eyes angrily at his commander. His sister hid behind his leg as he continued “We simply can’t go into war with them. It’s best if we stop now and simply call a truce.”

“Nobody asked you! Now stop or else I’ll demote you to private!” Commander Hurricane threatened.

“But…we need to talk this t-through.” Frost offered.

“That’s repulsive. I have no offer to talk to these uncouth ruffians, so sit down Frost!” Princess Platinum scoffed, causing Frost to wince in pain.

“B-but…I still think that maybe…”

“You dare disobey the princess?!” Princess Platinum exclaimed, scaring Frost.

“N-no ma’am…But I still think-”

“Enough!” Princess Platinum shouted, frightening Frost. “Clover The Clever? Sapphire Crystal? Send this traitor to the dungeons!”

Seriously? Not only about the princess being such a jerk, but those names! God, why did they get the awesome names while I have the weird goofy one that sounds similar to my last name?

“What dungeon?” Crystal asked before sighing in annoyance of her leader as Clover The Clever spoke “Look, perhaps if we all calmed down…”

“I agree. Let’s all calm down.” Smart Cookie agreed.

“I vote for calm.” Private Pantsy added.

“I’ll have you court-martialed for insubordination, Private!” Commander Hurricane exclaimed, frightening the private and causing me to narrow my eyes in anger at her. “We settle this on the battlefield!”

“Alright, that’s enough!” I shouted, gaining everypony’s attention. “Now listen! This has gone too far and we need to stop this endless fighting!”

“How dare you! A mere Earth Pony tell us what to do?!” Princess Platinum scoffed.

“Yeah! I’m the leader here Looney!” Chancellor Puddinghead argued, pointing her hoof at my chest. “You’re supposed to be my motivator! You’re supposed to motivate me!”

“I know that, but even if I do, you’re just gonna be motivated to argue with them again!” I retorted. “Look guys, I mean we’re all different.”

“Of course we are, they don’t have wings!” 

“Could you like be quiet right now, I’m trying to give out a speech.” I said, glaring at a certain commander.

“I’m just saying.” She shrugged.

“Yeah, shut up.” I said before clearing my throat. “But it doesn’t matter what we are. We should be friends rather than enemies.”

“He’s right.” Missile nodded. “Instead of fighting over the land, we should split the land in three for us to share.”

“T-that’s a great idea.” Frost nodded with a smile. “W-we should share the l-land.”

“Yes, you’re absolutely right.” Chancellor Puddinghead agreed, much to our joy. Well that was easier than I thought. “If they would never try to bring that blizzard yesterday!”

I face-hooved myself, realizing that she was too stubborn to even listen.

“I second it! No way I would work for these nut jobs!” Commander Hurricane exclaimed.

“That’s it commander! I have had enough of your complaints! You need to let this go!” Missile exclaimed angrily.

“Is that so eh? Well then, I’m demoting you to private for that backtalk!” Commander Hurricane said, shocking Missile and Cherry as she stepped forward and exclaimed “No! You can’t do that!”

“Cherry…it’s alright.” Missile assured before glaring at his commander. “Besides, I rather take it since my arrogant and stubborn commander refuses to do obey. I rather take their side and here.” I couldn’t help but smile at Mason’s ponysona, glad to see he’s taking our side.

“E-everyone…please calm down and-”

“I do not want to hear it, you traitor!” Princess Platinum exclaimed, glaring at Frost. “I announced you that you no longer serve me anymore!”

“B-b-b-but…!”

“But your majesty, give him another chance!” Clover the Clever pleaded.

“Indeed, this is no fair!” Crystal exclaimed. 

“Sorry, but my decision has been made. Besides, he’ll mess up like he always had.” Princess Platinum scoffed, causing Frost to be depressed.

“…Alright…” Frost muttered with a sad look. “I-I’ll stop then…”

Crystal and Clover the Clever looked at him in shock before the former glared at the princess and said “Fine then…if he’s not going to serve you anymore! So will I!”

“What?! Surely you missed be jesting!” Princess Platinum said, looking at the mare with shocked.

“Sorry, but my decision is final!” Crystal stated, crystal clear. Ha…sorry, it was worth it.

“And I’m assigning you a punishment mister!” Chancellor Puddinghead pointed her hoof at me as she exclaimed “You better know how to clean a chimney! It’s where I must always think inside of the chimney, after all!”

“I…have never heard that expression.” I said in a deadpan expression. Oh boy…can this day get any worse?

“H-hey big brother, is it just me or is it getting colder?” We turned to see Cherry shivering as it started…to snow? Huh? We looked over to see it getting worse than before. 
“What the?” I wondered.

“W-why is this happening? Why is there a blizzard all of a sudden?” Frost asked in surprise.

“Don’t know, but its best if we hide somewhere to warm up.” Clover the Clever suggested.

“Agreed.” Missile nodded before grabbing his sister and using his wing to keep her warm.

"We need to find cover!" Crystal shouted. Suddenly, we heard a loud roar, causing us to widened our eyes in shock.

"That roar!" Frost exclaimed. "Everypony, we need to get out of here right now!" 

"Quick! Find shelter!" Commander Hurricane yelled as we began running or flying in a Pegasus's case as we began looking for shelter. What was that roar anyway? It didn't like anything I've ever heard. Whatever, hopefully we'll find shelter sooner or later!



Well...I call this situation awkward. The good news is that we finally found a cave to call shelter until the storm cools off. Bad news...we needed to share it with the others.

Princess Platinum then began feeling uncomfortable with the Pegasi in her sight as she said "Please, Commander Hothead."

"It's Commander Hurricane." She corrected her.

"Please, commander, could you just stand back and give me my royal space?" Princess Platinum demanded.

"Oh...you mean like this, your highness?!" Rainbow stepped a hoof in front of her, catching her by surprise while we all looked at the scene with worried and concern.

"Oh no..." I muttered.

"Here we go again..." Smart Cookie shook her head.

"Umm...your majesty?" Frost called, but the two ignored him.

"Indeed not!" Princess Platinum exclaimed before pointing her hoof on the ground. "You  see this invisible line?"

"Umm...no?" Frost answered, only to receive a glare by her.

"Privates?" Commander Hurricane turned to her privates as she demanded "Outline our territory for everypony to see!"

"Yeah, no." Missile stated, much to the commander's fury. Private Pantsy realized that this might turned ugly as she did what her commander said as she dragged her hoof across their side of the cave slowly. Annoyed by the slow outlining, Commander Hurricane grabbed the private by her waist and dragged her along with her hoof.

"See this real, non-invisible line? No unicorns or Earth ponies are allowed to cross it! This is the sovereign territory of Pegasopolis!" Commander Hurricane exclaimed before dropping her to the ground before she turned and glared daggers at Missile and said "And no traitors!"

"Whatever." Missile replied.

"Umm...but I think they're friendly." Cherry said, only to receive a glare from Commander Hurricane.

"Sorry kiddo, but they're not friendly." Commander Hurricane replied.

While they were distracted, I walked over to help Private Pantsy help and she felt happy that I helped her up. "There ya go. You okay?"

"Oh I am. Thank you but why would you help me?" She asked curiously.

"Hey, that's what friends do." I chuckled, causing her to blush at me until I was grabbed by the tail and dragged by Chancellor Puddinghead as she exclaimed "No making love at the enemy you lovey-dovey pony!"

"Oh..." I sighed in disappointment.

"Clover the Clever?" Princess Platinum called.

"Uh...Smart Cookie!" Chancellor Puddinghead yelled.

"I know, I know." Smart Cookie rolled her eyes as she and Clover the Clever began making marks around the lines.

"You cannot be serious." Missile said in a deadpan expression, looking over at the already marked lines.

"Technically, they are." I sighed, getting up from the floor.

"But it's no fair. Why can't they ever listen to us?" Crystal exclaimed.

"They're our leaders, i-it's their decision..." Frost said sadly. "But it doesn't matter...I'm no longer serving Princess Platinum anymore..."

I looked at Frost with a sad look, feeling heartbroken that he's giving up that easily. I then made a determined look and said "Don't cry Frost. I know you're powerful enough to prove that you aren't useless."

"B-but...I am." Frost stated. "And I'll always be useless..."

"You say that, but have you already tried it?" I asked curiously, only for Frost to look at me with realization. I soon formed a grin and continued "That's right. If you believe in yourself and try to be brave, you'll be good and show your highness that you aren't useless."

Frost softly smiled at me happily as we heard a loud yell from the commander.

"What are you doing?!" We turned to see Commander Hurricane glaring angrily at the private as she exclaimed "Don't go around the rock, go over it! I'm not giving up an inch of territory to the enemy!"

"That rock is cleary of the Unicornia side of the cave, and it belongs to us!" Princess Platinum stated sternly before whispering something to Twilight. "Who knows? There could be jewels inside?"

I sweat-dropped and blankly stare at her. She wants that rock for jewels? Are you kidding me?

Commander Hurricane let out a scoff before lifting the rock over to her side. "I claim this rock for Pegasopolis!"

"You're kidding...right?" Crystal questioned with a raised brow.

"Unhand that rock this instant, you scoundrel!" Princess Platinum demanded.

"But...it's just a rock." Cherry pointed out. Missile sighed and turned to his sister and said "Technically, our leaders will find anything to argue about sister."

While the two leaders were glaring at each other, they noticed Chancellor Puddinghead taking the rock for herself as she said "Oh, look, you found my rock. I've been looking for it everywhere."

"Since when?!" I asked incredulous. The chancellor ignored me as she walked over and put the rock over to the side.

"H-hey! You invaded our territory!" Commander Hurricane exclaimed.

"Finders keepers, losers weepers!" Chancellor Puddinghead stated.

"Unbelievable..." Missile face-hooved himself at this.

Commander Hurricane growled angrily at her as she exclaimed "That's the last straw!"

She soon began chasing after the chancellor for a rock. A simply plain old rock! 

"Give me my rock!" Princess Platinum demanded as they began chasing each other for it, crossing each of their marked lines. We all walked out of our 'territory' to avoid our leaders confrontation.

"This is seriously starting to bug me." I sighed. "If only they would listen to us."

"We could try, but they'll just ignore us as always." Smart Cookie sighed.

"Exactly my point." 

"But you know, at least we don't argue for stupid things like this." Clover the Clever pointed out, causing us all to smile happily at each other. 

"You know what Clover? You're right." I smiled happily.

"Agreed." Missile nodded until suddenly we began feeling a heavy breeze enter the cave, causing us all to shiver in fear. We all looked up to see a snowstorm inside of the cave, above us all. What?! Okay, how is that possible?! Something tells me that this isn't a normal snowstorm.

"Ah!" Crystal gasped as she pointed and shouted "Look, everypony! The entrance!"

Soon, the entrance to the cave began freezing over the place, ice solid. Oh no....we're trapped!

"Great! Now there's no way out! We're trapped!" Commander Hurricane exclaimed.

"You two deserve this horrible fate! You've done nothing but argue and fight with each other!" Princess Platinum argued.

"You've been fighting too, your highness!" The commander retorted.

"Yeah! Worse! I haven't been fighting nearly as much as you!" Chancellor Puddinghead added, causing some of us to give her deadpanned looks. I highly doubt that since we've seen it with our own eyes.

Soon, the ice began slowly increasing as we all slowly back away from the approaching ice. Cherry hovered to her brother's side as she shivered in fear and said "M-Missile...I'm scared!"

"Hang on tight sister! I'll protect you!" Missile assured, holding onto his sister tight as the ice began circling arond us.

"How ridiculous! I don't deserve to die!" Princess Platinum exclaimed before glaring at the two tribe leaders. "These two deserved too!"

"Oh really?" Commander Hurricane gave her an angry look. "Well news flash for you! We're all gonna die! This is because you wimpy unicorns know you'd never win! Earth ponies are numbskulls!"

"Pegasi are brutes!"

"Unicorns are snobs!" Chancellor Puddinghead yelled. Soon, the ice began descending around the leaders and before you know it, they were frozen stiff, much to our shock.

"P-Princess!" Frost exclaimed as the ice began moving towards us.

"I-I don't understand, why is this happening?!" Smart Cookie demanded. As if her questioned was answered, we heard a loud roar once again. The same one from before this blizzard. We all looked up to see the apparent blizzard and saw something through it.

"What? Those things...!" Frost gasped before he, Crystal, and Clover looked at each other in shock, like they know what it is. 

"What? What is it?" I asked curiously.

"They must be...Windigos!" Clover the Clever deduced.

"Windigos?" We all questioned.

Crystal stepped up with a serious look and explained "Our mentor, Star Swirl The Bearded taught us about them. They're winter spirits that feed off fighting and hatred. The more hate the spirit feels, the colder things become!"

"Then...this is our fault." Smart Cookie said with a sad look. "We three tribes...we brought this blizzard to our home by fighting and not trusting each other. Now it's destroying this land, too."

"Our homes were destroyed not because of each other, but from our hatred that made the Windigos create this blizzard." Missile stated. 

"All because our kind hates each other..." Frost sighed sadly. 

"I don't hate any of your kinds." I said bluntly, surprising everypony. "I mean, you guys are all cool. Sure you guys have awesome powers, but I don't mind. What matters is that maybe we're different, but we have one thing in common: We're ponies. We're equal, and dependent. Instead of arguing and fighting against each other, we should work together...as a team."

"Maybe he's right. We've been enemies for so long that I don't know why we bother to fight. We should be friends." Private Pantsy agreed, causing me to grin and said "Why thanks Private Pantsy."

She smiled and blushed a bit before replying "Y-you're welcome...Looney."

"Y-yeah, yeah." Frost smiled. "I mean, take a look at us. We weren't arguing the whole time. Everything they told us about our kind...is wrong."

"Yeah." Crystal nodded. "I don't hate any of you. I just hate my leader. She's so mean and demanding and doesn't do anything to help out our kingdom."

"And my commander? He's so short-tempered and arrogant that he once demoted a corporal to private all because he messed up once in his training." Missile chuckled.

"Mm-hmm. I actually think the commander is a meanie." Cherry agreed.

"Well I hate Commander Hurricane a lot more than I hate you guys." Private Pantsy added, causing us all to giggle. "Actually, I don't really hate her, I just really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really dislike her."

Wow...that's a lot of really's there.

"Well I don't hate you guys either." Smart Cookie smiled.

Soon, I began to hear some sort of whiny as we looked up to see the Windigos acting strange all of a sudden. Suddenly, the ice began descending towards us as we hurdle against each other. So this is it...If I had my Hacking Gun with me, I would probably take care of those Windigos and save our leaders and such...but right now, I don't have it. So in other words...we're in deep trouble.

"You know what? Looney is right. No matter what our differences, we're all ponies." Everypony, including me, gave out a tight hug and sighed happily. I was then closed in front of the Fluttershy look-alike as I smiled softly and blushed a bit. Sooner or later, our bodies began to freeze and sooner or later...I stopped moving.

So this is what it feels like to be frozen, eh? Well...whether if this is a dream or not...I still think we're all gonna die sooner or later.

CRACK!

Huh? What the?

Suddenly, a bright flash appeared around where we stand as it burst right out of our icy bodies as we all looked up to see a bright fiery flash coming out of Frost's horn.

"Whoa..." I muttered in awe. The fire began driving the WIndigos crazy as they began disappearing one by one.

"What was that?" Private Pantsy asked. Soon, we saw a bright glow flowing over at where we were.

"I didn't know unicorns could do that." Cherry said in amazement.

"I-I didn't do it! I swear!" Frost said in worried. Soon, the magic fire began getting out of Frost's horn and rose into the air before forming into a heart. 

"It wasn't just me, Crystal, and you, Frost." Clover said with a smile. "It came from all of us, joined together, in friendship."

"Y-you think so?" Frost questioned.

"Yeah, that's what I believe." Clover smiled before hugging Frost, causing him to blush madly as I winked at him and whispered "Told ya!"

Frost smiled back at me as we all formed around the fire to get ourselves nice roam and toasty. Sooner or later, we all began talking and singing songs, which were similar to Christmas carols. Eventually, the warmth of the fire began melting the ice, not only melting our only exit, but our leaders as well.

"W-what the? What just happened?" Chancellor Puddinghead asked.

"Privates!" Commander Hurricane called. "W-was that you that melted us free?"

"No Commander Hurricane, sir! It wasn't us!" Missile exclaimed before turning back to us with a smile. "It was all of us."

"All of you?" Princess Platinum asked.

"Yes." I stated. "Listen, I'm sure you don't remember but a bunch of Windigos came and tried to freeze us all to death all because of our arguing and fighting. It's time if we stop and try to friends." I smiled happily before saying "Come on, give it a try at least."

The three leaders looked at each other with angry glares before softening them with smiles.

"I guess you're right. We may have been acting like little fillies." Everyone glared at the unicorn princess, causing her to rethink at what she said. "O-okay! We all acted like fillies, but now..."

"It's time if we end this." Commander Hurricane finished with a sad look before turning to Missile Rush and his little sister. "And I'm sorry if I went hard on ya, Private. I-I mean, Commander Missile! I'm promoting you back to Commander!"

"Why thank you, Commander sir!" Missile smiled.

"And I'm sorry I went so harsh on you Frost." Princess Platinum apologized at the blue stallion as she continued "For now on, I'll try to be nice. By the way, you are back on being one of my trusts' mages."

Frost became shocked to hear before seeing the smiles on both Clover and Crystal's faces as he smiled at the unicorn princess and said "O-oh! Thank you your highness! I promise that I'll do my best to show how great and powerful I am!"

Great and powerful? Where have I heard those words before?

"And you know what Looney? You're absolutely right!" Chancellor Puddinghead exclaimed before hugging me tight. "I'm promoting you as official Motivator speaker of Earth...or whatever we call it now since we're not enemies anymore!"

"Uhh...thanks?" I said with a nervous grin. Official Motivator speaker? Is that even a thing?

"Hey everypony! Look!" Cherry pointed out, seeing the entrance thawing out. We all exited out and saw the beautiful blue skies and the snow starting to melt. Looks like those Windigoes are gone for good. 

"Wow..." Everypony muttered in amazement.

"This land is so majestic." Crystal stated.

"And beautiful." Missile added.

"You know, we all should pick a name of our new home, you guys. What do you wanna call it?" Smart Cookie asked.

"Well it's not obviously Pegasopolis." Commander Hurricane shrugged.

"Neither is Unicornia."

"And not Earth nor Dirtville." Some of the ponies gave her weird looks on that last part before I muttered "Equestria."

"Huh? What was that?" Clover asked curiously.

"Why not Equestria?" I suggested with a smile. "The name will always mean for the magic of friendship and for the peace between Earth ponies, unicorns, and pegasi."

"Equestria...I like it!" Chancellor Puddinghead smirked. "It's got a good ring in it!"

Do ponies say that in this time of era?

"I agree!" Princess Platinum nodded with a smile.

"Here, here!" Commander Hurricane nodded.

"It isn't half bad." Missile stated with a soft grin.

"I think it's a nice name." Private Pantsy agreed with a smile. After we agree with the name, I worked on the flag, which the others were impressed by my artistic skills. Though, it was kinda hard when you have hooves instead of hands, but nonetheless, I finally finished with the new Equestria flag, which was two ponies (Celestia and Luna) circling around the sun and the moon. We all smiled happily at the work as Missile and Private Pantsy planted it on the ground, marking the land and naming it...Equestria. 

You know, for a dream. I'm quite impressed so far. This was an awesome dream! I mean, I'm taking part of the founding of Equestria! I can't wait to let the others know about this! But there's one problem...how am I gonna wake up from something like this?

Give...

Huh? I looked around while everypony else were talking to each other, not paying attention to me at all. I walked around the green fields, searching for that voice.

Give...in...

Huh? Who's keep saying that? I looked around before noticing I felt the atmosphere...weird. It's like something is trying to push me away.

Give in....to....despair...

I went pale and felt fear crawling into me....w-who keeps saying that?

Give in to despair...give in to despair....

The voice began echoing in my head over and over again as I looked around in fear began before seeing something behind. It was my own shadow before it began taking form and brought forth someone....wearing a mask.

GIVE IN TO DESPAIR!



"AHHHH!" I got up, my expression turning pale. Oh man...oh man. That was a terrifying dream.

"W-what?" I looked down to see Kodiak letting out a yawn before turning to me and asked "Ren...what's going on?"

"Kodiak!" I immediately hugged him tight, much to his surprise.

"What? Did I miss something?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Kodi! I had the most craziest dream ever! I was transformed into a pony and somehow dreamed about the founding of Equestria, got into many arguments with ponies, and somehow Mason, Kaede, Jamie, and Carrie were ponies with different and yet casual and cool names, and Twilight, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack were wearing weird outfits and-"

"Whoa whoa! Slow down! I can't keep up, Ren!" Kodi exclaimed. I smiled sheepishly and sighed in relief before checking my body. Well my arms looks okay. So in other words, I'm back being human.

"So what happened?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Well..."

"Ren!" Huh? We turned to see my room door opening, revealing everypony!

"Oh, hey guys!" I waved as Fluttershy flew over and kissed me on the cheek, causing me to smile. "How was the play?"

"It went wonderful!" Twilight answered with a bright smile. "Princess Celestia added roles for Mason, Jamie, Kaede, and Carrie. She was planning on doing one for you until we told her about your illness and how disappointed you were when you couldn't go there."

"Sorry if you didn't make it, Rennie." Pinkie apologized with a sad smile.

"Nah, it's okay." I assured. "I mean, you guys might not believe it...but I had an awesome dream about it."

"What? You dreamed about saving Christmas or something?" Rainbow snorted.

"Rainbow, please." Mason rolled his eyes.

"No, it was about the founding of Equestria! You guys were all in it!" I exclaimed, much to the other's surprise.

"Whoa, really?!" Spike asked, replacing his shock with excitement. I rubbed my head in embarrassment and replied "No...I didn't see you in any part of my dream."

"Ahh..." Spike whined.

"T-that's crazy!" Jamie exclaimed. "There's no way you would've dreamed something like that! How could that be possible?!"

"Maybe Princess Luna gave him that dream? You know, maybe Princess Celestia asked her sister to give him that dream to make up for not being there?" Carrie suggested, which surprised everypony.

"You know...maybe so." Rarity smiled.

"Seems so." Mason ruffled his sister's hair a bit, causing her to giggle.

"Hey Ren, your fever..." Kaede looked over and touched my forehead, feeling no heat. "Looks like it's gone."

"Oh really?" I asked in surprise before getting back up, not feeling the urge to fall down again. "Huh...guess sleeping really is the best medicine."

"I thought it was laughter?" Spike asked.

"Really?! Laughter is the best cure?!" Pinkie gasped. "How did I not think of that?!"

"N-no Pinkie, you see..." I gave Jamie a shake of my head, gesturing that I stop. He sighed and muttered "N-never mind..."

"Well anyway, we've been pretty busy buying a bunch of gifts after the play. We'll show ya." Mason said, leading us out of my room and into the living room as I let out a gasped and saw the place. The entire living room was filled with Christmas decorations, much to our joy.

"Oh...my..."

"Celestia!" Kodi gasped before running over and felt amazed by it. "It looks awesome! Where did you guys get this?"

"Mason bought it over at the store using Ren's bits." Applejack explained, much to my surprise as I turned to him and glared at him.

I saw that he made a soft grin through his scarf as he glanced away innocently. Ooh, you are so gonna pay for this.

"Mason explained everything about what Christmas was like, along with Carrie and Kaede." Fluttershy stated. "It was such an beautiful holiday where everypony and their families get together in the season of giving."

"Y-yeah....it sounds great..." Jamie muttered in a bitter tone. Hm? Something wrong with him?

"Who cares?! We need to spread the Christmas joy!" Pinkie exclaimed before taking out her party cannon out of her mane and started blasting around the place, throwing out a big pine tree right at the corner of the living room, with adding decorations on it. Along with a star.

"H-how?!" Jamie exclaimed.

"She's Pinkie Pie, that's what!" Carrie answered with an excited grin.

"We couldn't find a tree, so we came empty-handed." Kaede chuckled nervously. "Well except for all the party decorations we bought from the store."

"You know, you could've asked me to give you the decorations!" Pinkie reminded us, jumping in front of her. "That's the season of giving, right?"

"R-right!" Kaede nodded.

"So where do we get the presents? Because tomorrow is gonna be Hearth's Warming Eve!" Rainbow said, getting excited for it. 

"We have to wait till Christmas morning." I answered with a grin. "Which I guess that also marks Hearth's Warming Day...or just Christmas day!"

"Ahh man!" Rainbow pouted.

"Cheer up Rainbow Dash, it'll be two more days till we get our gifts." Applejack assured, rolling her eyes playfully at her blue pegasus friend.

"I still don't see the point of C-Christmas...it's just a holiday of getting gifts, right?" Jamie questioned, causing Pinkie to gasp loudly and grabbing him by the tie and exclaimed "How could you say that?! Christmas and Hearth's Warming Eve is the best time of the year!"

"I-I know t-that!" Jamie replied, feeling afraid of her. "But...I just never liked Christmas."

"You mention that before, why is that?" Rarity questioned, causing him to glance away sadly. Me and Kodiak looked at each other, seeing how depress he was acting. Poor Jamie...he looks really sad. It must be because of his father, right? Maybe he never celebrated Christmas due to his father not being around with him and the rest of his family at all?

"Hey Jamie..." I called, gaining his and everypony's attention. "If ya want, we can show ya the true feeling of Christmas!"

"W-what?" Jamie asked in surprise.

"He's right. It might be a fun experience for not just us, but for everypony in Ponyville." Twilight offered.

"Yeah! Yeah!" Pinkie nodded excitedly. "I can't wait for the Cakes and everypony else to get into the Christmas feeling!"

"Don't forget the Hearth's Warming Eve feeling." Kodi added. "This is gonna be great! It's going to be my first Hearth's Warming Eve and Christmas!"

"I know Kodiak, I know..." I nodded with a grin.

"And I can't wait either..." Fluttershy added, giving me a hug. I rolled my eyes with a grin before hugging her back, causing everypony to slyly smiled at us.

"You know, you two were practically made for each other." Spike laughed.

"My thoughts exactly, Spike." Mason smiled before noticing something above us. "Speaking of which..."

Me and Fluttershy looked over and saw a little green leaf on top of the ceiling. Wait...is that...

"Ah, a mistletoe!" Fluttershy smiled.

"You know what that means love-bergs?" Applejack grinned slyly.

"What? What does it mean?" I asked with a raised brow.

"It means you both kissed each other!" Kaede answered with a smile. Me and Fluttershy looked at each other before softly smiling at each other and putting our lips together, kissing each other. Everyone, except Jamie and Mason, let out an 'Ahh' while Spike let out a 'bleh' sound. Well, that's gotta be a new kiss I'll get hang of. Haven't kissed her on the lips since when she was affected by Discord's magic. 

"Well it seems like it's going to a great start." Twilight chuckled before turning to Jamie and asked "Right Jamie?"

"H-huh? Oh...y-yeah." Jamie slowly nodded, not bothering to look at the scene. Mason glances at him with a raised brow, probably wondering why's he acting like this. I wonder that too...Jamie, why don't you like Christmas nor Hearth's Warming Eve at all?



Meanwhile
"Well well well...enjoying the holidays?" The mysterious masked figure floats over in the air, looking down at the home-ship. 

"Hmm...how ridiculous. What's the point of celebrating these atrocities? If this holiday are supposed to make everypony together, why doesn't Jamie Watson understand the true meaning of the holiday? No...not only him...those in Equestria who don't get the true meaning of this pointless holiday. If it's supposed to be get everypony together, then everypony in this pointless world supposed to be together and live happily ever after....another flaw in this holiday."

The masked figure then flew away with a narrow eye as his whole body began surrounding in a dark aura before looking back at Ponyville.

"But still...why did he have that dream upon the founding of this world after the last one was gone? Could it be the power of the elements in his heart that made him have those dreams? Could they be telling him a hidden clue in that dream? Maybe the location....of course. Hmhmhmhmhm...clever....Soon, I will retain its power once I found the remaining fragments..."

With that, he disappeared in a flash of the darkness, leaving nothing behind.



Meanwhile, back at Canterlot Castle

"AH!" Princess Luna woke up in a gasp before wiping away a sweat. "What was that? How did he get that dream?"

"Sister...is there a problem?" Luna turned around to see her sister coming inside with a concerned expression.

"Indeed it is, sister." Luna nodded before getting out of bed. "We were exploring the world of dreams until we thou came over to sir Ren Loodan's dreams to see what he was up to and hopefully unlock one of his sealed memories. But once we entered, we felt a great darkness lurking around his dreams."

"A great darkness?" Celestia questioned.

"Yes, we didn't identify it. It was something we have thou ever encountered. we felt something from it. It was like a combination of every negative emotion, dear sister." Luna stated. "Pain, suffering, sad, greed, anger, and despair."

"I see...was Ren okay?" Celestia asked.

"He is. He just woke up now. Though..." Luna looked down with a thoughtful look on her face, which Celestia noticed.

"Though what?"

"I felt a great power hidden inside of Ren's heart." Celestia became surprised to hear that as she asked "A...power? What sort of power?"

"We are uncertain, but we know it's a similar power to the Elements of Harmony. The same power that relinquish us from thou darkness."

"I see...interesting." Celestia rubbed her chin in thought. "This is something I need to look at."

"And one more thing...We saw his dream, and for some reason, he was dreaming about the founding of Equestria. Which is quite weird since he never even witness thou play tonight." Luna stated, which confused Celestia.

"It is strange...could this be from the power he's hidden in his heart? How strange..."

"Also...the darkness we spoke of...it was the same feeling we transformed into...you know." Celestia widened her eyes in shock as Luna looked away sadly. "It was the same sensation we...felt jealous of your work and getting the praise. That darkness was the same thing that turned thou into Nightmare Moon!"

"Luna..." Celestia came over and hugged her younger sister and said "It's okay. I don't know who or what is this creature you spoke of, but I promise that we will find it...and will try to stop him from whatever it is planning."

"T-thank you sister." Luna blushed and smiled before clearing her throat. "A-anyway...we also heard in the realm of dreams about a certain holiday called 'Christmas' thou humans spoke of. They say it is their version of Hearth's Warming Eve."

"Oh really?" Celestia formed a smile and said "Something tells me that this is something we gotta check out."

"What thou means sister?" Luna raised a brow.

"I'm saying that tomorrow...we're gonna celebrate it with them!" Celestia smiled, much to Luna's surprise.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 40 - Happy Hearth's Warming Eve & A Merry Christmas To All! Pt. 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Ahh...I love it when it snows." Kaede sighed in joy.

"Me too. I always enjoy playing around the snow when I was a kid." I added with a grin. 

"Y-yeah...it's sorta amusing." Jamie sighed.

"Mm...it's alright." Mason shrugged. We all were at the Ponyville Market place grabbing some 'stuff' for our holiday. It's already Hearth's Warming Eve/Christmas Eve already today, so we should better hurry to spread the Christmas joy around everypony in town. I mean, everypony is gonna love Christmas. 

"So what do you guys want for Christmas? Because I got a special one for myself." Carrie grinned.

"Well I was thinking getting a PS5 from Santa." I suggested, getting weird looks from everyone.

"No offense Ren, but the PS5 hasn't been released." Kaede pointed out.

"Well not with that attitude! I know Santa will give us a PS5!" I exclaimed in excitement while Kodi looked at me in confusion. 

"What's a PS5?" Kodiak asked curiously.

“It’s an updated version of the PS4. You know, that console I installed several months ago.” I explained.

“Seriously, how many gaming consoles do you even have?” Mason questioned.

“Y-yeah…you have a Nintendo Switch, Nintendo 3DS XL, G-Gameboy A-Advance, Xbox O-One S, and a P-PS$.” Jamie counted. “Seriously, how did your parents afford for these things?”

“Well first off, I get them every year in Christmas. Second, well my dad is a computer engineer while my mom works at a business company. But they’ve gotten those jobs till after I started going to school.” I explained.

Everyone was surprised to hear that on how I gotten those famous gaming consoles.

“That’s…great to hear.” Kaede said, smiling awkwardly.

“And you call yourself an average kid.” Mason sighed. What? I don’t have cool talents like you guys, well except playing ever Mario, Sonic, Kirby, Street Fighters, and any gaming character I can think of. 

“Hey guys!” We turned around to see our favorite fillies, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo of the Cutie-Mark Crusaders. “You guys buying things of Hearth’s Warming Eve?” Apple Bloom asked curiously.

“Something like that.” Kaede answered.

“Yeah! We’re buying some food to celebrate both Christmas and Hearth’s Warming Eve!” Carrie added.

“Christmas?” The Crusaders asked in confusion. 

“What the hay is that?” Scootaloo questioned.

“It’s an awesome holiday back in our home.” I answered. “It’s like Hearth’s Warming Eve where everyone gets along and have fun and such, though except people gets presents from Santa Claus!”

“Presents?!” The Crusaders gasped.

“Yes.” Mason nodded with a soft smile. “Everyone gets presents…just only for the good children.”

“R-really? What do the bad children get then?” Sweetie Belle asked curiously.

“Well…just a lump of coal, that’s all.” Kaede answered, rubbing her cheek in embarrassment while surprising the fillies. “Though, I’ve been nice despite my step-family’s cruelty towards me.”

“Yeah! I’ve been a good girl every year for Christmas and always gets tons of gifts!” Carrie added. Sooner or later, I noticed some ponies overhearing our conversation and became interested about it. “Though I’ve heard from my last school’s bully gotten a ton of coal! Literally he did!”

“Whoa!” Scootaloo exclaimed. 

“Do you think this Santa Claus fella will give us gifts?” Apple Bloom asked in worried.

“I know he would. You three are always good.” I assured, rubbing my head bashfully with a grin. “In fact, I think everypony in town are nice. I mean, I have never encountered a bad pony.”

“You…make a valid point.” Mason couldn’t help but agree with me. 

“So what’s this Santa Claus fella about? Is he nice?” Sweetie Belle asked curiously.

“Well of course!” Kaede nodded. “He’s very jolly and goes around the world, delivering 1,000,000 presents to all the children in the world.”

“1,000,000 presents?! That’s crazy!” Apple Bloom exclaimed in shock.

“That’s awesome…but not as awesome as Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo added. “But still, that’s crazy! Is he magic or something.”

“You bet your biscuits.” I winked.

“Yeah! Ren and the others told about what Christmas was last night, along with the decorations back at the home-ship! It looked amazing!” Kodi added with a smile. “Besides, I’m quite excited to celebrate my first Hearth’s Warming Eve and Christmas!”

“Wow…” Sweetie Belle said in awe before turning to Carrie and asked “Is that true? Does Santa Clause really have magical powers?”

“Yep!” Carrie nodded with a bright smile. “He can fit in through any chimney with no problem, just make sure that the chimney isn’t on fire. Also, leave milk and cookies for him to enjoy. It’ll show your gratitude and pleasure towards him for his hard work.”

“There’s also stocking, candy canes, Christmas Tree, carols! Everything related to Hearth’s Warming Eve.” I exclaimed before saying “Just except for the presents and Santa Claus.”

Everypony around us were joyed and excited to hear everything we described, all except for Jamie as he glanced away sadly, which I took noticed. Man, I know he’s full of depression and such, but can’t he at least try to smile for Christmas? It just makes me sad that someone else isn’t enjoying it.

“Santa Claus? Presents? Yeah right.” Huh? Who said that?

“Wait…have we heard those voices before?” Kodi asked in confusion. 

“Oh no…it’s them again.” Apple Bloom sighed. We turned around to see two familiar little fillies that I’ve dealt with before. The ones who kept calling Apple Bloom a ‘blank-flank’ all because she didn’t have a Cutie-Mark. The spoiling princess,  Diamond Tiara, and her other rich and wealthy friend, Silver Spoon.

“Oh hey, haven’t seen you girls in a long while.” I said in surprise. Like seriously, why haven’t I’ve seen them around town? I mean, I don’t think its that hard to see two fillies that likes to bully others and try to gain fame.

“Ahh, who are these guys? They look kinda cute.” Kaede said with a smile.

“Why thank you. My daddy says that I’m such an angel.” Diamond Tiara smirked.

“What do you want Diamond Tiara?” Carrie asked, glaring at her. This caused me and Mason to look at her and then at the two fillies, realizing that Carrie must’ve met them at the Ponyville School.

“You know them?” Mason questioned.

“Yeah! They’re a bunch of bullies back at school that loves to taunt everypony because they don’t have Cutie-Marks!” Scootaloo replied, glaring at Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, the former glaring back at her before scoffing “Please, it serves you right to be called blank-flanks, you blank flank.”

Kaede, Jamie, and Mason became confused by that comment she made as I clarified “In other words, she means ponies with no cutie-marks.”

“…I see.” Mason said, sternly looking at the two fillies. “You know, that’s really un-call for, you know.”

“So what? I don’t take orders from a tall walking talking freakshow.” Diamond Tiara said in a smug look, causing Mason to narrow his eyes at her.

“H-hey…that was u-uncalled for. L-let’s try to calm down and-”

“Hey! How about this? Stop talking and I don’t care freak!” Diamond Tiara laughed, causing everypony to glare at the little filly for the name calling. 

“Yeah, what she said. We have no time with this.” Silver Spoon added.

Jamie’s expression turned into total depression as he glanced away sadly. Oh crap, she really shut him up.

“Hey, leave my friend out of this.” I said, glaring at the two fillies.

“Yeah! You two have no right to treat someone who can’t defend themselves like that.” Kaede added, glaring at the fillies. “And I take back what I said. You two aren’t cute as all.”

“Whatever. I didn’t like your comment.” Diamond Tiara scoffed while Silver Spoon glanced away nervously. Hmm? Wonder what’s up with her?

“Pfft! Please, since when did you like anything that doesn’t suit you?” Scootaloo said in a deadpan expression.

“Whatever! I’m like a princess! I can get whatever I want! Besides, this Christmas…it sounds like a bunch of baloney!” Diamond Tiara exclaimed before nudging her friend and asked “Right Silver Spoon?”

“Y-yeah…totally.” That…didn’t sound like a sincere answer.

“Hey! You take that back!” Kodi growled. 

“What would a mutt like you know? You never celebrated Christmas nor Hearth’s Warming Eve?” Diamond Tiara sneered. “Besides, Santa Claus? Christmas trees? That’s so stupid!”

“It’s not stupid! It’s a tradition our people follow!” I retorted before taking a deep breath.
“Look Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, I know we’ve gotten ourselves in the wrong foot, or hoof, but maybe you girls could try celebrating it with us? I mean, it’ll be a great holiday for everypony in Ponyville to enjoy, am I right folks?” 

The crowd murmured in agreement, already eager to try out our holiday.

Diamond Tiara rolled her eyes and said "Seriously? Are you all so simple-minded?"

"Diamond Tiara, you need stop acting mean." Carrie said, glaring at her. "You need to be nice if ya want presents from Santa!"

"She's got a good point you know." I added with a soft grin. "I mean, you should tried being nice to others."

"Or else you're gonna get a lump of coal for your first Christmas." Kaede added.

"Yeah!" I looked over to see Pinkie bouncing into the air with a cheery expression. She's good at jumping around like that.

"Please, Santa Claus doesn't exist." Everyone gasped in shocked upon hearing what she said.

"She didn't." Sweetie Belle muttered.

"She did." Apple Bloom nodded.

"You take that back!" Carrie demanded before being held back by her brother as he said "It's not worth it, sis. Just let it go."

He glared at the two troublemaking fillies with a hard stern glare, causing them to back away as he said "Besides, it's not worth trying to get them to be nice. If these bullies been bullying with you at school, then it shows that they have no heart."

Silver Spoon glanced away sadly while Diamond Tiara rolled her eyes and scoffed "Whatever, I say what I mean. Santa Claus doesn't exist. I mean, a fat human being with magical powers and can fit through any chimney and delivers 1,000,000 presents around the world? That's ridiculous!"

"It's not ridiculous! It's awesome sounding!" Kodi growled.

"Yeah! I say give it a chance!" I added.

Diamond Tiara gave off a smug look and asked "Oh really? Then if Santa exists, then why doesn't he show up in our world?"

"Well because...uhh..." Crap-baskets, she's good. 

"Because Santa is magic, remember? So he can travel through worlds or so to deliver any presents to all." Kaede said with a smile, much to my joy. Thanks Kay!

"W-well..." Diamond Tiara shifted nervously, unable to make a comeback.

"You were saying Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon?" Scootaloo gave out a smug smirk at her. 

"W-w-whatever! Come on Silver Spoon! Let's go before this nonsense gets in over our heads!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed before letting out a huff and taking her leave with her friend coming along.

"R-right...coming, I guess." Silver Spoon sighed before following after her. I couldn't help but raise a brow at her, wondering about her stuttering. It's like she's acting scared or nervous like Jamie.

"Jeez, those two act like they control the town." Kaede said with an upset look on her face. Carrie pouted and stated "Yeah! When I was started to get along with the Crusaders and everyone else, those two make mean comments at me until my friends and I called them names back."

"I understand why would you do that and I'm impressed by your self-defense..." Mason said with a grin before making a stern look. "But you mustn't call her names, it'll make you no better than her."

"Right...okay, big brother." Carrie nodded in understanding.

"Yeah, besides, bullies really don't mean things like that." I said, much to my friends' confusion. "Well I mean, I had some bullies back when I attended school. They do those things because they have family issues and learned it from them or trying to make themselves feel better."

"I guess you make a valid point." Mason admitted.

"Yeah...that's true." Kaede nodded.

"Why would Diamond Tiara bully us just to make herself better?" Apple Bloom questioned, finding it hard to believe at all. "She always likes being a jerk to everypony."

"Yeah, she even called us names, remember Ren?" Kodi reminded me with a raised brow. I chuckled nervously before patting him on the head and replied "Well true, but I know he and Silver Spoon didn't mean it. Trust me, they'll soon believe in Santa and gain back that Christmas spirit."

"I highly doubt that..." We turned to Jamie, who darkened his face as he said "E-everything she stated...is the t-truth." 

"What?" Carrie asked in confusion.

"Christmas is a waste of a holiday. I don't see why it's special..." Jamie muttered with a sad look.

"Jamie..." I said with concern. 

"You okay?" Kodi asked.

"P-Please leave me be..." Jamie sighed sadly before walking off, which everypony stepped out of the way and watched him leave.

Jamie...why do you hate Christmas so much? Well maybe not that much, but it seems you're taking it so far. It must be something from his past that caused him to hate Christmas...probably because of his father, right?

"Poor Jamie..." Carrie sighed.

"Yeah, he really has lost that Christmas spirit." Kaede said, sympathizing with him. "There's gotta be something we can do!"

"And fast!" Whoa! Where did Pinkie come from?! She instantly appeared right next to me. Oh right, she's Pinkie Pie. Makes sense. "I mean! How can could not like Christmas and Hearth's Warming Eve so much?! I mean, look at that frowney face of his! It's unacceptable!"

"Pinkie, calm down." Kodi assured. "We're gonna try and figure out how to cheer him up."

"Yeah! Hopefully maybe this Santa Claus fella can cheer him up by getting something what he wants, right?" Sweetie Belle suggested with a small smile.

"That's sounds like a great plan! You think Santa will give us what we want for Christmas?" Scootaloo asked in excitement.

"Of course as long as you write him back to letters to let you know what you guys want for Christmas." I assured with a grin.

"Wow! That's awesome! I gotta do that right now!" Apple Bloom exclaimed before running off, along with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.

"Hey! Don't leave us hanging!"

"Yeah! We want to help out too!" Those fillies...even though those three are friendly and are determined to find their Cutie-Marks, they can sometimes lead to trouble. 

"Umm...Mr. Loodan?" Huh? I looked down to see another filly, one with black mane and tail, along with having a gray coat and grayish purple eyes as he asked "Do you think...maybe Santa will visit Equestria to deliver every toy to everypony?"

I smiled at him and ruffled his hair a bit before replying "Well of course! He's always eager to give out every present to everypony! No matter how old they are!"

Everypony let out a cheer and were once again amazed to hear it.

"Only if anypony is nice...those are who naughty only get a lump of coal." Mason added, crossing his arms. "It'll teach anyone around here in Equestria a lesson about being nice next time."

"Then again, it is good to use for a fireplace at least." Kaede shrugged. "But hey, why not we all decorate Ponyville into the biggest Christmas-themed place in the whole world? It's not too late to do so!"

"Yeah, and hopefully it'll left Jamie spirits back up!" Kodi added.

"So...what do you say everypony?" I asked the crowd, who yelled in joy. "Sounds to me that they said yes."

"Yeah! Come on everypony! Let's decorate Ponyville into the best Christmas-themed town in all of Equestria!" Pinkie exclaimed, and soon, everypony began getting to work.

"Well first we've gotta get some food for the Christmas Feast of ours." Mason reminded us. "Though, I'll go get the groceries myself. You guys help out and paint the town red."

"My thoughts exactly!" I nodded with a grin. 

"Well what are we waiting for?! Let's go!" Kodiak exclaimed as we headed over and began helping out Ponyville with decorating the place. Suddenly, I began hearing a certain christmas music playing...which means one thing...a musical number. You can't do anything without a musical number. 

"Wait, we're doing one now?" Kaede asked in surprise. "Been a while since we sang a musical number."

"Why not give it a shot Kay?" I offered.

"R-really?" Kaede asked in surprise.

"Sure! You'll do wonderful." I assured.

"Yeah! You can do it Kaede!" Carrie added. Kaede thought for a while before smiling at us and said "Okay! Let's give it a try!"

That Christmas Feeling!


(Kaede):


Were hanging a star above our tree,
And don't it look lovely
The lights and the tinsily sparkling for you


Everypony, including us, starting putting up colorful Christmas lights on the buildings as I saw Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and the Cutie-Mark Crusaders coming over and were ready to help out as Sweetie Belle handed Rarity a giant candy cane stick as she used her magic to find a neat place to put up the place. 

Applejack, Big Macintosh, and other ponies brought in a big pine tree and moved it to the center of town, planting it gently. I wonder where they gotten that tree? Maybe from Sweet Apple Acres or the Everfree Forest? Those are the only options I know where they can get trees.

Carrie, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and other fillies began filling the tree with decorations like ornaments, red and green banners, and lights.


Got that Christmas feeling,
I take it everywhere I go
And make that Christmas feeling grow

Rainbow and several Pegasus ponies began flying over and with high speed, perfectly set up big ornaments over at the buildings. Whoa, I gotta say! That's awesome! I also noticed two familiar ponies, Snips and Snails, building two snowman...or snow ponies. Though, the weirdest thing that those two snow ponies looks exactly like them. That's...quite weird, but impressive. But I can do better than that. 

So warm by the fireplace we glow,
All cozy and happy
And hang all the stockings in a row with you

I soon began decorating my own snowman with Kodiak helping out by grabbing me some buttons, a carrot, and a hat that he somehow found. Soon, my snowman was finished up and everyone stared at my snowman with curiosity and awe. Well, I don't mean to brag, but I have a great snowman.

Got a Christmas feeling,
I take it every where I go
And make that Christmas feeling grow

I then saw a blast of Christmas lights stringing themselves on some buildings and even Sugarcube Corner before I saw it was Pinkie Pie, using two mini party Cannons around her hooves as...web shooters? She began swinging onto the lights as they let go and stay on the buildings. Okay, I know I shouldn't question her, but how? I mean, who is she? Spider-man?!

It feels like Christmas (Christmas)
Christmas (Christmas)

Holy cow, these ponies really know business. Mr and Mrs. Cake made some delicious figgy pudding, cookies, gingerbread houses and everypony was buying them instantly. I then noticed Fluttershy asking for some animal assistance by a bunch of birds as they grabbed a banner and helped her hang it up. Once they were done, she noticed me afar as I waved happily at her, which made her smile and wave back at me.

Come on I know you don't wanna miss this
Lets make that Christmas feeling grow
Oh, oh, ah
Lets make that Christmasy feeling grow


Soon, Ponyville was completed...all the decorations, the big Christmas Tree and its lighting's, all the delicious cookies, the Christmas stocks, and even the snowman and snowponies were completed. Now Ponyville is now 100% Christmas-themed. Hopefully that there's a Santa Clause in this world. Though it might be farfetch'd because ponies here never seen or heard about him, but I know that he exists. All I gotta do is keep believing. Soon, Rainbow Dash and a black Pegasus with a Mohawk mane style came down with a big Star and planted it on top of the tree the moment Kaede finished the last note of her song.

"Whoa...they work fast." Kaede said, surprised to see all this. "How did I not recognize any of this?"

"Don't know, but all I know that Santa is definitely gonna love this." I replied with a shrug and grin. Hopefully Jamie sees us, maybe it'll make him feel better. Speaking of which, where is he right now? You would think he would've seen all the beautiful decorations and such?



Later
Jamie's POV

I still don't see why everyone likes this holiday so much? It's just...pointless. I mean, I don't want to offend everyone but...Christmas was never a good holiday for me. It's not that I hate any of the Christmas traditions, there's someone back then that never celebrated with me...

Well, I'll easily take this Christmas thing off my mind while I read this book about the many different arts in these magic spells.

"Hey Jamie!" Huh? Spike? Twilight? I turned around to see them entering the place as Spike continued "Wasn't expecting you to show you to be in here."

"I...I just wanted to research, that's all." Actually, I'm just lying so that I have to be involve in this holiday.

"Well the town never looked better than ever!" Spike exclaimed, hopping off my bed as he continued "There was singing! There were cookies! And tons of decorations! You should've seen it! Everypony helped out if it wasn't for Twilight's amazing organization skills."

"Spike, please." Twilight pleaded, blushing from his comment. Organization skills? Oh so she's an organizer. That's pretty good.

"Yeah...that's nice." I replied before copying down some notes into my journal. Twilight and Spike soon noticed me ignoring them as the latter asked "Uhh...Jamie? Are you even listening to us?"

"Yes." I said, not paying attention to them at all. Twilight and Spike looked at each other in confusion before walking over to the table as Twilight asked "Jamie, you know you don't have to be like this."

"B-be like what?" I asked, not taking my eyes off the book.

"We saw what happened back at the town's square." I froze before looking at Twilight with shock. Was she watching me?!

"Yeah, and we saw how really bummed out when Diamond Tiara told you back off." Spike added. "Seriously, that pony really is a pain in the-"

"Spike!" Twilight scolded, glaring at him for almost saying THAT word.

"I-I meant to say, plot! Honest!" Spike assured with a sheepish smile. I highly doubt people or ponies would even dare to say that.

"Anyway..." Twilight cleared my throat before turning back to me in concern. "So Jamie, care to tell us what's in your mind?"

"N-nothing...honest." I assured. "I'm....not a fan of Christmas, that's all."

"But how could you say that?! What about the presents, the gingerbread houses, and the decorations?! Those sound awesome!" Spike exclaimed with an exciting grin. "I mean, I don't think Equestria ever gotten gifts on Hearth's Warming!"

"W-well..."

"Well even so, I want all my friends to enjoy the holidays. Ren, Kaede, Mason, Carrie, Kodiak a everypony else are already finished making the town 100% Christmas-related or whatever Pinkie meant, but we can't celebrate it without you." Twilight said with a concern expression. I turned to her with a sad look as I replied "I-I...I can't. I told you, Christmas is not my thing."

"But why? Surely we'll understand." Twilight assured.

"B-but..."

"Hey, it's okay. I promise." Twilight put her hoof next to my hand, much to my embarrassment. I blushed a bit as she continued "Me, Spike, and everypony else will understand how you feel. Not everyone has a good experience with Hearth's Warming. To be fair...this will be my first Hearth's Warming Eve holiday to do with my friends in my entire life."

"Really?" I asked incredulous.

"Yeah, remember when I said that I didn't have that much friends back in Canterlot when I was a filly?" I nodded, remembering what she told me when I first awoken in Equestria. "Well, the only time I take a break from all that reading and such was Hearth's Warming Eve with my family. It's always that amazing with spending time with my family, me and my brother always love playing in the snow while my mom and dad prepares for some delicious feast. It's the best."

"I-I see..." I said, glancing down in sadness. Family....that was something I never had in my entire life.

"Uh oh." Spike muttered. "Uhh....Twilight? I think you made him more upset than usual."

"N-no no, I'm fine. Just...uncomfortable." I replied sadly.

"Jamie....please. We're here for you." Twilight softly smiled at me, causing me to grin back at her. Twilight...that look she's giving me. It means that she really does care. I.....I don't know what to say at all.

"....A-Alright." I nodded as I took a deep breath, ready to tell them my reason for disliking Christmas. "It's just...I never celebrate it with my father."

"Your father?" Spike asked curiously.

"Yes, my father never comes every year when I was a child. I...I just want to celebrate Christmas with him so badly, but he never bothers to show up for Christmas. To even spend time with me and my sisters for the holidays." I explained as my expression started turning sad. "Then one night, I decided to write a letter to Santa on what I wanted for Christmas. I asked him to have my father to come and celebrate with us, but the next day on Christmas Day...It was just me and my sisters that showed up that day. My father never showed up."

Twilight and Spike gasped, feeling terribly bad for me. It was the right thing to tell them...I can't keep hiding this feeling anymore. I just...want to tell people about it...but I was too much of a coward to even say anything.

"Jamie..." Twilight muttered in shock. "I...I'm so sorry that your wish never came true."

"It's alright...Besides, we never had a close relationship. So it's understandable." I sighed, glancing down in sadness. "Since that day, I never celebrated Christmas...all because my own father wouldn't come."

"Wow...that's really depressing." Spike admitted, feeling bad for me.

"Jamie...I'm so sorry." Twilight apologized.

"No, it's okay. I...I just never had a real Christmas with my entire family. All I just wanted for Christmas was maybe spend a chance with my entire family. Me, my sisters, and my father. I love all my sisters, but my dad always focuses on his work and cares more about his fortunes than any of us." I explained.

"But what about your mother?" Spike questioned, causing me to feel depressed and look away from them, not eager to share any of that information.

"Spike!" Twilight scolded, glaring at him.

"What?! I was just curious!" Spike retorted.

Twilight shook her head before turning back to me with a soft smile and said "Jamie...I'm sorry that you didn't get what you wanted for Christmas. I know maybe there's a chance maybe your wish will come true."

"How? I'm trapped in your world and there's no return, right? I mean, there's a possibility that Princess Celestia is looking for a clue, but all I know that there's no going back to our world...at least not yet." I sighed.

"But...you have us." Twilight smiled before hugging me, causing me to blush like a red tomato. "I understand how you feel. I only have my family, but I had no friends because I didn't care about friendship at all. But when I came to Ponyville and met Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, Ren, Mason, Carrie, Kaede, Kodiak, and you...It made me fill in this empty void in my heart. Something I've been missing for my whole entire life." 

"Twilight..." I muttered in surprise before softly smiling at her. "Thank you..."

"Huh..." We looked over at Spike, who looked at us in astonishment, mostly at me. 

"What?" I asked in confusion.

"Nothing except...well you two make a cute couple." Spike admitted, causing us to widened our eyes in shock as we looked at each other for a minute before yelling "We are not a couple!"

"Jeez! Sorry! Gosh, you didn't have to yell at me like that!" Spike said as me and Twilight ended our hug and glanced away nervously while I blushed. Wait...oh my glob...I-I actually hugged a girl!...Well more like a mare, but still! "Besides, I can imagine you and Ren hugging, Twilight."

"Spike!" Twilight scolded.

"Ren? What about him?" I asked curiously.

"Oh right, back then, she once had a crush on him due to his courage, naivety, determination, and kindness towards-" Spike's mouth was immediately zipped, like literally as his mouth was now zipped in some zip-up spell. Twilight gave him an angry glare before sighing and turning to me with a soft and nervous grin.

"It's...true. I once had a crush on him once, but I gave that up. I realized that he and Fluttershy belonged to each other since she always had his eyes and always encouraged her." Twilight explained. "So it's not a big deal anymore."

"I-I see...." I nodded before frowning a bit. Ren somehow won her heart? But then decline once she learned that Fluttershy really liked him more than her? I guess Ren really is something if he somehow manages to win any mare's heart. He's like...the complete opposite of me. I wished that I had that true strength...

"BLEH!" Huh? Spike spat out a scroll, flying into my hands. Ew, ew, ew! 

"A letter?" Twilight questioned before levitating the scroll out of my hands as I tried to get the saliva off of me. Ugh, I just hope Twilight has something to clean this off. Soon, Twilight opened up the scroll and began reading the contents of the scroll before letting out a gasp. "Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are coming to Ponyville to celebrate Christmas and Hearth's Warming!"

"What!?" I exclaimed in shock. "They're coming all the way here to Ponyville?!"

"Yep!" Twilight nodded.

"But wait, how do they even know about your world's holiday?" Spike questioned with a raised brow.

Twilight blushed a bit and said "W-well...I may have told about it to the princess before we started the Hearth's Warming Eve play."

"Y-you did?" I asked in surprise. 

"Yeah, while you guys were rehearsing. I guess it slipped my mind." Twilight giggled nervously.

“W-well…I’m guess I’m happy to hear that the princesses’ are coming here to celebrate it.” I said with a soft grin. 

“Are you kidding?! Of course we should be happy! The princess are coming this way!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Uh oh…another Twilight melt-down.” Spike muttered in a deadpan expression. I looked at him with confusion as Twilight began pacing around back and forth as she exclaimed “We gotta make everything right! Jamie! You need to hurry and get used to the Christmas spirit and go check out on the other places to see if they’re ready!”
“T-Twilight…please calm down.” I said in worried. Twilight looked back at me with an extremely worried grin as she exclaimed “Calm?! I am calm Jamie! Now excuse me, I gotta go and check on Ren and the others to see if they complete that Christmas feast!”

“Christmas Feast?” I questioned until she shoved a clipboard in my arms and exclaimed “I gotta go! Spike! Watch over the library while I’m gone! Bye!”

With that, she zoomed out of the library, leaving me bewildered by her attitude while Spike shook his head and sighed. I turned to him and asked “Does…that always happen?”

“Yeah, but you guess used to it. Good thing she didn’t try putting on a ‘Want-It, Need-It’ spell on something in order to solve a friendship problem again.” Spike shrugged, much to my confusion.

“Want-It, Need-It spell? Why would she do something like that?” 

“Long story, but right now, it’s best if you went over to do that check-up list before Twilight gets back.”

“…Alright.” I sighed before closing my journal before taking my leave. Oh well, let’s get this over with. Besides, it’ll help take my minds off of things and let me think about some things whether or not if I want to join the others on Hearth’s Warming and Christmas or not…



Later

Alright…I guess I’ll admit…these ponies know how to work hard on the holidays. I was busy over at a giant Christmas Tree as the sun soon started descending. It’s a good thing Rarity and Kaede made me this warm winter coat in case of something like this ever happened. They’re very nice to me, but is this a way to lower my guard? I don’t wanna doubt my friends…but…

“Ugh…how stupid is everypony around here?” Huh? I turned around to see Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon walking over as the former was gawking at the Christmas Tree and exclaimed “I mean, seriously? Are they taking this dumb holiday for reals? Even my own daddy is taking a liking to it!”

“W-well…it does sound like a fun holiday…” Silver Spoon admitted. Huh, she sounded nervous. I wonder why? Unless…she’s unsure about this holiday?

“Come on Silver Spoon, how are we supposed to believe in some made-up holiday about some fat magical man who can deliver a 1,000,000 presents in one night?! That’s so stupid!”

“W-well…”

“What? What is it?” Diamond Tiara demanded.

“N-nothing…Nothing at all…” Silver Spoon sighed sadly. I couldn’t help but sympathized with her. She’s feeling unsure, sad, and doubtful that if Santa does exist, would he get her what she wants for Christmas?

“Whatever.” Diamond Tiara rolled her eyes. “Besides, if I still don’t see the point. Everypony deciding to go to that alien space-ship of theirs? How repulsive. We’ll celebrate Hearth’s Warming besides that dumb old Christmas of theirs.”

“But…it would be nice to-”
“Not the point Silver Spoon!” Diamond Tiara exclaimed, causing Silver Spoon to glanced away nervously. I clenched my fists in anger at her, angry that Diamond Tiara is being mean and doesn’t understand her feelings. 

“Oh what’s the point? I’ll simply just throw my own banquet back at the mansion, that’ll show those human freaks who’s in charge.” Diamond Tiara laughed.

I suddenly grew more upset at her arrogance since she seemed to be the wealthy type obviously. Thinking that she’s above others and she can do whatever she wants. Well I had enough!
“Hey!” I shouted angrily, gaining the two fillies attention as Diamond Tiara gave out a smug look and said “Oh look, it’s that human that we made cry. What do you want?”

“Y-you should stop discouraging Christmas! You should at least try it for yourself!” I exclaimed.

“What would you know? You weren’t all that excited for it.” She pointed out. “Besides, me and Silver Spoon won’t bother to celebrate some made-up holiday that isn’t even a part of our world.”

I winced upon being mentioning that as I took a deep breath and said “Look…tell me Diamond Tiara, why don’t you try it? I mean, i-it’s a great traditional holiday humans celebrate. All about…the season of giving and spending time with their…f-family.” Which is ironic for me because I dislike Christmas in the first place. 

“That’s just a bunch of phoney-baloney! That’s just something so stupid and ridiculous that Ren Loodan made up! After all, he’s an idiot.” Diamond Tiara scoffed.

“Look, Ren may be…childish, but he always have our backs and keeps us back up.” I added, placing my hand on my chest. “I…I want to have that courage.”

“Of course he’s childish! He ruined my perfect dress and cute-ceanera!”

I do not know what’s this ‘cute-ceanera’ is, but it sounds something childish. Though, I highly doubt Ren would’ve ruined her dress.

“But Diamond Tiara, it’s just a dress.” Silver Spoon pointed out, causing the pink filly to glare at her, much to her surprise. “W-which was extremely perfect and amazing!”

“Thank you.” Diamond Tiara smiled before glaring back at me, causing me to flinch. “So if you got something else to say, why not say it now or we’ll just walk away, not eager to celebrate this Christmas holiday of yours.”

“But…you girls should at least believe in Santa!” I yelled, causing me to cover my mouth with the clipboard in my hands as Silver Spoon looked at me in surprise while Diamond Tiara raised a brow and asked “What?”

“W-well…you’re right. Everything that Ren and Carrie described about Santa claus is well…crazy. But you should at least believe in him, you’ll give you whatever you want if you believe and such…or else you’ll just get coal for your first Christmas.” I said with a sad frown before smiling a bit, feeling…determined about this as I continued “B-Besides…I’m sure one of you are really eager to try it out.”

“Oh please, like who would try to celebrate it?” Diamond Tiara rolled her eyes while Silver Spoon glanced away nervously. 

“Y-yeah…” Silver Spoon added, feeling unsure about it.

“Silver Spoon…” I called, gaining her attention. “D-do you…believe in Santa?”

“I…” Silver Spoon looked back at Diamond Tiara as she sighed and replied “I don’t know…”

I looked at her for a while, realizing that her friend was forcing her not to give out an answer. “I-I see…”

“Well either way, we shall be going home. Let’s go Silver Spoon. Let’s go celebrate OUR holiday.” Diamond Tiara said before taking her leave. Silver Spoon looks down on the ground, feeling sad and upset about this. I looked at her with a sad look before walking over and asked “Hey Silver Spoon.”

“Huh?” She looked at me in confusion before asking “W-what is it?”

“It’s okay to believe in him. Truth be told…I once believed in Santa.” I said with a soft smile.

“You did?” She asked me in surprise.

“Yes…Y-you see…I once asked him to one day have my father come to Christmas with us…but he never came at all that Christmas morning. It’s understandable since my father is rather arrogant. Though, today, I think my wish towards Santa is starting to come to light.” I said, slowly smiling. My time during here in Equestria for the past two to three months…spending time with Twilight, Ren, Spike, Kodi, and co. They…they treat me like a real friend. They’re…my real friends.

“How come?” Silver Spoon asked.

“Y-you’ll see…anyway, c-can you do me a favor please?” I asked curiously.

“Huh? What do you mean?” Silver Spoon gave me a confused look as I replied “There’s going to be a party tonight. Maybe you could try convincing Diamond Tiara to come. Please?” 

Silver Spoon thought for a while before smiling “I’ll try at least, but…why are you helping?”
“L-let’s just say…I-I’ll have some issues about Christmas as well.” I explained sadly before softly smiling. “Anyway, thanks for listening to me.”

“I-it was nothing. Anyway, I gotta hurry before Diamond Tiara noticed me gone. Bye!” 

With that, she took her leave and ran off to catch up to her friend. I let out a sigh and wondered about what I said back there. Was I…trying to encourage them to like Christmas? Well…I want to try this out one more time, for their sake.

“Jamie!” Huh? I turned around to see Spike racing towards me, before stopping and trying to catch his breath.

“S-Spike? What is it?” I asked curiously.

“Twilight just came back from the home-ship. Ren and the others finished up making that Christmas feast and wants everypony to come in. Even you.” Spike answered, much to my surprise.

“M-me?” I asked incredulous.

“Yeah! They’re planning a Christmas party at their home so that they can make you feel happy and try to lift your spirits back up after the little skirmish with Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.” They…did this for me? Why…that’s so thoughtful of them.

“R-really? For…me?”

“Yeah! Twilight and the others are waiting for you to come! Besides, the princesses are about to show up! So let’s go!” Spike grabbed my tie and began dragging me over back to the home-ship. 

“W-whoa! Please! Stop! Be careful with my tie!” I exclaimed, almost feeling like I’m about to be choked.

“Sorry!” Spike apologized. So everyone made this Christmas party because of me? Nobody ever done anything nice for me except for the butlers, maids, and my sisters. Maybe my wish did came true?



Later
We soon arrived in front of the home-ship, seeing the entrance being decorated with an inflatable Santa Claus, which makes me begs the question on how on earth did they get that?

"Well, here we go." Spike said with a smile before turning to me and asked "You ready?"

I glanced at him nervously before taking some thought into it. Do you I really want to do this? Well I have to...for them, right? I-I mean...not literally...but...

"Uhh...Jamie? Are you feeling alright?" I flinched upon hearing my name being called as I turned to Spike, who raised a brow at me in confusion.

"Y-yeah...I-I guess." I nodded with a soft and nervous smile.

"Alright, let's go." Spike smiled before we entered into the home-ship, finding everypony inside as they noticed us and became joyed to see us.

"Jamie! You came!" Twilight called, walking over to me with a smile. "I knew that you would come!"

"Y-yeah...I thought about it for a while..." I nodded.

"Really? What is it?" Twilight asked.

"I..." What could this answer I want to be? No...I already have the answer. "I've decided...to give it one more try."

Twilight smiled happily at me, glad to see what my answer was.

"Glad to hear that, Jamie!" I was immediately patted on the back by Ren, who grinned happily as he said "I'm glad to hear that you'll finally got that Christmas spirit! Along with Hearth's Warming Eve!"

"Here, here!" Carrie added as the rest of my friends came over. 

"Yeah! So what made you change your mind?" Kodi asked.

"W-well...let's just say I met somepony else who else have troubles adjusting to Christmas." I replied with a meek smile. 

"Really?" Applejack asked incredulous. "It wouldn't be Diamond Tiara?"

"...Yeah." I nodded.

"So you somehow managed to convince her to come here and enjoy Christmas?" Mason questioned.

"No...just her friend, Silver Spoon."

"Silver Spoon? Isn't she that gray pony with that silver spoon for a Cutie-Mark and wears those glasses?" Kaede asked. I nodded as Fluttershy asked "So what did she say?"

"She says that she'll love to come here and will try to convince her to come to the party." I answered.

"Well that was sorta nice of her." Rarity said, a little surprise to hear that. "Though I thought she wouldn't since she is friends with Diamond Tiara."

"Well even if she is friends with her, I can't help but wonder about her attitude earlier." Ren said, rubbing his chin as we walked over to the punch table, where Pinkie stuffed her entire face into it. Umm...should I tell her that's sorta disgusting?...No, I'll let her do her stuff. "But after hearing this from Jamie, I guess that she might be lonely and scared of not making friends due to her reputation at school."

"Yeah, that is true." Carrie nodded, starting to feel bad for her. "I just hope that Santa will give her a present for her."

"I know that he will." Mason assured with a grin, causing Carrie to smile.

"So when will they show up?" Rainbow asked curiously.

"I...don't know." I shrugged.

"Well I hope soon! Because this punch ain't gonna drink itself!" Pinkie exclaimed, drinking up the punch again before taking her head out of it and asked "Want some?"

"Uhh...I think I'm good, thank you." I decline politely with a nervous grin.

"Well I hope they don't arrive late because who knows when the princesses' will-"

"Will what Twilight?" Twilight froze upon hearing that voice as we turned around to see two balls of light floating down in the center of the party, and suddenly, two tall ponies appeared. One was quite majestic, with a rainbow mane flowing magical and has golden accessories while the other was small and had dark blue hair, also having her hair flow magical. The thing I noticed is that their Cutie-Marks was that the older one had a sun while the other had a moon.

Everypony gasped in shock before bowing down at the two princesses, along with me and the others.

"It's quite alright everypony, there's no need to bow." Princess Celestia insist. "We come to enjoy the party, that's all."

"Tis is true." The other one who I think is Princess Luna nodded in agreement. According to the History of Equestria, it's says that these two are the rulers of Equestria and have been keeping watch of it for 1,000 years. So are these two immortal? Is immortality exists in this world? 

Soon, we stopped bowing as everypony, even the fillies, were amazed and stared in awe to see the two princesses.

"Hey Celeste! Lulu! What's up?" Ren asked with a grin.

"We're thou doing alright, Ren Loodan." Princess Luna replied with a smile before asking "But Celeste? Lulu? Are those supposed to be shorter versions of our names?"

"Yeah. Since we are friends." I assured with a grin. Princess Luna blushed and said "I-I see."

Princess Celestia chuckled at her sister's reaction before turning to Twilight, who apparently was smiling nervously at her. "So anyway Twilight, what was it you were saying before our arrival?"

"W-well...umm...nothing! Just glad to see you both! That's all Princess Celestia and Princess Luna!" Twilight chuckled nervously while Princess Celestia simply smiled and said "I see."

She soon turned to me with a curious glance and asked "Ahh, so you must be Jamie Watson. The new human who has awoken from the pod of the home-ship, correct?"

"Ah!" I gasped before clearing my throat, feeling quite nervous being in front of one of the rulers of Equestria. Alright Jamie, just stay calm and stay calm. "Y-y-yes ma'am! I-I mean your highness! I am J-J-Jamie Watson!"

Dang it...

"Well it is nice to meet you at last. I am sorry if we didn't meet each other last night for the Hearth's Warming Eve play. I had important business to attend while my sister was busy with her task as well." Princess Celestia smiled.

...Just roll with it for now.

"Y-yes, I see." I chuckled nervously.

"So your highness's, what brings you both here to Ponyville?" Mason questioned politely.

"We heard about this holiday called 'Christmas' and we were thou curious to learn much about it." Princess Luna explained.

"H-huh? How did you know?" Ren asked in surprise.

"We've explored in the realms of dreams and heard about this Christmas you human thou talked about." Princess Luna explained, causing Ren to smile sheepishly at that.

"I-I see..." Realm of dreams? What could she mean by that?

"Though it's amazing that you two came!" Kaede said with a smile. "I hope you enjoy the desserts. Mason and I worked very hard on it."

"Same here. Though I only worked on the cake." Ren added, much to Princess Celestia's delight. 

"Really? Could you take me to the desserts, Ren?" Princess Celestia asked excitedly.

"Sure." Ren nodded before he and the princess went off, leaving us bewildered by the princess's sudden behavior.

"What just happened?" Rainbow Dash asked. 

"Yeah, why did she act so suddenly like that?" Fluttershy added. Princess Luna shook her head while smiling and replied "My sister has quite a fondness towards cakes. Trust me, it's an unbreakable habit of hers."

"That's alright." Twilight sighed with a smile. "At least she's enjoying the party so much at least. Like there's nothing gonna wrong or anything like that!"

"Calm down Twilight!" Kodi said with a concern look.

"Yeah! It's a Christmas party and we all should enjoy it!" Carrie giggled before turning to the night princess and said "Come on Luna! Let's go play some Christmas games!"

Princess Luna simply smiled and said "Ha ha ha! Let us, young Carrie."

With that, she and Princess Luna took their leave while we watched with smiles.

"It seems those two are getting closer than ever." Rarity smiled.

"Yeah..." I nodded before seeing what time it was. It was already 9:00 P.M. Where could Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara be? "Hey girls, I'll be right b-back."

"Huh? Where are you going Jamie?" Kaede asked.

"Just to go and get Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara." I answered, much to their surprise.

"Why them? Those two hate us!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

"Plus, those two always bullied the girls a lot." Applejack added, feeling upset about that.

"But like Ren said, they're bullying o-others because of some problems they're having. B-besides...isn't Christmas and Hearth's Warming Eve about being with everyone?"

The girls looked at each other in wonder as Fluttershy said "Jamie is right, you know. Besides, Ren and the others worked very hard on this party along with everypony else. So its fair for everypony to enjoy."

"Well...you do raise a good point." Rarity agreed.

"Whatever! Just don't come crying to me when those two refuse to come!" Rainbow scoffed, causing me to frown at her for not having faith on those two. I'm going to try to get them to enjoy Christmas...after all, they're having the same issues as I had. 

"Anyway...I'm gonna go. Be right back. See ya you guys." I wished them goodbye before taking my leave. I put on my winter coat, hat, mittens, and scarf before heading out and went to go look for those two fillies. I...just want to at least understand why they should accept Christmas.



After asking some directions from a few ponies who still were out here in town, just closing down shop and heading out to the party, I managed to find Diamond Tiara's home, which was a big mansion with a hedge maze to the side. I managed to go through the gates and knocked on the door, waiting for a minute until it was answered by a grayish amber colored pony with light azure eyes with a dark gray with lighter mane and tail.

"Ahh, what's this? You must be one of those humans my daughter and her friend mentioned?" He asked in surprise before forming a grin and said "Pleased to meet you."

"N-nice to meet you too sir and happy Hearth's Warming Eve and Merry C-Christmas." I bowed and smiled at him.

"Oh right! Happy Hearth's Warming Eve as well." He chuckled with a grin. "Though, I have heard about this Christmas from my little angel about it. Although, she seemed really upset and has been trapped in her room with her friend. I awfully feel bad for her."

"I...I see. Anyway sir-"

"Oh please, call me Filthy Rich." F-Filthy Rich?! That's more of an expression than a name! "I don't mean to brag, but I'm one of Ponyville's richest ponies."

"I see." I said with a sigh. Well, hopefully this pony isn't such a terrible man like my father. "So anyway...I wished to bring your daughter and her friend to a Christmas party back at my home. I wished for her to at least try to make her smile at least."

"Well...I see why not. After all, it might cheer up her sour attitude." Filthy Rich smiled before allowing me inside and directed me upstairs to a large door. "Just past these doors are my little angel's room. Please knock first, you know its very rude to barge in."

"I-I understand, Mr. Rich." I said with a nod. 

"Mr. Rich? Mr. Rich was my father, you can just call me Filthy Rich." I couldn't but grin at him, not because of his name being funny, but because of his politeness. I guess I stand corrected. "Anyway, please be nice to each other."

"Y-yes sir." I nodded before realizing something. "Oh by the way, why didn't you go to the party? Almost everypony was there."

"I was until Diamond Tiara didn't want to go, and even her friend tried to convince, but she kept refusing to do it due to not believing in this Santa Claus figure." Filthy Rich explained, causing me to frown. She's still in denial? I-I guess it'll be a hard time to convince her...but...at least I'll try. That'll be something that Ren would do, right?

"I...see. Alright, thank you Filthy Rich." I replied.

"Anytime...umm...oh my. I do not think you introduced yourself to me." 

"My name is Jamie Watson. Sorry if I-I haven't introduce myself." I said, feeling embarrassed about it.

"No no, it's okay. Thanks for letting me know Jamie." He then began walking away before I turned around and faced the doors. You know, it's quite weird...Diamond Tiara acts like she's far above than everypony else due to her status of being, well rich, so why does her father acts so nice? Hmm...she must've gotten that attitude from somewhere. Maybe her mother?...No, I'm just assuming things. I can't know until I find out myself. 

Soon, I began knocking on the door before it was answered by Silver Spoon herself.

"M-Mr. Watson!" Silver Spoon gasped before we heard some groaning from inside, presumably Diamond Tiara as I whispered "P-Please quiet down. I-I don't think Diamond Tiara is in the mood to see me or any of my friends."

"Yeah...so what is it?" Silver Spoon asked in a quiet voice to make sure her friend doesn't hear me.

"I-I came by to see what was taking so long. I mean, you girls took a very long time until I realized that Diamond Tiara is still in denial, correct?" I guessed with a sad look.

"Yeah..." Silver Spoon nodded. "I want to go to the party, even without her...but...I'll feel lonely because she's the only friend I got."

"Really?" I asked incredulous.

"Yeah, since she and I belonged in wealthy families and our parents are friendly with each other, we became good friends and I tried to act smug like her so that I can impress her." Silver Spoon admitted. "I...I'm just scared because after everything we've done to the fillies and Carrie, I...I don't think they'll be friendly with me."

"...I see." I sighed. "I understand how it feels without a friend. Though, I can tell the others how you feel when you're around Diamond Tiara-"

"No please!" Silver Spoon pleaded. "I...I don't want to hurt Diamond Tiara's feelings. I'll tell her myself how I feel everyday when we bully somepony else, but...I guess until the time is right when she goes too far."

I thought for a while, thinking that maybe I should keep it a secret from the others. Well Ren already knows that she probably doesn't like bullying, along with Diamond Tiara due to bullies having family issues or something to make them feel better. So...I guess I'll hold onto her word. I-I mean, that's what friends do, right?

"O-Okay. I promise." I assured.

"Pinkie promise?" Silver Spoon asked.

"P-Pinkie promise?" I asked, which she nodded. Well, I've read a lot about a Pinkie Promise, so I know how to do it. "Cross my heart, hope to die, stick a needle in my eye."

Silver Spoon blinked in confusion at what I said, which I noticed. "What?"

"Well...close enough..." What?! What do you mean close enough?! I read about pinkie promises like a thousand times! How can I get it wrong?! "But anyway, okay."

"You're welcome. N-now could you maybe please allow me so that I could talk with D-Diamond Tiara?" I asked, which Silver Spoon nodded without hesitation as she allowed me as I looked around, my curiosity rising upon seeing her big pink bedroom. You know, she must really like pink. Soon, I noticed a big lump on the bed, which I identified as Diamond Tiara.

"M-Miss Tiara?" I called, gaining her attention as she came out of the blanket and became irritated to see me again. 

"Oh great, you again." Diamond Tiara scoffed. "What do you want?"

"I...I was wondering why aren't you i-in the p-party." I said with a nervous grin. 

"Are you deaf or something?! I said that I won't go to that made-up holiday of a party!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed. "Santa Claus doesn't exist!"

"...Diamond Tiara, I know that you don't like any of us, but I still think you should enjoy the holiday." I said with a serious look, causing her to look at me with confusion. "Truth be told, I didn't like Christmas because my father never celebrated it with me back when I was a kid. But now...that was in the past. I want to try it out one more time...with everyone. Besides, your own friend wishes to celebrate Christmas and hopefully tries to get a present."

"Your point?" Diamond Tiara asked.

"Silver Spoon wants to go to the party Ren and the other set up. But she can't without you, it'll make her feel lonely." Diamond Tiara widened her eyes in shock before looking at Silver Spoon, who glanced away sadly.

"I-Is that true, Silver Spoon?" Diamond Tiara asked.

"Y-yes. Sorry if I didn't tell you why, Diamond Tiara." Silver Spoon sighed.

"See? She wants to celebrate this holiday with you. So please...give her a chance and come to the party." I said seriously before nervously grinning and asked "P-pretty please?"

Diamond Tiara thought for a while until she sighed heavily and said "Fine...only because of Silver Spoon."

Me and Silver Spoon looked at each other and smiled happily to hear this.

"But still! I still think Santa Claus still doesn't exist!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed.

"Y-yeah...I get it." I sighed. Oh well, at least she'll go to the party at least.

"Come on! Let's hurry before we miss it!" Silver Spoon insisted, bouncing around happily. Diamond Tiara got out of her bed and couldn't help but smile softly at her and said "Indeed Silver Spoon! Indeed!"

She and her friend then bump their rumps together and chanted "Bump! Bump! Sugar rump!"

...No comment. I guess it's their own way of what friends do...



Later, Filthy Rich became excited that his own daughter finally decided to go to the Christmas party as we hurried over to the home-ship, where the gang were shocked to see me finally convinced the two to come join us, well one of them was excited but the other was still in denial that Christmas is still made-up, along with Santa Claus. 

"I'm still surprised that you let her come here." Mason said, looking at me with a serious expression. 

"W-well...I-I just felt l-like e-everypony deserved to come and should e-enjoy the holidays...t-together." I replied nervously.

"But still, that was very thoughtful of you Jamie." Kaede smiled.

"Indeed." Princess Celestia agreed. "I think a lesson has been learned tonight, right Jamie?"

"Y-yes Princess Celestia." I nodded with a soft grin. "I learned that maybe back then...that just because you had a bad experience with something because you never received it doesn't mean you should dislike it. You should keep trying until you learned to like it. Besides...I-I already made my wish for Christmas come true...b-being here with the people that cares about me."

"Ahh, Jamie." Fluttershy smiled.

"Gotta admit, that's a really nice gift, James." Ren smiled.

"Yeah, and we're glad that everypony is here." Rainbow smiled before all my friends hugged me tightly, much to my surprise. They really do care about me. That's...all I ever wanted for Christmas.

"And a perfect lesson about friendship has been learned." Princess Celestia smiled before taking a bite of a slice of velvet cake, much to her delight.

"And of course you would enjoy a slice of cake, dear sister." Princess Luna rolled her eyes with a smirk on her face while Princess Celestia blushed and smiled sheepishly.

"Ugh, so how long till this dumb party ends again?" Diamond Tiara asked, already getting tired.

"Well actually, we got one more surprise for ya." Ren grinned.

"Really? What is it Ren?" Kodi asked curiously. Ren gestured us all to follow him as we all headed outside and back into town as we all stood at the giant Christmas Tree.

"What's the point of bringing us back here again?" Rainbow Dash asked. 

"For this! Paralyze!" Ren took out the Hacking Gun and shot 'Paralyze' at the star, causing it to glow and all the decorations to glow as well, lighting them up.

"Oooh!...Ahhh!..." Everypony stared at it in awe, amazed by the lights.

"Wow! It's so amazing!" Carrie exclaimed in amazement.

"Wowie-zowie! How did I not think of that?!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"So this is thou Christmas tree?" Princess Luna gazed at it with a smile. "We admit that thou Christmas Tree is quite elegant."

"Thanks princess. We worked mighty hard on it." Applejack smiled. 

"And I'll say this Christmas really was worth something." Rarity smiled.

"Indeed it was, Rarity. Indeed it was." Mason nodded. Soon, snow began falling down, much to our surprise.

"S-snow?" Spike asked in confusion.

"But how?! I don't remember scheduling a snow storm tonight on Hearth's Warming Eve?!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"So then...who?" Fluttershy asked in confusion. Suddenly, we began to hear some bells ringing as we all looked around in confusion.

"What the? What was that?" Kodi wondered.

"Ho ho ho!" That laugh...it can't be..."Ho ho ho!"

"Santa?" Ren asked in shocked and awe before they looked up to see a silhouette figure riding a sled and a bunch of reindeer. 

"H-he is real..." Diamond Tiara gasped. 

"Woo-hoo! He's real! He's real! He's real!" Pinkie chanted, bouncing around happily with a smile on her face. "I knew it! I knew it! I knew it!"

"Yay!" Fluttershy cheered quietly.

"Unbelievable..." Twilight said, her eyes sparkling in amazement.

"Awesome!" Spike cheered.

"I had a feeling he might come." Princess Celestia smirked, much to my confusion. Does that mean that she anticipated this? Or maybe...she planned this?

"I don't believe it..." Diamond Tiara slumped down in sadness. "He...He was real all along and yet I kept denying him. No, I kept denying Christmas."

"Diamond Tiara..." Silver Spoon walked over and smiled at her as she said "It doesn't matter. Even so, I'm glad that you finally accepted it. Besides, I'm glad to finally celebrate both Hearth's Warming and Christmas with you."

"You...you really mean it?" Silver Spoon nodded, causing Diamond Tiara smile happily as they both hugged each other, causing me to smile happily. 

"Is...Diamond Tiara acting...nice?" Apple Bloom asked in shock.

"I guess this Christmas really is the season of giving and bringing everypony together." Sweetie Belle added, also shocked about this.

"Yeah, but I guess they deserved this moment." Scootaloo rolled her eyes.

"Well either way, I'm happy for them." Carrie smiled, much to the crusader's shock. Soon, something began falling down as they landed in our hands and hooves, causing us all to gasp in amazement.

"P-Presents?!" Spike exclaimed in excitement.

"This...is....amazing!" Pinkie shouted, jumping high into the air and letting out a 'Woo-hoo' in the process. 

Soon, Twilight opened up her present first and out came something that made her gasped in shock.

"A-A-A Guide To Be The Perfect Unicorn Mage?! Amazing!" Twilight shouted. Our friends and everypony else began opening up their presents, also shocked once they found out their gifts as well.

"A-A new dress!" Rarity shouted. "And it's made by a special kind of fabric that nopony has ever came across! This is fabulous!"

"Sweet! A Wonderbolt goggles!" Rainbow grinned, trying them with with a grin on her face.

"And a new hat. Neat." Applejack smirked, trying out her new cowboy hat, which looked exactly like her original one.

"A new bowl for Angel?! Yay!" Fluttershy cheered.

"No way....it's a Playstation 5!" Ren exclaimed happily, showing off his new PS5 box set, much to our shock.

"No way! But that console hasn't been released yet!" I exclaimed.

"Ha ha ha, awesome!" Ren grinned.

"A sewing kit? I always wanted one of my own!" Kaede exclaimed.

"Yay! A new dollhouse!" Carrie showed off her barbie dollhouse, much to the crusader's amazement and jealousy.

"Hmm...a new sheath to keep my bamboo sword. Neat." Mason smiled. Soon, everypony opened their presents, revealing new antiques, toys, and such. I looked over at the perfect wrapped blue gift box as I slowly opened it, causing me to gasp in surprise.

"A whole batch of notebooks! Yes! With these, I can never run out of writing down info!" I exclaimed in amazement while my friends either gave me weird looks, and smirks.

"Books...why am I not surprise by that?" Rainbow Dash asked herself.

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon also received gifts, revealing a sparkling tiara for the pink filly and a new pony doll for the grey filly.

"A tiara? But why? I thought that when you're naughty that you get coal?" Diamond Tiara asked herself.

"Maybe because you did something nice for once." Silver Spoon suggested with a smile. "That you finally understood my feelings and came to the party with me, along with finally believing in Santa the moment we saw him."

"...I guess so. Thanks." Diamond Tiara smiled before she hugged her best friend.

"So...does anypony else think that this is a sign that maybe Diamond Tiara is changing?" Scootaloo asked her friends, who thought for a while until they bluntly said "No!"

"Yeah, me too." Scootaloo shrugged. 

I continued to look over my new notebooks while thinking upon what I just witnessed. Santa Claus really does exist...but I want to know how on earth did someone like him got here in Equestria?...Huh? I noticed something else inside the box as I took it out, revealing a note. Is this from...Santa?

Dear Jamie, I am so glad that you're finally believing in the spirit of Christmas and Hearth's Warming Eve again. As well as celebrating this holiday with your new friends, along with learning your lesson about it. Also, thank you for making Diamond Tiara believe in me. Even though she done a lot of bad things, she did one nice thing for her friend, Silver Spoon. It's just an exception, and I think somepony like her deserved it. Until next year, I bid you farewell until next Christmas and Hearth's Warming Eve. - Sincerely yours, Santa Claus. 

....No way. I gotten myself a letter from Santa Claus himself! I can't wait for the others to see it and...

POOF!

What the?! It just disappeared right in front of my eyes! No!...Oh well...

"This is the best Hearth's Warming Eve ever!" Twilight cheered.

"Yeah! For my first Hearth's Warming Eve and Christmas, this truly has been great so far!" Kodi added with a chuckle.

"Dang right!" Ren agreed, still excited for his PS5.

"Well I know one thing..." Princess Celestia and her sister looked at each other with smiles on their faces as she announced "I shall make Christmas a new holiday for Equestria to enjoy. Like Ren and his friends stated, it's for everypony to enjoy! So everypony around Equestra should enjoy it as well, either with their friends and family."

"Indeed." Princess Luna nodded in agreement.

"Y-yeah...me too." I nodded as my friends came over and hugged me tightly, feeling happy not about their gifts, but everyone being here. If it wasn't for Twilight, I...I guess I-I wouldn't enjoy it once again. Besides, maybe I wasn't able to get my father to celebrate with me. He can take a hike at least, I got these people and ponies with me...my friends.

Suddenly, music started ringing around the area, much to my confusion.

"Umm...where is that music coming?" I asked in confusion.

"Uh oh! It looks like another musical number!" Ren smiled.

"Musical number?"

"Yeah, apparently it's a thing here in this world." Mason explained. "Though, I'll never figure out who's playing that music."

"Duh! The writers of our show!" Pinkie answered, much of our confusion.

"What?" Carrie asked in confusion.

"Nothing!" Pinkie assured with a giggle.

"Well...come on everypony! Let's do it together!" Kaede said with a smile, which everyone agreed. 

"Yeah! What do you say Jamie?" Ren asked, extending his hand in front of me. I looked at it for a while before softly smiling and accepting it before saying "Yeah. I'm ready."

Soon, the music began playing a familiar Christmas song from a certain band. I think it was called NSYNC. Haven't heard their music before, but I heard they make good music. But you know, maybe singing it won't be bad. I got my friends by my side, and besides...it would be nice to sing at least.


Merry Christmas, Happy Hearth's Warming Eve!




(Ren):

Merry Christmas, Happy Hearth's Warming Eve
Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas
Happy Hearth's Warming Eve

(Twilight):
We've been waiting all year for this night
And the snow is glistening on the trees outside

(Kaede):
And all the stockings are hung by the fire side
Waiting for Santa to arrive

(Jamie):
And all the love will show
'Cause everypony knows
It's Christmastime and
All the fillies will see
The gifts under the tree
It's the best time of the year for the family

(Choir):
It's a wonderful feeling
Feel the love in the room
From the floor to the ceiling
It's that time of year
Christmastime is here
And with the blessings from above
Celestia sends you his love
And everybody's okay
Merry Christmas, Happy Hearth's Warming Eve
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas
Happy Hearth's Warming Eve!

(Carrie):
Bells are ringing
It's time to scream and shout (scream and shout)
And everypony's playing cause school's out

(Mason):
Celebrating this special time we share
Happiness cause love is in the air

(Rarity):
And all the love will show
'Cause everypony knows
It's Christmastime and
All the fillies will see
The gifts under the tree
It's the best time of the year for the family

(Choir):
It's a wonderful feeling
Feel the love in the room
From the floor to the ceiling
It's that time of year
Christmastime is here
And with the blessings from above
Celestia sends you his love
And everthing's okay
Merry Christmas, Happy Hearth's Warming Eve
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas
Happy Hearth's Warming Eve

Merry Christmas, Happy Hearth's Warming Eve
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas
Happy Hearth's Warming Eve!

(Fluttershy):
No matter what your holiday
It's a time to celebrate

(Rainbow Dash):
And put your worries aside (worries aside)
And open up your mind (open up your mind)

(Jamie):
See the world right by your side
It's Christmastime

(Choir):
Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas
Happy Hearth's Warming Eve
Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas
Happy Hearth's Warming Eve!

It's a wonderful feeling
Feel the love in the room
From the floor to the ceiling
It's that time of year
Christmastime is here
And with the blessings from above
Celestia sends you his love
And everything's okay
Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas
Happy Hearth's Warming Eve
Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas
Happy Hearth's Warming Eve
Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas
Happy Hearth's Warming Eve!


As soon as we finished the song, we all hugged each other and looked at the beautiful night sky, seeing the snow still falling down to us.

"And that folks is how to sing a Christmas song." Ren said, causing everypony to laugh.

"You said it Ren. You said it." Rainbow nodded.

"And I'm glad to celebrate it with you all." Twilight added with a smile before looking at me as I smiled and said "Same here Twilight."

This is what I wanted. Attention and love...that's what my hearts want. I'm so happy to finally...make friends for the first time in my entire life.
> Chapter 41 - Family Appreciation Day!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So you're going off training again at Sweet Apple Acres, big brother?"

"Of course. The Apple family won't mind me training over at their farm. As long as I help them out." 

"Alright! Besides, it'll be fun playing with Apple Bloom!"

It's been a month since we celebrated our Christmas and Hearth's Warming Eve with everypony in town. Even though Diamond Tiara gotten a present from Santa due to understanding Silver Spoon's feelings and finally accepting that he exists, she's still treats us like she's superior than us. Though, I still don't mind her messing around with me because I got my friends and I'll always be with them. So anyway, me and my big brother, Mason, were heading over to Sweet Apple Acres because he wants to keep training while helping out the Apple family with their business. Oh well, while he's busy, I can play around with Apple Bloom and possibly go look for our talents.

We soon arrived to the farm, only to see a bunch of clouds coming around and let out a cackle of lightning onto them, much to our shock.

"What in the world?!" Mason exclaimed before we looked at each other in worried and ran inside of the farm as we entered the fields, only to see the leaves turning into a violet color as we saw the bolt of lightning from earlier dancing around across many trees, causing more leaves to change color.

"Whoa, what's happening?" I wondered.

"I don't know." Mason replied, narrowing his eyes a bit.

"Woo-wee!" Oh hey, it's Applejack! We looked over to see Applejack and Big Macintosh racing down the hill and into the fields with grins on their faces. "There's the zap apple leaves! Right on schedule!"

"Eeyup!" Big Mac nodded with a grin.

"Applejack?" Mason called, gaining the Apple siblings' attention.

"Hey Mason! Hi Carrie!" Applejack smiled upon seeing us as she and her big brother walked over to us as she asked "What brings you partners over to the farm?"

"I was coming over here for some training while Carrie was going to play with Apple Bloom." Mason explained before gazing around the trees. "What's going on here?"

"And why are the leaves turning violet?" I asked curiously.

"Oh that? The zap apples are coming!" Me and Mason looked at each other in confusion, not familiar with that name. 

"What? Zap apples?" Mason questioned. 

"Zap Apples are the best fruit you could have. It's been appearing every year in Sweet Apple Acres." Applejack explained. "Our Granny Smith's been making Zap Apple Jam as long as she remembers, ain't that right Big Mac?"

"Eeyup!" Big Mac nodded.

"Zap Apple Jam?" I asked, feeling like my hunger is raising upon hearing that." That sounds so delicious! Can I try some?"

"Sure thing, but you have to wait until the fifth sign appears. That way, the Zap Apples will fully appear and we'll be able to harvest the Zap Apples." 

"I see...well if you're busy, then I guess we'll take our leave." Mason sighed.

"Ahh...but I want to play with Apple Bloom!" I whined. 

"Well...I guess I can leave with her." Mason suggested.

"Or maybe you both could help out. I won't mind some more help with the Zap Apples." Applejack offered. "Ain't that right Big Mac?"

"Eeyup!" Big Mac nodded with a grin.

"Really?" Mason asked, feeling intrigued. "Well, I guess this could help out in my training. What do I have to do?"

"It's simple. Just unload these jars and placed them beneath all these trees." Applejack explained, pointing to the cart of empty jars that Big Mac was carrying. "Shouldn't be hard for a bodyguard, right?"

"Well...yes indeed." Mason smiled before turning to me and said "Carrie, you can go and play with Apple Bloom."

"Yay! Alright!" I nodded before asking Applejack "So where is she?"

"She should be at the farmhouse with Granny Smith." Applejack answered. "I bet that filly is preparing to sing to the water."

"Sing...to the water?" I tilted my head in confusion.

"See, it's tradition for fillies to wear bunny suits and sing the ABC's to the water. They may say it could give you good luck." Applejack smiled, much to my joy.

"I guess I can try! See ya big brother! Applejack! And Big Mac!" I waved goodbye to them before taking my leave as I headed to the farmhouse to go and play with my friend. As soon as I arrived, I saw my friend, Granny Smith, and two ponies around the farmhouse. I instantly knew that one of them was Diamond Tiara while the other I didn't know who it was. It must be a relative of hers. Maybe her dad? Though I saw Apple Bloom and Granny Smith wearing two bunny suits, causing me to grin at her. Ahh, they look funny...but adorable at the same time. Hmm...I think that would be something Kaede would say.

"Well howdy-doo there, Filthy Rich!" Filthy Rich? Tee-hee! That sounds like a silly name for a pony. 

"Hello, Mrs. Smith. Did I hear right there that there's a zap apple harvest coming in a few days?" Filthy Rich asked curiously.

"Four days, to be exact!" Granny Smith answered.

"Excellent news, and as usual, I get your first hundred jars?" Whoa, one hundred jars? That's a lot to eat. To buy all that...he must really be filthy rich!

"Course, Filthy!" Granny Smith smiled.

"Uh, I prefer Rich." He suggested, feeling a bit embarrassed for her using the first part of his name. I guess I can see why he prefers being called 'Rich' instead of 'Filthy'.

"Oh, and how is your pappy doing?" Granny Smith asked curiously. Soon, I noticed Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara talking as I overheard what they were talking about.

"Oh, you poor, poor, thing, having to make all that zap apple jam with Granny Smith." Diamond Tiara said in a mocking tone.

"Actually, I been looking forward to making zap apple jam for years!" Apple Bloom said with a smile.

"I'm not talking about the jam." Diamond Tiara clarified, much to Apple Bloom's confusion. "I'm talking about Granny Smith! You must be sooo embarrassed."

Where is this conversation going? I then noticed Granny Smith getting her head stuck in a cooking pot. How did I not noticed that by now? 

"Uhh...what do you mean?" Apple Bloom asked.

"You know...with all her silly ways, how she forgets things, and makes you wear these ridiculous costumes?" Diamond Tiara said with a smug look.

"But, Granny said that the water needs-"

"Thank goodness you're here on the farm and not in town where everypony could see you." Diamond Tiara smirked before muttering something in her ear, causing Apple Bloom to feel sadden. I glared at Diamond Tiara as she zoomed off somewhere while Apple Bloom felt...unsure of herself.

"Silly ways?" Apple Bloom wondered. I then heard a banging sound as I turned to my right and saw Filthy Rich banging the cooking pot, causing it to shake and Granny Smith to feel dizzy from the hit since her head is still stuck in there. I think he was trying to get it out of here, but it didn't work.

"U-uh, t-thank y-you k-kindly, F-Filthy!" Granny Smith said, walking backwards as the shaking continued. Well I guess I can just go out and talk with Apple Bloom after hearing all what Diamond Tiara said about being embarrassed around Granny Smith.

"Hi Apple Bloom!" I greeted, gaining her attention as she sheepishly smiled and said "O-Oh hi there Carrie! How its going?"

"Everything is going alright. I came over to play with ya until Applejack told me about the Zap Apple Jam and my big brother is already helping out. So I came over here and wanted to hang out with ya." I explained with a smile before examining her suit. "So what's up with the bunny suit? Is this about singing to the water or something?"

"Well...yeah." Apple Bloom nodded. "But...it's quite fun really."

"Well can I try?" I asked with a smile.

"S-sure...I see why not." Is Apple Bloom still feeling embarrassed and scared when Diamond Tiara mocked her about Granny Smith? 

"By the way, who's that?" I pointed at the brown stallion with the slicked mane.

"Oh that's Filthy Rich. He's been a business partner with the Apple Family for a long while and...Diamond Tiara's father..."

"Oh..." I said, feeling surprised about him being the school bully's father. "Well he's more of a nice pony than Diamond Tiara."

"Tell me about it." Apple Bloom rolled her eyes. "But I'm glad to see ya Carrie. I'm actually pretty excited for the Zap Apple Jam. I always wanted to do this, but I couldn't because I wasn't old enough."

"Well my big brother is ready to help out and such, and I'm ready to help out too! So what can I do?" I asked curiously.

"Don't ask me, ask my...Granny Smith." Apple Bloom sighed.

"Well...you can start by helping us by the groceries." Granny Smith came over and put a bonnet on Apple Bloom's head. "We're going to the market place."

"Huh? Oh hi Granny Smith." I greeted her before she put on the bonnet on her head. 

"Hi there dearie. What brings ya here?" Granny Smith smiled. 

"My big brother came over for some more training and now is helping out Applejack and Big Mac with the Zap Apple Jam. I came over to play with Apple Bloom, but now I wanna help out on the Zap Apple Jam." I said with a determined look. "So can I help?"

"Didn't I say so just now? Help us with buying some groceries. Now come on." Granny Smith said, tying a bonnet head on my head.

"Okay Granny Smith!" I nodded with a smile before we began heading out towards the Ponyville market. I still felt bad for Apple Bloom getting told by Diamond Tiara about being embarrassed around Granny Smith. I think she's a funny old lady of a pony, I like her and everypony likes her, right?



"Shake a leg there, slowpokes! We got a gaggle's worth of goods to gather before the harvest, you two! Come on!"

"Coming Granny Smith!" I nodded before seeing her began dancing and skipping around, causing some ponies to look over with confused and weirded out looks.

"Ugh..." Apple Bloom muttered, trying to cover her face with her bonnet. 

"Don't worry Apple Bloom. Just try to get used to it." I assured with a soft grin, causing Apple Bloom to smile before making out way to a shop filled with pots and pans. 

"Hmm..." Granny Smith examined them, narrowing her eyes a bit. "They don't make them like they used to."

"Really? What makes you say that?" I asked curiously.

"Because they don't have the same materials they made for it, little missy." Granny Smith replied before testing one of them out by biting into it with her teeth.

"Hey! You bite it, you buy it!" The store owner exclaimed. Granny Smith stopped biting and walked off, but not noticing that her teeth were still stuck on the pot.

"Oh! She forgotten her teeth!" I said, grabbing them and saw how much saliva were on it. "Eww..."

"Yep, shouldn't have touched it." Apple Bloom gagged.

"Agreed." I nodded before we began following Granny Smith over to the next shop as I carried her teeth. Wow, I never touched something like this and I don't think I'll ever again. Huh? I noticed a little bee on my nose, causing me to chuckle. "Why hello there little guy."

The bee buzzed away as I waved goodbye to the little fella. Ahh, he's so cute.

"AAH!" Apple Bloom gasped before I looked over and gasped in shock upon seeing Granny Smith holding a beehive while the bees stuck around her face, almost like a beard.

"Whoo! Why hello there, Bea, Beatrice, Beecher! Ooh, you've all been busy little bees, haven't you?" Granny Smith giggled before pouring some honey into one of the jars. Huh, that's quite amazing. I think my big brother can do that since he loves animals.

"Granny, isn't there a less...silly way to get the honey?" Apple Bloom pleaded before gasping as I turned around and saw Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon walking by as Apple Bloom hid behind a bee hive, hoping that they don't noticed her. I wouldn't mind as my big brother would always stand against meanies like them.

Granny Smith came over and picked Apple Bloom up as she said "Oh, isn't this just precious?"

"Pleases stop!" Apple Bloom pleaded, but Granny Smith didn't hear her as she continued "And it is perfect for making our zap apple jam!"

"Shh! Stop it, Granny!" Apple Bloom shouted, gaining the two fillies' attention before they laughed at her. I glared at them, angry at them mocking Apple Bloom and her own grandfather.

"Granny, please! Those ponies over there are watching me!" Apple Bloom pointed out.

"What? Are those fillies your friends?" Granny Smith asked curiously before waving at them and said "Hello, Half-pint's friends!"

"Hiii, Granny Smith! Hiii Half-pint!" Silver Spoon said in a mocking tone before she and Diamond Tiara laughed more loud, causing Apple Bloom to feel more embarrassed. I looked at her, feeling sad that they're mocking her before I glared at the bullies and shouted "Hey! Don't you girls have something else to do?!"

"Whatever. I don't see the point. Bye bye hairless freak and half-pint! AH AHA HA!" Diamond Tiara laughed before she and Silver Spoon took their leave.

"What dolls. Why, when I was little, ponies didn't come that purdy." Granny Smith commented.

"Purdy?" I asked, not familiar with that word.

"Are we done shopping, Granny? Cause I'd like to get back to the farm, fast!" Apple Bloom insisted, not wanting to be more embarrassed than she already is.

"All done, smellybellies!" Granny Smith nodded as she began skipping around merrily as she sang "Got my honey, gooey-ooh! Got my honey, iddley-hoo!"

Apple Bloom covered her face with her bonnet before turning to me and said "Thanks for at least trying to stand up for me, Carrie."

"Anytime Apple Bloom." I nodded. Though, I wished Diamond Tiara wouldn't have said that because now, Apple Bloom isn't feeling happy with being around Granny Smith than she usually do. I only wished-



W-what? Where am I? I then saw a vision of myself, having a machine on my head as I closed my eyes, and my expression looked like it was in deep thought.

"I...I want to stay loyal with my big brother and my new friends. Even if our memories are gone, we will...keep our promise to the people..."

What? What am I talking about?



"Ooh..." I muttered, rubbing my aching forehead.

"Carrie? What's wrong?" Apple Bloom asked, feeling concern for me as she peeked through her bonnet with a concerned look.

"O-oh! I'm fine. Just nothing." I assured but I knew that there was something wrong. Because that vision I saw...what was it? What did I say? Something about a promise? But to what?

"Hey look, sonny! We're back!" Granny Smith pointed out, seeing that we're back to Sweet Apple Acres already. What?! But how? How long did I have that vision just now?

As soon as we entered and headed back to the farmhouse, we encountered the two older Apple siblings and my big brother.

"Carrie! There you are!" Mason said, running towards my side before bending down and hugging me before looking at me with a stern look. "Where have you been young lady?"

"Oh I was with Apple Bloom and Granny Smith at the market place buying some stuff for the zap apple jam." I answered.

"The young lady is right!" Granny Smith nodded with a smile. "She and my little Half-pint were on their best behavior!"

"Y-yeah..." Apple Bloom nodded before taking off her bonnet and said "I have to go. Bye."

With that, she immediately took her leave and went out of the farmhouse, leaving us all, except Granny Smith, confused by her behavior.

"Wonder what was up with Apple Bloom?" Applejack questioned.

"Probably tired out. She's probably gonna need her rest if she wants to go and get ready for the zap apple jam." Granny Smith suggested. "Well, I best go and prepare for the next sign of the zap apple jam. Good luck."

With that, Granny Smith took her leave as Applejack asked "Carrie, did you know what's wrong with Apple Bloom?"

"Well...it's what Diamond Tiara told her." I explained, much to their worried. "Apparently, she made Apple Bloom have doubts and is feeling embarrassed of being around her grandmother."

"That little..." Mason growled before sighing and patting me on the head and said "Well I guess its understandable why she's embarrassed, but Granny Smith is a part of her family. So I'm sure this will blow all over."

"Eeyup!" Big Mac nodded.

"You really think so?" I asked curiously.

"I'm sure. Now we better get home and wake up early for the zap apple jam and for another day of your school." Mason said, pointing at the sun settling down.

"Yeah...see ya Applejack, Big Mac. Tell Apple Bloom goodnight." I said with a grin, which the two siblings nodded as Applejack said "You got it Carrie. See ya tomorrow."

With that, me and big brother took our leave and headed back to the home-ship. I just hope Apple Bloom doesn't take this too far, but then again...we take things too hard when we're trying to look for a talent.

"Well that wasn't much of a good work, but at least it was worth it." Mason sighed, stretching his back a little. 

"Yeah, but at least we had fun for the day." I chuckled before frowning a bit. "Well...half of the day."

"Something upsetting you, sis?" Mason asked.

"W-well...it's about Apple Bloom." I sighed. "She was feeling okay and happy with her grandmother, but now after Diamond Tiara teased her about being around her, she's feeling sad and miserable..."

"That filly always loves messing around other ponies." Mason said, making a stern look as he continued "Seems like she hasn't learned a lesson after all."

"But still...you don't think Granny Smith is...weird, right?" I asked in concern. "I mean, I like her and she's really funny, but I'm just worried..."

"Carrie, don't listen what she says. Besides, I'm sure Apple Bloom will realize the right choice and will try to accept who she and her grandmother is."

"Yeah...you're right!" I grinned happily as I saw our little squirrel friends waking up from their nap as they exited out of my big brother's scarf and jumped onto his head, gaining his attention.

"Well where have you two been?" Mason chuckled before he heard their stomachs rumbling. "Well don't worry you two, we're almost home."

"Yep! I promise that we'll give ya some acorns to enjoy!" I added with a grin as the two squirrels were overjoyed to eat some delicious snacks. You know, I can't be worried about this, I know that Apple Bloom will learn to accept Granny Smith. I mean, what could go wrong?



The Next Day
It was another day for me to go to the Ponyville School. Big brother headed back to Sweet Apple Acres to continue his help with the Apple family. Ren and Kodiak went over to Fluttershy's cottage to hang out with his special somepony, Kaede and her pet cat, Rosy, headed over to Carousel Boutique to prepare more fashion clothesline with Rarity while Jamie went over to another study session with Twilight and Spike. 

Everyone is already enjoying their time, even me. Well...almost.

"And, by capturing the whole sale market, purchasing in bulk and slashing all prices, we undermine every other gift market in town, and that's how Rich's Barnyard Bargains became the cornerstone of retail in Ponyville." Filthy Rich finished with his explanation of his family's ancestry as I clapped for him for that story, along with Diamond Tiara. Guess she's too proud and respects her father like how I respect my older brother.

My other classmates, including my friends, were either asleep or bored by the story.

"Why thank you Mr. Filthy-" Ms. Cheerilee stopped upon seeing the glare she gotten from Filthy Rich. "I-I mean, Mr. Rich. What a wonderful day of sharing! And thank you for being a part of Family Appreciation Day!"

Filthy Rich nodded before taking his graph and left the classroom as Mr. Cheerilee walked over to her desk and grabbed her check-list. "Now let's see, who will be bringing a family member for next Monday's Family Appreciation day. Um...Oh! Apple Bloom! Carrie Hunter!"

"Oh don't worry Ms. Cheerilee! My big brother will gladly come to Family Appreciation Day!" I said with a grin.

"That's quite nice of you, Carrie. I'm sure your older brother will be joyed to come over to Family Appreciation Day." Ms. Cheerilee smiled.

"But Miss Cheerilee" Apple Bloom called. "Next Monday is zap apple harvest day, and Applejack and Big Macintosh will be too busy to come and speak."

"Well, is there anypony else in your family that could come?" Ms. Cheerilee asked.

"But Apple Bloom, you could always ask Granny Smith. She isn't harvesting the zap apple jams." I pointed out, only to receive a glare from her.

"Why that's a great idea Carrie!" Diamond Tiara snickered wickedly. "We should all meet her next Monday, don't you agree Ms. Cheerilee?"

"An excellent suggestion, Carrie and Diamond Tiara." Ms. Cheerilee nodded in agreement. "Apple Bloom, you shall bring in Granny Smith on Monday!"

"B-but-" Before Apple Bloom could protest, the school bell rang, meaning that class was over for the weekend. 

"Have a great weekend, everypony!" Ms. Cheerilee stated as everypony began taking their leave. I then noticed Diamond Tiara giving me a sly and evil look before taking her leave. Did I say something wrong?

"Are you kidding Carrie?!" Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Granny Smith for Family Appreciation Day?! I'll be the laughingstock of Ponyville!"

She slammed her head onto desk, causing me to look at her with worried and confusion.

"But Apple Bloom...I thought you cared about Granny Smith?" I asked.

"I do, but after what Diamond Tiara told me yesterday about everything describing Granny Smith, she was right. I'm just gonna be humiliated..." Apple Bloom sighed while I looked at her shock. Doesn't...she care about who she is?

"But Apple Bloom! She's your grandmother! If she heard something like that, do you how heartbroken she would be!" I exclaimed, causing Apple Bloom to realize that.

"You're right...I have to get either Applejack and Big Mac to come to Family Appreciation Day!" Apple Bloom exclaimed before she got out of her desk, along with me as we exited the class.

"But you do realize that they're busy!" Carrie exclaimed.

"So is your brother." Apple Bloom pointed out.

"But even without him, he'll totally make it! I know he can!" I assured with a grin. "I mean, even without him, Applejack and Big Mac can handle it. They are the strongest ponies I know so far!"

"Good point." Apple Bloom chuckled with a smile. "Well either way, I still think about asking them. Surely they'll agree to do it."

I guess we'll find out.



"I'm sorry, Apple Bloom, but I told ya we can't take a break from the harvest come to your school."

Well at least we gave it a try.

After school, me and Apple Bloom came over back to Sweet Apple Acres, where we saw Applejack, Big Mac, and Mason already watering the zap apple trees, with the trees full of violet colored leaves. 

"And I'll come to your little show and tell, Carrie." Mason smiled.

"Thanks big brother." Carrie smiled.

"But you have to come!" Apple Bloom pleaded with her sister, who retorted "I'm sorry Apple Bloom, but you know what'll happen when the zap apple appears after the fifth day?"

"I know...after the fifth day, the zap apples disappear..." Apple Bloom sighed sadly.

"They'll disappear?" Mason questioned.

"Yeah, they're sure are a mystery not even I can figure out. Ain't that Big Mac?"

"Eeyup." Big Macintosh nodded in agreement. Suddenly, the wind started blowing hard as we saw the clouds forming together in a big dark cloud and soon, thousands of crows soon appeared and began flying around the trees while they cawed and flapped around.

"Look! The third sign!" We turned around to see Granny Smith pulling Applejack and Apple Bloom in for a hug as she exclaimed "Right on time, hot diggity!"

The zap apples trees soon started crackling with electricity like before as they started to bloom in a beautiful electric blue blossoms as the clouds started to part.

"Wow!" We all shouted, marveled by that. That was so cool!

"Huh...I'll admit, that was quite impressive." Mason smiled.

"Alright, you lazy daisies, move yer caboose!" Granny Smith exclaimed, pushing the two girls as the others began fixing up with the zap apple harvest.

"I'm sorry, Apple Bloom, but don't you fret. Granny Smith's got no shortage of entertaining stories to tell." Applejack assured with a grin before taking her leave.

"She's right. Just believe in your grandmother." Mason assured with a soft grin before he and the others took their leave, leaving me and Apple Bloom alone.

"I know. That's what I'm worried about..." Apple Bloom sighed while I looked at her in concern. Apple Bloom...please drop all this worrying and accept Granny Smith. I know she won't THAT bad.



Later
Okay, maybe she is taking this too far. Soon, she called a Cutie-Mark Crusaders meeting and soon, the girls learned about Apple Bloom's problem.

"I'll be embarrassed..." Apple Bloom ranted, pacing back and forth around the clubhouse as she continued "Shamed, disgraced, mortified, humilate-"

Sweetie Belle stopped her by putting a hoof on her mouth while Scootaloo commented "What are you, a dictionary?"

"I think she's more of a thesaurus base on everything she's describing of her current situation." I suggested.

"Ignore them." Sweetie Belle assisted as she turned to Apple Bloom with a soft smile and said "We're gonna help you!"

"After all, we are the Cutie-Mark Crusaders." Scootaloo assured.

"They're right!" I nodded with a smile. "We'll figure out a way! We always do like Ren and the others! Maybe if we-"

"But how? Ugh! All this worrying is making me sick!" Apple Bloom sighed, cutting me off.

"Sick?" Sweetie Belle wondered. At that moment, Scootaloo hopped and accidentally bumped her head onto a hanging lamp, somehow turning it on and giving her that 'idea effect' that I've seen on cartoons before. "That's it! Come on!"

"W-wha?!" Apple Bloom gasped before being dragged off by her friends. I only watched and sighed sadly before following after them. Why do I have a bad feeling about this?

I soon walked out of the clubhouse and headed back to the farmhouse since the girls seemed to be heading there. As I walked in, I formed a confused look upon seeing...a weird scene.

"A-ten-hut!" Granny Smith shouted, glaring at the empty jars like she was a general or something. She even had a general's hat on her head just to prove that. "Now listen here, troops! Now I don't want no whining or crying or cracking pressure! Do I make myself clear?!"

Suddenly, she accidentally knocked one over and dropped on the floor, breaking it into pieces. However, she wasn't bothered by it.

"Court-martialed!" Granny Smith screeched before picking the pieces up in a dustpan she found over by the corner and throwing them away in a nearby trash can.

"Tee-hee!" I giggled, attracting Granny Smith's attention. "Oh sorry for eavesdropping, Granny Smith!"

"That's okay dearie! I got plenty of more where that came from!" Granny Smith assured, ruffling my hair a bit.

I laughed at her playing with my hair as I said "Alright! Ah ha! Stop that! That tickles!"

"Sorry about that." Granny Smith apologized with a light chuckle. "So what brings ya here?"

"Well..." Before I could say anything else, we heard something coming upstairs, much to our confusion.

"Now what in the hayseeds is going in there?" Granny Smith wondered before walking upstairs with me following after her. As soon as we arrived to Apple Bloom's room, we came and saw her on the bed, but the weirdest and strangest part was that her face was green and had a thermometer on her mouth, which showed it was like...off the charts. What are they trying to pull now?

"Oh...Granny Smith. We were just about to come to get you." Scootaloo said with a nervous smile.

"Apple Bloom's sick!" Sweetie Belle added. "Looks like she might have to stay home all week!" 

I raised a brow at them before realizing that they must've planned this. They must've faked Apple Bloom getting sick so that she won't be able to go to the Family Appreciation Day with Granny Smith.

Granny Smith walked over and took the thermometer out of Apple Bloom's mouth as Sweetie Belle pulled off a mischevious smile and Scootaloo smirked. 

Granny Smith then touched Apple Bloom's forehead before smiling and said "Ooh! Perfect as a Piccadilly pear!"

With that, she took her leave while I looked at them with concern, seeing how they were trying to pull this off.

"Now what?" Apple Bloom wondered with a sadden look, covering her face with her blanket.

"Maybe you should just let Granny Smith go to the Family Appreciation Day?" I suggested with a smile. 

"No! I can't! Then I'll be the laughing stock of the school, Carrie!" Apple Bloom yelled, causing me to frown.

"B-but still-"

"I'm sorry Carrie, but I can't!" Apple Bloom shouted. "I love Granny Smith, but I just can't do it! Come on Crusaders, let's head back to the clubhouse."

"You girls go on without me...I need some time to think..." I sighed before walking out of her room and outside of the farmhouse as I continued to walk around the place till I arrived to the fields, where I saw the blue electric blossoms from before. I sighed heavily and wonder on what can I do to help out Apple Bloom? I mean, she should be happy with her grandmother speaking out in class. All thanks to Diamond Tiara...why can I do?

"Carrie?" Huh? I turned around to see my big brother coming over, with his sweater off and showing off wearing his grey undershirt and has some good muscles. "What are you doing here?"

"Oh hi big brother...just thinking about things..." I sighed, looking over at one of the zap apple trees.

"Come on, it's me. You can tell me." Mason put his hand on my shoulder with an assuring smile.

"Well...it's Apple Bloom. Apparently, she's more worried about Granny Smith attending the Family Appreciation Day thing, but she won't allow it because it'll embarrass due to her...silly ways."

"So that's why she kept begging Applejack and Big Mac to come with her." Mason said, realizing it now. "Though, I understand if Granny Smith is...kooky. But she's family to her and she should respect her for who she is."

"Yeah...if only she would understand it." I sighed before my big brother ruffled my hair up, causing me to laugh and looked at him with a smile as he grinned back at me.

Soon, we noticed something in the sky falling down as we saw...

"Shooting stars!" I gasped in awe as many shooting stars came falling down as the blossoms from the zap apple trees began bursting into blue petals, revealing the trees to now be covered in gray apples.

"This must be the fourth sign." Mason said in surprise. "I should hurry and tell Applejack and Big Mac about this. You should head back home and get ready for bed. I'll be back home." He kissed me on the forehead, causing me to giggle before we parted ways. Oh well, I'll at least try to find a way to get her to allow Granny Smith to come to the school for Family Appreciation Day. Although....

"AHHHH!" I looked at the sky to see some familiar friends of mine being launched into the sky and landing somewhere in the farmhouse. I immediately rushed over to the scene and saw the Crusaders in a pig pen, covered in mud.

"What happened?" I asked.

"Uhh...nothing?" Sweetie Belle answered with a sheepish smile before I noticed her mane frazzled.

"Ummm...did you tried picking those zap apples the moment they appeared?" I asked with a raised brow.

"Uhh...maybe?" Scootaloo shrugged, causing me to sigh.

"Can't you girls at least try to allow Granny Smith to come with ya, please?" I begged, but Apple Bloom shook her head and said "No thank you Carrie! I cannot be humiliated by the other ponies!"

"So is not being humiliated more important than friends and family?" I asked, feeling heartbroken.

"N-no! That's not what I meant Carrie!" Apple Bloom insisted.

"It is! I...I just don't understand why are you having doubts with her. I think Granny Smith is a great pony and I wished you understand that." With that, I took my leave as my friends were left, stunned in shock upon seeing me acting up like this. I wished Apple Bloom would've ignored what Diamond Tiara said and won't try anymore with these crazy attempts. If only there was a way I can make her stop doing this...



The Next Day
"Carrie, it's time to wake up." Ugh....Huh? Oh it's Sunday already? Time sure flies really by. I soon got up from bed and saw my big brother up and wearing his clothes. "Come on, we're going back to Sweet Apple Acres for the zap apple jam."

"Okay..." I let out a yawn before I got up and got out of my Pajamas before putting on my regular clothing. We soon descended downstairs and encountered everyone else down there with Kaede and Ren making breakfast. Kaede seemed to be making some omelettes while Ren was making some pancakes.

"Oh hey guys, what's up?" Ren greeted us. "Morning!"

"Good morning, you guys." Mason smiled.

"Hi!" I greeted them with a wave. 

"We're almost done with breakfast, so it shouldn't take long." Kaede added with a smile before finishing up her omelette up and placing it on one of the paper plates. Ren and Kaede soon placed down our breakfast down while the former placed pancakes onto Kodi's bowl, much to his joy.

"Thanks Ren!" Kodi barked.

"Anytime boy." Ren winked before petting him on the head.


"Thank you for making breakfast for us." Mason said before we sat down on the dining table. "Say thank you Carrie."

"Oh!...Thank you." I nodded with a soft smile.

"Don't mention it. We thought we could make breakfast. Well most of me since Ren doesn't know how to make anything else except pancakes." Kaede sighed.

"Hey!" Ren shouted in offense. "I don't know how to else any dishes like you and Mason!

"Hmm...fair point." Kaede shrugged.

"Maybe next time, I can teach you how to cook Ren." Mason offered, much to Ren's delight.

"Oh thanks dude." Ren smiled.

"More please!" Kodi called, already finishing his bowl, much to Ren's surprise.

"Already?!" Ren exclaimed.

I giggled upon seeing Kodi still getting hungry again before I noticed that we're missing one person else. 

"Hey, where's Jamie?" I asked curiously.

"Oh, he's resting up at Twilight's home. He was reading books too late and past out from being restless." Kaede answered. 

"Oh..." I said before taking a bite of my pancake, seeing how good it taste. "Mmm...so good. You made this Ren?"

"Well my mom taught me how to cook, along with my sister." Ren explained with a light chuckle. "Ahh, good times..."

"Yeah...I wonder how's everyone else is doing back home." I sighed while Mason was in some deep thought, which I noticed. "Something the matter big brother?"

"Oh...nothing. Just thinking home, that's all." Mason assured with a light chuckle, but I knew he couldn't fool me. He's probably thinking of Elena, and I think he's extremely worried about not being there for her, but just hiding it deep in his heart. "Well anyway, its best if I get going."

"Back to Sweet Apple Acres?" Ren asked curiously.

"Yeah, the four signs already appeared over the weekend, so I think the fifth and last sign should come today." Mason explained.

"You know, you've been going there a lot." Kaede stated. 

"Well of course, for training that is." Mason replied.

"Well why not work there?" Kodi suggested, much to Mason's surprise. "You seemed to pretty much going there."

"What? That's ridiculous...Well I mean...umm..."

"Why not big brother?" I asked curiously. "I mean, Ren and Kaede have jobs here in Equestria, so why not work at the farm? It might help you in your training at least."

Mason looked at me for a while before sighing and shaking his head. "Well...seems like all of you are voting against me. Alright, I guess I'll ask Applejack next time. Right now, let's go over to Sweet Apple Acres for the zap apple jam. I'm planning on buying some when the zap apple appears and when we make it."

"Bring some back to us, please." Ren insisted. "I do want to see what's so good about it."

"Whatever." Mason shrugged before turning to me and said "Carrie, let's go."

"Oh, okay." I nodded before we headed out and said our goodbyes to our friends before heading back to the farm.

As we continued to walk along the path, I sighed as I remember what I told Apple Bloom yesterday...I just hope I didn't hurt her or the others' feelings...

"Something in your mind, sis?" I looked over at my brother, who gazed at me with a curious look. 

"Well..."

"Let me guess: Apple Bloom, eh?" Well, at least he figured that one out. "Sis, it's okay. Apple Bloom is just going through...a phase."

"But...she won't let Granny Smith come to school tomorrow. I'm just worried that if Granny Smith found out about how Apple Bloom feels about her now, she might ending up getting her feelings hurt." I said with a sad look. 

"It's true...but I'm sure she won't try anything too hard. I mean, how can three fillies cause any trouble?" Mason shrugged.

"But...you do realize that Apple Bloom once gotten the Cutie Pox?" I pointed out, which made Mason widened his eyes upon remembering that.

"Right...." Mason sighed before face-palming himself and said "Oh my god, I'm just now realizing this."

It's alright big brother, I don't blame you. As soon as we walked in, we accidentally bumped into somepony.

"OOF!" We said in unison as we fell down on the ground. I rubbed my aching head before looking up to see who we bumped into.

"Ms. Cheerilee?" I asked in confusion as she slowly got up before Mason helped her get back on her own four hooves.

"Oh hi Carrie, I didn't see you nor your brother here." Ms. Cheerilee said before turning to my brother and said "Thank you."

"Anytime." Mason nodded before asking "So what brings you here? If you're here for the zap apple jam, then you're quite early."

"Oh no, I was called in by Apple Bloom." Me and Mason looked at each other in confusion as we turned back to Ms. Cheerilee as my big brother asked "Apple Bloom called you?"

“Why yes, she came to me early today and said that Granny Smith needed to talk to me and it was very important. But when I got there, I saw her through the window and…it was a weird sight.” 

“What do you mean a ‘weird sight’? Isn’t Granny Smith always weird in her own ways?” I nudged my brother, feeling a little upset that he would call her weird.

“Well true, but for some reason, she told me she couldn’t come to Family Appreciation Day tomorrow. I understood why and decided to take my leave until I bumped into her again, and as I told her we could reschedule, she seemed to have forgotten about our conversation and said that she’ll be able to come on Monday. I just don’t know what was up with that.”

“Yeah…” Mason nodded before rubbing his chin in thought. “Well…I gotta go help my friends with the zap apple jam. I’ll see you tomorrow on Family Appreciation Day.” Mason smiled before saying “I’m actually looking forward to it.”

“Why thank you Mason.” Ms. Cheerilee nodded. “Well anyway, I better get going. See ya you two.”

“Bye!” We waved goodbye to her as she was out of sight as Mason made a serious and stern look and said “Carrie…please go inside of the farmhouse and wait for me.”
I froze upon seeing him like this. The only time I ever seen like this is when someone did something too far.

“O-Okay big brother!” I nodded with a smile before immediately running towards the farmhouse and waited out for him to finish with my friends. Oh, are they in trouble…



Mason’s POV

Oh that filly really is gonna be in a lot of trouble. As I searched frantically for her, I looked over at the clubhouse and saw the crusaders with Scootaloo dressing up like a telegram deliverer.

“I sure hope this works…!” Apple Bloom said as I narrowed my eyes through the clubhouse’s window and said “Hope what works if I might ask?”

The crusaders froze before slowly turning towards me as I gave them a stern look, much to their shock.

“Oh…hey there Mason.” Apple Bloom giggled nervously. “We were just preparing…for a play! Yeah!”

I continued to glare at her angrily as she saw that I wasn’t falling for it. 

“Farmhouse. Now.” I said, narrowing my eyes angrily at her before she gulped and nodded as she immediately walked out of the clubhouse and walked over to the farmhouse, ready to take on any punishment I’m about to dish out on her.

As soon as I brought her inside, we found Carrie sitting down on the rocking chair as Apple Bloom sighed heavily and said “You told him, didn’t you?”

“Yeah, but for your own good.” Carrie said.

“Now then…” I turned to Apple Bloom with a stern gaze and said “Do you mind telling me why do you keep trying to make Granny Smith not want to go to the Family Appreciation Day?”

“W-well…” Apple Bloom glanced away nervously as sweat began to form around her body until she sighed and decided to talk. “The truth is…It’s about what Diamond Tiara said about me. She told me that my grandmother is an embarrassment to everypony in town due to how she forget things, how weird she is, and such. It made me…feel doubtful of her. I didn’t want to hurt her feelings but I also didn’t want to be the laughing stock of the school, or even Ponyville.”

“Apple Bloom…” I shook my head and said “Is being popular more important than your own family? You’re lucky to have a family that is so caring, loving, and supportive to you. You even have a wonderful grandmother who is still around with ya. See, me and Carrie were abandoned by our parents when they left each other and us as well.”

Apple Bloom looked at me in shock before turning to Carrie, who silently nodded before glancing away sadly. 

“I met my grandmother a few times in my life, but she past away from old age. Carrie never gotten the chance to meet her.” I said, feeling a bit sadden. “Carrie was so happy to make friends with you and the other crusaders in this world. She’s even more happy that you have such a wonderful family and sometimes envies you for having such a wonderful grandmother.”

Apple Bloom felt stumped upon hearing that as she turned to Carrie, who didn’t bother to gaze at her as she said “I-Is…that true Carrie?”

“…Yeah. Whenever I see you hanging out with either Applejack, Big Mac, or Granny Smith, it makes me feel glad that I have Mason, but not any other family members.” Carrie said with a sad smile. “I never knew much about my parents, my grandparents or any relatives of mine. Mason was the only family I had left until we were brought in by Elena and her family, and I thought of them as family. I just...when I saw you kept scheming on not letting Granny Smith going over to the Family Appreciation Day, I felt so upset you wouldn't let her come all because of what Diamond Tiara told ya.”

Apple Bloom became shocked, feeling guilty that she didn't understand her feelings at all. 

"I-I'm so sorry Carrie!" Apple Bloom apologized. "I...I was just...I was just trying not to be embarrassed. But instead, I ended up making myself a fool."

"Apple Bloom..." I bent down and hugged her and my sister. "No matter how embarrassed, sad, or angry by something, you'll always have your family and they'll always be by your side."

Apple Bloom smiled brightly at me before hugging me and said "Thanks Mason!"

"Anytime." I nodded as Apple Bloom turned to Carrie and said "And I'm sorry for not listening and taking your suggestion about letting Granny Smith come to school tomorrow."

Carrie chuckled with a smile before replying "It's okay, and sorry if I told Mason about your schemes."

"Heh heh...it's okay." Apple Bloom assured with a grin.

"So Apple Bloom..." I looked at her with a soft smile. "Are you gonna let Granny Smith go to school tomorrow for Family Appreciation Day or not?"

Apple Bloom thought for a while before forming a grin and replied "Yep! I'll do it! Besides, I'll have my friends and family with me!"

Me and Carrie looked at each other and smiled happily to see her accept that.

"That's what I want to hear!" Carrie said happily. Suddenly, we felt the wind breeze through the farmhouse as we immediately raced outside and saw the dark clouds coming around again and soon revealed itself into a bright rainbow.

"Ooh!" Carrie and Apple Bloom said in amazement while I smiled at their awe expressions. Soon, the zap apple trees once again crackled with electricity and the zap apples streaked into rainbows of color as rainbow beams bridged between each and every tree, turning every single zap apple into beautiful rainbow color.

"Impressive..." I smiled, feeling awed by that. You know, I can see why these Zap Apple Jams are quite great.

"The zap apple harvest has begun!" Applejack came racing down through the fields, joyed to see them come on.

"And tomorrow we will be making up some zap apple jam!" Granny Smith added, coming out of the barn with Big Mac. Apple Bloom looked at her grandmother with a frown before forming a grin. Seems like she's ready for tomorrow. Trust me, I know that Granny Smith won't embarrassed her...or less.



The Next Day
"Come on big brother! We're gonna be late!" 

"I-I'm coming Carrie! Don't need to pull me by the scarf!" 

Seriously, she gets way too excited for this! Today was Family Appreciation Day as we saw the school off a distance. Like Applejack stated, she and her brother have to stay behind to harvest the zap apples before they disappear for good. I'm glad that Apple Bloom finally accepts to listen what her grandmother is ready to say whatever she's about to say to her classmates. 

We soon arrived to the school, seeing everypony except for Apple Bloom and Granny Smith. 

"Carrie! You're here!" Scootaloo greeted with a smile. 

"Hi Mason!" Sweetie Belle waved at me.

"Hey there you two." I waved at her with a soft smile.  Soon, the other fillies looked at me in amazement, probably because they never saw me up close as a tall human. I know that they met Carrie, but never a human this tall.

"So glad that you're here Mason." Ms. Cheerilee walked into the classroom, happy to see my big brother here. "Class is almost about to begin, so its best if you prepare for your introduction."

"Why yes Ms. Cheerilee." I nodded with a smile. "By the way, if I might ask, where is Apple Bloom? I was hoping she would be here with her grandmother."

"Yes, so was I. I wonder where that filly went." Ms. Cheerilee wondered.

"Maybe she decided to skip out because of her Granny Smith?" Diamond Tiara suggested, snickering at that thought. Carrie glared at her, like she was almost ready to pounce at her until I looked at her and said "Please calm down Carrie and don't let her get in the way. Just relax..."

"Y-yeah...big brother." Carrie nodded, smiling sheepishly at me. 

"We're here!" Well, it's about time. Apple Bloom soon came in, along with her grandmother.

"Howdy, y'all! I'm as happy as a pig in a fresh mudpile to be here!" Granny Smith greeted with a friendly smile.

"Hi Granny Smith!" Carrie waved at her happily before turning to Apple Bloom and said "Wow! I knew you could bring her here Apple Bloom!"

"Heh heh, thanks Carrie. After all, I wouldn't break a promise." Apple Bloom winked.

"Well either way, we're glad that you showed up." Mason smiled. 

"Yeah, we sure are!" Diamond Tiara snickered, along with Silver Spoon but they immediately shut up upon seeing my darkened glare.

"Anyway..." I turned back to them with a soft smile and said "We're so glad to finally meet you. If you want, you can go first."

"Nonsense, you should." Granny Smith assured. "So why not go ahead while I try to get ready? My hips weren't what they used to be."

"Understand." I bowed with a smile.

"No need to bow, I ain't royalty!" 

"But even so, I have to respectful towards the elderly. That's what I was taught back then." I said.

"Well I'll be tooting!" Granny Smith chuckled before turning to her granddaughter and said "Well I'll be Apple Bloom, you sure made friends with a gentle-pony."

"Heh heh, thanks Granny Smith." Apple Bloom chuckled with a soft smile, not showing any signs of embarrassment it seems. I'm proud of her.

"Now then, shall we prepared to tell us your stories?" Ms. Cheerilee asked curiously as she sat down on her desk as I nodded and stepped forward as both Apple Bloom and Carrie sat down on their respective seats while Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon looked at them with mischevious smiles while I shook my head and sighed before clearing my throat as I was about to tell my story. I won't tell them much about me and Carrie's childhood on when we were abandoned, just the good parts. That way, the class won't feel bad for us.

"Hello everyone, I am Mason Hunter, Carrie Hunter's older sibling." I formerly greeted them. "You see, you already know about our kind, but you never knew much about our past. See, me and Carrie belong to a rich family back in our world. They're known as the Ortega Family, a nice and caring wealthy family who always help so many innocent people in their kingdom."

Everyone felt excited upon hearing that as they all glanced at Carrie, probably because Carrie never told them about it, which is understandable.

"Me and Carrie live with them for several years. Carrie was taught a lot by our family's tutors, maids, butlers, and our own adoptive parents from her entire life before coming here to your school."

"So...Carrie is royalty?" One of the fillies asked curiously.

"Well yes." I nodded with a smile.

"But what about you?" Another one asked me.

"Well...you may say I was raised by royalty, but you see, I was trained to become a bodyguard." I explained, causing the class to look at me in shock, even Ms. Cheerilee. "You see, I was trained for it in order to become a personal bodyguard for Miss Elena Ortega. She was our foster mom and dad's daughter."

"What was she like?" Sweetie Belle asked curiously. I blushed a bit and hid my smile with my scarf as I replied "Well...she was kind, smart, beautiful, and...well...."

"She was also my big brother's lover!" Carrie answered, much to the class's awe.

"C-Carrie!" I exclaimed, blushing madly.

"Well it's the truth!" Carrie smiled. "Besides, you don't have to be embarrassed about telling everyone about it."

Speaks for yourself.

"Anyway..." I cleared my throat before turning to the class and continued on with my story. "It's true that I've dated a royal heir to the throne, but I am simply just a normal boy. Nothing much..."

"Nothing much?! But you're a part of the royal family in your world and dating a princess?! Is that putting that you're a normal boy?!" Scootaloo exclaimed, which the others murmured in agreement.

"Well...You're right about that, I guess." I sighed before forming a smile. "But still, I rather be treated like a normal person, even Elena wishes to be normal as well because she wishes to explore more of the outside world. Although, I promised her that I'll always guide people to the right path, like she has to me and my little sister. I've been protecting them for quite a long time and I'm glad to see my sister so happy and made so many friends."

Soon, everypony began clapping their hooves, excited to hear the end of the story. 

"A well deserved presentation Mr. Hunter." Ms. Cheerilee smiled. "That was a beautiful story."

"Thank you." I bowed with a soft smile.

"Hey wait, I heard you mention 'adoptive parents'." Silver Spoon pointed out. "How were you and Carrie adopted by a bunch of royals?"

"That's...another time." I assured with a grin. "Trust me, you'll find out someday." I assured with a grin.

"Ahh..." Everypony sighed while Carrie continued to clap for me and smiled happily at me.

"Good story big brother!" Carrie cheered, causing me to smile softly at her. 

"Thanks sis." I nodded.

"Pfft! Whatever! He's absolutely lying!" Diamond Tiara accused. "He probably made that up to impress us all."

"Really? You want proof?" I asked before taking my locket off my neck and opened it up to them, revealing the picture. "This locket was given to me from our last anniversary. We've been together for such a long time, and we've been so...close with each other."

Soon, my two animals friends, Nate and Maddy came out of my scarf and nuzzled my cheeks, causing me to grin at them. "Thanks you two." I petted them on the head, which made everypony let out an 'Aww' at my romance with Elena while Diamond Tiara simply scoffed at me. Oh grow up...

"Now then..." Ms. Cheerilee cleared her throat before I walked out of the way and leaned against the wall, allowing Granny Smith to take the stand. "Ms. Granny Smith? Are you ready to tell them your story?"

"Why yes! Thank you!" Granny Smith nodded with a smile.

"I can't wait to hear Granny Smith's presentation." Diamond Tiara made a mischievous smile and turned to Apple Bloom and whispered "If she can remember any of it."

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon giggled while Apple Bloom and Carrie looked at each other and rolled their eyes at them. Looks like Apple Bloom has full confidence on this one on the bag.

Soon, Granny Smith cleared her throat before taking out a map, which showed the entire continent of Equestria.

"Long ago, when I was a little pony, things were very different here in Ponyville. Cause there was no Ponyville! That's right, my little ponies. Me and my family were pilgrim pony folk, back when I was a little filly. Oh, we ventured far and wide, collecting new seeds and sellin' the old. But my pa was the finest seed collector in all of Equestria. Then, one day, the Smith family found themselves in the most brilliant, most grand, most magnificent of all cities. A place called... Canterlot. Well, I bet your hooves to hindquarters I had never seen anything like it before nor since. And as if the beauty of that city wasn't enough, suddenly, she appeared. Princess Celestia, the most regal of all ponies. When lo and behold, she stopped to look at my pa's seed collection. Then Princess Celestia saw that we were plumb-tuckered and hankerin' to find our forever home. And bein' a royal Princess and all, she knew exactly the place for us to lay down our stakes. My pa gave the Princess a mighty thanks. We quickly found that land near the Everfree Forest, and we built our first home. Next, we planted our first orchards. But an orchard don't grow overnight, and we were getting mighty short on food. Now mind you, we were cautioned about the forest, and we knew that it was not fit to enter."

"But I knew there was critters livin' there. There must be somethin' to eat. It was dark and musty, and I won't lie, it was scary. But every inch was covered in plant life, and before I knew it, wasn't I standin' in front of the most incredible apple trees! I had never seen anything that bore this kind of colorful fruit! Oh I started picking apples quick as a whip!"

" I turned, and there before me stood the timberwolves! I've never run so fast in my life. I did the only thing I could think of. My pa and I planted those special apple seeds, and before our eyes they grew like wildfire. Why, we had full grown trees faster than you could say 'lickety split'. Then each year, I paid close attention to the signs of the zap apples' special harvesting times. How the weather affects the Everfree Forest, how the timberwolves howl when the zap apples first start growing, and how they zapped away if you didn't pick 'em all in one day! And the fruits of our labor were the best fruit we ever tasted. Soon enough I was mixing up batches of zap apple jam. Just like harvestin' the zap apples had its special rules, so did makin' zap apple jam. I learned that you gotta be extra friendly with the bees, otherwise their honey won't taste rightly sweet to mix in with the zap apples. Who'd'a thought that glass jars needed talkin' to? Or that zap apples like pink polka dots? But magic is as magic does. Just funny that way. Then ponies started comin' to our farm from far and wide just to get a taste of my zap apple jam. Some of them decided to stay, like Stinkin' Rich, Diamond Tiara's great grandfather. Matter of fact, the first thing he ever sold was my zap apple jam."

"And before we knew it, we had ourselves a nice little town, bustling with all kinds of ponies. And that is how Ponyville was founded."

.....What...the...actual...heck?

"So wait...does that mean?" Carrie looked at Granny Smith in shock as she exclaimed "You discovered Ponyville?!"

"And apparently, one of its founders." I added, showing off my surprised expression. I cannot believe it! When she was gonna give off a presentation about her family, I did not anticipate for this! Just how old is this mare?!

"Well...yes. I did say that, didn't I?" Granny Smith questioned and soon enough, all the foals in the room started clapping, overjoyed upon hearing that story. "Oh, thank you kindly, little ponies. Oh, now now, let's settle down."

"So if it weren't for you and the zap apples, Ponyville wouldn't even exist?!" Scootaloo exclaimed.

"Darn tooting, little filly!" Granny Smith nodded with a small smug grin.

"And..." Apple Bloom turned to Diamond Tiara with a smile and said "If it weren't for my Granny Smith, your daddy wouldn't have Barnyard Bargains!"

Everyone nodded in agreement, realizing that part was right too.

"It's true." Carrie nodded.

"B-but!" Diamond Tiara sputtered in shock before I noticed Granny Smith licking the chalk board, not caring at all. Well, she's a little kooky, but a great old mare. "But she's just a...kooky old lady!"

Everypony gasped as I glared at her and was about to say something until Apple Bloom and Carrie stepped in with the former shouting "She is not a kooky old lady! She is the most amazing pony in all of Ponyville!"

"And a great grandmother to my friend, Apple Bloom! You should be thankful of her! Without her and her family, she wouldn't have discovered those zap apples and gave them to your great grandfather in the first place, meaning that you wouldn't been born at all!" Carrie pointed out, causing me to smirk at her.

"B-but! GRRR!" Diamond Tiara growled angrily.

"I have a feeling that your father won't like when he discovers about what he said to his business partner, right?" I questioned with a raised brow, with Ms. Cheerilee nodded in agreement as she sternly gaze at Diamond Tiara and said "Absolutely! I'll be sure to visit Mr. Rich later today about what she said about Granny Smith."

Diamond Tiara jaw-dropped in shock, unable to process what just happened.

"Ahh, thanks you dearies." Granny Smith smiled, hugging both Apple Bloom and Carrie.

"Hey, anything for a friend." Carrie smiled. "And I'm glad that Apple Bloom lives with a great family."

"Same here, Carrie. Same here." Apple Bloom smiled, hugging her grandmother tight. I walked over with a smile and said "I gotta say Granny Smith, I...wasn't expecting to hear all that. If I may ask, how old are you?"

"That's a secret I'll never tell." Granny Smith winked. "Besides, it's very rude to ask an old mare of their age."

"R-right...sorry." I apologized with a sweat-drop. "But you know, it's quite amazing that your one of the founders of Equestria."

"Yep! I'll always remember it by heart. I even have a photo from the day back when Ponyville was starting out as a little village. See?" Granny Smith pulled out a small photo, which revealed to be a photo that has been really outdated due to some scratch marks on the photo, but the whole picture was quite good and it showed Granny Smith in her younger days, along with some ponies that seems to be her family. Hmm...I bet she really misses them, but I know that they'll always still be watching her from the heart.

"You fellas can take it if ya want?" Granny Smith said, surprising both me and Carrie.

"Are you sure?" I asked incredulous.

"Yes, I'll always remember my family in my small beating heart." Granny Smith assured. She then gave me the photo as I looked upon it before forming a grin and said "Oh...thank you."

"Anytime young man." Granny Smith smiled. "Now move your caboose! I gotta go and check up on the zap apple jam."

"Why yes, thank you and goodbye." I bid farewell to her before she took her leave out of the class while I held onto the photo of her. I'll keep it as a souvenir, just to remember that story. Besides, it was quite fun to hear and learn much more about Ponyville. At least we learned about the past and how Ponyville was discovered.

"I'm quite glad Granny Smith came." Apple Bloom spoke up. "I was so embarrassed for nothing. Heh, guess I shouldn't have listened to Diamond Tiara."

"True, but at least you allowed her to come to Family Appreciation Day." Carrie assured, hugging her best friend as she hugged her back as well. It's nice to see Carrie encouraging them, and I know she'll always be there to support them to the end.



Later
"Oh man! These zap apple jams taste so good!" Ren exclaimed, taking a bite of the zap apple jam when he placed them on a toast.

"They sure are!" Kaede agreed, eating a zap apple cupcake.

"Indeed they are." I nodded in agreement before eating some zap apple cake. After our presentation at the Family Appreciation Day, I brought Ren, Kaede, Jamie, Kodiak, and Rosy to come over to Sweet Apple Acres for the zap apple jam. Soon after, I managed to become the second customer to buy two packages of zap apple jam by using Ren's money.

"Man! These are so good! I love it!" Kodi exclaimed, licking through the jar of zap apple jam and sharing some with Rosy as he stuck some on her nose.

"Meow!" Rosy smiled, licking it off her nose.

"Hmm...they taste very good like sweet apples. I'll save them for Twilight." Jamie said, putting them down in his small brown bag and writing about the zap apples history on his notebook. "So you're telling me that Granny Smith is one of the founders of Ponyville?"

"Yes." I nodded.

"That's quite amazing. How old is she?" Jamie asked, but my only reply was a shrug since I didn't know that as well. "Oh well...maybe I'll find out myself."

"Good luck with that." I rolled my eyes at that.

"Enjoying them?" Applejack asked, walking towards us with a smirk. "I told ya that the zap apple jams taste so delicious. Thanks for harvesting them yesterday Mason."

"Anytime." I grinned before remembering something. "Hey listen...there's something I want to ask you..." Applejack and the others looked at me in confusion as I took a deep breath and said "Would you let me work here at Sweet Apple Acres?"

"Wait what?" Ren asked in confusion.

"See, I've been coming here to Sweet Apple Acres for training while helping you out with your chores. The others has jobs and been helping out others, but I want to help out with the Apple family. So if you won't mind...can I work here?" I asked politely. Applejack blinked for a few seconds before letting out some laughter.

"Well of course!" Huh? Applejack patted me on the back and said "You've been a big help for a while with the zap apple jam! Besides, you're more strong as Big Mac! And I had a feeling you would ask something like that."

"Oh...thanks, I guess." I shrugged. 

"Yep! Just remember coming tomorrow when you bring Carrie to school." Applejack said before walking off and said "Now if ya excuse me, I got some zap apple jams to sell to our customers."

"Bye that, you mean all the ponies in Ponyville?" Ren pointed out, seeing the long line that started all the way at the town. 

"Well zap apple jam is a traditional special jam that has been selling for hundreds of years." Jamie said, continuing to write down his notes.

"Well whatever. I'm gonna go and check up on Carrie. Don't eat all the jam please." I said before I began walking off.

"Oh and Mason! Congratulations on getting the job!" Ren shouted, causing me to smirk as I continued my way. That Ren Loodan...he always knows how to make us feel better. Soon, I arrived at the farmhouse, seeing Granny Smith, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Carrie and some fillies hopping around like crazy. Didn't Applejack say something about praising the water while singing your ABC's will allow you to have good luck? That's completely ridiculous...

"Diamond Tiara!" Huh? I turned around to see Diamond Tiara being pushed by her father, who had a disappointed and stern look at her.

"But daddy!" Diamond Tiara pleaded, but her father ignored her as he pushed her towards the group and had no choice to join them. I couldn't help but chuckle at her misfortune. Guess it's her fault for calling Granny Smith 'kooky'. Though, who would've thought that Granny Smith would live that long back then. I know she's old, but not THAT old. Oh well, at least I got this photo to keep hold.

I took out the photo from my sweater pockets and smiled at seeing how happy and excited Granny Smith was, along with the other settler ponies. It's nice to see them how excited and happy they are for discovering Ponyville. I guess anypony who would've heard this story would thank her and their ancestors for discovering this place....Hm? What the?

I narrowed my eyes as I took a closer look on the photo, seeing something in the background. It was something dark and grey at the background covered in vines and such. Wait, have I seen something like that before? Yeah...it almost looks like....

"Ah!" I gasped, clutching on the photo real hard upon seeing what it was. "It can't be...right?" This photo...was does it have the...home-ship in the background? I don't understand...but that's impossible! This photo was taken a very long time ago, possibly a century! So does that mean...that the home-ship's been here this long? So...how long have we've been in there?

To Be Continued
> Chapter 42 - Baby Cakes
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Are you sure that you saw it Mason?"

"I know what I saw Twilight, and yes, that photo contains the home-ship." 

I don't believe it...well I know Mason wouldn't take a joke this far, but to think what he said about that it's just...something unbelievable! Just after yesterday of the zap apple jam, Mason brought us over to the Golden Oaks Library and told us about the photo and saw the image of the home-ship in the background, covered in vines and such.

"That's i-impossible!" Jamie exclaimed, looking at the photo with a microscope to get a better view. "There's no possible that the home-ship could've been there!"

"I know what I saw, Jamie, and apparently it is the home-ship." Mason said sternly.

"Well...I'm not sure. This is something hard to take." Twilight admitted, taking a turn on the microscope. "I mean, if its true, then I'm worried about you guys on how long you've been asleep."

"Yeah, same here." Kaede agreed. "Y-you don't really think we've been inside of that ship for a long time, right?"

"But then...!" Carrie covered her mouth in shock. "What if we did and we've been for a long time!"

"Carrie, calm down." Mason assured, hugging his sister. "We are going to solve this. I promise."

"Mason's right." I added with a sigh before forming a grin. "We all gotta stay confident. Everything's going to be alright."

"A-Are you sure?" Carrie asked, which we nodded. Still though, if the home-ship really has been here for quite a while for at least a century, then we are in some deep trouble. I-I just can't believe that the possibility of ever living in this world for a century. I mean, how crazy is that? Normally that kind of stuff always happens in the movies and anime.

"Ren's right, we gotta stay positive." Kaede assured, ruffling her hair a bit. "Until we know for sure, we can try to think some way about our current situation."

"Well..." I spoke up, making everyone turned to me. "I've seen many movies that involves space-ships such as ours and thought maybe that the home-ship could time-traveled and cross through dimensions. Surely that'll explain how we ended up on this world, right? And maybe if we find a way to pilot the home-ship, we can surely to travel through back to our world and into the right timeline of ours, right?" 

Everyone gave me a blank look as Jamie spoke up "D-did...you even know what you're even saying?!"

"Ren, that's just ludicrous." Mason said, crossing his arms with a stern and serious look. "How exactly can the ship time-travel and cross dimensions?"

"Well I was pointing out a suggestion..." I rubbed my head, feeling embarrassed about it. “Besides, I saw that kind of stuff in some movies.” 

“Yeah! But aren’t those fictional?” Kaede stated.

“Well yeah, but I prefer to them to be real.” I chuckled with a soft grin.

“Ren, I don’t think you’re convincing them.” Kodi pointed out.

“Yeah, you kinda aren’t.” Carrie agreed.

“That’s just stupid. While I agree that the home-ship might me too advanced for our time, but still…” Mason raises a brow at me and said “Do you really think that it can be able to time-travel and cross dimensions. How can we be sure Equestria is another dimension parallel of ours?”

“Well there’s always multiverse theory.” Jamie offered. “I mean, it is said that there are other dimensions similar and parallel to ours.”

“You do realize that you’re kinda backing up Ren’s claim, right?” Kodi pointed out, reading a book on the couch. Jamie widened his eyes and blushed and said “Ah! I-I’m sorry!”

“It’s okay Jamie, you were trying to suggest something else.” Twilight assured, patting him on the back with a soft grin before turning to me with a raised brow and said “Although, I’m not gonna favor it might be multiverse theory.”

Well that’s a rejection I won’t bother to face.

“So how you do explain about the photo Mason got from Granny Smith?” Kaede asked curiously.

“Yeah, I wanna know too!” Carrie added in anticipation while worried about what we might learn.

“Well I can’t say for sure. Me and Jamie will need more time to study more about this.” Twilight sighed.

“Yeah, and it’ll take more time to figure this out. I still don’t wanna believe it that it might possible the home-ship might’ve been here longer than I expected, but still…it’s probably a mistake.” Jamie assured.

“Well…I only saw a glimpse of the part of the home-ship when Granny Smith gave me this photo.” Mason sighed. “So maybe I was mistaking it for something else.”

“Wait Ren, you were here in Equestria before any of us, so could you tell us about the first time you saw the home-ship?” Kaede wondered with a hopeful smile.

“Well…it was covered in some vines, that I’m sure of.” I answered, trying hard to remember. “And it looked like it hasn’t been in used for years. So that’s all I can say.”

“I see, so it has to be true. The home-ship really was here for a century.” Kaede said, her expression turning a bit pale. I know this is quite hard for any of us to handle…if we’ve been inside of those sleeping pods inside of the home-ship….then does that mean…No! That’s impossible! 

“No, that’s not true!” I yelled, which took everyone by surprise. “S-sorry everyone, it’s just that…I can’t accept this. There’s no way I can believe this. I mean, this is an old photo, and…”

“Ren, we understand how you feel.” Mason said with a serious expression. “We all can’t accept it. Besides, there’s just a small glimpse of it I saw in it, so we can’t be sure if that’s really the home-ship.”

“He’s right.” Kaede agreed. “Besides, it doesn’t explain how or if we even got in there. I mean, we don’t even remember about any of that.”

“Yeah, it doesn’t explain about it.” Carrie added. “I mean, I remember only being with my big brother and Elena in our kingdom’s town.”

“True…I just don’t know what…” Mason muttered.

“H-hey guys…” Jamie called, gaining our attention. “M-maybe we all need to t-take our m-minds off of this. T-this is getting t-too stressful with us panicking…”

“He’s got a good point.” Kodi agreed.

“You’re right. Sorry.” I chuckled, rubbing my cheek in embarrassment. “I guess I shouldn’t have brought it up.”

“It’s not your fault Ren, we all are worried.” Kaede stated.

“She’s right. I just don’t understand…” Mason wondered. “Maybe my eyes were playing around with me.”

“Yeah, I mean, how can we exactly believe something like that?” Carrie added. She has a good point, how exactly are we supposed to believe something like that? This is probably just a misunderstanding. But still…

“GUYS!” Huh? We immediately heard the door slammed opened, with a hyperactive Pinkie Pie revealing herself by launching through it and landing on top of me. “You are not gonna believe it!”

“And…what’s that?” I asked, which Pinkie noticed. 

“Oops, sorry about that Rennie.” Pinkie got off of me as I dust myself off and said “Nah, it’s okay. Just glad you didn’t step on my neck or something important in my body.” 

“So what’s going on if I might ask, Pinkie Pie?” Mason questioned.

“It’s the Cakes! They’re finally gonna get a baby!”

….

“WHAT?!” We all exclaimed in shock.

“No way!” Twilight gasped in excitement. 

“Newborn babies? That’s so amazing and adorable!” Kaede cooed.

“Yay! I wanna see them! Can we big brother?” Carrie asked, holding onto her brother’s hand in excitement. 

Mason let out a light chuckle and said “Alright, I see why not.”

“Outstanding, I am quite curious to know more about newborn foals in this world…” Jamie muttered, loud enough for us to hear.

“Sounds to me that Jamie wants to go too.” Kodi smiled while Jamie became surprised that he blabbered it out aloud.

“No! Not again!” Jamie exclaimed, feeling embarrassed.

“I’m down with it!” I said with a smile. “Come on! Lead the way Pinkie Pie!”

“Don’t worry Rennie, I know a shortcut!” Pinkie winked as she immediately grabbed us all and before you know it, we arrived to the hospital in just a second. Literally!

“W-what?! H-how did we?!” Jamie choked, feeling so extremely confused by Pinkie’s logic.

“That’s the power of Pinkie Pie for ya.” Kodi laughed.

“Yeah, still a little confused by how we got here so fast, but I’ll take it.” Kaede agreed, sweat-dropping a little. 

“…I think I need a breather and a day off…” Jamie sighed sadly, slumping his head down.

“There you all are!” We turned around, finding the rest of our friends coming into the infirmary. “We were wondering what was taking so long.” Rarity said.

“We didn’t knew about this.” Mason said bluntly.

“O-oh right…Sorry.” Rarity apologized.

“So is it true? There’s going to be a foal?” Kodi asked excitedly. Fluttershy flew over and petted his head before saying “Indeed. The Cakes been planning this for a long time.”

“Oh really?” I asked in surprise before smiling happily. “That’s awesome to hear.”

“It is…” Fluttershy smiled while blushing a bit. 

“Come on! We gotta go!” Pinkie exclaimed, bouncing around in a joyful manner.

“Yay!” Carrie cheered as we headed out of the hospital’s lobby and into the infirmary. As we walked through the halls, I turned to Fluttershy and asked “So did they delivered the baby or are they just doing that right now?”

“Oh no, they already done the operation. We’re all about to see the baby.” Fluttershy answered.

"I've never a baby pony, not even back in our world. I guess it must be something w-worth right on t-this moment." Jamie said. 

“Well today’s your lucky day, Jamie.” Rainbow smiled, patting him hard on the back. 

“A-ah…t-thanks.” Jamie softly smiled.

“You know, I remember when Carrie was born and she looked so beautiful, almost like an angel.” Mason smirked, causing Carrie to smile happily and said “Ahh, thanks big brother.”

“It’ll be so cute just seeing these baby ponies.” Kaede added, feeling so joy on going to see them.

“I know how you feel, Kaede.” Rainbow grinned. “I was just taken by surprise upon hearing about this from Pinkie Pie.”

“Oh really? When?” I asked.

“Just several months ago. Me and the other girls just thought of keeping it a secret and not tell anypony else.”

“Wait…why weren’t we told of that?” I questioned.

“Oh! Because the author haven’t thought of that idea.” Pinkie answered before looking over at the wall and winked. We all gave her confused and weird expressions towards the pink pony as Kodi tilted his head and said “Who are you even looking at?”

“Meow?” Rosy wondered about that as well, laying on Kaede’s arms.

“Well either way, it doesn’t matter. What matters is just seeing the little baby.” Fluttershy cooed.

“Indeed. It’ll be quite lovely just seeing them.” Rarity agreed. “Although I wonder if the foal would be a colt or filly.”

You know, that’s the number one question people asks. Whenever someone has a baby, that’s always the first question to come to mind. Is the baby gonna be a boy or a girl?

“No matter what gender, I say the baby will look alright.” Mason assured with a soft smile.

“Hey Kodiak, what was it like back when you were a puppy?” I asked curiously.

“I don’t remember much really.” Kodi replied, forming a sad grin. “I don’t remember quite well what my parents looked like nor where my siblings are….”

“Kodi…” I muttered, looking at him with a concern look.

“O-oh! So sorry about that! Didn’t mean to bring the mood down.” Kodi chuckled nervously. Kodi…it must be sad not knowing what your parents were like. You were abandoned when you were a puppy, and you didn’t have a name nor gotten adopted or gotten a place to stay and live at. I was so glad to meet him back then and make him a part of our family.

“Nah, it’s okay Kodi. You didn’t bring down the mood.” I replied with a soft grin.

“Oh…thanks Ren.” Kodi smiled.

“Guys! Enough talk! We’re finally here!” Rainbow exclaimed as we finally arrived to the infirmary, seeing so many baby ponies around in one room.

“AWWWWW...!” Kaede, Carrie, and the rest of the mares cooed in unison.

"And the cuteness level has been initiated." I commented with a smirk on my face.

"I still can't believe that the Cakes' have a new b-baby." Jamie stated.

"Well Cupcake and Carrot Cake must be so proud!" Twilight said with a smile.

"I wonder if it's a filly or a colt?" Rarity thought aloud.

"I don't know. I bet it's a girl!" Carrie said with a grin.

"I say that the baby might be a boy." Kodi grinned.

"Who cares?!" Pinkie exclaimed in an exciting tone. "I wanna see the new baby pony! I wanna see!" She immediately rubbed her face on the glass window while saying "Which one is it?"

"Beats me..." I shrugged as me, Mason, and Jamie walked over to the window with me standing next to Fluttershy as she said "Isn't it beautiful Ren? Seeing these cute babies?"

"Yeah, I remember seeing my sister for the first time. It was quite a good memory of me to see." I chuckled. "I always love holding her when she was a little baby back then."

"Maybe someday we'll have children of our own for you to hold..."

"What?" I asked, not hearing what she said. She froze before letting out a blush on her face as she stuttered "N-nothing! Nothing at all!"

"Umm...okay?" What was up with her? She said something, didn't she? Huh, guess it was my own imagination.

"Look! It's Mr. Cake!" Carrie pointed out. I looked out the window and saw that she was right, it was him and boy, he looks kinda exhausted. I can even see some hair growing underneath his chin. Wait...is that even possible? Maybe I'll ask Jamie later.

Anyway he was near the bed with a cute little brown mane and light brown baby pony sleeping underneath the covers.

"Meet our son, Pound Cake." Mr. Cake uncovered the blanket, revealing him as he was peacefully sleeping on the bed before letting out a cute yawn. 

"Awww..." The girls cooed while me and the other boys, including Kodi, smiled fondly at the baby. 

"He is cute." Mason smiled.

"I guess you have a heart for kids, eh?" I nudged him, causing him to blush a bit. 

"Huh?" Jamie blinked in surprise.

"What's wrong Jamie?" Twilight questioned.

"It's Pound Cake...he has wings!" Jamie exclaimed, pointing over to the baby. We took a closer look and became surprised to see that he indeed has wings.

"That is weird..." Kaede muttered in agreement.

"So he has wings. That's a way in my book!" Rainbow grinned. "I bet one day, when he gets older, I'll be his flight teacher and teach him to fly, Rainbow Dash Style!"

"Really? You? A flight teacher?" Mason raised a brow at her.

"Oh I highly doubt it, darling." Rarity commented, agreeing with Mason while ignoring the scowl from Dash.

"Don't worry Dash, I think you'll make an excellent teacher." I said, much to her joy.

"Thanks Ren! Glad to have you on my side." Rainbow smiled.  

"Hey guys! Look! I think Mr. Cake got more to say!" Kodi pointed out as we looked back and saw him moving over to another bed, the one next to his newborn, Pound Cake.

"...And our daughter, Pumpkin Cake." Wait what? We looked back and became shocked to see not one, but two ponies he had. He uncovered the blanket, revealing a light yellow coated pony with orange mane, but the strangest and surprising part was that she had a horn on her head. 

"....Huh?" We all questioned with blank looks. 

"Two...babies?" Kaede muttered in surprise.

"So in other words...they're twins!" Jamie gasped.

"That's so cool!" Kodi grinned brightly.

"Wait...two new foals for me to play with?" Pinkie wondered aloud before letting out a loud gasp. "That's two, two, two times the fun! This is the greatest day ever!"

"Now hold on Pinkie Pie, just take a deep breath and..." As I tried to tell her, she immediately disappeared and reappeared in the baby room. "...Never mind."

"And I'll try my best to hold off my questions for now on how did she do that." Jamie sighed.

"We need to celebrate your birthday!" We heard Pinkie exclaimed right in the baby room, wearing a party hat and a kazoo in her mouth as she continued "Cause you are just born today! Woo-hoo!"

"Pinkie Pie!" Mason growled. Before Pinkie could blow that kazoo, Nurse Redheart appeared and shushed her.

"The babies are trying to sleep!" Nurse Redheart said. 

"But I was just-"

"Shh!"

"But-"

"Shh!"

Pinkie had no choice but to remain silent before Nurse Redheart took her leave. I'm surprise to see this side of the nurse. Back then, we first met when she told us about Kaede's awakening and she fell unconscious upon arriving in Ponyville. I guess she takes her job very seriously, but I know she's a good pony at heart. 

Once Pinkie looked around and saw the nurse was gone, she slowly tip-toed over between the Cake Twins' bed, she began singing quietly in hopes of not waking them up.

"Happy happy birthday, to you and you today-"

However, Nurse Redheart popped back in again with a stern and irritated look, causing Pinkie to smile sheepishly at her. Five seconds later, Nurse Redheart kicked her out back into the lobby and took her leave.

"I tried to warn her." I sighed, which the others agreed.

"Anyway..." Applejack turned back to the babies through the looking glass with a confused look. "How in thunderation is one of them twins a Pegasus and the other one a unicorn?"

"Huh, I never really thought of that." Carrie wondered.

"Oh, that's easy." Huh? We looked over at Carrot Cake, who apparently overheard our conversation. "My great-great-great-great grandfather was a unicorn, and Cup Cake's great aunt's second cousin twice removed was a Pegasus. That makes sense, right?"

"...You kinda lost me from when you gained our attention." Kaede said, rubbing her cheek in embarrassment.

"Yeah, same here. I kinda don't get it." I added with a nervous grin.

"I get it." Jamie said, writing down his notebook as we both gave him a confused look. He noticed it and said "You see, it's called Atavism, which means its a trait that came from an ancestor that was lost in many generations, so it seems that they both received it from their birth. Outstanding, isn't it?"

"I get it, but at the same time, I don't get it at all." I stated.

"Same here." Kaede agreed.

"Oh well, it doesn't matter." Fluttershy smiled while looking out the glass wall. "They look so cute!"

"Indeed Fluttershy, they're just so cute I can hold them right now." Rarity added.

"Ah, yeah! Heh, just you wait! Once little Pound Cake there gets his wings going, he'll be all over the place!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"Talking from experience?" Mason questioned.

"Mm-hmm! You know it!" Rainbow nodded.

"And be careful around Pumpkin Cake." Twilight said.

"Baby unicorns get strange magic surges that come and go." Rarity added.

"Magic surges?" I questioned.

"Don't you remember Ren? When Twilight told us about how she gotten her cutie-mark, she gotten into the magic surge when during the entrance exam of her school." Kaede reminded me.

"Oh...right." I rubbed my head bashfully with a nervous smile. "I see."

"So baby unicorns can have magic surges that easily?" Mason asked.

"True, baby unicorns experienced that whenever they get their first touch with magic." Rarity explained.

"It's true. They cast spells like levitating objects without them even controlling it." Twilight added.

"I see." Mason nodded in understanding before noticing one of us was missing. "Where's Pinkie Pie?"

"Umm...big brother?" Carrie tugged his sweater, gaining his attention as she pointed through the looking glass as we all made surprised and deadpan expressions upon seeing Pinkie holding a birthday cake between the twin foals.

"Quick! Make a wish and blow out your candles!" Pinkie whispered. "Which is easy, 'cause there are zero candles! You are zero years old, after all!"

"Shh!" Nurse Redheart came back to the lobby with a stern look before kicking Pinkie back into the lobby, her face falling onto the cake.

"You just can't keep yourself together, can ya?" Mason asked in a deadpan expression.

"W-what do you expect?" Jamie asked with a sigh.

"It's what I'm known for, Masey and Jamie!" Pinkie chuckled with a bright smile as Kodi and Rosy came over and licked her face and the ruined cake.

"Hmm...vanilla and chocolate..." Kodi muttered in joy.

"Meow!" Rosy agreed, licking some of the frosting off her face. We all soon began to laugh at this while I began thinking of how are the Cakes' gonna handle this? I wouldn't worried about it. I mean, they're just a couple of baby foals, how hard it is to raise them? Oh well, it doesn't matter. I feel like I'm feeling better after that whole thing back at the library. I mean, really? Time-travel and crossing through dimensions? Heh heh...what was I thinking? Besides, Mason might've been right about being wrong about it. I mean, it's just a small glimpse of it, it could've been something else, right?



One Month Later

...Huh? Where....am...I?....I soon got off the floor, and looking around the area, I say that I'm nowhere due to seeing how dark it got. 

"How could this have happened to them?"

Huh?

"I think this has to do something about those angry mob."

"Yeah, they tried to hunt them down and kill them all because they get to survive and we don't!"

"They were innocent people! They didn't deserved this!"

"Are you sure about that? They're gone. Just like that..."

"I knew one of them. It was a boy in his teen years. He was just an innocent child, it's not his fault he was chosen for it. He didn't deserve it!"

Those voices...have I heard them before? The area soon started to slowly lit up, revealing that I was outside in what seems to be a national park and it had tons of gravestones...Wait, this is the World War II Memorial Graveyard!...What exactly am I doing here? I've never been here before, not much live in around the area like this.

"We're all gonna die now! Without them, we're doomed!"

"Get ahold of yourself!" 

...What's going on? What are those voices? What...are they talking about?

"We'll...think of a way. Maybe we can find a new batch and-"

"But even so, they too would be attacked by that cult organization, and they can't come because they aren't..."

"We get it, alright?! Now what?"

"We can only hope that the earth will still be around..."

"Hope...that's what they told us. They were our last hope...and look at what that got us..."

Hope....we were meant to be this world's hope....I looked around, seeing myself back in the same dream from before. I looked around and widened my eyes upon seeing my portrait, but I wasn't the only one. There were other portraits, nine to be exact. Four portraits that I don't remember, but five...I remember....

Mason...Carrie...Kaede...Jamie...wait...I noticed something behind our nine portraits, there...what was it? It looked like another...Ugh...my head...it feels like I've been dropped many times...I can't see right...



"AH!" Oh man...that was so terrifying....ugh, just what's going on with my head? It must've been another memory recovered. But it was that dream I had after me and the others defeated Nightmare Moon and turned her back to Princess Luna. Seriously though, it was a real pain. I still can't remember how I got here...I just wonder how my family's doing.

"Ren?" Huh? I looked down to see Kodi slowly starting to wake up and noticed my distress. "What's up with you? You looked like you had a bad dream or something."

"Well...something like that." I rubbed my cheek in embarrassment. "Anyway, good morning."

"Same to you." Kodi let out a yawn as we exited out of bed as I went to go and brush my teeth, put on new clothes and headed to the kitchen/Dining Hall.

"Hey you guys!" I greeted with a grin, seeing everyone already at the table, eating their breakfast.

"Oh, morning Ren." Kaede greeted back with a smile.

"I see you finally managed to wake up." Mason smiled as I took down a seat and noticed that the breakfast was quite different today.

"Yeah, but whoa, it looks delicious." I said with a smile.

"Tell me about it! Who made this? You Mason?" Kodi asked in awe, but he shook his head and replied "Ask Kaede yourself."

We turned our heads to the said girl as she blushed and rubbed her cheek in embarrassment. 

"Well...I thought I make something of my own. So me and Rosy got out of bed early and started cooking. It's the best I could ever made back when I started working as a maid. It's egg omelette, french toast, with some herb tea added with it, along a side of potatoes. I was lucky to find the ingredients around this place." Kaede explained.

"Well thanks Kay!" I thanked with a smile before taking a bite of the omelette, feeling quite joyed of it. Even Kodi and Rosy were enjoying the food while one of them was gobbling them down.

"Hey, where's Jamie?" Carrie wondered.

"He's at Twilight's library." Mason answered with a sigh. "He's been sleeping there for a long while due to many research on how we got here with that photograph I gave him."

"I'm starting to grow more worried about him." Kaede said with a concern look. "I've been noticing the bags under his eyes more darker. He needs more sleep or else he'll get sick or worse."

True, I mean, I understand Jamie does that for research and to calm his mind down from a subject that makes him go outrage and makes him have doubts in his mind, but he needs to relax and go to sleep. 

"Yeah..." Kodi yawned, sharing some of his food with Rosy. "But you know, it's been a while since we heard from the Cakes, right?"

"True. What with their newborn babies." Mason agreed.

"Wow, can you believe a month has really past? We've been here for quite a while." Carrie nodded.

Oh right, a month has past since the Cakes' twins birth. A whole month for their arrival to their world while I've been here for an entire year...I wonder if my family's been looking out for me. I bet Mason, Carrie, Kaede, and Jamie's families' are searching out and worried about them as well as mine. Speaking of which, that dream...It was similar to mine back when me, Twilight and the gang discovered the Elements of Harmony and use their power against Nightmare Moon. I had a dream about seeing my own funeral. Only this time, I saw not only mine, but their's as well. I don't understand....those four portraits....

"Hey you guys...this might sound crazy but...I had a weird and crazy dream." I spoke up, catching all of their attention.

"Hm? How weird and crazy than you are normally everyday?" Mason questioned.

"Oh thanks." I said, rolling my eyes.

"Is it something relating to our memories?" Kaede questioned, feeling a bite hopeful of it while Rosy walked over and climbed up to her shoulder.

"Well...I...think I saw my own funeral." I said with hesitation while the others became shocked to hear this. "And not just that...I saw you guys as well."

"O-our own funerals?!" Carrie exclaimed.

"Yeah, I saw portraits of us. Nine in total, but I couldn't identify the other four, just you guys I saw." 

"T-this...is surreal." Mason growled, clenching his fists in anger. "There's no possible way...is it?"

"You guys don't think...we're d-dead right?" Kaede asked in worried, her expression turning pale. 

"D-dead?!" Kodi gaped. "But if you're dead, why are you guys still here then?!"

"That is true, and even so, it contradicts everything from we know." Mason stated.

"Like what big brother?" Carrie asked curiously, not following what he means. I soon realized what he's talking about as I answered "He's talking about our awakening in the pods."

"Correct. We've been asleep in them for who knows how long, but there's no way we could've died." Mason said with an irritated look. "But still...to think of that possibility...how would Elena and the rest of the family take this?!"

"Mason, calm down!" Kaede exclaimed, feeling really worried for him.

"If that's possible...No! I won't accept it!" Mason exclaimed.

"Big brother! Stop!" Carrie yelled as his two pet squirrels came out of his scarf and started nuzzling him before Maddy took out his locket, which soon started to calm him a bit. 

"Ugh...please forgive my rudeness or if I cause any distress." Mason sighed, clenching his fist. "I...I won't accept it. We need to find more answers."

"Yeah, sorry about bringing that up. If I knew that would make you guys upset, I shouldn't have said anything." I said with a sad look.

"No Ren, it wasn't your fault." Mason assured, putting a hand on my shoulder. "You just felt like it was necessary. Besides, we need all possibilities to figure out our current situation."

"Yeah!" Kodi agreed. "I mean, if you're really dead, you guys wouldn't stand right here in the first place!"

"True, we would've been ghosts." Kaede chuckled. "But...nine portraits? What do you mean by that Ren?"

"Well...I think it got something to do with what Discord said to me." I explained, surprising them a bit.

"D-Discord?!" Carrie exclaimed.

"Not him again..." Kodi sighed. "Just thinking about that guy just makes my head hurt and gives me a bad taste."

"Well can't blame ya there boy." I petted him on the head, cheering him a little. But still...Discord. I can't forget about that name. He was always toying with our minds and nearly ruined our friendship with each other and tried to take over Equestria by using his chaotic magic. However...I can't help but feel like he knows more about us, even about our missing memories.

"Anyway..." I cleared my throat before continuing my story again. "He tried to trick me by trying to convince me to go back home through a portal. However, I didn't fall for it. But the strangest part was that he said something about 'Why else you nine were selected for the project besides your immunity'."

"Project?" Kaede asked.

"Immunity?" Carrie tilted her head in confusion.

"Well that's what he said, at least." I shrugged.

"Wait, if you knew this, why didn't you tell us?!" Mason demanded, giving me a stern look. I chuckled nervously and replied "It...sorta slipped my mind."

Mason gave me a blank look before blinking and muttering "Unbelievable..."

"But still! It's a clue, right?" Kodi asked with a smile. "Surely it might mean that there's more humans than you guys."

"He's right. So there's nine of us hidden in this ship..." Kaede wondered while scratching underneath Rosy's chin. "I wonder what kind of people they are."

"Me too! I just hope they're as friendly as you guys." Carrie added with a soft smile.

"We'll see about that." Mason smirked before making a serious expression and said "But for now, we should think about this for another time and continue our breakfast. I have to go over to Sweet Apple Acres to help out the Apple Family with work while Carrie has to go to school."

"Well Rarity closed up shop for the weekend to spend time with her family." Kaede rubbed her head with a sad smile. "Guess I'll stay behind and watch some TV."

"Same here...Fluttershy told me yesterday that she has to go to a picnic with Angel, and due to his stubbornness...there's no convincing him." I sighed.

"Sorry to hear." Mason assured, patting me on the shoulder. "Well anyway, I gotta go. Come on Carrie."

"Okay!" Carrie nodded before grabbing her backpack and followed her brother out of the door. Well looks like we got the place for ourselves.

"Well this is boring...now what?" Kaede wondered.

"Meow!" Rosy called, scratching her jacket a little. 

"Huh? Something wrong girl?" Kaede asked curiously before a light rumble from her stomach. "Oh! You're hungry! I'll go and make some more egg omelette for you."

"You know, you're quite cooking food. It makes you like a super mom." I commented, causing Kaede to feel surprised by it.

"Y-you really think so Ren?" Kaede asked.

"Well yeah!" Kaede blushed from that before looking away and muttered "T-thanks."

Suddenly, we heard a loud growling coming out of Kodi's stomach, much to his embarrassment.

"Sorry about that...guess I'm a little hungry." Kodi grinned sheepishly.

"A little hungry?" I asked in bewilderment. "Your stomach almost sounded like an earthquake."

"What can I say? I love to eat!" Kodi commented. Well...you're not wrong there.

"Okay, I'll make something delicious Kodi." Kaede smiled before walking over to the kitchen, putting on an apron and soon starting cooking. Rosy, Kodi, and I watched as twenty-five minutes past, and she was finally finishing up, putting more omelettes, french toast, pretty much anything breakfast related onto Rosy and Kodi's bowls

"There ya go! What do you guys think?" Kaede asked with a cheerful smile.

"It looks so good!" Kodi exclaimed in joy.

"Meow!" Rosy agreed before licking her lips and began devouring the foods.

"Wow, you really are good at this." I said with a smile towards Kaede.  "You're quite a cooker, Kay!"

"Thanks Ren, I learned that kind of stuff from when I was working as a part-time maid." Kaede replied, crossing her arms with a smirk on her face. 

"You know, you're quite reliable a lot." Kaede felt surprised to hear that from me as she asked "R-really?"

"Well yeah. You try so much to help us all and made that hero costume back then." I smiled before remembering about it as I added "Well...despite what the gang said about it."

"Wow...thanks Ren. You know, you're quite kind with your words. It sorta makes us motivates all of us." Kaede complimented. I blushed a bit and said "Come on, I'm just being friendly with you guys, no big deal."

"Well true, but it's like a talent of yours to motivate us by heart." 

"She's right. You offered me a home here, Ren, and even gave me the name 'Kodiak'." Kodi stated, showing off his collar.

"Yeah. I think even the others can agree. You're a good friend, Ren." Kaede smiled.

I couldn't help but smile as well before saying "Thanks Kay."

Soon before our conversation ended, we heard the doorbell ringing.

"Oh, I wonder who could it be this time." Kaede wondered as we walked over to the door and opened it, revealing to be the Cakes' and their little babies.

"Oh hey Mr and Mrs. Cake, what's up?" I asked curiously. 

"Ren! Kaede! So glad to finally see you two!" Mrs. Cake sighed in relief. "There's a quick favor we need you two to do!"

"Come on! Pick me!" Huh? I looked behind them to see Pinkie waving her hoofs around in anticipation. Wonder what's up with her?

"A favor?" Kaede asked curiously.

"Yes, you see..." Mr. Cake started up his explanation about the favor as he said "We have to deliver this enormously big catering order over by to Canterlot! But we completely forgot about it and we don't have a babysitter to babysit Pound and Pumpkin Cake!"

Said babies who were cooing playfully, making Kaede smile happily.

"Ahh, that's so cute." Kaede commented.

"So wait...you want Ren and Kaede to babysit?" Kodi asked curiously, walking towards the door with Rosy on her back.

"Well of course!" Mrs. Cake nodded.

"But why not Pinkie Pie? I mean, she hangs out with them more than us." I pointed out, which caused them to cringe and look at each other in worried. "What's wrong? Is...that a bad idea?"

"Well you see, Pinkie Pie is a great role model for the twins..." Mr. Cake agreed before frowning. "But she's..."

"We think she might not hold up to the task of watching over the twins and doesn't know responsibility." Mrs. Cake finished. "That's why we've been looking over town for a babysitter and nobody wants to fulfill the role."

"That's so sad..." Kaede said, putting her hand on her chest before making a determined look. "We'll do it!"

"We will?" I asked incredulously as Kaede whispered through my ear and said "Of course Ren! I mean, Carrot and Cup Cake worked real hard and couldn't watch their children. Besides, it'll be easy."

Hmm...well I've always watched over my sister and my brother and dad showed me how to raise her when she was still a baby...so I see why not.

"Yeah! We'll watch them for ya Mr. and Mrs. Cake!" I said with a determined smile before putting my hands behind my back and said "Besides, these guys are so cute, how can they cause so much trouble for us?"

Mr. and Mrs. Cake smiled brightly at that idea as the latter exclaimed "Thank you so much, dearies! We'll never forget this!"

"Ahhh..." Pinkie sighed sadly, her mane deflating in depression. I couldn't help but feel bad for her now. It seems like she wanted to babysit them, but the Cakes' have doubts on her due to her childish personality. But hopefully she can at least, help us from making the Cakes' Twins not cry at all. 

"So should we go over to Sugarcube Corner to babysit them?" Kaede asked.

"I see why not." Mr. Cake agreed. "Come on!"

We nodded and headed back to Ponyville, leaving Pinkie behind.

"But...me?" 



Later
Wow, that's a lot of sweets they're gonna deliver. They were going back and forth back to the kitchen that I lost count how many times they came to the kitchen.

"Look at all that food...I'm so jealous on whoever is ordering all those sweets..." Kodi muttered, licking his lips.

"Still though, thank you so much for watching over the twins', dearies!" Mrs. Cake said with a smile.

"No problem Mrs. Cake." I nodded with a grin as I held Pound Cake while Kaede held Pumpkin Cake. "We promise that we won't let you and Mr. Cake down."

"Thank you both." Mr. Cake thanked before asking "But you both really understand the responsibility of watching over two babies?"

"Well this is my first time watching over a couple of babies..." Kaede admitted.

"Well I've taken care of my baby sister many times." I added before forming a smile. "So we'll be totally alright."

"Y-you're right. I mean, I might learn something from this experience." Kaede agreed with a slightly nervous smile.

"That's good enough to hear!" Mrs. Cake smiled before handing us a list. "Here ya go. All the responsibilities are on this list."

"Don't worry, we'll do awesomely well." I assured before opening it up, revealing a really long list so long that it reached to the ground. "Holy crap, that's a long list."

"But don't worry, like Ren said, we'll do awesomely well." Kaede smiled, sweat-dropping a little just from the sight of the long list.

"Thank you so much dearies..." Mrs. Cake smiled before looking over a depressed Pinkie Pie, who was rubbing her hoof on the ground while she sulk in the corner. Poor Pinkie... "Oh...I guess maybe I shouldn't have hurt her feelings. Can you dearies cheer her up please when we get back from our delivery?"

"Sure." I nodded with a smile. "Besides, I don't like seeing Pinkie like that."

"Thank you." Mrs. Cake smiled.

"We'll frost it when we get there! C'mon, sugarplum, tick-tock!" Mr. Cake exclaimed, pushing a wrapped up cake through the door.

"Oh right! Take good care of our two precious little ginger snaps!" Mrs. Cake said.

"No problem, Mr and Mrs. Cake. Everything is under control." I assured.

"Yeah! Good luck on your delivery!" Kaede smiled. With that, they both exited out of the kitchen and were off to make their delivery. Now then...

We turned to Pinkie Pie, still sulking in the corner as I cleared my throat, gaining her attention.

"Oh...hi Rennie, hi Kay...." Pinkie slowly waved at us.

"Pinkie...do you want to help us raise Pumpkin and Pound Cake? I mean, you are the only one who knows so much about them." Kaede pointed out.

"So...will ya help us?" I asked, causing Pinkie to stare at us for a minute before we saw a smile slowly forming on her muzzle her mane brought back to her puffy and crazy style and before long, she immediately started shaking. Uhh...is there something wrong with her?

She immediately blasted into the air with an excited look, and soon, everywhere was sparkled around like fireworks as she yelled "YAHOOOOOO!"

"Uhh...so is that a yes?" Pinkie immediately popped between us and hugged me and Kaede together while Kodi and Rosy smiled happily to see her like this again.

"You betcha! No way I'm gonna leave out this opportunity!" Pinkie exclaimed in excitement before bouncing around merrily. “Just leave everything to Auntie Pinkie Pie!”

“…Is she even old to be our aunt?” Kaede questioned.

“I have no clue.” I shrugged. Suddenly, the babies started crying, which made Kodi and Rosy cover their ears in pain.

“Ugh! My ears!” Kodi exclaimed.

“D-don’t worry boy, we’ll try to make them happy again.” I said before putting both the babies down and pulling off some silly faces at them. However, they kept crying again. “Well that trick worked well with my sister…”

“Don’t worry! I got this!” Pinkie exclaimed as she grabbed the babies and held them by the forelegs, patting them gently and somehow got them to stop crying. “Oh, don’t cry little friends! Look, look!” She pointed towards the door to the kitchen and ran straight towards and hid behind the door. “Where’s Pinkie Pie?…Where’s Pinkie Pie?”

“Umm…Pinkie, what are you doing?” Kaede asked.

“It’s called ‘Where’s Pinkie Pie?’ It always make them smile.” Pinkie answered, peeking out the door before noticing the two babies looked at each other and began crying again. “Uh oh! U-uhh…I’m right here, see!” She opened the doors and rushed over to us before making goofy faces at them, but ended up with the same results. Me and Kaede grabbed them and patted them on the back.

“Pinkie, I don’t think its working.” I pointed out.

“W-well do something like maybe make them laugh?” Kodi suggested, still covering his ears with his paws while Rosy hid in Kaede’s sweater pockets in hopes of not wanting to keep hearing it.

“Aha! I got it!” Pinkie brightened up on Kodiak’s idea before rushing off and setting up the entire place with a table and curtains. “Hey guys, watch this!” Suddenly, a spotlight somehow appeared and started following her as she walked over to the center of the curtains while grabbing onto a broom that was near a stool. “Hey, you’re a wonderful crowd here, where you all from?” She asked, holding out the broom towards us.

“Uhh…what is you doing?” Kaede asked.

“I…think she’s trying stand-up comedy?” I replied, feeling unsure about this before noticing Pumpkin Cake trying to bite onto the end of the broom, which Kaede noticed as well and prevented him from doing so. 

“…Well that’s great.” Pinkie laughed nervously before clearing her throat, returning back to her cheery self. “You know, I used to have an ant farm, but I had to get rid of it because I couldn’t find tractors that small!” She rushed over and grabbed a drum and cymbal out of there and did one of those sounds you hear from a show when people makes jokes.

“Ba-dum tish!”

….

“Really?” We asked in a deadpan expression.

“What? Don’t ya get it? Tractors that small?” She asked.

“We get it Pinkie, but the way you say it…”

“It’s not funny.” Kaede finished.

“Um…alright then…” Pinkie chuckled nervously before continuing “Well, the other day, I spilled some remover on my dog, and now I can’t find him!”

“Ba-dum tish!”

“…Pinkie, you’re not winning the crowd.” Kodi pointed out, seeing the babies sad and whiny expressions. Before you know it, they started crying once again. 

“Phew…tough crowd.” Pinkie commented.

“Hey guys, why not we just put them to sleep? It might calm them down.” Kaede suggested.

“Yeah, that sounds like a better idea.” I agreed.

“Please hurry!” Kodi exclaimed, covering his ears in pain.

“Wait! I got another idea!” Pinkie exclaimed, immediately rushing over to the curtains.

“Wait what?” I asked in surprise before she spoke up and said “I wasn’t gonna pull off a show stopper, but you’re a lovely audience and I think you deserve it!”

“Pinkie…what are you doing?” Kaede asked, rocking Pumpkin Cake in attempts to calm him down.

“This is what I’m doing, Kay!” Pinkie popped out of the curtains, wearing a pig snout.

“A…pig snout?” I raised a brow at her, wondering what she’s planning on doing now.


First you jiggle your tail! Oink oink oink!

Then you wriggle your rump! Oink oink oink!



She bounced around the place and appeared between use, shaking her head in rhythm. No offense, but how is something like this supposed to calm them down?!



Then you wriggle your rump! Oink oink oink!

Then shout it! Oink oink oink!



She made a grin before balancing on her tail and tilted to the side, keeping the rhythm of the song. Wow, I gotta say, I’m impress by how she did that, but then again…she is quite a party pony. She has the talent of a circus clown.



First you jiggle your tail! Oink oink oink!

Then your wriggle your snout! Oink oink oink!

Then you wiggle your rump! Oink oink oink!

Then shout it out! Oink oink oink!



“Huh…she’s good.” I commented, seeing her bounce around while shaking her tail.

“Yeah, but I don’t these guys understand that.” Kaede pointed out, seeing the Cakes’ twins making confused looks before crying even more. Pinkie noticed this and immediately started increasing the speed of her song.



First you jiggle your tail! Oink oink oink!

Then you wriggle your snout! Oink oink oink!

Then you wiggle your rump! Oink oink oink!

Then shout it out! Oink oink oink!


She accidentally tripped over and landed straight towards me. I immediately gave Pound to Kaede before taking the hit as we both landed onto the cabinet.

“Ren!” Kodi and Kaede called in worried.

“Are you okay?!” Kaede asked in concern.

“Y-yeah, I think-” I was cut-off as a bag of flour poured onto me and Pinkie, which caught the twins’ attention as they slowly began to giggle and soon laughed. “Huh…looks like it did work after all.”

“There, see? Nothing to this babysitting business!” Pinkie said with a smile before she fell back to the floor and felt exhausted.

“You both go clean yourselves up. I think I can handle these guys.” Kaede said with a smile.

“Alright, thanks Kay.” I thanked before me and Pinkie headed upstairs, leaving Kodi, Rosy, and Kaede behind as they went prepared to help out the babies. While me and Pinkie were in the bathroom, cleaning off the flour by using a wet rag, I spoke up and said “Man, who knew raising two baby ponies would be this hard? I don’t think my sister was that difficult when she was young.”

“I know, right?” Pinkie agreed, already done cleaning her face. “It was fine alright before Mr. and Mrs. Cake left, and I thought I could prove them wrong by showing them that I am responsible!”

“So you did overhear our conversation, eh?” I asked with a sad smile. Pinkie sighed as her mane slightly deflated before saying “Yeah, I was heartbroken to hear that Mr. and Mrs. Cake didn’t have faith in me. How silly isn’t it? I always help them out and play around with the twins’, but it looks like they don’t fully trust with something like this.”

“Pinkie Pie, I know the Cakes’ wouldn’t allow you to babysit them, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t have complete trust with you. They do, just worried about the babies, that’s all. Besides, they seemed really desperate on finding a babysitter, no matter who it is.” I said with a soft smile.

"Yeah, you're right." Pinkie slowly smiled before saying "I don't know what they're talking about. I'll prove to them that I'm respons...uh..."

"Responsible?"

"Yeah! That!" Pinkie grinned while I playfully rolled my eyes. Can't blame her for not knowing that word. We soon exited out of the bathroom, only to be bumped into Kaede, who apparently she, Rosy, Kodiak, and the babies were covered in flour.

"Whoa, what happened to you?" I asked incredulous.

"It's a long story..." Kaede sighed while holding onto Pumpkin and Pound Cake. "Let's just say that they had a difficult time eating."

"Yeah, and we can also see why Pound Cake is called 'Pound Cake'." Kodi said with a deadpan expression. Rosy meow'd in agreement.

"So I guess it's time for them to take a bath, eh?" I asked.

"Yep!" Kodi nodded.

"Don't worry! Leave it to me you guys!" Pinkie assured as she grabbed the twins from Kaede's hands. "Rennie! Can you start the water?"

"Got it!" I nodded before walking over to the tub and turned it on, making sure that the water is between hot and cold. Just to make sure they won't complain about it, that's all. As soon as I managed to get the tub filled up, I turned around to see Kaede and Pinkie taking off the Cakes' Twins diapers off, but once they did, the little foals started giggled and running around merrily.

"Hey! Come back here!" Kaede exclaimed as she and Pinkie began chasing after them. Me and Kodi took part of the chase before we noticed Pumpkin Cake chewing on the towel, much to our shock.

"H-hey Pumpkin Cake! That's not food!" I stated before grabbing her while Kaede managed to find Pound Cake, who was apparently hiding inside the mirror. That baby is quite clever. 

"I got him!" Kaede said before we put them in the tub while Pinkie adding some bubbles in it. 

"Cool! Where'd you get the bubbles?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Oh! I always keep stuff like this in my mane!" Pinkie answered, proving it by taking some more bubble shampoos out of her, much to our bewilderment. I know she's just being herself, but her mane is like, literally, the hyperspace of an RPG game.

Suddenly, we heard more crying coming over from the twins', much to Kodi and Rosy's complaint.

"Not again!" Kodi complained.

"Ooh, look guys, bubbles!" Pinkie said, placing some bubbles in her hoof before blowing the bubbles towards them nicely, causing them to smile lightly. 

"Good idea Pinkie!" Kaede complimented before grabbing some more bubbles from the water and blowing them gently towards the babies, much to their joy. Well looks like it's working. But unfortunately, I spoke too soon as one of the bubbles popped on Pumpkin Cakes' horn, causing them to feel frightened and cry loudly. "Uh oh!"

"Come on!" Kodi barked in exasperation.

"Uhhh...wait. Have this." I suggested, placing a rubber duck in the tub, which caused them to smile happily at that.

"Oh! Nice idea Rennie! Be right back you guys!" Pinkie zoomed out of the room, much to our confusion.

"Now what is she doing?" Kodi wondered as his question was answered with Pinkie running back into the bathroom and placing more rubber toys in the tub. She kept zooming back and forth and placing more stuff into the tub, much to our shock.

"Pinkie wait!" Kaede stopped her before she had the chance to place a big raft into the tub, which I probably won't ask how she gotten it. "That's enough! I think they're enjoying the toys, thank you."

"Oh really?" Pinkie asked incredulous before looking over, seeing the twins' enjoying them. "Oh! Okay!" She grinned while Kaede shook her head and sighed. I know how you feel. Oh well, at least it's making them-WHOA!

Suddenly, I was blasted by a wave of water, crashing through the door and back to the cabinet, getting hit by a bag of flour in the process. I slowly got up and walked back into the bathroom with a dizzy look on my face while the others became surprised by what happen.

"Ren! Are you okay?!" Kaede asked in worried.

"Whoa! For a filly, he's really strong!" Kodi gaped.

"What?" I asked, putting my hand on my head to ease off the headache. "What happen?"

"Well Pound Cake accidentally hit the fauncet, causing it to break and hitting you in the process." Pinkie explained before giggling upon me being covered by flour. "But other than that, you're covered in flour again silly. Even the twins' find it hilarious!"

To prove her point, I looked over and saw the twins' laughing at me while I looked at myself at a mirror and saw how I looked. Due to being covered by water, the flour was started to turn pale like mud, which I let out a heavy sigh and said "Really? Is that what's gonna be?"

"Yeah! It's almost like a running gag for this chapter." Pinkie giggled, causing us to look at her confusedly.

"What are you talking about Pinkie?" Kaede asked with a raised brow.

"Oh nothing. Just something aloud." Pinkie waved it off. Doesn't matter, what matters is getting some stuff off of me. And I just got my sweater washed last week.



"Alright, so what's next on the list?" Kaede wondered, looking over it. After we brough the twins' out of the tub, I had Pinkie Pie take my sweater over to clean it, leaving me only with my Pac-Man T-Shirt.

"Well...we fed them, gave them a bath, what's next? Change their diapers?" Kodi chuckled before sniffing in the air and covering his snout while Rosy hid in front of his chest as me and Kaede looked at them confusedly before sniffing in the air  and realized why they're like this.

"Oh no...please don't tell me that..."

"I guess it is..." Kaede sighed before we turned to the twins', seeing them playing around with their toys innocently. Yup, just as I feared...we're going to have to change them. My dad and older brother always does that to my sister, but me and Kaede doing something like this...it's kinda gross, but we'll give it a try.

"Quick, you grab the diapers, and I'll try to catch them." I explained my little plan, which she nodded in agreement.

"While you at it, me and Rosy will be underneath the bed and support you guys in the end." Kodi assured before he and Rosy hid underneath the babies' crib, not wanting to be involve this. Can't say I blame him for being afraid by them. Those babies are quite clever.

"Oh you two..." Kaede muttered before turning to me with a serious expression and said "Alright, let's do it."

With that, we took put our plan into motion as Kaede went over to the drawer to pick up some diapers while I slowly walked over to the babies and was ready to pounce at them. I immediately jumped in, only for the babies to notice and run away, causing me to crash onto the ground.

"God dang it..." I muttered in deadpan before I got up and chased after them. "Get back here you two!"

They both climbed onto the drawer, where Kaede was, as I immediately tried to catch them. "Kaede now!"

"Right!" Kaede yelled back as she and I pounced at them, struggling to put on the diapers. Once we finished, we got up and smirked at them as I said "Ha! How do you like that Pound and Pumpkin Cake?"

However, my words were taken back as we gazed at the twins', seeing no diapers on them. What? I don't understand...where?

"Tee-hee..." The babies started giggling before they started laugh out loud. What? What are they laughing about?

"HA HA HA HA!" We turned to Kodiak and Rosy, who were laughing their butts off. "Take a look at yourselves!"

"Huh?" Me and Kaede looked at each other, before realizing what they're laughing about.  We had...diapers...on our heads. "AHHHHHHHHHH!"

"I can't believe it!" Kaede exclaimed in shock. "How did this happen?!"

"I have no idea!" I retorted before seeing the two baby ponies keep laughing at each other. "Hey! It's not funny!"

Suddenly, we heard a doorbell rang downstairs, which made us feel relief of that. 

"Oh man, it must be them." I sighed in relief.

"I hope so. Glad to see Mr. and Mrs. Cake back here." Kaede agreed before taking the diaper off of her head, as well as I. "Can you go answer it? I'll try to get Pound and Pumpkin Cake into their diapers. You go over and answer the door."

"Got it." I nodded before heading out of the room.

"And I'll come too!" Kodi called, running along while Rosy stayed behind with Kaede, wanting to help her friend with the twins' madness. We soon headed downstairs and back to the dining room as I headed over to the door and opened it, revealing to be Twilight and Jamie.

"Hi! We finished up the work I had to do, so we thought we'd stop by and see if you needed any help." Twilight said with a smile.

"Oh thank god!" I sighed in joy and relief. So glad that we managed to find some more help. "You guys have no idea how hard it is to babysit a couple of baby ponies."

"It's okay R-Ren." Jamie smiled. "We figured you would need some h-help."

"Not just him, but Kaede and Pinkie Pie as well." Kodi pointed out.

"We see, well we're glad to come all this to help out Ren." Twilight chuckled. "After all, we thought you guys needed help."

"Well yeah, but-"

"Ex-cuse me?!" Uh oh...we turned around to see an irritated Pinkie Pie, dropping a laundry basket on the ground in the process. 

"O-oh hi P-Pinkie Pie..." Jamie greeted. "We w-were wondering if y-ya need help."

"Jamie's right. Babies take a lot of work, and some ponies are just not cut out to handle the responsibility." Twilight added.

Jamie nodded in agreement before saying "It's true. Not every parent or guardian are perfect or quite handle the challenge."

"Is that so?" Pinkie eyed both of them, feeling offended by what they said about raising a child.

"Pinkie Pie, wait!" I tried to stop her, but she ignored me as she continued "Well thanks for stopping by, Twilight and Jamie."

She pushed them out of the door before saying "Sorry, I don't have time to visit. I'm very very busy with my responsibilities here."

"We're happy to help!" Twilight assured. "It's no trouble-"

Unfortunately, she was cut-off by Pinkie slamming onto the door, feeling not the mood to talk to them.

"Pinkie! What was that for?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"Yeah! We could've easily gotten their help!" Kodi added with a growl.

"Well they don't have complete faith in us! They think I can't handle things on my own! Maybe because I haven't handled things on my own." Pinkie sighed with a frustrated look. "Well, I can handle things on my own!"

"Oh Pinkie Pie!" I exclaimed. "That's not what they meant! They were just talking about many ponies and people not being perfect parents nor guardians. I mean, can Mr. and Mrs. Cakes even raise them perfectly like they wanted to be?"

"Well..." Pinkie twiddled her hooves in embarrassment. "You have a good point..." 

"Yeah! They might've even knew much about raising babies!" Kodi pointed out. "You shouldn't have made them leave!"

"I know! I know! But...I felt hurt by her words! I wanted to show them that I'm responsible! And I'm gonna prove it right now!" Pinkie exclaimed before zooming out, catching us by surprise.

"Dang it." I muttered. "Oh well...let's go over and get them before they leave."

"Good idea." Kodi nodded before we left the shop and chased after Twilight and Jamie, who were apparently taking their leave.

"Hey!" I called, causing them to turn around and became surprised to see us. 

"R-Ren!" Jamie said in surprise. "W-what brings you here? Did you h-happen to need our h-help?"

"Well yeah. Sorry for what Pinkie said." I rubbed my head bashfully. "I mean, she felt angry that you guys doubt her skills and thought that she wasn't responsible."

"I understand how she feels, but we didn't mean to hurt her feelings." Twilight said, feeling bad for the party pony. "It's just that we just wanted to help her, but it looks like she wants to prove that she's responsible."

"T-true, but she doesn't have t-to take it this f-far." Jamie said, forming a bit of a deadpan expression. "But maybe t-this might become a g-good lesson for her, right Twilight?"

"Well I guess, but we should head back to Sugarcube Corner and see what's up." Twilight suggested as we headed back to Sugarcube Corner. "It must be difficult for her to take care of them, even with you guys helping her. No offense."

"None taken." I shrugged. "But still...those guys are a handful."

"Why couldn't you used the Hacking Gun?" Jamie reminded me.

"Yeah! You could've used it to make those guys stop with all that running." Kodi agreed.

"Well I can't obviously because it might hurt them and such. You guys saw how powerful it was when we face off against some enemies, right?" I pointed out, which they all soon realized.

"You're right...I guess it was s-some stupid stuff I-I came up with." Jamie sighed sadly.

"Don't blame yourself Jamie, ponies make mistakes all the time. Like you said earlier to Pinkie Pie, we're all not perfect." Twilight smiled.

"Y-yeah...you're right." Jamie softly smiled.

"Well either way, we gotta make sure nothing goes wrong." I said as we finally arrived back to Sugarcube Corner and headed inside until we heard some loud crying. "What the heck?!"

"Is it the babies again? Because their wailing have grown louder than last time." Kodi whined.

"No...it doesn't sound like them." I said, knowing for sure what they sound like. "Come on! It's coming upstairs!"

We immediately raced all the way upstairs and entered the Cakes' twins room, only to find Kaede trying to cheer up a crying Pinkie Pie, who was wailing so hard as her tears were literally like water works.

"What the heck's going on here?!" I demanded.

"Yeah, and why is Pinkie Pie crying?" Kodi wondered.

"Oh! Ren! Kodi! I was wondering where you both were!" Kaede said, surprised to see us here before noticing Twilight and Jamie were with us. "Oh, hey Twilight and Jamie. Wasn't expecting you guys to show up."

"We came because we were trying to help out with the babies." Twilight explained while Jamie asked "Just what's happening?"

"Well...while you guys were gone..." Kaede began telling us her story while comforting the crying Pinkie Pie.



Flashback

Kaede was rocking both Pound and Pumpkin Cake to sleep, managing to finally to get their diapers on and now is planning on putting them to sleep. She was humming a song to them, which seems to have take affect.

"Phew...we finally did it, Rosy." Kaede sighed in joy before slowly placing them on their crib as Rosy jumped onto the bed, not waking them up as she grabbed the blanket with her mouth before covering them it to keep them warm.

"Meow..." Rosy smiled before Kaede grabbed her and scratched her underneath the chin.

"Ahh, thanks for the help Rosy. Now we can go rest and-" Kaede was cut-off as Pinkie slammed open the door with a serious look on her face, which surprised Kaede and Rosy because that slamming might've wakened up the babies. They looked over and were in relief to see them still asleep. It was a good thing that they were heavy sleepers, apparently

"P-Pinkie? What are you doing?!" Kaede asked in frustration and shock of seeing her like this.

"Twilight and Jamie came by for a visit." Pinkie answered, walking over to the crib while looking over at the baby ponies. "They said that they wanted to help us take good care of the babies."

"That sounds like a great idea." Kaede brightened up on that idea, which Rosy agreed. "So where are they?"

"...Oh...they're not here." Pinkie replied with a nervous grin.

"What do you mean 'they're not here'?" 

"Well...I may or may not have driven them away." Pinkie grinned nervously, shocking Kaede and Rosy in the process.

"What? W-why would you do that?!" Kaede asked.

"Meow!" Rosy agreed, shocked to even for the pink pony to do something like this.

"S-sorry! I even made Ren upset by doing that. I-I just want to prove that I'm responsible, and that's what I'm about to do!" Pinkie exclaimed before getting shushed by Kaede and Rosy, reminding them of the sleeping foals. "Oops...sorry about that."

"It's okay, but I'm glad that your loud yelling didn't wake up the babies." Kaede sighed in relief before glancing over at the babies, only to find them missing. "Ah! The babies! They're gone!"

"Meow?!" Rosy gasped.

"What?!" Pinkie exclaimed as she immediately looked every in the room, every nook and cranny like crazy while Kaede and Rosy looked underneath the crib for them. Suddenly, they heard loud chewing-like sound coming from the closet. Kaede got up from the ground and slowly walked over to the door, only to be Pumpkin Cake taking a bite of a rubber chicken.

"Oh...you're there." Kaede sighed in relief before widening her eyes in realization. "Wait...how did-"

"There you are!" Pinkie smiled before grabbing Pumpkin Cake up and put her back in her crib and said "You be a good little filly now, Pumpkin-wumpkin, and stay in your crib for your pal Pinkie-winkie!"

Pumpkin Cake didn't mind as she continued to chew her rubber chicken toy as me and Rosy looked at each other in confusion, wondering how the heck did the little pony get in there when the door was closed in the first place?

"Now where's Pound Cake?" Pinkie wondered before walking out of the room, calling out for Pound Cake. "Here, Pound Cake! Come to Auntie Pinkie Pie!"

Suddenly, we heard a giggle coming from him, only problem was that...we didn't see him there.

"Uhh...Pound Cake?" Kaede muttered in worried, looking around the hall through the door. She heard another giggle coming from the little baby, which caused her to shiver a bit. "O-oh...this is just giving me goosebumps."

"Where are you Pound Cake? Pound Cake?" Pinkie looked through the hallways in hopes of finding him while Kaede and Rosy stayed behind, not wanting to be scared than they already are. Soon, Rosy noticed something above them, which made her widened her eyes in shock. Rosy started nudging Kaede, which she finally noticed.

"What? What is it Rosy?" Kaede asked as Rosy pointed up, and once Kaede looked up, she became shocked to see who it was.

"Pound Cake?!" Kaede gaped as she saw that Pound Cake sticking on the ceiling...with his wings fluttering. "Y-you can fly?!"

"Tee-hee!" Pound Cake giggled, seeing Kaede upside down like that from his perspective.

"Pound Cake?!" Pinkie gasped, coming back to the room before noticing Pound Cake on the ceiling  before squealing "You can fly?!"

"That's just what I said, Pinkie." Kaede said, but Pinkie ignored her as she tried jumping up to the ceiling to catch the baby.

"Oh...get...down here...this instant...young...colt!" Pinkie stopped to catch her breath before glaring at Pound Cake. "I'm responsible for you!"

"Pinkie, we have to get him before he gets into more serious trouble." Kaede pointed, which Rosy nodded in agreement. 

"Hmm..." Pinkie thought for a while until she came up with one idea. "Oh! Oh! I got one!"

She immediately zoomed off out of the room, which startled Kaede and Rosy a bit. Suddenly, they started to hear some strange sucking noise as they slowly looked up and became surprised to see Pinkie walking on the ceiling with suction cups on her hooves. She managed to grab Pound Cake into her hooves before walking back down from the wall to the floor.

"Phew...that was a close one." Pinkie sighed in relief.

"...I am not even gonna ask." Kaede said.

"Meow." Rosy agreed, also confused by that. Suddenly, they heard another giggle, but it wasn't from Pound Cake, but from Pumpkin Cake as she continued to giggle as they both witness her horn glowing.

"What the?!" Kaede gasped upon seeing this scene. Pinkie was shocked to see this, dropping Pound Cake out of her mouth as he began hovering in the air again.

"No no no, Pumpkin!" Pinkie shouted, but it was too late as Pumpkin Cake used her horn to levitate some stuff animals around her before one came to her as she started biting onto it.

"Pumpkin! We told you that isn't food!" Kaede exclaimed as Pinkie walked over and took it out of her mouth. However, Pumpkin Cake took another stuffed animal and stuffed it into her mouth.

"No no no, Pumpkin!" Pinkie shook her head before taking it out of her mouth again. However, she did it once again, irritating Pinkie Pie. "No no!"

She took it out of her mouth and grabbed the stuffed animals Pumpkin Cake chewed as she said "Hmph! I am the responsible one, and I said no!"

To make sure it doesn't happen again, she put them in a chest and immediately locked it up with a chain lock.

"You didn't have to go that far, Pinkie." Kaede said, feeling concern for the pink pony.

"Sorry Kay, but right I'm just feeling-Hey!" Pinkie pointed over to Pound Cake, who was fluttering around the room with a smile on his face. "That goes for you too, Pound Cake!"

Pinkie chased after him, jumping around to catch the flying baby Pegasus until she slammed into the wall and fell into the laundry basket, coming out of it with a bib on her head.

"I got it!" Kaede said as she tried to catch Pound Cake, but no matter what, she can't grab her as long as he keeps flying in the air. "Now what?...Hm?" Kaede noticed a butterfly net, which soon gave her an idea. She grabbed it and used it to catch Pound Cake. "Gotcha!"

Suddenly, Pound Cake started flapping his wings more faster and started slowly moving, which soon made Kaede feel a bit scared. "I-I think?" She muttered as Pound Cake started dashing off with Kaede still grasping with the butterfly net as she and Rosy were dragged out of the room and were being hit by the walls over and over before he raced downstairs, causing Kaede to hit the stairs on her butt and was dragged into the kitchen, getting her face hit with every dessert made in it before he dashed through the doors and running back upstairs, getting Kaede hit in the rump once more before racing back to the twins' room as she immediately let go of the butterfly net as Kaede laid on the floor in an exhausted state.

"Man...these two are a handful." Kaede sighed, stretching her back a little. 

"Kay! There's no time for laying around!" She looked up to see Pinkie giving her a serious glare as she continued "We need to stop the twins before they-AH!" Pinkie gasped upon seeing Pumpkin Cake levitating herself as she and her twin brother began flying around the place, which frightened the two.

"Well that isn't good." Kaede muttered.

"No no no! Not you too!" Pinkie exclaimed, showing off a worried look before pouncing at them as she immediately grabbed a basket and covered them inside before using some duct tape around it, just in case they tried to escape. "There! Now who's the responsible one?!"

"P-Pinkie! You can't do that! You're losing your mind!" Kaede exclaimed, seeing the craze-out look on Pinkie's face.

"Am I Kay? Am I?!" Pinkie demanded.

"Yeah..." Kaede said bluntly before noticing Pumpkin walking through the basket using her magic. "What?! I didn't even know she can do that!"

Pinkie looks behind her, only to have the same shocked expression as her while Pound Cake lifted the basket up, destroying the duct tape surrounding it as he threw the basket away and started zooming around the place while Pumpkin used her magic to break the chain lock and started playing around with her stuffed animals. Pinkie widened her eyes, seeing that she has zero control with the twins as her eyes started getting teary.

"P-Pinkie Pie?" Kaede asked in worried as she and Rosy felt really worried for their friend. Soon, Pinkie began the water works.

"WAAAAAAHAAAAAA!" Pinkie began crying over, shocking Kaede and Rosy while the twins' stopped and looked at Pinkie Pie in surprise. 

"Pinkie..." Kaede muttered, feeling guilty about this.
Flashback ended



"Oh no..." I muttered, feeling terrible by that.

"No way...so the twins' did all that?! I've never hear that from the books before!" Jamie exclaimed.

"Even I was surprise, and now look at her." Kaede said as she gazes at Pinkie Pie, who was still crying.

"Y-you guys were right! I am a terrible babysitter! I'm not responsible!" Pinkie whined, making them all feel guilty.

"Pinkie Pie, you aren't a bad babysitter. You were just trying to help." Twilight said, putting a hoof on her shoulder. "Why else did me and Jamie come and try to help you."

"Yeah Pinkie." I nodded in agreement. "Like they said, not everyone are perfect parents and/or guardians. Besides, I think the twins' got something to say to you."

I looked over to see the twins' walking over to Pinkie Pie, who noticed them as she tried to wiped away her tears. Pumpkin's horn started to glow, levitating another bag of flour. Okay seriously? What is up with the bag of flours today?! Just how many are there?!

PLOOF!

The twins' soon covered their bodies with flour, making apologetic smiles to Pinkie. Apparently, it started to work as she started giggling, bringing back her cheery self.

"You know what? You're right. That is funny." Pinkie giggled.

"...Those babies are quite smart." Kodi commented, which we all agreed.

"Intriguing..." Jamie said, writing down notes in his notebook. "You know, this is quite a great lesson, don't you agree T-Twilight?"

"Exactly Jamie!" Twilight nodded before turning to her pink pony friend and asked "So Pinkie, are you alright now?"

"Yeah, thanks you guys." Pinkie smiled. She grabbed both Pound and Pumpkin Cake and snuggled them both as she said "And thank you both for cheering me up."

Pound and Pumpkin Cake let out winks before letting out yawns and started drifting to sleep.

"Ahh...they're finally asleep." Kaede grinned.

"Well we should clean them up and make the place clean up. I've kinda noticed some smudges in the kitchen when we walked in." I grinned while rubbing my head bashfully.

"Good point." Kaede nodded in agreement before grabbing the twins' from Pinkie's hooves and gently laid them down on the bed. She then kissed them both from the forehead, getting some flour stuck on her mouth. She let out a light chuckle before wiping it off and said "Well, now that's settled. Let's go clean up the mess downstairs."

"And also about your clothes..." I pointed at her clothes, seeing them getting dirty, which she finally noticed.

"Oh...right." Kaede chuckled nervously while rubbing her cheek in embarrassment. We all let out chuckles, seeing her finally noticed her clothes. Oh well, guess our day...didn't go out as planned, but at least we managed to get them to calm down at least.



Later
Dear Princess Celestia,
I've always had fun playing with little kids, and I thought babysitting meant just more playtime, right? Wrong! Being a caregiver is way more responsibility than just being a playmate. And today, I learned that sometimes our desire for responsibility can outrun our actual ability to handle it.

"Now that's a wonderful lesson you have learned, Pinkie Pie." Twilight smiled as we finally finished up cleaning up the kitchen and such. Pinkie went to washed Kaede's clothes, leaving her only in her pink button shirt.

"Y-yeah. I even covered it up." Jamie agreed, finishing writing the lesson. "W-we'll go over and send it later, r-right Twilight?"

"You bet Jamie!" Twilight smiled, causing Jamie to blush a bit. "But now that we're finish, we should get going. We'll see you guys tomorrow."

"Bye you guys!" I waved goodbye to them as they took their leave while me and Kodiak finished up cleaning the floors using sponges and wash rags. "Phew...it took almost midnight, but we finally did it."

"Yup! So when do you guys think Mr. and Mrs. Cake will come back?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Don't know. They said they had to delivered it all the way to Canterlot." Kaede shrugged. Suddenly, they heard the door opened, revealing to be the Cakes.

"Pinkie Pie! Ren! Kaede! We're back!" Mr. Cake shouted.

"How did everything go?" Mrs. Cake asked before letting out a gasp, seeing the place spotless.

"Oh hey you guys." Kaede greeted them with a soft smile.

"Are we in the right place?" Mr. Cake asked, feeling awe upon seeing the place all cleaned and no smudges.

"Shh!" Pinkie shushed them, coming out of the laundry room. "You'll wake the babies!"

"The babies?" Mr. and Mrs. Cake asked in unison. She gestured them to follow her upstairs as we walked up to the twins' room as she slowly opened the room, seeing the twins' relaxing in their sleep.

"P-Pinkie, Ren, Kaede. This is just...just..." Mrs. Cake stuttered, unable to process what to say.

"That we done an awesome job?" Kodi asked, smiling happily.

"Exactly!" Mr. Cake agreed before covering his mouth, hoping not to wake up the twins before clearing his throat and said "We had no idea how responsible you really are."

"Ahh, it was nothing." I rubbed my head bashfully before saying "But you know, it was all Pinkie Pie. I mean, she was the one who helped us get to understand them."

"Really?" Mrs. Cake asked in surprise.

"Yeah!" Kaede nodded with a smile. "She's been a great help with us."

"Ren...Kaede..." Pinkie gasped before giving us a big hug and said "Thank you guys so much! You two are the bestest friends a pony could ever asked!"

"Thanks Pinkie." I thanked with a smile.

"And we were just helping out." Kaede added with a light chuckle.

"Say, would you three be interested in becoming our go-to babysitter on a permanent basis?" Mr. Cake asked, causing us all to look at each other in shock.

"W-well...can't. I think Pinkie Pie would fulfill the role." I suggested.

"Yeah! She knows the twins' more than us." Kaede agreed with a nervous grin and sweat-dropped.

"She's the best after all." Kodi added.

"Meow!" Rosy nodded.

"Hm? Ah...lemme check my schedule!" Pinkie took out a piece of paper out of her mane and looked through it. "I should be available a week from...never!"

Before any of us could say something, we heard the twins' snuggling with each other and hearing some words we never thought we would hear.

"Pinkie..." 

"Pie..." Pound Cake and Pumpkin Cake muttered, causing Pinkie to happily gasp.

"Aww..." Kaede cooed.

"I have some free time next Tuesday." Pinkie smiled.

"Well I guess so. But still, thanks you two. Here." Mrs. Cake took out some bits out of her pockets. "You two deserves this."

Me and Kaede looked at each other as I said "Sorry, but I think we're good."

"Ren's right. We were just helping out, that's all. I was just being generous, that's all." Kaede smiled happily.

"Oh, I see. But still, you two done a wonderful job." Mrs. Cake smiled.

"Well we gotta go, bye." I waved goodbye as we planned to head out before I stopped and realized something. "By the way, you guys said that you were making a special delivery at Canterlot, right? It sure looks like a big delivery."

"Oh, it's for a special event at Canterlot. Sorry, we can't say much. It's a secret." Mr. Cake winked.

"I see. Just asking. See ya." A special event? Wonder what could it be? Maybe next time when we see Princess Celestia once more, I can ask her myself. 

"Oh right Rennie and Kay! Here ya go!" Pinkie threw us two sweaters at us, which apparently were washed clean.

"Our sweaters?" I asked in surprise. 

"Yep! They're clean nicely just like ya wanted to!" Pinkie grinned, causing us to smile happily at her.

"Thanks Pinkie!" Kaede thanked.

"Anytime Kay and Rennie!" Pinkie chuckled as we put them over our shoulders and decided to say goodnight to our friends and leaving the shop.

As me, Kaede, Kodi, and Rosy took our leave, Kaede let out a sigh of relief and said "Well that's a relief. Who knew taking care a couple of baby ponies was so hard. I liked them better when they were small."

"Tell me about it. Who knew they could cry that loudly. I think my ears nearly gone deaf." Kodi sighed.

"Oh well, at least it was fun taking care of them." I smiled, surprising them. "I mean, we managed to get the Cakes' see that Pinkie is responsible...in her own way of course."

"Yeah, that is true. I'm so glad that the Cakes' twins made her smile again." Kaede chuckled. "But do you think Mason and Carrie are wondering where we are?"

"Seems so. But Mason is pretty a reasonable guy, so I'm sure he'll understand our reasons." I assured with a soft grin.



Later
"You two were what?!" 

Me, Kaede, and Kodi sweat-dropped in defeat while Rosy tilted her head in confusion.

"Heh heh...too soon?" I asked, rubbing my head bashfully while Mason gave us a stern look.

"You two are gonna have a little talk with me with walking out like that." Mason said sternly. We gulped as we both fearfully looked at each other in fear. Yep, should've seen this coming.
To Be Continued
> Chapter 43 - The Last Roundup!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“How long till we finished up Mason?” I asked, feeling tired of doing chores.

“Almost done.” Mason answered while washing the dishes. “This punishment serves you both right for leaving the home without letting me know.”

“Come on Mason! We were just helping the Cakes with babysitting the twins’! I mean, they looked really desperate on finding a babysitter to watch over them.” Kaede complained, getting tired of mopping the floors of the dining hall. 

“While I understand your reason, just at least leave a note to let me know where you two went.” Mason said sternly. “Me and Carrie were wondering where you’ve two been all day.”

“More like you were worried about them Mason.” Carrie reminded him, cleaning off the windows. “I was having faith in them and kept telling ya that they were probably alright.”

“W-well…”

“Mason, it’s okay.” I assured with a soft grin. “You were just worried and you were right. We should’ve just told you guys where you’ve been.”

Mason sighed before forming a sad and guilty look before saying “You are right, Ren. I shouldn’t have felt worried. I guess it was just my instinct, that’s all.”

“Well we deserved it in the end, so I see why not.” I chuckled.

“Ren’s right. But it was worth it to watch over the Cakes’ twins. They were cute, but troublesome at the same time.” Kaede stated.

“Yeah, and sure know how to nearly get a dog to go deaf, apparently.” Kodi added, laying in his makeshift bed with Rosy by his side. 

Apparently, it was the day after we decided to play babysitters with Pumpkin and Pound Cake, and Mason was really angry with us leaving without notifying him, and as punishment, we were to do his chores in the morning. Right now, we cleaned every part of the home-ship. Our rooms, the bathrooms, the closets, and even the kitchen and living room. Man, it feels so tiring…But then again, I guess you can say that we sorta deserved it in the end. We should’ve left a note for Mason and Carrie to let us know where we were. But anywho, right now, I’m already finishing up scrubbing the kitchen floors. 

“Alright, we’re done.” Kaede sighed in relief, putting down the mop. 
“Well I hope you both learned your lessons.” Mason said, crossing his arms. 

“Well it’s kinda no fair since Kodiak and Rosy didn’t do them.” I pointed out.

“That’s because they’re animals, and they haven’t done anything wrong but go with you two anywhere you go since you are their owners/friends, correct?”

“Well…the way he says it, he’s not wrong.” Kaede agreed.

“Well alright.” They do have points about this, and I guess I was going too far with this. “Since we’re done…” I brightened up a smile and offered “You guys wanna hang? We got plenty of time now.” 

“I appreciate the offer, but I rather resume my training. Right now, I’m behind with my meditation.” Mason said with a serious expression. 

“Same here, I probably should go and help out Rarity with some more clothes.” Kaede added.

“Well I kinda got nothing to do since it’s the weekend.” Carrie agreed sadly. 
“I-I see…” I sighed with a disappointed look. Man, we’ve been pretty busy this last several months, haven’t we? It’s kinda sad, really. Oh well, I guess I can work on my paintings. Speaking about them, I remember a certain promise back then to one Pegasus…. “Oh well…I guess I’ll work on some paintings. Need to get back in the business right now.”

“That’s a good idea.” Mason shrugged before we heard the door knocked. “I’ll go answer it.”

Mason went over to answered as he opened the door, revealing Twilight and Jamie as the latter greeted them.

“H-hello there guys…” 

“Hey Jamie, Twilight, what’s up?” I greeted them back with a smile.

“We just came by to ask you guys to come over to Ponyville for a little celebration.” Twilight explained, catching the others’ attention.
“Really? On what occasion?” I asked.

“You see, Applejack is about to compete in a rodeo competition over by the next town from Ponyville, and we’re setting up a going away party to celebrate her winning the competition to fix up the mayor’s roof.” 

“Really? It can’t be that bad, right?” Kodi asked curiously.

“T-trust us. W-we’ve seen it and it’s m-much worse.” Jamie stated.

“Well I can help. I mean, I can paint a great portrait for Applejack to enjoy.” I shrugged with a soft smile.

“That’s great to hear!” Twilight smiled. “Come along, we’ve got a lot of work to do.”

Well, it’s beat than staying alone and being bored around here.

“Hold on, I have a job to take care of back at Sweet Apple Acres.” Mason stated.

“Oh, about that…” Jamie glanced away nervously as he said “A-About that…it’s just that…Applejack c-closed up the farm for today due to doing some training for the r-rodeo competition.”

“What?!” Mason asked in surprise.

“Well hey! At least you can take a break at least.” Kaede smiled.

“Don’t worry! You can still work by tomorrow! She’s just training today and doesn’t need some distraction. You can work tomorrow.” Twilight insisted.

“…Alright.” Mason sighed.

“Don’t worry big brother, you’ll get your chance tomorrow.” Carrie assured, holding onto his hand, causing him to smile softly at his sister.

“W-well anyway…should we go now o-or give you more time?” Jamie asked timidly. 

“Don’t worry, we’ll go now. Besides, I need to catch up with Rarity on some new clothesline I thought about working on.” Kaede giggled.

“Kaede, Rarity closed up shop as well, so you can’t work today because she and the others are busy helping out at the mayor’s hall.” Twilight pointed out, shocking Kaede.

“No way!” Kaede gaped. “Is the mayor’s office cracking apart really that serious?”

“Indeed…” Twilight nodded with a sad sigh before smiling brightly and said “But don’t worry! Applejack will surely win the prize money to pay off new additions to the mayor’s office.”

“You seemed pretty sure of yourself.” Kodi pointed out.

“W-well, Applejack is quite an impressive runner due to the many working she does as a farmer like her leg muscles are quite strong and Earth ponies are quite known for their strength and have the ability to easily grow crops…” Jamie muttered loudly, not knowing that we overheard him.

“Makes sense since she is the strongest out of all of us.” Carrie said with a smile. “Well…the second strongest of course.”

“I take it the first strongest is your brother?” I asked with a smirk. Carrie nodded while Mason blushed a bit and replied “K-knock it off, Carrie. I’m not that stronger as her.”

“But you are! I mean, you knock every single apple off a tree whenever you use a high jump kick or karate chop or any cool moves you know!” Carrie pointed out, causing him to feel embarrassed.

“W-well even so…I was just helping out since it is my job to help out the others, not to show off strength.” Mason pointed out.

“Well come on everyone! Let’s go check it out and see what we can do.” I said with a smile as we began heading over to Ponyville. But seriously though, the mayor’s office is in bad shape that involves almost everypony in town, including our friends to pinch in and help out? How bad can it be?



Later

“See, it looks fine to me.” I pointed, seeing the mayor’s hall all nice and tidy.
“Take a look up there.” Twilight pointed her hoof upwards as we looked higher and jaw-dropped upon seeing the top part of the tower had been broken off.

“What? How in the world did this happened?!” Kodi gaped.

“W-we don’t know, but your guess is good as m-mine.” Jamie explained, writing down in his journal. “I’m writing down stuff we need to pay for the renovations of the mayor’s office.”

“You seemed pretty prepare for this, eh Jamie?” Kaede asked.

“I-it was nothing, I-I was just helping out.” Jamie stated. “Besides…it’s t-the least I-I can do…”

“Well I think you’re doing a great job Jamie.” Twilight smiled, causing Jamie to glance away and blush at her compliment.

“Y-yes…thank you for the compliment T-Twilight…” Jamie muttered.

“Well either way, I say this place needs to get spot clean.” I commented before noticing a banner being hung on and it had a sketch of a chibi-like Applejack on it, plus with apple-like insignias’ on them. “Huh, guess we’re having another appreciation day for AJ.”

“Huh? So Applejack had one before?” Kaede asked curiously. I smiled and replied “Yep, it was during the first few weeks I spent here in Equestria, and Applejack saved the town from a stampede of cows. Since then, everypony decided to celebrate and let me tell you…that week was quite something.”

I’m still grimacing on every disaster from what Applejack caused due to her lack of sleep during that Apple-Buck season thing. Ugh, just thinking about that just gives me a headache.

“This town must really trusts her to do this, huh?” Mason thought aloud. “I mean, they’re believing on Applejack winning that rodeo competition. I get it, but don’t you think the civilians are putting too much faith on her?”

“Nonsense Mason, we’re just showing our appreciation to her.” Twilight assured with a soft grin.

“W-well…maybe he has a point.” Jamie couldn’t help but agreed with Mason as he continued “I mean, what if she doesn’t w-wins?”

“Jamie, you gave out a fine description of her great strength due to working on Sweet Apple Acres, so I think she’ll do well. She won’t let us down.” 

“Y-you’re right…sorry.” Jamie apologized with a sad look. “I-I didn’t mean to upset you.”

Twilight sighed before forming a soft grin at him and said “I wasn’t upset Jamie, I was just reminding you what you said. Trust me, after spending time with the gang for all these months, I know Applejack will win it.”

“Well…alright.” Jamie nodded.

“I still think the town is putting too much faith on her, that’s for sure.” Mason said, crossing his arms with a raised brow.

“Don’t worry big brother, I’m gonna believed in her on winning the prize money to help fix the tower.” Carrie assured. Suddenly, we heard some grunting as Rainbow Dash and some grey Pegasus pony with blonde mane and tail coming out of the floor, which we noticed had holes in them. Okay, how did we miss that?

“Sorry.” The grey Pegasus apologized.

“Look! Just stop it! Alright?! Just go over to the other side and do something else.” Rainbow yelled.

“Whoa whoa whoa, what’s the problem?” I asked, stepping up with a curious expression.

“Nothing, just Rainbow Dash yelling at me to leave out of the scene, that’s all.” The grey pony explained.

“And why’s that?” I asked.

“Because she keeps messing up!” Rainbow exclaimed, causing the grey pony to glance away in sadness. 

“But Dash, I’m sure it was an accident. Everybody makes accidents.” I assured until Rainbow gave me a frustrated look and exclaimed “Yeah! But not this pony! Every time Derpy tries to help out like in weather scheduling, moving clouds and other types of stuff, she always screw its up!”

“Derpy?” I turned to the grey Pegasus, who waved at me with a soft grin. 

“Yep, the name’s Derpy Hooves. Mail delivery pony of the Ponyville Mail express!” She introduced herself with a meek smile. It’s sounds like a cruel name now that you think about it. Wait…that name..

“Wait…that name. Isn’t that the name of the Pegasus who accidentally led the geese to go to west instead of north?” I wondered aloud.

“Yep. She’s the one!” Rainbow nodded, causing Derpy to grimace about that.

“Y-you don’t have to remind me of that. It was an accident.” Derpy sighed sadly.

“Hey, don’t take it that far Derpy.” I assured with a soft grin. “I mean, not everypony is perfect. We all make accidents.”

“Some, unlike me.” Rainbow boasted, causing me to give her a deadpan look. Yeah, sure you are.
“Anyway…” I turned back to Derpy with a soft grin and continued “Don’t let Dash get ya down. Just keep on trying and you’ll do great.”
“Thanks Ren!” Derpy smiled, her eyes turning around.

“What the?!” I exclaimed. 

“What?” She tilted her head in confusion.

“Y-your eyes…umm…”

“Oh right…don’t worry, they’re fine. I just like being crossed-eye.” Wait what? So is she saying that she isn’t crossed-eye? “Here, watch!”

She blinked twice, her eyes returning back to normal, which surprised me in awe.

“Whoa…that’s pretty cool!” I commented.

“How on Equestria did she do that?” Kodi whispered to me, which I shrugged.

“Not impressive.” Rainbow rolled her eyes.

“Rainbow Dash, just stop.” Mason said with a stern look, coming to my side. “Just give her a chance and stop being rude. I can name a few stuff that you’ve done for the past several months.”

“Ugh, fine!” Rainbow crossed her hooves in annoyance. 

“Ahh, thanks everypony.” Derpy smiled before blinking twice, returning her eyes back being crossed-eye.

“Whoa…how?” I asked.
“I don’t know. It’s just happens when I was a filly.” Derpy chuckled.

“I see…by the way, how do you know my name?” 

“Oh that’s easy! Everypony in Equestria knows you! You and the weird fella with the red scarf are a part of a new species in Equestria.” Derpy answered.

“Well…that makes sense. Count as defeating Nightmare Moon and Discord, of course.” I chuckled with a smile.

“Yep!” 

“Did…she call me a weird fella?” Mason asked in a dry tone. Before we could answer, we heard a crowd chanting over by the other side of the mayor’s office. 

“Oh! They’re starting already! See ya!” Derpy waved goodbye before flying over to join on the festivities.

“Wow, already? But we just arrived.” Kaede stated.

“W-well, they are hard and fast workers.” Jamie pointed out. “I’ve been studying them for a while after helping Twilight out with her books at the library.”

“Well we don’t wanna miss out on this!” Kodi exclaimed.

“Meow!” Rosy agreed, laying down on Kaede’s left shoulder.

“Yeah! Let’s go big brother!” Carrie grabbed her brother’s hand and began dragging him towards the crowd.

“H-hey! Carrie!” Mason exclaimed as he was dragged along with her.

“Well shall we?” Twilight asked.

“Sure, I see why not.” I nodded as we headed off towards the crowd as they continued to stomp their hooves onto the ground with excited smiles on their faces as they kept chanting “Applejack! Applejack! Applejack! Applejack! Applejack!”
“Wow, the crowd’s really pumped up.” Kaede commented with a surprised look.
“Indeed.” Jamie nodded with a serious expression. “It makes sense due to Applejack’s help around town.”

“Can’t argue with that.” Mason agreed. “I’ve known her for quite a while, but I’ve never knew that ponies here had this much faith with her.” He then turned to me and asked “Were they like this from when you came?”

“Yeah, and they were quite giving for her that they gave her a trophy.” I replied with a smile.

“Hey! We help out too from stuff like a stampede! Why don’t we get awards?” Carrie pouted.

“You know, she’s got us there.” Kodi smirked. You know, I never really thought of that. 

“Everypony! Can I please get your attention? Attention please!” Mayor Mare shouted through the mic, causing everypony to stop chanting. She then cleared her throat before smiling and said “Yes, we are all here to send Applejack to compete in this year’s Equestria Rodeo competiton Canterlot.”

Applejack walked up the stage with a confident smile on her face, causing the crowd to cheer into hysterics.

“And I want to thank Applejack in advance for generously offering up her prize money to fix town hall.” 

“Yeah, Applejack! Woo-hoo!” I heard Derpy cheered for her, which help brought out a smile on her face. 

“Speech! Speech!” Huh? Was that Pinkie Pie? I could’ve sworn that was her.

“Oh, shucks. I’m not much for speeches.” Applejack said, rubbing her head bashfully.

“Alright then, no speech!” I then felt somepony speeding past me, which caught me by surprise. Whoa, I’m really sure that was Pinkie Pie.

“Did anybody feel that?” Kodi asked in surprise.

“I taste t-that.” Jamie commented with a sigh.

“Buuut!” Applejack gave us a happy smile and said “This here is the nicest send off anypony could ask for. You all have been cheering me on in every rodeo since I was a little little pony.” Whoa, so she’s been competing in every rodeo competition since she was a little girl? That’s quite impressive for somepony like her. But then again, it’s Applejack. She always been known for her honesty, great apple-selling prices across Equestria, and her apple-bucking skills. Is there more that she can’t do? “So it seems only fitting to use my winnings to fix up town hall. I promise to make Ponyville proud.”

And with the end of her speech, everypony let out a cry of cheering at Applejack while the rest of us smiled at her.

“And she says that she doesn’t give out speeches.” I nudged Mason, who was rolling his eyes at me and said “Says you.”

“Hey! I give out great speeches!” I yelled out in offensive.

“Ren’s right. He always cheers us on and supports us to no end.” Kaede agreed.

“Y-yeah…he does.” Jamie nodded, glancing away.

“Well…true. But he’s still a little kid, that’s all.” Mason shrugged.

“I’m 15 who’s about to turn 16 in several months!” I retorted.

“Whatever…” Mason rolled his eyes.

“But wait, hasn’t a year past for someone like you?” Jamie asked. “Wouldn’t you be 16 by now?”

“Well…I’ve turned 15 before I somehow got here in Equestria from that pod.” I pointed out. “So I’m still 15 by now.”

“I-I see…sorry.” Jamie sighed.

Though, he has a point. A whole year has passed, but when I arrived to Equestria, I think it was a week after my birthday back in my world. So…ugh, the time here in Equestria is so confusing. But yeah, sure a year has passed, but it hasn’t hit summer yet, it wasn’t even June yet, so technically, I’m still 15…I think.



Later

Well, guess it’s time for AJ to head off towards Canterlot to win that competition for the mayor’s office. We all were standing on the Ponyville Train Station’s platforms, ready to bid farewell to AJ.

“I want you to show all them highfalutin rodeo ponies what a real rodeo pony’s like!” Granny Smith exclaimed, supporting her granddaughter.

“Heh heh…you betcha, Granny Smith.” Applejack replied.

“And bring back all that money!” Mayor Mare added, pushing Granny Smith aside as she gave the farm pony a smile on her face.

“You betcha, Mayor!”

“And have fun!” Pinkie said as she continued “And don’t be nervous. Or if you are, use that nervous energy to do even better than you already would! And eat peanuts and popcorn and taffy gives lots of nervous energy!” 

She pulls out a bag full of taffy candy before stuffing it into her mouth as we gave her confused and blank looks.

“…What is she even saying?” Mason asked.

“I have n-no clue.” Jamie answered. “I’m starting to give up on ever learning about her…”

Well that’s a good start for you at least, Jamie.

“Just do your best, Applejack.” Twilight smiled at her friend, who replied “I’ll do better than my best!”

“Good luck AJ, I know you can do it.” I cheered.

“Yeah, and don’t let them get the better of ya.” Kaede added.

“We’re rooting for ya!” Kodi supported with a happy bark.

“We’ll be cheering for you to the end!” Carrie added.

“Like Twilight said, do your best.” Mason smiled while crossing his arms.

“Heh heh, thanks everypony.” Applejack smiled.

“The train to Canterlot is about to leave! All aboard who’s coming aboard!” We heard the conductor announced.

“Guess that means me.” Applejack said as she began stepping into the train.

“See ya in a week!” Rainbow shouted.

“With lots of new blue ribbons!” Apple Bloom added, smiling at her older sister.

“And lots of money!” Mayor Mare exclaimed in joy. With that, the train began moving as Applejack popped out of the window and waved goodbye to us as she shouted “Darn tooting! See you all in a week, with a big bag full of blue ribbons!”

“See ya AJ!” I waved goodbye as we all began running to catch up to the train before it took its leave straight towards Canterlot. Man, she just left and yet, I’m starting to miss her already. Oh well, wished we came along to her trip to celebrate the competition with her.

“And drink sarsaprarilla!” We all gave Pinkie some deadpanned and confused looks by what she said. “What? It gives you extra sass.”
“No, it doesn’t.” Jamie pointed out.

“Hmm…” Mason gazed where the train last took off, already in deep thought.

“Something wrong Mason?” I asked curiously.

“It’s just that…I can’t help but feel worried about Applejack. She tensed up when everypony kept praising her on winning the rodeo competition.” Mason explained, crossing his arms with a serious look.

“What? She didn’t look that tensed up.” I shrugged.

“Maybe not from your perspective, but from mine.” Mason stated. “I feel worried on her winning the competition, that’s all. What if she doesn’t?”
“Well yeah, you make a good point there.” I couldn’t help but agree with him there. “But all we gotta do is just keep believing in her, right?”

Mason went silent on that before letting out a heavy sigh and said “I see why not. We’ll wait.”

“Come on everypony! Let’s go set up a surprise party for Applejack’s return!” Pinkie yelled.

“Huh? So soon?!” Kaede asked in surprise.

“Well you know Pinkie Pie, she always loves doing this kind of stuff.” Twilight chuckled nervously.

“Well I think that’ll be lovely to do.” Fluttershy insisted.

“Flutters’ right. We should do one for AJ when she comes home.” I agreed with a smile.

“B-but this so soon? A-are we sure about that?” Jamie asked curiously. “I-I mean, why not until the end of the week when she comes back home?”
“Jamie raises a good point.” Rarity agreed with him as she continued “I mean, it would be a waste on setting it up so soon and leave it like that until she comes back from a week.”

“Oh, that won’t be a problem!” Pinkie insisted before looking over…wait, what is she looking at? “Mr. writer sir, do you mind if you timeskip this please? Just this once!”

We all couldn’t help but raised a brow at her, wondering who she’s talking to. Writer? Time-skip? 
Jamie blinked in confusion before asking “Umm…Pinkie Pie. Who are you-”



One Week Later

And so, a week went by apparently fast and we were at the farmhouse preparing for Applejack’s welcome back party. What’s better is that some relatives of Applejack came and joined on the fun, wanting to celebrate Applejack’s win on the rodeo competition. They were pretty nice folks, I gotta say. It makes sense since Applejack did come from a nice family. Anyway, we were busy off setting the place with decorations with the same banner we used on Applejack’s appreciation thing last week when we gave her the send-off to Canterlot. While the week past, I had time to finish up a little ‘something’ for AJ, just as she promised. Anyway, me, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash just finished placing on the banner as I finished setting the balloons.

“Oh, I hope Applejack is surprised by this surprise party!” Fluttershy said with a soft but excited grin.

“I know she would Flutters.” I happily agreed on that.

“Well, that is the point.” Rainbow pointed.

“We know...” Fluttershy nodded before catching the the end of the streamer that Rainbow threw to her. “But we hope she isn’t so surprised she’s startled, because whole being surprised can be nice, being startled can be…very startling.” 

“Well true, I sometimes get startled sometimes when someone gives me a surprise.” I chuckled.

“SURPRISE!” GAH! I suddenly lost balance from the ladder and fell down real hard on my back while confetti landed on my body. 

“What the?” I muttered, rubbing my back.

“Oh Ren! Are you alright?” Fluttershy asked, floating down to help me up.

“I think so, but who just shouted ‘SURPRISE!’ like that to me?” Wait, why am I even asking? There’s only one pony who would’ve done that to me and its-

“SURPRISE!” What the?! I looked back to see Pinkie throwing confetti at me and Fluttershy while giving us a tooth-eating grin.

“Oh…it’s just you Pinkie Pie.” I smiled. “You nearly gave me a heart attack.”

“Sorry!” Pinkie apologized. “I was just practicing my ‘surprise!’ for when we surprise Applejack with this super cool party for becoming rodeo champion of Equestria!”

“Rodeo champion of Equestria?” Kodi questioned with a raise brow, putting down a streamer on the ground with his teeth.

“Well yeah! She wins, like, every rodeo competition every year! So of course I would call her that!” Pinkie replied.

“Well you nearly gave us a fright.” Fluttershy commented.

“Sorry! I just really like yelling that word out!” To prove her point, she suddenly disappeared in a flash before we heard a ‘SURPRISE!’ right behind us, finding Pinkie between us and throwing more confetti at us.

“H-hey!” I exclaimed.

“Pinkie Pie!” Jamie yelled, holding onto a clipboard. “You know that the confetti isn’t something you use to play with. We need to save some amount for when we surprise Applejack.”

“Sorry.” Pinkie smiled before walking off.

“Wow…that’s a first.” I commented, confusing Fluttershy.

“What?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“It’s just that…I’ve never heard Jamie say something without stuttering.” I guess when he’s giving us a lesson from his loud mutterings or tell’s us himself in a loud enough voice, it gives him confidence. That’s nice to hear, but I just wished sometimes he can always feel confident in himself. I just can’t help but have this shaking feeling that Jamie has some trouble being confident and determined…unless it’s something like this.

“I guess you’re right.” Fluttershy agreed. “Seeing Jamie nervous sometimes almost makes me brave.”

“But you are brave Flutters, and don’t ever forget that.” I smiled, causing her to smile back at me.

“Hey, I think I hear somepony coming!” Kaede announced, looking out the door.

“Meow!” Rosy said in alarmed, sitting on Kaede’s shoulder.

“It must be Applejack! Quick everyone! Hide!” Twilight shushed as everypony went out to hide in their hiding spots.

I gave Fluttershy a quick kiss on the cheek before hiding behind a crate with Twilight, Jamie, Kodiak and Rarity.

“Don’t worry Twilight. Got my lips all limbered up.” I took a peek over to see Pinkie Pie making some really odd faces with her lips, which caused me to roll my eyes at her. Oh good old Pinkie Pie…

Soon, everyone began to hide like Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash hide in the nest of hay above the barn, Mason, Carrie, Kaede hid behind the back of the barn while Big Mac, Apple Bloom, and Granny Smith hid behind a table. Somepony then turned off the lights as we all hid behind our choice of surfaces. Once the door opened, the lights immediately turned on and we all revealed ourselves.

“SURPRISE!” We all shouted in joy.

“SURPRISE!” Pinkie Pie, yelled, only to realize that she was a second too late. “Shoot.”

“Wait…what?” Mason asked, seeing who in front of the door. I looked over to see it wasn’t Applejack, but some mail delivery pony, he looked pretty lanky and taller than an average pony, I’ll admit.

“Wow, this is the best surprise ever!” The mail pony exclaimed. “How did you know it was my birthday?”

“Umm…we didn’t. S-sorry sir, but it’s for somepony else we know.” Jamie stated, causing him to feel depressed as he rubbed his hoof on the ground.

“Oh…sorry.” He sighed.

“But why not have some cake along the well? To cheer ya up.” Carrie handed him some cake, causing him to lick his lips and smiled happily.

“Wow! Thanks!” He exclaimed before taking something out of his bag. “Oh yeah, I came by with a special letter from one Applejack.”

“Oh…thank you s-sir.” Jamie softly smiled before receiving the letter and closing the door and I could’ve sworn we heard a ‘Woo-hoo!’ from the mailpony. I guess it came from the mailpony.

“You’re too kind, Carrie.” Mason smiled at his sister, who let out a smile and blush a bit.

“Who’s it from, Jamie? What’s it say?” Apple Bloom asked in excitement.

“It’s from A-Applejack.” Jamie answered before taking it out of the envelope and started to read the letter aloud. “Family and friends, not coming back to Ponyville.” Wait what?!

“Won’t come back?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“You’re kidding, right?” Kaede asked incredulous.

“N-no, it says it right here.” Jamie showed us the letter, feeling nervous due to our outbursts. I narrowed my eyes at the letter and started reading it the last part of them.

“…Don’t worry, will send money soon.” That’s all there is.“ I said with a worried look.

Everypony gasped again in shock.

“Applejack’s…not coming back?” Apple Bloom questioned, feeling sad after hearing that.

“What do you mean Applejack’s not coming back?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed angrily, lashing it out on Jamie. “She loves Ponyville!”

“And she loves Sweet Apple Acres!” Granny Smith added.

“And she loves her family!” Apple Bloom finished with a sad and depressed look.

“I-I don’t know…” Jamie answered with a scared and worried expression. “S-sorry.”

“Don’t apologize Jamie, it wasn’t your fault.” Twilight assured, patting him on the back, which made him smile a bit.

“I don’t get it, what’s making her not wanna come back to Ponyville?” Kodi asked.

“I don’t know…” I shrugged before wondering “You don’t think something happened in Canterlot that’s preventing her from coming home, right?”

“Oh! It must be Ren!” Rarity gasped. “Oh, something just dreadful must have happened to Applejack to make her not return.”

“Yeah…” Mason agreed, crossing his arms in thought. 

“Maybe she’s hurt, or sad, or scared!” Fluttershy offered, feeling more worried of our friend.

“So, what are we waiting for? Let’s go find her!” Rainbow Dash yelled before flying out of the barn doors.

“W-wait! Already?!” Jamie asked in surprise.

“Yeah! We have to find Applejack and see if she’s alright!” Carrie exclaimed, running out of the barndoor.

“Carrie! Wait!” Mason yelled, chasing after her.

“So what now?” Kodi asked. I thought for a while until I made a determined look on my face and took out my Hacking Gun and said “We’re going to Canterlot and find Applejack and bring her back home.”

Kodi let out a smirk and said “Alright, I’m in!”

“W-well…I-I’ll come too…if you want.” Jamie twiddled his fingers.

“Of course you are! Let’s go!” Kaede grabbed his tie and began dragging him outside.

“H-hey wait! Not the tie! It’s one of a kind!” Jamie yelled in exasperation.

“Don’t worry!” Twilight assured the Apple Family with a determined and serious expression as she continued “We’ll search all of Equestria if we have to. We’ll bring her back.”

“You all are the best!” Apple Bloom smiled, happy to hear that we’ll bring back Applejack back to her home…No, our home.

“Yeah! And we won’t rest till we find her!” I added until I heard a yawn coming out of Kodiak’s mouth, causing me to look at him.

“What? It was just a yawn.” Kodi shrugged.

“Okay…let’s go!” I yelled before we all ran out of the barn and headed to the train station. We have to find out what happened to her and where she went! If something indeed happened to Applejack, then I hope we prepare ourselves on what we might come across.



Later

You know, it’s quite nice to be back in Canterlot, but right now, we got a mission on our hands and/or hooves and its finding Applejack! We soon managed to arrive to the stadium where the rodeo competition is said to be held.

Hmm…So this is the stadium where Applejack said to be competing in, and that’s where we began to search out anyone who could’ve possibly seen her. Before we left, I managed to grab my hover-board with me, just so we can have a faster search.

Me and Fluttershy went over to a pony, who was lazily laying on a roof. 

“Umm, excuse me sir? Have you seen this pony around?” I asked, showing him a photo of Applejack apple-bucking a tree. However, he tipped his hat off and flipped his hoof at us, gesturing us to leave. “Rude as much.”

“Umm…sir? We really need to find our friend as soon as possible!” Fluttershy begged.

He looked away us while tilting his hat to cover his eyes like he wants to take a nap or something. I resist the urge to use my Hacking Gun on him, not wanting to spark out a grudge with him.

“Let’s just leave him Fluttershy, he’s just won’t help.” I sighed, which she nodded before we floated down to the ground, meeting up with Kodiak.

“So, any luck?” Kodi asked. 

“Not one bit.” I shook my head, much to his disappointment.

“I-I see…” Fluttershy walked over and scratched underneath his chin, causing him to pant happily as she said “Don’t worry, we’ll find Applejack, I’m sure of it.”

“She’s right! We can’t give up!” I exclaimed in determination. “Come on you two, let’s go!”

With that, we immediately took off back at the stadium, hopefully the others found out where Applejack could possibly be. As soon as we returned back to the stadium, we saw how deserted the place, seeing nopony was hear except for our friends.

“Hey guys.” I called as me, Fluttershy, and Kodiak walked towards them as I asked “So how the search go?”

“Not good.” Kaede shook her head. “Me, Carrie, and Rainbow Dash asked some pony who was rolling a barrel away, but he said that he haven’t.”

“Me and Rarity asked a couple of ponies, zilch.” Mason shook his head, crossing his arms.

“Well those two were in a hurry, so it makes sense why they never answered.” Rarity said, feeling a bit irritated. “Honestly, those two would’ve at least gave us some respect.”

“Rarity, please calm down.” Mason said, feeling concern for her.

“Me and Jamie asked some janitors, but we got the same results as well.” Twilight sighed.

“And I asked a rodeo clown, and nothing.” Pinkie said sadly.

“I-I don’t get it…has nobody seen her?” Jamie asked.

“It’s nopony!” Rainbow corrected him. “And there has to be one!”

“Though, it is weird nopony remembers seeing her despite competing in the rodeo competition.” Mason said, rubbing his chin in thought.

“Yeah, that is really weird.” Kaede crossed her arms and agreed with me.

“M-maybe she might’ve come back home while we came here?” Jamie suggested meekly.

“Oh come on!” Rainbow complained, glaring at Jamie. “What makes you even say that?! She send us a letter right here!” 

“O-oh…r-right. Sorry about that.” Jamie apologized sadly, feeling intimidated by what she said. “I-I didn’t mean to hurt everyone’s feelings.”

“Rainbow Dash!” Twilight scolded. “Leave Jamie alone! He was trying to suggest something!”

“I was just saying.” Rainbow grumbled.

“She’s right Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy agreed, giving her a soft but stern look. “Jamie was just trying to help out. I’m sure he was just trying to cheer us all up.”

“O-oh…thank you Twilight and F-Fluttershy.” Jamie said, slumping his head down a bit.

“I just don’t get it. Where could she have gone?” Mason wondered.

“I’m really worried for her big brother.” Carrie said, feeling really worried for her. “I-I want to find Applejack, but nopony knows where she could be!“

“Excuse me, but did you say Applejack?” We turned around to encounter a dark brown pony with peach colored hair and mane wearing a cowboy hat.

“Yeah, have you seen her?” I asked with a hopeful smile.

“Sure have! I’ve seen her just the other day of the competition, and boy! Does she ever know how to ride a rodeo!” She giggled. “After the competition, I saw her go over to Dodge Junction.”

“Dodge Junction?” Kaede asked curiously.

“It’s an old western town located in the middle of the Equestrian desert.” Jamie explained. “By the way, it’s quite amazing how that name is similar to ours because we have a city called Dodge City back in our world’s country.”

“Yep!” Twilight agreed with a smile. “Dodge City is quite famous in your world’s culture for its history as a wild frontier town of the Old West, right?”

“Indeed Twilight!” Jamie agreed with a bright smile.

“Uhh…what?” Kodi asked in confusion. 

“Twilight, how did you know that?” I asked curiously.

“Me and Jamie have been exchanging different cultures for the past two months, and he sure knows a lot about his history.” Twilight explained. “Possibly even you and Mason. No offense.”

“I don’t mind.” Mason shrugged. 

“Yeah, same here.” I rubbed my head bashfully.

“Ugh! Who cares?!” Rainbow exclaimed, causing Jamie and Twilight to give her angry leers as she turned to the cowgirl pony and asked “So tell us, how do we get to Dodge Junction?”

“It’s easy really!” She smiled happily before pointing over our heads and said “It’s just pass that mountain?”

“Wait what?” Kaede asked in surprise before we turned around and jaw-dropped upon seeing that in order to get to Dodge Junction, we need to pass the big mountain. “You’re kidding, right?”

“So does anyone has any good ideas on how we get there faster or?” Kodi turned to us, wishing there was something we can do.

“It’s best if we took the train, more simple than that.” Mason suggested.

“I second that.” I agreed.

“Alright everypony! Next stop! Dodge Junction!” Twilight announced as we all rushed out of the stadium and headed straight to the train station.

“Umm…bye?” The cowgirl pony waved goodbye to us before taking her leave as well. 

You know, it’s really weird for Applejack to go over to that place up on the mountains. I mean, I’m sure she has a good explanation for all of this, right?



Later
Mason’s POV

Hmm…well this train ride has taken its longest to get us to our destination. I was meditating on the train’s seat, trying to ease my mind on the situation that lay before us. I couldn’t stop thinking about what happened to Applejack. If I what I think might be true, then this might be a problem.

“I hope this lead doesn't turn out to be a dead end. I don't wanna go home empty-hooved after promising we'd find her.” Rainbow said, looking out the window.

“I don’t know how we’ll break it to the Apple family.” Fluttershy said in concern, glancing away sadly. Ren noticed her discomfort as he put his arm around her, causing her to feel a bit better.

“I don’t know how we’ll break it to Ponyville!” Twilight added.

“I don’t know how I’ll make it to the next stop!” Pinkie exclaimed, sweating nervously.

“Pinkie Pie, do you need to go to the bathroom or something?” Kaede asked, noticing her holding her forelegs very tight.

“Y-yeah! Very badly!” Pinkie whined, causing me to groan and give her a stern glare and said “Then why haven’t you used it before we left?”

“Because I didn’t feel it yet!” This pink pony is so unbelievably wack sometimes.

“Everypony, calm down.” We all turned to Ren, who gave us a serious yet determined look on his face. “We’re gonna find AJ in no time. I mean, like I said before, we will not rest until we find her!” 

“Yeah! What he said!” Kodi barked in agreement.

“Y-yeah…alright.” Jamie nodded, clenching onto his journal real hard.

“You’re right Ren.” Fluttershy agreed. “We’re all just worried for her.”

“You’re all really put a lot of faith and care for her, don’t ya?” I asked curiously.

“Well of course! Applejack always looks out for us darling.” Rarity explained with a pleasant smile. “She always helps us in many dire situations back then, so we trust her.”

“Pretty much everypony back in Ponyville trusts her and always believes in her!” Rainbow cockily grinned before saying “Of course! I have way many fans than her!”
“Really? Just how many?” I asked in a blank look, causing her to sweat-dropped a little.

“W-well…”

“Let me guess: None?” I raised a brow, causing her to fume.

“W-whatever!” Rainbow exclaimed.

I let out a sigh before saying “Look, I’m worried about Applejack as well. We all are, but we need to calm down for a minute and just hope she’s there. I’m not saying that I don’t believe that we can’t find her, I’m believing in knowing that she’s here in Dodge Junction.”

“Right big brother!” Carrie agreed. “Surely she knows why she hasn’t come back from Ponyville! Maybe she was kidnapped or worse!”

“I sorta doubt that.” Kaede sweat-dropped a little while smirking a bit.

“Hey everypony! Look!” Twilight pointed out the window, seeing how we arrive to our destination: Dodge Junction. “This is Dodge Junction. Applejack is supposed to have come here after the rodeo ended.”

As soon as the train ceased to its stop, we came out with Pinkie rushing out and shouted “PICKLES!” before dashing off.

“A weird way of saying something like that aloud.” Kaede said aloud in surprise and feeling awkward on hearing that.

“You can say that again.” Ren nodded in agreement before turning to us with a determined look and said “Now come on everypony! Who knows where Applejack is as long as we’re-”

“I found her! I found her! I found her! I found her!” Huh? We all saw Pinkie Pie bouncing around us, excitedly.

“Wait? Already?!” Jamie gasped. “How?!”

“Follow me!” Pinkie began bouncing off, causing us to quickly run after her until we arrived aroudn the corner of a building with the pink pony pointing over to a familiar pony we were glad to finally see.

“Oh, Applejack! Thank heavens!” Rarity gasped in delight before we walked over to her. 

“Yeah! We’re so glad to see ya again!” Carrie cheered.

“We’re so glad you’re safe!” Fluttershy added.

“You had us all worried! Thank Celestia we found you!” Kodi wagged his tail happily.

“I found her, I found her, I found her, I found-Oh!” I grabbed Pinkie’s mane and looked at her with a deadpan expression before saying “We know Pinkie. Just relax.”

“…Okay!” Pinkie grinned as I gently put her down.

“So sorry for roughing you up there.” I apologized.

“That’s okay!” Pinkie assured before widening her eyes and said “Be right back!” She immediately ran past Applejack and quickly rushed to the outhouse.

“Uh, hey, everypony.” Applejack greeted us with a somewhat nervous smile. “What’s up?”

Hm? How odd…why is she acting that nervous? That expression she’s giving tells me that she’s hiding something.

“Why didn’t you come back to Ponyville?” Rainbow asked, looking at her with a serious expression.

“Yes, why are you here?” Rarity asked, pointing out the surrounding areas of the town. You know, seeing this place reminds of me of that one town we once went. I think it was Appleloosa. Yeah, that was the name. Been a while since we visited that little countryside town.

“Yeah, we made a party for you when you were gonna come back home to congratulate you on your win on the rodeo competition.” Ren stated with a soft smile while Applejack glanced away sadly upon being mentioned of that. Yep…I knew it.

“Are you okay?” Fluttershy asked.

“Do you have any snacks?” Pinkie asked, catching Jamie by surprise upon seeing her next to his left.

“Gah! W-when did you finish up on the bathroom?!” Jamie asked incredulously.

“Just now.” Pinkie answered, letting her tongue stick out a bit.

“B-but-”

“Applejack.” Jamie stopped upon seeing Carrie looking at Applejack with a worried and concern look as she asked “Are you feeling okay?”

Applejack sweated nervously before smiling nervously and replied “D-Darn tooting Carrie! Never better!” 

She gave Carrie a little noogie while she frowned upon seeing Applejack act like this. Looks like I’m not the only one who feels like something’s up with her.

“Applejack?” Carrie looked at her, feeling more concerned for her friend. Before she could talk to her more, somepony else spoke up.

“Applejack? Are these some of your Ponyville friends?” We turned around to encounter a female earth pony with a very pale yellow coat with two different shades of moderate crimson on her mane and tail while her eyes were light green. Her cutie-mark showed the marking of a cherry. Let me guess, it’s gonna be something relating to a cherry or something? She took noticed of me and the others, letting out a gasp. 

“And…are these those strange ‘hoo-man’ creatures you told me about?” She asked Applejack, who glanced away and hesitated to respond.

“We are.” Jamie answered with a meek smile. “Y-you see, we’re actually called humans, and yes ma’am, we are her friends from Ponyville.”

“And you are?” Rarity questioned with a raised brow.

“Why, I’m Cherry Jubilee.” Called it. “Boss of Cherry Hill Ranch. Hasn’t Applejack told ya? I saw her compete at the Equestria Rodeo. Never saw anypony win so many ribbons in all my life.”

“You don’t say?” I asked, glancing towards the farm pony. Well if she won the ribbons, then…of course. She didn’t win those types of ribbons at the rodeo competition.

“Cherry Jubilee?” Kaede questioned. “As in the homemade pie?”

“Why yes! It’s my favorite kind of pie! How did you know sweetie?” Cherry Jubilee asked.

“Uhh…lucky guess?” Kaede chuckled nervously, sweat-dropping.

“Aw shucks, Miss Jubilee. You don’t have to go into all that.” Applejack said, feeling a bit embarrassed about her compliments. No, it sounded like she was like begging.

“Oh, she’s so modest!” Ms. Jubilee giggled. “Anyway, I can always use a pony with quick hooves and a strong back. So, when I heard Applejack was looking for a change of scenery, I snapped her up as quick as I could and brought her to Dodge Junction.” We all looked at each other with confusion and worried, wondering about why in the world would Applejack agreed with something like this. “Well, I’ll let you catch up with your friends. See you back at the ranch.” Ms. Jubilee took her leave while we turned to Applejack, who gulped and started sweating nervously.

“Change of scenery?” Kodi asked with a raised brow. “What does that mean?”

“That’s what I’m thinking!” Rainbow exclaimed, glaring at the farm pony.

“It’s no big deal, you all.” Applejack assured, giving her a half-lidded eye expression as she started trotting away and continued “I thought cherries would be a nice change from apples, so I took the job and came here. That’s it. End of story.” 

“What?!” Jamie exclaimed, surprising us all. “That’s it?! What do you mean that’s it?! What about your family? Everypony back in Ponyville? Us?!” Jamie looked at her, feeling a bit hurt from her reason of not coming home. “Do you…not care about us?”

“Of course I do!” Applejack replied, giving him a soft grin. “It’s just that…I just…sorry! I have to go! Bye!”

With that, she immediately took off until Rainbow, Kodiak, and Ren stepped in.

“Excuse me, AJ, but we didn’t travel all over Equestria searching for you to come home without you!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“She’s right!” Ren agreed, giving the farm pony a serious look and said “Look, I don’t know what’s up, but I know that the real AJ would never give up on her friends and family.”

“Sorry, but that’s all there is to tell.” Applejack said, giving them a glare. “Thanks for checking on me, but you all can go home now. Tell my family hi, and that I’m doing a-okay.”

“But…we can’t without you.” Carrie gave her a sad look, almost at the verge of tears which nearly made me break my heart upon seeing her like this. “We came all this way for you.”

“And I appreciate that, but I really need to-”

“But AJ, we came all this way for ya!” Kodi barked. “We need you!”

“Look, I really appreciate the concern, but-”

“Enough Applejack!” I yelled, surprising her. “Stop hiding your intentions away from us! Screw your ‘change your scenery’! You’re hiding something and I want to know! We didn’t waste our time coming all this way to go on this wild goose chase!”

“Well I didn’t ask you all to come looking for me in the first place! There is nothing to tell and I am not going back to Ponyville!” Applejack exclaimed in anger, shocking us all. She took a deep breath and sighed before saying “I have to go…sorry you all.”

With that, she took her leave before looking back at us with a sad look before turning back and was gone off a distance. I darkened my face and sighed, feeling such a fool. Why did I let out that outburst? Why am I even asking that question? It’s because I care for my friends, and seeing one of them just leave like that is just…irritating.

“Mason, please calm down.” I looked over to my right to see Rarity putting her hoof over my arm with a slightly soft smile. “We understand, but all that yelling will only make it worse than it already is, darling.”

I sighed before nodding and replied “You’re right…please excuse my outburst, everyone.”

“Don’t beat yourself up, Mason.” Ren said with a smile. “We tried convincing her, but no matter what, she won’t budge.”

“Applejack doesn’t really want to work as a cherry farmer, does she?” Kodi asked in worried.

“It’s a lie! It has to be!” Carrie exclaimed.

“But…Applejack lying? That’s crazy!” Kaede shook her head, not wanting to believe in that.

“True, she’s always s-so honest.” Jamie agreed. “She works so hard everyday and helps us all in our daily lives. Well…more like you guys, but…”

“She wasn’t lying. She was keeping something to herself.” I said, confusing everypony.

“But doesn’t it technically mean she’s lying?” Rainbow raised a brow at me as I shook my head and explained “No, lying is something you’re saying falsely to someone. Keeping a little secret to herself is knowign the fact and not wanting to reveal it. She was saying anything false, she was hiding the truth.”

“Ooh, I get it!” Pinkie grinned happily, causing me to raise a brow.

“You do?”

“Nope! Not a clue.” Then why the heck did you even bother to say that you do?

“So what are we gonna do?” Fluttershy asked in worried. “I don’t want us to keep arguing with Applejack, but we have to know why she won’t come back home. We’re her friends, right? Shouldn’t we tried to understand one another.”

“You’re right Fluttershy.” Twilight nodded in agreement before smiling and said “And we’re gonna find out ourselves.

“Yeah! We gotta get her to spill the beans!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“What?!” Pinkie gasped. “She had beans! Ugh, I told her I was snacky!”

We all face-palmed/hooved ourselves at Pinkie getting that wrong.

“Pinkie Pie, it’s a metaphor.” Rarity said deadpanned.

“Ooh…okay!” I am seriously done speaking to this pink pony for the rest of the day.

“Alright, so what now? We can’t just leave Dodge Junction without Applejack.” Kaede stated.
“You’re right. We need a plan on getting closer to her.” Twilight suggested.

“Yeah, but how?” Ren wondered.

“U-umm…” We turned to Jamie, who meekly raised his hand to us before he flinched upon seeing he gotten our attention. “W-well…I got one idea, but I’m not sure you might like it.”

“Who cares?! As long as we can get closer to AJ to find out what’s up with her!” Ren exclaimed in determination.

“Same here! I ain’t going without one of my best friends as well!” Kodi agreed, sparking up a determined look as well. “She’s one of the best friends I’ve ever made and knows how to make a delicious apple pie, so I ain’t going nowhere!”

“Me too! She’s our friend and friends don’t leave each other!” Carrie agreed.
“Yeah!” Pinkie joined in.

“Well then…shall we?” I smirked, crossing my arms. “I wouldn’t mind going over a crazy plan. We pretty much go through many crazy plans.”
“Well…you’re not wrong there.” Kaede chuckled.

Whether this plan works or not, we need to keep trying and get closer to Applejack on finding out why she keeps denying telling us. Well…I know why she’s acting like this and it has to do to the rodeo competition she entered, and if I’m right…she’s feeling bad that she couldn’t win the prize money. Guess we’re gonna find out for ourselves.



Later

….Seriously? How exactly did we get roped in this? We were waiting of the Cherry Hill ranch, awaiting for our ‘boss’ to let us come in for ‘work’. Seriously, this has to be the worst plan I’ve ever been through. But then again, this is just temporary, so I won’t mind.

“Jamie…are you sure this will work?” Kaede asked, wearing an outfit that shows that she works at a factory.

“I-I’m sorry, this was the best one I could think of. I thought we could get closer to Applejack like this.” Jamie said, feeling a bit embarrassed of this. “Maybe we should just give up…”

“It’s alright Jamie, we can go through with this.” Twilight assured. “Trust me, no matter what crazy plan we go through, this is the only way to get closer to Applejack and find out what happened.”

Should I just speak up and tell them why Applejack won’t try to come back?…No, it’s more better for her to say it to them. It’s best that way.

“Exactly!” I nodded in agreement.

“Well I look okay in this outfit.” Carrie said, putting on her goggles for safety. “But…will Applejack really tell us the truth?”

“She has to Carrie!” Kaede exclaimed. “I mean, she wouldn’t keep something from us, right?”

“Yeah! She always tell us the truth on what’s wrong. I’m sure she’s just having an off-day.” Ren suggested.

“Well, there’s only one to find out. Get ready everypony.” Twilight said as we waited to be called in. Suddenly, we heard our boss yelling “Come on in, boys and girls!”

That’s our cue. We walked into the ranch, encountering Cherry Jubilee and Applejack, who was on a wheel that seemed like a guinea pig, mouse, or hamster could run in. 

“What are you all doing here?” Applejack asked in a irritated tone.

“We’re your cherry sorters.” Twilight answered.

“We thought that maybe you needed some help, that’s all.” Kodi said as we all stood in a firm line on the conveyor belt where we sort the cherries. I can already say that this would be a bad idea, but we’ll go with it. This is just to get Applejack to talk.

“I didn’t ask for your help.” Applejack said, sternly gazing at us.

“Well we thought you needed some.” Ren said. “Besides, after hearing about you wanting a change of scenery, we thought we deserved one too, and what better way than getting jobs as cherry sorters right here in Cherry Hill.”
“Now…shall we get started?” I asked, crossing my arms in a serious manner. Applejack let out a grunt and said “Fine.”

“Haha, alright…” Cherry Jubilee walked over to us and pointed to the bins in front of us. “Red cherries go in one bin…” She pointed to the bin with red cherries. “And yellow cherries go in the other.” She pointed to the other bin with yellow cherries. “Simple as cherry pie. Uh, just one teensy thing to remember…” We all waited for what she got to say as she let out a giggle and said “Have fun!”

With that, she left the ranch with us feeling blasphemy on that last part.

“Really?” I asked myself.

“Well she was having faith in us, that’s all.” Kaede assured.

“Kaede’s right. Just stay focus.” Rarity said. “Although…this outfit is quite itchy and something not in my taste.”

“Don’t worry Rarity, we’ll get out of them once we’re done here.” I whispered to her, which she nodded.

“Hey, where’s Kodiak and Rosy?” Carrie asked curiously, noticing that he wasn’t here.

“Since Kodi and Rosy are animals, they couldn’t be able to get the job.” Ren answered. “So Miss Jubilee offered to let them stay in her home till we finished our works.” 

“I hope he’s okay.” Fluttershy said, feeling concern for him. “You two rarely get separated from each other.”

“I know.” Ren nodded. I bet he’s sulking that he can’t be here with us. I’m not mocking him, just wondering.



Meanwhile

“Here ya go little fellas! Two delicious cherry pie for ya!” Miss Jubilee put down a slice of cherry pie down in front of Kodiak, who wagged his tail happily about getting the chance on eating it.

“Yeah! Thanks!” Kodi barked before taking a bite of it, getting some cherries on his muzzle. “Best day ever…”

“Meow…” Rosy purred, enjoying eating this pie.



Later

“So what are you five doing here?” Applejack questioned, forming an angry expression towards us.

“Well uh, you made working on a cherry orchard sound…so delightful.” Rarity chuckled nervously.

“Uh-huh.” Applejack nodded, not fully believing in our story before saying “Well just remember: No talking about Ponyville.”

“Fine! Why don’t you quit talking and get walking?” Rainbow demanded.

“She’s right, will you please start walking so we can get to work?” I asked, already wanting to get this stupid job already done. This is not suitable for someone of my skills to work for.

“I couldn’t agree more.” Applejack huffed before she began walking on the giant wheel she was in, moving the conveyor belt and its cherries.

“Whoa, that’s amazing.” Carrie said in awe.

“Astounding. The wheel uses as a source of energy to move the conveyor belt judging how fast you go. It’s quite amazing.” Jamie said as we began to do our work by sorting out each cherry. 

“Really? Do they do this on your world?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Not that I know of, but I heard rumors that they do something like this.” Jamie replied.

“Psst!” Rainbow whispered to them, causing them to stop their conversation and turned to the rainbow Pegasus. She raised her head and looked towards Applejack, who remained silent while she walked. Then, she darted her eyes towards Twilight and Jamie and cocked her head to the right. Jamie and Twilight nodded lightly before the latter smiled slyly.

“So…AJ, how was Canterlot?” Twilight asked, causing Applejack to widened her eyes and glare angrily at Twilight, who smiled sheepishly and clarified “Not talking about Ponyville, talking about Canterlot, totally different town.”

Applejack huffed before turning her head away and responded “Canterlot was fine.”

That attitude shows that everything wasn’t fine to me.

“Was the rodeo fun?” Jamie asked.

“Yes.”

“Did you meet some nice ponies there?” Kaede spoke up, also getting into the conversation as well as she, Twilight, and Jamie walked over to Applejack’s wheel. It’s a good thing that we still have enough people to keep the cherries in line.

“Some.”

“Really?” Rainbow Dash flew over to her, removing from her work past as well. “Did you see Wild Bull Hickok? What about Calamity Mane?”

And who in the world came up with this stage names? I hear better stage names back at home than here.

“Yes, I saw them both.” Applejack answered. Rainbow Dash nodded excitedly at Applejack, who only returned an even more annoyed expression. Rainbow Dash noticed this as she crossed her forelegs, returning an upset look.

“Umm…excuse me?” Fluttershy called as more cherries were coming our way. Huh? There weren’t this fast before. Unless…of course, the wheel! Applejack is starting to pick up the pace the more we keep talking to her about the rodeo competition. This could turn out bad.

“And how did you meet Miss Jubilee?” Rarity asked, also walking out on us, leaving me, Ren, Pinkie Pie, Carrie, and Fluttershy alone on this.

“Um, well, Miss Jubilee had a cherry stand at the rodeo. Real good treats.” Applejack started to pick up more pace on the wheel, showing off how upset and irritated she was becoming. “Cherry winks, cherry cheesecake, cherry tarts. We struck up a conversation being orchard folk and all.”

“Boy, that’s a lot of cherry-like desserts.” Ren commented with a nervous smile as we started to get a bit carried off on sorting out these cherries. Man, this isn’t good.

“So you told her about Sweet Apple Acres?” Twilight inquired.

“Yes.” Applejack answered.

“Did you tell her why you weren’t going back?” Kaede questioned in concern while bringing up a hopeful smile. However, Applejack gave her a furious look and replied “No, cause it was none of her business!”

She soon started going faster, causing the conveyor belt to go too fast.

“Ooh…can you please slow down?” Fluttershy begged.

“Yeah! We’re not good at this speed!” Ren exclaimed.

“Is it because I made it rain on you that one time?” Rainbow questioned.

“No!” Applejack yelled.

“Help!” Fluttershy begged.

“Is it because you were insulted when I gave you that book on organized orchards the other day?” Jamie asked with a worried look.

“NO!” Applejack exclaimed angrily.

Soon, the gears soon started to malfunctioned, causing me to grab Carrie and move her away from the conveyor belt as it was about to explode.

“S-Stop this Applejack!” I yelled, glaring at her. “You need to stop this right now and just admit what happened to them! If not, then I’ll-”

Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to finished as the machine immediately explode, everything in the room was covered in a cherry mess while we were covered in it as well.

“Never mind…” I sighed with a deadpan look.

“Applejack…can you tell us?” Ren asked in worried. “We’ll understand.”

“No I won’t! I’m not telling you why!” Applejack screeched before running off, causing us all to sigh. So much for that offer.



Later

After Cherry Jubilee discovered the mess, we volunteered on cleaning up our act. Literally. We all had to clean up every single cherry mush off the ground. Ugh, I knew this was a bad idea. All because they kept bugging her.

“Whoa, what happened here?” We turned to see Kodiak entered the barn, having some cherry stain on his muzzle while stomach almost looked like he had too much to eat. Like seriously, how much did this canine eat? “It looks like an explosion happened here.”

“Something like that, Kodi.” Ren rubbed his cheek in embarrassment. 

“Yeah, we sorta got…Applejack’d.” Kaede added.

“Oh, it didn’t go well , did it?” Kodi asked, his ears lowering down in depression.

“Yeah…” They both sighed.

“It’s no use…she won’t tell us.” Jamie sighed. 

“She has to. I mean, we are her friends, right?” Carrie wondered, putting her hand on her chest. “Doesn’t she care for us?”

“She does.” Ren said with a soft smile. “I just…don’t know why.”

“It’s the competition.” I answered firmly, gaining everyone’s attention. “I think it has something to do after the rodeo competition.”

“Really? What makes you say that?” Rarity asked in confusion.

“I think I know…” I said with a serious expression. “We need to talk to her.”

“But how? She won’t listen to reason with us.” Jamie said sadly. “Maybe we should just go…she doesn’t want us. And if someone says that, we should respect their privacy.”

“But we can’t!” Ren exclaimed, surprising Jamie. “Friends never leave each other Jamie! Friends stick with each other to the end! And that’s why we’re going to do!”

“R-right…sorry.” Jamie apologized.

“Don’t feel bad Jamie, Ren was just stating why we should never leave Applejack’s side.” Fluttershy assured.

“Yeah…sorry for yelling at ya.” Ren apologized.

“I-It’s okay…It was my fault for suggesting that.” Jamie stated.

“Well everypony, we seem to be striking out.” Twilight said, still cleaning some mess with a mop.

“Seems that way.” I shrugged. 

“But why won’t she tell us?” Kodiak asked curiously.

“That’s cause we’re playing too nice.” Rainbow said seriously. Really? Define nice because it looks to me you all were bugging her with too many questions.

“Yes. desperate times do call for desperate measures.” Rarity nodded in agreement.

“Umm…mind telling some of us what are you talking about?” I asked.

“Let’s just say…it’s time to call in the big guns.” Rainbow and the others looked straight at me, causing me to raise a brow until I looked behind and saw Pinkie licking some of the cherry mush on the ground.

She soon noticed us looking at her, causing her to beam in happiness and asked “What?”

“So wait…you want to use Pinkie Pie?” I asked incredulously.

“Well I’m sure she’ll convince Applejack, right?” Ren shrugged with a sheepish smile.

“Of course she can!” Rainbow winked. “Now then-”

“It’s best if I go.” Everyone looked at me in surprise, shocked to hear that as I continued “We’re only gonna keep annoying her till we get her to the breaking point to tell us what’s going on. It’s best if you let someone responsible to let me do it for me.

“A-are you sure?” Kaede asked.

“I’m sure Kaede. Just sit tight and it’ll be quick.” I began leaving the place and went to go look for Applejack, hopefully to get her to talk.

“Big brother!” Carrie called, running to me as she shyly said “I-I want to come too! I-I want to find out why Applejack won’t come.”

“Carrie…” I muttered in surprise before forming a soft grin. “Alright fine, there’s no convincing you. You’re the most stubborn sister I’ve ever got.”

“Says you Mason.” Ren chuckled with a smirk.

“He does have a valid point, darling.” Rarity agreed, giving me a smirk as well. I rolled my eyes at them and muttered “Of course you two brought that up…”

“Good luck you two.” Twilight said. “We’re counting on you.”

“Ooh! And while you at it, ask Applejack if she prefers the name a ‘Cherrychanga’ or a ‘Chimicherry’?” We all looked at Pinkie with weird and deadpanned looks, which she noticed. “What? You guys never heard that before?”

“No, not at all.” Jamie replied with a deadpanned look.

“Well it’s mashed-up cherries wrapped around in a tortilla that’s deep fried. Cherrychanga. Great name, huh?” Pinkie explained before continuing “Oh, but maybe I should call it a chimmicherry.”

And this is my cue to take my leave, bye. I grabbed Carrie’s hand as we both took our leave, not wanting to get involve with her stupidity as I just wanted to talk to Applejack and not want Pinkie babbling about some cherrychanga or what not. It’s quite distracting and no offense to her, pointless. I mean, I don’t think any of us would eat something like that. 

“Chimicherry…Cherrychanga…it’s quite catchy.” Carrie giggled, causing me to roll my eyes in annoyance. Soon, we heard a loud THUMP as we turned to our left, seeing Applejack kicking a cherry tree, making some cherries fall down in a bucket.

“Applejack.” I called, gaining her attention as she gave me and Carrie an annoyed look and asked “What now?”

“We just came by to help you out.” I said, giving her a serious expression.

“Well…fine.” Applejack huffed before asking “You both promise not to ask me any questions?”

“Yeah! We promise Applejack!” Carrie nodded.

“Indeed…” I agreed before crossing my arms and gave her a stern gaze and said 

“Because we don’t have to ask you to know why.”

“Huh?” Applejack asked in surprise.

“What are you talking about big brother?” Carrie asked in confusion.

“I was thinking about for a long while when you send us that letter back at Ponyville, and I realized why. It’s because you couldn’t tell us that you didn’t win the prize money nor those blue ribbons at the rodeo competition, did ya?” I narrowed my eyes at her, causing her to sweat nervously.

“T-that’s just crazy! You don’t know that!” Applejack yelled.

“Then why didn’t you come home then? I highly doubt that you would abandoned your own family!” I yelled with an angry look.

“Yeah! Apple Bloom, Granny Smith, Big Mac, and everypony back home are worried for you!” Carrie added with a sad look. “Please…tell us.”

“B-b-but…!”

“Applejack…stop hiding your feelings from us.” I said, softening my expression. “We’re your friends, so we’ll understand.”

Applejack looked at us for a moment before sighing sadly and said “Alright…it’s true. I…didn’t win the blue ribbons.”

“You really didn’t?” Carrie asked in surprised.

“I only won the green, red, and other types of ribbons, but not any blue ribbon nor the prize money!” Applejack exclaimed.

“I…see.” I crossed my arms with a sorta depressed look. Now I understand her issue. It’s because everypony looked up to her so much that she has a difficult time to tell them that she failed to win that prize money to help rebuild the mayor’s office. I…feel terrible for her. She’s afraid of failure…it’s that feeling I get when I feel like I let someone down.

“How am I gonna tell the folks back home about this? They’ll be disappointed in me…” Applejack wondered, looking away in depression. Carrie soon came over, giving her a hug that caught her by surprise as she said “I’m not disappointed Applejack. I don’t care if ya didn’t win. We just want you back, that’s all.”

“R-really?” Applejack asked in surprise.

“Yes, we all care for you. We all were scared and surprised when we received your letter.” I explained. “Please, Ren and the others will understand if you tell us.”

“….Alright.” Applejack sighed. “I-I’ll try tomorrow at breakfast. Just promise me that you won’t tell them before I do.”

“I promise.” I assured.

“Yeah! It’s a Pinkie promise!” Carrie added with a bright smile. Me and Applejack let out chuckles before doing the ‘Pinkie Promise’ on her’s.

“Cross my eyes, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” Me and Applejack said in unison as we done the pinkie promise together.

“Don’t worry. I promise I will tell the whole truth to them at breakfast.” Applejack softly smiled. “Now then, can you both please excuse me for a second? I have one last job to do, if ya will.”

“We don’t mind.” I smiled.

“Yeah! See ya AJ!” Carrie waved goodbye to her. “And we promise not to tell anypony our little secret!”

“Heh heh…I know you won’t.” I heard Applejack muttered in a worried tone. I just hope that she doesn’t try anything stupid that could be lead to a disaster or something too dangerous.



Later

Soon, the sun began descending down with the moon slowly rising up. Ms. Jubilee was quite kind to let us sleep in the guest rooms, which was quite nice of her to allow us to do. Soon after, the others were curious to know how the talk went with Applejack. However, I told them that Applejack will promise to tell us in the morning, and she pinkie promise.

“Wow, just like that.” Ren said in surprise.

“That seems almost too easy, right?” Jamie questioned. “W-well I mean…she just gave herself up that easily, right?”

“True, but hey, at least we finally get to hear what Applejack got to say.” Kodi said, relieved to have Applejack finally talk to us what’s bugging her.

“Yeah, I was almost worried for a second there.” Kaede agreed as she held her stuffed kitty cat in her arms.

“Same here. So glad Applejack is willing to us to tell us.” Twilight sighed in relief.

“I just hope she won’t deny anything from us.” Fluttershy said, glancing down sadly. “She looked really upset when we kept asking so many questions.”

“True, but Applejack would never lie or keep something from us.” Rarity waved it off. “She’s our friend, and friends listened what others say and understand each other.”

“Yeah! No way she would leave us like that!” Ren agreed with a smile. 

“Yeah! She even pinkie promised!” Pinkie nodded in agreement with a bright smile.

“Okay but…what if she breaks that pinkie promise?” I asked curiously as she still remained in her bright smile before she patted me on the head and said “Oh silly Masey! Nopony ever breaks a pinkie promise!”

“Okay?” She seems really confident about that. I mean, Applejack wouldn’t break something like that right? Oh well, only one way to find out when we go to bed.

Rarity soon let out a yawn and said “All this talking has let me all tuckered out. It’s best if we gotten our beauty sleep, everypony.”

“Y-yeah…it is getting late.” Jamie nodded.

“Alright, goodnight everypony.” Ren let out a yawn as we slept on our soft beds, and began to drifting to sleep. Applejack…please don’t try anything stupid that you’ll regret.



Meanwhile

Applejack was seen in her room, sleeping in her own room. Soon, she began showing signs of fear while shifting nervously around her bed before immediately letting out a gasp and wiped a sweat away.

“O-oh…it was just a nightmare…nothing more…” Applejack muttered, rubbing her aching head.

“Is it now my dear Applejack?” Applejack widened her eyes upon hearing that dark voice before turning around to see a figure walking out the brink of darkness, crossing his arms as his left eye shined darkly.

“W-who are you?” Applejack asked in fear.

“I am sorry, but I am afraid I cannot reveal my identity. Although…I am disappointed in you.” The figure chuckled.

“W-what are you talking about?”

“You call yourself the bearer of the Element of Honesty and yet you cannot reveal your feelings to them. How pathetic.” Applejack felt angry at the figure messing around with her as she exclaimed “H-hey! You butt out of that!…Wait, how did you know that I was the bearer of the Element of Honesty?”

The figure let out a dark chuckle as his expression darkened, his red eye shining brightly as he replied “I know everything about you and your friends. Even your human companions. Besides, can you really be sure that they can handle the truth? They’ll just laugh at you.”

“N-now you stop that! I trust them and-” Applejack was cut-off as the figure grabbed her by the mane and glared at her angrily as he shouted “Really?! After you conceal the truth from them that you think that they’ll accept you?! You call yourself the bearer of the Element of Honesty and yet you had to hide those stupid feelings away?! Hmph, it just shows how your disappointing. Why would it chose you if you never always gonna tell the truth.”

Applejack’s expression went pale, taking everything was he said before he tossed her back on the bed.

“Now that’s over…I should take my leave. If I were you, I would leave too and never see your so-called ‘friends’ ever again.” The figure stated before disappearing through the darkness. Applejack remained silent before silently crying with a guilty look on her face.



The Next Day

“I’m glad we’re finally gonna get some answers from Applejack.”

“Y-yeah, I’m just as relieved as you, Twilight.” Jamie smiled towards the purple unicorn. Well you two need to calm down if ya want us to wait for Applejack to tell us when we’re eating breakfast.

“Yeah, maybe.” Rainbow agreed, feeling a bit unsure about this.

“Don’t worry, Rainbow!” Pinkie assured, bouncing merrily with a cheery smile. “She’s gotta fess up after making a Pinkie promise.”

“Well let’s go wake her up and eat some breakfast. I’m starving.” Kodi said, rubbing his stomach.

“Didn’t you like eat like how many cherry pies yesterday?” Kaede asked incredulous.

“Kodi would eat anything Kay. Trust me, I know this for a fact.” Ren rolled his eyes with a smirk.

“Alright, alright, everypony. Let’s calm down and meet up with her.” I said, finally arriving to her room door. I knocked on her door, only to find out slowly opening by itself. “What?” Okay, that’s weird.

“Good morning, Applejack!” Pinkie greeted, peeking out of the door. “You ready for br-” She paused upon seeing no one was in the room.

“S-she’s gone?!” Kaede exclaimed in shock.

“Meow?!” Rosy gasped.

“A-Applejack…?” Carrie became shocked and heartbroken that she just…took off. No…Applejack…how could you?

“AH!” Pinkie jaw-dropped upon finding out Applejack literally just…left us. I-I don’t understand, she promised us. Why? She wouldn’t lie to us! Just what’s going on? Is the pain in her heart really that wounded for her to speak out the truth? 

“Uhh…Pinkie Pie?” Kodi called, causing me to turn to her and widened my eyes upon seeing her face slowly turning red and somehow, steam coming out of her ears.

“NOPONY BREAKS A PINKIE PROMISE!”

She immediately dashes off, leaving us all speechless and bewildered on what just occurred.

“…I’m starting to see why nopony would break a pinkie promise.” Ren muttered.

“…Let’s just follow her and make sure she won’t do anything too drastic.” I suggested.
“Couldn’t agree more, big brother.” Carrie agreed with widened eyes, still shocked by Pinkie breaking out of character. I’ve never seen her act that angry before since she was always energetic and annoying with her jokes, but always knew how to cheer us up. Seeing her like this was quite…bewildering. Let’s just go and find out where she went.

We soon immediately ran out of Ms. Jubilee’s ranch home as we rushed into town, catching up with Pinkie Pie as she held a serious and angry look on her face. We soon noticed our little farm pony friend awaiting on the train station, feeling impatient for the train to arrive.

“Applejack!” Pinkie yelled, gaining her attention as she returned the deadly and ferocious expression as she yelled “YOU PINKIE PROMISED CARRIE! HOW DARE YOU BREAK A PINKIE PROMISE TO A LITTLE GIRL?!”

Applejack widened her eyes and yelped in surprise before running away from us, making us run faster. Well I was more athletic than them, so I was going more faster than usual.

“Applejack! Come back here!” Ren yelled as we saw her jump into a carriage that was being pulled by four stallions as she told them “Giddy up fellas! I gotta get the heck out of Dodge!”

She grabbed the rope that was tied to the carriage and whipped them, causing them to run.

“Wait, they seriously have those carriages here?!” Jamie exclaimed in shock.

“This is no time to write your stuff in that journal Jamie!” Pinkie yelled, catching me off-guard a bit to see how serious she was taking this. “We have to stop Applejack!”

“Well we’re not gonna make it!” Kaede yelled.

“Oh yes we are!” Twilight said in full confidence before pointing over to a nearby wagon. “Look girls!”

“Oh! That’s very convenient!” Carrie commented.

“Quick! Let’s go!” Rainbow yelled before she and Fluttershy wrapped themselves in the chains as we immediately got on and allowed them to carry us to chase after them.

“Are you sure you can handle this Flutters?” Ren asked in concern.

“I-I’ll try at least!” Fluttershy responded as we began catching up to her.

“Follow that stagecoach!” Pinkie yelled as we kept our gazes towards the runaway carriage. We passed right through several surprised and startled ponies until we began catching up to her. “Oh, we have you now!”

“Don’t worry! I got this!” Ren grabbed his Hacking Gun and set the dial before aiming for the carriage. “Break!”

Before he could shoot, the cart immediately stopped and caused it to go adrift, causing some of us to fall out of it. 

“What the heck was that about?!” Kaede exclaimed, landing on her back.

“Ugh…” Ren was on the ground, apparently landing on his stomach with a dizzy look on his eyes. “I missed…”

“I am so sorry Ren! There was a rabbit on the road and I had to stop!” Fluttershy flew towards him in a rush and looked over to see if he had any injuries on him. She sighed in relief before looking over to see a dark gray bunny sniffing at him curiously before hopping away.

“Well…I can’t blame ya if that poor bunny was hurt.” Carrie said in worried, who was lucky on still being in the cart.

“Yeah, good call but next time, please give us a heads up.” I said, getting up from the floor before we got back up to the carriage. 

“Y-yeah…don’t worry Flutters, I’m a-okay.” Ren winked, causing her to sigh in relief before noticing Rainbow Dash narrowing her eyes at her before rolling them, causing her to frown before she took off, catching Fluttershy by surprise when she began without her. I grabbed Ren’s hand and pulled him into the cart before we took off as we began our run-and-chase scene.

“You alright?” Kodi asked in worried.

“I told ya Kodi, I’m a-okay.” Ren assured before wincing in pain when he touched his right arm. “Ahh man…”

“Your arm…it’s bruised.” I pointed out, which surprised the others. 

“I told ya guys that I’m fine.” Ren winced again. “Never mind…”

I looked over his arm and saw that it wasn’t that bad, but it needed its rest. “Your arm doesn’t looked like it’s that bad, but you’re gonna need it to rest.”

“But how am I gonna fire my Hacking Gun?” Ren asked in worried until Kaede grabbed it, much to our surprise.

“Don’t worry, I’ll try to aim for it.” Kaede said with a confident look.

“A-Are you sure about that?” Jamie asked in concern.

“Yeah! I once learned how good I was by practicing some bowing arrows, so I can use this fine.”

“You know…how to shoot an arrow?” Jamie blinked in surprise as the rest of us answered “It’s a long story.”

“Hey guys! I seen her up ahead!” Rainbow shouted, seeing the run away carriage in front of us.

“She’s not getting away this time!” Twilight assured. We soon started getting closer before we managed to get next to them as our cart slammed against hers, catching her by surprise.

“Whoa! What the hay?!” Applejack turned around and became shocked to see us here.

“Pull over!” Rainbow demanded.

“We don’t have to do this you know!” Ren added before we slammed into her cart again, catching her carriage off balance. 

“Whoa!” Applejack exclaimed, getting hit again before glaring at us. “Cut that out! Whoa!”

“Applejack! Please stop this!” Carrie begged. Applejack looked at her eyes, feeling a bit scared before turning to the coach ponies and said “I’ll pay you double to outrun them.”

“What?!” Jamie exclaimed. “You can’t do that!” 

“W-we’ll pay you triple to slow down!” Twilight offered, much to the coachponies joy as they smirked at each other before began doing what they asked. Okay, I just feel like these guys are only interested in the money than any of this conversation.

“I’ll pay you quadruple to leave them in the dust!” Applejack offered, managing to get to obliged to that offer as they literally left us in the dust. We all coughed from the dirt before feeling irritated that she would do something like that.

“That was rude!” Rarity commented.

“Tell me about it.” I scoffed.

“Come on!” Pinkie demanded. “Get them! GET THEM!”

“Whoa! I never seen Pinkie Pie act like this before!” Kaede exclaimed in surprise.

“R-remind me to never make her mad, p-please?” Jamie pleaded, hiding behind Twilight in fear.

“Yeah. Just what happened to her?” Kodi asked in surprise.

“It’s because Applejack broke my pinkie promise.” Carrie said sadly. I ruffled her hair a bit, causing her to smile softly as I said “Don’t worry Carrie, we’ll get her to stop and tell us what happened.”

“Totally!” Ren agreed, accidentally raising his right arm, causing him to wince in pain. “Oww…”

“Come on! Pick up the pace, Fluttershy!” Rainbow yelled, which Fluttershy nodded before they started increasing their speed. We soon began catching up to the carriage again, which Applejack noticed as she began increasing the coachponies’ speed.

“Hyah! Come on, you all! Go, go!” Applejack shouted. However, we managed to catch up as we looked at Applejack while I shouted “Applejack! Stop this right now!”
“I won’t!”

“I thought we agreed that you will tell everypony the truth at breakfast?” 

“W-well…” Applejack hesitated as I raised both my brows, seeing fear in her eyes. She’s afraid…not annoyed, but afraid. But she wasn’t like this before, so what’s up with her now?

“That’s enough!” We immediately turned to see Pinkie Pie hopping over to the other side of the cart, glaring angrily at Pinkie Pie while we all gaped upon seeing her doing that.

“Whoa…” Kodi muttered.

“Meow…” Rosy nodded in agreement.

“Dang, who knew Pinkie Pie would do something that daring.” Ren commented before realizing something about that. “Actually, she always does anything daring like Rainbow Dash.”

“Applejack! You broke your pinkie promise to Carrie! Apologize to her!” Pinkie exclaimed, narrowing her eyes at her.

“P-Pinkie Pie! It’s okay!” Carrie assured, but the two ponies ignored her as Applejack retorted “Pinkie, I did not break her promise!”

“What?”

“If Mason and Carrie told ya about yesterday’s conversation, I told them that I would tell you all everything at breakfast. But I didn’t come to breakfast. I couldn’t come to that breakfast, not if it meant telling you all what happened.”

“That’s…actually pretty much make sense.” Jamie said, causing us to give him deadpanned looks. “W-what? I’m just saying!”

“W-well…I…I…” Pinkie stuttered, unable to retort something back at her.

“I’m sorry Pinkie, but I can’t tell you all the truth! I just can’t!” We all looked at each other, seeing how afraid Applejack was. She was really honest on telling us this morning, but now…she’s acting weird. 

“Well I heard a ‘sorry’ in there, so that’ll have to do for now.” Pinkie said, turning away from Applejack as she continued “I’ll get a real apology later. Rarity, catch me.”
Wait what? Pinkie instantly jumped backwards, expecting Rarity to catch her.

“What? Pinkie-AHHH!” Rarity screamed as Pinkie was about to crash into her until I caught her by the mane. “Oh…” Rarity let out a sigh of relief upon seeing me catch Pinkie and prevented her from getting hurt. “Thank you Mason darling.”

“Anytime milady.” I bowed before settling Pinkie down. Rarity blushed at that compliment, feeling embarrassed by what I said.

“Oh my. T-thank you for such high praise, M-Mason.” Rarity smiled.

“No time for mushy stuff Rarity! We got a carriage to catch!” Rainbow yelled, causing her to pout while I shrugged. Though, she’s right. We gotta focus on the task. 

“Hang on! I think I got it!” Kaede said, raising the Hacking Gun at the carriage. “If I can just aim right…”

She closed her left eye and instantly aimed at the carriage holder as she yelled “Take that!”

As she pressed the button, a yellow electric beam aimed at the coachponies, causing them to freeze and be paralyzed. We all stopped and sweat-dropped upon seeing that.

“Uhh…oops.” Kaede chuckled nervously.

“You accidentally set it on Paralyze, Kay.” Ren said before noticing Applejack getting out of the carriage and zooming off. “Look out! She’s getting away!”

“Oh no she won’t!” Kodi yelled before jumping out of the catch and running up to catch up to Applejack. He managed to bite on her tail, causing her to halt and dropped her bag.

“N-no! Let go of me Kodiak!” Applejack begged.

“The jig is up Applejack!” Rainbow exclaimed as we all got off the carriage and confronted her. 

“Applejack…please relax and tell us the truth.” I begged. “Please…at least for Carrie.”
Applejack looked over at Carrie, seeing the sad look on my little sister.

“Please Applejack…don’t run away anymore.” Carrie pleaded, which made Applejack show a guilty look on her face.

“Alright fine…you all want to know the truth?” She pointed over to her saddlebag as Jamie walked over and picked it up, opening the bag and showing us what was inside. It was a bunch of ribbons that she must’ve won back at the rodeo competition. “So now you know…”

“Know what?” Jamie questioned. “You have a g-good collection of ribbons you won from the rodeo, right?”

“Jamie’s right, I don’t see what’s wrong with that.” Twilight agreed with a smile.

“Don’t you get it?!” Applejack asked irritably as Kodi let go of her tail as she walked over and grabbed a medal with a red strap. “There’s every color of ribbon down there. Every color…but…blue.” She dropped it on the ground and started letting out tears. “I came in fourth, third, even second, but I didn’t win one first prize, and I certainly didn’t wan any prize money.”

“But the telegram said you were gonna send money.” Kaede stated.

“That’s why I came here. I wanted to earn some money. After that big old send off Ponyville gave me, I just didn’t have the nerve to come back empty-hooved.” Applejack explained, wiping away her tears. “I couldn’t come home a failure…”

“I see now…” I muttered, darkening my face a bit before forming a small smile. “Applejack, you can’t let that weight get the better of you.”

“Huh?” Applejack looked at me with confusion as I continued “I know what it feels like weighing down with failure if you messed something up, but you aren’t a failure. I understand that the town put too much faith in ya, but that’s because they believe in you.”

“Yeah! Big brother’s right!” Carrie agreed before adding “You’re the most amazing pony and the best friend we ever had!”

“And we’re your friends. We’ll totally understand your issues.” Ren added with a grin. “I mean, just because you didn’t win, doesn’t mean you can’t go back home without the money. I’m sure we can think of ways on how to fix the mayor’s rooftop without it. We just want you to come back home.”
“Yeah, we miss you.” Kodi whimpered.

“And we’re your friends!” Rainbow added, patting Applejack on the back. “We don’t care if you came in fiftieth place! You’re still number one in our books!”

Applejack looked at us in shock before asking “So…you’re not upset, or disappointed…?”

“Of course not. We’re just glad we finally got you to understand, that’s all.” Kaede stated with a sweet smile.

“But…if you don’t come back, we’ll never be able to fix the hole in our hearts.” Fluttershy said, putting her hoof over her chest. Applejack felt heart-warmed by that as she came over and hugged us, forming into a group hug.

“Thanks ya all. Oh and Mason, Carrie…” Applejack turned to me and my sister as she apologized “Sorry for everything. For running off like a coward.”

“It’s okay Applejack! We’re glad to finally got you to calm down.” Carrie chuckled with a smile.

“My sis’s right. I understand why you would be afraid of telling us the truth.” I nodded with a soft grin. “I mean, I saw some signs of fear when you kept refusing to stop. It was…sorta unlike you, you know.”

“Yeah…all because of what he said that it might’ve end my friendship with you all.” Huh? Wait what? He?

“He? Who are you talking about?” Ren asked in confusion.

“…Well, there was somepony in my room last night. I didn’t know who he was or what he was, but he told me about telling you guys might’ve broken off our friendship. I started to grew fearful, and it made me feel scared of losing you guys forever. He even suggested that I never show my face to you all ever again by grabbing my mane and telling me that up close to his face.” We all looked at each other in shock, learning about this. Someone broke into her room last night and gave her some incentive to leave? 

“That’s so…cruel!” Kaede said, shocked to hear this. “Why would someone do something like that to you?”

“Yeah! Did you get that guy’s name or something?” Rainbow questioned, feeling upset someone would attack her.

“No…but…he knew what Element of I was.” Applejack answered, looking at us with a serious and scared expression. “He knew who I was, all of us, even Ren, Mason, Jamie, Carrie, and Kaede.”

“What? Even us?” Ren asked in surprise.

“Well it makes sense since we are now famous in this world.” I pointed out. “But still…this lone figure, whatever happened to him?”
“H-he…disappeared through the known darkness.” Applejack replied.

“Into the darkness? Like literally?” Jamie questioned, which she nodded. “N-no way, can a pony even do that?”

“Well of course, but to disappear like that…that’s has to be like high level dark magic wizard to do that.” Twilight explained.

“Yeah but…when I first looked at him…” Applejack turned to me and the others non-ponies creatures as she stated “This figure was human-like…”

“Huh? Seriously?!” Kaede gaped.

“So wait, is he another human?” Kodi asked in shock.

“That’s really weird. I’m not sure if he’s even human at all!” Ren exclaimed. “I-I mean, you did say that he disappeared through the darkness, right? I’ve seen tons of villains pull that off, but not outta real life.”

“Well either way, I know what I saw.” Applejack shivered as Fluttershy and Twilight came over and patted her on the back, cheering her up. “Sorry for making ya all worried like that.”

“It’s okay AJ, we’re pretty much used by this stuff by now.” Ren smiled. 

“He’s right.” Fluttershy agreed. 

“Of course! Now what we doing here? Let’s go home.” Rainbow exclaimed, eager to go back home.

“Indeed but…” Rarity looked behind us, causing us to turn around as we saw the coachponies knocked out, probably from the ‘Paralyze’ effects. “What about them?”

“W-well…we can leave them, right?” Jamie asked.

“Guess we’re gonna have to carry them back.” Ren shrugged.

“Good point.” Twilight nodded. “Come on everypony, let’s get to it.”

Some of the girls sighed while some of us went on to go and help out those coachponies. Still though, I can’t wrap my head on everything Applejack told us. There was a figure in a room who made Applejack run away from us like that, and he looked like a human? This doesn’t make any sense at all…if he was another human, wouldn’t another pod in the ship have appeared?



Later

We all were soon riding on the train back home as our adventures in Dodge Junction had finally come to an end. Now it’s time to go back to Ponyville and enjoy some rest.

“Oh yeah…” I glanced over to see Kaede returning the Hacking Gun back to Ren, whose arm was starting to completely heal itself. “Here, I think this belongs to you Ren.”

“Oh thanks Kay.” Ren thanked. “You really have a good aim for stuff like that, huh?”

“Yeah, except that I was trying to destroy the carriage holder instead of electrocuting them.” Kaede sweat-dropped with a nervous grin before Ren shook his head with a smile on his face as he said “Well even so, you’re good. It’s like you knew how to shoot in the first place.”

“Yeah, it was like I was sowing stuff and concentrating on getting the thread into the sowing needle, you know?” Kaede chuckled.

“Well either way, thanks.” Ren smiled.

“Yeah! You’re a real pal, Kay!” Kodi barked happily, causing her to blush a bit with a smile.

“Thanks you two.” Kaede chuckled. “But you know, sometimes I really wished I have my own weapon.”

“Well…why not we search one next time? Surely it has to be something like shooting, right?” Ren suggested.

“Yeah…maybe so.” Kaede agreed. “Alright, next time it is.”

I couldn’t help but smile at those two, seeing them get along like that until I noticed at the corner at my eye that Jamie was glancing at them in a sad state before sighing. Hmm…he must have something in his mind. Is he feeling lonely or something?

“Hey Applejack…” Twilight called, turning to her friend as she asked “You wanna send a letter to the princess to tell her what you learned today?”

“Sure do Twilight.” Applejack grinned.

“Excellent, Jamie?” Twilight called, but he gave out no response. “Jamie!”

“H-huh?!” Jamie soon finally gotten his attention as he flinched and looked at Twilight with a surprised look. “O-oh! Sorry Twilight! Y-yeah, I’ll get right on it.”

“Thanks Jamie.” Twilight smiled as Jamie took out his notebook and began writing down what Applejack was describing about what she learned so far.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

It’s a tad easier to be proud when you come in first than it is when you finish further back. But there’s no reason to hide when you don’t do as well as you hoped. You can’t run away from your problems. Better to run to your friends and family.“ 

“That’s pretty insightful of you, Applejack.” I said as I held my meditating position on the seat. “I’m glad you had learned your lesson.”

“Thanks Mason.” Applejack chuckled.

“Oh yeah…” Ren took out something from his backpack that he happened to bring along, as he took it out, revealing to be a portrait of Applejack riding a bull.

“W-what? Ren…did you make this for me?” Applejack asked in surprise.

“Well yeah. This was a gift I happened to make for you when you were gonna come home from the rodeo until…well you know.” Ren smirked.

“Yeah…I know.” Applejack received the portrait before forming a grin. “Thanks Ren.”

“Anytime AJ!” Ren chuckled.

“You know, you’re getting good in this painter job, Ren.” Carrie pointed out, causing him to rub his head bashfully as he replied “Well yeah. I do a lot of fanart when I some free time or when I’m bored.”

“I didn’t know you do fanart, Ren.” Kaede said in surprised.

“Yeah…how else did I learn how to sketch, draw, paint, and such?” Ren chuckled.

“Well I think that you’re a talented painter, Ren.” Fluttershy smiled, causing Ren to blush.

“O-oh…thanks Flutter.” Ren chuckled. I couldn’t help but smile at him, glad to finally have him acknowledged Fluttershy like that. Now that’s the reaction I was expecting for him to have when Fluttershy compliments him. Glad to see he’s finally now getting used to this love stuff by now.

“Hey wait! What about me?!” Rainbow exclaimed, looking at Ren with an angry look. “Where’s my art?!”

“Oh right…don’t worry Dash, I forgot about that. I promise that I’ll get right on it.” Ren rubbed his cheek with an embarrassed smile while I chuckled silently. He never fails to surprise me…

“Mason darling…” I turned to see Rarity walking towards with a soft smile and said “I-I want to say thank you again for saving me from Pinkie falling onto me.”

“I was just protecting you. I would never let one of that happened to my friends.” I shrugged before smiling and said “Besides, not even you.”

“And I thank you for that.” Rarity giggled. “But you know, you’re always there for us. I’m glad for that.”

“I’ve been trained to protect my mistress and my little sister back in our world, so it feels like to do that.” I answered. “So of course I have to protect you all.”

Rarity couldn’t help but kissing on my cheek, leaving a lipsticks on my right cheek, catching my off-guard. “W-what?”

“That’s for saving my life. I’m really grateful of that, Mason darling.” Rarity chuckled before returning back to her seat while I blinked in surprise and touched the lipstick, feeling shocked by that. That was quite generous of her to do that, but…my heart belongs to Elena, so…how?

“Tee-hee…looks like my big brother has a crush on Rarity.” Carrie chuckled, catching my off-guard.

“W-what?! Don’t be ridiculous! We’re just friends!” I exclaimed as my sister made a sly grin and said “But why else did she kiss you on the cheek?”

“She has a point.” Kodi nodded, along with the others who had amused looks on their faces.

“W-whatever…” I scoffed, looking out the window and tried to ignore them. Whatever, it was just a kiss…besides, her generosity reminds me of Elena as she would sacrifice anything to protect her people, even me and Carrie. But…can I really hold up that responsibility? I already have my heart for Elena and we started dating a year ago, so…how?



Meanwhile

“How disappointing…” The dark figure gazes over at the train Ren and co. were riding as it heads back to Ponyville as he scoffs “What a pathetic pony she is. Everyone in this new world are just the same as humans. Spineless, greedy, fools who only cares about themselves and never show any type of friendship to others.”

The figure rubbed the lower part of his mask like he was rubbing his chin in thought.

“I was so close too…if my shadows weren’t all destroyed back at that Nightmare Night celebration, then I would’ve had a chance. Besides, the rest were are all somewhere hidden in this world, unlike the one I found back in Tatarus. Hmm…if I find all the remaining shards, then I can be able to revive my powers and create any shadows I want. For now, I only have three more to find.”

The figure took out mulitple dark-like shards out of his baboon cloak-like outfit before shuffling them a bit. 

“Now then Ren Loodan and friends…be ready for the future…because there won’t be one of the hopes you all are imagining. Mhmhmhmhmhmhmh…AHAHAHAHAHAHAH!”



Later

Soon, we finally arrived back to Ponyville as Applejack was ready to tell them the truth.

“Alright…let’s do this.” Applejack muttered before walking outside and exiting out of the train. As soon as she got off the train, she was tackled by her dog, Winona and started licking her. We then saw everypony cheering and happily be excited to see her again. Big Mac ran up and tackled her sister in a dog pile, joined along by Granny Smith and Apple Bloom.

“They’re sure glad to see her again, huh?” Kaede asked as we all stepped out of the train with warm smiles on our faces.

“Yeah…” Jame softly smiled and nodded in agreement.

Soon, Applejack managed to get out of the dog while with a bright smile on her face until she faced Mayor Mare.

“Applejack! We’re so glad to finally see you again!” Mayor Mare exclaimed in joy. “So…did ya win it?”

“Well…see…I don’t have the prize money. I didn’t win first prize for you all…sorry.” Applejack sighed. However, instead of looking disappointed or shock, she returned a warm smile as she put a hoof on Applejack’s shoulder and said “That’s alright…you did your best, but everypony always can’t win anything. I guess we’re gonna have to find another way to get the roof fixing.”

“Why not a fundraiser?” Ren offered. “Surely we could try that.”

“An excellent suggestion, Mr. Loodan. We’ll get on with it.” Mayor Mare chuckled.

“Hey, happy to hear.” Ren shrugged.

With that, everypony said their goodbyes and left, including the Apple family. Applejack couldn’t help but smile softly to see that they didn’t panic or felt disappointed by their lost.

“Heh, here I was…worried for nothing.” Applejack chuckled before turning to us with a warm smile and said “Thanks you all, really.”

“Don’t mention it Applejack.” Twilight smiled.

“Hey! Why not we all have an exciting party to celebrate?!” Pinkie suggested, bouncing around merrily.

“R-really? So soon?” Jamie asked incredulous.

“That’s sound like a good idea Pinkie!” Carrie agreed.

“Yeah! Same here!” Kodi agreed.

“Alright alright, let’s go back to the home-ship. We can go and celebrate our party there.” I suggested.

“Yay!” Carrie, Pinkie, Kodi, and Rosy became joyed to hear.

“Well let’s go then!” Ren exclaimed with a joyful look on his face.

“Couldn’t agree more.” Fluttershy nodded as we began walking back to the home-ship, ready to have another relaxing day after that mission we had. Oh well, I’m already interested in cooking some goods for my friends. We deserved it and it’ll take our minds off for today…



Ren’s P.O.V.

“Man, I’m so hungry…” Kodi groaned.

“Seriously?” Rainbow gaped. “You and Rosy ate like a ton of cherry pies yesterday! How are you not full?”

“He has a bottomless pit for a stomach.” I commented.

“Almost like Pinkie Pie.” Twilight added.

“What can I say? I’m a very hungry hungry dog.” Kodi laughed.

“Ain’t that the truth?” Fluttershy giggled as we were almost there to the home-ship.

“Man, it’s been a while, hasn’t it?” Kaede muttered.

“Well we were out of Ponyville for about a day and half, so I wouldn’t say for a while.” Jamie pointed out.

“Well either way, I’m so hungry. Haven’t had breakfast for a while.” Kaede groaned.

“Me too…” Carrie rubbed her aching stomach, causing Mason to let out a chuckle.

“Just hang on you guys, we’ll get you all something to eat while we celebrate at least.” Mason shrugged as he was about to open the door until we heard a crashing sound echoing inside, causing us all to freeze.

“D-did…anypony hear that?” Fluttershy asked fearfully.

“It sounded like it was coming inside.” Twilight pointed out.

“Yeah…what the heck was that?” Ren wondered. Suddenly, we began to hear voices echoing inside as well.

“Jeez, you can’t catch a break for a fat guy.”

“I ain’t fat you little piece of crap! I’m husky!”

“What?” Mason asked himself before immediately kicking the door opened and took out his bamboo pole as we all gazed upon the scene. What?! Two…other people are in here?! Apparently, we all saw two new humans. 

One was a pale skin man wearing a worn-out white fedora with curly brown hair and had olive eyes, along with a pencil thin-out goatee, just a beard but with no mustache, his attire was a white striped sweater that has a chain accessory pinned to it, with baggy, purple sarouel pants, and black slippers. His sweater had a big red star symbol on it, making it look like it was a setting sun, along with a red tie that has various swords with skulls attached to it as they crossed like an X on top, middle, and low. 

The other guy had an olive skin tone with a short and messy Justin light blonde hair-like style with hazel colored eyes, wearing a short collared white long overcoat, which seems to looks like a motorcycle biker gang member would wear. The back of his coat held a skull symbol on it. He also wore a white tank top  that seems to cover his entire gut. He even had baggy white pants with an enormous dark chain attached to the left side of his huge baggy brown pants with a men’s cotton belt wrapped around it. Apparently this guy…was quite intimidating with his obese figure. His gut was really large, almost to as a sumo wrestler, and his face was quite chubby. He had to be like 320 pounds or something.

Soon, the biker man grabbed the pale man by the tie with an furious look on his face. 

“You little bastard! You better tell me where the heck am I or else!” He demanded, causing the pale boy to give the biker a smug look while he rolled his eyes and said 

“Do I look like I know about this place? I barely know about this situation. Besides, I don’t even know how I even got here except arriving in some white bod. Besides, I saw you woke up in that pod as well, so let’s think about, okay?”

He let out a snicker and said “Unless of course you even have a brain in there?”

“The heck you say?!” He exclaimed, ready to punch him.

“Hey! Stop that!” Kaede shouted, gaining both of their attention as the larger biker dropped the pale man on the ground as he walked towards us with a snarl.

“Who are you to tell me who to stop? You all kidnapped me in this crazy apartment?!” He exclaimed in anger, causing Carrie to hide behind me in fear while Mason while he looked at him with narrow eyes.

“We didn’t kidnap you! So stop!” Kaede exclaimed.

“She’s right!” Ren agreed. He snarled at them before noticing Twilight and the others as he formed a confused look and asked “What the heck is up with the colorful ponies? What? You painted those animals of yours?”

“Hey! We belong to no one!” Rainbow exclaimed, flying up to his face.

“And the correct term is ponies.” Twilight corrected him.

“W-what the heck?! Is this prank?!” He yelled.

“P-please calm down.” Fluttershy begged.

“Shut up or else I’ll beat ya!” He exclaimed, showing off his angry expression, causing her to yelp in fear before hiding behind Ren, who grabbed the handle of the Hacking Gun.

“W-wait! You can’t punch her! S-She’s a girl and it’s not right to punch a-a girl!” Jamie said, stepping up to the biker with a worried look. The biker gave him a smug look before putting his hand on Jamie’s shoulder and said “Listen you, I don’t take orders from a fool! Especially someone who kidnapped me in this place!”

Jamie widened his eyes and spat out some of his spit as the biker knee’d him in the stomach.

“Jamie!” Twilight exclaimed as she, Kaede, Rainbow Dash and Applejack came to his side to try and help him out. Twilight then glared at the biker and exclaimed “Why in Equestria would you do that?!”

“Enough with these games! I want an explanation on knowing how the heck to get out of here!” The big guy demanded, causing me to glare at him as I stepped up and exclaimed “Calm down! You don’t have to be rude and kick my friend in the gut like that! He can’t defend himself!”

“What? You giving me lectures?! Are you my frigging dad or something?!” He exclaimed in anger.

“W-what? No I-”

“Shut up!” He raised his fist in the air and prepared to punch me directly in the face. Well I didn’t anticipate this! As I closed my eyes, I didn’t feel the punch at all. Huh? Now what? As soon as I opened my eyes, I saw Mason blocking the biker’s punch by grabbing his hand as he gave him a dark glare and said “Don’t you dare hurt my friend at all!”

“W-what the? Who the heck are you?!” The biker demanded, glaring angrily at him as Mason pushed him away and said “Someone who you shouldn’t messed with. Now calm down.”

“Mason’s right.” Rarity agreed, glaring at the big guy. “You’re acting like a brute!”

“Shut up! I didn’t need your opinion you pampour pony!” He scoffed, causing Rarity to squawk at the guy.

“Everyone, please calm down.” We turned to the man wearing the fedora hat as he calmly said “I see how this is going and I like to say that you’re starting to annoy me, even with the crowd.”

“Okay?” Twilight raised a brow at him. 

“And who the hay are you?” Rainbow questioned.

“Sorry, can’t reveal my name to a bunch of strangers. Especially to brutes.” He commented, ignoring the growl coming from the biker. “But I would say kindly let me leave and I’ll be happily on my way.”

“W-what?” Applejack questioned. “Now hold up! You can’t just leave without telling who you are!”

“Yeah I can. I’m a grown adult, so please kindly leave little pony.” He said with an annoyed glance at us.

“Not until I want answers! Tell me where the heck I am you bastard!” The big guy demanded, ready to pounce and beat this guy senselessly. I really want to stop this right now, but it’ll only lead to more problems.

“If you’re gonna attack me…well in your for some big trouble, big guy.” The man snickered, causing him to form a confused look.

“What?” The big guy asked.

“Let’s just say I have a secret weapon, so…bye-bye.” He said, taking it out of his pockets and aiming the weapon at him.

“No! Look out!” I yelled, running to the big guy and taking the shot myself. “AHHHH!”

Apparently, the weapon the man took out was a tazer, and I was being electrocuted right while everyone became shocked and surprised upon seeing this while the man looked slightly surprised by what just happened. 

“W-what…?” The big guy asked in surprise.

“U-ugh…” I muttered before slowly closing my eyes and fell to the ground before hearing muffling sounds.

“Ren!” Fluttershy…Mason…everypony…I’m so sorry. Why did I save this guy? Who are these two? Am I…gonna wake up from this?

To Be Continued
> Chapter 44 - The SSCS 6000!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Ren...I'm scared..." 
...Where am I? That voice...is that my sister? I looked down to see my sister, whose hair was brown and short as she was holding onto me real tight, and I heard some whimpers coming from her.

"Ren...what are we gonna do?" Lillie asked in worried, looking at me with tear-filled eyes. Before I could reply, I heard shouts and banging coming outside before I looked over and saw my parents barricading the door as it kept banging. I heard the shouts...they were full of anger, envy, and such. I heard it all...it's...filled with despair. What's going on?

"Hey now..." I looked down to my sister with a soft smile and said "Everything is going to be alright! We're gonna be fine."

"O-okay..." She replied, wiping away her tears until we heard another banging knocking into the door.

"LET US AT THE BRAT! HE DESERVES DAMNATION!" One of the people outside screamed.

"Ren! You need to get out of here!" I felt a hand on my shoulder, turning to see my older brother, whose hair was the same color as mine, but lighter. 

"W-what? Jonas?!" I asked in surprise.

"We'll keep them busy! You need to get out of here! They're only after you!" What is he talking about? I-I don't understand what's happening.

"B-but...!" 

"Please Ren..." I turned to my father, who gave me a serious and soft grin. "You need to get out of here and run as fast as you can."

"Y-you...you really mean that, dad?" I asked, feeling tears coming out of my eyes.

"Yeah. Remember playing that Sonic Dash game on your tablet? I need you to go as fast as him and never look back!" He said, filling me with determination and hope.

"But what about you guys?" I asked in worried.

"Ren..." My mom came over and hugged me tightly, holding back her tears. She looked at me and said "We'll always be in your heart. Just run and don't look back!"

"We'll keep them busy little bro." Jonas ruffled my hair a bit, causing me to chuckle until we heard a loud crashing sound coming upstairs.

"They're breaking into the house! You need to go now!" My father demanded. "Go Ren! Go!"

"O-okay!" I nodded before feeling my backpack on my back, which confused me. I must've had it on without me noticing. 

"Ren..." Lillie looked at me with a curious look and asked "Are you gonna come back?"

I held my breath and darkened my face, wondering if that's ever gonna happen. I didn't want her to lose faith in me. So I gave her one answer.

"Don't worry Lillie, I'll come back." It seemed to work as Lillie smiled happily to hear before hugging me, along with my brother.

"Hey little bro, are you gonna fix this?" Jonas asked seriously, which I nodded and said "Yeah!"

"Ren..." Jonas raised his fist at me, gesturing to do a fist-bump with me, which I did. "Fix it!"

I nodded before running off to the back door. Luckily, no one thought of going through here! I kept running through the door until once I grabbed the doorknob, a light began shining brightly, causing everything to fade away...like a dream...U-ugh....what's happening? Everything...is going....static...



"AH!" I gasped, getting up with sweat forming around my head before I winced in pain. What the? What happened?

"Ren! You're awake!" I was soon hugged by a familiar yellow pegasus, who was feeling extremely worried for me. "I thought you would never wake up! I-I thought...!"

"You're alive!" I felt my face getting licked by a familiar Siberian Husky, who felt enjoyed to see me once again.

"Geez Fluttershy, Kodiak, take it easy!" I looked over to see Rainbow Dash, Mason and Carrie slowly waking up as they were resting up on the couches before they became relieved and joy to see me. Well Rainbow Dash, however, had an annoyed look on her face, looking towards Fluttershy in an irritated state. "I'm sure Ren is fine, but you don't gotta give him all your love like that!"

"O-oh! So sorry!" Fluttershy apologized, letting go of me with embarrassment written all over her face. "I-I didn't mean to hurt you more, Ren!"

"Nah, it's alright." I assured before stretching my back a little. "What happened?"

"You got electrocuted by that man from earlier." Mason explained, crossing his arms with a serious and stern look on his face. "You were lucky that tazer didn't directly electrocuted you to death."

"You can say that again..." I agreed. "Wait...where are we?" I looked around my surroundings, seeing myself where I am now.

"You're in Fluttershy's cottage." Carrie answered. "We all waited for you to wake up and hopefully wake up."

"Yeah, you were out for about a week." Kodi added, much to my shock.

"A-a week?!" I exclaimed. "No way! I was out like that!"

"Seems so. That tazer apparently held more electric power. I never knew that guy even had a weapon like that." Mason muttered before smiling softly at me before putting a hand on my shoulder. "But more importantly, I'm glad that you're still alright Ren. But next time, don't make our hearts race out like that!"

"R-right...sorry dude." I chuckled nervously before getting up from the small couch. "But man...a week. I probably missed some events."

"Not much. We all were just waiting and most of us had to leave." Kodi explained, resting his head on my lap. "Twilight, Jamie, Kaede, Pinkie, Rarity, and Applejack had to leave for some reasons."

"Yeah! Obviously for Cider season!" Rainbow exclaimed, feeling impatient.

"Cider season?" I asked in confusion. Wait, isn't that...?

"Duh! Cider season is what the Apple family does every year! They sell apple ciders to everypony here in Ponyville! Everypony knows that." Rainbow crossed her forelegs with a serious look.

"Technically, we're not that 'everypony', Rainbow Dash." Mason said sternly.

"Oh...right..." Rainbow rubbed her head bashfully before shaking her head and exclaimed "But seriously though! You guys got to try it! It's the best drink in all of Equestria!" Rainbow exclaimed in excitement, flying around in circles. "Made by the best apples by Applejack's family of course!"

"But I thought Apple cider is something until you're really old enough to drink. That's what my big brother always tells me." Carrie explained, causing Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash to raise brows at him.

"What does she mean?" Rainbow questioned.

"See, in our world, Apple Cider is a alcoholic drink that only those at the age of 20 must have." Mason explained. "It's very dangerous and could affect your health, you know."

"Oh no Mason! Applejack and her family never put anything alcoholic!" Fluttershy assured. "She only makes the apple cider out of apples, that's all."

"You know, she does make a good point." I nodded with agreement before saying "And let me tell ya, since when did Applejack ever put alcoholic drink in an apple cider?"

"Hmm...fine..." Mason sighed.

"Yay!" Carrie cheered.

"Well I'm more excited to drink it myself." Kodi licked his lips, causing me to smirk at him while shaking my head. 

"Well we should hurry because it's already morning, and I wanna hurry!" Rainbow whined. "The line is gonna be pack soon!"

"Relax Rainbow Dash, I'm sure it's gonna be a few ponies since the sun is almost setting." Mason rolled his eyes.

"Well if it wasn't for those two guys, then Ren wouldn't been unconscious for a whole week and I would've been first in line!" Rainbow exclaimed impatiently, causing me to smile nervously at her. Actually, speaking of which...

"Hey, I never did asked but...what happened to those two guys?" I asked, causing everyone to hesitate on that, except for Mason as he gripped his shoulders with an furious look.

"The man that shocked you, he somehow slipped away while you rushed towards you while you went unconscious. He used that moment to his advantage. He's been hiding around town for a while since many ponies stated on seeing a slim guy hiding behind the shadows." Mason explained.

"Y-yeah, big brother even told me to stay away from that guy." Carrie agreed with a nod.

"That guy is a total creep." Kodi commented.

"I know, but I'm sure that man didn't mean to." Fluttershy assured with a weak grin. "He was trying to defend himself from the...umm...."

"I'm right here, you know?" Fluttershy wrapped her forelegs around my left arm in fear as we saw a fat biker man walking out with some crumbs left on his mouth. 

"H-hey, you're...!" I exclaimed in shock, realizing who he was.

"Yeah, yeah. Whatever." He rolled, crossing his arms in a huff. "Look...t-thanks for saving my life. Who knew you had the guts to do that."

"Hey, it was nothing." I rubbed my head bashfully with a sheepish smile. "Besides, I just didn't want anyone to fight. It just wasn't right."

"Tch! Yeah right! Fighting always feels like the right moment to teach a squirt like him a lesson." He scoffed. "By the way, names Jack Yamaki. Nice to frigging meet'cha."

"Thanks, Ren Loodan the names." I gave him a thumbs-up with a smile on my face. "This is my...girlfriend, Fluttershy." Fluttershy brushed her hair a bit, feeling embarrassed of that. "And this is my best pal, Kodiak. Kodi for short." I patted Kodi's head, causing him to chuckle a bit. 

"Yeah yeah, I get it." Jack put his arms in his coat pockets in an annoyed state. "They told me their names for a while. That yellow pony even told me that you were her special somepony or what crap it meant."

"In other words, it means that a couple." Mason clarified. 

"I-I knew what it was idiot! You told me a bunch of times!" Jack yelled, gritting his teeth and raising his fist at Mason in anger.

"Well next time, learn to not punch people from what you see." Mason said sternly.

"Yeah! You nearly could've knocked Ren out!" Rainbow exclaimed before muttering "Which was ironic..."

"S-shut up! The heck did I do?!" Jack exclaimed. "I said I was sorry, was I not?!"

"It's gonna take a long while for any of us to accept it." Mason said sternly. Jack growled angrily at him while Carrie held her brother's hand in fear.

"Well, ain't that the truth?" Rainbow agreed, rolling her eyes. 

"Shut it skittles!" Jack exclaimed, angering Rainbow Dash.

"Who are you calling 'Skittles', fatty?!" Rainbow glared angrily at him.

"The heck did ya say?!" 

"Everyone! Calm down!" I yelled, getting back on my feet and standing between Jack and Rainbow Dash. "Look! Let's just calm down and try to be friendly. I mean, it's okay. Jack didn't mean to try and punch me back then. So let's try to start over and forget about our first meeting. Let's just try and be friends?"

"Tch! Yeah right, what I should be doing is wondering where the heck is the exit?" Jack scoffed, causing the others to groan.

"How many times do you need to hear?" Mason asked irritably. "You can't leave the place. We're trapped in this world until we can try to find a way back."

"Like I would believe a punk like ya idiot!" Jack exclaimed, bursting with anger.

"Really? Exploding in anger for something minor like that? Who's the idiot now?" Mason scoffed.

"What?!"

"Guys, come on..." I groaned. Why can't we just be friendly here?

"Please everypony." Fluttershy begged. "I mean, we shouldn't be fighting. Besides, my animals are asleep and I don't wanna wake them up."

Fluttershy pointed out the window as we all gaze out and saw them relaxing and sleeping peacefully out there in Fluttershy's little sanctuary-like garden.

"Right, we apologize Fluttershy." Mason bowed.

"Yeah, my big brother and Jack didn't mean to." Carrie apologized.

"What the heck did I do?!" Jack exclaimed in anger. "You're the one who started it!"

"Technically, it was kinda you." Kodi pointed out.

"Why you!" Jack held back the anger inside as he gritted his teeth. Kodi walked next to me in fear he might try to hurt us.

"Well now..." I sighed before smiling softly at Jack and said "I'm just glad we can start over Jack. I just hope we can be good friends."

"Tch! Whatever..." Jack scoffed, crossing his arms before sighing and softening his expression. "Well...at least you're the only one who forgives me, right?"

"Right!" I nodded with a grin.

“Good! Now you finally forgave each other!” Rainbow sighed impatiently while Mason rolled his eyes and commented “Not most of us.”

“Whatever! Now let’s get going now!” Rainbow exclaimed, flying out of the cottage in a rush. I blinked in surprise before saying “Wow, she really wants to try out that apple cider.”

“Well what you expect? Apple Cider is good. I even drink some of myself.” Jack grinned, wiping the crumbs out of his mouth. I gave him an incredulous look, hoping that he was joking about that right?

“Wait, you drink Apple cider? Like…back in our world?” I asked curiously.

“Yeah, got a problem?” Jack sneered.

“No, I’m just surprised that you do. I thought people over 20 can drink alcoholic drink?” Jack rolled his eyes at me before saying “Well for your information, I’m 21.”

“Wait what?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“Yeah, even I was taken by surprise how old he was.” Fluttershy stated. “I never expected someone 21 years old would awakened in the home-ship.”

“Yeah well, it’s what you least expected.” Jack scoffed.

“Some of us didn’t felt surprise how old he was.” Mason sighed. “I was surprised that he acts like a little kid with a temper problem.”

“The heck did you say bastard?!” Jake growled angrily.

“Big brother…” Carrie sighed, shaking her head at her brother for still keeping a grudge at Jack.

“Well, should we go?” Kodi asked. I let out a shrug and answered “Guess so. Besides, I do wanna try out this Apple cider myself. After all, it’s made from Applejack and her family, and I know that they wouldn’t put alcohol in it. It’s bad for us back in our world.”

“Really? Is it that bad?” Fluttershy asked in worried as she began packing some stuff in her basket.

“Yeah, it affects our health and could lead us to many diseases.” I nodded with a serious look on my face.

“Which is why it’s illegal for young people to do that kind of stuff until they’re in their adult years.” Mason agreed, with Carrie nodding.

“Wow, it must be that dangerous for it to be illegal.” Kodi shivered in fear before shaking his head with a grin. “But either way, I’m sure the apple cider here in Equestria isn’t that bad. Besides, it’s just a mug filled with fresh apples, right?”

“Exactly Kodi, old pal!” I scratched underneath his chin, causing him to pant happily. I smiled over my pal before noticing the smirk on Jake’s head. He soon noticed before looking away with an upset look. I guess he was enjoying seeing me get along with him.

“Hey! What’s taking you guys so long?!” Wah! Where did she come from?! Rainbow Dash somehow came back right behind me with an angry and impatient look. “We need to go pronto!”

“Yeah yeah, hold your horses, skittles.” Jack rolled his eyes, ignoring the angry look from her.

“Don’t worry Rainbow Dash, we’re hurrying.” Fluttershy assured before finishing up with her basket. “Oh and Ren, umm…”

She soon took something out of her draw, revealing to be my Hacking Gun. “I-I think this belongs to you…”

“My hacking gun?” I asked in confusion.

“Y-yes, I thought you needed it back. When you were still unconscious, I put away your hacking gun for safekeeping.” Fluttershy smiled before handing it back to me. I couldn’t help but smiled at her, feeling quite happy that she would do that for me.

“Heh heh, thanks Flutters. You never cease to amaze me.” I smiled, causing her to glance away with a blush.

“Oh for god’s sake, just kiss already!” We looked back with Jack with an impatient look, letting air out of his nostrils. I guess Rainbow Dash isn’t the only impatient one around here.

“R-right, sorry.” Me and Fluttershy apologized, causing us to both to look at each other in surprise before glancing away with blushes. Carrie and Kodi let out some chuckles while Mason couldn’t help but make a small smile on his face, barely visible from his scarf.

“Come on! You guys can make out later! Get going!” Rainbow exclaimed, pushing us both out of the cottage while the others followed after us. Jeez, is Dash really that serious on getting that apple cider? It has to be if she’s that impatient. Must taste real good! It might even taste good…just like apple juice.

And so, we began running through a path that lead us towards Sweet Apple Acres, but Rainbow Dash was way ahead of us with a determined look on her face.

“So any reason why you’re so impatient as that guy over there?” Mason questioned, ignoring the protest from a certain blonde biker.

“Because I need to taste that apple cider right now! Every year, Pinkie Pie somehow manages to be the first pony to get apple cider and buys like 10 mugs!” Rainbow explained, forming an irritated look on her face.

“That kinda sounds unfair Rainbow Dash.” Carrie said, being carried by her brother.

“Exactly! It is unfair!” Rainbow exclaimed before letting out a chuckle and a sly grin. “But this time…I know for sure that I’ll be able to outrun her!”

“Too bad that the sun just rose, huh?” Kodi commented.

“Don’t worry. Some ponies don’t wake up that early anyway.” Rainbow assured, waving her hoof casually. “Since we’re totally gonna be, like, the next customers. The line won’t be long.”

“W-whatever! Just slow down a bit!” Jake exclaimed, panting heavily as we kept running. “I can’t run that fast! I rather get there faster with my bike!”

“Bike?” I asked curiously before realizing the motorcycle jacket of his. “Oh, so you are a biker, right?”

“H-huh? Y-you know?” Jake asked in surprise. “W-what gave it away?”

“Your jacket.” I pointed out, causing him to make a tooth-eating grin and said “So? You like it, eh? Well I don’t mean to brag, but my dad makes the best jacket for the Yamaki biker family!”

“So your whole family is a group of bikers, huh?” 

“Yes, he told us about that when we interrogated him.” Mason yelled as we were almost near Sweet Apple Acres. “But we’ll explain later, right now we need to-”

Before he could finish, I accidentally bumped into something right in front of me as I fell on my back. 

“Ow!” I muttered, rubbing my aching back. 

“Hey! Watch it!” I looked over to see a brown pony looking back at me with an angry look.

“Sorry man.” I apologized as he turns back, and just stood there.

“Ren, are you okay?” Fluttershy asked in concern.

“Yeah, I’m alright.” I assured with a smile.

“What the hay?!” Rainbow exclaimed, seeing something in front of us. We all looked over and jaw-dropped onto seeing such a long line to Sweet Apple Acres.

“Exactly, what the hay?!” Kodi gaped.

“You can’t be serious, right?” Mason asked, face-palming.

“What the f-”

“Hey! You can’t swear Jacky! You should know that this show is for the young ones, right?” Huh? We looked over to see somepony walking over, which was revealed to be Pinkie Pie with a stern look on her face.

“Pinkie Pie?!” I exclaimed in surprise, causing her to turn to me with a surprise yet happy gasp as she came over and hugged me tightly. 

“Oh Rennie! You’re okay! Oh! I need you were okay! I just knew you were!” Pinkie exclaimed in joy, nearly crushing my back.

“Y-yeah, I’m glad to see you too.” I chuckled nervously before she put me down. “So what’s up with the long line?”

“You gotta be kidding me! You’re in the front of the line!…Again?!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“Yep-a-doodles!” Pinkie nodded.

“The heck’s wrong with this chick anyway?” Jack questioned. “She’s been acting so weird for the past week.” 

“Trust us, we’re all questioning her.” Mason sighed. “But we learned to forget to ever ask that question.”

“So you came in first?” Carrie asked curiously, moving back to the main topic.

“Oh yes! Since everypony was so eager and probably missed out the good taste of the apple cider, I told everypony last night to come and wait in line in front of Sweet Apple Acres and camp out here till Cider season was officially opened!” Pinkie grinned. “Even Jamie, Twilight, Kaede, Rarity, Spike, and that weirdo with the hat is here.”

“I see…” I nodded before wondering about the last part. “Wait…weirdo with the hat?”

“Oh yeah! That guy with the fedora from earlier! You know, the one who shocked you and knocked you out for a whole week, remember?” Pinkie explained, much to our shock.

“What?!” Fluttershy gasped.

“And you never bothered to find that suspicious that he was here?!” Mason exclaimed angrily. “The man who shocked Ren to near death with a tazer?!”

“Yes…no…maybe so!” Pinkie shrugged. 

“Un-fu-” Before Jack could finished, his mouth was sticked with duct tape on it, and it had the word ‘censor’ on it. Pinkie put away the duct tape back in her mane and sternly stated “Nah-ah-ah Mr. Yamaki! You can’t swear at all in this fanfic. The writers hasn’t even thought about putting bad words in this. Unless him or the fans wants to or not.”

She glanced over to something and started waving her hoof around, causing us all to feel weirded out by that.

“Umm…who is she waving, big brother?” Carrie whispered.

“I…have no clue.” Mason shook his head before glaring at the pink pony. “So where is he?”

“Oh, I saw him hanging around in the front of the line. He looked really curious about the apple cider!” Pinkie explained before we heard a bell rang. “Ooh! It’s starting! Gotta get back to the front of the line! Bye!”

With that, Pinkie Pie immediately ran off with an excited look on her face as Rainbow Dash twitched her eyes in annoyance before falling down on her knees with a shocked look.

“Oh dear…” Fluttershy muttered as she came over and patted her on the back. “It’s okay Rainbow Dash, there’s always next year.” 

Rainbow soon began to form an angry look before screaming “NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

We all covered our ears from the loud screaming, even some ponies from behind covered their ears and looks back in surprise from that intense screaming. Hot dang! That scream probably echoed all over Ponyville! Jack managed to get the duct tape out of his mouth with a bewildered and furious look on her face. 

“What the heck was that for?! That little squirt!” Jack growled angrily.

“Just calm down.” Mason said sternly.

“I AM CALM!” Jack yelled angrily.

“You’re acting like an angry bull.” Jack gritted his teeth angrily, ready to knock out Mason.

“You guys! Stop!” I pleaded, getting in between them. “You guys are only gonna make things worse!”

“Ren, I understand that…” Mason glared over at Jack and said “But this guy gotten you electrocuted.”

“Mason, it was my own fault, remember?” I reminded him. “He and that other guy were fighting it out and I had to do something to step in. Besides, he was pretty frustrated and confused of where he was when we first met last week, right? So I can’t blame him. I mean, you were pretty confused and almost ready to attack when we first met, remember?”

Mason tried to argue back, but realized that I was right. He then let out a sigh and muttered “Alright…”

“Ha! Looks like your friend is taking my side!” Jack grinned, causing me to turn around with a glare and said “I’m taking no one side. I’m trying to make sure you guys don’t fight at all. It’s not gonna lead us anyway, okay?”

“B-but…!”

“Ren is right.” Fluttershy came over with a stern and soft look. “You need to be polite, Mr. Jack. So please stop this fighting and let’s be friends.”

Jack went silent, shocked to hear the two of us shutting him up with our polite and stern talk.

“Frigging dang it…fine.” Jack scoffed, glancing away from us. “Fine…”

“Thank you…” Me and Fluttershy said in unison, causing us both to look at each other and chuckled.

“Once again, you managed to win by talking to them, Ren and Fluttershy.” Kodi laughed. “You’re really good motivating people, are ya?”

“Well, it’s what I do best.” I rubbed my head bashfully. “Besides, Fluttershy is good at this too.”

“Well…I’m good at talking politely, but not in others.” Fluttershy muttered. “I-I’m just shy…”

How ironic…and yet funny, Flutters.

“Well, at least it’ll show you two to stop fighting now.” Carrie giggled.

“Yeah, and can they keep it down? It’s like hearing two dogs barking at each other.” Huh? Who said that? We turned around and gasped upon seeing who it was walking towards us. 

“It’s you!” I exclaimed, pointing to the man wearing the fedora and such. “You’re…..Wait, who are you? I never got your name.”

“Looks like you’re awake. Good thing my tazer didn’t kill ya.” He smirked, causing some of us to glare at him.

“That’s not funny! You could’ve killed him!” Mason exclaimed sternly. “I’ve been looking all over the place for you. So you decided to show your face, huh?”

“Well I thought it was getting boring.” He picked his ear in annoyance before letting out a grin at us. “Besides, I’ve been studying around this place. Although, I’m surprised that I’m in some other world.”

“Don’t worry! It’s quite a beautiful world.” Carrie giggled with a smile. 

“Says you little girl.” He snickered before covering his mouth as I hear him muttered “Although, how exactly did I end up here? This never happens to me in these type of situations.”

“Huh? Did you say something?” Kodiak asked curiously. The man glances over at the dog and said “I’m really surprised that the dog can even talk. Guess this world really is magical.”

“Of course it is.” I stated with a smile. “This world is filled with talking ponies, Pegasus, and unicorns. Trust us, it’s quite awesome.”

“Heh…spoken like a kid. Besides, really? Talking ponies? That sounds like something a seven year old could’ve come up with.” He shrugged with a nonchalant look on his face. “Anyway, besides all the crap and junk, what’s up with this place? Why exactly am I hear?”

“You woken up in a pod, remember?” Carrie reminded.

“And it seems like you’re stuck here until you all can find a way back.” Fluttershy added.

“Until now, you’re here with them. Besides…” Rainbow got into his face with a glare and said “You still haven’t told us your name nor apologized to Ren for nearly electrocuting him to death.”

“And I’m sorry then.” He shrugged with a smug look and said “And I’ll tell ya my name…for 1,000,000 dollars.”

“What the heck?! 1,000,000 dollars?!” Jack exclaimed in anger. “We don’t have that much cash!”

“Yeah! And that kind of money isn’t even in our world!” I added, feeling surprised by that before turning to Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash and asked “I mean, what’s the conversation rate for that?”

“I…don’t know.” Fluttershy shrugged.

“What do we look like? Math geeks? That’s Twilight and Jamie’s job for ya.” Rainbow rolled her eyes. Soon, we saw the line moving up a bit with Pinkie carrying about ten mugs in her hooves, causing Rainbow Dash to bit her lower lip in fear. “Oh dang it! I wished this line would move!”

“Oh? You interested in those apple ciders?” Fedora man asked curiously before shrugging “Makes sense since not every one of these ponies are gonna get some of the drinks.”

“Watch it!” Rainbow gritted her teeth at him. “I’m totally gonna get it in this line!”

“You wanna some cider? Well…have I got an offer for ya?” We all raised a brow at him before he pulled out several mugs of apple cider behind his back, much to our shock.

“Whoa! Where did you get all that?!” Carrie asked in amazement and awe.

“Oh, let’s just say it was such a good deal I made from that farm pony since I came after that pink pony with the puffy mane.” He smirked, causing Mason to narrow his eyes at him. I think he was just talking about Pinkie Pie. I mean, Rainbow stated that she somehow always end being first in line and all that.  “But let’s say you guys can have this…for ten bucks.”

“Ten bucks?!” Jack exclaimed angrily. “That’s highway robbery there!”

“And we don’t have the bits for that, neither the bits to tell you our name.” Kodi sighed. “Besides, I’m just a dog. I don’t have any bits to buy things.”

I scratched Kodi underneath the chin, causing him to sigh happily as I said “It’s okay bud, I don’t blame ya.”

“Then I don’t have business with ya then.” He sighed in annoyance. “Besides, I think of that cash somewhere before? Aren’t those ‘bits’ arcade cash coins or something?”

“Oh no! They’re Equestria’s currency.” Fluttershy explained with a soft grin. “Princess Celestia made them herself.”

“Princess…Celestia? Okay, now you guys are just making things harder on me.” He sighed in annoyance. “Besides, this talk is getting us nowhere. Tell ya what…you guys can give me these ‘bits’ and I’ll tell ya my name.”

“Okay, that sounds like a good deal.” I said with a smile.

“Wait, hold on…” Mason glared at the man suspciously and asked “Just how much exactly?”

“Just about…1,000,000 bits.” He shrugged with a smug look, causing me to jaw-dropped.

“But I don’t have the money for that either!” I exclaimed.

“Then our talk is done and no one gets these apple ciders, then.” He scoffed in annoyance. “I’ll just take my leave and-”

“Oh come on! Let me have it!” Rainbow begged. “Please! I never ever bought a single mug of apple cider in my whole entire life since I moved to Ponyville! Please!”

“Alright…for ten bits or so.” He chuckled, causing Rainbow to pout. 

“But I only have three bits, which is the price for the apple cider Applejack and her family always accepts!” Rainbow retorted.

“And yet I’m not that farm girl or whatnot.” He shrugged before saying “So if you don’t want these apple ciders, I’ll take my leave and find someone else who wants it.”

“Wait? You aren’t gonna drink one yourself?” Carrie asked, tilting her head a bit.

“I already tasted it. Doesn’t taste like the ones back home.” He stated, looking away from us. 

“Wait…so does that make you over 20 as well?” I asked in confusion.

“Ugh…yes. I’ll tell my age then…I’m 20 years old. There, ya happy?” He sighed in exasperation. “Man, you guys ask a lot of questions.”

“Well we do wanna know a lot about ya.” Kodi pointed out, which I nodded.

“Whatever. If you guys don’t have 1,000,000 dollars and/or bits, then I’ll happily take my leave.” He stated as he began walking off. “Also…” He let out a smirk and said “Tell that Applejack pony that she might run low on buying some apple cider today.”

“What?” I asked in confusion.

“Whatever, see ya.” He sighed before walking away. 

“Wait! Hold on!” I yelled, causing him to stop and glanced towards me as he irritably asked “What now?”

“I think you have no choice but to tell us. After all, you are really sorry for electrocuting me, then I’ll forgive you and make the others trust and forgive you by telling us your name.” I explained with a serious look, surprising the others.

“…You know, he’s got a good point.” Rainbow shrugged. The fedora man looked at me for a moment before letting out a chuckle and shrugged “Alright, I got no choice. You know how to make good deals. I like that.”

“So…are you gonna tell us or not?” Jack asked, crossing his arms in a huff.

“Yeah, yeah, I got it fatso.” The fedora man grinned, ignoring the protest coming out from the biker. “Call me Rantaro Wilde. It’s nice to meet ya and see ya. If ya want another talk from me, give me some of those bits since this world doesn’t have the money we used anyway. See ya…”

“Wait! What about the drinks?!” Rainbow yelled.

“Got any dough on me?” Rantaro asked.

“W-well…not that much…”

“Wait!” Fluttershy stated, pulling out some bits out of her pockets. “I think I have enough for some of us.”

“Now that’s more like it.” Rantaro grinned in a smug look. She handed her the bits as he gave her the mugs of apple cider, much to Rainbow Dash’s joy as she swiped one from Fluttershy and immediately drank some, much to her joy. “Welp, I’m off. Stay classy you all.”

With that, Rantaro walked off from a distance before disappearing.

“Well…he sure was an interesting guy.” Kodi commented.

“Tell me about it.” I sighed with a tired look. “But he makes the craziest prices. I mean, what is he? Some business man or something?”

“But I thought business people wearing suits?” Carrie pointed out.

“Pfft! Probably some advertiser or something.” Jack scoffed. “I’m not bothering to be in the same room with that guy.”

I then noticed Mason kept quiet as he crossed his arms with a serious and thoughtful look on his face. 

“What’s wrong Mason?” I asked curiously.

“It’s that guy. Rantaro Wilde…I feel like I’ve heard that name before. But I don’t know where…” Mason muttered. 

“Really? You know him big brother?” Carrie asked in surprise as Fluttershy handed her a mug of apple cider and drank it, feeling amazed by how it taste. “Wow! This cider really is good! Taste like apples!”

“Well it is called ‘apple cider’ for a reason.” Rainbow commented before sighing in relief. “But that felt so good…”

“Anyway…” Mason cleared his throat, moving back to the original topic. “I know I heard that name ‘Rantaro Wilde’ from somewhere, but where?”

“Yeah, I think I’ve even seen that bastard before as well. And I don’t mean back at that weird apartment like spaceship.” Jack agreed, crossing his arms in thought. 

“Hmm…I wonder who he is…” I muttered, rubbing my chin in thought before Fluttershy handed me a mug. “Oh, thanks Flutters.”

“Anytime Ren.” Fluttershy giggled before she and I took a drink of it.

…Oh god! It taste awesome! Oh man, now I see why everypony likes it so much! It really taste so good! I can even taste the sweet apples in it!

“Wow! De-licious!” I commented with a happy smile.

“I know right? It was nice for that Rantaro man to give us some cider…with some prices, that is.” Fluttershy giggled nervously.

“You know, you didn’t have to give him the money. I would’ve pay it for ya.” I said, feeling guilty for it.

“Don’t worry, it was nothing.” Fluttershy assured with a soft grin. “Besides, you were unconscious and didn’t have time to get your money from home since Rainbow Dash was really eager to get some cider.”

“True, but at least she’s enjoying it now.” I pointed out.

“And it was worth it!” Rainbow exclaimed, patting both of us on the back. “Thanks Fluttershy! You’re a lifesaver! It was our lucky day to bump into that guy! In fact, I think I take it back from all those comments I said behind his back!”

“Really? Since when?” Kodi questioned.

“Since he electrocuted Ren, duh!” Rainbow rolled her eyes while I face-palmed and said “Rainbow Dash, will you please drop it? It’s all over and yet.”

“Whatever, I still don’t trust that bastard.” Jack rolled his eyes before taking a drink of the cider. He formed a grin and said “Huh…not half bad. Doesn’t taste like the ones back home, but it’ll do.”

“Whatever…” Mason shrugged before noticing ponies behind us. “And it looks like more ponies are coming over to join in as well.”

“Seems so.” I shrugged, noticing the ponies behind us as well. “Do you think we should move out of the way since we already gotten our cider?”

“No way! We need more!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“But we already have some apple cider, Rainbow Dash.” Carrie stated.

“True, but I need more of that stuff! It taste so good that I can’t get the apple flavor out of my mouth!” Rainbow sucked her lips a bit before forming a determined smile on her face. “So I gotta need that drink!”

“Fine…we’ll take our leave then.” Mason said as he began walking towards the front line.

“Wait! Don’t you wanna some apple cider, Mason?” I called.

“Maybe later. I just wanna head over to Sweet Apple Acres to go and check out to see if the Apple Family needs my help.” Mason explained. “Besides, I work for them, so that makes them my bosses.”

“Oh right…” I rubbed my head bashfully with a sheepish grin. “Well good luck dude.”

“Thanks Ren…and watch over my sister, will ya?” I nodded, promising to watch over his sister as he began walking towards Sweet Apple Acres. Well actually, now that I think about it, he has some work to do now. I mean, what with this Cider season underway, it’s understandable that he needs to help them out. 

“Bye bye big brother!” Carrie waved goodbye to him as he disappeared the moment the line began getting shorter with more and more ponies coming around with mugs in their hooves. Sounds to me they’re having a swell time.

“Ren!” Huh? We looked over to see Twilight, Rarity, Spike, Jamie, Kaede, and Rosy coming over with happy and relieved looks on their faces. Heck, even Owlicious was with them as he rested on top of Jamie's head. “Y-you’re awake! Thank goodness!” Kaede exclaimed in joy.

“I-is that really you?” Jamie asked in surprise.

“My, oh my, we’ve been wondering when you’ll wake up!” Rarity exclaimed in joy.

“I’m so glad to see you awake Ren! And just in time for Cider season as well.” Twilight smiled.

“Ahh, thanks you guys.” I chuckled happily before rubbing my cheek in embarrassment. “Sorry if I frighten you all back then.”

“It’s fine Ren! We’re just glad to see you good as new!” Kaede smiled.

“Y-yeah…but…umm…” Jamie slowly pointed over to Jack, who gave out a grunt and said “What are you looking at, shrimp?”

“N-nothing!” Jamie squealed in fear.

"Hoo!" Owlicious leered at the biker, who leered back at him.

“Don’t worry you guys, we forgave each other already. Besides, we’re friends now.” I assured, causing Jack to roll his eyes.

“Whatever…” Jack scoffed.

“So anyway, we saw Mason walking into Sweet Apple Acres.” Twilight explained. “I heard him tell Applejack that he’ll be able to help out pick more and more apples for them.”

“Well can’t blame him, right?” I chuckled. “He’s really good at his job so far.”

“Yeah! Big brother will totally help the Applejack and her family with the apple cider.” Carrie agreed. “I mean, they sell these every year anyway, right?

“Yeah! Who knew the Apple family can make such good apple cider, eh?” Spike chuckled before taking a drink of the mug. 

“Oh, so you guys just got your ciders, huh?” Kodi questioned.

“Yes, and while I had doubts about it due to the certain chemicals back in our world where they put drugs and such into an apple cider, officially making it illegal to drink unless you’re over 20 years old, but here…the drink taste fine. It was just filled with apples, nonetheless.” Jamie explained, writing some stuff down in his journal.

“Well it’s called ‘Apple cider’ for a reason.” Rainbow rolled her eyes. 

“Well, it’s too bad you guys won’t be able to get enough soon.” Spike shrugged.

“Why’s that?” I asked curiously.

“You haven’t heard yet?” Twilight asked. “Apparently, The Apple family discovered that the barrel they’re using today is half-empty. Someone apparently stole some of its cider.” 

What?! Somebody stole some of the contents? Wait, so does that mean that Rantaro…stole it?

“So somepony grabbed half of the drinks?” Carrie asked curiously.

“Well yes Carrie, but the strangest part is that Applejack told us that somepony left several weird things on the table. Jamie stated that those were dollar bills apparently.” Rarity explained. So I guess I was right then…but Rantaro paid for it? Well even if we barely knew each other by now, that…was nice of him to do so. But I don’t think using our world’s currency is able to pay for several mugs of apple cider. Boy, he sure is gonna get it now.

“It’s fine. Besides, I managed to get some cider already.” Rainbow grinned, confusing them.

“What in Equestria are you talking about Rainbow Dash?” Rarity questioned. “You are almost to the front of the line.”

We are? I looked past them and saw that we almost ended up at the start of the line. Huh…weird. Guess all this talking made time go so fast.

“Oh, we got some cider from that other human guy. You know, the one with the hat.” Kodi explained, shocking them.

“What?! You got some cider from him?!” Kaede exclaimed.

“But how?!” Twilight demanded.

“Apparently, he said that he made a good deal with Applejack and gotten them before he pay it for them.” I explained before saying “Oh yeah! I managed to get his name. He said his name is Rantaro Wilde.”

“Rantaro Wilde?” Rarity questioned.

“That’s what he said. My big brother and Jack said that they know him from somewhere.” Carrie explained.

“Wait…I think I heard it from somewhere…” Jamie muttered loudly. “I know for sure…”

“So you have heard of him, Jamie?” Twilight asked curiously, surprising him a bit.

“O-oh yes! I know for sure. I just need look over my notes.” Jamie said with a meek smile before frowning and said “Sorry if I don’t know.”

“It’s okay. I don’t blame you. You just didn’t know. I mean, I don’t know everything about Equestria, not even about your kind.” Twilight retorted, causing Jamie to blush a bit.

“R-right…sorry!” Jamie smiled.

“So how did you all get his name, darlings?” Rarity questioned.

“He said he’ll tell us if we pay him.” Fluttershy explained. “Although, his price wasn’t…good.”

“Really? Like how much? 20 bits or something?” Spike asked, taking another sip of his apple cider.

“No, it was more like 1,000,000 bits.” Spike widened his eyes before shooting out the contents of the mug in front of Twilight and Jamie, who gave him angry glares.

“What?! 1,000,000?! That’s a lot of bits!” Spike exclaimed in shock.

“And it’s quite impossible for any of us to give him that much money.” Twilight agreed, drying herself off. “I mean, who makes an offer like that?”

“Yeah…” Jamie nodded in agreement, thinking about it as well.

“You didn’t pay for that, right?” Kaede asked.

“Meow?” Rosy was curious about that too as she tilted her head in confusion while sitting on Kaede’s right shoulder.

“Nah, Ren managed to blackmail him for the incident last week that caused him to be knock out for a whole week.” Kodi explained, causing the girls and Jamie to look at me with shock. I rubbed my head bashfully and replied “Well I had to do something, ya know. Besides, Flutters pay for the mugs since I didn’t bring mine.”

“Well at least you gotten his name.” Spike shrugged.

“But although, I do not appreciate this man’s actions.” Rarity scoffed. “I mean, he shocked Ren with that weird gun thing in his hands! Then ran out and hid somewhere in Ponyville for a whole week! Isn’t that awfully suspicious to any of you?”

“I agree Rarity. It is weird. It’s best if we keep an eye out for him. Who knows what sort of tricks he might pull.” Twilight said in a serious tone.

“It’s okay you guys. He apologized to me about it.” I assured. “And I forgave him.”

“Are you sure about that Ren?” Kaede asked. “I mean, you know that he could’ve nearly killed you.”

“I know, and it wasn’t his intention at all. So it’s best if we don’t act like that to him. Sure, he may looks suspicious, but give him a chance, will ya?” I pleaded, which made them looked at each other in concern about that.

“Please everypony, Ren is right.” Fluttershy stepped in with a soft smile. “We forgave him just before you girls came and Mason left to help out Applejack and her family. So don’t you think you all should forgive him too?”

“W-well…” Rarity glanced away nervously, realizing that she had a point.

“I suppose you’re right Fluttershy.” Twilight softly smiled at her. “After all, we all need to forgive and trust him now. Surely he’ll treat us nicely if we return the favor, right?”

“Well I see why not.” Kaede smiled.

“Y-yeah…I am curious to know so much about him.” Jamie nodded, forming a soft grin.

“Thanks everypony.” Fluttershy smiled, blushing a bit as she stroked her mane a bit. I couldn’t help but smile happily that she would back me up on that. I really appreciate that. But you know, we barely knew about him and Jack, but I know they can be trusted. If only if Rantaro wasn’t so suspicious looking, then maybe the gang wouldn’t be able to have doubts about himself. 

“Look, can we just stop talking about him already?” Jack demanded. “It’s getting me a serious headache just thinking about him.”

“Yeah! Let’s just stop talking about that Rantaro guy and move on to buy some lovely cider!” Rainbow agreed.

“Next!” Huh? Already? We looked over to see that we were next in line, seeing Applejack, Apple Bloom, Big Mac, and Granny Smith operating the barrel filled with apple cider. I wasn’t expected us to be next so soon. Oh well, guess we’re finally gonna get another taste of that sweet sweet apple cider.

“Yes!” Rainbow grinned before rushing over and put her head underneath the apple cider machine, waiting for it to begin.

“Rainbow Dash, what are you doing?” Kaede asked.

“What does it look like? I’m about to get some cider! Now start it!” Rainbow demanded.

“You got it, Dash!” Apple Bloom nodded as she switch the faucet on, only for nothing to pop out as a drip of cider only dropped into Rainbow Dash’s mouth. “Uh oh. That’s the last of it.”

“W-what?” Rainbow raised her head out of the table with a look of shock and misery before it formed into an angry look. “Oh you’re all out again! Surprise surprise! And every single time I’m up, you just so happen to run out!”

With that, the crowd began complaining too upon hearing Rainbow Dash’s complaint. 

“Uh oh…” I muttered.

“I’m sorry everypony! But don’t worry!” Applejack assured. “Tomorrow, we’ll have some more ready to sell!”

“Is there gonna be enough for everypony, or are you just going to run out like today?!” Rainbow complained. 

“Everyone, calm down!” Everyone was silenced as Mason walked stepped out of the gates of Sweet Apple Acres with a serious look on his face. “The Apple family will and I promise that they will get everything ready tomorrow. Besides, apparently the barrel today was somehow half-empty, so we’ll prepare another batch of a filled up barrel of apple cider for ya.”

“So looks like Mason got the scoop about that, huh?” Kodi wondered aloud.

“So wait, does he work at a farm?” Jack questioned. “Doesn’t look like a farmer to me.”

“Nope! My big brother is a personal bodyguard to Elena. My foster sister.” Carrie explained, confusing Jack.

“It’s true. See, she and Mason are royalty.” I explained, shocking Jack.

“W-what?! Are you serious?!” Jack exclaimed.

“Well more like we got adopted, but I prefer being a normal girl.” Carrie chuckled with a bright smile while Jack rubbed his head bashfully and commented “Huh, that explains a lot. That dude is quite powerful. We might not have gone to a fist-fight, but I can almost feel it…in my gut.”

“In your gut?” Twilight questioned.

“Shut up! It’s a thing I have back in my bike gang. So sue me! I don’t give a crap!” Jack growled. 

“Well it certainly sounds quite weird to our terms.” Rarity rolled her eyes.

“I didn’t need ya opinion, ya loon.” Jack grunted, ignoring the glare coming from Rarity.

“Ahem!” We turned back to Mason, who was clearing his throat to gain our attention. “Anyway, you all need to understand that we are trying our best to get business booming, alright?”

“Mason’s right.” Applejack agreed, stepping up. “Look, I understand you all are upset, but right now, we need to think about quality over quantity. Our cider’s made from the freshest, high quality apples on our farm. Our recipe takes time, love, and integrity. We’ve been trying to supply more for ya-”

“Which you don’t!” Rainbow yelled.

“Rainbow Dash, please settle down.” Mason said with a stern glare. “We need to take time and prepare them. If we sold them too soon with rotten apples, then it’ll make the drinks taste bad. If that happens, think about what might happened if ponies all over heard about how apple ciders taste so bad here in Sweet Apple Acres?”

“Oh who cares?! I just want my-”

“WILL YOU SHUT UP AND JUST LISTEN TO HIM?!” We all covered our ears upon hearing Jack’s loud shout. He let out a huff and said “Just hurry up and listen what they say…”

“T-thanks…” Applejack said, blinking in surprise.

“I really appreciated your help, Jack.” Mason softly grinned at him, who glanced away as he crossed his arms in a huff.

“I just did that because they were annoying me with all this arguing. It seemed pointless, alright?” Jack muttered.

“Well either way…thank you.” Mason smirked before giving Rainbow Dash a stern look. “You need to think about it Rainbow Dash. They need to make the apple cider very good and well. If ponies tasted it and found out how bad it was, then ponies wouldn’t want to come here, forcing the business to be shut down. Do you want THAT to happen Rainbow Dash? And besides, didn’t you already had a mug from Rantaro?”

“W-well…umm…” Rainbow glanced away nervously, sinking in Mason’s words.

“Hold on? Rantaro? Who the hay are ya talking about?” Applejack asked.

“He’s talking about that guy in the fedora!” I called, shocking Applejack.

“What?! So it was him that stole half of the apple cider juice! Why that-”

“It’s alright Applejack, I’ll be sure to find him this time and make sure he gets his punishment.” Mason assured. “And besides, Fluttershy pay for those mugs and so we gotten them, even Rainbow Dash tasted it. So I don’t think she has room to argue at all.”

Applejack looked at Fluttershy with a surprised look, who immediately sink and hid behind me before glaring at Rainbow Dash, who was whistling innocently.

“Well…seems like she has no room to argue at all.” Applejack said sternly.

“Indeed.” Mason nodded.

“Wow, Mason really chewed Rainbow Dash up.” Kaede blinked in surprise.

“That’s my big brother!” Carrie giggled.

“Why yes. He is quite the talker.” Rarity agreed. 

“So now that’s out of the way, now what?” Kodi asked me.

“I don’t know, but I guess we’ll just have to come back tomorrow for it.” I shrugged. “Besides, I am more curious to drink more of that delicious apple cider.”

“Well…I-I wouldn’t mind to try it again as well.” Jamie agreed, feeling more interested in it. “I mean, I am curious to learn more of the substance of the apple cider sold here in Sweet Apple Acres.”

“What? You some nerd or whatnot?” Jack questioned, causing Jamie to flinch in fear as he shivered in fear and replied “W-well…I am quite curious to know that’s a-all, Mr. Yamaki.”

“Stop with the formal crap. Just call me Jack.” Jack sighed. “And stop shivering in fear.”

“What do you expect? You did knee’d him in the belly.” Kodi pointed out.

“And threatened him.” Twilight added, causing Jack to grit his teeth in anger. Before he could shout at us, we heard something coming our way, blasting through the crowd and stopping in front of us all.

“What the?” I asked myself. What the hay is that? Suddenly, two ponies were seen on top of the machine with smirks on their faces. They looked very identical, but the only difference was that their cutie-marks were different and one of them had a mustache. They nearly looked like those advertisers you would see in the 1980s or something.

Soon, the machine they were on started playing some music as it began spinning around like an amusement park ride, surprising us all a bit.

“What in the world?” Kaede thought aloud with a surprised look.

(Flim)

Well, lookie what we got here, brother of mine, it's the same in every town
Ponies with thirsty throats, dry tongues, and not a drop of cider to be found
Maybe they're not aware that there's really no need for this teary despair

(Flam)
That the key that they need to solve this sad cider shortage you and I will share

The crowd began to grow excited at the prospect of getting cider, but the Apple family and Mason seemed a bit wary of these two unicorn brothers as they entertained everyone with their song.

(Flim)
Well you've got opportunity
In this very community

(Flam)
He's Flim

(Flim)
He's Flam

(Flim & Flam)
We're the world famous Flim Flam Brothers
Traveling salesponies nonpareil

“Non-what?” Kodi raised a brow with a bewildered look.

“The hell is this crap?” Jack wondered.

“I don’t know…” Jamie replied, raising a brow as he began to feel wary of them.

“Umm…what does nonpareil mean?” Carrie thought aloud. The two brothers looked over at her, not even surprised by her nor our appearance.

(Flim & Flam)
Nonpareil, and that’s exactly the reason why, you see.
No pony else in this whole place will you such a chance to be where you need to be.

Flim picked up Apple Bloom and Carrie by the foreleg and gave them a peck on the forehead.

And that’s a new world, with tons of cider.
Fresh squeezed and ready for drinking.

(Flam)
More cider than you could drink in all your days of thinking

“I doubt that.” Rainbow said bluntly.

“Same here as well.” Mason added, looking at them with a suspicious and skeptical look.

(Flim and Flam)
So take this opportunity

(Flim, Flam, and Crowd)
In this very community

(Flam)
He's Flim

(Flim)
He's Flam

(Flim and Flam)
We're the world famous Flim Flam Brothers
Traveling salesponies

(Flim, Flam, and Crowd)
Nonpareil

(Flim)
I suppose by now you're wondering 'bout our peculiar mode of transport

(Flam)
I say, our mode of locomotion

(Flim)
And I suppose by now you're wondering, where is this promised cider?

(Flam)
Any horse can make a claim and any pony can do the same

(Flim)

But my brother and I have something most unique and superb
Unseen at any time in this big new world

(Flim and Flam)
And that's opportunity

(Flim)
Folks, it's the one and only, the biggest and the best

(Flam)
The unbelievable

(Flim)

Unimpeachable

(Flam)
Indispensable

(Flim)
I-can't-believe-able

(Flim and Flam)
Flim Flam Brothers' Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000

We all gaze at the machine, seeing how huge and amazing it looked by structure. But…can this thing really make as much cider as they say? 

“That can’t be true…” I looked over at Jamie, who stared at the machine with a suspicious look. So I guess only he and Mason are suspicious by their arrival and their little machine. I mean, Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000? That’s such a mouthful. I mean, try saying that five times fast? I prefer calling it…the SSCS 6000. Seems pretty short.

“What do you say, brother?” Flim asked, standing next to his nearly identical twin brother.

(Crowd)

Oh, we got opportunity
In this very community
Please, Flim, please, Flam, help us out of this jam
With your Flim Flam Brothers' Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000

“Pardon me, miss.” Flim turned over to Applejack with a grin. “It would be a great honor if my brother and I could borrow some of your delicious, and sellbindingly fragrant apples to demonstrate what our beautiful machine can do?”

“Uhh, sure, I guess…” Applejack replied, feeling unsure about them. You know, I’m…starting to have doubts about them as well.

Opportunity, in our community

(Flam)
Ready, Flim?

(Flim)
Ready, Flam?

(Flim and Flam)
Let’s bing bang zam!

Both brothers charged their horns, glowing in a green aura as they both shot a beam together and into their cider making machine, powering it up as it began to whir to life.

And show these thirsty ponies a world of delectable cider!

“Cider! Cider! Cider!” The crowd repeated as they watching the machine did its work, even Rainbow and Kodi were curious to see it go on. Soon, the machine started moving by itself and hovered over one of the apples trees in the orchard, sucking up all the apples from the branches and into the tube leading into the SSCS 6000.

Watch closely, friends!“ Flim shouted.

(Flam)
The fun begins

“Now, this is where all the magic happens, folks!” Flim shouted before he began his explanation about how it works. “Inside of the heaving, rolling, cider-press-boiling-guts of our machine, the apples that have been plucked fresh from the trees, as we speak, are being turned into Grade-A, top-notch, five-star, blow-your-”

“We get it! We’ll just watch it for god’s sake!” Jake shouted, interrupting Flim, who gave a huff towards the big guy.

Soon, all of us crowded around to get a better look at the machine doing its job, sorting out all the good apples from the bad with the blinking green and red lights.

(Granny Smith)
Now wait a second, hold it!
You two just over-sold it!
I guarantee that what you have just won't compare
Cause the very most important ingredient
Can't be added or done expedient
And that's quality, friends, Apple-Acres quality and care!

(Flim)
Well, ma’am, I’m glad you brought that up, my friend, I say I’m glad you brought that up! 
You see that we are very picky when it comes to cider if you’ll kindly try a cup!


Flim held a mug in his hands, wondering which one would accept it until Jack swiped it away from him.

"Oh please, like this mechanical do-hickey can make some good cider." Jack scoffed before taking a gulp of it, and just three seconds, his eyes widened in shock before shouting "NGHAARRR!"

"What? What is it?" I asked in worried.

"This...cider...is...so....goood!" Jack yelled, causing everypony to gasp happily and began cheering in excitement.

"I-it's...that good, huh?" Applejack asked in shock.


(Flam)
Yes sir, yes ma'am, this great machine lets just the very best.
So what do you say then, Apples?
Care to step into the modern world
And put the Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000 to the test?


The crowd began chanting 'Cider' over and over, seemingly getting those two brothers winning the crowd ver.

"So what do you say, folks?! Do you see what the Apples can't?" Flim asked. I looked over and saw how worried Applejack, Granny Smith, Mason and Big Mac were while Apple Bloom and Carrie were enjoying their little song.


(Flim and Flam)
We're saying you've got

(Flim, Flam, and Crowd)
Opportunity
In this very community
He's Flim, he's Flam
We're the world famous Flim Flam Brothers
Traveling salesponies nonpareil

(Flim and Flam)
Yeah!



"You got a deal!" Apple Bloom exclaimed with a happy smirk, much to our shock while the crowd were chattering happily about that.

"Not so fast!" Granny Smith exclaimed, pulling Apple Bloom away from them. "No way no how that machine matches up with the care we put in our cider!" 

"I agree with Granny Smith." Mason agreed, giving the twin unicorn brothers a stern glare. "What makes you guys think this machine can produce quality over quantity?"

"Trust us, young human, this machine is a great machine that'll surely make your business boom!" Flim assured, wrapping his foreleg around Mason's shoulder, who still gave him a stern look.

"So I take it you knew what our kind is, right?" Mason asked, raising a brow.

"Course we do! Everypony in Equestria knows about your kind! It's quite remarkable, isn't it Flim?" Flam asked his brother, who nodded and replied "Sure is Flam! Seeing a new species in our planet is quite beautiful."

"Stop talking." Mason said sternly.

"But big brother, if it really does work, we could make everypony in town happy!" Carrie exclaimed.

"Yeah! Then we won't have to deal with another angry customer!" Apple Bloom added.

"I just don't know, you all. We've always made cider the same way." Applejack said, feeling doubtful about it.

"Eeyup!" Big Mac nodded.

"Don't worry. We'll sweeten the deal." Flim assured. "You supply the apples..."

"And we'll supply the Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000." Flam finished.

"Then we split those sweet sweet profits..." Flim and Flam said in unison.

"That might sound like a good deal." Carrie smiled.

"Yep! It's just a 75%-25% profit." Flim stated.

"Deal-"

"Hold on!" Applejack stopped her sister from saying anything before looking at them with a suspicious gaze. "Who gets the seventy five?"

"Why us, naturally." Flim stated, causing the Apple family to gasp in shock. 

"And we'll throw in the magic to power the machine for free." Flam added.

"You both are crossing the line, you know that?" Mason asked sternly.

"Y-yeah..." Jamie stepped in with a stern look. "In order for the Partnership to start, both companies needs to work together and have the equal amount of work, or else both companies will fall down. It's economics basics..."

"Right..." Applejack nodded before looking at the two brothers with a serious look and said "Cider sales keep our business afloat through the winter. We'd lost Sweet Apple Acres if we agreed to this."

"So? What'll it be?" Flim and Flam asked in unison.

"Obviously no deal!" I exclaimed, stepping up for Mason, Carrie, and the Apple family. "Why should they agreed with all this?! You two are just robbing of their whole jobs! If you lose Sweet Apple Acres, where could they go and think about what might happened? Then no one will ever buy good apples than here."

"Ren..." Mason put his hand on my shoulder with a soft smile and said "Thank you."

"We really appreciate the help Ren." Applejack smiled at me before glaring at the twin brothers. "Sorry, but like my friend here said is right. No deal."

"Hmph." Flim scoffed. "Very well. If you refuse our generous offer to be partners, then we'll just have to be competitors."

"C-competitors?" Jamie asked in surprise.

"This can't be happening, right?" Kodi wondered.

"You wouldn't dare." Applejack snarled.

"Oh no?" Flim asked in a mock gasp.

"Don't you worry, everypony! There'll be plenty of cider for all of you!" Flam shouted to the crowd, who let out a cheer. 

"Once we drive Sweet Apple Acres out of business." Wait what?! Those of us who were near them overheard what they muttered, causing us to gasp.

"You bastards!" Jack pushed me and Mason aside, with an angry look on his face. "What do ya mean you'll drive them out of business? You think this is some joke, huh?"

"Oh my good human sir, what ever do ya mean? We would never do that!" Flim assured with a grin. "After all...that's how business roll."

"You dirty bastards! I'll show ya who's boss!" Jack exclaimed angrily as he was about to pounce until they immediately switched a lever on, and made the SSCS 6000 to fly the coop. "W-what the heck?! Those little!"

"Jack, please calm down." Mason sighed. "I understand your anger, but it's not gonna solve anything. But then again, those two will pay for their actions."

"But still, they're gonna run Applejack's family business?" Kaede asked, feeling alarm of this. "That's so...cruel!"

"Yeah! They lived here, and the best apple sellers ever!" Kodi added, feeling furious at the Flim Flam brothers arrogance and such. You know, if I know one thing...those two aren't like the Mario Bros.

"I rather knock their crap out!" Jack growled.

"Yeah! How dare they not give me the cup of cider?!" We all gave Rainbow Dash unimpressive looks. "What?! I like apple cider! I need more, alright?!"

"...You are just a dumb pony, that's what." Jack commented dryly, ignoring the angry glare sent by Dash.

"But it's not fair! They can't run Sweet Apple Acres like that, right?" Carrie asked in worried.

"Yeah! It's even our home! Where we grew up..." Apple Bloom formed a sad look until Applejack and Big Mac comforted her as the former stated "Don't worry. There's no way those guys can do that. They don't even have apples to make Apple cider."

"That is quite true." Jamie nodded in agreement with a solemn look on his face. "Besides, I was studying their Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000 quite a bit and saw how it operate. Unfortunately, I never gotten much info about it except seeing the speed rate of it."

"Speed rate?" I questioned.

"I think Jamie means about how fast it goes. I saw a bit of their Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000 and it would seem that its control by the pull of a lever, judging by which position it goes." Twilight explained.

"Really? That seemed pretty easy to operate that machine to make cider." Kaede said, slightly surprised by that.

"So what now?" Carrie asked in concern. I noticed Mason held a determined look as he clenched his fists tight, much to my concern. I just hope that he doesn't take it personally. Besides, he just started out this job as a local Sweet Apple Acres apple farmer, and I bet he cares about them more than ever.

"We need to make sure that they won't beat us." Everyone else turned to Mason as he made a serious and determined look. "We can't let them overrun the Apple Families' business, right? Besides, after seeing their cocky and confident attitude of theirs, they don't care whether if the apple cider taste good or not. They only care about the money and their motivation for greed."

"Well...can't argue with that." Jack shrugged. 

"Yeah! What my big brother said! We can beat them!" Carrie said with a bright smile on her face. "I wanna help out as much as I can!"

"Me too! Me too!" Apple Bloom volunteered.

"Now that's the spirit, you little whippersnappers!" Granny Smith smiled. "Now come along! Let's go make another batch of apple cider!"

"Eeyup!" Big Mac nodded before walking towards the fields to prepare themselves to get some apples.

"I'll help too. My strength and speed can help out get more apples in no time." Mason smiled.

"That should be good." Applejack chuckled. "Thanks for the help, you two."

"No problem, Applejack." Mason smiled. "Besides, I just can't let them kick you all out of your home. It's just not right, and I can't imagined what might happened if they do so. But they're arrogant, so I have a feeling they'll get what's coming to them."

"And besides, stealing one's product is quite illegal." Jamie added. "And it doesn't seem they don't care about quality over quantity."

"Heh, guess you got some brains in there after all." Jack grinned, causing Jamie to glance away nervously.

"T-thank you J-Jack..." Jamie chuckled nervously.

"Well I guess we'll take our leave then." I sighed. "We'll come back later."

"I see why not. It shouldn't take long." Applejack smiled. "Normally it takes a day, but with these extra hooves..." Applejack smirked at Mason and Carrie before saying "I say we might get it done in an hour or so."

"Well in the meantime, why not we head over to the home-ship?" Kaede suggested. "I  mean, they're new rooms that just opened up Ren!"

"Really?" I asked in surprise. "I'm quite excited to find out what it is!"

"Trust me, you're gonna love them!" Kaede smiled excitedly.

"I never really explored the new areas. I stayed behind with you back at Fluttershy's cottage because I didn't feel like exploring without ya." Kodi said, lowering his ears a bit. I petted him on the head, cheering him up a bit.

"Don't be fret, Kodi." I assured. "I mean, you were worried about me after all. It was quite nice of ya to do that for me."

"Heh heh, thanks Ren." Kodi smiled, nuzzling my leg a bit. Fluttershy softly smiled over us, seeing the bond between us quite strong.

"I guess you two are quite close." Jack smirked before we noticed a little bump up on his shirt. "But not as close as me and Jo Jo."

"Jo Jo?" I questioned as the little bump around his shirt started moving and it revealed to be a brown chubby guinea pig. So that's Jo Jo, that's quite cute. "Whoa, a guinea pig?!"

"Ahh!" Fluttershy cooed, flying a bit close to Jack's face. "He's so cute and chubby! You two must be so close to each other! I mean, he must really love you, huh?

"Course he is! Had him since two years and he's quite the coolest." Jack made a tooth-eating grin at me, boasting about his bond between him and Jo Jo. Jo Jo, on the other hand, looked over and let out a squeal upon seeing Kodi before hiding in Jack's coat pocket. 

You know, I'm surprised that a biker like him owns a guinea pig. I guess not every biker can have a cool pet, but his's is pretty cool...in his own standards, that is.

"Well I say that you got a cute pet." Fluttershy smiled brightly, causing Jack to look away, feeling embarrassed about that.

"I prefer 'cool' over 'cute', pony." Jack scoffed, causing Fluttershy to smile nervously at him before landing next too me. "Besides, he and I are the best of friends!"

"I see, but anyway, why not we head over back to the home-ship? We can talk a lot back there and get to know each other more." I smiled.

"Whatever. I'm starving anyway." Jack snorted.

"Well either way, let's go." Kaede offered.

"I would like to join in and see the place again with you guys." Fluttershy offered. "If ya want me to, that is..."

"Course you can come! Do you even have to ask?" I chuckled with a small blush while Fluttershy smiled over me.

"Thanks Ren." Fluttershy giggled before kissing me in the cheek, causing me to chuckle more. Jack made a sly smirk on his face while the others grinned or shook their heads in amusement.

"I suppose things will never change between those two." Mason commented. "Well, I suppose I gotta get back to work."

"And I'll help too! To teach that two meanies a lesson!" Carrie added, feeling pumped up apparently before she and her brother began leaving inside of the farm.

"W-well...I would like to come too. Just so I could research more about the place and explain them all for ya, R-Ren." Jamie softly grinned.

"Thanks you guys." I chuckled with a smile.

"We'll stay here and watched over things." Twilight suggested.

"And maybe buy a few cider for the taking?" Spike smirked before flinching from the look Twilight was giving him.

"Sorry, but I'm afraid that only one pony can have one drink." Mason said sternly, shocking Spike. "I'm sorry Spike, but if we're gonna save some cider for those who couldn't buy it, I'm afraid that it'll have to do."

"Ahh...okay, I understand." Spike sighed.

"Don't worry dragon dude. I'll make ya some apple cider." Jack grinned before we heard his stomach rumbling. "Right after lunch."

"Well I just hope for my sake that he doesn't make any apple cider." Kaede whispered to Rosy, who nodded in agreement upon hearing our conversation.

"Well we already explored the new floors while Ren was unconscious, so I see no point." Rarity thought aloud.

"Whatever! I just want my cider so I'm staying put!" Rainbow exclaimed before widening her eyes. "But first! I need to use the mares' room!"

With that, she blasted off, leaving a rainbow trail behind, which impressed Jack.

"Dang, she sure knows how to be speedy." Jack whistled.

"Yeah, and you haven't seen anything yet." I chuckled. 

"Well we'll see you guys later, and Ren..." Applejack turned to me with a soft smile. "I'm glad that you're awake. Sorry for not mentioning it. Also, keep an eye out for the big guy. I can already sense some trouble from him since last week."

"Hey!" Jake yelled, highly offended by that.

"Nah, it's alright and I'll make sure of that." I waved it off before turning to Kaede, Kodi, Jamie, Rosy, and Jack. "So come on you too! Let's go!"

"Hoo!" Owlicious said.

"You know Owlicious, we're going to the home-ship to see new areas to explore." I reminded him, only to get another hoot from him. "Riiight...see ya you all."

"See ya Ren! Come back later for some sweet Apple Cider!" Apple Bloom waved goodbye to me as we made our way back to the home-ship for some exploring to do. I wonder what kind of rooms do they have now? Well it's obvious it's gonna be...



Later
"A POOL?!" I don't frigging believe it! We have a pool in the lower levels of the home-ship?! Awesome sauce! As soon as we arrived back, we took the elevator as Jamie hit a new button as it descended down to the lower levels of the place. Well it's the only floor we got here anyway. Anyway, it lead us to a small place that had two doors, the blue door was for the boys while the pink was for the girls, but no matter which one you took, it led us to this place! A pool! I'm surprised that we have one.

"I know right? I was surprised to see one here as well." Fluttershy agreed, smiling over my reaction.

"So cool! I always wanted to swim in one!" Kodi barked happily, almost eager to jump into it. Rosy, on the other hand, hid behind Kaede's hair, feeling scared of going into the pool since cats hate water.

"It's alright Rosy, you're not gonna be in it." Kaede cooed, softening her fur a bit.

"Heh heh! I was surprised to see it too!" Jack grinned, scratching his butt a little. "I can almost be ready to jump and have fun in it!"

"M-maybe some other time?" Jamie suggested. "We pretty much have a tight schedule."

"Says who exactly?" Jack leered, causing Jamie to flinch from his glare.

"N-no one!"

"That's more like it." Jack smirked, causing me to frown a bit. Can he at least be a lot nicer to him? If we're gonna be friends, he should respect them. Anyway, I began walking around the pool area, seeing that it's five feet and it gotten steps in the pools for anyone wanting to come out. Heck, it's even got a lifeguard chair in here. I mean, who can even be a lifeguard?...Hmm, probably Mason. He's the most responsible out of all of us.

"You know, we were planning on going into the pool, but we decided to hold it off." Kaede stated. "It wouldn't feel the same without ya."

"Ahh, thanks you guys." I rubbed my head bashfully, feeling happy that they would wait for me to wake up. "But you know, this pool is really great. Whoever made this...I give them five stars!"

"You don't have to rub it on our kidnapper." Jack growled, causing me to grin sheepishly. Well I wouldn't exactly call the people who made this ship our 'kidnapper'. Though, I wonder if it the person who designed this really is our kidnapper? 

"You know, it's quite weird on how all this water came into this ship and how do you clean it out?" Fluttershy wondered.

"Well there must be a water tank system that cleans up the pool automatically. It must be hidden somewhere in the home-ship, that's my best bet..." Jamie muttered aloud.

"Yeah yeah, we get it." Jack rolled his eyes, surprising Jamie.

"Not again!" Jamie exclaimed.

"Anyway, let's move on!" Kaede suggested, feeling like we've already explored the place now.

"Oh! Ren, there's a new place that you're gonna enjoy." Fluttershy smiled.

"Really? Why's that?" I asked curiously.

"Just follow us and you'll see." With that, we exited out of the pool and back into the locker room, and into the elevator as Kaede hit one of the accessible buttons, allowing us to move upwards to the top floors, which was above of Jamie's library/room, and once we stopped, the elevator doors opened, revealing a big garage-like area, but the place had some grass growing around. But the best part was that there was motorcycles in here, but it looks like they don't function.

"Jeez, how long did all this been here?" I questioned aloud.

"We were wondering about that, but none of us figured that out." Kaede shrugged. 

"This ship has be quite old, improving my earliest theory..." Jamie muttered. Is he talking about that photo Mason brought to us? I'm still confused by that besides seeing a younger Granny Smith and her family discovering Ponyville. I still don't believe that the home-ship could've been here more longer than we thought. I mean, I'm sure there's a good explanation on that, right?

"Heh heh! This here is where we can fix any engines. A perfect place for me to fix up my bike and ride some of these cool bikes." Jack grinned. "And oh yeah, there's a door that lead us to my room....well, the room I'll be staying here till we get back to our world." Jack pointed over to the white door at the far left, which we headed over as I grabbed onto the doorknob and twisted it open, revealing to be a messy room, what with a bunch of bottles on the ground, along with clothes and such on it. There was a small plasma HD TV in here, and a couch-like bed in here with a big blanket that probably fit Jack.

"So this is your room?" I asked.

"Ugh! It looks disgusting." Kodi commented, which Jack ignored as he kick some bottles away as Kodi continued "Did this place looks like this when you all found it?"

"No, it was actually clean, but when Jack moved in, he...redecorated the room." Kaede rubbed her head bashfully with a nervous grin and sweat-drop.

"Dang straight! It's just like home!" Jack smiled before lying down on his couch, letting out his bulging gut out. "Ahh...I'll give our kidnapper credit, he sure knows how to give us the luxury life."

"Seems so." Jamie agreed, glancing away nervously. "But are you really sure that the person who made this is our kidnapper? I mean, I-I understand about waking in those pods and such, but still...!"

"Hey! I say what I say and I know I'm right!" Jack yelled, frightening Jamie as he hid behind me, causing me to chuckle nervously before I looked at Jack and said "Come on Jack, can't you be nicer to him?"

"Whatever, not my fault he's a coward." Jack commented, causing Jamie to glance away sadly. Ooh, that's gotta leave a mark. "Anyway, not that we're done exploring his room before we headed over to another door that was next to Jack, just to the far right corner of the garage.

"Say, what door leads there?" I asked curiously.

"It lead us to a bedroom which we presumes to be Rantaro." Kaede answered.

"His room looked so neat and nice. I guess he likes to be neat and tidy." Fluttershy said with a smile before we entered the place, seeing a loft bed to our right. On the top was a comfortable mattress made for two people to sleep on while on the bottom showed a couch, along with a carpet, beanbag, and a fridge. To our left side of the room was a Comcast HD TV attached to the wall. In the middle of the room was a dining table that it looks like he can enjoy eating his food in privacy while a large window was showed above the dining table, seeing how high we were up from the floor.

"This room is quite neat. I'll give him that." I commented.

"I know right? It looks quite nice from when I first saw this room." Fluttershy softly grinned.

"Meh, I've seen better." Jack scoffed.

"Well we don't know much about Rantaro, but we do know that he loves keeping his rooms tidy." Jamie said, putting his hand on his chin in thought. "He must be pretty good at organizing things..."

"Yeah, at first, we didn't know whose room was that until we remembered about Rantaro." Kaede explained. "Seems like he must've been coming back here to the home-ship without ever showing his face to us."

"Yeah, I guess..." I shrugged. But you know, Mason, Jamie, and Jack seemed to know him from somewhere, but where exactly? The way how he sold those mugs of apple cider to us, it sounded like he was some advertiser, or maybe a franchisee? Nah, probably not.

"Anyway, there's one more floor that we hope you'll enjoy Ren." Fluttershy smiled happily. I looked at her in surprise before noticing the gang, except Kodiak, were grinning brightly. Me and Kodi looked at each other in confusion, wondering why they're smiling like that.



Later
"So Ren...what do you think?"

.....No....frigging...way! 

"No frigging way!" I exclaimed, panting excitedly and having an excited look on my face. Apparently, we headed back to the elevator and headed to the next floor, revealing to an arcade-like casino in here. No, it felt like one of those recreational rooms you see in clubs and such. But this place was awesome!


"Impressive, huh?" Fluttershy giggled at me and Kodi's reaction. "This place seems like it has many games in here."

"Yeah, possibly every game known to mankind." Jamie added, writing some stuff down in his notebook.

"This place has every single game in existence?!" Kodi gaped. "That's amazing!"

"And awesome at the same time!" I added. "I mean, look at this place! It's got Galaga! Sonic Dash Arcade Edition! Mario Kart 8 Arcade Edition! Pac-man! Street Fighters V! Super Smash Bros Ultimate! Sonic and All Stars Racing Transformed! Ms. Pac Man, Donkey Kong, one of those Crane machine games! Oh wow, they even got an arcade version of Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and one of the old Polybius machines. This place...is paradise! A gamer's paradise!"

I ran around the place with Kodi and Fluttershy by the side, seeing every arcade game in existence. I've been to many arcades for years, but never to this place! I can't wait to play every game here!"

"Jeez, what's up with him?" Jack questioned.

"Ren is...a gamer. An experienced and a pro at them apparently." Kaede answered, chuckling nervously.

"He seems to play any game he finds." Jamie added, deadpanned. "But he's quite excited about seeing this place, I'll give him that."

"Oh..." Jack sighed. "So he's a videogaming nerd? I see."

Who cares you guys say?! I want to play with them right now! I can't wait to enjoy this moment!

"It's even a got a bar that sells food and drinks by itself by whatever you typed on the keyboard." Kaede pointed over to my right and saw it was one of those bars you see adults go to and have a drink. However, this bar wasn't one of those types. I mean, sure it looks like them, but like Kaede stated, it sells food and drinks by anything you type on this futuristic keyboard.

"I was confused by it until it pulled out a lemonade ice tea for me." Fluttershy explained. "It tasted so sweet and nice."

"Really?" I smirked before rubbing my chin in thought. I got up on the chair, along with Kodiak as he sat next to me while I looked down at the futuristic-looking keyboard. Hmmm....I know! How about a chocolate milkshake!

I typed 'Chocolate Milkshake' onto it, and to my awe, it really did get what I wanted.

"Awesome!" I said in amazement before taking a slurp out of it. "Mmm! It really taste so good! How does it do that?"

"Even I was surprised by that too." Jamie said with a smile. "Apparently, me and Twilight deduce that their might be a machine inside the home-ship that can mass produce all these types of food automatically whenever you type it into that keyboard. Our time of era was quite far ahead in our world!"

"Well, that is surprising." I said with a shocked look. Hmm...if this stuff was made in our time of era? Then...why wasn't it showed to the public? It feels quite amazing to enjoy. Why not reveal to the people? I think many people would enjoy this!

"So this is all the rooms, right?" Kodi asked.

"Yeah, just the five rooms we showed you guys." Fluttershy nodded. "I'm quite amazed that this ship has so many things that me and the others never seen before."

"I know right? This is pretty epic, Flutters." I grinned before slurping onto my chocolate milkshake. "So what now? You guys wanna go and see if the others are selling apple cider by now?"

"I see why not. We've been here for a while, so I see why not." Jamie smiled. 

"Yeah, but first..." Jack got onto a seat and typed something, revealing to be french fries with a meatball sub. Wait...oh no.

"Umm...what's that?" Fluttershy asked curiously.

"It's a meatball sub, what do ya think?" Jack asked, looking at her with surprise, while she held a look of horror.

"M-meatball sub?" Fluttershy muttered in shock.

"Yeah...because we eat meat, ya know? What? You didn't know?" Jack asked, while the rest of us face-palmed at that. God dang it Jack!

"Flutters..." I turned to her with a worried look and said "Look, I understand that you're about to faint, but listen! I'm sorry for hiding this from you! It's true that we eat meat, but we also eat vegetables! Besides, we don't eat any animal! Some animals we protect! We swear!"

"B-but still...you guys eat meat?" Fluttershy asked, shivering in fear. "That's so...!"

"We know, revolting." Kaede sighed. "But like Ren stated, we don't eat any animal we see. Besides, there are others who have different types of diets."

"And it's not like we eat meat for enjoyment." Jamie added. "It's a way to survive since the beginning earth and its countries were found. I knew about this from a while ever since I noticed you ponies only eat hay and such, and I realize that it might be awkward to tell them what to eat, so...sorry."

"...A-Are you sure?" Fluttershy asked. "You guys...really mean it?"

"Course we do Flutters! Would I ever lie?" I asked with a small smile. Fluttershy looked at me for a while before sighing and said "Alright, you guys have a point. Sorry if I gotten you all frightened."

"Don't worry. Besides, humans don't eat ponies and horses at all." I assured.

"Really? What do you humans eat?" Fluttershy asked curiously. "W-well...I just hope it's not one of my animals."

I...highly doubt that. What with the chickens around your garden/backyard.

“Well it’s-” Before Jack could say anything, Jamie immediately waved his hands in high alert and exclaimed “It’s probably best not! We just don’t wanna frighten anypony upon learning that!”

“Well…it’s understandable. But…I was just scared you all might try to eat me.” Fluttershy muttered, feeling afraid.

“Uh oh, now we done it…” Kodi muttered, seeing how frightened Fluttershy was. I put down my milkshake and came over to her side, hugging her softly that soon made her relax.

“Sorry if we didn’t tell you Fluttershy. We were just worried that you and the others might become afraid of us to even talk or hang out with.” I said in a tone of sadness.

“I wasn’t.” We all glared at Jack dryly, who just shrugged and continued eating his meatball sub. 

“…Anyway, what I’m trying to say, we’re sorry.” I apologized, which made her smile softly at me.

“It’s okay Ren, but next time, please don’t hide anything else from us.” Fluttershy begged.

“No problem.” I nodded with a smile before realizing something. “Wait, you guys came here last week, right?”

“Right.” Kaede nodded.

“Why? What’s the problem?” Kodi questioned.

“Well if this thing was here, wouldn’t Twilight and the others noticed this about different types of food we eat here?” I questioned.

“Yeah, that’s what we fear. Jack nearly came here and tried ordering something until Mason got into another argument with him, making him completely forget about it until today, that is.” Jamie explained with a sigh. “It’s a miracle that he didn’t remember about it.”

“Shaddup!” Jack yelled, causing Jamie to flinch in fear. This is totally gonna be a thing now, eh? 

“Okay, I see. Just asking.” I shrugged. “Anyway, it’s best if we head out now. We already explored more bits around the place.”

“Yeah, but you gotta admit, some of these rooms are unique.” Kaede giggled before looking over the arcade casino room. “Even this room.”

“Yeah. I just hope it doesn’t affect my studies.” Jamie said, writing some more notes in his journal. “So are we done now?”

“Sure James, let’s go.” I nodded with a smile before we all began to leave the place while Jack had some smudges from the meatball sub on his face, which disturbed us all. This guy acts like a five year old at a restaurant. I guess all bikers like him can do whatever they want. “You know Jack, I never learned much about you.”

“Heh, so interested in me, are ya kid?” Jack grinned while crossing his arms. “In case you must know, I’m the heir to being the leader of the Yamaki Biker Gang. It’s known for being bikers in my family for generations to generations. I’m a member of it and my dad is the leader.”

“Really? I think I heard about the Yamaki gang.” Jamie said, overhearing our conversation. “They’re a band of misfits that zooms across the country. Many witnesses states that they see them drive through the highway, bridges, and across the countryside of Texas.”

“Dang straight.” Jack grinned, puffing his chest proudly. “My old man is known for being the greatest leader.”

“It sounds like a big responsibility to lead a big gang like your family, huh?” Fluttershy asked shyly.

“Who cares? I can handle it just fine.” Jack picked his ear a bit while his pet guinea pig, Jo Jo, came out of his shirt and rest on top of his hair. “Besides, who cares what people say about me? I’m the best there is!”

“What? His weight?” Kaede whispered, causing me to chuckle.

“The heck you say?!” Jack demanded, causing us to glance away from him while we whistled innocently. “Yeah, that’s what I thought.”

“Y-you know J-Jack…you don’t always have to be rude, right?” Jamie smirked.

“Shaddup.” Jack scoffed, causing Jamie to frown sadly.

“O-okay…sorry for asking then…” Jamie muttered.

“Wow, Jamie really looks depressed, huh Ren?” Kodi asked in concern, which I nodded in agreement. I feel bad for Jamie. Jack should probably apologize to him for being rude to him. Jamie is a nice and shy guy, and just tries his best to be brave. Although, with a big fat brute like Jack, it’s hard for him to stand up…some times.

Soon, we all entered back into the elevator and headed back down to the main room AKA, the living room. But as soon as we arrived, we saw a familiar fedora wearing man with an orange case phone in his hands.

“Ugh…no one calling. Guess my clients aren’t bothering to answer me like always….” Rantaro said aloud.

“What’s he doing?” Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion.

“And what’s that in his hands?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Oh, that’s a phone. An i-phone to be exact.” I answered. “It’s something our kind uses to either play games, read, look up stuff off the internet, and call anyone you know and used for emergencies.” 

“And it looks like an I-phone 7 to be exact. It was sold in September 7, 2016 worldwide by Apple.” Jamie added. “Hold on…since when did he have a phone?”

“Wait…I’m starting to realize something, why don’t we have our phones?” Kaede said, realizing about it.

“Well that’s what I thought too, but I couldn’t find it when I was getting used to Equestria.” I rubbed my head bashfully with a sheepish grin.

“Me too. I checked out my room, but nothing at all to find. My phone somehow v-vanished…” Jamie added with a worried look.

“Same here, I couldn’t find the dang thing at all.” Jack shrugged. 

That’s…really strange. So none of us couldn’t find our phones at all. So…why does Rantaro have a phone? This is quite weird. 

“Hey, if you guys wanna act like chimpanzees, go play outside.” Rantaro said. “I’m busy.’

”Hey Rantaro, surprised to see you here.“ I said as we walked over to him in the living room. ”What brings you back here?“

”Just picking up a call.“ He replied bluntly.

“From who exactly?” Jack questioned suspiciously.

“A call from no one of your business, fatty.” Rantaro answered, angering Jack.

“What?!” He exclaimed as he tried to punch him until me and Fluttershy stopped him.

“N-no wait! Jack! Calm down!” Fluttershy begged.

“Yeah! Just calm down man!” I added, not wanting him to pick a brawl with him at all. Jack soon calmed down and scoffed at him.

“Besides…” Rantaro glanced at us with a smug look on his face while he put his left hand in his pocket. “I can’t seem to be picking a call at all. Strange since most of everywhere has no signal, but this place is the only one that has the strongest signal out of all.”

“Really? Only here?” Kaede asked, tilting her head in surprise.

“Signal?” Fluttershy questioned.

“It’s an electric impulse or radio wave transmitted or received.” Jamie explained before turning to Rantaro and asked “But…why do you have a phone?”

“What do ya mean?” Rantaro asked, glancing at him with a curious look. “What? You never own a phone before?”

“W-well…no…it’s just…”

“What Jamie is trying to say that we all do own phones, but I guess we never realize that once we woke up from those pods, we completely realized now that our phones weren’t with us to call help.” I explained, helping Jamie out.

“Y-yes…that was what I was gonna say, but thank you Ren.” Jamie glanced away nervously while Rantaro looked at us with a suspicious look, but he kept his smirk.

“Really? Neither of you ever looked into your rooms and found your phones?” Rantaro questioned.

“No, we haven’t. Not even when we woke up.” I nodded as Rantaro glanced away from us, like he was in deep thought.

“Is there something wrong, Rantaro?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Nah. Nothing at all. But it looks like I’m the luckiest guy for finding my phone in my own room when I investigated this place on my own.” Rantaro smirked before putting his phone back in his pockets. “Guess you guys weren’t good enough to find them.”

“Hey!” Jack exclaimed angrily. 

I don’t know…Was he lucky enough to find his phone so easily? 

“So…I got bored today and came to rest up. Nothing much, really.” Rantaro shrugged. 

“But…I saw those twin brothers heading over to Sweet Apple Acres and they seemed really interested by one of those apple trees made by one of your friends.”

“Twin brothers…do you mean Flim and Flam?” Kodi asked in surprise

“Huh? Are you frigging serious?” Jack widened his eyes upon hearing that before gritting his teeth in anger. “Those two sniveling bastards!” 

“Flim and Flam? Those two?” I asked with a raised brow. “Over by Sweet Apple Acres?”

Well this can’t be good.

“Yeah, just thought I let you guys know. You don’t trust at all, do ya?” Rantaro asked with a smirk on his face. “Can’t blame ya. I saw those two just before I got home and when I learned about them by some witnesses, I realized those two can’t be trusted.”

“Gee, you think?” Jack scoffed.

“I really have to agree though.” Jamie nodded. “I mean, I know what Flim and Flam even stands for. It stands for trickery and Con-artistry, after all.”

“Seriously?!” Kodi gaped. “Well that’s also a new reason why we can’t trust them!”

“W-well…you do have a point.” Fluttershy couldn’t help but agreed with Jamie’s statement. “After all, they did say that they were gonna get Applejack’s business out of the way, and I don’t want Applejack and her family to lose their home. They grew up in that place and made so many memories.”

“Really, huh?” Jack asked in surprise.

“Yes, it would be awful that it would happen.” Fluttershy nodded.

“I have to agree on that as well, Flutters.” I nodded. “I mean, Applejack, Big Mac, Apple Bloom, and Granny Smith really love that place and made so many apple treats.” I glanced down with a sad look and muttered “We can’t let Flim and Flam take it down.”

“Same here, Ren.” Kodi nuzzled my hand, letting out a whimper.

“Well what are we waiting for?!” We all looked at Jack with surprised looks on our faces as he had a look of determination in his face. “We can’t let those thieving conniving bastards get the better of them, right?! If family’s that important, then we gotta protect family, don’t we?!”

“Jack…” I muttered, feeling impressed by how he’s willing to help now. It’s like he just 180 his personality. 

“What?! What are you idiots gonna do, huh?! We’re going now! Those bastards are gonna be picked off.” Jack cracked his knuckles before taking his leave out of the home-ship.

“W-wait for us!” Jamie called as he and Kaede followed after him.

“I guess we should get going, huh Ren?” Fluttershy wondered.

“It seems so. But we have to! For Applejack and her family!” I yelled in determination before realizing something. “Oh my…I’m starting to sound like Jack.”

“How ironic since you just met him.” Rantaro smirked. “Heh heh, so you’re going to help him, are you not?”

“Course I am! We’re friends after all!” Rantaro gave me a confused look before asking “Friends?”

“Yeah! We’re all friends! We gotta stick together if we wanna get back to earth.” I smiled happily.

“Yeah! Best friends forever!” Kodi barked happily.

“And we’re in this together. I want Ren and the others to head back home to their friends and families.” Fluttershy added. Rantaro looked at us for a moment before letting out a small smirk.

“Well…that’s surprising.” Rantaro said before he began walking away. “Well…I wish you good luck…friend.”

“Umm…thanks dude.” I smiled as he began leaving the living room. You know, suspicious looking he is, I say that he’s a good guy at heart. Though, I am still confused on why he has a phone while the rest of us don’t. It’s just…too weird.

“Anyway, should we get going Ren?” Kodi asked curiously.

“O-oh right! Come on you guys! Let’s go!” I exclaimed with a serious look before we left the home-ship and made our way towards Sweet Apple Acres to see what the Flim Flam brothers are up to! Hopefully, the Apple family can sort this mess out in no time with those guys, right?



Later
Phew, we finally made it. In the nick of time, no less. I managed to catch up with Jamie, Kaede, Rosy, Jack, Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash.

“Hey guys, did I miss anything?” I asked, trying my best to catch my breath.

“Well…not much to be exact. Just the Apple Family, Mason and Carrie arguing with the Flim Flam brothers.” Kaede explained. “And trust me, it’s not going okay.”

“Like how?” I asked. She pointed over to see Mason glaring angrily at the Flim Flam brothers as he yelled “Do you two even care about anything?! Is money and trickery the only things that entertain you both?!”

“It does, one hundred percent.” Flim nodded.

“Besides, do ya want to dissatisfied these ponies?” Flam asked, seeing the crowd so thirsty for it.

“God dang. This whole town really likes their cider.” Jack commented loudly.

“Tell me about it.” Jamie sighed.

“Ponyville is a sweet Apple Cider country!” Apple Bloom argued.

“Our cider speaks for itself!” Applejack added.

“let’s up it to the test then!” Flim smirked.

“Anywhere, anytime!” Apple Bloom glared at them with a smirk. 

Uhh…why am I getting the feeling this is going to be a bad feeling?

“Yeah! We can show you jerks that my big brother and the Apple Family can make the best cider in all of Equestria!” Carrie smirked until she was held back by Mason.

“That’s enough Carrie. Please.” Mason said, not wanting his sister to be involve with them.

“Ahh, look at that. Defending his own sister. Isn’t that cute?” Flam chuckled.

“Yeah! It’s kinda cowardly, don’t you think?” Upon hearing what they said, Mason glared at them and said “Cowardly? Cowardly?! How is defending my sister cowardly?! I care about her and I won’t let something happened to her!”

“Big brother! Calm down!” Carrie grabbed onto her brother’s sweater tightly, not wanting him to fight them.

“She’s right, young man.” Granny Smith agreed. “You can’t go and picking up fights with them.

“Ooh, what’s the matter, Granny Smith? Chicken?” Flim taunted, causing Granny Smith to narrow her eyes in anger at him.

“What did you call me, sonny?” Granny Smith asked, glaring at the twin ponies.

“Uh oh…” Kodi muttered.

“Uh oh, indeed…” Fluttershy agreed with a worried look.

“If you’re so confident in your cider, then what’s the problem?” Flim shrugged.

Granny Smith continued to glare at them until she spoke “Tomorrow morning, right here!”

“What?!” Mason exclaimed.

“But I’m afraid we haven’t any…” Flam made a mischevious smirk. "Apples..."

"You can borrow our apples over by the south field." Applejack stated, narrowing her eyes at the Flim Flam brothers. "It'll be worth teaching ya varmints a lesson or two about messing with my family."

"Yeah! We're totally gonna beat ya into tomorrow!" Carrie added, glaring at the brothers.

"Really? You and your 'big brother'?" Flam asked, taunting that last part at Mason. "Are you two even related to the Apples?"

"Well...no." Carrie hesitated on that.

"What's it matter? It doesn't matter." Mason stated with a serious look.

"Actually, it does. How can two weird creatures like yourselves even work at a place like this dump?" Flim chuckled, adding more fury at the Apple Family, and unexpectedly, us as well. "Besides, you're not family nor even a pony at all!"

"Tch!" Mason clenched his fist, feeling like punching the living daylights out of them.

"Mason...just don't get angry at them." Applejack assured, patting him on the back. "I don't care what they say."

"But...what if they're right?" Mason questioned, causing me to frown over at him. Mason is having doubts in himself. I hardly ever see him like this.

"Well anyway. It's best if we go." Flim stated before remembering something. "Oh and there's just one thing. If you win, then you can keep making apple cider for Ponyville and can keep Sweet Apple Acres."

"But if we win..." Flam added with a smirk as he and his brother said it together. "We'll take Sweet Apple Acres into our own."

"....Deal." Applejack sighed.

"What?! Applejack?!" Mason exclaimed in shock.

"Okay then! Until tomorrow!" Flim and Flam laughed before they got onto their SSCS 6000 and driven off. Mason and Carrie looked at each other in worried while the crowd dispersed and were mumbling about what just happened while the rest of us walked towards them with worried.

"Don't worry you guys. I know you'll win tomorrow." Twilight assured.

"We'd better." Applejack said with a concern look. "Cause if we don't, we're gonna lose our farm."

Mason kept silent, sinking in what Flim and Flam said.

"Big brother?" Carrie pulled onto his sweater, feeling really concern for him. "They're not gonna listen to ya, are they?"

"S-sorry...it's just that..." Mason bit his lower lip, feeling hesitate about it. 

"Mason, don't listen to them!" I exclaimed, surprising him a bit. "You can't let them get the best of ya!"

"I-I know that...but...they're right. I'm not even related to the Apple family...I'm...just an employee..." Mason looked away, feeling anguished by this.

"Big brother..." Carrie frowned, feeling guilty for her brother.

"So what?!" We all turned to see Jack walking up to Mason and just five seconds, he punched Mason in the gut, causing him to fall down to his knees in a huff. "Are you gonna let them give you that crap?! Stand up for yourself man!"

"Mason!" Rarity gasped before glaring at Jack. "What is your problem?! You could've nearly killed him!"

"She's right! Punching Mason isn't gonna solve anything!" Applejack said, poking Jack's belly. "I don't know if this is how you bikers solve these kind of issues, but that's enough!"

"Shaddup! I was giving him a talk! Besides, he's fine!" Jack scoffed before turning to Mason, who was clutching onto his stomach with Rarity and Carrie helping him. "Now listen! Family isn't about being born by blood! It's about bond! My entire family of bikers weren't by blood, but bond! Even if we were different, we were still like a family! Who cares what they say?! You need to stand up for yourself and don't let them get to ya! If you care about the Apple family, then stop your whining and get to it!"

Mason soon got back up and looked at Mason with a glare before letting out a soft smile. "Y-yeah...thanks. I'm surprised that you gave out a good and motivating speech. Almost like Ren.

"Hey!" Me and Jack yelled, highly offended of that. I cleared my throat before saying "But you know, Jack's right. It's not about being born in a family by blood, but by bond. You may have worked here for a month with them, but you're a part of them. In fact, you're a part of us. We're all family."

"Yeah! Remember the Sisterhooves Social, big brother?" Carrie reminded him.

"Yeah! Carrie thought of Kaede and Ren as older siblings figure. Even Sweetie Belle, Scootalo, and I think of you as an older brother." Apple Bloom smiled. "Including Ren."

"Ahh, Apple Bloom..." I chuckled, rubbing my head bashfully.

"Y-you're right...I am so sorry for doubting myself and made you all worried about me." Mason apologized before making a smirk at Jack. "And thank you for your encouraging words Jack."

"I was just saying..." Jack glanced away with a blush.

"But still, thank you...but still..." In a flash, he punched Jack real hard in the gut, causing him to hold his gut in pain. "That's for punching me in the gut."

"Heh heh...payback, was it? I deserved that." Jack chuckled while the rest of us smiled at the scene.

"Ahh, now that's brotherhood right there." Granny Smith chuckled.

"Eeyup!" Big Mac nodded in agreement.

"I know that tomorrow that they'll beat the Flim Flam brothers in no time!" Kaede said with a smile.

"Meow!" Rosy agreed.

"Totally! There's no way they can be defeated by a machine, right Ren?" Kodi asked me, excitedly wagging his tail.

"Right!" I nodded with a smile.

"Eeyup!" Big Mac nodded with a grin.

"But...are we even sure we can?" Jamie muttered loudly. "That machine is quite good at making cider more faster..."

"We know we can win Jamie! After all, we just gotta have faith in them." Twilight said with a smile.

"Faith?" Jamie asked in confusion.

"Of course! After all...that's the point of believing in others." Twilight smiled. "You just gotta believe in them and I'm know for sure that Applejack and her family won't fail."

"Faith..." Jamie muttered, glancing down with a sad look. Twilight's right. We just gotta believe in the Apple Family. I just know that they can do this.



The Next Day
Well, today's the day where the Apple Family will be facing off against the Flim Flam brothers. This is it! It's time for the Apple family to show them why they're the best cider making ponies in all of Equestria and put them into place. Everyone, including us, watched the competitors get into place.

Mason, Carrie, and Apple Bloom waved at us while me and Kodi waved at us with a smile on our faces, wishing them good luck. 

"So what do you think, you guys?" Jamie asked with anticipation. "Think they can do this?"

"Of course! They can do it." Kaede assured with a grin before glaring over at the Flim Flam brothers, who were just relaxing on their couch on top of the SSCS 6000. "But those guys...they're definitely bad news. Just look at them! Lazying about in their makeshift couch."

"Ain't that the frigging truth?" Jack rolled his eyes.

"Some big event, huh?" Huh? I turned over to see a familiar fedora man coming over with a smug look on his face. "What's this about?"

"Oh! They're having a competition to see who makes the best apple ciders!" Pinkie answered, getting into his face. However, he was hardly surprised by her appearance as he just continued to smirk.

"Really? The best ciders? Well I don't know who to decide." He chuckled.

"What are you talking about? It's obvious Applejack and her family." Rarity retorted.

"Yeah! And besides, at least I can at least get another batch of some apple cider." Rainbow stated, causing us all to give her blank looks. "What?! I'm thirsty, okay?!"

"Well in that case..." He pulled out a mug of apple cider, which surprised us all. "Been saving this since yesterday."

"Awesome!" Rainbow grinned as she tried to grab it until Rantaro stopped him as he pulled out his hands and said "Nah-ah-ah. Cough it up!"

"Ugh...do I have to?" Rainbow asked irritably, only to receive a deadpan look from him. "Ugh....fine." 

She slapped ten bits into his hand, which he accepted before he gave her the mug of apple cider, much to her joy.

"Seriously? Bribery?" Twilight said, sternly gazing at Rantaro.

"It's what he does best, apparently..." I sighed. Still though? What's up with him? Why does he like doing this?

"Attention, everypony!" We all turned to Mayor Mare, who was making an announcement from her megaphone. For a second there, I almost mistake that for my hacking gun. "We are about to begin the competition! Each team has one hour to produce as much cider as they can! After the barrels have been counted when time us up, the winner will be the sole provider of apple cider for all of Ponyville!"

"Good luck Mason! Carrie! Applejack!" Kodi and I cheered, causing the three to smile over at our support.

"Now...are both teams ready?" Mayor Mare asked. The Apple family, Mason, Carrie, and the Flim Flam Brothers glared at each other in anticipation.

"We're ready!" Applejack called out.

"We've been born ready." Flim said nonchalantly. Now that's the sound of arrogance there.

"Frigging morons..." Jack cursed under his breath, still irritated by those brothers.

"Then let the cider making..." Mayor Mare brought out a small hourglass and turned it upside down before shouting "Begin!"

With that, the competition went underway as Applejack bucked the first tree while Mason used his bamboo pole to swat the apples out of the tree,  while Apple Bloom and Carrie carried a wooden bucket on her head, catching them as they fell. When the two buckets got full, the filly ran over to Granny Smith and poured the bushel out next to her, where she inspected each good apple from the bad, placing the perfect ones onto a chute leading to the presser while tossing the rotten ones away. Big Macintosh ran on the treadmill to grind the wheel into the fresh apples, pouring out cider into a barrel. As soon as it was full, he placed a lid on top of it and rolled it aside, putting an empty one in its place and continued running.

"Alright! We got a full barrel! We'll beat them Flim Flam brothers in no-" Applejack jaw-dropped as she stopped mid-sentence upon seeing the SSCS 6000 already making three barrels over their side. "...time?"

"Don't celebrate so soon, Apples!" Flim taunted before he and his twin brother took a sip of their cider.

"You're already falling behind." Flam added, both brothers clinking their mugs together.

"That's so unfair." Kodi whined.

"Yeah!" Kaede agreed.

"What are we gonna do?" Fluttershy muttered while I continued to watch over with a worried look.

Soon, the Apple family and the Hunter siblings were already falling behind. After only near half a dozen barrels, they started to get exhausted as Applejack's bucking and Mason's strength were started to get weaker, Apple Bloom and Carrie's burst of energy were beginning to dwindle, Granny Smith exerted more energy than she should at her old age and was slowing her inspection and Big Mac was panting heavily from all this running.

"I...can't...keep...going...big...brother..." Carrie complained.

"We can't give up Carrie, we need to keep going..." Mason panted, almost ready to pass out.

"Oh! This is just dreadful! Even at top speed, the Apples are only making one barrel to the twins three!" Rarity exclaimed in shock while gazing over at Mason with a worried look. "Oh Mason...Carrie..."

"W-we gotta do something!" Jamie exclaimed, holding onto his journal real tight until he was grabbed by the tie by none other but Jack.

"Well let's go then!" Jack exclaimed.

"W-wait what?" Jamie asked before being dragged by him.

"Yeah! We gotta do something! No way am I gonna watch them get tired out by this and lose their family's farm!" Kaede exclaimed.

"He's right! We need to help them!" I added before rushing over to the competition with Jack, Kaede, Kodi, and a forceful Jamie on my side.

"W-what? Ren? Kaede? Jack? Jamie? Kodi?" Applejack looked over at us with a surprised look. "What in tarnation are you doing here?"

"We came to help you, idiots!" Jack exclaimed.

"But what about the rules? You guys can't just breeze in here and help us out!" Mason retorted.

"Mason!" I yelled, giving him a serious look. "It doesn't matter! We need to help out with ya and not let you guys lose your jobs! Besides, isn't that what family do? We are all family, after all...brother."

Mason widened his eyes at me before sighing and smiling over at me. "Alright, help me out...brother."

"Awesome!" I exclaimed in excitement.

"And we're here to save the day as well!" Huh? We turned around to see Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash came over with smirks on their faces.

"I just spoken with the mayor and apparently, it doesn't matter if there are no honorary members of the Apple family, those who are close to them can compete in it!" Twilight smirked.

"Well that's quite satisfying." Kaede chuckled before clapping her hands together. "Alright! Let's get to work!"

"Yeah!" I nodded before taking out my hacking gun. Jack scoffed at it and stated "Oh please, like that thing can even help out?"

I raised a brow at him before pointing it over at a nearby apple tree, shooting it with 'Break' and knocking all the apples out of it, causing Jack to jaw-dropped at me.

"You were saying?" I smirked before blowing the smoke coming out from the hacking gun...like a boss.

"A-ahh..." Jack twitched his eye a bit before regaining his composure as he scoffed "W-whatever! It's good enough for me! Let's get to it now!"

"Wait a minute, what about the other guy? Rantaro?" Rainbow reminded us. Speaking of which, where is he? I haven't seen him since the thing started out.

"Looks like he disappeared...again." Jamie sighed.

"Seems so." Kaede shook her head. "But anyway! Let's get to work!"

"Yay! Let's begin!" Pinkie cheered.

"I'm ready!" Rainbow grinned.

"Hopefully I won't get dirty after this." Rarity added.

"I-I'll give it my all!" Fluttershy smiled.

"Let's do it everypony!" Twilight exclaimed in determination. Applejack and Mason couldn't help but smile at us, happy to see us helping them out.

"Thank you all for helping us out." Applejack smiled.

"We really appreciate all of your help." Mason chuckled, smiling proudly at us all. "Besides, I think we can agree with this. We love to have the rest of our family helping out."

"I think of that too!" Applejack nodded.

"Hey, never leave a man behind as they always say." Jake laughed, patting Mason's shoulder a little hard. Mason smiled over at him and nodded before we all began to get to work. 

Me, Applejack, Fluttershy, Jack and Mason began knocking out apples off their trees. Rarity, Kaede, Rosy and Granny Smith were helping each other out in the quality-control station. Pinkie, Carrie, Apple Bloom, and Kodi were using the baskets to catch the apples. Big Mac and Rainbow Dash were running through the treadmill, increasing more of its speed of cider production. I kept blasting some trees with my Hacking Gun, only using 'Break'

"Break!" I shouted, shooting another tree and knocking some apples out of the ground with Kodi and Apple Bloom catching them

"Alright!" Apple Bloom cheered.

"We're gonna win this!" Kodi barked happily as we continued to move on. Kodiak has a point, we are totally gonna win this!

"Come on Rainbow Dash! Keep pressing!" I heard Twilight shouted over at Dash as she continued to increase the speed.

"We don't have time for quality control if we wanna win this thing!" Rainbow argued.

"Rainbow Dash! Shut up for one minute, will ya?!" Mason yelled.

"Big brother's right, Dash! If you get one bad apple in the cider, it's gonna taste bad!" Carrie added, causing her to growl angrily and kept moving. Well...that'll surely teach her a lesson about being patient at least. 

Soon, I noticed both Mason and Jack slamming a tree together, knocking more apples down.

"Not bad for a biker." Mason smirked.

"And not bad for a bodyguard. I almost take everything back. Almost." Jack smirked, patting his gut out.

"Whatever..." Mason rolled his eyes while I smiled at the two of them. Looks like those two are finally getting along than I thought.



One Hour Later
"Time's up!"

Thank god, finally! I never...felt so...tired before...in my entire life...man. My hacking gun's power was nearly out of power, and looking around to see everyone was tired.

"Dang...I feel like I'm about to have a heart attack..." Jack sighed, taking off his coat, revealing his meaty but muscular arms.

"Tell me about it. But this isn't nearly as tough than the training I had when I worked as a personal bodyguard." Mason panted, taking off his sweater and revealed his muscles, making some of the mares, including Rarity, from the crowd to blush and admired them. Hmm...seems like Mason got some admirers in their eyes.

"But you know what? I think we did a good job, everyone." Kaede smiled.

"Yeah! We totally did! There's no way we could've lose to those meanies!" Carrie added.

"W-well....judging by all this cider we made. I saw we did pretty well." Jamie chuckled with a soft grin.

"You know what? You all are right. No way we could've lost to them." Applejack nodded in agreement.

"You're right Applejack, and I'm proud of you." Twilight smiled.

"Thanks Twi."

"Integrity like that will always be...rewarded." Jamie added.

"Flim and Flam wins!"

"Wait what?!" We all exclaimed in shock as everypony else was too shocked to hear that as well while the two conniving twins were getting giddy at that.

"W-w-w-w-we lost?!" Kodi gaped.

"Daww, too bad, Apples." Flim chucked with a mischievous smirk.

"Guess you'll just have to find a new line of work that doesn't match your names quite so...perfectly." Flam smirked slyly.

"Hey! That's no fair!" I exclaimed. "You guys must've cheated!"

"Cheated? Us?" Flim asked in mocked surprise. "No way we could've cheated. I say you all are the cheaters themselves."

"What?" Twilight asked in confusion.

"What do you mean we cheated? We've worked together as a family." Rarity stated, glaring at the two brothers.

"True, but still...you all had a mighty big help with each other, making the production more faster, just like he warn us." Flam explained, much to our confusion. He? Who is he implying. "Isn't that right...Rantaro?"

"Indeed it was...." We all slowly turned around to see Rantaro standing over five feet from us all with a sly smirk from his face. "Flim and Flam."

"R...Rantaro?" I asked in surprise. 

"It was quite a fun match. I really appreciate your work efforts, you guys." He slow-clapped for us with a smirk. "Too bad you had to lose. Who knew that the Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000 could go turbo fast after I gave them a suggestion to let them use it in case they saw you guys might work together. After all, I did told them that they you all seemed very close and are willing to help them out."

"You bastard!" Jack growled, cracking his knuckles in anger. "Why that scamp!"

"I don't believe it!" Kodi blinked in shock.

"You...were on their side?" Applejack asked, her face forming from shock to anger. "How could you?!"

"You whippersnapper!" Granny Smith growled.

"Rantaro! Explain this now!" Twilight demanded.

"W-why? Why would you do this?" Fluttershy tearfully asked. 

"It was quite simple really." Rantaro shrugged as he began to tell us what happened.



Flashback
"I gotta say brother, those Apple family and those two humans are gonna be quite the competition tomorrow." Flam stated as he and his brother were relaxing on the SSCS 6000 nice and comfy as the sun was setting down.

"Don't worry, they won't be that much of the competiton." Flim assured with a wave of his hoof.

"I wouldn't say that." The two brothers looked down to see Rantaro looking at them and their machine with a smirk on his face. "But I gotta say, I am impress with it. You two call yourselves...the Flim Flam brothers, correct?"

"You darn right my friend!" Fim nodded with a smile as his brother asked "So you must be one of those humans we heard about, eh?"

"Wow, guess our kind are famous here in your world, eh?" Rantaro asked rhetorically before shrugging "But yeah, names Rantaro Wilde."

"So Rantaro, what can we do for ya?" Flim asked. "You aren't spying on us to go and tell those Apples and those humans about us, will ya?"

"Oh please, like I would waste my time with them." Rantaro shrugged. "But I gotta admit, you two make a wonderful business with this contraption."

Rantaro gazes at the SSCS 6000 with a sly smirk on his face. "So this machine can make apple cider in a second?"

"Well of course! This machine was made from our hearts and souls!" Flim nodded before he and his brother hugged each other.

"Yep! Like a member of the family!" Flam nodded.

"I see..." Rantaro nodded, glancing away from them before turning back with a smug look. "But hey, I learned about a competition you guys are about to have tomorrow with the Apple family and I thought I could give ya an advice or two."

"And why should believe in ya?" Flim asked suspiciously.

"Well...if its trust ya want, I'll tell ya a little secret of mine..." Rantaro gestured to them as the two came in closer as he whispered something to their ears. After he was finished, Flim and Flam let out laughter before patting him on the back.

"Well I gotta say! You gotta be great with that!" Flim laughed.

"Yeah! So what's in it for us?" Flam asked, feeling interested in him more. 

"Let's say that if you guys win, I'll be your franchisee and help you franchise your whole business. You two would be great and amazing with it." Rantaro smirked. "But I must warn you, those Apple family might get back up from their friends."

"What? Those other humans?" Flim scoffed. "Please, like they can match up to us."

"I don't know, they looked promising to me. They don't joke around." Rantaro snickered. "Besides...they could beat you by a second if your machine can go to its normal speed. Unless you can maximize it."

"Well, there's always the turbo power, but we never did that." Flam stated before he and his brother looked at each other in concern about it.

"But remember this, if you lose, then you'll lose the rights to beat those Apples and won't be able to get enough profit for your cider making business. You two came here to Ponyville for that reason, right? Not to make everypony enjoy themselves with your apple cider, but to earn their profits from those suckers. A normal person would be suspicious of that, but after seeing these ponies for a while, these guys are too naive and would fall for anything." Rantaro explained before he began walking off, tilting his fedora bit.

"Just remember...in case they're beating you, try to use that turbo power boost of yours. It might come in handy if ya ever want to win and you need me. If ya want to be the richest ponies in the world, then do that." Rantaro took his leave while the brothers looked at each other in thought, wondering if what Rantaro might be right about that. Unbeknownst to them, Rantaro smirked before hearing them shout "Wait!"

They both rushed to his side as Flim said "You got yourself a deal!"

"And what a wonderful deal it would be!" Flam added as Rantaro smiled at them and shook their hooves.

"Well...it'll be an honor to work for you...Flim and Flam."
Flashback Ended



"N-no way!" Apple Bloom gasped. "You sided with them?!"

"How could you Rantaro?!" Kaede exclaimed angrily.

"That's how business rolls. Besides, I don't see why that's a problem." Rantaro shrugged with a nonchalant look on his face. 

"But Rantaro!" I called, gaining his attention as he glances at me. "But I thought we were friends! After everything we've done together! I...I thought we were your friends!" 

"...Who said we were friends?" Rantaro asked, surprising me.  "All I remember is that you called me your 'friend', but I didn't accept it. I mean, come on! Friendship, so bogus."

"But what about the magic of friendship?" Twilight questioned. "Don't you even care about that?"

"Magic of friendship? Please, that sounds something a seven year old could've come up with." Rantaro rolled his eyes, angering Twilight while I felt devastated by everything he said. So...he was joking. 

"You bastard! I'm gonna kill you!" Jack screamed as he was about pounce at Rantaro until both Mason and Carrie stopped him.

"Stop it! It's no use!" Mason yelled.

"Are you kidding?! He's siding with those bastards and now the apple family lost their home thanks to those chumps!" Jake argued.

"I understand that, but you need to calm down! Fighting isn't gonna solve anything!" Mason retorted.

"Big brother's right! So please stop!" Carrie begged. Jack looked at them for a second before scoffing and decided to let it go...for now.

"Fine..." Jack glared dangerously at Rantaro, who returned a smirk back him before returning to the Flim Flam brothers and said "So you guys, why not sell your cider to the folks? I bet their 'thirsty' after today's work."

"You know what? That we'll do!" Flim nodded before giving three mugs and poured of their ciders and gave them to some ponies. 

"Yeah! Now we're gonna turn Sweet Apple Acres into our own business! Flim Flam Fields!" Flam snickered before he and his brother began laughing.

"That's no fair!" Kodi exclaimed.

"Life isn't fair, little doggy." Rantaro snickered, patting him on the head as he growled angrily at him.

"Rantaro..." I muttered, feeling heartbroken that he would betray us.

"Sorry Ren, but I don't trust anyone. That's what I learn from life." I looked at him with a confused look as he continued "Why else did I not give you my name? Your life, name, and everything about yourself are precious to ya. You must think for yourself, and care for yourself. That's what I learn from my childhood."

What does he mean by that? So that means he never trusted us from the start? Sure I understand that, but still...to use like that...and deceived us...that's so cruel."

"I can't believe you!" Rainbow exclaimed angrily. "I so take everything back from you!"

"Are you seriously gonna do this?" Rarity questioned, pointing over to the Apple family. "What about them? Don't you see how much they care about each other?"

Rantaro glanced at Applejack and her family as he let out a snort and scoffed "Please, like I care. Family is nothing more than a nuisance!"

"What?!" Mason, Jack, Twilight and Rainbow Dash leered at the man until Applejack shouted "That's enough everypony!"

We all turned to her as she sighed sadly and said "They won fair and square. A deal's a deal."

"Applejack! No!" Carrie cried. 

"But sis! I don't wanna leave Ponyville!" Apple Bloom complained.

"Sorry Applejack, but I'm afraid we got no choice..." Applejack glared over at Rantaro, with a frustrated look, along with her family as he kept his smirk. Everyone else glared at him while Pinkie began crying because now the Apple family have to move away. I don't believe it...Rantaro...why? Is it really the end of us? I can't believe it...I don't wanna! Applejack is one of the best friends I ever made since arriving to Equestria! She made so many memories here in Sweet Apple Acres! I even remember coming here on my third day in Ponyville...this is so messed up! Dang it!

"Bleh! What the heck is this?!"

"Is this cider or dirt?!"

"Why does my cider have worms and branches in it?!" Huh? We all turned around, including the Flim Flam brothers, as we all jaw-dropped in shock upon seeing ponies spitting out the contents of their drinks and threw their mugs down on the ground.

"What's going on?" Rainbow questioned. Jamie narrowed his eyes at the mugs before gasping in realization.

"It's the cider! That's what!" Jamie pointed out. "Something in the cider is causing them all to spit out the drinks!"

"Then that means..." Kaede covered her mouth in shock as she gasped "No way! The cider is terrible then!"

"What?!" Flim and Flam gasped in shocked.

"Ha ha ha ha!" We all turned to Rantaro, who was laughing with a smile on his face. "Well...looks like you guys are out of business."

"W-what?" Flim asked.

"Explain yourself, Rantaro!" Flam demanded angrily.

"You guys forgotten the most important thing to run a business. Ever heard of the quote 'Quality will always prevail over quantity'? Apparently, you two ponies didn't. Besides, I knew this might happen."

"What?!" We all exclaimed, shocked to hear that. W-wait a minute...is Rantaro...?

"Yeah, I knew about that the turbo boost might've caused the machine to not only suck in the apples, but as well as the dirt, trees, and stones. I witnessed it during the competition since these guys over there were too busy with making apple cider." Rantaro pointed over to us as we all gaped at him while he continued "Besides, it was quite amusing to see you two now in humiliation and embarrassment."

"B-but what about our deal?!" Flim exclaimed.

"Oh, I just lied." Rantaro shrugged with an uncaring look, ignoring the shocked looks from the brothers. "I lied in order to expose the truth out of ya."

"The truth out of us?" Flam asked.

"That you two are sniveling conniving dirty liars that tried to outrun their business. A family business, to be exact." Rantaro explained, his face turning serious. "Let's think about this. Ever heard of monopoly before? From the sources I've learned that Sweet Apple Acres holds many different farms that sells the best apples in all over Equestria, correct? So if you took down the business here, the source of where it all began, then every apple business here would crumble down and if you sold your apple business here, then it would lead to a disaster. After seeing every one of these ponies drinking those apple cider of yours, then that means you two would get in so much trouble for all this. So I'm afraid that you two are done for. Besides, why would I work for a bunch of suckers like you?"

....No comment. No one said a thing upon everything Rantaro just explained. This guy means business.

"N-no way! B-but you told us your secret! Everything you told us! You're like one of-"

"Don't compare me to low-life con-artists like you." Rantaro sternly said, crossing his arms. "I may have conned people from the past, but at least I don't run their business out of the picture. It just seems unfair and most businesses I conned are places I like to eat and sleep after all."

Flim and Flam jaw-dropped from everything, shocked that they just got outsmarted.

"Also, if I were you...I say run for your life right now because it looks like your 'customers' are gonna demand a refund." Rantaro pointed the crowd behind Flim and Flam, who all glared angrily at the two brothers.

Flim and Flam started sweating nervously as they asked the crowd for their opinion.

"You wouldn't even pay one cent?"

"No!"

"How about two cups for one cent?"

"No!"

"....Two bits for a barrel?"

"NO!"

The brothers backed away and whimpered nervously, realizing that Rantaro was right.

"It looks liek we've encountered a slight...problem here in Ponyville." Flam whispered to his brother.

"Nopony wants our product...next town?" Flim suggested.

"Next town! Let's go!" Flam suggested.

"Let's go, Flim!" 

As the two brothers got on their contraption and tried to escape, their machine started malfunctioning. 

"W-what the? What's going on? Why isn't this thing working?!" Flim demanded.

"Oh right. While we talked yesterday, I had a little friend of mine take care of that problem for ya." Rantaro smirked. "Isn't that right, Gizmo?"

"Gizmo?" Fluttershy questioned and to answer her question, something began shaking out of Rantaro's fedora, revealing to be an adult sized grey Raccoon who gave him a high-five. "Ahh, it's a raccoon!"

"A raccoon?! For someone like him to own for a pet, he's quite uncouth!" Rarity scoffed.

"But still...did he just helped us?" Kodi asked slowly.

"It sure looks like it." Jamie shrugged. I began to slowly let out a happy smile and yelled "Yes! Thanks Rantaro! I was starting to have doubts on you! You're awesome!"

"Heh heh, it's what I do best." Rantaro shrugged. "Besides, I lied to you on everything I said to you just to convince those suckers. Besides, they can't take all the fun from me."

"Huh? The heck do ya mean by that?" Jack questioned.

"Hey! You'll pay for this Rantaro Wilde!" Flim exclaimed, shaking his hood at him.

"Yeah! You'll get what's coming to ya!" Flam added, angrily glaring at them.

"Ugh...you two are so annoying." Rantaro rolled his eyes. "Oh and by the way, you two won't be needing this."

Rantaro pulled out a small bag and threw it to the crowd, revealing to be a bag filled with bits, much to everypony's joy as they immediately gotten all their profit back.

"W-what?! How?!" Flim and Flam jaw-dropped.

"Again, when you two weren't looking from our little talk yesterday." Rantaro snickered. 

"Why you little! You traitor!" Flim growled.

"You know! We can tell everyone your little secret right here! Right now!" Flam threatened, hardly surprising Rantaro.

"Whatever, not my problem." Rantaro shrugged.

"What?! You little!"

"Alright, I think I have had enough with them." Mason sighed before turning to me and asked "Hey Ren, is your hacking gun still working?"

"Just a little more power left in it, why do you ask?" I asked.

"Please help 'fix' their Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000." Mason winked at me before I let out a smirk and nodded before aiming my hacking gun at the SSCS 6000 at them and shouted "Paralyze!"

The electric beam shot at the machine, causing it go haywire and immediately was driven away straight out of Ponyville with the brothers yelling "WE'LL BE BACK!"

"Well...that was one way to get rid of them." Twilight commented with a raised brow.

"So wait, does that mean?" Apple Bloom turned to her sister with an excited grin. 

"Yep! That means we won! Sweet Apple Acres stays!" Applejack smirked.

"And look everyone!" Carrie pointed over to all thirty barrels of apple ciders that we made so far during the competition. "Looks like we just got enough apple cider for everypony!"

"Indeed little sister." Mason ruffled her hair up, causing her to giggle.

"Ha ha! Now that's teamwork!" Jack wrapped his arm around the two siblings with a grin. "Also, I'm sorry if I said all those things to ya back there. Hope you can forgive me, dude?"

Mason looked at him for a while before smiling over at him and said "After you and the others helped out with me and gave me that lesson yesterday, I say you're already forgiven."

"Ha ha! Thanks!" Jack ruffled his hair, which he didn't mind.

"You know Mason, you were pretty awesome back there!" I added, nudging him a bit.

"Same to you Ren." Mason nodded. "But besides that, is it true? Did you really see me as an older brother?"

"Well yeah! You remind me a lot like my older brother, only much more cooler!" I grinned, catching Mason by surprise before he ruffled my hair and said "Well, I appreciate that...little brother."

"You too, big bro." I teased.

"And I say that I love being a part of this group." Kaede laughed, joining in.

"Y-yeah...me too." Jamie nodded with a meek smile.

"I say we all deserved it to be in it." Applejack smiled as the others came in for a hug, all except for one.

"Hey Rantaro, you want to join in?" Kodi asked curiously. Rantaro glanced at us and said "Why should I? Just because you guys won doesn't mean anything on what I said."

"What do you mean? You did this all for us!" Twilight pointed out. "You helped save Sweet Apple Acres by double-crossing the Flim Flam Brothers."

"Heck yeah!" Jack grinned. "You got the guts to do that to those sneaky bastards! I'm impressed!"

"Indeed. Besides your weird and suspicious ways, I say you deserved to be a part of this group." Rarity smiled over him.

"Mi'lady speaks the truth." Mason grinned, causing Rarity to giggle and blush lightly.

"Oh Mason..."

"And while I detest lying, I say you sure taught those brothers a lesson." Applejack said, smiling over him.

"Well of course. After knowing some about you since last week, I learned that you like telling the truth, but lying is good too." Rantaro stated. "Lying may be a bad thing, but sometimes it can lead us to the truth. Lies, white lies, any type of lies you use, sure they may not be the full truth, but it helps lead to it. Remember that..."

"Uhh...thanks?" Applejack raised a brow.

"You know! I'm quite impress with this whippersnapper! Just who is he?" Granny Smith wondered while Big Mac shrugged.

"Whatever...besides, take this." He threw in some more bits at them, which Apple Bloom caught. "Just something for repaying for your cider after I stole half the batch. Think of it as payment from me."

"Heh...not half bad." Applejack smirked.

Rantaro smirked back at her and said "That's how I roll. But anyway, I'll be taking my leave. Not like I have business here..."

"Come on dude! How about one cider?" I offered. "We are friends after all!"

"Friends?" Rantaro questioned. "I told ya, who said we're friends? I meant what I said, we are not friends, we're just strangers."

"But still, I'll work hard in hopes in earning your trust." I said with a serious look, causing Rantaro to glance at me. "I don't know how long, but I'll be sure to see you smiling and calling me your friend."

"Same here." Fluttershy added. "I hope we get along so well."

"Me too!" Pinkie added, appearing in front of Rantaro. "I hope we become good friends! Hopefully until next season or so!"

"...What?" Rantaro questioned.

"Nothing! Just something aloud." Pinkie giggled, causing us all to feel weirded out by her. Okay, let's just not jump ahead of her on that...or whatever that meant.

"Well whatever...enjoy your apple cider." He shrugged as his pet raccoon, Gizmo, ran back up to his shoulder and handed him two mugs of apple cider, one for him and one for Gizmo.

"W-what the?" Applejack widened her eyes as they turned back and saw that they used the apple cider on it while everypony else looked at him with awe and amazement. 

"How did he do that?" Apple Bloom questioned.

Rantaro glanced at her and smiled before saying "That's what I do. I always get business rolling. See ya."

With that, he began to leave while we watched him leave off a distance from us.

"Still as suspicious as ever." Kaede sighed.

"Well at least we're all started to trust him at least..." Twilight sighed.

"Indeed." Rarity nodded.

"I don't!" Rainbow huffed. "Now come on! Let's get some cider ready!"

"Calm down Rainbow Dash. We'll get ready for it." Mason sighed.

"Yay! I want some cider too!" Carrie added.

"Count me in as well!" Jake patted his gut while Jo Jo nuzzled his cheek, agreeing with it too. 

"Yeah! I'm down with it! What about you guys?" I asked the crowd. "Want some apple cider as well?"

"No!" Everypony yelled, causing me to blink in surprise.

"...You're kidding right?"

"Yes!" The crowd smiled as they rushed in and prepare to buy some apple cider. I then noticed Rantaro watching afar with a smirk on his face. Huh, guess he wasn't planning to leave at all. Just staying off a distance from us, that's all. I have so many questions about this guy. Who is he? Why does he have a phone but not us? And what did Flim and Flam meant about telling him about some secret?

"Wait..." Huh? I noticed Jamie in deep thought. "Rantaro Wilde...lies...AH!" Jamie slowly began widening his eyes in shock before letting out a loud scream. "AHHHHHHHHHHH!"

"What? What's wrong Jamie?!" Twilight asked in alarm. Jamie slowly turned to Rantaro in fear, his legs shaking and his face went pale.

"T-that man...I know who he is..."

"Y-you do?" Fluttershy asked in confusion.

"What do you mean you know him? You've heard of him before?" Rainbow questioned.

"H-he's...Rantaro Wilde. The world infamous broker." Jamie pointed to him as he glances towards him while the rest of us looked over him with shocked, surprised, disbelief, and angry faces.

"What?! A broker?!" Jack exclaimed.

"Wait...now I remember!" Mason widened his eyes in shock before glaring straight at Rantaro. "He's a broker! Just like Jamie said! He's well known in the underworld society!"

"Yeah, yeah...now that you mention it, I've seen him once before! He once beaten a pal of mine from a game of poker!" Jack exclaimed angrily. "It's him!"

"A broker? What's that?" Pinkie asked. "Ooh! Is it someone who breaks a pony's body?! That is scary!"

"No, that's...not it Pinkie." Kaede stated.

"No. Not at all." Twilight shook his head before looking over at Rantaro with widened eyes. "A broker is a criminal who buys and sells things for his own profit."

"What?!" Kodi exclaimed. "I-is that true?"

Rantaro glanced towards us, leaning against the wall of a building before letting out a smirk.

"Well...looks like the cat's out of the bag. I didn't knew you guys would've found me out, but it looks like I've been caught." Rantaro chuckled with a sly grin. I looked over him with a shock and yet pale expression upon hearing all this. 

"Rantaro...is a criminal...?" I muttered. No way...the next humans that woken up in the pod was an outlaw biker...and a broker?...What the heck is going on anymore?!
To Be Continued
> Chapter 45 - Read it and Weep!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"What the heck?!" What in the crap is happening?! I looked up to the sky see multiple meteors showering down across the desert as me and the gang quickly rode our bikes through the highway in hopes of escaping through the place. Luckily, the meteors didn't hit us and the gang were still alive. We soon arrived back to the hideout, or our gang's usual meet-up as they called us over. 

"Come on ya lazy varmints! Get in there and hide ya!" A large man that was a little bigger than me yelled, and he was quite...husky like me. That was my old man, the current leader of the Yamaki Gang. I always looked up to him and always admired him as I continued to walk to his footsteps. Rumors has it that he rode a motorcycle at the age of five, do I believe that? Yes, yes I do. Soon, he and the others immediately ran straight into the place while the meteors crashed into the ground. The gang managed to get inside of the hideout, but some...didn't make it out. I continued to run ahead while dodging the upcoming meteors, but I was almost out of breath. Wasn't a good runner since my...you know what? Never mind! Right now I need to-

CRASH!

What the heck?! I looked over to my right to see something crashing into the ground. I sorta felt curious as I walked over to this one. For some reason...this one....it felt so different...My gut was telling me something odd was up with it. Everything around here, the sounds, everything, was all too quiet now. I looked over at the crater, and saw a meteorite that was shining some sort of color. Orange, maybe. What the heck is this dang thing? Whatever, let's get this thing. I hope I'll take it as a memento. Besides, it'll make a cool thing for my treasury and for us to remember those we just lost now. 

As soon as I reached it, I grabbed it until it began shining brightly as something flow out of him and into my body.

"AAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" I yelled as this weird energy substance began getting inside of my body! What the hell is happening to me?! Why can't I move?! What's happening?!




"GAAAH!" What the heck was that?! I was out of my couch-like bed as my face was nearly covered by the blanket. Heck, I even took off my coat and such, barely in my undies. "Oh...it's just some stupid dream."

I stretched my back before getting up, picking up my clothes off the ground, even my biker's coat on as I exited out of the room, fully dressed. Man, this garage looks pretty awesome, but I'm gonna need to fix it up if I want to ride one of these babies. Surprised that Equestria don't have bikes like mine. Then again, those ponies are just plain stupid.

"Well...you're up early." And just when I thought I could've gotten a good day than this. A familiar wannabe was seen walking out of his room with a smirk. "Surprise to see me again?"

I let out a growl and ignored him before I headed inside of the elevator with this bastard with me. Ever since we discovered his true identity last week, he somehow disappeared without any of us looking for it. Now he decided to show his stupid face straight at us like it's nothing. I had to resist the urge from beating this bastard into the hole of the ground with my fist.

“You know, I’m surprise a big brute like you hasn’t tried killing me yet.” I glared towards at the sneaky little bastard as he glanced at me with a smirk. “Guess the heir to the Yamaki Biker gang isn’t as strong as I thought.”

“The fudge did you say?!” I yelled angrily, grabbing him by the necktie. “You really asking for it, are ya?!”

“If ya gonna punch me, then don’t. You think hurting me is gonna solve anything? Sorry, but that’s not true.” Rantaro shrugged as the elevator arrived to our destination, the living room. I let go of the bastard and decided to leave it out for now. I’ll beat this idiot later…when I feel like to or if he taunts about my weight again.

“Oh hey Jack! Rantaro!” I looked over to see Ren waving at us with a smile. “Good morning.”

“Hey.” I said firmly before heading over to the small dining room where he and that little girl, Carrie, were busy eating some eggs and pancakes some OJ. Even their pets were busy eating some on their own food in their small bowls

“Ah, good morning.” We turned to see Mason and Kaede walking in, each carrying two plates filled with food on their hands. “I see you are awake. Good morning Jack.”

“Sup.” I smiled while Rantaro let out a snicker and said “And I suppose you guys are trying to forget about me?”

“…Right. Good morning Rantaro…” Mason said, sternly glaring at him. 

“Now that’s more better. Really appreciate it. Including the apron.” Huh? As Rantaro patted him on the head, Mason continued to glare at him before I noticed the white apron he was wearing. 

“You were wearing an apron?” I questioned.

“Yeah, just for cooking.” Mason stated.

“I’m surprised to see him again.” Kaede said, looking over at Rantaro.

“What? Surprised?” Rantaro shrugged before receiving his meal and taking a sip from his glass of orange juice. “Hmm…not bad for a bodyguard.”

“Hmph!” Mason glanced away, not bothering with him.

“For a broker, he sure knows how to be cocky and confident all the time with that smirk.” Kaede said aloud.

“That’s just how I roll.” Rantaro stated before grabbing his plate and began walking off.

“Hey! Where the heck do ya think you’re going?” I demanded.

“I’m gonna be eating outside. Not bothering with eating with you lot.” He smirked before saying “Besides, not that I don’t like ya or whatnot. I don’t trust a fat biker like you.”

“Why you!” Before I could pounce at him, Ren immediately got up and stopped me. 

“Wait Jack! It’s not worth it! Fighting each other isn’t gonna solve anything!” Ren yelled. “You all need to chill out and relax!”

I looked at him for a while before letting out a huff before muttering “Fine…”

I sat down, leaving my feet on the table as Rantaro glanced at us before taking his leave. I didn’t even want to punch him. He was just being a piece of crap anyway.

“Yep, I stand corrected.” Kaede sighed before placing the food down on the table. “Though, I never thought we be friends with a broker.”

“Is being a broker that bad?” Kodiak asked curiously.

“If you buy and sell things off the black market, you can consider that.” Mason sighed.

“Come on guys, just because he looks suspicious and is a broker, doesn’t mean we can’t trust him.” Ren stated with a weak grin. 

“Easy for you to say.” I rolled my eyes. “That bastard is as good as gone.”

“Is he really that bad, big brother?” Carrie asked her brother with a curious look. Mason nodded and explained “True, I’ve heard rumors about him. They call him the ‘Shadow Broker’ because he always slips away from police and knows how to make shady deals.”

“That explains a lot.” Ren said, sweat-dropping little. “But remember, he tricked the Flim Flam brothers by inflating their ego so much that they would go on the brink to turbo max their SSCS 6000.”

“SSCS 6000? The heck is that?” I questioned with furrow brows. Ren rubbed his head bashfully before letting out a nervous chuckle and replied “It stands for Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000.”

“Well that surely makes the name shorter.” Kaede chuckled. 

“Yeah. Good thing those meanies won’t be coming here for a while.” Carrie smiled. 

“But you know…they call it that last ‘6000’ right?” Kodi questioned. “So if that’s supposed to be 6000? Then what ever happened to 1 through 5999?”

We all looked at each other, realizing that the mutt had a point. And now we had more frigging reasons why we shouldn’t trust them.

“That’s a good point, pal…” Ren rubbed his chin in thought. “I don’t know honestly. I haven’t really thought of that.”

“And it’s best if we don’t or else we might get a headache just thinking about them again.” Mason sighed. 

“Ain’t that the frigging truth?” I agreed before eating the whole thing off the plate. “Alright, I’m done…” 

Soon, I let out a burp, which made the gang, except Mason, laugh at that. 

“Really?” Mason asked, raising a brow.

“What you expect? I love eating. It’s one of the three best things I do everyday.” I shrugged.

“What are the three best things you do then?” Kodi asked curiously. I let out a tooth-eating grin and replied “Eat, sleep, and ride my bike all day.”

Everyone gave me deadpanned and blank looks, hearing that answer of mine.

“Riiiight…” Kaede muttered dryly.

“Whatever…it’s my thing, not you guys.” I scoffed before noticing that the little blue nerd wasn’t here. “Where’s the book worm at?”

“He’s with Twilight helping out with research purposes at the Golden Oaks Library.” Ren explained before noticing my confused look. “It’s a library in Ponyville.”

“I knew what it was!” I exclaimed. “Just thinking about him and the purple chick. So they’re like liberians or something?”

“You mean librarians?” Kaede corrected me. 

“Shaddup and give me the answer already!”

“Well yeah! Jamie and Twilight are quite smart like big brother and are quite knowledgeable on each subject and are studying on each other’s world.” Carrie explained.

“It is quite true.” Mason nodded with a soft smirk before frowning. “But I worried about him. He overworks himself too hard. You have noticed those baggy eyes of his, right?”

“Yeah, the dude looked like he hadn’t in days.” I stated, crossing my arms.

“That’s because he always does night reading too much. We tried convincing him many times, but no matter what, he won’t listen.” Kaede sighed. “I swear, he’s as stubborn than you, Mason, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack combined.”

“I’m not that stubborn.” Mason said with a sigh.

“Same here! What the heck?!” I exclaimed.

“Heh heh, sorry…” She rubbed her head with a nervous smile.

“Whatever…” I soon got my feet off the table and immediately began walking off. “Welp…I’m gonna go and find something to do. Tell me when we can look for something we can get out of here.”

“We told you before Jack, until we hear something from Princess Celestia, we’re gonna be staying here for a while.” Kaede reminded me, causing me to growl.

“Well I hope this ‘princess’ chick can get the job done! No frigging way am I gonna waste my time being here!” I scoffed before taking my leave until…

“Jack wait.” I glanced over to see Ren walking up to me with a soft smile and said “Listen, I know you’re confused and upset, but you need to chill out and enjoy your time here. Trust me, you get used to it and I’m talking about experience.”

I looked at him for a while before letting out a ‘Hmph!’ sound before leaving the place, slamming the door shut.

“Well…didn’t see that coming.” I overheard the mutt said, feeling surprised by that.

“I did.” Like you knows better! Stupid black haired idiot! And just when I called him my friend! Ugh, I’m stuck here in this…weird colorful dump filled with talking ponies that said can do magic! I’ve been waiting for two whole weeks and I’ve been getting impatient! I need to get back home to my gang, my parents, everything! I have a frigging life, dang it! Can this day get any worse?!

"WHOOOOAAAA!" 

"What the fu-"

CRASH!

All of a sudden, I blacked out after getting tackled by something behind, straight at my arm as I was blasted down on the ground real hard, creating a long crater of the crash site. I don't know what just happened, but I do have one thing to say....

"Owwww...." 




....

"Is he gonna be okay?"

"Oh man, I never thought they would both get hurt like this."

"Don't worry, I'm...sure they'll be alright."

"Jack's a tough guy, so he'll be fine."

"I-I hope so big brother!"

"Y-yeah. I sure hope he doesn't get t-too angry once he finds out where he's at."

"What do you expect from him? Fatso here is like an angry bull."

"Rantaro! Don't say that out loud! If Jake overhears you in his sleep, I can imagine what he might do to you."

"I'll be fine. Keep your nose out of my business, purple pony."

"Umm...my name is Twilight Sparkle."

"And I'm a shady broker that you guys are so afraid and can't trust. We can't have everything now, can we?"

"Ugh..." I muttered, slowly waking up as I saw many blurs in front of me before revealing to be familiar people and ponies. "What the heck? Where the fudge am I?"

"Hey Jack..." I looked over to see Ren smiling at me sheepishly. "How you feeling dude?"

"Like crap..." I answered before trying to get up, only for me not be able to do so. "What the?"

"Yeah...we imagined that you wouldn't like this." What the heck is even talking about? Why can't I...what the heck?! One look at myself and saw that I was on a hospital bed, wearing a night gown and having my left arm in a cast while my right leg was also in the air while in the air. I even felt some bandages around my face.

"What the heck?!" I yelled loudly, nearly causing them to cover their eyes.

"That was our reaction when we saw you and Dashy like that." Kodi said, sweat-dropping a bit while having that cat on his back as she tilted her head in confusion.

"Dashy?...Wait, you mean skittles?" I asked with slightly widened eyes.

"Still calling her by that?" Twilight questioned.

"Hmph! I can call whoever I want when I meet them." I scoffed, turning my head away, only to make me wince in pain.

"You better not move a muscle!" Applejack said with a stern and serious tone. "The more you move around, the more pain you're gonna get!"

"Not my fault that this happened!" I retorted, gritting my teeth.

"Well it is if ya weren't paying attention!" Applejack argued back.

"Well excuse me for not paying attention, ya farmer chick."

"Farmer chick?! Do I look like a baby chick to ya?!"

"Depends on who I'm looking at."

"Ooh..." Kodi winced at those words while Ren, Fluttershy, and Pinkie covered their mouths in shock with the pink pony muttering "Ooh...burn!"

"She got roasted, that's what." Rantaro said bluntly.

Applejack narrowed his eyes, almost having the urge to beat me down until Twilight and Jamie stepped in as the purple chick said "Applejack! Jack's in the hospital! I think now's not the time to teach him a lesson!"

"T-Twilight's right! W-we should reconsider of this. P-please..." Jamie begged. "I-I'm sure Jack didn't mean it."

"I did. No need for defending me." I rolled my eyes, upsetting Applejack even more. 

"A-Applejack! Please don't hurt J-Jack! I don't think adding more bruises to someone like who's in the hospital is a bad idea!" Jamie pleaded. Applejack looked at him and Twilight, who nodded with Jamie's statement, before letting out a sigh and said "Fine...only because you two said so."

"Thank you." Jamie smiled.

"Yeah, that's a relief." Twilight sighed in relief.

"More like luck..." Rantaro smirked, causing me to leer at the damn idiot. That idiot is lucky that I'm in these casts or else I'll knock him upside the head.

"So mind you idiots tell me what happened or what?" I questioned impatiently.

"Ooh! Ooh! I'll go! I'll go!" Pinkie offered, causing me to grumble as I said "I don't care! Just tell me!"

"Well Rainbow Dash was practicing her aerial tricks!" She popped right next to me, nearly getting me a heart attack. "And me, Twilight, and Rarity were watching her go through it until she went too far and accidentally crashed into you." 

"And you ended up here." Kaede added with a meek and nervous smile. "Guess you just came at the wrong place at the wrong time."

"Yeah, but don't worry. I'm sure the doctor will give ya the good news." Ren assured.

"Great...so I'm stuck in a hospital. That's fan-frigging-tastic." I growled.

"Well at least enjoy while it lasts." Rarity assured with a soft grin. "Staying at the hospital isn't necessarily a bad thing."

"Easy for you to say, ya frigging loon." I rolled my eyes, ignoring the eye twitching she was giving me.

"Rarity, please take a deep breath and try to forget about it. It works for me sometimes." Mason suggested, putting his hand on her back. She did what he said as she took a deep breath and sighed calmly before saying "Why thank you for the suggestion, Mason."

Mason nodded with a smile as we heard the door opened, revealing the doctor.

"Ooh Doctor Horse!" Twilight called. "Thank goodness you're here."

"Doctor Horse?" Carrie asked curiously before snickering a bit.

"I don't know if I should laugh or feel concerned for that name." Kaede whispered to Jamie and Ren, which they both nodded in agreement.

"I never been late on seeing my patients." Doctor Horse stated before muttering "Except for my lunch breaks, that is..."

"Oh Doctor! Is our friend Jack gonna be okay?" Fluttershy asked in concern.

"Don't worry. Me and the rest of the good nurses and doctors took good care of him." The doc examined me on my casts and said "He was lucky for us to have our healing magic to work on him. His arm and leg should be healed by a few days."

"What?!" I exclaimed in shock, causing everyone to look at me with shock. "Doc, I think these dumb injuries I have should take longer than just a few days!"

"While that is true..." Jamie muttered loudly, gaining everyone's attention unintentional. "But this is a different world we are in where logic doesn't make sense. Magic exists apparently and using their powers, they managed to create a great way to make critical injuries such as that heal faster. It's quite a miracle there..."

"Indeed it is Jamie!" Pinkie smiled, surprising him again.

"Not again!" Jamie squealed, burying his face with his notebook. "Why?!"

"Don't be bother Jamie. You were just explaining about the healthcare of our world...unintentional, that's all." Twilight assured, patting him on the back.

"Yeah! Besides, I didn't even knew that." Ren added with a smile. "I mean, we've been here for a few times, but never learn much about how the hospital here in Equestria works."

"O-oh...Even after a while, you guys aren't bother by my lectures and such?" Jamie questioned nervously.

"Not all of us, but it's quite nice for someone like you to know so much about Equestria besides Twilight." Mason smiled. "I say you're quite unique in your own way, Jamie."

"T-thank you..." Jamie shyly said. Whatever, I still think of him as a book nerd.

"Well either way, that's good news at least." Kaede sighed in relief.

"Yeah! That means Jack won't be staying here that long!" Carrie giggled.

"But you know, being here reminds me of meeting Kaede in the hospital once she passed out from seeing talking ponies." Kodi chuckled, causing the red haired girl to blush in embarrassment.

"H-hey! I told you guys that I got over that! It's not every day you see talking ponies with wings, horns, and such!" Kaede retorted.

"True..." Ren snickered. "But still, it was kinda surprising really."

What the heck are they even talking about? This red haired chick waking up here on the hospital bed due to seeing talking ponies? Hmph! That sounds like more like a wimp move to me. I can even bet that the blue haired nerd felt surprised by it as well. Ha, pathetic.

"Ugh..." Huh? Now who said that? I looked over to my right to see Skittles on the hospital bed, only to have her right wing covered in a bandage. Wait, how the heck did I not noticed this. "What the?"

"Oh! Rainbow Dash! You're awake!" Fluttershy said in joy. "Thank goodness!"

"Yeah! Good thing you survived Dash! We all were worried about you." Ren added with a worried and concerned look. Uh hello? What about me?! I gotten hurt from the impact as well thanks to Skittles here!

"It's quite a miracle that you didn't die from the impact." Mason said with a small smile.

"Indeed!" Rarity agreed. "I can't imagine what might happen if you weren't so lucky to cushion the impact."

"The heck's that supposed to mean?!" I exclaimed angrily, causing everypony to turn to me, including Skittles , who widened her eyes in shock upon seeing me.

"W-what the?! Jack?! What the hay are you doing here?!" Skittles demanded, wincing a bit from her injured wing.

"I gotten slammed in the face by your stupid tricks! Thank you very much!" I exclaimed angrily, causing her to sheepishly smile.

"Heh heh...oops." Oops?! That's all you gotta say, you whiny timey little-

"Calm down you two." Doc said with a stern look. "Now's not the time for arguing. You two need your rest."

"But Doctor Horse?" Jamie called with a worried look. "Is Rainbow Dash gonna be alright?"

Hey! What about me?!

"Jamie raises a good question. How is she, doctor?" Twilight inquired. 

Seriously?! You just move on to Skittles?! What the heck?! Hmph! Some friends they turned out to be!

"She's going to be fine, along with her friend, Jack Yamaki, was it?" Doc asked, looking over two X-Ray pictures that shows my body and Dash's , which I snorted. "While seeing a human's body is quite different and hard to examine, but it was quite good to use our healing magic on him. So luckily, these two have friends like you who got them over here in a jiffy."

"Well that's good to hear." Mason sighed.

"Yeah! That's a relief." Carrie smiled happily.

"Huh..." Skittles muttered before crossing her hooves and asked "How long do I need to lie here? I've got things I need to do!"

"Like what?" Kodi questioned with a raised brow.

"You know! The normal things everyday! Practicing aerial tricks, head over and manage at the weather office, and such!" She replied.

"Well I'm sorry to say, but all depends on both of your recovery, but I'd say a few days minimum." Doc stated sternly, much to her shock. She grabbed both Fluttershy and Ren as she exclaimed "You guys have gotta get me out of here! I'm gonna climb the walls!"

Skittles fell flat on her head, feeling anguish that she has to stay here.

"Calm down, you'll be fine Dash. Don't worry, it's just a few days after all." Ren assured with a soft grin.

"Ren is right. You just need to relax." Fluttershy nodded in agreement. Skittles sighed before blowing a bit of her hair.

"Fine..."

"Ooh, wait!" Pinkie shouted. "She said that if she remained here long enough, she'll climb the walls! Just like a spider!" She turned to the Doc and asked "Did the crash somehow give both Dashy and Jacky super-duper spider powers?"

"Nnnno..." Doc replied, pushing her away slightly. "Nor did it give these two amazing healing powers.they need to stay in bed for a few days."

"And really Pinkie? Spider powers?" Mason questioned, dryly.

"I have to agree, that's illogical possible." Jamie pointed out.

"Yeah! Besides, that's not how you become a spider." Ren added. "And who do you think they are? Spider-man and Spider-mare?"

"It's not! Then how?" Pinkie asked excitedly, popping right in front of Ren, nearly causing him to yelp. He rubbed his head bashfully before he replied "Well in order for to have spider powers, you have to be bitten by a radioactive spider. But I don't think they exist here at all, that's just fiction after all."

"And don't get any ideas about that, Pinkie." Twilight gave her a stern glare, causing her to pout.

“And besides, seeing these two with powers will be the day I would give up on being a broker.” Rantaro said with a blank look on his face. 

“Shaddup!” I yelled, trying my best to lift myself up from the bed until the doctor stopped me.

“That is enough Mr. Yamaki!” Doc stated with a stern look. “I do not want you to hurt yourself more than you already are!”

“…Fine!” I scoffed, looking away from him. 

“Good answer, my boy.” Doc smiled. “Now I want you two to behave yourself and please don’t get yourselves more hurt. You two are only gonna be for, like I said, a few days. Otherwise, you could end staying here longer than we imagined.”

Who does he think I am? A little kid?

“Few days? Might as well be a few months, or a few years!” Oh will you shut up? It’s not that bad. Although, I can’t help but agree with her on that. It’s gonna be just frigging boring being here.

“It’s not so bad, Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy assured with a soft grin. “Being in the hospital isn’t all that bad.”

“Yeah, when I gotten myself a splinter, my mom took me here and the doctor help removed it from my finger, and gave me a lollipop.” Ren grinned. Yeah, except this isn’t a children’s hospital! You damn idiot!

“Although, hospital bills are quite expensive…” Jamie pointed out.

“I’m sure we can pay for it if we combined all of our bits together.” Mason assured. 

“That could be a good idea.” Kaede smiled. 

“I could share it with you…” Rantaro formed his casual smirk at them and said “If you all give me five hundred boners.”

“B-but we don’t have that kind of money.” Jamie stated, feeling surprised by that before groaning “And besides, even if we did…my father will forbid giving me half of his allowance to someone like you, Rantaro.” Rantaro gave him a deadpanned look, causing Jamie to wince upon realizing what he said. “N-not that I’m doubting because y-you’re a criminal! S-sorry!”

“Criminal? Nah, I don’t mind that crap.” Rantaro picked his ear a bit before smirking at them. “I get used to it. But I prefer to be called a ‘businessman’.”

“Well, can’t argue with logic like that.” Ren pointed out. “I mean, he buys and sells things for a living.”

“Yet he acts like he’s better than us.” Rarity scoffed.

“I don’t. I just have high confidence in myself.” Rantaro snickered, with that raccoon of his, Gizmo, coming out of his hat and nodding in agreement.

“Wow, he must be really close with Gizmo, huh?” Kodi said aloud.

“Yeah, they’re like best friends or something.” Ren shrugged.

“Well of course. We’ve been friends for over a long time.” Rantaro shrugged.

“Really?” Twilight asked incredulously.

“I could tell ya all a story or two about my somewhat…” Rantaro let out a snicker and a smirk. “Wicked past.”

“Are you lying to us?” Applejack asked with a raised brow.

“Wow, you’re not trusting me with that kind of talk. Heh, guess you guys don’t have great trusting issues with new people, do ya?” Rantaro questioned, which made them feel worried about that.

“It’s that we don’t trust you…” Fluttershy shook her head. “It’s just that…umm…”

“You’re a two-timing bastard of a broker.” I growled, causing everypony to turn over and glared at me. “What?! I’m telling the truth! After all, I’ve heard talk about from a couple of my pals that they lost a game of poker from this cheating con-man!”

“Really?” Kaede asked in surprise before turning to Rantaro and asked “So you play poker?”

“I’m also a gambler, alright? What? Is that troubling you all?” He questioned.

“It’s not that it troubles us, but-”

“Ugh, you’re wasting my time with this such talk. I rather go and mind my own business.” Rantaro took his phone and began taking his leave.

“What is up with that item in his hand?” Rarity questioned with a raised brow.

“It’s called a phone and it can people from afar. Something from our world.” Ren explained.

“Only question is why have a phone while we can’t find them.” Mason thought aloud, crossing his arms in thought.

“Who cares about him?” Skittles exclaimed. “What am I supposed to do in a place for a few days?!”

“Don’t know, don’t care.” I scoffed before realizing that a familiar pet of mine wasn’t with me. “W-wait! Where’s Jo Jo?!”

“Don’t worry, Fluttershy has him. Big brother found him your coat pockets and was quite lucky to survive the hit.” Carrie explained as the yellow pegasus came over and showed me that he was kept safe, snuggling in her mane.

“Oh…” I sighed in relief before saying “T-thanks i guess…”

“Anytime. But you should Mason for founding him while you two were unconscious.” Fluttershy smiled as I turned to Mason, who nodded and said “I couldn’t let your own pet die. I was worried for the both of you. Like they always say, never leave a man or animal behind.”

“W-well…thanks, dude.” I said, grinning at him. I let out a yawn and said “Well, I’m tired out. Now what?”

“Oh, so now you care?” I gave Skittles a death glare, which made glare back at me. 

“Relax Rainbow Dash.” Applejack assured. “I bet the chow in here is hoof-licking good.”

“And the hospital gowns, they…” The purple maned chick’s horn glowed as it emanated a purple glow, also getting onto the curtains. “Match the curtains!”

“Really? That’s all you got?” I asked irritably. “Even someone average can figure that out!”

Ren and Kaede sweat-dropped before rubbing their heads bashfully with sheepish smiles while Rarity scowled.

“Jack, please calm down.” Mason said sternly.

“Y-yes, arguing isn’t gonna solve anything. You and Rainbow Dash will do f-fine.” Jamie made a weak grin.

“Yeah! You two are gonna be roommates!” Pinkie bursted with excitement as we both looked at each other and scoffed. Like I would waste my time being friends with someone like her. 

“I don’t think they share the same ideas with you, Pinkie.” Kodi pointed out, noticing our distance glances.

“I’m sure they’re gonna get along soon, Kodiak.” Ren assured before we something moving past the door as we looked over, revealing to be a nurse pushing a cart full of…

“Books?” I questioned while Jamie smiled brightly upon them. 

“Wow! Look at that! I guess you two can enjoy your time reading some of these books.” I gave him a deadpanned look, seeing that I wasn’t interested into reading books. I rather read magazines with…umm…it’s best not to say it aloud.

“He’s right. Wait right here.” Twilight walked out of the room for a moment until she came back with two books in her hands. “Here, one for each of you.”

She floated the book to our laps, which made me grew irritated to read a book.

“Keep it. Not interested. I rather go to sleep.” I scoffed, glancing away from them before pushing the book away from me while Jamie felt shocked by that.

“W-what?” Jamie muttered.

“And what the hay is this?” Rainbow inquired in an irritable tone as she picked it up and read the title of the book. “’Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone’.”

“This is the first story in the series. I own all of them!” Twilight squealed in excitement, adding more irritation to me.

“Y-yes, I enjoyed reading them. I just finished reading them all in a month.” Jamie added, smiling over to see that chick talk about reading and junk.

“Doesn’t sound exciting to me.” I stated bluntly.

“For once, I agree with chubby here.” What did Skittles just called me?! “Thanks, but no thanks. I so don’t read. I’m a world class athlete. Reading’s for eggheads like you, Twilight and Jamie.”

Twilight gave her an irritated glare while Jamie glared at us like his personality completely changed.

“What?!” Jamie hissed.

“Heh. No, offense, but I am not reading. It’s undeniably, unquestionably, uncool.” Rainbow scoffed, not afraid of Jamie’s angry look. 

“Yeah, it doesn’t sound like fun for me. I rather stuffed my face with food.” I rolled my eyes, completely agreeing with Skittles. Everybody, except Jamie, started to laugh at us, much to our irritation.

“Are they serious? Who doesn’t like to read a bang-up tale from time to time?” Applejack chuckled.

“Why, a good book is almost as magnificent as silk pajamas on a Sunday morning, heh!” Rarity smiled.

“I know right? I enjoy reading too.” Kaede smiled. “I once read a romance book that made my heart felt so warm, it move me to tears!”

“Yeah! I even read mangas all the time, and I don’t find it a problem.” Ren grinned.

“I sometimes read books when I’m off-duty as a guard and read story books for Carrie when she goes to bed.” Mason added, causing Carrie to giggle.

“I never read a book before, but I like to read one, one day.” Kodi said, feeling more interested about it.

“And I don’t minding reading at all. I think it’s lovely.” Fluttershy agreed.

“See? Reading is for everypony, Rainbow Dash and Jack.” Twilight smiled.

“Yeah! I love reading, and my head isn’t even close to the shape of an egg!” Pinkie exclaimed, getting weird looks from us as she continued to blabber nonsense. “It’s more of the shape of an apple, or maybe an orange, but a big orange! More like a grapefruit really…”

“Who gives a crap?” I scoffed, slowing getting angry while everybody was surprised to hear. “Is reading gonna lead us back home? Possibly get me back to my home with my gang?”

“No silly! How can a book do that?” Pinkie laughed while the others looked at each other in concern.

“Umm…Jack?” Kaede asked.

“You frigging damn idiots…who gives a crap about being in a hospital? Who gives a crap about reading?! I don’t give a crap about anything!” Jack exclaimed.

“Jeez! Even after two weeks, he hasn’t calmed down?!” Kodi asked in shock.

“Look! I don’t give a crap about reading! I just want to get out of here!” I demanded until I was faced with an angry Jamie.

“You shut your mouth! How dare you disrespect books, you! Books are the source of knowledge and are great for reading, giving you hopes and dreams and imagination and yet you want to disrespect books?!” I flinched upon seeing the glare he was making at me. Damn, where did this guy come from? Since when did he have the guts to tell me that.

“Ha ha!” Skittles laughed. “Serves you right!”

“And don’t make me begin with you, Rainbow Dash!” Rainbow widened her eyes in fear upon seeing Jamie’s angry look. “I told you a few times to learn and respect books! But here you are, talking about reading being boring! How else are you gonna learn if you don’t like books!”

…What the hell was all that?! Everyone one of us were kept their mouths shut upon seeing his outrage expression.

“Wow…” Kodi muttered. 

“H-hey, take it easy Jamie.” Ren said, placing his hand on his shoulder. “You didn’t have to yell at them like that. Mason, I can handle, but seeing you like that…that was pretty shocking.”

Jamie dropped his angry glare and blushed in embarrassment of what just happened.

“I-I am so sorry! I-I didn’t mean to make things awkward!” Jamie exclaimed.

“No no no, it’s okay Jamie.” Twilight assured with a smile. “Just wow, I never knew you had it in you to say that. Then again, I do see you have an outburst since we first met each other. Though, I’m glad you’re defending books, but I think you went too far.”

“Way too far.” Kaede commented. 

“R-right…sorry for my outburst.” He apologized. “I told you, I don’t like people disrespecting stuff like that.”

“We know.” Twilight assured before turning to me and Skittles. “And I hope you two won’t hear a stern talk from him.

”S-Shut up!“ I scoffed before turning my head away. ”I’m just going to sleep.“

I shut my eyes, trying my best to go to sleep, possibly have a dream about something to eat. Ugh, I’m still hungry and I just had breakfast.

”Ugh…this human is so uncouth with his behavior.“ I heard that loon commenting about me, not that I care.

”Leave him be, Rarity. He’s just angry.“ Mason stated. ”Right now, I think its best if we took our leave. Just give them privacy and let them rest up for the rest of the day.“

“I guess you’re right.” Ren agreed. “Well guess we gotta go.”

“Oh wait! I’ll just leave this for them to eat.” I heard something being put down as I opened one eye and glanced over to see a paper plate filled with a sandwich rested on it. I glanced over to see that it was that red haired girl placed it there, Kaede, I think. “Just in case they get grouchy.”

“Hey!” Skittles yelled, highly offended by that. I formed a smirk at that rainbow horse, seeing how she felt when Kaede called her out like that. Oh wait...she called me out too!

"Well, anyway. Good luck you two." Ren bid us farewell while I tried my best to go to sleep, wanting time to already passed to escape this boredom. "We'll come back later and try to hang out and have some fun."

"Yeah! We'll be back you two!" I glanced over at the mutt, who smiled happily at the two of us.

"And don't worry Jack, I'll take care of Jo Jo while you rest up. Bye." Fluttershy added before they all took their leave until Twilight and Jamie peeked out of the door as the latter added "And I-I'm still sorry for my outburst you guys. But I really hope you enjoy reading books."

"Jamie's right. Besides, I think you'd like Daring, Rainbow Dash. She's a lot like you. Adventurous, fierce, and undeniably, unquestionably, unstoppable." Twilight smirked before they both closed the door, leaving us alone. Ugh, reading...who ever came up with that crap, screw them. I rather go to sleep for my sake! Oh well...at least I can some peace for god's sake.

"Pfft! Whatever!" She rolled her eyes in annoyance before turning to me and said "Now let's get something straight Jack! You better not do anything that could make me get off this bed, despite my injured wing, and knock you upside the head."

"Really? Same goes for me." I rolled my eyes before turning my head, not wanting to be in this conversation with her anymore. "Welp, I'm going to sleep. Night Skittles!"

"And stop calling me Skittles!" She exclaimed in anger.

"Really? I don't give two craps about that." I scoffed, trying my best to go to sleep. Oh well, it doesn't matter. I'm a heavy sleeper, so I bet I'm gonna be fine-

BOUNCE! BOUNCE! BOUNCE!

What the hell? I opened my eyes and glance over to see her bouncing a squeaky red ball onto the wall over and over again, much to my annoyance.

"Would you stop that?" I asked in a grouchy tone. "I'm trying to get some sleep here! And where the hell did you get that ball?!"

"Uhh...underneath my bed?" Skittles raised a brow with a shrug.

"Well keep it down!" I yelled before falling back on my pillow. Ugh, if my arm and leg wasn't hurt right now, I can pinned this chick real hard and see who's the boss here. Suddenly, I didn't hear the ball bounce again. Looks like she stopped doing that. Well that's a relief.

"Lunchtime!" Huh? I opened my eyes again to see a pink chubby nurse pony coming in pushing two sets of tray of food in a cart and handed one to each of us. I looked over the food on my stomach, which was some mashed up vegetables, a glass of apple juice, and a gelatin. Ugh, I forgot how much hospital food makes me feel about this damn place. Oh well, better late than never, I suppose. I grabbed the tray and stuffed my face with much food, which went noticed by a surprised Rainbow Dash. 

"What?" I asked, my mouth still stuffed with food.

"...Seriously, you eat like a bear." She commented bluntly. I gave her a smug look and replied "Well that's because I'm a fast eater. I won some many eating contests in my days."

"That explains so much..." And what the heck does that supposed to mean? She decided to ignore me and eat her, feeling bored. After she managed to eat her veggies and drank her juice, she finished eating up her gelatin, only from the cup which became stuck on her muzzle. She tried pulling it out, but it had no affect, which caused me to grin.

"What?" She asked irritably.

"Nothing. You're just cute when doing that." I laughed, causing her to grit her teeth.

"I. Am. Not. Cute." Rainbow stated through gritted teeth.

"Yeah sure, say what you will Skittles." I scoffed with a chuckle before forming a teasing grin. "And I gotta say, I can't believe that someone hot-headed as you gotten the boot with your wing getting broken."

Skittles blushed in embarrassment and said "S-shut up! It was just practiced! Besides, what's say to you? You gotten in the hurt, you big lump of fat!"

I narrowed my eyes at her and growled angrily. "I. Am. Not. Fat!"

"Oh really? Then why are as fat as a panda? Or maybe a grizzly bear? Because you're acting like one, right now." Rainbow snorted, causing me to glare angrily at her.

"Shaddup! At least I ain't some hot-headed rainbow colored horse that tried to get as many cider in her damn hands!" I scoffed, causing her to glare back at me.

"Well at least I'm not some fat, short-tempered, dumb biker that loves to punch people out of anger and such!" 

"What you say?!"

"You heard what I say!"

"Why don't you put your mane where your mouth is, Skittles!"

"Why not you shut your chubby muzzle, fatty!"

"Don't call me fatty! I'm husky!"

"Alright, how about stupid?!"

"No! You're stupid!"

"Buck you!"

"Screw you!"

"Buck! You!"

"Screw! You!"

We both growled at each other angrily until we heard the door burst opened, revealing the doc from before.

"What is going on in here? I can hear all this shouting coming from my office!" Doc shouted with a stern look.

"He/She started it!" We both shouted, pointing at each other. 

"Ugh..." He rubbed his head in annoyance before saying "Look, you two need to stop arguing with each other. You're making my patients feel uncomfortable with each other, so please stop yelling."

"B-but-"

"No buts! I demand it or else I'll extend both of your stays here!" Grrr!...this cheeky bastard of a doctor!

"....Fine..." I muttered.

"Whatever...wasn't my fault." Wanna bet Skittles?

"Good answer. Now excuse me, I have go and check up on the other patients." With that, he closed the door while we glared at each other.

"Ugh...thanks a lot fat biscuit." Rainbow scoffed.

"Shaddup!" I growled before turning my head around as I said "Look, I'm just gonna go to sleep. Night Skittles!"

I heard her snorting in a huff of me still calling her that as she muttered "Fine...night."

Hmph! I don't even know why I even bother staying in the hospital with her. All I just want is peace and quiet, that's all.



The Next Day
"As Daring Do trekked through the tropical jungle, the wet heat sapped her energy and slowed her every step." 

Ugh...what now? I opened my eyes and turn to something that I thought I would see her do. She was reading...a book. 

"If only she could escape this oppressive atmosphere and fly up into the cool blue sky. But her crash landing in the jungle had injured her wing and she was grounded for a few days. Few days...it might as well be a few months, or a few years!" Skittles  widened her eyes in surprise of hearing and I think I know why. That was the exact same line she said yesterday. Heh heh, looks like she's enjoying herself.

"Huh. I'm right there with you sister." She grinned, not noticing I was awake and I hid a big grin on my face as she continued reading her little book.

"The mosquitoes buzzed loudly. The macaws cried from the high trees. Yet all of these distracting noises were not enough to cover the sound of the predators following her every step." She said, smiling happily with joy on reading that book. "Safely landing on the other side, Daring finally allowed herself a moment to breathe. She turned around to find herself face to face with the long lost temple that she had sough tirelessly for over sixty days and nights!"

Alright, guess it's time for to speak up from all this.

"So...enjoying the book?" Skittles frozed in fear before slowly turning around with widened eyes straight towards me as I made a teasing grin at him.

"....How long were you awake?" She asked slowly.

"Enough to hear all that crap." I said before barking up a laugh. "But man, you sure are enjoying that thing and after you said reading was for eggheads!"

"S-shut up, alright?!" Skittles exclaimed, feeling embarrassed of that. "Look, I hate to admit it to myself, even to you, and would really hate to admit it to my friends, but...I love this story! I, I....I love reading!" She slowly widened her eyes before realizing something. "I'm an egghead."

I started laughing again at her embarrassment before saying "You sure are Skittles!"

"This is not funny! I love reading fatty! Don't you get it?!" She glared daggers at me before forming a worried look. "The others will soon find out that I'm an egghead and would laugh at me."

"Oh please, they laughed at you yesterday for telling them that reading was for 'eggheads' and gotten the blue haired nerd angry over something minor such as that." I scoffed, grinning at her.

"But you don't get it! I called anypony who reads books an 'egghead', so if anypony found out about it, then I'll be the laughing stock for liking books!" She cried out.

I stopped grinning before snorting "Oh please, one little book ain't gonna be the end of the world."

"But it is for me!" Skittles retorted, causing me to use my right arm to face-palm myself.

"Look, I was watching and hearing you from everything you just said and I wasn't bug one bit about it." I stated. 

"Yet you were laughing at me for that." Skittles scoffed.

"Okay, there was that. But then again, you don't have to be afraid of admitting your own faults and what you like." I said with a serious look before snorting "Besides, they won't mind. That blue haired nerd likes to read books and they don't mind that, even the purple unicorn chick likes reading books. If you keep hiding yourself without telling them the truth, then you'll start to feel guilty about that."

"W-well..." Skittles felt unsure of it, causing me to sigh as I said "How about this? I'll keep your little secret from them and won't tell them unless you tell them yourself."

"R-really?" She asked in surprise and joy. "You really do that for somepony like me?"

"When a man makes a promise, he keeps it. That's what my old man tells me whenever I need his advice." I shrugged before letting out a yawn. "Well, I'm still pooped out. Wake me up when we get out of this damn hospital."

Before I could close my eyes, I heard her say something.

"Thank you Jack..." Did...she just thank me? Well, that's a hell of surprise. Hmph! Finally getting some respect from her at least. But then again, I could tease her more and eavesdropped on her reading that book of hers. I rather read magazines with beautiful babes in it. 

"The smell of decay and danger hit Daring Do as she peered into the dimly-lit entrance of the ancient temple." And here we go again. Oh ho! This is gonna be fun!

"Hi Rainbow Dash! Jack!" What the heck?! I lifted my head up the moment Skittles immediately hid her book behind her pillow as we looked over to see Ren, Fluttershy, Twilight, Kodi, and Jamie walking in.

"Uh, heh, guys..." Rainbow chuckled nervously at them.

"Now what is it? What do ya want?" I asked in a grouchy tone.

"W-we came by to check up on ya guys. We did made a promise, right?" Jamie reminded us. Oh right, they did say something like that yesterday. "So how were you guys?"  

"Fine." We both said quickly before realizing that we said it at the same time.

"Heh heh, sounds to me you guys were probably having a good time." Ren chuckled, causing me to scoff at him. Like he knows what happened yesterday.

"So anyway, we thought we'd come and cheer you guys up." Fluttershy smiled.

"We brought your favorite board game, Rainbow Dash." Twilight stated as she pointed to Jamie holding onto it.

"I never understood the rules of the games, but I just wanna not be left out." Jamie added.

"Well I can gladly play it with them. It's like that Battleship game back home." Ren shrugged with a grin.

"Really? You know how to play?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Well no, but board games such as this are a gamer's second favorite game of all times. I played any type of board games with some of my friends back home, so even if its different, I know how to play." Ren explained.

"Ooh..." Kodi nodded, fully understanding it.

"Well I-I never played one before." Jamie sighed, glancing away sadly.

"Don't worry Jamie, we can teach ya." Ren assured.

"He's right. Me, Twilight, and Rainbow Dash played this game many times, so we know this by the rules." Fluttershy chuckled.

"O-oh...thank you." Man, that guy is such a nerd and a coward.

"Count me out. I rather get some sleep." I scoffed.

"Are you sure Jack? We don't wanna make you feel left out out of it." Ren said in worried.

"I say what I say, now shaddup." Ugh, can't this guy here get some peace at least. 

"Well alright, come on Rainbow Dash. Let's play. We know how much you like to win!" Fluttershy giggled as Jamie settled the board game down on her bed while Skittles did her best to hide it underneath her blanket without letting them know. 

"You go first, Rainbow Dash." Twilight offered. 

"No no, you go first." Skittles offered, confusing them a bit. 

"Since when did Rainbow Dash ever allowed someone to go first?" I heard the mutt whispered to Ren.

"Since never." Ren shrugged, unable to figure out why.

"Umm...Alright, uh..." Twilight looks down on her side of the board and said "Cloud three."

"Aw, shucks, you...rained on my cumulus, heh." Rainbow picked up one of the pieces with a nervous grin before saying "Go again!"

"Um....let's try sky five?" Ren suggested.

"Whoa, you found my seagull!" Skittles picked up a piece that almost looks like a seagull before throwing it into the box. 

"Uh...Cloud two?" Fluttershy guessed, feeling confused by Skittles behavior.

"You zapped my weather pony!" Skittles shouted, picking up one of her pieces and throwing it into the box. "Uh-huh, you stung my bumblebee. Oh, my thunderbolt! Aw, and that's my last cloud. You found it. Guess you guys win, I lose."

She picked up the board and immediately stuffed it back in the box, confusing and bewildering the gang.

"But Rainbow Dash, you didn't even get a turn." Jamie pointed out.

"You win some, you lose some." Rainbow shrugged, which caused them to raise brows.

"But Dash, you never like losing." Kodi pointed out.

"Yeah. Since when do you ever feel satisfied from a lost?" Ren agreed.

"I'm afraid they have a point, Rainbow." Jamie added. "I don't think I ever hear someone like you to say that."

"And I don't think you've ever lost a game of-" Before the purple unicorn chick could finish, Skittles let out a yawn and said "Thanks for coming!"

"But yesterday you were desperate for things to do!" Jamie pointed out.

"Do?" Skittles asked defensively before handing the game back to Jamie. "Who said anything about Daring Do? I told you I'm not interested in reading." She yawned again before turning off the lights. "It's nap for us! Right Jack?"

I glanced over to her, seeing the begged look she was giving me. Well I made a promise to her, so I see why not.

"Yeah...Besides, I'm starving." I said before noticing the sandwich Kaede left for us to enjoy. Guess I forgot about all that. I grabbed the sandwich and stuffed one into my mouth, enjoying myself with it. Heh, guess I'll give that girl credit. She knows how to make some good sandwiches.

"Glad we could...cheer you both up?" Fluttershy replied, feeling weirded out by Skittles' behavior. Twilight, Ren, Kodi, and Jamie looked at each other in concern and suspicion, wondering why she's acting so weird. Twilight furrowed her brows and looked at Skittles, who tried her best to pretend that she's asleep, but when the purple chick moved in closer, she managed to fool her by making loud snoring noises.

"Alright then..." Twilight responded as the gang began to take their leave.

"We'll see you guys later, I guess." Ren sighed before closing the door and taking their leave. The moment they left, Skittles sighed in relief before turning to me with a smile and said "Thanks for the save, Jack."

"Whatever, like I said, I made a promise to keep your secret until you tell the others your little secret." I said, looking away before swallowing my food and patting my gut. "Ahh...feels so good eating something besides hospital food."

"Dang, you really like eating food." She commented, blinking in surprise.

"What you expect? Eating satisfies me." I grinned. "Now excuse me, I rather get some sleep." I used my right hand to scratch my butt a little, before covering myself in a blanket and went to sleep. Hopefully, I can rest up to avoid another boring day.

"Well still, thanks for backing me up." I let out a snort, not bothering to answer her before blacking out. Ugh, hopefully that I can get some sleep.....



....What is this?

I was back in my family's restaurant, or the gang's hideout where we always hung out and enjoy ourselves. Normally, we chat, have a drink off, or have some competition, but this was different.

"Have you heard about the boss's son? Apparently he's immune to the sickness." One of the bikers whispered while I sat down on the table, drinking some cider and ignoring what they were saying.

"Yeah! He was called in by some of those FBI agents and was explained about some offer, but he refused to do whatever they told him to accept."

"You kidding? It's all over in the news. Apparently, someone leaked the info about that to the world, saying a way that nine others were gonna be the only hope for our world, including him."

"Can you believe it? The heir to the Yamaki Gang refusing an offer like that? I mean, what's up with that?"

"Maybe he's too scared to even admit it?"

"Better not say that aloud, you know how he is with the name calling."

...I want to forget this memory. Ugh, I'm just sick of it. I don't know why I bother wanting to hear this. Me? Accept some craze offer about going along somewhere safe with those 8 others who are immune to it. No thanks! I'm not scared!...I...I'm...just...I can't leave behind the gang...Why did this happen?



"Hello, Rainbow Dash! Jacky!" W-what the?! I immediately woke up and looked over to see Pinkie, Rarity, Applejack, Kaede, Mason, and Carrie coming in. Oh great, now what do they want?

"How's our patients doing today?" Rarity asked curiously.

"What you think, ya loon?" I scoffed, causing her to grumble a bit.

"I guess you still have the same attitude. Heh heh..." Kaede rubbed her cheek in embarrassment.

"Ah Jack, good to see ya awake." Mason smiled. "We just thought coming over for a little visit. By the way, Jo Jo is feeling fine in Fluttershy's care, just to let you know."

"That's great to hear." I snorted, wanting to go back to sleep. Soon, I noticed Skittles was sweating nervously, probably to hide the book away from them.

"Ugh, we need to get some fresh air in here." Applejack said, noticing Skittles' sweat. "You're looking sweatier than a pig wrangler on a summer's day."

"What does that mean, big brother?" Carrie asked curiously, who only shrugged in response.

"Uh, well, guys, thanks for visiting, but-" Before Skittles herself could finish, another nurse with a yellow coat and blue mane and tail came in, pushing a cart with our food in it.

"Okay, now, dinner time for Rainbow Dash and Jack Yamaki." The nurse stated before pushing it between our beds and taking her leave.

"Dinner time? Has the day already been passed already?" I said aloud.

"You haven't noticed?" Kaede asked curiously. 

"No, that's why I asked." I growled, causing her to back away a little with a nervous smile and a sweat-drop.

"W-well, yeah. It's 7:00 P.M. We just came for a quick visit to see you two and wondered if you two were feeling better." Actually, now that you mention it...

"Well my arm and leg are starting to feel better, actually." I said, wriggling them a bit. Sure, it still sore a bit, but at least they're healing faster than I expected.

"Whoa! Really?" Carrie asked in amazement. "The doctors weren't kidding when they say that their medicine and healing magic can make the wounds disappear in a short while."

"Yeah." Mason nodded in agreement.

"Well anyway, we gotta eat! Right Jack?" Oh great, now Skittles need my help once more, huh? Ugh, fine.

"...Yeah." I scoffed before using my right arm to grab my tray and began scarfing it down, surprising most of them. "What? I'm hungry! So sue me!"

"Right..." Rarity looked away with a disgusted look before turning to Skittles and said "Well now, don't mind us, Rainbow Dash."

Wow. Really. You just gonna pretend I don't exist? That's fine by me then.

"Yeah, just go ahead and eat up." Applejack added.

"Yeah, go on. We won't disturb ya." Kaede smiled while the others looked on, watching and waiting for her to eat up.

"Really?" I asked aloud. "Don't you think that's too creepy to watch someone to eat?"

"Jack is right. I rather eat alone." Skittles offered with a weak grin.

"Oh we won't bother you." Kaede assured.

"Yeah! What's creepy is someone watching you in your sleep." Pinkie giggled, causing some of us to raise brows at her. What in the world in this chick talking about? Skittles let out a gulp before eating up all her food in a gulp and started eating her food like a baby, making the others feel uncomfortable and disgusted by this.

"Uh, on second thought..." Rarity pushed Pinkie away while the others began leaving. 

"Uh, we'll see you tomorrow, Rainbow Dash and Jacky, aheh..." Pinkie said with a nervous grin as Skittles waved goodbye to them, still having some food on her mouth. Before they could leave, Mason came over and asked "What's up with Rainbow Dash? She's...acting weird. Well weirder than before."

"Sorry, can't say." I shrugged before covering myself with a blanket. "Night."

"You really like sleeping a lot, do ya? It's not a good cause of your health, you know." Mason pointed out.

"Yeah, well your face isn't a good cause of your health." I snorted, ignoring the blank look he was giving me, including Skittles herself.

"...Sadly, that wasn't even a good insult."

"Shut it Skittles!" I growled.

"Whatever, well see ya I guess." With that, Mason walked out of the room. Once the coast was clear, she spat out her food onto the ground and took out her book.

"You know, you can say it to them. They won't mind, not that they even care." I rolled my eyes while Skittles snorted and said "Like I said, I can't! They'll just-"

"Look! I don't give a damn! Now you need to stop cowering like a fool and tell them the truth! If you don't, then I'll tell them myself!" I exclaimed, causing her to glare daggers at me.

"You. Wouldn't. Dare." She said through gritted teeth.

"Oh, I would." I replied, glaring at her before turning my head away while covering myself with the blanket and said "Now excuse me, I rather go to sleep."

"...Fine. Do what you want." She said, but I felt as though I hurt her feelings. Hmph! Well it's her fault that she won't admit it. Though...maybe I went too harsh on her. Nah, why should I care?



W-what the hell? What's happening?! I see something statistical happening as I saw some vision of myself, having a machine on my head with my eyes closed like I was focusing. What's going on? Why is this happening?

"In all honesty, I don't give a crap what happens to me. Even if we forget, we'll fight for everyone. We'll fight...for our hope."

What? What am I saying? For everyone's hope? Who am I even referring to? Why can't...I...re...mem...ber....




"Ugh!" I said, sweating nervously before looking over around my surroundings. I don't get it. What the hell happened? Why did I say all that? I don't understand any of this at all. Ugh, what's up with these dreams?

"Mr. Yamaki?" Huh? Oh hey, it's him. I saw the doctor entering our room with a curious look on his face. "Is everything alright? I heard a sound coming in here."

"N-nothing doc. I'm fine." I scoffed, not interested to tell him what I witnessed.

"I see. Oh well, it doesn't matter because I have some good news for you and Rainbow Dash." I raised a brow at him, wondering what's this 'good news' he's got for us. "Rainbow Dash?"

I glanced over and saw she was still reading that book underneath the covers with a lantern in there. Wait a minute, where the hell did she even get that? 

"Rainbow Dash!" The doc called, gaining her attention as she immediately looked out of her blanket and saw us. 

"O-oh! Good evening-"

"Morning." What? Already?! Huh, time really do fly when you sleep. Then again, this is me we're talking here.

"...Morning. Doc." Skittles chuckled sheepishly.

"Have you been up all night?" The doc questioned with a raised brow, looking at the lantern on her bed before she took it away from him.

"Uh, of course not." She opened it, releasing the fireflies out of them. How did she even get those fireflies in the hospital? Seriously, what more stuff does this hospital even have?

"Well I'll be quick with the both of ya. Congratulations, Rainbow Dash and Jack Yamaki, we're checking you both out of the hospital." I gawked upon hearing that. Is he frigging serious?!

"Are you frigging serious?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"What? Later today?" Skittles  asked, biting on her hoof in fear.

"No. Right now!" Doc grinned.

"Right now?!" She gasped. "Right now right now?"

"Right now right now." 

"Well that's a relief." I sighed as the nurses raced over and immediately handed me my clothes after taking off my casts off and I was surprised to see my left arm and right leg are feeling so much better than usual. I decided to take off my night gown and put back my regular clothes before noticing the others were watching me. "Hey! Can't a man like me have his privacy?!"

"O-oh! Sorry Mr. Yamaki!" Doc chuckled nervously before he covered my side of the room with the curtains as I began taking off my night gown and putting back my regular biker clothes. Ahh, feels good...

Hm? What the? What the hell is happening back there? It sounds like somebody's putting up a fight. As soon as I came out of the curtains, I saw one of the nurses pushing a struggling Skittles on a wheelchair.

"W-wait! But I don't feel better!" She argued, glancing back at her bed with a frightened and worried look.

"Now take it easy you two. Remember to stay off that wing for a week." The doc stated, ignoring Skittles struggle. "And same goes to you Mr. Yamaki. Try not to sprain your arm and leg for a week as well."

"Yeah yeah whatever." I let out a yawn before walking out of the place before exiting out of the place with the nurse pushing Skittles outside, leaving the wheelchair with her out there. Hmph! Guess they just don't care about property.

I stretched my back a little with a tooth-eating grin on my face. "Ah ha ha ha! Feeling good as new!"

"Not for me!" Skittles exclaimed in misery,. "How will I ever find out what happens to Daring Do?!"

"What do ya mean? Didn't ya finished the book?" I questioned.

"No!" She buried her face through her hooves before explaining "I was so close to the end! I was at the part where she's get herself into a tomb, her body immobilized, with snakes, spiders, booby traps! Ugh! Why must it end?!"

"Tch! Whatever. You can just go the library and pick a book there." I scoffed, causing her to wail more.

"No! I can't! If Twilight and Jamie finds out that I love reading books then they'll find out that I'm an egghead!" She exclaimed, causing me to growl angrily before yelling "Well if you stop wailing like a goddamn baby, then maybe you can go and tell them!"

"I won't!" She snorted, not wanting to do it.

"Stop being such a coward and tell them yourself! You can't always hide this from them!"

"Well sorry, but I can't! I need to find out what happens or else-" She stopped herself before forming a smirk.

"Oh god, what now?" I questioned.

"Just you wait Jack Yamaki. I got a plan to get it." Skittles rubbed her hooves together with a mischievous smirk on her face.

"Well do what you want. I'm gonna go and get some rest. See ya." I scoffed before taking my leave. "See ya later, I suppose. And good luck on whatever you're planning."

"Yeah yeah, see ya I guess." Skittles chuckled in a devilish way before entering back into the hospital. I shrugged before walking back to that home-ship place. I'm gonna go and eat some grub to rest up at least....Actually, first...

"Aah!" Huh? I turned around to see Skittles getting kicked out of the hospital by one of the nurses. "Jerks!"

"So...plan failed, eh?" I asked with a smirk. She glared at me angrily before muttering "S-shut up Jack!"

"Look, just ask those two nerds back at their library and get the damn book from them?" I suggested.

"No! If they do, then that means they'll find out that I'm an egghead!" She exclaimed in anger and worried. I let out a sigh before saying "Look, just because you're gonna tell them something that you now like isn't gonna be disappointing. You just gotta man up and just spill the beans to them. I don't give a damn if they mock me, they'll soon accept me and learn to admire it. They'll learn to admire you. Besides, they laughed at you because you dislike books, they'll be proud of ya if you learn to read books."

"...I-I don't know." Skittles muttered, unsure about that.

"Look, just take my advice. I'll be on my way." With that, I began to take my leave and head out to mind my own business, heading over to my destination and it's not the home-ship.

"Hey! Where do you think you're going?!" Skittles demanded.

"Minding my own business, that's all." I replied before taking my leave. Hopefully, Skittles won't do anything too crazy and stupid like I would do....Ah, who am I kidding? She is gonna do something too crazy and stupid. I always do crazy and stupid things since I was a young boy.



I can't believe I'm going here in this place, but this is for Rainbow's sake. I knocked on the door, only for a small purple dragon to answer it.

"Oh hey, you're that Jack guy, right?" Spike asked with a smile.

"Yeah, that's me. Where's that blue haired nerd and the purple chick friend of yours? I need to tell them something." I said with a serious look before entering the place.

"Well yeah. They're just finishing up with some research, that's all." Spike answered with a raised brow of confusion. "Why do you meet them?"

"I just wanna tell them something, that's all." I replied, not eager to share it with him. "So where the hell are they?"

"Huh? W-what's up with all this ruckus?" Looks like my question was answered. I turned over to see Twilight and Jamie coming out of the kitchen with books in their hands until they noticed me. "O-oh! Jack!" Jamie felt surprised to me as he continued "Y-you're out  of the hospital already? Looks like the doctor's healing magic really did help in a short while."

"Felt like an entire day pass, alright?" I scoffed before crossing my arms. "Anyway, I just wanna see ya two in need."

"You...want us to see us?" Twilight questioned. "Why?"

"Just for Skittles' sake before she might do something more crazy than I would do." 

I heard a chortle before turning to Spike, who was trying his best not to laugh. "S-Skittles? Are you talking about Rainbow Dash?"

"Who do ya expect with rainbow colored mane?" I asked with a growl before turning to the nerds and asked "Now listen, there's something I need to tell ya guys about Skittles."

"What about Rainbow Dash? Is there something wrong with her?" Jamie asked in worried. "O-oh! Is she still in the hospital?"

"Nah, she's out of there. Look, I just wanna tell ya about about her little secret while we stayed in the hospital." I grinned. "See..."

I stopped myself, realizing that I couldn't say anything else. I don't know why, but I felt hesitation. I didn't know why until I remember Skittles' promise with her. I made a promise and like my old man said, never break a promise. I made a direct promise to her and I can't let her down.

"N-Nevermind..." I sighed, confusing them a bit.

"What? Didn't you just say that there was a secret she had during both of your stay at the hospital? Twilight questioned. 

"Yeah, what made you change your mind?" Jamie asked in concern.

"I said none of your damn business!" I yelled angrily, frightening him.

"S-Sorry!" He squealed in fear.

"Look, I change my mind. Look, I'm gone. Sorry for wasting your time or whatnot." I rolled my eyes before taking my leave.

"Umm...bye, I guess?" Twilight waved goodbye before I slammed the door closed as I began to leave. What's the point now? I made a promise to Skittles and I can't break it. Ugh, and here I was, so ready to tell them the truth and look what happened. Great, guess I'll just keep her secret until she's ready to tell them the truth. Whatever, I'm just gonna go over and find my pet Guinea Pig, Jo Jo.



Later
KNOCK-KNOCK!

Well it was quite easy to find her home since I've been before. I was in front of Fluttershy's cottage, which was outside of town. As soon as I knocked on the door, a familiar orange haired boy answered the door.

"Oh hey Jack! You're back already?" Ren asked with a slight smile. 

"Yeah yeah, I get it. You're surprised to see me, but right now, I came here to see that girlfriend of yours to get back Jo Jo." I demanded.

"Well Fluttershy's around the back with Kodiak. You can over there and see for yourself." Ren explained.

"Thanks..." I sighed before asking "So what exactly are you doing here? What? Sleeping with your girlfriend?"

"No!" Ren exclaimed, feeling embarrassed by that. "O-Of course not! I was here for some lessons about love, that's all!"

"Lessons about...love?" What in the world is this dope talking about now?

"Yeah, you see, at first, I never understood about how to get a girlfriend or any of the signs on knowing if a girl likes you." Ren explained. "But ever since before you, Rantaro, and Jamie came, Fluttershy and I shared our kiss and it made me realize that she developed feelings on me because of my personality and encouragement, so she and I decided to start our relationship while she teaches me about romance."

...No comment about this. How dimwitted is this kid? Ugh, whatever. Not even interested.

"Whatever. I'm out." I scoffed before heading over to the back, encountering some small critters.

"Umm...see ya Jack! I'll catch ya later back at the home-ship." Whatever, I have not time with him. Soon, I arrived to the backyard before becoming surprised to see how wide it was and seeing how looked almost like a sanctuary. Jesus, just how did she managed to make all this?

"Oh, hello there Jack." Huh? I turned around to see Fluttershy walking over with a smile on her face while the mutt that Ren always like to hang out was with her as well. "I wasn't expecting to see you coming out of the hospital so soon already. Is Rainbow Dash out of there too?"

"Yeah, same time as me." I shrugged in a nonchalant way before saying "Look, I came here for Jo Jo. Have you seen him?"

"Oh, he's over by with the small critters. I was planning on feeding him some food." Fluttershy smiled.

"Yeah yeah, whatever." I scoffed harshly before asking "Just hurry up. I'll wait."

"O-Okay!" She nodded before flying over to this small sanctuary she said that she kept him there. 

"So how it's going? Is Rainbow feeling alright? She sure acted weird, huh?" Kodi kept asking me questions, which started to annoy me.

"Look, stop asking me dumb questions, alright mutt?" I demanded, letting out a huff. "But yeah, Skittles is alright."

"Wow, you really like calling her that, do ya?" Kodi blinked in surprise as I stated "Well of course. I'll call her or anyone else whatever I feel like." 

"Well alright. But you know, you don't have to be so grouchy." I glared at the husky, who looked at me with a worried look. "I mean, you can't be rude to my friends whenever you feel so angry. I hear it from some of the others and I thought I should let you know."

Really? From the others? Why do I have the feeling the complaining mostly came from a certain purple haired loon? 

"Whatever, that just show how tough I am." I rolled my eyes before crossing my arms in a huff while glancing towards me with a confused look.

"Huh? Shows how tough you are? Do you really think so that could make you tough? I don't think even Jamie would approve of that." Kodi sighed, causing me to raise a brow at him.

"What? The blue haired nerd?" I asked with a raised brow.

"Yeah, he always dream about getting strong one day, and I know he will. So does my pal, Ren. He believes that he'll become the strongest guy, not physical like muscles and fat, but by spirit. That way, he can be able to stand up to himself and help defending us from bad guys." Kodi explained, which made feel interested in hear that. So that's what the brat wants huh? Just to be strong? Hmm...I wonder if I can help him by that. "Oh but don't worry, Ren suggested that Mason should help him whenever he needs it to make him strong."

What? That red scared wearing guy? Well he is quite strong, I'll admit. He even once blocked my own punch when I was too angry to even control myself.

"I see..." I said before began thinking about wanting to help out the scrawny nerd. Hmm, maybe I can help him.

"I'm back!" Well look who finally showed up. Fluttershy flew back in with Jo Jo in her hooves. "And I brought back Jo Jo with me, just like I promised."

"Thanks." I said as Jo Jo became excited to see me again before jumping into my hands and climbing inside my coat, tickling me a bit before climbing up to my shoulder and nuzzled my cheek. "Heh, good to see ya too bud and I'm glad to see you weren't in the hospital with me for a few days. Must've been lucky."

"Same way. He must've been either inside somewhere in your body to not get cushion by the impact or jump out of the way from your shirt when he noticed the moment Rainbow Dash was about to crash to you." Fluttershy suggested.

"Ugh...don't remind me." I sighed, not eager to remember that. I just want to bury it into the depths of my brain. "Anyway, I came what I wanted for. Tell Ren I said goodbye."

"Oh...okay." Fluttershy softly smiled before I took my leave.

"Yeah! We'll see ya later!" Kodi added before I began to head over back home to the home-ship. It's getting boring now and I want something to eat. I heard Jo Jo letting out a yawn, meaning that he has his stomach full and want to get some sleep. Whatever, I'm just tired as well. 



"Hey! I'm back!" I called, entering back into the home-ship and encountering Mason and his little sister of his.

"Oh hi Jack!" Carrie waved hello to me, her mouth stuffed with some toast and eggs.

"Carrie, remember it's rude to eat with food in your mouth." Mason said in a soft but stern tone of voice. 

Carrie let out a gulp and finished up her food before saying "Yes big brother! Sorry!"

"Thank you." He smiled before turning to me and said "Hey Jack, I see you came out of the hospital, eh?"  

"Well of course. I just came over from the library and from that yellow Pegasus' cottage to grab Jo Jo." I replied, crossing my arms.

"Huh? Why were you in the library?" Carrie asked curiously.

"I was there to just ask the blue haired nerd and that purple pony just a simple question before I changed my mind." I snorted before feeling my stomach rumbling. "By the way, I'm getting hungry. When can we eat?"

"I'm already done cooking breakfast since Ren, Kaede, and Jamie left." Mason answered.  "Rantaro took his just a little while later. Don't know where the heck did he go, but I wouldn't mind since he can't leave town due to being in this world."

"Whatever..." I scoffed. Still stuck on some colorful world with magical talking ponies. Why the hell are we even in here in the first place? I want to remember, but I just can't remember. And all those dreams I had...are they related to my memories because I clearly don't remember them. Ugh, who cares? I rather just get some sleep and think about it as some dream. Actually, speaking of which...

"Hey, can I ask a question?" I asked curiously.

"Hmm...I'm afraid that you can ask me later. Right now, I have to take Carrie to school." Mason said.

"Oh, so the little girl goes to school, eh?" I asked curiously.

"You didn't know that?" Mason asked incredulous. "Don't you even noticed her gone from last week, Monday through Friday?" 

"I don't bother looking over some stuff like that. I rather eat, sleep, and find something that doesn't bore me." I scoffed. "Besides, all I did back at the hospital was eat their grubby food and just slept a lot."

"For a biker, you sure don't though a lot of stuff, huh?." Carrie looked at me with an innocent look while I gave her a blank stare.

"...No one asked ya, alright? Besides, those things always help keep my body grow stronger." I scoffed.

"No...no it does not." Mason said dryly before saying "Look, I gotta go and take my sister. I'll see ya later."

"Yeah, yeah, whatever." I sighed before taking my leave and said "I'm just gonna have some breakfast."

"Knock yourself out, but please don't empty the fridge when we come back, please?" Mason said with a stern look before he and Carrie took their leave. Hmph! Who does he think he is. What? I don't eat all the food out of the fridge. Since frigging when? Oh, who cares? I'm hungry anyway.

I walked over to the counter and grabbed my breakfast, which consist of eggs, toast, pancakes, and orange juice. Great, no bacon or anything? I understand we're living in a world where no one here eats meat, but come on! Maybe that casino arcade can whip me up some bacon? Then again, maybe not. If one of those pony friends of theirs came into the home-ship and saw me eating meat, I can't imagine how they react. That yellow Pegasus accepted us easily due to being such a coward and too much of a nice girl, but the others aren't be easy to greet. Oh whatever, I don't care. What matters is just relaxing and eating this breakfast.

I sat down on the dining table before scarfing down the food in front of me and drinking the OJ juice in a second as I let out a loud burp of satisfaction. Feels good...

Soon, I settled the plate and glass cup into the sink the moment I saw Mason entering back into the home-ship.

"Ah, so you're back, eh?" I questioned with a slightly surprised look.

"Well, the school was ten minutes away, so of course I would come back that fast." Mason replied. "But anyway, guess it's just the two of us here today, huh?"

"Shouldn't you go and work on that damn farm of that Apple farmer pony?" I questioned.

"She said that I can have the day-off today, so there's nothing much." He sighed before softly smiling at me. "But overall, I guess I can meditate and relax for a moment."

"Sure, whatever floats your boat." I rolled my eyes, not appreciating his ways on relaxing. If I ever had a job and took the day off, I would do something awesome or sleep the whole day or so. 

"Oh, by the way, what was it you wanted to ask me?" 

"Huh?" I asked in a confused manner.

"You said that you wanted to ask me something, right? So what is it?" He reminded me, which I soon realized what he meant.

"Oh right. Anyway, I was wondering about the blue haired nerd..."

"You mean Jamie?" Mason questioned, which I nodded as he asked "What about him?"

"Well I learn from that talking mutt, Kodi, that he wants to be strong." I said, surprising Mason a bit. "Is that true? It makes sense after seeing him flinch many times."

Mason let out a heavy sigh before saying "Yes, it is true. Jamie lacks self-confidence in himself because of the times of his treatment from his father and others from time to time."

"From his own dad?" I asked, feeling surprised and irritated about that. So even his old man picked on him as well?

"Why yes. After all, he had no time raising his own children due to work businesses with the company." Mason nodded before continuing "But Jamie was bullied multiple times, developing fear of trusting others on whoever he meets and wishes to be strong, both physically and emotionally."

"I see, that explains a lot." I snorted, which confused Mason. "He keeps acting like a coward and can't fight back. But after seeing him get too angry over me and Skittles not wanting to read, I can see how he would react like that."

"Me too. I saw him get angry like that once before we all first met him." Mason crossed his arms in thought before saying "But even so, I still worry for him. I can't imagine what else could happened to him. It could lead him to possibly commit suicide or worse. I just...want to help him."

"Does he even know that?"

"No...I know about that, but he never asked about that. Sure I gave him a good talk about wanting to be strong and come to me whenever he feels to, but I bet he's still wondering thinking about it for a while." Mason shrugged. 

"I see." I stretched my left arm a bit, not wanting to strain it before saying "Well I can help toughen him up."

"What?" He questioned in confusion.

"Yeah! I'll toughen the nerd up. If he wants to get stronger, then I'm his guy!" I smirked, which caused Mason to raise a brow.

"You? Helping Jamie out?" Mason wondered before scoffing "I somehow highly doubt that."

"And what exactly does that supposed to mean?" I asked, narrowing my eyes at him.

"Sure, you may be strong, but I still sense that you're still immature." He pointed out, causing me to growl angrily at him.

"So?! Who gives a damn?! I can totally train him!" I exclaimed angrily.

"It's best if I help him out with his problems." Are you kidding me?! No way I'm gonna let that happen!"

"No! It should be me! I can toughen the brat up than you can!"

"Really? You want to bet?" He raised a brow while the two of us glared at each other until we heard the door opened, revealing a familiar orange haired boy and his talking dog.

"Hey guys, what's up?" He asked with a smile before noticing us glaring at each other. "Umm...is everything alright?"

"Ah, Ren, Kodiak, sorry if you have to see us arguing again." Mason said with an apologetic look. 

"Don't mind us, we're fine." Kodi assured before asking "So why are you guys fighting now?"

"To show which one of us can toughen up the nerd." I answered. 

"Nerd?" Ren questioned before realizing who I'm referring to. "Do you mean Jamie?"

"Exactly. I want to help him overcome his damn problems, but this guy here..." I pointed over to Mason with an angry and serious look on my face and said "But this guy thinks that I don't got the guts to help him out at all."

"Yes, that's what I mean. You're too immature, irresponsible, and despite your determination, you get too hot-headed and have a short fused." Mason stated, causing me to turn to him with a scowl.

"Oh? You really like insulting me, do ya brat?" I asked.

"I'm just stating the facts. I can tell when someone acts like this, you know. I've seen many people like you who gets too angry easily." Mason said, narrowing his eyes a bit before I got closer to his face with a smirk and said "Well alright then. Then why not we have a contest? Who ever wins it gets to train Jamie."

"Alright, it's a deal." Mason smirked. "So how should we do this?"

"Well we're gonna have an endurance contest. Someplace that has a sauna or something to prove how we can handle the heat." I suggested with a grin.

"Alright, deal then. I know the perfect place for that and the money for it." Mason smirked back at me.

"This is getting out of paw, Ren." Kodi whispered to his owner, who nodded in agreement.

"Yeah, it's best if we get out of here." Ren suggested as he and the mutt were about to leave until we stopped him.

"Hold it kid!" I called, causing Ren and Kodi to stop as I continued "We need a referee to watch over our little contest!"

"What? You mean me?" Ren asked in surprise.

"Well you aren't doing anything besides reading your mangas and such, so I see why not." Mason smiled before crossing his arms and said "Well Ren? What do you say?"

"I-I don't know you guys, don't you two think you're going way too far-"

"Who cares?! Let's get going now!" I demanded before grabbing the boy and lifting him up by the shoulders, much to his surprise.

"H-hey! Wait! Stop!" Ren begged before we exited out of the home-ship together, with the dog following after us with a sigh as he muttered "Oh boy, this can't be good..."

Ha, time for the bodyguard to see how strong I am in endurance competition! I'm a biker and us bikers are quite strong to face challenges such as these! Though, I wonder what kind of place he knows that owns a sauna?



Later
"This is it?" I asked curiously.

"The staff says so." Mason nodded as we were looking through the doorway that lead to the sauna. We were in some sort of spa place. I wasn't a fan of this kind of stuff, but hey, at least we can do our endurance contest here at least. 

"So are you guys gonna do your endurance contest by going through the sauna?" Ren asked curiously.

"Hell yeah we are! We're gonna fight through the heat and prove that once and for all that I'm more stronger than him!" I exclaimed.

"Well, I have endured heatwaves such as this, so this shouldn't be a problem." Mason smiled. "You ready?"

"It...Is...on!" I formed a cocky grin before we took off our clothes and wrapped our bodies with towels while Ren and Kodi felt worried about this.

"Hey you guys, I'm all for fun, but this sounds too dangerous." Ren said in concern. "I mean, you did come out of the hospital, right Jack?"

"I told ya that I'm fine now!" I exclaimed before muttering "As long as I don't sprain my arm and leg too hard."

"What?" He asked, not hearing what I said.

"Nothing." I scoffed before turning to Mason, who was wearing nothing but a white towel wrapped around his torso. "So, you ready?"

"Hold up." Mason replied before bending down to his clothes and allowed two little critters coming out, which I realized that they were squirrels. So what? He has pet squirrels? Just what is this dude? Mother nature or something crappy as that? 

"Here Ren, please watch over them." Mason handed the black and white squirrels to him, which he accepted. Speaking of which...

"Yeah, take mine as well." I said, allowing him to watch over Jo Jo as he sniffed at Ren's hands for a bit before crawling over to him.

"Okay. Just be careful, you two." Ren said, allowing the two small critters on top of his head.

"Yeah! We don't want you guys to get too steamy in there." Kodi added.

"Do not worry, I'll be fine." Mason assured before turning to me with a serious and confident look on his face. "So...are we ready?"

"I was ready since I already picked out this competition. Let's go now." I stated before we headed into the sauna and sat down before Mason turned the temperature up to go and endure this together. Ooh, it feels so hot in here that I can almost taste my sweat.

"Ugh...feeling the heat, Jack?" Mason taunted.

"In your frigging dreams, Mason!" I growled, clenching my fists and gritting my teeth in enduring this much heat. "I can do this!"

"Sure, say what you want!" Mason growled as we continued through the endurance competition. It felt like hours being here because we remained inside of the thing with struggling looks on our faces. What with Mason having a meditation pose with his legs crossed while I tried my best to hold it in.

"H-hey, Jack." Mason spoke up, feeling exhausted.

"What, idiot?" I asked, feeling exhausted as well.

"You know, you can just give up because I'm winning this thing."

"Why don't you shut the hell up and keep on focusing? I'm winning this damn thing, no matter what! Then you'll see who's the best!"

"Umm...hey guys?" We looked over through the sauna door window and saw Ren with a curious yet worried look. "You two should probably get out now. I know you two wanna prove that you're the strongest in this endurance contest, but don't you think you've done enough?"

"SHUT UP!" We both shouted in unison, causing the boy to take a step back from that. 

"Alright, fine, keep going then...I won't stop ya..." We heard him sigh as we continued on this competition. Okay, this is it! It's time for us to finish it! All the way to the max! 

One Hour Later
"Well, I'm almost dead. Should've thought this through."

"And this is what I get for playing stupid."  Yeah, you think? It was a whole hour and we found out that we were fully exhausted and too hot to move our bods as the staff saw this and attempted to cool us down in a nice cold bath, which was filled with ice cubes.

"Well I thought I never see you two do something like that." We glanced over at Ren and Kodiak, who were still holding onto our pets as they shook their heads in amusement. "But I'm glad you two didn't get any serious injuries."

"Yeah, but at least now its over." Mason sighed in relief before turning over to me and said "But you know, you're quite good in endurance, Jack Yamaki."

"Same to ya, Mason Hunter." I made a tooth-eating grin, causing the two boys to snicker at us.

"I agree with that." Mason nodded.

"So you guys are gonna be okay?" Kodi asked in worried. "I mean, with you taking all the heat, I say you two were pretty impressive."

"Well of course! Bikers like us are always tough to endure stuff like that." I chuckled. 

"Seems so." Mason smiled before stretching his arms. "Well, looks like we're finally cooled off. Wanna head home?"

"Sure. Next time, let's have another competition, Mason." I laughed before we exited out of the ice tub and stretched our backs a little.

"I await for it." Mason nodded before we began putting our clothes back on.

"Speaking of which, you two ended up in a tie." Ren pointed out. "So who's gonna train Jamie?"

Me and Mason looked at each other before laughing loudly, probably echoing all over the place before I replied "I say leave it to us."

"Yeah, I think that we can train him together as a team. We're both strong." Mason agreed as we finally managed to put on our clothes back on and gotten ready to leave this place as soon as Ren handed us back our pets, much to our joy. "Now come on, let's leave."

"I'll go and pay the clerks. Luckily, I have enough bits to pay for them." Ren smiled before we began to take our leave, placing some bits down on the counter for the clerk to handle it before we headed outside, seeing how it's past noon already as the sun was nearly closing in. 

"Man, already?" Kodi wondered. "Man, looks like we almost wasted the entire day."

"Well it was worth it, boy." Ren smiled, scratching him underneath his chin as he began wagging his tail excitedly. "At least we got to enjoy watching Mason and Jack endured through all that heat through the sauna. I think some of the stuff were watching you both go through it."

We blushed in embarrassment upon knowing that fact as I scoffed and looked away and Mason covering his mouth with his scarf, trying to hide his blush. Well, I don't know if that's embarrassing or great to have some admirers watching us have our endure competition.

"Get back here you slipper thief!" Huh? What the? We looked over to our left to see something racing out of there in a blur, but I knew where that blur since I felt it before.

"Skittles?" I said aloud. What's going on now? We saw several ponies that I identified as staff from the hospital and one of them looks like they were a patient or something.

"What in the world?" Mason questioned.

"Hey guys, what's happening?" Kodi asked in confusion.

"Only one way to find out! Come on!" Ren raced ahead towards them, which we did the same as we raced over towards where they were. The Golden Oaks Library as we saw a dangling Skittles hanging on top of the tree branches.

"Rainbow Dash, what in the world is going on? Why are you stealing slippers?" The doctor demanded. Soon, we started to hear barking before we turned around, only to widened our eyes to see that the one doing the barking was one of the patients.

"Hey, get back to the hospital!" A security guard pony demanded, which he did and ran back to the hospital.

"...Somebody should send that pony to an asylum." I commented loudly, which the gang couldn't help but nodded in agreement.

"What's all the ruckus?" We turned around to see Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Jamie, as well as Rantaro coming in with confused and irritated looks on their faces.

"Yeah, we could hear it all the way from the Carousel Boutique." Kaede added.

"Oh, I'd say it's more of a fracas than a ruckus." Pinkie stated.

"Who cares? What's going on here?" Mason demanded, glaring at Skittles.

"That's what I wanna know too." We turned over to see Twilight and Jamie poking their heads out of the windows and looking over at the dangling Skittles. "What's going on, Rainbow Dash?"

"And...why are you holding onto that Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone novel?" Jamie questioned with a raised brow.

Skittles felt hesitate to answer to that before glancing over to me as I crossed my arms and nodded. She let out a sigh, realizing that she can't hide it anymore.

"I'm an egghead..." She answered, confusing the others.

"Pardon?" Rarity asked, not following what she meant.

"She means that she loves reading books." I spoke up, trying to get it to their little heads.

"Rainbow Dash?...Reading?" Mason raised a brow before crossing his arms in a huff with a deadpan look on his face. "I find that hard to believe."

"Yeah, me too." Kodi nodded in agreement. "I mean, since when did she ever love reading?"

"Well that novel she's reading is one thing." Ren pointed out.

"It's all true." Skittles sighed before turning back to Jamie and Twilight. "See, I was trying to get back into the hospital to finish the last chapter of-"

"Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone!" Twilight finished Skittles' sentenced, seeing the novel in her hooves.

"You got me..." She sighed, lowering her head in an angry but shameful way.

"Wow, I knew the book was good, but I didn't know it could drive someone to petty thievery!" Jamie exclaimed in shock.

"Good? Try awesomely amazing!" Skittles smirked. "That book is undeniably, unquestionably, un-put-down-able! But then I had to put it down; I was sent home before I could finish it."

"Well, we're glad that's all this is about." Twilight replied with a soft smile.

"There's no reason to around causing a ruckus-"

"Fracas!" Pinkie Pie corrected, interrupting Kaede, sticking her tongue out and closing her eyes afterwards. 

"Uhh...causing a fracas..." Kaede said, correcting her previous statement. "Just because you like to read."

"Indeed. We're all glad that you're enjoying the book." Mason smiled. "As well as reading."

Looks like the hospital staff learned about this, they left in an angry way.

"Do ya feel better yet, Skittles?" I asked, causing her to give me a look. "No one cares what you said about what you called them."

"It was eggheads." Kodi stated.

"Right...Anyway, like I said before, everybody will soon admire your skills. No need and go stealing something." I said with crossed arms.

Skittles sighed before smiling at me and said "You're right..." She looked over to Twilight and Jamie and asked "Twilight! Jamie! I need to borrow that book right now!"

Jamie and Twilight chuckled before the latter said "Of course Rainbow Dash, come on in."

"Well everypony! Let's get us back to sleep then!" Applejack said, which everyone nodded.

"Great, just wasted ten minutes of my time listening to some stupid reason to steal some book from a hospital?" Rantaro questioned before sighing "Oh well, I have no interest in listening and staying here."

With that, he took his leave while everyone else headed back to their homes, leaving me, Mason, Ren, Kodiak, Twilight, Skittles, and Jamie behind. As Twilight, Jamie, and Skittles were about to head in, I stopped Jamie as I called "Hey Jamie!"

"Huh?" Jamie halted before turning to me and asked "Y-yes?"

"Can we talk for a sec?"

"Umm...yes?" Jamie nodded before turning to Twilight and Skittles. "You guys can go ahead with me. I'll stay and talk with my...friends."

"Alright. See ya Jamie." Twilight smiled before she and Skittles headed inside to get that book.

"So...what is it? Is there a problem?" Jamie asked in confusion.

Me and Mason looked at each other for a moment before nodded as we turned back to the blue haired nerd before I said "Me and Mason had a little talk and I learned that you want to be strong, do ya?"

"O-oh!" Jamie gasped, feeling nervous about that. "W-well...umm..."

"It's okay Jamie, just tell them like you told me back in Canterlot." Ren assured with a soft grin. "Just tell them and everything will be alright."

"....A-Alright." Jamie put his hand to his chest and said "I-it's true, I want to change. I'm just...sometimes sick of not standing up to myself. I...I want to be strong. That way...I don't always have to coward from other."

"...Well today's your lucky day!" I put my hand onto his shoulder, with a little force on it. "Me and Mason decided after a little contest that we'll train ya together."

"Yes. We'll help you with your problems." Mason smiled, causing Jamie to look at us in surprise before smiling in relief.

"T-thank you all! I really appreciate it! Thank you all!" Jamie cried out, feeling excited that we accepted his offer. "I promise that I'll repay you back!"

"Nah, I'm good." I scoffed before saying "Now, tomorrow! We'll start our training tomorrow!"

"Yes. We'll start with some jogging. Fifty laps around the park." Mason suggested, shocking Jamie.

"F-fifty laps?!" Jamie gaped at that. 

"Yep! Relax, Ren is gonna be with ya." I made a tooth-eating grin, while Ren became shocked on hearing that.

"Wait wait wait, you're dragging me into this?!" Ren exclaimed in shock.

"Yeah! Now stop your whining and get ready for some training!" I shouted.

"Uhh...can I accompany?" Kodi offered, raising his paw.

I turned to Mason and asked "Should we?"

"I see why not." Mason shrugged. "Just be prepared to our training tomorrow morning."

"W-well...I have some studying up and-"

"Who cares about all that crap? No need for studying tonight." I said, crossing my arms.

"W-wait! But I need to study up! It's a hobby of mine to read up some books late at night!" Jamie exclaimed in worried.

"Well too bad. You need some rest. You look like crap, by the way." I pointed out with a smirk while Jamie gave me a blank look.

"Indeed. You need your rest or else you'll get a fever." Mason added.

"...A-Alright." Jamie sighed.

"I still can't believe I'm being a part of this." Ren sighed before smiling a bit. "Although, I guess a workout can't be that bad."

"But they said that we're gonna do fifty laps around the park." Kodi reminded him, which caused Ren to feel bummed out about that.

"Oh...right...I forgot." Ren sighed.

"Woo-hoo!" We turned to see Skittles herself bursting right out of the door with a happy smile on her face and held another book in her arms. "I did it! I got it!"

"Oh, so you already checked out the book?" Jamie asked with a smile.

"You betcha! It's gonna be great! Now I can see the final chapter of Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire!" Skittles grinned.

"I see...well anyway, I should go and get Carrie from school. I'll catch ya all later." Mason took his leave, going over to that school to pick up his little sister.

"I'm impressed Rainbow Dash, maybe you'll finally enjoy reading." I grinned, causing everyone to feel surprise to what I said. "What? What I say?"

"Y-you said my name instead of calling me 'Skittles'." She pointed out, causing me to realize my error before I scoffed and looked away from her. 

"S-so?"

"...Thanks Jack." Rainbow smiled. "And it's okay. You can call me Skittles whenever you want, fatty." 

"Hey!" I yelled, feeling offended on what she called me before I realized what she was pulling. I soon formed a smirk on my face and said "Ooh, clever little pony, eh?"

"You know me." Rainbow chuckled. "So what were you guys talking about?"

"Oh, well..." Ren and I looked at each other, wondering if we should tell her or not. But by the looks of seeing that scared look the nerd was having, I say it's best not to tell her. "It's a secret. Sorry Skittles."

"Really?!" Skittles asked in disbelief. "Well can you tell me at least?"

"But Dash, it wouldn't be a secret if we told ya." Kodi chuckled.

"He's got a point." Ren nodded in agreement.

"And when a man makes a promise, he keeps it." I added with a tooth-eating grin. "And I'm sorry that I can't tell ya Skittles."

"Oh fine. I got no time with ya fatty. I gotta go and read this book." Skittles said, showing me the novel before giving me a sly smirk and said "And I think you should enjoy reading too. It might help ya increase your brain power with imagination."

"What's that supposed to mean?!" I demanded angrily.

"You know what I mean." Rainbow chuckled. 

"Well at first, you didn't like books at all! So don't give me excuse about that crap!"

"Well at least I'm enjoying reading than you! I'm now a huge fan of Daring Do!"

"Only for three days!"

"Yeah! I'm a great fan and I can't wait to read all her books!"

"If you haven't even read the books! Then that makes you just a fan!"

"Shut up!"

"Why don't you shut it Skittles?!"

"Same goes for you, fatty!"

As me and Dash continued arguing, I haven't noticed Ren, Jamie, and Kodi sweat-dropping at the scene.

"S-should we stop this?" Jamie questioned.

"Even if we did, they'll still fight with each other. You know how these two are." Ren pointed out.

"Yeah...let's go." Kodi suggested, which the two did as Jamie headed back inside of the library and the dog and Ren headed out. Don't mind us! This arguing is gonna take longer than we expected! Because I'm almost eager to teach Skittles a lesson about respect!
To Be Continued
> Chapter 46 - Happy Hearts And Hooves Day!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Come on! Keep running! Just one more lap!" 

"Speak...for....yourself..." Ren muttered, almost at the verge of dropping down to the ground, along with Jamie. 

"I...can't...take it...anymore..." Jamie complained.

"Come on! We're almost done! So keep it up!" Mason shouted.

"Yeah! Stop being wimps!" I yelled, causing them to moan even louder. Tch! Look at them! They're just a bunch of wimps right there! It was a week after me and Skittles got out of the hospital and so, like we promised, we began training the brats into shaping up. Ren was just an exception, it's Jamie. The boy wanted to be a man like me and Mason, so he's gonna get his wish. We were doing our 50 laps around the Ponyville Park, and after a few breaks, which all belonged to me due to my...husky weight, we were almost done with our fiftieth lap. Soon, we finally arrived back to the pond area as we finally finished it up.

"Yeah...whoo!" I cheered, trying my best to catch my breath before noticing my shirt was all sweaty. "Dammit, and I just got this wash."

"Well don't worry, I'll wash them again...eventually." Mason sighed as Ren, Jamie, and the little husky dog, Kodiak, came through the pond area, trying their best to catch their breath.

"Oh man...I never ran that much." Ren stated, letting out some coughs.

"I know. I...never...ran...this...much before..." Jamie whined.

"I think I'm dying..." Kodi grunted. "Man, why did I ever agreed to this?"

"I wonder that too." Ren agreed, wiping a sweat off his forehead.

"Well, I congratulate you guys on the workout. Same time tomorrow, got it?" Mason reminded us with a serious yet soft smile.

"Y-yes...still though, thank you." Jamie smiled softly, wearing only a plain white shirt that was underneath that black button shirt he always seen wearing. "I guess I really needed it, huh? I still can't t-thank you all for helping m-me out."

"Anytime. It's something called a vow of brotherhood." I made a tooth-eating grinned, causing Jamie to smile softly while Ren and Kodi smiled happily at that.

"Hmm...you said it Jack." Mason smirked. "But now that's over, I say that we got our distant ways for a while. I'm just gonna head back home and clean up while investigate the home-ship to search out more clues."

"You still bent on looking for clues? We already checked it out already, and there's nothing we can look for." I pointed out.

"I know, but I need to double check in case." Mason stated firmly.

"Mason's right. We're all in on this together to figure out why we're here in Equestria." Ren added with a serious look before smiling. "I know for sure that there's a clue somewhere in the home-ship, just waiting to be found."

"W-well...I guess it is a possibility..." Jamie muttered.

"Exactly." Mason agreed. "Now excuse me, I'm heading back to the home-ship. By the way, good work out gang. Remember, show up at the same time."

"Y-yes sir..." Ren and Jamie said in unison, feeling a bit disappointed that they have to continue this. With that, Mason was about to take his leave, leaving us behind as I scratched my butt a little. Ugh, it's just a scratch, so it's nothing unusual...for me that is.

"Mason darling!" Huh? Oh great, it's the fashion loon again. She immediately came running in here in a hurry, gaining Mason's attention. "Oh thank goodness that I finally found you!"

"Huh? Is there a problem, Rarity?" Mason asked curiously.

"Indeed! A real problem that dear Kaede and I are facing back at Carousel Boutique! Come along!" She used her horn as it started glowing blue, surrounding Mason in its blue aura and was dragged by her. 

"WHOOAA! Hey!" Mason yelled.

"Do not worry Mason! It shouldn't take long!" Rarity assured before they both were gone, leaving us in bewilderment.

"What the fudge was that all about?" I questioned.

"Don't know, but it must be a real urgent if Rarity needed Mason." Kodi commented.

"Tch! Whatever..." I scoffed, picking my ear a bit.

"Man, why am I being a part of this?" Ren wondered aloud.

"Because you always wanted to be a part of something to hang out with your friends, remember?" Kodi reminded him, causing Ren to sigh.

"Yeah, you're right about that..." 

"Oh quit being such a baby." I scoffed. "And they call you being a positive kid."

"Don't get me wrong, I am positive in stuff like this, but working out this much is quite hard..." Ren answered.

"W-well, even if this workout is too hard on us, I need this more than e-ever." Jamie said with a serious look. "I have to be strong to make myself reliable and able to defend myself and others."

"Yeah, yeah, I get it." I scratched my head bashfully in a huff. The reason why we're even training is because to help the blue nerd out. He states that he was always treated like a play toy and couldn't even defend himself over the years, so I'm gonna help this idiot get buff up or at least strong enough by both muscles and heart. "Anyway, we're done for today. Get out of here now. I wanna get some grub to eat."

"W-well still, thank you." Jamie bowed his head to me and began doing that over and over again. "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

"Okay! Shut up and get out of here!" I yelled, nearly getting some ponies to look over us in confusion.

"Y-yes sir!" Jamie flinched in fear before running off, grabbing his shirt and notebook from a nearby park bench before running back out of the park. "Bye!"

"See ya James!" Ren waved goodbye to him as he was off a distance. "Phew...man, I'm not sure if I'm ever gonna get used to this workout."

"Not all of us are." Kodi sighed. "But even if a week past, we're never get used to running around the place with fifty laps.

"Heh, that's because you guys are shrimps." I snorted before grabbing my coat from the park bench and put it back on. 

"Well I'm not the type to exercise that much." Ren stated, rubbing his head bashfully with a sheepish grin. "But at least it was worth something, despite being forced to be in it."

"Yeah, how can you keep going even after those fifty laps Jack?" Kodi questioned, tilting his head in confusion. 

I let out a smirk at them and replied "That's because I work out everyday, that's what."

"You mean after we took a few breaks because you were worn out the most?" Ren reminded me with a raised brow, causing me to grumble angrily.

"S-shut up!" I yelled. "Look! Shouldn't you be somewhere with your girlfriend?!"

"I guess you have a point, well see ya I guess." Ren smiled before he and Kodiak took their leave.

"Tch!" I scoffed, not interested in reply back. Now that they're gone and our exercising came to an end, I guess I can go back home and take a nap, right after lunch. 

"WHOOOOOAAAA!" Huh? I quickly looked at the sky and saw a familiar rainbow pony about to crash into me. Oh heck no! I quickly moved out of the way, just when she crashed into the ground. "Ow..."

"Skittles?!" I asked, feeling angry that she nearly crashed into me again. Can't she go and find someplace else to do that?! I walked over and saw her squirming around in attempts to get out of there. Oh great, she's stuck, isn't she?

"H-hey! Hello! Somepony! Get me out of there!" Skittles muffled as she tried to pull herself out. Ugh, I still haven't forgive her for getting me stuck in that damn hospital, but I guess I got no choice but to help her. I grabbed onto her tail and used all my strength to pull her out of the crater she was trapped inside.

"AH!" Skittles sighed in relief. "Thanks! But a little easy next..." The moment she turned around and saw my face, she grew irritated and shocked. "You?!"

"Yeah, yeah, I get it. You and I don't like each other." I scoffed before letting go of her tail, causing her to fall back down on the ground, luckily not back inside of the crater she made. "What do you think you're doing when you nearly gave me another boner to break?"

"Well excuse me for practicing some cool aerial tricks." Skittles scoffed, flying back up directly at my face while she crossed her forelegs and asked "And what exactly is some fat guy like you even doing here?"

"I told you before, I am not fat! I'm husky!" I exclaimed angrily before calming down a bit. "Look, I'm here exercising with a couple of friends."

"You? Exercising?" Skittles laughed, causing me to grumble. "I bet you didn't even do well in it!"

"Shut up! If you were there, then maybe you would've seen me in frigging action!" I retorted before forming a small sly grin on my face. "Besides, you weren't any good for doing those air tricks of your own, huh?"

Skittles blushed in embarrassment as she exclaimed "Shut it fatty! I was doing alright! Those tricks were 20% awesome! Awesome enough to one day lead me to the Wonderbolts!"

"Wonder-what?" I questioned with a raised brow. 

"Seriously?! You haven't heard of them?! Oh my Celestia, what's your damage?!" Skittles shouted angrily before sighing "Jeez, I guess I gotta explain it then, huh?"

"Well excuse me because I ain't around here!" I growled angrily, which made her realize about that.

"Oh...right..." She rubbed her head bashfully with a sheepish grin before clearing her throat and said "Now, the Wonderbolts are made up of the coolest and yet fastest air performers and Equestria's elite flying aerial team! I was always my dream to keep be as awesome as them! Which I am even today."

"Keep dreaming." I scoffed. "Besides, maybe you have potential if you weren't such a blowhard."

"Hey!" Skittles growled before clearing her throat. "Look, I got no time anyway! Especially today!"

"What do ya mean by that?" I asked, narrowing my eyes at her.

"Oh right, you don't know about it, huh?" Skittles said, feeling a bit surprised right there before saying "Well you see to this day, we celebrate a holiday called 'Hearts and Hooves Day', which means for special someponies always give each other gifts and all that stuff. Not a big fan of the holiday."

"Really?" I asked, blinking in surprise. So it's basically some holiday rip-off of Valentine's Day? Whatever. Besides, I can't help but agree with her. That type of crappy stuff isn't my thing at all. "Well, makes sense since you aren't the type to love a holiday."

"Hey! I too love holidays!" Skittles retorted. "Just...not this one."

"Whatever, besides, I ain't interested in some mushy crappy stuff." I scoffed. "Especially being here with ya."

"You take that back!" Skittles exclaimed.

"In a million years." I retorted with a sly grin. We looked at each other with narrowed eyes, scowling at each other angrily before we heard somebody laughing. Alright, who's the bastard that's mocking me?!

"Wow, you two are so hilarious these days, you know that right?" Oh great...it's this idiot again. We turned around to see a familiar fedora wearing bastard leaning against the tree with a calm expression on his face. "Especially since you two are bantering like a couple would do."

Me and Skittles looked at each other in shock and blushed like red tomatoes before we angrily shouted "NO WE'RE NOT!"

"Yeah, keep telling yourselves that." Rantaro snickered. "Anyway, I was just trying to take a nice walk in the park till I heard you two arguing. Seriously, when isn't a time for you two to argue with each other?"

"Shut up!" I scoffed.

"Yeah! What exactly are you doing here?" Skittles questioned with a raised brow. 

"Like I said, I was just taking a nice walk in the park after getting some more of these from ponies." He took something out of his pockets, revealing a bunch of coins. "I got them after I got a deal from shoppers from my sale.“

“Sale?” I questioned before narrowing my eyes at him. “What? You’re conning them?”

“Well I wouldn’t directly say conning. Just making a hefty profit from those suckers by giving some of the remaining cider I had.” Rantaro explained with a smirk on his face.

“What?! You have more cider?!” Skittles gaped at that. “How?!”

“I still kept half of the cider safe and sound in my place just after Cider season was done for.” Rantaro shrugged with a nonchalant expression. “Anyway, what are you two lovebirds doing here? On a romantic date or something?”

“Shut up!” I growled, almost having the urge to take this bastard down with my fist.

“What? Just saying.” He shrugged, not caring one bit. “Anyway, now that I’m out of cider, I’m just gonna find go and find maybe some new products to take from stores and sell those.”

“You do realize that you’re telling us that right now?” Skittles narrowed her eyes at him, who only let out a smirk and said “I know. I wanted you guys to hear that, just in case you guys didn’t figure that out due to how hotheaded you two are.”

“Hey!” I yelled angrily as I pounced at him until he side-stepped out of the way and began walking off. 

“You two are just wasting time of me, so bye.” Rantaro shrugged with a smirk before walking off. I soon got back up and glared angrily at him, along with Skittles as she shouted “How are we wasting your time?! You’re wasting our time!”

“Ahh, that means that you two do care for each other.” Rantaro smirked, causing us both to blush in embarrassment as we both yelled “We told you that we aren’t dating!”

“Say what you want, lovebirds.” Rantaro snickered before taking his leave. Oh no, he ain’t getting away from me this time!

“Hey! Get back here!” I yelled, chasing after him.

“Hey! I want some of this action too!” Skittles yelled, flying after him. He noticed us before walking over to a nearby tree and as I got there, he was already gone.

“Damn…” I muttered. Where the hell did he go? 

“Great, he’s gone.” Skittles scowled. “Seriously, when I get my hooves on that guy, he’s so gonna be sorry!”

“Whatever, I never even wanted to beat him up anyway.” I scoffed, crossing my arms in a huff. “Though it makes sense why he’s called the ‘Shadow Broker’.”

“Shadow Broker? That’s his nickname?” Skittles raised a brow at that. “Please! Even I can come up with a nickname like that.”

“Yeah right.” I rolled my eyes before noticing something near us. “Huh? What the heck?”

What’s a picnic basket, along with blanket on the ground with two glasses of drinks just doing around here?

“What the hay?” Skittles noticed it as we walked over to it with confused looks. “Wonder who made all this?”

“Tch! Somebody probably just forgot to pack up.” I shrugged before noticed the two drinks as I picked them, seeing the two drinks glowing. “What the? What is this?”

“Beats me. I ain’t no magic expert. Twilight is.” Skittles shrugged.

“Well…I am getting parched.” I sighed as I was about to drink it until Skittles stopped me.

“Whoa whoa whoa! Do you even want to drink that? What if it belongs to someone?” Is she really stopping me because of that?

“Oh please, like anyone’s here? I mean, look around.” We looked around the place, seeing no one but a few ponies sitting with each other, which I assume were couples. “No one is coming over here to drink this, right? Besides, I’m thirsty.”

“Seriously? Do bikers even do this kind of stuff? Take stuff without knowing who is belongs?” Skittles raised a brow.

“Hey, it’s called ‘finders keepers, losers’ weepers’.” I scoffed. “Come on, you’re probably thirsty too. If not, then I’ll gladly enjoy drinking both.”

Skittles rubbed her chin for a bit and realized that I had a point…more less. “Well…I am quite thirsty after practicing around Ponyville for a while. So…why not! What the heck?”

“Heh, that’s more like it.” I smirked before handing her one. “You know, maybe you aren’t half bad.”

“Half bad?” Skittles questioned before smirking arrogantly. “Oh please, I’m way awesome!”

“Whatever.” I scoffed before we both hit our glasses and drank it together, swallowing the contents of the drink. "Hmm...not bad. Taste almost like cherry."

"Nah, it feels more like strawberry." Skittles shrugged before we heard a bunch of people heading our way as we turned around to see Mason's little sister and a bunch of smaller ponies, along with a purple pony and a big red one with an ankle collar around his neck.

"So would you three like to tell us why it was so very important that we meet you girls here again?" The purple pony asked curiously.

"Oh it's just something very great! Trust us." Carrie smiled happily before noticing me and Skittles and soon the glasses in our hands, causing her to widened her eyes in shock. "Jack? Rainbow Dash?!"

"Oh hey squirts, what's up?" Skittles waved happily at them.

"R-R-Rainbow Dash?! And...wait, who are you?" The little orange one asked curiously.

"Names Jack Yamaki. Nice to frigging meet'cha kiddo." I greeted with a snort.

"Umm...aren't you that other human Carrie talked about in school?" The little white pony asked hesitantly. What's going on with them? They aren't afraid of me, are they? If so, then whatever. I'm used to people being scared of me anyway.

"Yeah?" I raised a brow at them.

"You two...didn't drink that, did ya?" The little yellow pony asked fearfully.

"Well yeah. Fatty here found them and he gave one to me and we both drank it." I made a scowling look towards Skittles and exclaimed "I said don't call me 'Fatty'!"

"Then stop calling me 'Skittles'!" Skittles blew a raspberry at me, causing me to scowl angrily.

"Oh no! This is bad! This wasn't supposed to happen!" Carrie exclaimed in fear. "Oh, what are we gonna do?"

"What? What do you mean?" The purple pony asked, curiously looking at them.

"Eeyup." The big red pony nodded in agreement.

"Yeah, what's up you guys?" Skittles asked with a raised brow. "It's just drinks."

"No! You don't understand!" The little yellow pony exclaimed. "Those drinks were for Ms. Cheerilee and Big Mac!"

"Yeah! They were supposed to drink that and be madly in love after we doused it with love potion!" The little white pony added, not realizing what she just said.

"What?!" Skittles and I exclaimed in shock.

"What?!" The two older ponies known as Ms. Cheerilee and Big Mac exclaimed in shock as well while Carrie and the other two ponies face-palmed themselves.

"Seriously Sweetie Belle?!" The younger orange pony exclaimed, glaring angrily at her.

"What?...Oh!" The younger white pony known as Sweetie Belle widened her eyes in shock upon realizing that before chuckling sheepishly. "Heh heh...oops."

"What do you mean we would madly fall in love?!" Skittles demanded.

"Yeah! What did you do?!" I added, growling angrily at them.

"Girls! Explain yourselves!" Ms. Cheerilee asked with an angry look.

"Well..." The yellow pony rubbed her foreleg bashfully before sighing and explained "We may have borrowed a book from Twilight about Hearts and Hooves Day and we may have made a love potion for whoever drinks it and sees the first pony in mind, they'll fall madly in love with each other."

"What?!" Ms. Cheerilee gasped in shock.

"We're so sorry Ms. Cheerilee!" Carrie apologized. "We were just trying to help you two!"

"Well screw that!" I exclaimed angrily. "If you brats fed us that drink then doesn't that mean..." My expression turned pale and I could tell Skittles wasn't happy about that. So does that mean? Me and Skittles looked at each other in shock as I saw her eyes turning purple and I began to feel different. 

"Uh...oh." Me and Skittles muttered in unison. Ugh, I don't know why...but seeing her eyes...makes me feel joyful...wait, what am I saying?! Ugh...mind...going...blank....



Ren's POV
Man, I know I want to get closer with my friends and get to know them better, but not like this. After me and Kodi took our leave, we decided to head over to Fluttershy's cottage, but we were taking a small break walking around town in order to feel relax and finally catch our breaths. Hopefully none of the girls will smell the sweat we've been carrying from our exercises, mostly Fluttershy.

"Man, some exercising, huh Ren?" Kodi questioned with a meek smile.

"Yeah, I know how that feels." I sighed. "I exercise sometimes, but not this much. I feel like this is how people in the military."

"What's a military?" Kodi tilted his head in confusion, not familiar with that.

"It's our world's defense force. I don't watch the news that much, but I heard joining the military is quite hard what with their training and such, but overall, I heard from my brother that it's quite a good place to get a good scholarship." I answered with a smile.

"Scholar...ship?" Oh boy, this might take a while.

"Oh hi Ren, Kodiak." Huh? Was that Fluttershy? We turned to our left to see Fluttershy flying over to us, carrying a small basket in her left foreleg. "I'm glad to see you both."

"Yeah, same here..." I nodded with a smile. "Sorry if I didn't go to your cottage earlier ago. I was...running some errands."

"Errands?" Fluttershy asked curiously.

"Yeah, just some errands to carry out, right Kodi?" I turned to my pal, who quickly realized why I was lying.

"Y-yeah! Totally!" Kodi grinned. "We were just looking for something to eat for breakfast."

I gave Kodi a deadpan look. Seriously? Can this dog think anything else other than food?

"Okay?" Fluttershy tilted her head in confusion before smiling sweetly. "So anyway, I hope you didn't forget today."

"Today?" I asked in confusion. "Why? Is there something special about it?"

"You don't remember? Today's Heart and Hooves Day." Hearts and Hooves Day? What's that? Is that some Equestrian version of Valentine's Day? "Oh...I guess you did. I could've sworn that I told you about it last week."

"Well maybe you did and I just forgot." I chuckled nervously while rubbing my head nervously before asking "So anyway, what's that?"

"Oh, I think I heard about that." Kodi intervened. "It has something to do with ponies giving each other some chocolate and letters and kissing or whatever."

"Well...yeah." Fluttershy nodded. "I didn't know you knew half of Hearts and Hooves Day, Kodiak."

"Well back where I used to live when I was a little pup, I saw a bunch of ponies doing that around that wherever I go." Kodi replied. "They did a lot of kissing around the park. It was quite confusing and weird because I never got that."

"Well you're right about that. It's the same thing as Valentine's Day." I stated with a bright smile. 

"Valentine's Day?" Fluttershy questioned with a curious expression. "Is that what your people call it from where you and the others came from, Ren?"

"Yeah, it's similar to Hearts and Hooves Day. Except they're not ponies...they're humans, remember?" I grinned while rubbing my head bashfully, causing Fluttershy to giggle at that.

"I know that. So I bet you know how to celebrate it, right?" Fluttershy asked with a soft smile.

"Well...not really. I never gotten a love letter, just a box of chocolates from my parents, sister, and brother." I replied with a smile, surprising Fluttershy a bit.

"Really? Just from your family?" Fluttershy asked in surprise. 

"Yeah...I never really gotten it from anyone else. But I don't mind, besides like I told you before, I'm not good at relationships like this." I reminded her as I continued "I'm terrible playing games like love simulations and junk."

"I know, but I'm so sorry that you didn't get any gifts from anyone." Fluttershy apologized before flying up and giving me a quick kiss on the forehead, causing me to giggle. "Although, I'm so glad for your family to give you gifts. It's nice to hear how supportive they are."

"Yeah!" I nodded.

"Well what do you two gonna do?" Kodi asked curiously. "Well I mean...I don't have to be here if ya want..."

"Sure you can come with us, bud." I scratched him underneath the chin, causing him to sigh happily. "I mean, you can be the third wheel in this. You know, you can try to give me good tips while Fluttershy helps me with Hearts and Hooves Day, or Valentine's Day...I don't know anymore."

"Well...alright!" Kodi perked up at that with a bright smile and said "I'll do it!"

"Besides, Ren and I never abandoned you Kodiak." Fluttershy gave him a kiss on the nose, causing him to chuckle a bit before turning to me. "Now then, I'll gladly show you how to celebrate Hearts and Hooves Day. You did say that it's similar to Valentine's Day, right?"

"Well yeah. It should be a piece of cake, right?" I shrugged with a grin.

"Tee-hee! I'm sure it will. I was just finished getting some groceries for...special reasons." Fluttershy chuckled nervously while she blushed, causing me and Kodi to look at each other in confusion. Wonder what's up with her? "But anyway, how about we hang around Sugarcube Corner? We can buy a milkshake with the same straws."

"It's that one of the signs in a relationship?" I asked curiously.

"Mm-hmm!" Fluttershy nodded and said "Exactly! Come along!"

As we began to move, I was immediately hit in the head with a carrot before noticing a familiar trouble-making rabbit was in the basket, giving me and Kodi glares. 

"Oh...hey." I said, rubbing my aching head. Wasn't expecting to see him of all places.

"Oh right, I almost forgot. I brought Angel with me because he's so lonely when I leave for grocery shopping." Fluttershy answered as we headed on our way to Sugarcube Corner, but not before Angel gave me one of those 'I'm watching' looks. I really don't wanna have a grudge with Angel, but it seems like it's too late for that. 

As soon as we arrived, Kodi nudged my leg as he pointed over to the door and whispered "Why not you open the door for Fluttershy? I've seen special someponies do that."

"Good idea, bud." I nodded before walking past Fluttershy and opening the door for her and said "After you, Flutters."

"Oh!" Fluttershy giggled with a blush. "You're such a gentlepony Ren." 

"Heh heh...yeah." I chuckled as me and Kodiak entered the place as we all saw something I thought it would never happen.

"Oh! I love you Jacky-wacky!"

"Oh, I love you too Dashy-washy!"

What...the...actual...heck is going on here?! What we witnessed was Jack and Rainbow Dash...drinking out of a milkshake...with two straws in it! Seriously, what the heck?! I mean, they aren't even caring what's happening here!

"Umm...Rainbow Dash? Jack?" Fluttershy called, feeling a bit disturb upon seeing all...this.

"Oh hey." Rainbow waved, not bothering to look at Fluttershy as she continued to admire Jack while he kept watching her directly to the eyes. They then began slurping through the milkshake together in a romantic way, but overall, there was really, really, really something wrong with this scene.

"Uhh...why are Jack and Rainbow sitting together in a table...together?" Kodi asked, still shocked upon seeing this.

"I have no idea." I shrugged.

"Oh, you're so handsome Jacky-wacky huggy bug!" Rainbow complimented.

"And you're so beautiful shiny-winy, lovey-doo!" Jack commented. 

"Umm...is this?" Fluttershy turned to me with an uncomfortable look as I suggested "Weird? Disturbing?"

"Yes..." Fluttershy nodded as we walked over to the table and asked "So umm...Rainbow Dash? Jack? Is there something you wish to talk about?"

"Yeah, why are you two look like you're...on a date?" Kodi added with a raised brow.

"Oh, that's because we are! Me and my Jacky-wacky are having the time of our lives!" Rainbow answered with a bright smile, along with Jack.

"Okay, what?!" I exclaimed in shock. Okay, that's not the Rainbow Dash and Jack I know! "Seriously, what the heck's going on with you two?!"

"I have a very special somepony, duh!" Rainbow smirked, not taking her gaze off of Jack. "A snuggy-wuggy, honey-funny puppy-wuv!"

"You're my smoochy-woochy baby-waby!" Jack replied with an equal amount of love towards her.

"This is just gotten more weirder than usual." Kodi commented. 

"I know right? What's happened to them?" I asked with a worried and surprised look. "They're not normally like this. They always argue with each other, so why are they acting like a couple?"

"Jack! Rainbow Dash! There you two are!" We turned around to see Carrie and the Cutie Mark Crusaders rushing in with panic expressions on their faces. "Please don't run off like that!" Apple Bloom begged.

"Girls, what's going on?" Fluttershy asked curiously.

"It's Jack and Rainbow Dash! They're under the love potion's spell!" Carrie explained.

"Love...potion?" I asked in confusion. "So wait, you girls made a potion that'll magically make them fall in love?"

"...Ugh, no." Sweetie Belle chuckled nervously.

"It's no use lying Sweetie Belle." Apple Bloom sighed sadly before looking at us and said "It's true Ren, we really did make a love potion, but for only good use!"

"And we didn't want them to drink it! We wanted Ms. Cheerilee and Big Mac to drink it in hopes of falling in love with each other." Carrie added with a guilty look on her face.

"Ms. Cheerilee and Big Macintosh? But why?" Fluttershy asked.

"It's because we wanted to help Ms. Cheerilee on finding a special somepony for Hearts and Hooves Day since we wanted to appreciate her, but it all didn't work out once we saw them act like this." Scootaloo explained sadly. "I guess we should've known better..."

"Yeah, and when Big Mac and Ms. Cheerilee found out about it, they punished us for trying to trick them into forcing them to love each other." Sweetie Belle added. "So they told us to fix this mess up and then as punishment, we had to do Big Mac's chores for the rest of the day."

"It's understandable, really." I said, feeling a bit shocked to hear all this. "I mean, forcing two ponies into loving each other is kinda wrong. It wouldn't create a perfect bond."

"Ren's right. Take a look at us." Fluttershy said in a soft yet stern tone. "Ren and I began our relationship for quite a while and we were friends when he first came to our world, and I began developing feelings for him due to his courage and kind personality, but after a while, he learned about my hidden feelings and we started out as special someponies."

"So...are you saying that we shouldn't mess with love and force people and ponies to do that and just wait till their relationship goes deeper?" Carrie guessed, which we nodded.

"Exactly." Fluttershy nodded.

"I guess it makes sense because my big brother and Elena took about 4 years to finally start dating each other, so I guess it's understandable, really." Carrie smiled happily, which made the rest of us smiled to see Carrie at least got it until the moment gotten ruined as we noticed how close both Jack and Rainbow Dash were feeling what with now they're under the effect of that love potion!

"My munchy-lunchy wuvvy dove!" Jack complimented.

"And my fatty-patty patootie!" Rainbow added with a creepy bright smile.  

"So what about them?" Kodi asked with worried.

"Well maybe if we look over at the love potion spell, it might explain a cure." I suggested.

"Girls, how did you make that love potion?" Fluttershy asked curiously.

"We got from a book that talked about Hearts and Hooves Day." Carrie answered.

"It's where we learn about the love potion and how to make it." Apple Bloom replied.

"We got it from Twilight." Scootaloo added.

"You don't say?" I muttered before looking over to see Jack and Rainbow Dash looking at each other with creepy bright grins until I noticed that their eyes were pink colored apparently. Huh, I guess I haven't noticed that. Although, it's really creepy considering these two always like to argue with each other, but overall, I can't say that this is an improvement or not.



Jamie's POV
"Wow, you're really tired out." Spike commented, seeing me lying on the small couch with a tired look. After my daily workout with Jack and Mason, I headed back to the Golden Oaks Library to continue with my research, but I couldn't keep up with my reading.

"D-don't worry you guys, I'll be alright." I assured as Owlicious landed on top of my head and looked at me curiously.

"Hoo?" Owlicious turned his head 90 degrees before returning back to normal, causing me to smile a bit.

"Well Owlicious' seems to worry for you as well." Twilight added with a light chuckle before frowning in concern. "Although, you've been getting more tired out than you usual do."

"W-well..." I muttered, feeling like that if I should tell her, but I can't. I...I don't want to know that I'm a coward.

"Plus, you've been sleeping early for sometimes. You normally stay all night and help Twilight with her midnight research." Spike added. "So what's going on?"

"I-I can't say." I shook my head, getting up from the couch before putting back on my black button shirt.

"Jamie, it's okay to tell us." Twilight assured. "If you tell us what's going on, we can help out."

"There's n-nothing wrong T-Twilight, Spike, and Owlicious. I'm p-perfectly fine." I assured with a weak grin before muttering "I'm just taking Mason's advice on sleeping early. I...just don't wanna get sick from my lack of sleep. Lack of sleep can affect my immune system, or other humans. Studies show that people who don't get quality sleeping or enough sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus, such as a common cold virus-"

"Yeah yeah, we get it. You don't have to tell us." Spike interrupted, causing me to become shock again.

"Stop listening to me!" I begged.

"Well even so, you do raise a good point. I don't want you to get a fever. I think resting up for a while can help improve your health, Jamie." Twilight smiled. 

"O-oh...thank you Twilight." I smiled happily.

"But overall, I guess now that you're feeling better, we can get back to work. Even if today is Hearts and Hooves Day, I don't wanna close the library." Huh? Hearts and Hooves Day?

"Hearts and...Hooves day?" I asked curiously.

"Oh right, Hearts and Hooves Day is the time of year where special someponies spend time together and show their affection towards each other." Twilight explained. "It's been here since during the founding of Equestria."

"Basically, it's all about giving each other love letters, box of chocolates, all that kind of stuff." Spike said before sighing happily "But maybe I can get chocolate for Rarity..."

He then noticed the raised brows we were giving him. "As friends! That's all!"

"Umm...okay?" Twilight raised a brow before turning to me with a smile and asked "Say Jamie, do you have a holiday like that in your world?"

“Oh, y-yes, it’s called Valentine’s Day.” I nodded, frowning a bit on remembering Valentine’s Day. I…was never a good fan of that holiday. “But…I do not celebrate the holiday that much.”

“You don’t?” Twilight asked incredulous.

“Yeah, I…never received a love letter or a box of chocolate. And even if I do, it’s either a prank or someone trying to win my affections to share the fortune with me.” I sighed sadly. It’s the truth though, that’s the point on why girls would go after rich kids like me. I wonder…are ponies here will like me only because I’m rich or…?

“Yeesh, you must not have a good childhood.” Spike commented, causing Twilight to sternly glare at him, who smiled sheepishly at her. 

“Anyway…” Twilight walked towards me with a smile and said “Jamie, don’t let it bug you. I know how you feel on not celebrating Hearts and Hooves Day or Valentine’s Day on your suggestion.” 

I looked at her in shock, hearing this coming out of her. I-Is…she serious? 

“R-really?” I asked incredulous.

“Yes, all I did every year for Hearts and Hooves Day back in Canterlot was just read my books and study everyday, learning new magic along the way.” Twilight explained with a sad smile. “It never bugged me until when I became friends with the others here in Ponyville. Although, I think there was one or two ponies asking me out for a date for Hearts and Hooves Day, but…I might’ve rejected or didn’t talked to them because I was too focus on studying magic to become a great mage as Princess Celestia.”

“Twilight…” I muttered, fully understanding her. I guess even with great knowledge can come with a great price. She never made any friends, just like me. Sure, we ended up with different situations on why we couldn’t make friends, but we have great knowledge all because I felt like no one wanted me besides reading my novels, and Twilight ignored ponies to accept their friendship. I guess we really have something in common.

I soon gave her a soft smile and put my hand on her shoulder and said “Thank you for understanding my issue. But I guess none of us ever celebrated Hearts and Hooves Day or Valentine’s Day, huh?”

“Yeah, it seems so.” Twilight chuckled. Owlicious looked over at us with a curious expression while Spike let out a gagging sound before grabbing a book and headed upstairs. Oh no, please don’t tell me that he’s in it too, right?

“Jamie! Twilight!” Huh? We heard the door barged opened, revealing Ren, Fluttershy, Kodiak, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and Carrie barged in, causing me to put my hand away from her as I got up and looked at them in confusion.

“What are you all doing here?” I questioned.

“Twilight, do you remember that book you gave us?” Carrie asked. Wait, what book?

“Yes?” Twilight nodded before asking “Why? What’s going on?”

“Well…don’t be mad, but we may or may not used it to cock up a love potion that was intentionally meant for Ms. Cheerilee and Big Mac, but instead the spell affected both Rainbow Dash and Jack.” Scootaloo explained, causing Twilight to twitch her eyes.

“Wait, a love potion?” I asked in confusion before exclaiming “So wait, you can make something like that here?!”

“I know right? Even I was surprise.” Ren said, surprised about it as well.

“So wait, you girls created a love potion only to mess up with Jack and Rainbow Dash’s relationship?!” Twilight yelled, which the girls lowered their heads in guilt. “You girls know better than to make a love potion and just mess with love!”

“We know! We know!” Scootaloo sighed in exasperation.

“Yeah, Fluttershy and Ren explained about it already.” Sweetie Belle added.

“Wait, what book?” I asked. “Could somebody please tell me what’s going on?”

“Well you see…” Twilight turned to me with a serious look and said “I gave the Crusaders and Carrie a book about Hearts and Hooves Day. I only read about what the holiday was about and I think I came across the section about love potions. I can’t remember much about it though…”

“Well do you have the book then?” Ren asked.

“Of course! The Crusaders gave it back to me for a shortwhile.” Twilight nodded before turning to me and asked “Jamie, could you get it for me? It should be on Row 12 Shelf 5.”

“O-Okay!” I nodded before walking over to one of the library shelves and found the book that details Hearts and Hooves Day as I came back with it and settled the book down on the table as the others and I surrounded it with Twilight using her levitation magic to open the book. 

“Is there any cure for it?” Fluttershy asked hesitantly.

“Well there has to be one. We did cure Apple Bloom from a case of Cutie Pox, remember?” I reminded them, which caused the pony that was mentioned about that incident.

“Please don’t remind me about that. It was one bad disaster I won’t be forgetting…” Apple Bloom sighed.

“But at least you know what it feels like to have a cutie-mark, right?” Carrie smiled softly, which made Apple Bloom smiled back at her.

“Uhh…guys, are you sure that thing you used is called a love potion?” Ren asked with a raised brow, looking over at the book.

“Yeah, why do you ask?” Sweetie Belle asked curiously. Ren pointed at a certain page he was on as we all looked over and once we read it, I let out a shocking gasp and exclaimed “Because it’s not a love potion you girls used! It’s a love poison!”

“Love poison?!” Everyone, except Ren, exclaimed in shock.

“What in the world is a love poison?!” Kodi exclaimed. “How in the world did they mistake that?!”

“We were told about it by Twilight!” Scootaloo pointed out, causing some of us to look at the said purple unicorn, who blushed in embarrassment with a sheepish grin.

“O-okay, so I forgot about it! I didn’t know about it!” Twilight exclaimed. 

“Well it’s understandable since you and I didn’t read that book that much, or in my case, I never managed to get this car." I shrugged.

"Yeah, but what's this about a love poison, though?" Kodi asked with a raised brow.

"Well..." I looked over the page Ren saw and began reading it aloud for others to hear. "According to hear, a fellow prince from the neighboring Earth Pony tribe fell in love with Princess Platinum, ruler of the Unicorn kingdom back during the founding of Equestria. Apparently, the prince fell in love with the princess, but she didn't return his feelings."

"Kinda harsh really." Ren commented, feeling bad for the prince.

"And apparently he made the recipe for the love potion and gave it to her to drink. He meant it to be a love potion, but things didn't go so well." Twilight explained. 

"H-how exactly did things 'not go so well'?" Fluttershy asked in fear.

"Well for one thing, they've been too distracted with each other instead of doing their royal duties that their kingdom collapsed, dragons invading, and someone taking over Equestria with the power of chaos." I explained, reading through the text of the book.

"Chaos...?" Ren asked in confusion before gasping in shock. "Oh right! Discord!"

"Dis...scord?" I asked.

"He's this evil draconnequus that Princess Celestia told us about as he was the original ruler of Equestria before they descend the throne." Kodi explained. 

"Yeah, he captured me and Kodiak once, but if it wasn't for big brother and the rest of our friends, who knows what might've happened?" Carrie smiled at that.

"Discord." I muttered loudly as I continued "It's a name that stands for disharmony and chaos. It makes sense considering since the book states that-"

"Yeah yeah, we get it!" Scootaloo rudely interrupted, much to my displeasure and surprise as she continued "But right now, we should focus on getting Rainbow Dash and that big brute back to normal! I don't want her to keep acting like this! She's not who she is!"

Apple Bloom sighed heavily and stated "Great! We've not only turned Jack and Rainbow Dash into a couple of nonsense-spouting nicompoops, we may have put all of Ponyville in jeopardy!"

"Come on, Apple Bloom. Miss Cheerilee and Jack don't have any royal duties." Sweetie Belle retorted.

"But still, making them fall in love with each other by a spell isn't right." Ren stated. "We need to find a cure for them and fast!"

"We know Ren, and that's why we're gonna help." Twilight smiled in determination.

"Y-yeah...I'll try too." I nodded in agreement, though I was unsure if we can pull this off.

"That's more like it. I mean, the more the merrier, right?" Ren smirked at that idea. 

"And we should be able to save our friends, right?" Fluttershy smiled.

"Let's see..." I looked over the book and managed to learn more about the 'love poison'. "According to here,  there is an antidote! And it states if the two users are keep looking into each other's eyes for one full hour, the love curse will be broken."

"Only an hour? Pfft! We can pull that off in a second." Scootaloo boasted with a cocky grin.

"The only problem is to find them." Twilight stated. "Where was the last time you saw them?"

"We saw them at Sugarcube Corner." Apple Bloom answered.

"And I bet that they're still there!" Carrie said. "Let's go before things get worse!"

"No offense, but what could possibly happen with them sticking around, falling in love like that?" Sweetie Belle questioned.

"Well Rainbow Dash is the captain of the Ponyville Weather team, right?" Ren replied, thinking about it.

"And soon-to-become member of the famed Wonderbolts!" Scootaloo yelled in fury. "We have to hurry before it's too late!"

"True, but even though it's nice to see them get along despite being underneath the love potion's spell." Fluttershy admitted, smiling a bit. "Besides what with all...the fighting and arguing."

"Well true, but still we should get them back to normal." Ren said, feeling like it was no good to leave them like this.

"He's right. Love should never be tampered with, r-right?" I asked, which Twilight smiled brightly and nodded in agreement.

"Exactly. Now come on. Let's go fix them up." Twilight said with determination.

"Yeah! Before things get any worse!" Carrie agreed as we all took our leave of the Golden Oaks Library and headed our way towards Sugarcube Corner until we noticed several ponies walking away with disgusted looks on their faces.

"What in tarnation is going on here?" Apple Bloom wondered.

"Yeah, what the hay is wrong with everybody?" Scootaloo thought aloud. "They all looked like they've seen a ghost." 

I looked around to find out the source of this before widening my eyes in shock upon seeing a familiar biker and a rainbow Pegasus sitting on one of the restaurants tables outside with them sharing each other's food...in one plate.

"Here, have a piece my cutie-patootie jumpycake!" Rainbow offered.

"No, after you my happy sugar-rump!" Jake grinned crazily.

"You're so funny when you joke around, cookie-lips!"

"No, you're funny pookie-pie!" 

Okay, they weren't exaggerating when they say they were acting too much.

"I...think I-I found them." I pointed over to the scene, which caused some of the gang to gag at this.

"Bleh! Seeing Rainbow Dash like this is almost getting me to barf up my lunch!" Scootaloo complained.

"Well we have to make them stay away from each other for a full hour." Twilight reminded us with a serious look. 

"Okay, but how?" Kodi asked curiously. "If these two keep acting up like this, then they'll probably be planning a wedding soon..."

"A wedding soon..." Ren thought for a while before smiling happily towards Kodiak and said "Kodi, you're a genius!"

"I am?" Kodi asked incredulous.

"Alright, what is it?" Apple Bloom asked. 

"Follow my lead." Ren winked as he walked past us, causing us to look at each other in worried. I'm sure if Ren has a good idea, but I have a bad feeling about this.

"Enjoy it my cutie-patootie!" Jake offered, pushing the piece of pie over to Rainbow Dash, who pushed it back to him and said "No, after you my beloved snuggle-wuggle."

"Umm...Rainbow Dash? Jack?" Ren called, clearing his throat.

"Yes?" They both asked, not taking their eyes off of each other. 

"Me and the others realized that you two are getting so closer than usual." Ren chuckled nervously.

"Of course! Skittles is my new girlfriend!" Jack made a tooth-eating grin as Rainbow added "And Jack is my new special somepony."

"Bleh!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders and Carrie cringed at that while me and Twilight shook our heads at this. 

Ren got between the two, ignoring their distressed looks as he continued "Well if you two are so close, then maybe you two should get together in a little wedding of yours!" We all looked at Ren with shocked expressions, not believing what he just said.

"Wait what?!" We all exclaimed.

"Married?!" Jack and Rainbow Dash exclaimed in shock before Ren stepped out of their way as he muttered "Yeah, married...!"

"Married..." Jack and Rainbow Dash sighed dreamily as they locked their gazes again before they put their noses against each other and nuzzled each other.

"Ugh!" Apple Bloom cringed at that.

"But wait, how is that gonna keep them apart?" Carrie asked in confusion.

"They aren't really gonna get married. They're just gonna get ready to get married." Ren explained with a wink.

"Oh, that's quite...a thought-out plan, Ren." Twilight commented.

"Yeah, that'll surely make them stay away for an hour, at least." I nodded in agreement with a soft smile.

"Well, if it wasn't for Kodiak, I wouldn't have thought of that." Ren shrugged, causing Kodi to bark happily at that.

"Ahh, thanks pal." Kodi chuckled.

"So do you think we can able to do it?" Fluttershy wondered aloud. "Not that I'm doubting one bit of it no less."

"Don't worry, we can totally can!" Ren assured. 

I nodded in agreement with a soft grin and said "I get it now! All we have to do is lead Rainbow Dash to find the perfect dress while Jack looks for the perfect ring for her and if we're able to get them distracted for a full hour, then they'll revert back to normal!"

"That has to work!" Carrie cheered with a bright smile.

"Alright, we'll split up." Twilight offered. "Ren, Fluttershy, Kodi, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom will go with Jack to get the ring while Carrie, Sweetie Belle, Jamie, and I will head over to get Rainbow Dash her dress."

"Don't worry Twilight, We'll try our best to get Jack away from Rainbow for a while." Fluttershy assured with a soft grin. 

"Yeah!" Carrie nodded in agreement with a determined look. "I got them into this mess, and I'm gonna fix it!"

"That's the spirit! Now let's go!" Ren said as he and his group walked over and grabbed Jack by the arm in attempt to pull him in as he said "Now come on Jack! We gotta get your ring for the wedding!"

"Ring?" Jack asked himself before grinning at that idea. "Oh hell yeah! The ring!"

"And we should get you your dress for the w-wedding as well, R-Rainbow Dash." I said with a nervous and soft grin. 

"Dress?!" Rainbow Dash gasped before flying off, leaving Jack in distress.

"My babe! My beautiful babe!" Jack exclaimed until he was pulled back by Ren and Fluttershy as they held him by the arms while Kodi, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo pulled him off by the pants.

"D-Do you think that maybe it'll work Twilight?" I asked in worried.

"Hopefully..." Twilight sighed. "Now come on! Let's go!"

"R-right..."

With that, me, Twilight, Sweetie Belle, and Carrie followed after Rainbow Dash in order to find her dress while we actually tried to distract her from trying to see Jack in a hour. Hopefully, it'll work for sure. Though, I never thought of that idea at all and Ren came up with an idea that could potentially work to keep them at bay. But...I'm quite amazed that he came up with something like that. I...I wished I could've came up with something like that. Ren just seems...so much cooler than me.



Mason's POV
"So...emergency crisis huh?" 

"Okay! Okay! So this doesn't count as one, but at least you came to me and Kaede to help out Mason, darling." Rarity sheepishly grinned at me while I sighed. I should've seen this coming. The 'emergency' Rarity told me about was actually getting me to stand like a mannequin while she makes different suits for our size. Kaede was working on making dresses for pony's size. Oh well, like I have time with any of this anyway. "Now hold still while I tighten these suits, it's very important to make these for the customers that needs them for Hearts and Hooves Day."

"I think I heard that holiday just the other day. What's that about?" I questioned, which made Rarity gasped in shock.

"You mean to tell me that you don't know what Hearts and Hooves Day is?!" Rarity exclaimed in shock, causing me to give her a dry look as I replied "No, that's why I asked."

"And besides Rarity, we aren't from this world, remember?" Kaede reminded her, focusing on making a dress that seems awfully almost like a wedding dress.

"Oh yes, I nearly forgot." Rarity chuckled nervously before turning to me and explained "Hearts and Hooves Day is a wonderful holiday where we ponies celebrate the love we share with each other. It's all about romance, walking through the beautiful areas of a park, your special somepony rowing you across the river while you two gaze at each other with lovely eyes."

"So in other words, it's like our world's holiday, Valentine's Day, yes?" I asked curiously.

"Valentine's Day?" Rarity questioned. "Is that your world's holiday name?"

"Yes. Back then, our holiday held a special meaning to it, named after a man named Valentine after he held special marriages after Rome's king banished all marriages." I explained. "Over the years, we celebrated Valentine's Day to give each other our love and show them how much we care for them."

"My oh my, banish all marriages?" Rarity questioned. "Why on Equestria would someone would do that?"

"I...have no clue." I shrugged as Rarity was almost finished up on the suit. 

"Well either way, it just doesn't seem quite right. Love should be shared with others, not keep it to yourself." Rarity softly smiled while she finished up the stitching and continued "You know, Sweetie Belle always shared her Hearts and Hooves letters to me, and pretty much, I get thank you cards from some of the stallions here in Ponyville. It was such a nice thing for them to do for me."

"Yeah, I get that feeling." I smiled fondly on that. "Every year, me and Elena shared Valentine's Day letters to each other. It was quite a good time back then..." 

Rarity noticed my discomfort and looked at me with a frown and asked "Are you alright Mason?"

"N-nothing, I'm just wondering...how Elena is doing." I closed my eyes and went silent after that. What is she doing now? Is she searching for me and Carrie? No, why am I even asking that? Of course she's searching for us because we're family.

"Mason, there's no need to worry. She's probably looking for you and your little sister already." Rarity assured, putting away her sewing kit. "You two share a great and lovely bond with each other right? So I know she wouldn't stop looking no matter what happens. That's the whole point of love, after all, right?"

I smiled softly at Rarity for encouraging me there as I nodded and replied "Right."

“Good! Now then…” Rarity’s horn glowed as she used her magic to bring over a tall mirror and I gaze at myself, seeing myself good in this black suit, underneath it was a gray vest and a black tie and red shirt underneath the gray vest. “Ta-da! How do you look?”

“…Pretty fancy and magnificent.” I stated with a smile. “It looks quite good Rarity.”

“Ahh Mason, you flatter me.” Rarity giggled, blushing a bit. I nodded back to her before noticing Kaede looking at us with a soft smile, causing me to raise a brow at her. What’s up with her? Is…Oh god.

“Hey big brother!” Huh? We heard the door burst opened, revealing Carrie as she, Twilight, Jamie, and Sweetie Belle came bursting in, along with Rainbow Dash, who seemed frantic about something as she searched around the place and started looking at the…dresses?

“Umm…hey you guys.” Kaede greeted, raising a brow towards Rainbow Dash as she asked “What does Rainbow Dash needs?”

“She needs a dress to try out!” Sweetie Belle answered, causing the three of us to feel surprised to hear that. Since when did Rainbow Dash was the type to try out a wedding dress at all? 

“What? But…why?” Rarity asked curiously, feeling a bit shocked to hear that.

“It’s a long story, but right now, we need to make her and Jack stay away from each other for a full hour!” Jamie answered as Sweetie Belle pushed Rainbow Dash into the dressing area with a white dress in her hooves as she said “There! Go crazy if ya want! Try them all out!”

Carrie immediately pushed a cart full of dresses into the dressing room while Twilight immediately used her magic to build a barricade in front of the dressing room, trapping Rainbow Dash in it.

“Wait! Me and Kaede made those dresses all day!” Rarity complained.

“Yeah! And why is Rainbow Dash so eager getting a wedding dress?!” Kaede added, feeling a bit shocked to hear that. “I don’t think Rainbow Dash is the type to wear those unless it’s something relating to the Grand Galloping Gala.”

“Well…She accidentally drank a love potion that was meant for Ms. Cheerilee and Big Mac that we made.” Carrie explained, causing us all to feel surprised to hear that.

“What?!” I exclaimed in shock. “Carrie, why would you and your friends do that?”

“I just wanted to make Ms. Cheerilee feel happy and find a special somepony and we settle with Big Mac because he was loyal, responsible, and mature like you.” Carrie replied sadly. “I’m sorry…I should’ve realized that love shouldn’t be messed with and it takes time for two people or ponies to truly fall in love with each other…just like you and Elena.”

“Carrie…” I sighed before softly smiling at her. She’s just a little girl, so she doesn’t know about romance and how long it takes to develop feelings such as that yet. “Well please next time, don’t do that again.”

“Yes big brother.” Carrie nodded, still feeling guilty for that.

“And don’t worry! We found a way to cure them back to normal.” Twilight assured.

“Yes, all we have to do is to make sure they stay away from each other for a hour.” Jamie added with a serious look on his face. "I just hope we can have enough time to distract them for sure."

"Well me and Kaede have been making dresses all day for our customers to buy since it is Hearts and Hooves Day and I asked Mason for some help by testing out new human suits that we've managed to make." Rarity showed them the rest of the dresses, surely that'll take her a long while to test them all out."

"Perfect sis!" Sweetie Belle grinned at that.

"So wait, if Rainbow drank this love potion, who did she fell in love with if she's so eager to marry that guy?" Kaede asked. Carrie, Sweetie Belle, Twilight, and Jamie looked at each other in worried as Carrie said "You see, it's...Jack."

....Wait...what?

"You mean...Rainbow Dash...fell in love with Jack?!" I asked, widening my eyes in shock.

"...Yes?" Carrie smiled sheepishly. 

Well...this turned out to be surprising at least.

"...Oh my god." I muttered.

"Unbelievable..." Kaede blinked in surprise.

"I cannot believe this..." Rarity shook her head, still gaping at this. "That brute is in love with Rainbow Dash?! Unacceptable!"

"I-it's not that bad..." Jamie assured with a weak grin before flinching from Rarity's glare. "N-never mind!"

"Jamie has a point." Twilight stepped up with a serious look. "Look, we're going to fix this all."

"I hope so." Sweetie Belle sighed. "Wonder how Ren and the others are taking care of Jack?"
Later
At the west side of Ponyville, Ren and the gang took Jack to a jewelry, where the jeweler was showing them each gem that Jack could use for the 'wedding'. He showed one of them, which made Jack shook his head excitingly.

"No." Ren shook his head, much to Jack's disappointment. Soon, the jeweler began showing them different kinds of rings and Jack didn't care which one was good as he wish to use it on Rainbow Dash.

"Nope." Ren said. "Nada. Zilch. I'm not sure about that one. Seems kinda dull."

A half hour passed as Ren was worn out as he sat down on the nearby chair with a tired look.

"We better hurry, I'm running out of critics." Ren said tiredly. 

"Don't worry Ren, we got about another half hour till the spell is gone for good." Kodi assured.

"Kodi's right. As long as we get Jack to stay here and keep looking for a good ring." Fluttershy added, kissing Ren on the left cheek, causing him to blush a bit.

"T-thanks you guys..." Ren chuckled.

"Hey wait a minute, where he go?" Scootaloo asked, looking around to see the human biker was nowhere to be seen.

"That's weird, he was just here a minute ago!" Apple Bloom exclaimed before running towards the counter and asked "Excuse me sir, but have you seen a big fat human wearing a white overcoat?"

"Oh yes, he just purchased the ring and said something about meeting with his..." The Jeweler cleared his throat before saying "His smoochy pie..."

Everyone went pale upon realizing that Jack immediately left.

"Uh oh..." They muttered before immediately running out of the jewelry store and immediately chased after the biker, finding him running with the ring in his hands.

"Alright, me and Kodi will distract him while you guys head over to Carousel Boutique and warn the others!" Ren stated.

"Are you sure you guys can distract him?" Fluttershy asked worriedly, but Ren and Kodi both gave her grins.

"Trust us, we got this!" Ren winked.

"Yeah!" Kodi agreed, causing Fluttershy to smile softly at them.

"Okay, good luck boys." Fluttershy nodded before she and the others took off as Ren took out his Hacking Gun and raised it at Jack. 

"Now...Dance!" Ren shot out a melody note beam straight towards Jack, but somehow, he immediately dodged and it aimed a two special someponies, and began dancing crazily.

"Wait, how did he even knew that was coming at him?!" Kodi gaped.

"I have no clue, but let's try this!" Ren shot 'Paralyze' at him, but Jack moved out of the way as he made a hard left and shocked a nearby stallion drinking some tea, causing him to frozen in shock as his mane was frizzled, causing both the human boy and his talking dog to wince at that.

"Ooh, that ain't gonna be pretty." Ren commented.

"Yeah...we should probably go." Kodi offered, which Ren agreed without hesitation as the two immediately chased after Jack. 



Meanwhile
"Huh, Rainbow Dash has been there for quite a while." Jamie commented, feeling surprised that we haven't heard a peep out of her.

"True, and she's known for always being in a rush." Rarity stated.

"At this rate, I say that she and Jack will be back to normal in no time!" Carrie said with an exciting grin.

"I hope so too Carrie." I said, patting her on the head, causing her to smile happily at that. Suddenly, we heard the door bursting open, revealing to be Fluttershy, Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom, who looked extremely exhausted.

"What's wrong?" Twilight asked.

"And where's Ren, Kodi, and Jack?" Jamie added.

"On...their...way. Gotta...keep Jack...out of boutique..." Scootaloo muttered.

"Rainy dainty!" Huh? Was that?

"Jack!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed in shock as Jack pushed pass the three and looked around frantically with a ring in his hands. 

"Quick! Stop him before he sees Rainbow Dash!" Twilight yelled, which I nodded before turning to Carrie and said "Carrie, stay with Kaede and Rarity please."

"O-okay." Carrie nodded before heading over to Rarity and Kaede as I stepped forward and stood in front of Jack. 

"Okay Jack, that's far as you go. I know what happened to you and Rainbow Dash, that's why I can't let you two see each other for who knows how long." I said with a serious and stern look. Jack growled and tried to get pass me until I grabbed his arm and threw him straight to the ground. Jack immediately jumped back up and tried to find Rainbow Dasb until I grabbed him again, only for him to use his right arm to punch me in the gut and throw me across the room, landing in some dresses.

"Hey! Leave Mason and my clothes alone you brute!" Rarity exclaimed in anger. 

"Big brother!" Carrie yelled in worried.

"D-don't worry you guys. I'm fine..." I grunted before jumping back up and grabbed his shoulders, trying my best to hold him down.

"N-no! Schoompy poo!" Schoompy what? 

"Mason!" Huh? I glanced over to my left to see Ren and Kodi in the front door with the Hacking Gun in his hands. "Quick! Let me shoot him with a 'Paralyze' bullet!"

I nodded with a firm look while I was relieved to finally see him come here. I thought for sure that he wouldn't arrive in time. I managed to lift Jack by my arms, despite his weight, but man, he sure weigh a ton. I turned around and made Jack face Ren as he pulled the trigger, shooting straight towards him.

"Jacky-wacky!" Huh? Suddenly, we heard a rumble as the dressing room, along with the barricade, exploded right in our faces as Rainbow Dash blasted her way out of there with a rainbow trail falling behind her as she took the shot, getting electrocuted and frozen in shock.

"Ahh! Rainbow Dash!" Scootaloo gasped.

"Oh my god! I-is she alright?!" Kaede asked in worried. 

"Smoochy-poo?" Jack questioned in worried as the paraylsis started to wear off as Rainbow slowly began opening her eyes.

"Oh please work! Please work! Please work!" Carrie and Apple Bloom begged together. Soon, we heard a clock chiming sound as we looked at top to see Rarity's clock announcing the time. Soon, we saw the two 'lovebirds' blinking at each other before looking at what she was wearing.

"What the?! Why the hay am I in a wedding veil?!" Rainbow demanded, ripping it off and throwing it into the ground, not noticing the tick marks from Rarity.

"Well...looks like they're back to normal, eh?" Kaede chuckled with a nervous smile.

"Hey! Someone mind telling me..." Jack took a deep breath and yelled "The fudge?!"

"Yeah, it's a long story..." Apple Bloom said, feeling guilty at about it.

"We made a love potion that was meant for Big Mac and Ms. Cheerilee, but you two came to the picnic area and drank the love potion." Carrie explained, rubbing her arm bashfully. "We're so sorry..."

"So that drink Jack found and gave to me was the love potion?!" Rainbow gaped at that before glaring angrily at him. "I knew I shouldn't have listened to you! I knew there was something suspicious about it, but noooo! You didn't want to listen!"

"How about you shut up, Skittles!" Jack retorted angrily, gritting his teeth. "If ya did thought it was suspicious, then why drink it in the first place?!"

"Because you told me to drink it to relax from our last argument!" Rainbow retorted.

"Well don't blame me because I was thirsty!"

"I do blame you for getting us to drink this mess! Along with getting me into that dress!"

"Well you don't look so nice in it! At least I have my dignity!"

"Well at least I have my awesomeness and smarts!"

"Well if you're so smart, then maybe you shouldn't have trusted me!"

"Yeah! Maybe so!" Rainbow flew off with an angry look on her face while Jack huffed and threw the ring on the ground and took his leave. We all stood silent and looked at each other in worried.

"Uh oh..." Jamie muttered.

"Uh oh, indeed..." Kodi nodded in agreement.

"Look at those two..." Ren sighed sadly before putting away his Hacking Gun and picking up the ring from the ground. "Those two always argued and now those two are becoming enemies."

"I know." Fluttershy agreed, walking next to Ren, along with Kodiak. "I know those two aren't friendly with each other, but this love potion spell tampered more with their friendship."

"And it's all our faults." Apple Bloom and the others looked down sadly as she continued "If we didn't make that love potion, then none of this would've happened."

"Y-yeah..." Carrie nodded. "What can we do?"

"I don't know..." I shrugged before noticing that there was some dirt on my new suit. "Oh...so sorry for ruining the suit, Rarity."

"N-no! It's quite alright Mason. I suppose I can clean this up." Rarity assured with a weak grin before frowning and looking around the place, seeing it as a mess. "Although, I do suppose we have to clean up this mess."

"True, I guess you can say this Hearts and Hooves Day turned badly..." Kaede muttered sadly. "And we haven't even had a chance to celebrate it yet."

"Yeah..." Ren nodded before widening his eyes a bit while he looked at the ring Jack had. "Guys, I think I have an idea."

"W-what? You do?" Jamie asked, feeling a bit surprised. 

"Yeah and if we work together, we can turn this bad day into the best Hearts and Hooves day ever." Ren grinned before he held Fluttershy's hoof tightly, causing her to blush with a soft and embarrassed grin.

"Alright, we're listening Ren." Twilight smiled, feeling quite eager to hear it from him.

"Alright, here's the plan..." Ren gestured us all to come together as he began to whisper the plan to us. Whatever it is, I suppose it could work. Although, I am quite surprised Ren came up with something like that. I guess underneath all that childish personality of his lies a kid with a hidden intellect.



Later
Ren's POV
"Come on Jack, you're gonna love it!" I assured with a grin as we walked through the path as it was already night time.

"If you guys are taking me to town to a nearby buffet, then don't. All they sell are crappy food made out of hay and not meat." Jack commented, his eyes being covered in a blindfold as Jamie and Kodiak led him straight towards our destination: Fluttershy's Cottage. You see, after Ren explained the plan to us, he managed to convince Jack to come out of his room and took him for a little surprise while the girls went to get and convinced Rainbow Dash to meet up at the backyard of Fluttershy's cottage.

"T-Trust us, you're really gonna like it." Jamie assured with a soft grin as we finally arrived to the backyard as Ren patted him on the back and said "Alright big guy, you can take off the blind fold."

Jack did so and once he did, he gawked upon seeing the place filled with decorations.

"What the hell? What the hell is all this for?" Jack questioned, raising a brow and walked around a bit.

"Tell me again where you're taken me?" Well looks like they're finally here. We turned around to see the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Carrie, Twilight, Fluttershy, Kaede, and Rarity pushing an agitated blind-folded Rainbow Dash into the scene. 

"Trust us, this is for your own good Rainbow Dash." Twilight stated before using her magic to remove the blindfold off of Rainbow Dash's eyes, only for her to gasp upon seeing the place, along with Jack.

The two glared angrily at each other and yelled "What the hell/hay are you doing here?!" 

"Look you two..." Mason intervened with a serious look and said "Before you two start arguing and possibly fight each other, Ren has something to say since this was his whole idea."

"Wait...what?!" Rainbow and Jack turned to me with angry and surprised looks as I stepped forward and said "Look you guys, you two need to forgive each other. We know you two have your differences, but I know you two have something in common. Like you two spend time with each other at the hospital, along with eating food and being hotheads."

"What's the point?" Jack snorted.

"Yeah, this guy isn't even 20% awesome as I am." Rainbow huffed.

"What you say Skittles?!" Jack exclaimed in anger.

"Rainbow Dash!" Twilight stepped up with a serious look on her face. "Jack didn't know about the love potion and you didn't even know about it too!"

"Y-yeah, but I did know that there was something off about it!" Rainbow retorted. 

"True, but you must know that you two drank it." Jamie pointing out. 

"W-well..."

"Ha! No comebacks!" Jack grinned, ignoring the angry look she was giving him.

"Look you guys! Just stop!" I exclaimed, gaining everypony's attention. "Look, what I'm trying to say is that you two may be different from gender and obviously, species, but you two need each other. You two are the boastful, hotheaded, friends we ever got! And you two should accept that!"

Jack and Rainbow Dash looked at each other, softening up their expressions.

"They're right." Scootaloo nodded as she and her friends stepped up with sad looks on their faces. "We're so sorry we got you into this mess."

"We were supposed to make my brother and our teacher fall in love with each other to make Ms. Cheerilee not feel lonely on Hearts and Hooves Day, but then you two showed up and drank the potion." Apple Bloom sighed sadly.

"But then we learn something from this experience..." Carrie twiddled her fingers before looking at Jack with a sad smile. "We learned that no matter how good our intentions might have been, we should have never meddled in your relationship."

"Nopony can force two ponies to be together." Scootaloo added.

"Not even humans." Apple Bloom agreed.

"It's up to everypony to choose that very special somepony for themselves." Sweetie Belle finished up, which made the rest of us smiled brightly at that. Mason came over and gave his sister a hug, causing her to smile as she embraced the hug. 

"I'm proud of you sister." Mason whispered through her ear.

"Thanks big brother." Carrie smiled.

"Amazing, a great lesson to remember." Jamie wrote it down in his notebook with a smile on his face. 

"Thanks for taking note of that, Jamie. I'll be sure to read over your journal and write that down to Princess Celestia." Twilight chuckled.

"O-oh no! I'll be sure to write it down to ya! Y-you know because you were w-working too hard and all that after what happened t-today!" Jamie offered, waving his hands with a blush on his face. 

"Umm...okay?" Twilight shrugged, raising a brow at him. Strange, wonder what's got him all riled up?

"Well all that settles, that still won't stop you from getting punishment for making that, right?" Mason reminded them, causing the crusaders to smile sheepishly at him.

"Don't worry, my brother already gave it us and we're going to do his chores for the rest of the day tomorrow after we went to go and help out Jack and Rainbow Dash from their love illness." Apple Bloom chuckled nervously.

"Well now..." Fluttershy turned to Jack and Rainbow Dash with a soft grin and asked "Do you two now forgive each other?"

Jack and Rainbow Dash looked at each other and let out grunts before turning their heads away before glancing at each other and sighed.

"Look...let's just apologize and get it over with." Rainbow and Jack apologized at the same time, causing them to chuckle a little.

"You first, big guy." Rainbow offered.

"Fine...sorry for making ya drink that potion, okay?" Jack grunted, looking away from her.

"And I'm sorry too for what I said earlier." Rainbow apologized with a soft smile. 

"It's okay, I'm used to it." Jack shrugged, causing some of us to raise concern on that. So he dealt with stuff like that? That's kinda sad, really. But he's a tough guy with a big heart, so I know he'll handle it. "But..." Jack turned back to Rainbow Dash with a tooth-eating grin and said "I gotta say, you look good in a dress."

Rainbow blushed in embarrassment at that before exclaiming "No I do not! I rather wear it when I go out into the Grand Galloping Gala!"

"I don't know what that is, and I don't care." Jack shrugged before his stomach started rumbling. "But man, I'm starving."

"Yeah, me too." Rainbow rubbed her stomach, along with Scootaloo and Carrie, who both grinned sheepishly, causing us all to laugh at that. "You know what? I guess we got off the wrong start, let's try to start over."

"Agreed...Skittles." Jack grinned, causing Rainbow Dash to widened her eyes at that before angrily asking "Hey! I thought we agreed to start over as friends!"

"True, but Skittles has a nice ring in it." Jack laughed, patting his gut. Rainbow Dash continued to glare at him before softening her expression with a soft smile and said "Very well, I guess you can call me Skittles...Fatty."

"Hey! Who are you calling Fatty?" Jack asked in an angry tone.

"Who are you calling Skittles?" Rainbow smirked at him, causing Jack to smirk back at her.

"Well played Skittles, well played..." Jack came over and wrapped an arm around her and said "You know what? You aren't bad yourself!"

"Same here!" Rainbow nodded.

"Well...looks like we finally got them to accept each other." Mason crossed his arms with a soft grin.

"Yeah, I'm glad these two forgave each other and became good friends." Kaede smiled brightly at them.

"Me too Kaede..." Rarity smiled before glaring angrily at Jack and Rainbow Dash before she exclaimed "But next time you want to trash somepony's home, do it somewhere else and not at my place!"

"R-Rarity! Calm down!" Kaede begged. "It was just an accident."

"Yes, they weren't themselves, remember?" Mason reminded her, which made Rarity cool off a bit.

"Very well...I forgive you two...for now." Jack and Rainbow Dash gulped at that before they looked at each other in worried. Oh, I know that feeling you two. I'm worried about that too.

"Now then, since we're here, should we have fun tonight?" I offered. "It's still Hearts and Hooves Day."

"Yeah! Let's party!" Kodi offered with a big grin.

"Yes please." Fluttershy nodded before asking "But maybe, not too loud. The animals in my home are sleeping, and how about we dance around?"

"I see why not." I shrugged.

"Yay." Fluttershy cheered, but in a soft tone. You know, she's kinda cute when she does something like that. 

"Ooh, a dance? I haven't even picked out a dress yet!" Rarity said with a shocked expression.

"It's quite alright Rarity. You can still dance with us." Mason offered his hand, surprising Rarity. "Shall we, milady?"

"O-oh..." Rarity blushed a bit before chuckling and replied "Very well...sir Mason."

Mason smiled back at her before they began dancing slowly while the Crusaders and Carrie cheered happily for them and began whispering to each other. I think I overheard them saying about a 'wedding' or something like that.

"That sounds like fun." Twilight smiled before turning to Jamie and asked "Why not we slow dance too, Jamie?"

"M-m-me?" Jamie blinked in surprise. "B-but I-I never slow danced before!"

"Don't worry Jamie, I don't know that either! So come on, let's go." Twilight pulled his hand and pulled him over to the dance floor, causing him to let out a yelp of surprise.

"Meh, you guys go and dance. I rather eat." Rainbow shrugged.

"Same here. Let's go over to Ponyville. I'm almost hungry as a grizzly bear." Jack rubbed his gut, causing Rainbow to laugh at that before she said "That's because you are like one!"

"N-nobody asked you for your opinion!" Jack yelled as he and Rainbow Dash were about to leave until I called out to them.

"Wait! Jack! You forgot this!" I threw Jack the ring he bought, which he managed to catch as he gaze over it, seeing the lightning bolt symbol on the gem. He smiled softly and nodded to me before he and Dash walked out of the cottage, leaving the rest of us alone while Mason, Rarity, Jamie, and Twilight slow danced with each other around the yard. I couldn't help but smile fondly at this, seeing that our first Hearts and Hooves Day became great, despite Jack and Rainbow Dash falling in love through that love potion of theirs. But overall, this turned out great.

"S-shall we too...Ren?" Huh? I turned around to see Fluttershy offering her hoof to me with a meek smile. I looked at her with a surprised look before feeling a push from Kodiak, who gave me an encouraging smile.

"Come on dude, go with her. You are her special somepony after all." Kodi grinned, causing me to smile at him.

"Thanks pal." I petted him on the head, which caused him to chuckle a little before I turned back and took her hoof and we began slow dancing with the others. I noticed Mason and Rarity smiling softly at each other, what with the white unicorn blushing a bit. Even Jamie was blushing like a red tomato as he danced slowly with Twilight. Wow, he must really be nervous doing this, huh?

I looked back at Fluttershy, who smiled softly at me as we continued doing while the other girls and Kodiak watched over with cheers and smiles on their faces. Soon, we finished it up with giving each other hugs. I glanced at Fluttershy and whispered "Sorry if I didn't get you a gift."

"It's alright, all I wanted for Hearts and Hooves Day was to celebrate it...with you." Fluttershy replied with a soft smile, surprising me a bit. 

"Well..." I formed a smile back at her before saying "I'm glad to be spending it with ya."

Fluttershy smiled at me as we let go of each other before giving each other a kiss on the lips while I noticed the others, including the ones who danced, watched us with smiles on their faces. I don't mind if they giving us sly looks or whatnot, I'm...quite fond of this. I've never been kiss by a girl before, and it feels...great.

And I really mean what I said to Fluttershy. No matter what worlds we are from, I'm glad to be a part of yours, and I think the others agreed with that as well.



Meanwhile
Rantaro was seen watching them slow dancing around the back of Fluttershy's cottage with a soft grin.

"Heh, those crazy kids and their girlfriends..." Rantaro muttered before forming a sly smirk and took out his phone and took a picture of them hugging each other, causing him to chuckle a bit.

"Well...this was worth it." Rantaro looked at the picture with a grin. "Oh well, too bad I ain't got a girlfriend, but what the heck? Bachelor forever."

With that, he put his phone away and took his leave back towards the home-ship, seeing the moon fully out as another day has passed from the great holiday of Hearts and Hooves/Valentine's Day.
To Be Continued
> Chapter 47 - A Frenemy Indeed!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hmm....nothing much really. Today's quite a boring day really. Oh, I didn't see you all out there. It's just me, Rantaro, exploring around Ponyville for my own businesses. Just because I'm narrating the story this time doesn't mean I get to tell ya what I like to do. But then again, this story will only involve...heh heh, me in it. Now then, let's get the story started.

So anyway, it was just another boring day here in Ponyville. I was off drinking some coffee that I bought from these 'bits' I managed to get from my clients around here. All I have to do was to sell the remaining apple cider from several weeks ago. I'm already out, but I was able to conned them out of stuff based on stuff that I managed to 'convince' the owners of them. Right now, I was taking a break. As a world-renowned 'Shadow Broker', I do need a break. Speaking of which, I'm always on break almost everyday when I'm traveling the world. But you know, I gotta say...ponies here know how to make a cold cappuccino drink. If there was a Starbucks here, then the ponies that sold it to me would get the job.

"Hiya Rantaro!" Huh? Oh great, it's her. 

"...What?" I asked irritably, feeling not in the mood to be in the same room with her. Really? I was busy taking a nice, relaxing walk around town and yet I get interrupted by her. Ugh, well this is just wasting my time as usual with these guys keeping a straight eye out for me.

"Oh! I just came by to say good morning to everypony in town!" Pinkie greeted with a bright smile. "When I saw you, I just wanted to say good morning to ya!"

"Well go away. I'm busy." I stated, drinking some of my cappuccino.

"Okie Dokie Lokie!" God, she's so annoying, even at day one. "But phew Ran! This day is so busy!"

"Ran?" I questioned, glancing towards her before finishing up my coffee.

"Yeah! Ran! Your newest nickname!" Pinkie clarified with a grin. "It's kinda similar to Ren's name because you're replacing the 'E' with 'A' in the middle between the-"

"I know what it means." I sighed. "Now can't you do something else while I'm busy minding my own business?"

"Oh sure! I gotta go and say good morning to all my friends in Ponyville!" Pinkie bounced excitedly around me before realizing something. "Oh...but it won't be morning if I keep staying around like this!"

"Well that's quite a downer." I chuckled.

Pinkie rubbed her head for a moment before grinning widely, and how irony loves to hit me upon seeing a post light underneath shining brightly, like she just got an idea.

"I got it!" I stand corrected. "This calls for a musical number!"

"I'm sorry, what?" I asked her with a raised brow. As if on cue, I began to hear some music playing around. Okay seriously, what's happening? 


Good Morning! - (Singing In The Rain)

Pinkie began bouncing off and greeted some ponies, along with Ren, Kodiak, and Fluttershy, who just happened to show up by coincidence.

(Pinkie Pie):
Good Morning

(Ren and Fluttershy):
Good Morning

(Pinkie, Ren, and Fluttershy):
We've talked the whole night through
Good Morning 
Good Morning to you

Pinkie bounced off and greeted with some ponies, along with Mason, Carrie, Rarity, and Sweetie Belle as they were buying some groceries together.

(Pinkie Pie):
Good Morning

(Mason, Carrie, Rarity, Sweetie Belle):
Good Morning

(Pinkie, Mason, Carrie, Rarity, Sweetie Belle)
It's great to stay up late
Good Morning
Good Morning to you

Pinkie tapped dance along with the crowd while I watched with a bored look, though I raised a brow at her. I just don't know what they're doing, but I do know that they're singing THAT song. She then tapped dance towards Applejack and her family, who were getting the groove of the beat.

(Applejack):
When the band began to play the stars were shining bright

(Apple Bloom):
Now the milkpony's on his way 
and it's too late to say good night

Pinkie grinned happily and bounced and backflipped and greeted more ponies, shouting out their names as the crowds began joining on the song, while Pinkie bumped into Kaede, Jamie, Twilight, and Spike.

(Pinkie Pie, Kaede, Jamie, Twilight, Spike):
So, Good Morning
Good Morning
Sun beams will soon smile through
Good Morning

Pinkie popped out of a barrel from god-knows-how and greeted some children ponies.

(Pinkie Pie):
Good Morning to you and you and you and you

Pinkie jumped out of the barrel and began tap-dancing, along with the rest of the crowd.

(Pinkie Pie):
Good Morning
Good Morning
We've gabbed the whole night through
Good Morning 
Good Morning to you 

(Choir):
Nothing could be grander than to be in Fillydelphia!

(Pinkie Pie):
In the morning 
In the morning
It's great to stay up late
Good Morning
Good Morning to you

(Choir):
I'd be as loser if it wasn't Vanhoover

(Pinkie Pie):
When we left the movie show the future wasn't bright
But came the dawn the show goes on 
and I don't want to say good night

(Choir):
So say good morning

(Pinkie Pie):
Good Morning

(Pinkie and Choir):
Rainbows are shining through

(Pinkie):
Good Morning

(Choir):
Good Morning!

(Pinkie Pie):
Bonjour 

(Choir):
Monsour

(Pinkie Pie):
Buenos Días

(Choir):
Muchas Frías

(Pinkie Pie):
Bongiorno

(Choir):
Montichorno

(Pinkie Pie):
Gutten Morgen 

(Choir):
Blakich Morgen

(Pinkie and Choir):
Good Morning to you

Pinkie and the ponies of Ponyville began dancing around, tap-dancing around while ponies used barrels as drums to drop that beat. I remained leaning against the wall, still drinking my cappuccino with a bored look. I wasn't the type to sing, but I'm not admitting that I can't sing, I just don't like singing that much. Besides, this is quite entertaining...in its own way, of course. Soon, the song began finishing dancing up with them making poses before everypony began walking off to mind their own business, along with Ren and co.



"Woo-hoo!" Pinkie cheered. "Oh boy, that felt great! I bet even the author wanted to do that as well!"

Pinkie gave a wink to someone, but there was no one around. She is quite the weird one of this group, is she?

"I'm not going to bother asking you who the hell were you talking to, but that'll be a pain the butt." I sighed before throwing my cappuccino drink in a nearby garbage can and began taking my leave, unfortunately, Pinkie Pie followed after me by bouncing next to me.

"Oh! Where you going?" Pinkie asked curiously.

"None of your business." I answered, not gazing straight at her. "Now can you leave me alone?"

"Aww, but I really want to know ya Ran!" Pinkie insisted, causing me to roll my eyes in annoyance. God, can't this pink fiend go find someone else to bother? Suddenly, I noticed someone was about to bump me before I began to stop.

"Huh?" I asked myself with two brows raised, seeing an elderly donkey guy pulling a cart filled with a bunch of junk. Oh wait, they all looked pretty good. I gotta say, I'm quite digging it, but...then again, I don't know if they hold any value to me or not. Actually, now that I think about, that's a talking donkey. Hmm, so I guess this world doesn't include talking ponies, huh?

"Excuse me..." He grumbled angrily as I got out of his way and looked at him with a grin. I gotta say, he sure got an attitude problem. I can tell.

"Ooh!" Pinkie chimed in as she got in front of the donkey, causing him to halt. "I've never seen you before!"

"Kid, you're smarter than you look." He said before walking past her and continued pulling the cart.

"Thanks!" Pinkie thanked.

"You do know he was being sarcastic, right?" I asked with a raised brow, but she ignored me as she began following after him. Well, I guess I got no choice but to follow them as well. I'm quite intrigued on this guy. And here I thought this world was all about ponies. Guess I was wrong, and if so, just what kind of other species are in this place?

"I'm Pinkie Pie!" The pink pony introduced herself. "What's your name?" She looked over at the back of his cart and read the plate that was apparently attached to the back of his cart. "Property of C.D.D."

I couldn't help but let out a snicker and said "Well I bet my money that the last 'D' means 'Donkey', right?"

"Quick as a whip...uhh..." He eyed at me for a second, wondering what the heck am I. 

"Wilde. Rantaro Wilde and I'm one of the humans living in this boring little town." I answered with a wave and grin. 

"Ahh..." He nodded, not showing any care about it. This donkey is quite tough, I'll admit.

"Now, how bout that 'C'?" Pinkie popped right in front of him, shocking him at that. I still don't get how she does that, but I gotta say, it's quite impressive. "Hmm...Calvin? Calhoun? Caleb? Carl? Carmine? Carlo? Charlie? Chest? Chico? Claudio? Cletus-"

"Or how about you let him ask." I insisted, smiling while trying my best to keep my anger  at bay. You all see me with a smile on my face, looking sarcastic and cheery, but that's because I learned to keep my emotions in check. Whenever someone like a little pink pony loves to be chatty, I tend to get easily bored, annoyed, and/or angry. 

"Heh, quite polite for some weird monkey." I'm sorry, what? "It's...Cranky."

"Oh, okay!" Pinkie nodded before asking "What about the second 'D'?"

"...Doodle..." He grumbled.

"What was that?" Pinkie asked, not hearing what he said.

"Doodle..." He spoke up a little louder.

"What?"

He looked at her with a frustrated look before sighing heavily and said "....Doodle."

"Wait...you're name is Cranky Doodle Donkey?" I asked, feeling a bit surprised upon hearing this.

"Yes?" He nodded, giving me a look of confusion and irritation. I looked at him for a while before letting out a loud laughter.

"AH HA HA HA HA! Oh my god! That's gotta be the most hilarious yet ridiculous name I've ever heard up till now! And I thought some stupid names like Pinkie Pie were hilarious!" Rantaro laughed.

"Tee-hee! Well I'll admit that my name is quite hilarious!" Pinkie giggled, not bothered about what I said about her name. "But wow! So you're a Cranky Doodle Donkey?"

She began bouncing around Cranky and began singing while both my laughter and her singing were making her more and more upset.


You're a Cranky Doodle Donkey guy.
A Cranky Doodle Donkey.
I never met you but you're my new friend
and I'm your best friend Pinkie Pie!


Soon, my laughter died down to notice Cranky's unamused look as Pinkie came over and stretched his fact a bit in a weird way with his flaps somehow making a really huge smile as she said "Come now, Doodle! Give a smile!"

"Yeah Doodle, got a problem?" I asked with an amused smirk.

And just like that, his flaps fell down, making him loose his smile as he glared angrily at us and exclaimed "Nopony calls me Doodle!"

Whoa, what's his problem?...Wait, he doesn't want people or ponies to call him 'Doodle'? Hmm, well I do say that his name may something important to him? It's best if I keep my eye out for him.

Huh? Oh, looks like he's leaving in a huff. And we just started to get to know each other. That's pretty sad.

"What just happened?" Pinkie asked herself as suddenly, the whole town I was in suddenly disappeared and I was floating in a blue empty space, much to my surprise.

"Whoa! What the?" I asked myself as a furry picture of Pinkie and Cranky old donkey meeting each other.

"Meet somepony new, check. Introduce myself, check." Wait, is Pinkie checking herself from the things we've just done? Because the pictures keep changing by everything we've so far, except it looks...too 3D-ish. "Become instant best friends...uncheck!"

Soon, the whole blue space area disappeared and I was back on the streets of this pony infested town with my brows raised in surprise from what I just experience. Well that was quick, I'll admit.

"I don't get it, Ran! How can somepony not become instant best friends with me? Was it something I said? Was it something I sang?" Pinkie asked me in worried while she walked back and forth in circles around me. I blinked in surprise before commenting "Has anyone ever tell you you're the weirdest pony anyone's ever met?"

"Weird?" Pinkie questioned before giggling at that. "Nah, I prefer the word 'hilarious'."

"Whatever, besides, who would become best friends with ya?" I asked her, much to Pinkie's confusion. "What I mean is that not every one of these ponies are gonna be your friend."

"But...everypony here are my friend." Pinkie stated. "We all said good morning this morning!"

"Okay, that's because ponies here are stupid and naive." I retorted, glancing at her annoyingly. "Look, just because everyone's nice, doesn't mean everyone is gonna be your friend. I mean, I don't think you even want to be friends with criminals."

And how ironic that is.

"Sure you can!" Huh? Now what she's up to? "I mean, sure we can befriend any bad guys like Nightmare Moon and Discord."

"Who and who?" I asked.

"Nothing important!" It sounded something very important if you said those names. I mean, Nightmare Moon? Discord? What the hell kinda names are they? "But anyway! I'll prove ya wrong Ran that I can make everypony my friend! Even you!"

"What?" I am not liking the sound of that.

"Yeah! I haven't even planned a 'Welcome to Ponyville' Party for ya!" Pinkie said before widening her eyes in realization. "Hey, speaking of which...I haven't for Jamie and Jack! Oh man, thanks a lot author, how could you make me forget that throughout Season 2?"

...Somebody out there, get this pony to an asylum because I think she got a few loose screws. 

"Sure, go knock yourself out." I waved it off before taking my leave. "Besides, I'm telling ya. Not everybody in the world is gonna be your friend."

"Well I'm gonna prove ya wrong Ran! I'm gonna make Cranky my best friend! Just you wait!" Pinkie yelled, popping right in front of me. "Besides, I have a genuine plan on how to make him my best friend!"

"If it's singing, dancing while you remained chatty with him, then that's gonna be pointless. Besides, if I joined ya, all I'll do is just laugh and see your plan fall in misery...then laugh some more on you moping." I chuckled.

"Hey, you know, can't you just be nice?" Pinkie pouted.

"Nope. I just like stating my opinions." I shrugged. 

"Hey, you keep doing that and nopony will ever be your friend with your weird, mysterious ways. In fact, I don't think anypony would come to your 'Welcome to Ponyville' Party." Pinkie pointed out. However, I let out a snicker and smirked.

"That's fine, I would've been the only one there anyway." I shrugged before walking off. "Good luck with whatever you're gonna do with that Cranky old donkey, not my problem."

"Okay!" Wow, she really's gonna do it? She's really that determined to win him as her friend? That sounds just...pathetic and stupid. Oh well, it doesn't matter. What matters is finding some nice info about this place.

I took out my phone and began checking it over out of bordeom. Seriously though, can't this place even think about maybe...I don't know, build satellites, or maybe electric towers? This is just tiring to have an Iphone 7 that can't find a good WiFi signal.




Later
Nope...nothing yet. I've been searching all day, but no luck. I was walking through the pathway that has some trees around the place. Even here, I can't get a good WiFi signal. Well that ship me and the others were sleeping has a great WiFi connection there, but I can't call any of my clients at all. Hmm...well I know that some of them are...elusive as you might put it due to me being a broker and all that crap, but they always answer my calls. So why aren't they calling me? More importantly, why did I ever got into this mess in the first place? This never happened before....



H-huh? Is that me? I saw myself with some sort of machine on my head, and I had my eyes closed with a nonchalant look on my face. I don't get it, what's going on here exactly?

"Hmm...I guess even now, you still don't get it, do ya? You still wouldn't care about what happens to others, right? Not even...me?" 

Huh? What just happened? What I just say?



"Tch!" I muttered, putting my hand on my head with a frustrated look on my face. What the hell was that? Nah, it's probably nothing. Just a minor headache...or was it?

"Oh! Are you okay young fella?" Huh? Now what? I turned around to see someone looking at me with a worried look. However, which caught me by surprise, and by the way, I am hiding this emotion with a calm look, just showing off two raise brows of slight surprise, but anyway, what I saw was a donkey, and no, it wasn't that old Cranky old donkey, but a female looking one. Hmm, now I know this isn't a coincidence on meeting another donkey in one day.

"H-huh? Nothing much, just a minor headache." I stated before mumbling "And some weird vision."

"Well that's a relief." The female donkey sighed in relief before smiling over at me. "When I noticed you putting your hand over your head, I felt something was wrong."

"I told ya, just a headache." I sighed in exasperation, but tried to hide that tone from her. "Anyway, darling, I never gotten your name."

"Oh, my name is Matilda. I live just up a house around here." She finally introduced herself before asking "Umm...and you are?"

"Wilde. Rantaro Wilde." I tipped my hat to her with an amused smile.

"Oh, it's quite nice to meet you Mr. Wilde." She greeted me with a smile.

"Mr. Wilde? No no, Mr. Wilde was my father. You can call me Rantaro." I chuckled while also hiding my grimace on that. Mr. Wilde...

"Oh, of course sweetie." Matilda smiled brightly. "But you know, this is my first time talking to a human right now."

"Really? You never talked to the others?" I asked with a raised brow.

"Well I've heard and seen about them, but never gotten the chance to talk to them in pony." Matilda explained. "But anyway, I was wondering what was somepony like you doing here?"

"What? You think I'm dangerous?" I asked with an amused brow.

"Oh Celestia's sake, no! Of course not! Well I mean, you may be a broker, but...I know you aren't that dangerous, right?" She asked in concern. I glanced at her for a moment before I replied "Nope. Not dangerous as what the others say."

"O-oh okay! I was just wondering about that." Matilda smiled softly at that. "I was busy taking a nice stroll until I saw you...you know."

"Yeah, I get it." I shrugged with a smirk. "I guess it's quite a thing to bump into others while you're lost in thought."

"Well...something like that." Matilda chuckled.

"But you know...it's quite weird that I bumped into another donkey." I stated, which confused her.

"Oh? What do you mean?" Matilda asked in confusion.

"Heh, geez, news sure is slow around town." I shrugged and shook my head with an amused smile. "Just to tell ya, there's another donkey in town. Not that I really care due to that grouchy attitude of his."

"R-really?" Matilda asked, slowly growing surprise. "I-is that...true? There's another donkey here?"

"Yeah? So?" I asked, glancing at her suspiciously. She widened her eyes in shock before muttering "It couldn't be..."

"What?" Unfortunately, my question wasn't answer as she immediately dashed off, leaving me behind. Well that was rude. Actually, now that I think about it...Hmm, unless....Ah! So she does know him. Heh heh, this shall be fun.



Later
Well, another hour or two came as I was busy off exploring this little town. Nothing turned out much really. Besides, investigating this place has taken its poll. I mean, I haven't found anything except learned more about this place. Apparently, it was founded out by someone called Granny Smith one hundred years ago and she still lives today. Now I know that is quite rare to see old people, or ponies, to still live to this day. But I'm sure you all knew that info anyway.

"I just can't believe it. Cranky said he would never forever be my friend." Huh? I looked over by the window of the Golden Oaks Library to look over to see Twilight, Jamie, Pinkie, Rainbow Dash, and Jack. "It was horrible."

"D-don't feel bad Pinkie. I-I'm sure he'll forgive you soon." Jamie assured. "I-I mean, he just needs his privacy, after all."

"Jamie's right." Twilight agreed. "I know this is hard for you, Pinkie, seeing that you're friends with everypony, but you just have to accept that Cranky is gonna be an exception. He just...doesn't want to be bothered."

"Yeah, he doesn't want to be bothered by your over-the-top super-hyper antics." Rainbow commented.

"And your frigging weirdness." Jack added.

"Rainbow! Jack!" Twilight scolded.

"G-guys! You're not helping the situation!" Jamie pointed out.

"What? We're just saying." Jack shrugged. "I mean, not everyone in this world is gonna be your friend. You also have enemies and rivals in this. I know this by experience."

Well of course you would know because you're an outlaw biker.

"No, no, it's okay, Twilight and Jamie." Pinkie sighed. "I get what you're all saying. And I guess...I can leave Cranky alone..."

Jamie and Twilight looked at each other with relieved grins, but wasn't expecting what else Pinkie said.

"Right after he accepts my apology!" With that, she quickly dashed off right out of the library, nearly getting the door to flip open straight towards me. Phew, that was a close one. 

"...I frigging knew that she wouldn't give up that easily." I rolled my eyes at his comment. Like he would know. Oh well, it's best I find out what's up with them.

"Knock-knock." I said, banging on their door as I gained all of their attention, much to Dash and Jack's irritation. Heh, they still haven't forgotten about my true identity as well as what happened back at their little Cider Season adventure.

"Oh, R-Rantaro. It's a pleasure to see you again..." Jamie weakly smiled at me. 

"Yeah, yeah, cut all the crap Jamie." I said, causing him to flinch a bit. "Anyway, I just came by to see what's up."

"Really?" Rainbow Dash gave me a suspicious gaze as she put down her little book and said "And just what suspicious activity are you up to?"

"Rainbow Dash!" Twilight cut in, not wanting any of us to argue until Jack stepped in.

"Hey! We have the right to tell him to back off! Just hearing and seeing him just makes me wanna beat this little piece of crap." Jack threatened through gritted teeth.

"Just stop talking. The grown-ups are talking here." I said with a smirk on my face, upsetting him even more. "Anyway, what was up with little miss pink pony? She looked pretty upset and dashed right past me."

"Well Pinkie told us that she was trying her best to make herself Cranky's new friend, but it only made things worse than before, and Cranky told her that she'll never be her friend anymore." Twilight explained. "I was hoping she might learned her lesson at least..."

"Well can you blame her? Her brain is as the sized of a bubblegum...no, a raisin." I commented, picking my ear a bit. "Besides, I can't blame Cranky. If one of you were in his hooves, you all would've felt the same thing as he felt when being bothered by someone like her."

"That's not true!" Twilight retorted. "Sure, Pinkie is quite...random at times. But she is a great friend and we respect her for being who she is!"

"Who's 'we' if I might ask?" I asked with a raised brow. "It sounds two of your 'friends' over there don't share the same idea."

"Hey! I know what I said wasn't right!" Rainbow retorted. "But she's a good friend and you know that!"

"Yeah! Who gives you the right to tell us some crap like that!" Jack added, causing me to let out a snicker.

"Really? And not you yourself didn't want to believe in it? Despite after you kept pleading on finding your way home, in an aggressive state no less?" I reminded him, causing him to screamed angrily before he grabbed my tie and pulled me closer to his face with gritted teeth, almost having the urge to punch me in the face. However, I wasn't afraid of him. I dealt with guys like him in my days when I started out as a broker.

"You little piece of crap! Like you would care since you don't have any friends because of who you are!" Jack yelled.

"J-Jack! P-please stop!" Jamie begged, causing Jack to glare angrily at him as he hissed "What?!"

"N-nothing!" Jamie backed away in fear, feeling terrified upon seeing the biker like this. I gave him an amused smirk and said "You're right. I don't have friends...well, at least Gizmo."

And on cue, Gizmo popped out of my hat and gave me a thumbs up before snarling at Jack, who let out an annoyed grunt at him. 

"What are you getting at?" Jack asked irritably.

"What I'm saying is that you guys think you'll be best friends forever, but sooner or later, they'll abandoned you later." I scoffed, causing Jack to give me a dangerous glare.

"Rantaro, what do you mean? We would never betrayed each other. More importantly, me and my friends will always have my back." Twilight retorted, giving me a scolded look. 

"You say that, but it's the truth." I shrugged nonchalant, along with Gizmo.

"Well guess what? It'll never happen because we're a team!" Rainbow scoffed with a smirk. "We always got each other's back and I'll never leave Twilight's side!"

"Damn straight! I never leave a man, woman, child, or pony behind!" Jack added, giving her a toothy grin. I rolled my eyes at this nonsense and said "You say that, but I know that'll happen. Everyone, even ponies have their ways on how friendship works. Personally, I never had a friend in my life. Just partners who make quick and easy deals with me back in the underground."

"O-okay, but still...you should at least b-be our friend?" Jamie suggested with a weak grin.

"Sorry, no deal." I shrugged. "Besides, if you all are good friends, then why don't you completely trust me?"

"W-we trust you!" Jamie retorted. "I-it's just that..."

"And there you have it, you guys don't even trust me yet because of who I am." I smirked. "But whatever, I'm used to these things anyway." 

"Rantaro..." Twilight looked at me with a concern look. "Is there something in your mind that you wish to talk about? We'll trust you if you just tell us what's in your mind and how you're feeling?"

I looked at them for a while before rolling my eyes and grinned. "Yeah, sorry girl. I have no time with ya. Now I shall take my leave, right Gizmo?"

Gizmo nodded before using his bushy tail on Jack's nose, causing him to sneeze, loosening the grip as he let go of my tie and we made our get-away.

"H-HEY!" Jack yelled as Gizmo hid back inside of my hat, but not before we gave each other a high-five. Sooner or later, I saw Jack chasing after me throughout the streets. "GET BACK HERE YOU! WHEN I GET MY GRUBBY LITTLE HANDS ON YA! I'LL MAKE SURE YOU WON'T LIVE TO SEE ANOTHER DAY!"

"Ooh, so you're admitting you are fat, eh?" I smirked, causing Jack to scream angrily at me again as we hid behind a dark alleyway and hid inside of a garbage can. I peeked over to see Jack looking around and seeing me gone for good, causing him to huff before running off to find me.

Heh heh, sucker. Me and Gizmo snickered before getting out of the trashcan and began exiting our way out of there. Heh, looks like the fat biker is going to taking a long while when he's searches for me.

As me and Gizmo began walking through the streets while everypony else looks at us in confusion, wondering what the hell was the commotion was all about before they just shrugged it off and resumed back to their normal business. Yeah, that's right. Just pretend you didn't see anything.

"Rantaro! Rantaro!" Huh? Wasn't that Matilda's voice? What now? I turned around to see Matilda racing over to me before halting to a stop and trying to catch her breath.

"Great, now what?" I asked with a raised brow.

"Oh! It's just about what you said to me about a new visitor in town!" Matilda answered before taking something off her back, revealing some sort of scrapbook before she opened it and revealed to me a picture of her and another donkey, only except that they were younger and that other donkey looked almost like...Yep, I knew there was a connection between that donkey and her.

"I was wondering if this was the donkey you've seen?" Matilda asked curiously. I looked at her for a while and sighed "Very well, I'll tell ya what I know...for ten bits."

"R-Really?" Matilda asked incredulous.

"Yeah, that's all." I shrugged. "But don't bother to pay if my price is-"

"Well sure! Here!" She placed ten bits into the palm of my hands, slightly surprising me a bit.

"Huh...that was quick. You're seriously eager, huh?" I asked.

"Well if it is Cranky, then I need to see him right now! I can't believe that all these years..." Matilda said, feeling joy upon hearing this. She just willingly gave me this money like it was nothing at all in order to see Cranky? Well, that's quite surprising. "Please, where is Cranky?"

"...I think I have an idea." I shrugged before gesturing her to follow me. It's quite simple really, follow the pink pony and you find the Cranky old donkey himself.



Later
And it looks like I stand corrected. Apparently, it wasn't that hard to find Pinkie Pie as we followed some info from some ponies as they saw a wagon in front of a small cabin house out south in Ponyville. And what's better is Pinkie Pie was there as she continued to knock on the old donkey's door.

"Cranky? It's me again. I understand that you don't wanna be my friend or accept my apology..." Pinkie took a deep breath and sighed. "Before I leave you alone forever, I have something to at least try to make up for ruining your book."

"No, I don't want it, kid! Anything you would give me is sure to lead to some sort of disaster!" We heard Cranky yelled throughout the door, not wanting to be bothered and/or humiliated by Pinkie herself.

"Goodness, you really are cranky." Matilda commented bluntly, which caught Pinkie by surprise.

"Whoa! Ran! Matilda?! What are you doing here?!" Pinkie exclaimed in surprise. "Ooh! Are you here to accompany me with a surprise yet tearful apology to Cranky?"

"No, just thought I brought her here. She says that she's...acquainted to him." I stated, which made Pinkie widened her eyes in shock. 

"No way!" Pinkie gasped. 

"Yes, Pinkie." Matilda nodded before walking over to the door and knocked on the door.

"I said go away!" We heard Cranky exclaimed angrily.

"Cranky...it's me." Matilda said softly. We waited for five seconds for him to come out until we heard the locks and chains jangling and unlocking from the inside as the door opened, revealing a shocked Cranky upon seeing who it was. He jaw-dropped upon seeing Matilda before heading back inside and came back inside wearing a golden toupee. Strange, didn't he wear a black toupee? Well if I had to guess, I say that Pinkie Pie has something to do with this.

"It can't be...Is it really you?" Cranky asked, examining Matilda.

"It can, and it is." Matilda replied with a soft and joyful smile.

Cranky looked at her in shocked before he said "Matilda! But how?"

"Rantaro." She answered, pointing over to me.

"But...I never told you about her!" Cranky complained.

"You didn't have to. I told her about you when we first met each other earlier, and she just ran off before coming back and telling me if you were the donkey in the photo." I answered with a shrug. "And I gotta say, what a coincidence that a donkey like her knows a donkey like you."

"Ooh! Now I get it!" Pinkie grinned. "It's because in Cranky's scrapbook, there was a flower, an old ticket, and a menu from the Grand Galloping Gala! And I thought I knew I've seen those things before!"

"But how could you have ever seen them before?" Cranky questioned.

"Because I also have them in my scrapbook." Matilda answered, showing her scrapbook to him about the items Pinkie described.

"And she showed it to me when she came to me to confirm if you were the one she was talking about." I added, picking my ear a bit. Cranky walked over Matilda as she showed him his book, making Cranky old donkey feel...joy, but he wasn't smiling, but was gonna tell us the story.

Soon, my surroundings began to turn differently, switching black and white as I was somewhere in some ballroom where I saw different ponies wearing suits. 

"Oh, Matilda. The night we met at the Gala was the most magical night of my life."

"What?" I asked myself before noticing two younger ponies. What exactly is going on here? Am I...seeing a flashback of theirs?

Soon, I saw young Matilda giving young Cranky a kiss on the cheek, causing him to pant happily at that as she giggled at his reaction before they walked deeper into the ballroom. The scene changed as I witnessed them wrapping their hooves to each other. So this is how they tried to start out their relationship. Well, this is weird way on how to tell a story, so why am I seeing this exactly?

Soon, the scene changed again to some fancy room as I looked over to my right and saw young Cranky entering the room with a happy smile, but one look of the place caused him to frown sadly.

"But when I came to your room the next day, you were gone." So this is how it happened? So where did Matilda go that day?

"Didn't you get my note?" Note? Soon, as young Cranky closed the door and left, I saw the note attached to the door as it fluttered down and landed on the ground as I gave out a deadpanned look. Seriously? Unbelievable....

The scene changed again as I watched over the young Cranky walking out of a big city with a determined look on his face. 

"No, I never got it. Ever since that day, I've gone from town to town to town, searching all over Equestria for you..." The scene changed to different towns, along with Cranky aging throughout the years, losing his stylish mane in the process and replacing it with a toupee. All of this because he never gotten her note? Well, that was completely stupid. You think you would looked around the room to search it out.

Soon, I was back in reality as I saw Cranky looking down with guilt and depression. Well that was certainly a weird way to tell a backstory, what with seeing their little flashback. Wonder how that happened.

"Until finally, I gave up. I came to Ponyville to retire from my search." Cranky sighed.

Matilda gave him a soft grin and stated "But I was living in Ponyville the whole time. I always hoped that someday you would come and find me...Doodle."

"...Yep, now she's quite desperate for him to start a relationship if she called him by his middle name." I commented bluntly, blinking in surprise with an amused smirk.

"But..." Pinkie turned to me, feeling awkward about that. "Nopony calls him Doodle."

Cranky must've overheard our conversation as he turned over to us and said "Yes, nopony calls me Doodle...but Matilda."

Matilda nuzzled him, which he nuzzled her back. Pinkie slowly began to form a smile while I smirked at them. 

"Oh Doodle, I'm so happy to see you." Matilda gives him a kiss at the moment the sun started to set down while Cranky slowly widened his eyes in shock before letting out a big grin on his face, along with donkey noises.

"Well...looks like he's happy." I shrugged, with Gizmo popping out of my fedora and nodded in agreement.

"So..." Pinkie looked at Cranky with a hopeful look on her face as she asked "Does this mean that you accept my apology?"

"Yes, Pinkie, I accept your apology, and I am honored to call you my friend." Cranky nodded.

At those exact words, Pinkie slowly began shaking before blasting into the air, leaving a pink trail behind as she exploded like fireworks. 

"Woo-hoo! This is just fantastic!" Pinkie exclaimed happily before landing back down on the ground with an excited grin. "Ooh, now we can hang out together and chat and sing songs and...Oh! Party! Oh, I have to throw you guys a big party! It'll be called the 'Welcome to Ponyville/I Found my Lost Love/I'm BFF's with Pinkie Pie' Party!"

"...Kinda a mouthful if you ask me." I stated, looking at her with a blank stare.

"...Or maybe something less over-the-top and not so super-hyper."

"Pinkie, we're eternally grateful to you." Cranky said with a grin before he turned to Matilda, who was smiling over at him. "But...Matilda and I just want to spend some time together in peace and quiet."

"Oh. Um, but we're still friends, right?" Pinkie asked with a smile.

"Pinkie, you went way, way, way out of your way to make me happy. Of course we're friends." Cranky nodded.

"Great!" Pinkie grinned.

"And..." Cranky turned to me with a soft smile and said "Thank you for reuniting me with Matilda as well."

"I didn't do much. It felt like the pink pony did something than me." I said, letting out a smirk. 

"No Rantaro, you done so well to help me find Cranky, and I thank you for that." Matilda smiled. "If I hadn't met you back at my home, then I wouldn't have learned that Cranky was here in Ponyville all along!"

"Technically, you would think he would've come out of his cabin to at least buy something other than chatty with ponies." I shrugged while Cranky chuckled sheepishly at that, knowing that was true. "But nonetheless, your welcome."

"Hey! I help too!" Pinkie whined.

"Yes, and you just annoyed the living crap out of Cranky." I reminded her, causing her to pout.

"No no, you guys did so much for us. You all deserved the credit." Cranky chuckled. 

"Whatever." I shrugged nonchalant. "Although...you two missed a lot of years with each other. Are you sure you can even get in a relationship?"

"Never say never, Rantaro." Matilda smiled at Cranky, who smiled back at her. "We're gonna try our best to make up the years. Come along Cranky."

"After you Matilda." Cranky offered as he walked over and opened the door for Matilda, much to her amusement as they both entered the place and closed the door. 

"Wowie-zowie! That was so awesome! I knew I've seen that scrapbook before, but I never thought about it from where I've seen it before!" Pinkie smiled.

"Yeah, yeah, whatever. Look, I'm about to take my leave..." With that, I began to take my leave until Pinkie stopped me.

"Whoa whoa whoa, Rantaro! Aren't you excited that you reunited two long lost lovebirds?!" 

"No. Not really. Besides, if I wasn't around, I think you would've done it yourself." I stated, putting my hands on my pockets.

"Well still, you were quite helpful." Pinkie smiled before hugging me tightly. "And what's better is that thanks to you, you managed to get Cranky to become my BFF!"

"No...problem." I nodded before she ended the hug. Man, for an hyper-active pony, she sure knows how to give out hugs. She hasn't been taking any coffee lately, has she?

"And you know what, I came up with a great letter for Princess Celestia!" Pinkie immediately took out a paper and quill out of her mane, causing me to raise a brow at her. I am not going to question on how she did that, but whatever. It's her logic, not mine.

Dear Princess Celestia,
There are many different kinds of friends, and many way to express friendship. Some friends like to run and laugh and play together. But others just like to be left alone, and that's fine too. But the best thing about friendship is being able to make your friends smile.

Make your friends smile...well that's something to remember at least. Soon after finishing up the letter, she put it back in her mane and said "I'll give it to Twilight to send to the princess!"

"You mention about this 'Princess Celestia'. Is she the ruler of this world?" I questioned.

"Yep yep yep! She's quite the nicest princess of all of Equestria, along with her sister, Princess Luna. Though we never got into a good start of getting to know each other, long story, but-" I put my hand on her muzzle with a 'SHH' sound.

"Please, stop. Just...stop. I think I'll found out myself." I sighed. "Well...guess it's time for me to take my leave...bye."

With that, I began to take my leave and just wanted to be left alone. I had no time to waste more time like this. This is just wasting more time on relaxing and such.

"Ooh! Rantaro!" I looked back at Pinkie, who gave me a soft smile. "You wouldn't mind if ya came to the 'Welcome to Ponyville' Party, will ya? I think you might like it."

She gave me the old puppy-dog stare, which caused me to raise a brow at her. Man, it's the oldest trick in the book. Although...I am quite intrigued on how her parties goes.

"...Whatever. I'll go." I replied, glancing away from her. Soon, I heard another rumble coming out of her as she blasted into the sky again and yelled "YAHOOOOO! YES! HE SAID YES!"

...I'm starting to regret on accepting her invitation now.

"Pinkie Pie!" I heard the two donkey lovers yelled at her, wanting their peace and quiet. Pinkie Pie overheard this as she landed back on the ground with no scratches as she let out a sheepish chuckle.

"Whoops, privacy. Sorry." And that's just really humiliating. Oh well, I am quite intrigued to see where this goes to.



Later
Well...I'll admit, this party is quite...fantastic. Sooner or later at night time, everypony in town came over to our 'Welcome to Ponyville' Party, and what do you mean by 'our'? Well I mean me, Cranky, Jamie, and Jack since we never gotten one ourselves since first arriving to this planet. Well I gotta admit, that pink pony knows how to throw a party, almost like one of those Las Vegas parties I once went to. We were even having it at the Ponyville Park, since it was Pinkie's suggestion.

"Man! This is so epic!" Kodi commented, eating a bowl filled with red velvet cake.

"I know right? It's been a long while since we had a party like this." Ren chuckled, eating some cake with some of his friends.

Well, glad that he's enjoying it. I noticed Jack glaring angrily at me while he had a conversation with Rainbow Dash, Kaede, Mason, and Applejack. Guess he still hasn't gotten over with what happened with me earlier. But I don't let it get the best of me.

Soon, I was seen over at the nearby table eating some cake. You know, it ain't half-bad.

"So...enjoying the party?" I glanced over to my right to see Jamie and Twilight walking over with soft smiles on their faces.

"What do you think?" I asked, having the feeling to leave.

"Well it looks like you are." Twilight giggled. "Come on, you don't have to be shy."

"I'm not shy. Just bored." I shrugged.

"Well you should e-enjoy it. I never had a party in honor in me. Let alone my birthdays....alone with my family." Jamie sighed, while I looked at him curiously. Huh, I guess I wasn't far-off with him not having a good childhood.

"Well at least you're enjoying your time here Jamie." Twilight smiled at him, who nodded in agreement.

"Yeah..." Jamie nodded in agreement before turning to me with a soft and nervous grin and said "Although, I am quite amazed that you were able to reunite Crankey and Matilda together. We're proud of ya, Rantaro."

"It was just a coincidence to help out, that's all." I answered. 

"No it wasn't. You were just trying to be helpful, that's all." Twilight stated before looking past me as I glanced over to my left and saw Cranky and Matilda dancing with each other while I shook my head in amusement. Yep, looks like Cranky old donkey is finally enjoying his time here in Ponyville. 

"We're glad you helped out." Twilight smiled. 

"A-and also...do you think maybe you should apologize to Jack later? He's been glaring dangerously at you." Jamie pointed out. "I-I really don't wanna to see you guys try to kill each other..."

"Don't worry, I'll apologize to him...later." I shrugged, causing him and Twilight to sigh heavily.

"And once again, you never cease to amaze us." Twilight shook her head while I gave her an amused grin.

"That's how I roll, toots." I shrugged.

"YAHOO!" Huh? We looked over to see Pinkie Pie dancing around the food table, dancing around before pulling out a miniature cannon out of her mane and pulled the cord, releasing confetti out of it.

"Is that even legal to own a cannon?" I questioned with a raised brow.

"No...it's a Pinkie thing. Don't ask." Jamie sighed tiredly. This pink pony...is definitely gonna need to go to asylum or two.

"Come on everypony! Let's dance around and do the Conga in honor of our new friends here in Ponyville!" Everypony let out a loud cheer and began doing the congo, which was formed with Ren, Kodiak, Kaede, Fluttershy, Rarity, Mason, Carrie, the little filly friends of her, Jack, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Big Mac, Granny Smith, Jamie, Spike, Twilight, Cranky, Matilda and Pinkie Pie at the end. I stand alone while those who couldn't do the Congo with them just cheered loudly at them. I leaned against a nearby tree and let out an amused smirk.

It's nice to see them get along like good little kids. Even though this party is wasting my time, I am enjoying my time here. What should've been investigating for more info and clues about our situation turned out into a reunion between two donkeys. And hopefully...my own reunion with him...

I took out my phone and looked at the background of the picture of my Iphone 7, showing off a picture of a young brown curly haired boy with a man with a noticeable short brown beard and brown hair like me, but quite older, presumably in his early 40s. One day...I'll found the answers I want. I became a broker for a reason in order to find him out...I will one day find you...father.

"Hey Rantaro!" Huh? I looked over to see Ren and the others still doing the Congo. "Aren't you going to join in on the fun?" Ren asked with an amused smile.

"Yeah! Come on! Join in on the fun!" Pinkie added.

"Hell yeah! This party is all about us!" Jack laughed loudly while I looked at them for a while before forming a smirk on my face.

"Well...guess I got no choice. Would be fun anyway." I shrugged before putting my phone away and went to join on the Congo, at the very end with Pinkie Pie, Cranky, and Matilda.

"Woo-hoo! Isn't this exciting Cranky?" Matilda asked him, who smiled softly at her and nodded before he replied "I sure am, Matilda!"

You know what? I was wrong. These two will definitely get together and make up for the years they've lost together. Heh, I guess even in your old days, the love inside of your heart will never fade away...just like mine.
To Be Continued
> Chapter 48 - Stand Up For Yourself! Putting Your Hoof Down!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"No! You aren't gonna make me!"

"Come on Kodi! Just get in the tub!" 

Jesus, how is it so hard to get him into the bathtub?! Today was just any other normal day for us after celebrating Pinkie's 'Welcome to Ponyville Party' for Rantaro, Jack, and Jamie. I was in Fluttershy's cottage just for another quick lesson with her, and she found Kodi hasn't taken a bath in months and thought that we could give him a bath, but apparently, it isn't working out. He's too stubborn to even get into the bath!

"Please Kodiak, it's just nice cool water." Fluttershy begged politely. Kodi shook his head rapidly and exclaimed "No way in a million of years that I'm gonna get in this tub!"

"Come on dude, it's not that bad." I assured with a soft and nervous grin. "The water is quite good. Besides, I've seen you drink water and never complain about that."

"Ren, there's a difference between drinking and washing yourself in water!" Kodi retorted in a deadpan look.

"Oh...right..." I chuckled nervously.

"And besides, the water is nice and cool." Fluttershy said, touching the tub with her hoof. Kodi stubbornly pouted and turned his head away, which made me sigh. Is there anything to convince this husky? "And if you do get in this tub, I promise to give you some extra treats."

Upon hearing that with his ears perking up in excitement, he jumped into the tub and said "Well what are we waiting for?! Let's do this!"

"Whoa, cool it Kodi!" I laughed, getting myself wet the moment he jumped into the pool. Jeez, he must be this excited if he wants those dog treats Fluttershy has.

"Alright, let's get you cleaned up." Fluttershy smiled before grabbing a sponge and washing him, along with me as I used the scrubbing brush on his back. "So how long did you took a bath?"

"Umm....I don't know. I lost count on how many days I've been exploring around the place before making Ponyville my official home when Ren adopted me." Kodi said, unable to remember that.

"Well you were just a pup, so it would makes sense why you don't remember much." Fluttershy pointed out.

"Although, I am quite curious to know a little bit more about ya, Kodi." I said with a smile. "You don't mind sharing a story or two about yourself?"

Kodi smiled at me before slumping his head down a bit in a depressing way as he lowered his ears and said "O-oh...sorry Ren. I'm just...not comfortable of that. Besides, it's quite a long story."

"I-I see...sorry about that." I apologized before petting him on the head, causing him to smile a bit. 

"Thanks Ren." Kodi smiled brightly before licking me on the cheek, causing me to chuckle a little.

"Well it's understandable why you're uncomfortable, Kodi." Fluttershy kissed him on the forehead, causing Kodi to blush a bit. "I mean, most animals don't remember where they were born or what day at all. But I know that maybe you'll see your parents one day."

"Thanks you guys..." I always wonder what Kodi's past was like. I know that he doesn't remember much about his family, but wouldn't it be great to let him see them just once? It must be sad being apart from your family, I know that by experience. I miss my family very much and always wonder what's going on with them. Everyone must be really searching out for us right now. I can just imagined it right now.

Soon after, we managed to get Kodi cleaned up as he got out of the tub and shook himself off, getting some water on us but we didn't mind as we let out laughter. Soon after drying himself off, we headed back into the living room where me and Fluttershy were preparing food for the little guys, even Kodi.

"Lunch time!" Fluttershy announced, ringing a bell before addressing all of her animals, which consist of birds, squirrels, mice, and chipmunks while Fluttershy poured some delicious treats for them on the ground as they immediately began devouring it.

"Whoa, these guys sure are hungry." I commented.

"True, but they're just so cute when they eat." Fluttershy giggled before feeling a nudge from Kodi, who gave out a whimper. "Oh, and I didn't forget you Kodiak."

She flew into the kitchen to grab his dog treats while we stayed behind. Fluttershy sure is a great animal expert, makes sense with her kind and caring but shy heart towards these little guys. Though, I feel kinda blindsided for not understanding her feelings back then when I started to get used to living here in Equestria. I guess I still have a lot to learn, don't I? Oh well, at least since the incident with Discord that we resolved and we decided to give it a chance.

Suddenly, I saw one of the animals one another to devour the food.

"Hey you guys, calm down. There's plenty for everyone." I assured, which the animals glanced at me, blinking innocently before going back to devour their treats. I let out a sigh and shook my head with a soft grin before seeing a mice grabbing the box of treats Fluttershy had before as it began stuffing itself with it, nearly getting itself fat.

"Hey! Calm down!" Kodi exclaimed, grabbing the box with his teeth. The little mice rubbed  its stomach in joy while Kodi walked over and gave me the box.

"Thanks boy." I said, scratching him underneath the chin. Soon, Fluttershy came back with the dog treats before pouring a ton of doggy treats for Kodiak with a doggy bowl.

"Here you go Kodiak." Fluttershy said with a soft smile.

"Thanks Fluttershy!" Kodi thanked before devouring the treats. Fluttershy and I let out chuckles before I turned to her and said "You know, you're quite busy with these guys. I'm still surprise somepony like you can handle all these critters."

"Well I am quite a great animal breeder." Fluttershy replied. "Oh, there's something to let you and it's a quick lesson about relationships."

"Sure, what is it?" I asked curiously.

"In a relationship, you should always care and show concern for others. Like let's say that I didn't have a good day today, and you would notice me like that. What would you do?" Ooh, I think I know where this was going.

"I would ask you what was wrong and would keep bugging you till I get an answer, and once you tell me, I would try to help cheer you up." I answered with a smile, which made Fluttershy smiled.

"That's good, Ren." Fluttershy chuckled. "I think you're starting to get used to it."

"Thanks." You know, learning this stuff instead of learning it from a TV show, movie, video games and gaming simulations is quite good. Well besides getting home-schooled from my parents, of course. 

Suddenly, we heard a tapping as we turned around to see a familiar little white rabbit tapping his foot impatiently with an upset look. 

"Oh right! I almost forgot about you!" I handed the box of treats to Fluttershy as she poured a bowl of snacks into Angel's bowl. "Here you go, Angel bunny."

Instead of eating it, he kicked the bowl as it landed on Fluttershy's head with the food dropping on the food. Me and Kodi looked at this in shock before I ran towards her and helped take the bowl off her head while she had animal treats on her hair before shaking it off. 

"Hey! You should be respectful on what she gave to you, not be a jerk!" I said sternly to the white rabbit, who let out a raspberry and continued thumping his foot on the floor.

"Don't worry Ren, allow me." Fluttershy assured with a soft grin before turning to Angel. "Okay, Mister Picky-pants, you win." She immediately flew over to her kitchen and five minutes later, she came back with a bowl of salad. "Carrots, lettuce, and apples, yum-yum-yum!"

Unfortunately, he kicked it away, causing us to frown at him. I swear that rabbit is a prick.

"Wow, he's really doesn't like any of the food you make?" Kodi questioned, wiping his muzzle filled with dog treat crumbs. "Your cooking is quite delicious."

"Yeah, why won't you eat it? I thought rabbits like that kind of stuff." I agreed before Angel grabbed one of the salad and tried to tell us something by gestures. He pointed the lettuce before making his face turn green and fall down, holding a flower over his chest. "Are you trying to say...that you won't eat that?"

Angel got back and nodded.

"What?" But..." Fluttershy looked at her pet rabbit with a pleading look and asked "Well then, what will you eat?"

Angel smiled happily before hopping over to a nearby bookshelf and grabbed one of the recipe books as he came back and showed us a page that had a delicious looking vegetable like sundae. 

"Whoa, that kinda looks delicious." Kodi licked his lips before saying "Only except...if it wasn't vegetables."

"But aren't vegetables good for ya?" I asked with a raised brow.

"I just hate vegetables. They taste disgusting." Kodi gagged at that while I shook my head in amusement. This dog may be big, but he still acts like the little pup he was before. 

"I'm not sure I can even make that." Fluttershy stated before seeing the look Angel was giving her. "Well...I don't want you to starve..." Angel nodded with a happy smile.

"Fluttershy, maybe you should. Unless he'll keep being a prick." I shrugged before getting hit by the book Angel thrown, who gave me the irritated look. "Hey!"

He gave me another raspberry while Fluttershy chuckled and said "Alright, I'll make your special recipe."

Angel became excited to hear that, hugging Fluttershy tightly while me and Kodi gave him deadpanned looks. For a rabbit, he sure knows how to convince her.



Soon after that little convoy, me, Fluttershy, and Kodiak headed towards Ponyville's marketplace where everyone was busy with their usual shopping spree as I carried a list filled with food Fluttershy needed to buy for her cute little bunny friend.

"Alright Ren, let's split up." Fluttershy suggested. "I'll go and get the Asparagus and Tomato while you get the beets, carrots, and broccoli, okay?"

"Got it Flutters!" I nodded with a grin before we split up to different markets and went to buy some ingredients. Luckily, I had my bits as well as Fluttershy while Kodiak and I headed over to a shop that was owned by a pink elderly pony.

"Oh hello dearies, what do you need?" She asked politely.

"Oh, I was wondering if you sol any beets, carrots, and lettuces here?" I asked politely.

"And we're kinda in a hurry." Kodi added, wagging his tail a bit. The old pony chuckled before petting him gently on the head before giving me such of the items I asked for. Alright, I got the beets, and the carrots, as well as the...umm...

"Excuse me, ma'am? I don't think you got me the lettuces." I said, not seeing it in my bag.

"Sorry dear, we ran out of lettuces early this morning." She apologized. I let out a sigh and replied "It's alright, I'll try and go look for some at another shop. Thanks."

I gave her two bits to pay for them while we headed out in search for some lettuce.

"Where do you think we can buy lettuce at, Ren?" Kodi asked curiously. I let out a shrug and replied "Don't know. Maybe Flutters knows."

"Okay, let's go over to that shop and asked her." Kodi pointed his paw over to where Fluttershy was, who was busy standing in line to buy an Asparagus until she was cut off by a pony wearing glasses. Well that was rude.

"Oh, umm...excuse me, um, I think you just stepped in front of me?" Fluttershy called, but the pony in front just ignored her as she paid for the Asparagus and began leaving. "Excuse me, I think you made a mistake? You see I was actually here first and-"

"Sorry, didn't notice you there." What the?! That's a lie! She totally noticed her and just plain got in front of Fluttershy like she was nothing! That was really rude, you know!

"I know..." Fluttershy sighed. We walked over to her as I asked "You alright Flutters? I saw the whole thing."

"Don't worry Ren, like she said, she didn't noticed me." Fluttershy assured while I felt unsure about that. I know that she did on purpose on you like that. I wished I could something about that. Oh wait, I have my Hacking Gun...but then again, I can't these guys, even if I want to help out Fluttershy.

Suddenly, we looked over to see an orange coated elderly pony walking up to the stand with a light chuckle. 

"Oh, pardon me, sir-"

"Yes, what?" The old stallion asked curiously, pulling out one of those ear trumpets that old people back in my world uses to hear what others are saying.

"Umm, excuse me, you might've cut in front of my girlfriend here." I stated with a calm smile. 

"A cut of celery? But this is the asparagus stand." He replied, not hearing what I said correctly.

"No, he said that I think you just cut in front of me." Fluttershy said through the ear trumpet, only to receive a laughter from him.

"Oho, no need, dearies, I'm already in front!" He chuckled before buying an asparagus from the stand and heading out. Well I can't blame since I think most ear trumpets aren't that much helpful for the elderly, no offence to them.

"I noticed." Fluttershy sighed while I put a comforting hand to her shoulder, which made her smile in relief.

"Don't worry. I'll buy the asparagus." I winked before heading over to the stand and tried to buy an asparagus until I was bumped into somepony.

"OW!" We both yelled as I rubbed my aching head before seeing who I bumped into. "Jamie?!"

"O-oh! H-hey there Ren." Jamie greeted, rubbing his head before getting back up with a nervous look on his face. "S-sorry for bumping into you. I didn't mean to..."

"No no, it's alright. Besides, it was just an accident." I assured with a nervous chuckle before smiling over him. 

"Oh Jamie!" Fluttershy called as she and Kodiak walked next to me before asking "What brings you to the marketplace?"

"Twilight headed back home to Canterlot with Spike for the weekend and won't be back for a while, so I'm keeping an eye out for the Golden Oaks Library." Jamie explained. "Besides, I went on jogging with Mason and Jack for my basic training, and after we were done, we went to our own separate paths, but while I was walking, I bumped into some ponies who gave me nasty comments along the way."

"Like what kind of nasty comments?" I asked.

"Like saying 'Hey watch it!' and 'Watch where you're going nerd' and all that." Oh wow, did some of these ponies wake up on the wrong side of the bed or something because I've never seen any other ponies to act up like that. Well...the Flim Flam Brothers are just an exception, but still...

"Hey, don't worry, you'll be fine now. Why not we buy the asparagus? I'm trying to buy it for Fluttershy." I replied with a soft grin.

"O-oh...thank you." Jamie smiled softly as we walked over to the stand until we were cut-off by ponies wearing some outfits that might've seen from the 90s.

"...And I was like 'Oh, wow'." One of the ponies said to her friend. 

"Umm...excuse me?" Fluttershy called, only to get a scoff from them.

"Uhh, do ya mind? We're trying to have a conversation here." The first pony scoffed. "And besides, you're like in my personal space."

We all looked at each other with concern looks as Jamie stepped in and politely asked "N-no ma'am, but we're here to buy some asparagus and we think that you cut us-"

"So what? Move it or lose it turd." The second pony scoffed, causing Jamie to wince before nervously smiling at her.

"No really ma'am, but we need it. So could you kindly move out of the way?" Jamie asked with a forceful smile.

"My friend is right." Fluttershy agreed, stepping up with a worried look on her face. "We really need to-"

"Seriously, do you need your asparagus's so badly? Get a life." The second pony scoffed, much to my irritation. Seriously, what is their problem? What did we do to them?

"But-" The ponies gave Jamie an irritated glare, causing him to back away in fear. Well that was plain rude. Well I mean he is getting stronger physically, but not emotionally. This could be bad. "N-never mind...."

"He's right. There's no rush." Fluttershy added, backing away as well.

Kodi and I looked at each other in worried before we glared at the two ponies.

"Hey! That wasn't nice! You two were cutting them off when they were trying to buy something!" I exclaimed.

"Yeah! You two aren't even buying anything at all! So what gives you the right to tell them that!" Kodi added.

"Look, we're having a conversation here, so like move it." In front of an asparagus stand? Really? Before me and Kodi could argue more with them, a familiar fat biker guy stepped in and glared at them fiercely.

"Hey, why not move out of the way before I pummeled your behinds into next week, ya frigging lunatics." Jack scoffed, cracking his knuckles.

"And who are you to tell us that, ya big larb?" The second pony asked irritably. He growled angrily before exclaiming "Get the hell out of here!"

The two ponies widened their eyes before backing away from the sheer loudness of his voice. He soon turned to us and said "There, I did ya a favor, kid."

"Oh, thanks dude." I smiled happily before walking over and paying for the asparagus.

"Oh...thank you so much, Jack." Fluttershy smiled softly as she and Jamie walked over to them.

"Y-yes, thank you for helping us." Jamie thanked.

"Whatever. Maybe next time defend yourselves, especially you nerd." Jack stated, glaring at the two.

"R-right...sorry. I was trying to, but-"

"Look, just try and learn to defend yourself! We've been training you for weeks and yet you still haven't learned a thing?" Jack asked irritably.

"Jack!" We turned to our left to see Mason, Rarity, and Pinkie walking over to us with the two girls having worried looks and Mason giving Jack a stern one. "You know that Jamie is trying his best, so don't be hard on him!"

"Tch!" Jack scoffed at Mason as he replied "Like I care! I'm just trying to toughen him up, that's all!"

"So what are you guys doing here?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Just came here for some shopping, nothing much Kodiak darling." Rarity assured before turning to Fluttershy and Jamie. "But we saw the whole thing. Fluttershy, Jamie, you two mustn't let them treat you that way."

"Oh, it's-it's really no big deal..." Fluttershy assured.

"Fluttershy, it is." I said with a concern and serious look. "You and Jamie are shy but caring people, but are getting taken advantage from the others. They're bullying you."

"It's alright Ren, I'm used to it." Jamie stated sadly. 

"Well it's a frigging problem for us." Jack scoffed while Pinke nodded in agreement as she furrowed her eyebrows and added "Yeah! It's bigger than big. It's double big. You are a pony with a problem!" 

"Right...thank you Pinkie Pie." Mason said with a deadpan look before turning to the two people in question. "But she has a point. You two are having some trouble backing yourselves up. It's going to be a problem if this keeps happening."

"What problem?" Jamie asked. "T-there's nothing going on! I swear!" 

"He's right. There's nothing wrong with us." Fluttershy nodded, causing us to look at each other with doubtful looks. Jack got over and pushed the two out of their way, causing them to fall off the ground, but not until me and Kodi and helped them up.

"Oh, thank you Ren." Fluttershy thanked before turning to Jack. "And you can go right ahead, Jack."

"Y-yes, you can have our spot. It's nothing special." Jamie sighed, glancing down sadly. 

"See?! Are you two idiots getting it now?! Stop being pussies and start being manly!" Jack exclaimed, causing the two to cover their ears from his loud voice.

"Jack, calm down and go easy on them." I pleaded while Jack scoffed at me and said "Oh please, 'go easy on them'. That's what a coward would do."

"While I don't approve of his attitude, he raises a good point." Rarity nodded in agreement. "You two need to stop being such a doormat."

"A...doormart?" Fluttershy questioned, not familiar with that term.

"In other words, we need to stop being losers and pushovers." Jamie clarified nervously.

"Oh, okay!" Fluttershy nodded, understanding what it means now. "I promise. Oh! Good!" We looked over to see that there was three more asparagus on the stand. But two ponies came over and bought the other two asparagus, much to Fluttershy and Jamie's disappointment.

"Oh well...at least there's two more to buy." Jamie sighed, but unfortunately, our luck has overturned as a nerdy pony who almost looked like Steve Urkel...no wait, never mind. Sorry, but anyway, he took the last asparagus and paid for it.

"Oh come on!" Kodi growled.

"Oh, that's okay, I don't mind." Fluttershy assured with a sad look. Rarity came over with a sly gin and said "Watch and learn."

Wonder how she's gonna pull it off? 

"Hold it right there, Mr. small and handsome." Rarity called, gaining the nerdy pony's attention.

"Uh, who me?" He asked.

"Oh, of course you. Nopony ever called you handsome before?" Rarity questioned in a flirting way.

"Uhh, that's be a big no." He shook his head.

"Oh, well, they should! How about flexing some of your muscles for me?" She picked up his left foreleg, causing him to blush and smiled weirdly as his green box starting spinning around like a windmill. He then began flexing his foreleg, barely showing any muscles. "Oh my heavens! Do you think a strong, handsome stallion such as yourself could give my friend the last asparagus?"

She used her horn to draw the guy's bit back to him while she took the asparagus from his bag.

"Nuhh...." He nodded, blushing madly before she walked off with a grin on her face.

"Well that was quite a good acting, Rarity." Mason commented with a light smile before frowning a bit. "But was it right to do all that?"

"Yeah, kinda a pathetic way to do that." Jack scoffed. "I rather beat the living crap out of him."

"Oh just stop it, you! Boys like you always uses their fist instead of words." Rarity rolled her eyes, upsetting the biker.

"What you say, loon?!" Jack exclaimed.

"P-please, stop fighting!" Jamie begged. 

"Yes, fighting is wrong, you two." Fluttershy agreed.

"Shaddup!" Jack yelled, causing Jamie and Fluttershy to wince in fear.

"Jack, stop it!" I exclaimed before turning back to Fluttershy and Jamie. "Don't worry you two, Rarity was just showing off an example on how to defend yourselves."

"I'm not so sure about this..." Fluttershy said, feeling unsure about doing all that.

"M-me too...it feels wrong." Jamie muttered, only to get a scoff from Jack.

"I done plenty of wrong things when I was a kid and you don't see me complaining." Mason rolled his eyes at the biker before commenting "That's because you're different from him."

Mason turned to the two with a soft smile and said "Don't worry you two. You two just need to pay attention and we can help out with your situation."

"Um...I guess not." Fluttershy shrugged.

"Y-yeah...I'll give it a try." Jamie nodded with an unsure look on his face.

"Alright then! What else is on your list?" Rarity questioned, handing me the asparagus as I put it into the basket I was holding onto. 

"Let's see..." I looked over at the list and said "Next we need is tomatoes."

"Oh wait, did you get everything from your side of the list Ren?" Fluttershy asked curiously, but I shook my head with a nervous smile and replied "No, I only got the beets and carrots. They were fresh out of lettuce."

"Oh, it's okay." Fluttershy sighed. Oh man, now I feel really bad for her. I mean, I'm okay with Fluttershy being shy and timid, it's what who she is. However, she's being pick on some of the ponies here like it's nothing. Well I'm gonna try and help her out of this situation. 

"Well we'll come with you guys to help you out." Mason smiled a bit, which made feel glad to hear that.

"Thanks you guys." I smiled.

"You guys are the best!" Kodi grinned before we headed out towards the tomato stand.

"Oh, there's still plenty of tomatoes." Fluttershy smiled before walking over and using her wing to put the tomatoes into her bag before paying the clerk with a single bit. "Here you go."

As she was about to take her leave, the clerk cleared her throat and said "That'll be two bits. Not one."

"Wait what?" I asked in confusion. 

"Oh, but last week, it was only one bit." Fluttershy pointed out.

"That was then, this is now." She stated sternly. 

"Hey wait! That's not fair!" I exclaimed.

"Well too bad, now move it." She scoffed. Unbelievable...

"It's okay Ren. I don't wanna argue about it." Fluttershy stated, placing another bit on the table. Wait, what the? I saw that smug look on that clerk's face. Well that's clearly unfair to me!

"Whoa whoa whoa!" Pinkie came in with a stern look as she exclaimed "What do you think you're doing?!"

"Minding my own business, maybe you should try it." The clerk stated with an irritable tone. Jeez, is anypony we're meeting woke up on the wrong side of the bed?

"Two bits for tomatoes is outrageous!" You think that's bad? I once went to the grocery store with my dad once and found out that the tomatoes cost like eight dollars. That was quite stupid, am I right? I prefer paying it four dollars for it. "One big is the right price!"

To prove her point, Pinkie took one bit away from the table, much to the clerk's annoyance as she grab the bit back from her.

"I say it's two bits!" The clerk exclaimed.

"One bit!"

"Two bits!"

"One bit!"

"Two bits!"

"One bit!"

"Two bits!

"One bit!

"Two bits!"

"One bit!"

"Two bits!

"Two bits!" Wait what?

"One bit!" 

"I insist it's two bits or nothing!" Pinkie grinned.

"One bit and that's my final offer!" The clerk exclaimed, giving Pinkie the one bit while she took the other.

"Have it your way, one bit it is." Pinkie smiled before grabbing the coin away from away as we went our distant ways. I looked back and saw the clerk widening her eyes in shock upon realizing what she did. 

"Ha ha ha! Serves her right, right guys?" Kodi laughed.

"You can say that again." I nodded with a grin before turning to Pinkie and said "But holy cow, Pinkie. You just pulled off a Bugs Bunny there."

"I don't know whose this 'Bugs Bunny' guy is, but he sounds hilarious!" Oh trust me, he and Daffy Duck are hilarious in their own ways.

"Damn, pretty clever move." Jack exclaimed with a toothy grin.

"I see, you tricked her with word play. I understand." Jamie nodded, writing it down in his notebook.

"Exactly. You guys need to assert yourself more." Mason stated.

"Yeah! Asserting yourself can be fun!" Pinkie smiled.

"I guess you're right!" Fluttershy smiled.

"So Fluttershy, Jamie, you both feel like giving it a try?" Rarity asked with a smile.

"I-I'm not so sure..." Jamie rubbed his arm bashfully with a doubtful look before bumping into a pony, who was minding his own business. "Oh! So sorry ma'am!"

"Watch where you're going, idiot." She scoffed while Jack growled angrily and tried to punch her, but Mason and I held him back.

"No Jack! It's not worth it!" I exclaimed.

"Ren's right! Just calm down and take a deep breath!" Mason said sternly. Jack proceed to do so as he breathed in and breathed out of his nostrils.

"Alright, alright, I'm cool now..." Jack glanced away while Jamie looked down with a sad look. 

"Don't worry Jamie, I'm sure you'll get better next time." Kodi assured.

"Maybe..." Jamie turned his head away, making us look at each other in concern. Oh boy, this can't get worse.

"Oh!" Huh? I looked over at Fluttershy, who was looking at a nearby stand with a surprised look. "I need that cherry!" 

Cherry? I narrowed my eyes towards the stand and saw the little cherry that was on the stand by a big stallion with a beard. Oh right, since we're making a vegetable-like sundae for Angel, so it would make sense to buy a cherry. Like they always say, cherry on top.

Suddenly, Fluttershy flew over to that stand and said "Boy, am I glad you have one cherry left. You see, I'm making this special meal for my bunny Angel. He's a very picky eater, and the recipe calls for a cherry on top."

She placed a single bit on the table and said "Here you go."

"...So you say you need this cherry 'very badly'?" The stallion asked curiously, causing some of us to raise a brow at him. What's he planning?

"Oh yes, I'm desperate for it!" Fluttershy nodded.

"Then it'll be ten bits!" Wait what?! Okay, that's just a sick move you're pulling off! I walked over to him with a stern and serious look and said "Now wait just a minute! You can't just give out the price like that! That's so unfair!"

"Sorry kid, not my problem." He scoffed. What the heck?! Does this guy even knows what he's doing at all?!

"Don't worry Ren, I'll handle it." Fluttershy assured with a soft grin, but I felt hesitate about letting her doing that. However, I looked back and saw everyone giving her encouraging looks and gestured me to let her handle this. I let out a sigh and backed away a bit as Fluttershy cleared her throat and gave him a soft smile.

"Hey there Mr. Handsome, I know you wanna do the right things because you're handsome and strong, and big, handsome, strong guys are always nice to everypony, right?"

Well...I know that she isn't wrong there. I've seen gaming characters who are big, handsome, and strong are always nice and friendly.

"Ten bits for the cherry." Jeez, that guy just doesn't give two craps about this.

"Ten bits for one cherry's outrageous! I insist on paying you...eleven bits!" Fluttershy exclaimed while I widened my eyes in shock on what she said.

"Eleven bits?" I asked in confusion. "Umm, I think you got that wrong Fluttershy."

"Oh umm....I mean, nine bits!" Fluttershy corrected herself, but not realizing that's only gonna make things worse.

"Er, now wait a minute." The stallion said, confused by the prices Fluttershy's giving him.

"Okay, twelve bits, but that's my final offer!" 

"Fluttershy, no offence but you're just making the prices more worse!" I exclaimed with a worried look.

"Yeah, you're just confusing me." See, even this guy agrees with me!

"Whatever, it's twelve bits, take it or leave it." Fluttershy pleaded.

"Okay, I'll take it!" Wait what? Fluttershy took out her bag filled with bits until I came by and stopped her.

"No wait Flutters! Don't pay this greedy guy your money!" I exclaimed as Rarity and the others came by to help out as well, pulling her away from the stand.

"Renny's right! One cherry is not worth twelve bits!" Pinkie agreed.

"But...I was only doing what you did." Fluttershy stated.

"Yeah, and you only made things worse than before." Jack scoffed, only to get a hard nudge on the gut from Mason. 

"Look Fluttershy, it was a valiant effort, but you should refuse to give him your business and just walk away." Mason said.

"Yeah, that guy is just making too many prices because he's too greedy." Kodi agreed before looking back and growling at the stallion.

"But...I can't let Angel starve!" Fluttershy exclaimed in worried. "He won't eati it unless I make it just right!"

"Fluttershy, it's just Angel being...well Angel. He loves you for who you are, so I'm sure he might like it." I assured with a soft grin before muttering "Despite being the prickly bunny he is."

"I don't care Ren, I need that cherry no matter what it costs!" Fluttershy zoomed towards the stand with a panicking look on her face. Somehow, the stallion who owned the cherry stand must've heard our conversation as he gave out another outrageous price.

"In that case, twenty bits!" Fluttershy stopped with widened eyes and a hurtful look on her face.

"Twenty?! Oh, but I don't have that much!" Fluttershy said.

"Then why're you wasting my time?" Why that no good merchant! Suddenly, another pony came buy and placed two bits on the stand and said "I'll give you two bits for that cherry!"

"Sold!" He grinned, handing her the cherry before she walked off. "Eh, tough break, kid. Next time, don't be such a doormat."

Fluttershy sighed sadly and looked down with a depressed look while I glared angrily at the guy. Why that sicko! That isn't fair!

"Ren, we need to go over to Fluttershy to comfort her." Kodi stated, getting me out of my anger state.

"R-right...okay." I nodded before I placed a comforting hand on Fluttershy's shoulder and said "Hey, it's okay. I'm sure we have some cherries back at the home-ship, along with some lettuce."

"But still Ren, I should've gotten it from here and failed." Fluttershy sighed. 

"Well...it was your first time. Maybe next time you'll get it right. I know that for sure." I assured with a soft grin, making Fluttershy smiled a bit until Jack got in our way and headed towards the stand with an angry look on his face.

"Hey!" Jack yelled, gaining the cherry stand owner's attention. 

"What now?" He asked irritably until he was met with a punch in the muzzle by Jack. We all widened our eyes at this as Jack walked around the stand and grabbed the pony by the throat.

"You listen here because I ain't gonna be playing some damn games with ya! Ya better give my friend a cherry or so help me god that I'll beat the living crap out of ya, got it?!" Jack yelled, frightening the man before Jack dropped him on the floor as he began looking through his stand and took out a cherry, which Jack grabbed before he punched the guy in the face again. "That's a lot better!"

"Jack! That was uncalled for!" Mason said sternly. 

"Yeah, y-you didn't have to punch the guy." Jamie agreed with a shocked look.

"I only care about results." Jack scoffed before handing the cherry to Fluttershy. "Here, one cherry."

"Oh...umm, thank you Jack." Fluttershy smiled while I looked at Jack with a smile as well.

"Yeah, you really helped us out there dude. I can't thank you enough." I chuckled before adding "Well, the punching was unnecessary, but I'm sure the guy will be alright."

"And besides, I think he kinda deserved it." Kodi shrugged.

"Whatever." Jack looked away from us while Jamie smiled at him before frowning sadly. "Well anyway, I'm gonna grab a bite. See ya."

Jack let out a burp before taking his leave while Rarity look disgusted at his manners.

"Unbelievable, I still can't understand that brute's manners." Rarity scoffed.

"Well that's just Jack's way on thanking someone." Mason shrugged. 

"Yeah...but what if he's right? We can't defend ourselves and can't take the insults at all." Jamie sighed sadly. "Face it, we're useless..."

"I wouldn't say you and Fluttershy are useless, you guys are great friends and have great talents." I stated with a smile. "Just ignore them and hopefully you guys will be brave."

"T-thanks...I guess..." Jamie sighed, clutching on his notebook real tight.

"Well either way, I better head over and pick up Carrie from school. I'll see you later." Mason said before taking his leave.

"And I'm late on throwing another party for somepony! See ya!" Pinkie immediately dashed off, leaving a puffy cloud of herself behind before it faded away.

"And I better head back to the shop with Kaede. She's watching it over for me since I told her that I needed a nice stroll for a bit. Bye bye." Rarity then took her leave, leaving me, Fluttershy, Jamie, and Kodiak behind. Man, today's such a rough day for them. I understand that these guys want to stand up for themselves, but no matter, they're just gonna make themselves get bullied more. If only there was something we can do to help them out of their little crisis.

"Well well well, look at what we got here?" Huh? We turned around to see Rantaro walking over with a grin on his face. "What's up with the sad looks?"

"Hey Rantaro, my friends are acting sad because they can't defend themselves from the ponies around here in the marketplace." I explained.

"It's true, I don't know how to even comment back at them." Fluttershy sighed sadly.

"Same here..." Jamie glanced down in disappointment.

"Well...makes sense really since you two are quite cowards." Rantaro snickered. "But say, I got a good deal that might help you guys very well."

"What kind of deal?" I questioned curiously. Rantaro snapped his fingers as his raccoon friend, Gizmo, popped out of his hat and showed us a poster that showed a blur fur coated Minotaur flexing his muscles.

"Saw this flyer hang around town and it just so happens that it tells me about a guy who goes by the name of Iron Will holds some seminars to liven up people's attitudes to make them out of their weak selves." Rantaro explained.

"Oh? Really?" Fluttershy asked in surprise. "Y-you really think he could help us?"

"No doubt. Although, I never met the guy directly..." Rantaro picked his ear a bit before giving us a cocky grin and said "But it's your choice. You can have the poster just for 1,000 bits."

"But we don't have that much bits!" Jamie exclaimed.

"Then you're all just wasting my time." Rantaro scoffed, turning away from us. "Man, I was sure enough many of these ponies would pay me to give them good info, but it looks like I don't have that many customers than the ones back home. Wonder why?"

Does it involve with your crazy over-the-top prices?

"Well anyway, thanks for the offer R-Rantaro." Jamie smiled a bit. "Sorry if we couldn't pay you your price."

"Nah, it's okay. I'm used to some people not being able to pay me crap." Rantaro smirked before taking his leave with his raccoon friend along. 

Iron Will...that sounds like a pretty tough up name if I do say so myself. But is it even possible for a guy like him to turn ponies from being pushovers to strong and independent ponies? Besides, I'm definitely surprise that they're Minotaurs in this world. Then again, this is the land of Equestria where everything you never imagined exist.

"Do you think that offer was a good idea?" Kodi wondered aloud.

"Well maybe." I shrugged before turning to my friends and asked "What do you guys think?"

Fluttershy thought for a while before smiling softly and said "Well...maybe it could help. As Celestia is my witness, I'm never gonna be a pushover again!"

"Y-yeah." Jamie muttered, nodding in agreement. "Maybe...it's for the best. Sure I've been training with Jack and Mason for a while, but I...I haven't gotten stronger from my emotions. Besides, nobody liked me for who I am..."

"Jamie..." I said, feeling bad for him. 

"Maybe it's for the best. How about we head over to Iron Will and meet up with him? We'll see what kind of guy he is." Jamie suggested. "If what Rantaro said is  true, we should go."

"Well..." Fluttershy thought for a while before turning to me and said "Ren, do you think you come with me? I'm too scared being alone."

"Well Jamie is gonna be going with you." I pointed out.

"But...I'm just scared without ya." Aww...well I can't refuse an offer like that. 

"Well alright, I'll join in with ya guys." I grinned, which made her smile while Jamie twiddled his fingers a bit and said "W-well...I guess we need someone to help us out if things go awry."

"Right!" Fluttershy nodded before realizing something. "Oh dear! I almost forgot about Angel's special recipe! Oh, but we don't have any lettuce!"

"Don't worry Flutters, I can go and get some back at home. That way, you could make it for him." I suggested, which made her nodded in agreement.

"Thank you Ren." Fluttershy flew up and kissed me on the cheek, causing me to blush a bit. "Now come on, let's go and get the lettuce and after I'm done making Angel's special recipe, we can go to that seminar today." 

"Okay, but how do we even find it by the way?" I asked curiously.

"Well I took a closer look at the flyer before Rantaro put it away." Jamie spoke up. "I-it said something about hedge maze center."

"Don't worry, I know where that is, so it shouldn't be a problem." Fluttershy chuckled. "Now come on, let's go."

"Right behind ya Flutters!" I exclaimed before we began walking back to the home-ship to grab that lettuce in order to fully make that sundae vegetable treat for that little devil rabbit.

"You know Ren...the others are always seem to trust you a lot, do they? But...how?" Jamie questioned.

"Because he's awesome!" Kodi grinned.

"Well I'm not that awesome, boy." I petted him on the head before turning back to Jamie and replied "Well I've been here way longer before you and the others, and I always had faith and kept encouraging them no matter what to not give up on missions to help make our friendship grow closer, that's what."

"I-I see..." Jamie glanced away, feeling a bit sadden to hear that. Hmm, I wonder if I could help him with that. Though, I wonder...if maybe going to this seminar will really help them out? I'm always there to defend Fluttershy and my friends no matter what.



Later
Sooner or later after we got the lettuce, me, Kodi, and Jamie were waiting outside of Fluttershy's cottage to see if she was done or not so that we could go to the seminar. It's already 3:00 by now. 

"Are we even sure she's coming out Ren?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Don't worry, Fluttershy's the type to never break promises." I assured with a soft grin.

"Well it would make sense due to her overall kindness and that nice, timid, and shy personality of hers." Jamie muttered loudly, which made me smile about that. See, even he gets it.

Soon, we heard the door opening, revealing Fluttershy exiting out with a sad look on her face. 

"Hey Flutters, what's wrong?" I asked, noticing her expression.

"It's nothing Ren, just that Angel didn't like the treat because it didn't taste good enough." Fluttershy replied. "He even kicked the bowl straight towards my face...again."

"Again?" Jamie asked incredulous.

"It happened earlier." I answered. "But don't worry Flutters, it's just that Angel is just being stubborn and prickly as always."

"True, but still..." I placed a comforting hang on her shoulder before giving her a kiss on the cheek and said "Don't worry, when we go to the seminar, I'm sure it'll help you and Jamie to defend yourselves."

"Yeah! You two will do great together!" Kodi agreed, licking Fluttershy on the face, which made her laugh.

"Okay, thanks for the encouragement." Fluttershy smiled.

"Y-yeah..." Jamie nodded, giving us a surprised look on his face. "Although, I've...quite surprised that you would kiss a pony." He widened his eyes as he soon realized on what he said. "Ah! Please forgive me Fluttershy! I didn't mean to say that!"

"It's okay Jamie. I know you didn't mean it." Fluttershy smiled, which made Jamie look away with embarrassment.

"R-right..." Jamie nodded. "So, uhh...should we go now?"

"Yeah, I guess so." I nodded.

"So where is the Hedge Maze Centre anyway?" Kodi questioned.

"Oh, I've read about it once, so I'll lead the way." Fluttershy offered before flapping her wings and flying off while I took out my capsule, hit the button, and threw it in the air, activating my hoverboard. I hopped onto it before turning to Kodiak and Jamie as I said "Well hop on you two!"

"You got it Ren!" Kodi nodded before jumped onto the back of the board, along with Jamie, who apparently hesitated on doing this.

"O-okay...just don't go too fast, please?" Jamie begged.

"Alright Jamie. We'll go nice and easy for ya." I winked before we flew off and headed straight towards the Hedge Maze Center while we followed after Fluttershy. Hopefully that we aren't late for this thing because this is very important for these two to get stronger.



Later
Well...this is quite the party we're in. We soon finally arrived to the Hedge Maze Center as we saw how many ponies were in this. Holy cow, this Iron Will guy must be really good at motivating people if he's attracted so many fans for a seminar.

"Oh! Ah! Uh...excuse me!" Fluttershy stated softly as we tried to find a spot at the front of the crowd. I remained close to her side, along with Kodiak before I heard a soft squeak from Fluttershy the moment we tugged ourselves into a spot. She received angry looks from some ponies of the crowd until I looked back at them with an apologetic expression and muttered "So sorry about that."

"Y-yes, please forgive us." Jamie apologized with a nod before we looked back at the stage, awaiting for this Iron Will guy to appear.

"So what do you guys think of this Iron Will?" Kodi questioned curiously. I thought for a while before shrugging and replied "Not sure. I guess we're about to find out."

"Well I hope that he can teach us to stop letting us be pushovers." Jamie muttered loudly, making me and Kodi to look at each other in worried. Jamie must really doesn't like being a pushover, does he? 

Suddenly, loud music began playing and soon, the spotlight shined on the stage as smoke filled the area. Oh wow, this is just like when you're going to a concert, huh? Suddenly, a large Minotaur appeared on the stage, swinging and flinging his arms around as fireworks exploded on the stage.

"Whoa..." Kodi muttered in awe. The crowd was even was impressed by this as they began stomping their hooves, creating a lot of thumping sounds. The large Minotaur flexed his arms, displaying his muscles as he kissed each one tenderly.

"Uhh...?" Me and Jamie looked at each other in confusion and uncomfortable at what we were witnessing. I've seen a ton of characters on TV that liked to do that, but this...this is just weird when seeing someone kissing their muscles.

"Welcome, friends!" He announced as he walked on the stage. "My name is Iron Will, and today is the first day of your new life! I wanna hear you stomp if you're tired of being a pushover!" The crowd stomped their hooves, excluding me, Jamie, Kodi, and Fluttershy. "Stomp if you wanna pay nothing for this seminar!" Wait what? Actually, now that I think about...do we have to pay for this seminar? I never thought about that. 

And it would seem that the crowd were generally confused by that before letting out some loud laughter. Iron Will looked at the crowd seriously and snorted loudly, causing them to immediately become silent. 

"That's no joke, friends. Iron Will is so confident that you will be one hundred percent satisfied with Iron Will's assertiveness techniques, that if you are not one hundred percent satisfied, You. Pay. Nothing." Iron Will stated, causing me and Kodiak to look at each other in confusion about that. Why do I have this feeling like something is off about this seminar, including him? "But I pity the fool who doubts Iron Will's methods." 

He faced directly towards a pony beside us and asked "You don't doubt me, do you?"

"U-uh, no sir..." He shook his head, having a scared and nervous look on his face, along with the crowd. Fluttershy held my arm tightly while Kodi leaned against my left arm while Jamie ducked in fear. I get it why they're scared. It's because of this Minotaur. He's quite tough and strong, but also scary to look at.

"That, my friends, is your first lesson." Iron Will announced as he stood on top of two anthro goats, but they had the expression that they weren't bothered by this. "Don't be shy, look at them in the eye!" 

"Don't be shy, look at them in the eye...." I heard Jamie muttered, who was getting out of his ducking position. It seems like he's starting to get interested in this seminar, well that's a start.

“Now, to demonstrate that Iron Will’s techniques will work for anypony, I’m gonna need two volunteers.” Iron Will looked around the crowd as everypony raised their hooves up, except me, Kodi, Fluttershy, and Jamie, which the two duck their heads and hid behind me in fear. I gave them a reassuring smile and said “Don’t worry you two, I’m sure that you two are gonna be fine. Besides, it’s not like he’s not gonna choose you two because you two are too timid to do that.”

“You two!” Huh? I looked over to see Iron Will looking directly at me.

“Uh…us?” Kodi asked, putting his paw on his chest.

“Not you mutt, I meant those two behind the weird monkey freak!” Excuse me? Well actually, I’m used to ponies who aren’t friendly to call me names like that. “Get up on stage!”

“U-us?” Jamie asked timidly.

“Yes, you and the yellow pony! Iron Will wants you onstage!” He demanded, frightening them.

“Uh…well…” Fluttershy glanced away nervously, unable…No, too fearful to go up on stage, along with Jamie since these two have stage fright.

“Wait!” I called. “I’ll go! I mean, it’s just that-”

“What? No way!” Iron Will refused while he crossed his arms. “You’re no use! Besides, when Iron Will decides on something, he wants it! So you two get up here NOW!”

“B-but…” I tried to stop him until Fluttershy and Jamie stepped up.

“Ren, just let us go.” Fluttershy said softly.

“S-she’s right…It’s for the best…” Jamie nodded, feeling a bit scared on doing this. 

“Well…we got no choice, huh?” Kodi asked, realizing that there’s no way to get them from going. I let out a sigh and realized that they were right. I’m just…too worried for them. I let out a smile and said “Alright you guys, you can go. Besides, I know that you two will do great. After all, this is what you wanted, right?”

“Right.” Jamie and Fluttershy nodded in agreement before they both walked up to the stage, only to have a white goat blocked their way.

“Umm…e-excuse me sir, c-could you please move?” Jamie asked politely, only to get a snort from him.

“Whoaa! He’s blocking your path! What are you gonna do it?” Iron Will asked.

“Um, politely walk around him?” Jamie guessed.

“No.” He shook his head before crossing his arms. 

“Umm…Gingerly tip-toe around him?” Fluttershy suggested.

“No!” What? Those suggestions seem like good ideas to me.

“Go back home and try again tomorrow?” Fluttershy meekly smiled.

“Or give him what he wants?” Jamie shrugged, not directly looking at Iron Will.

“NO!” He yelled, causing the two to flinch while I was held back by Kodiak.

“Ren, don’t! It’s all part of the seminar, right?” Kodi reminded me, causing me to sigh and soon calm down. What was up with me just now? I’m normally calmed and friendly, I guess I was really worried for them, huh?

“When somepony tries to block, show them that you rock!” He lightly pushed them towards the goat, causing the goat to fall down on the floor.

“Oh! I’m so sorry! I-I didn’t mean to do that!” Jamie apologized.

“Don’t be sorry! Be assertive!” Iron Will said sternly. “’Never apologize, when you can criticize.’” He cleared his throat and then got into the goat’s face with a threatening look and said “Why don’t you watch where you’re going!”

He looked back at Fluttershy and Jamie and said “Now you try!”

“Uh…” Fluttershy and Jamie looked at each other in fear and worried before they turned back to the fallen goat man as Fluttershy said “Next time, get out of the way before…I bump into you, ‘cause…I totally won’t be sorry when I do!”

“Y-yeah! Or else y-you’ll…facing my problems?” Jamie suggested meekly. Iron Will let out a smirk before grabbing each of their hands/hooves and lifted them into the air and shouted “You see my friends! If my techniques can work for these shy little creatures, then they can work for anypony!” 

I…guess that’s untrue. Maybe it could work, even on me.  Soon, fireworks popped out of the stage and exploded as the crowd cheered. Fluttershy and Jamie looked at each other in awe before turning to me and smiled happily at me while me and Kodiak smiled back at them. You know what? What was I so worried about? This could actually work. Well I mean, they’re just going to be assertive, not that whole exploding in anger like a crazy lunatic. 



Later

“Ren, did you see us? We were so assertive!”

“Yeah, I sure did Flutters. You and Jamie were great out there.” I smiled happily at them as we were back in Fluttershy’s cottage after we spend our time at the seminar. It wasn’t that long, so we came back and began discussing our opinions about the seminar we went through.

“Yeah, it looks like going to that seminar was a great idea, huh?” Kodi joked, which made Jamie smiled a bit.

“Y-yeah…maybe it was. I don’t have to be a pushover anymore.” Jamie stated confidently.

“Yeah, me too!” Fluttershy agreed. “Today is going to be a new day Ren! Just you wait!”

“Ha ha ha!” I laughed before smiling over them and said “Well alright you guys, let’s meet over with the others and see if you put those lessons to use then in case we bumped into rude ponies, huh?”

“A-Alright.” Jamie nodded, returning to his timid self.

“Okay.” Fluttershy smiled before kissing me on the cheek, causing me to chuckle. “Just let me feed the animals first and we can get started.”

“Okay!” I nodded as she flew out of the living room and headed to the kitchen to feed her animal friends.

“You know, I am quite excited to see how are things are gonna turn out tomorrow.” Kodi commented before turning to Jamie. “You sure you can do this, Jamie?”

“I-I’ll try…No, I will.” Jamie nodded, making a determined yet nervous look on his face. “I-I’ve been training with you guys, Mason, and Jack for a while and yet I only grew a little bit strong. Maybe going to Iron Will’s seminar was a good idea. I just want to defend and assert myself to those who might bully me.”

“Well don’t worry. We’re all gonna believe in ya, Jamie.” I chuckled, patting him on the back. “I mean, I understand that you might be afraid and always feel lonely, but we’re all gonna be by your side, Jamie. We’ll always stick together as a family.”

Kodi hopped onto my lap and licked me on my cheek, causing me to laugh while Jamie looked at us with a soft smile. 

“T-thanks…” Jamie nodded with a meek smile, which made smile as well. Soon, Fluttershy flew back into the room with a determined look and said “Okay, I feel good. I feel ready to ‘attack the day’, as Iron Will says.” 

She let out a giggle before turning back to us.“Ready or not, here comes assertive Fluttershy now!”

“And assertive Jamie!” Kodi added, causing Jamie to feel embarrassed before he clutch onto the book in front of his mouth to hide his blushing. “Come on Jamie, you should at least deserved that nickname.”

“W-well….I guess it’s alright…” Jamie nodded, blushing a bit.

“Now come on you guys, let’s go meet up with the others and tell them about how much assertive you guys became.” I chuckled with a grin while the other two felt a bit proud about that as we began exiting out of the cottage and went up to meet up with the others, only to encounter another elderly pony watering some plants with a hose. 

“Umm…excuse me, Mr. Greenhooves?” Fluttershy called. “But I-I think you might be over-watering my petunias…” He gave out a light chuckle while Fluttershy sighed “…Again…”

“Let the professional handle it.” He replied, which caused us to raise a brow at him.

“But if he was one, why is he over-watering those plants?” Kodi whispered to me, which I shrug.

“Good question.” Jamie sighed as Fluttershy stepped up as she held a determined and angry expression on her face, which caught me off-guard a bit. Whoa, I’ve never seen her act like that for a long while, which was from when we first met Mason and Carrie.

She immediately put her hoof onto the hose, causing to overflow inside of it and as soon as it began not to spray water out of the hose, the old pony looked through it until Fluttershy let go of it and released the water, causing it to burst onto him. He coughed and sputtered "Well...perhaps that is enough water..."

"Thank you." Fluttershy smiled before we took our leave and went to cross a bridge towards town. I retained a shocked expression, along with Jamie and Kodi upon what she did as she became excited and exclaimed "I can't believe I did it!"

"Yeah, but was that really n-necessary to do that?" Jamie questioned. "W-wouldn't it b-been better to just take the hose away from him?"

"It doesn't matter you guys! I did it! I didn't stutter or held back like I usually do!" Fluttershy squealed in excitement.

"Well still, he was an old guy so it should be fair to treat him nicely instead of doing all that." I rubbed my head bashfully before we finally arrived to the bridge until we saw two ponies blocking our way with two large wooden containers that had garbage inside of them.

"Showpony business is tough." The first garbage pony commented.

"Go ahead, try one of your jokes out on me. I laugh at everything." The second garbage pony smiled. Jokes? These two are trying to be stand-up comedians or something?

"Okay, okay, okay. A donkey and a mule are stuck on a desert island..."

"Umm...excuse me?" Fluttershy called. "Would you mind moving your carts so I can pass?"

"Yeah, yeah, in a minute." The first garbage pony said, waving it off before continuing on with her joke.

"B-but ma'am...we really need to get going." Jamie stated, twiddling with the pencil that was kept as a bookmark for his notebook. "So...could you kindly please move out of the way?"

"Yeah, in a minute." She said with a little force before turning back to her friend about the joke. I noticed a frown that Jamie had in his face before he said "When someone tries to block, show them that you rock!" 

Jamie kicked both of the carts, causing them immediately to spill all over the place, much to the two garbage ponies shock.

"Ugh! Easy does it, dude. We're moving, okay?" The first garbage pony sighed irritably before moving out of the way for them.

"Good!" Jamie smirked while me and Kodi gaped at that. Oh my god, I've never seen him act like that before. First Fluttershy, now Jamie? 

"I feel like we should stop this, Ren." Kodi said, feeling worried for our friends.

"Me too, but I can't stop them." I stated. "We promised to support them to the end no matter what. I...I don't want to let them down."

"Me too..." Kodi sighed before we followed after the two as we headed back towards Ponyville to see if the others approve of them being 'assertive'. Well I'm starting to have mixed opinions about this.

As we walked around the center part of Ponyville, a green coated pony with brown mane and tail bumped into Jamie, which made him form an angry look on his face.

"H-hey wait a minute! Why did you push me like that?!" Jamie demanded.

"Uhh...you were in the way first, pal." The pony responded with a nonchalant expression. 

"First? 'First is for winners! Second is for wieners!'" Jamie exclaimed, getting into the pony's face with an angry look on his face.

"U-uh...Okay pal! I'm sorry! I'm going!" With that, the green pony immediately ran away in fear while Jamie smiled proudly at that.

"I don't believe it, it actually worked. I-I never said that before to anyone or anypony before." Jamie chuckled while me and Kodi felt worried for this, but Fluttershy was clapping her hooves at Jamie and muttered "Yay!" 

I'm starting to worried that those two are gonna do something that they might regret because I don't want them to...never mind...



Later
Sooner or later, me and the gang arrived at Sugarcube Corner, where we stand in the middle of a long line, but eventually, the line started moving quickly. I was at the back of Fluttershy and Jamie was behind me, with Kodiak next to me as we waited to be called up next.

"Who's next, please, and what can I get for you today?" Pinkie called as we waited for our turn and once we get our desserts, we were gonna tell the gang about what Fluttershy and Jamie eventually accomplished. I heard a tap behind me as I looked back and saw that somepony slipped past me, Jamie, and Fluttershy, pushing the yellow pegasus back from that said pony. 

Jeez, what's up with them? I know ponies and humans are quite similar with each other, but...I just can't help but feel like something is wrong here. I just can't figure out. After being around Ponyville for a year, you would think these ponies were really friendly, kind, and trustworthy. But right now, they're acting pretty strange. Well I think that they're acting pretty strange, but I'm sure you guys are probably thinking so too, right?

"What do you think you're doing?! Didn't you see us?!" Fluttershy exclaimed, forming an angry look on her face.

"Uh, I guess maybe." The pony shrugged, which made Jamie and Fluttershy feel anger rising up. 

"Uh oh..." I muttered in fear. This isn't gonna go well, isn't it?

"Maybe? Maybe?!" Fluttershy exclaimed. 

"'Maybe is for babies!'" Jamie finished Fluttershy's sentence as the latter placed her hoof on the pony and spun her around, making her face their angry looks. 

"Now go to the back of the line where you belong!" They both exclaimed.

The pony smiled nervously and began backing away, along with the others who were in front of us as they felt terrified upon seeing them like this. Fluttershy and Jamie flashed cocky smirks on their faces like they were enjoying this.

"Fluttershy, Jamie..." I muttered, now realizing that they're starting to become...jerks.

"Heyyy, look at you!" Pinkie exclaimed as we entered the shop and encountered the others. Rarity, Mason, Kaede, and Carrie were having tea while Jack was eating on a nearby table and ate some cake. 

"Oh, your attitude is so feisty, it's fabulous." Rarity added, which the others nodded in agreement.

"I wouldn't say 'feisty'..." I muttered, rubbing my arm bashfully.

"Thanks." Fluttershy grinned cockily.

"Yeah. We learned it from Iron Will's seminar." Jamie chuckled, flashing a small cocky grin. T-there is seriously something wrong with them!

"Iron Will? Ha! That's something I would've come up with!" Jack laughed, slamming his fist on the table.

"So this Iron Will person helped you both learned to be assertive?" Kaede questioned. "Huh, I gotta say that's quite impressive. I'm proud that you two are starting to finally getting assertive, huh?"

"I agree. You two are working hard." Mason smiled. "I'm proud of you two."

"T-thank you." Jamie smiled. "Iron Will may have been scary, like Jack when he gets angry...."

"Hey!" Jack yelled, highly offensive of that.

"But he's a great guy that helped us out." Fluttershy smiled.

"Yeah, he helped out too much..." I muttered, which Kodi overheard and nodded in agreement.

"Looks like that monster's workshop really paid off!" Pinkie grinned.

"Yeah! You two must've felt quite nervous going over there, right?" Carrie asked.

"A little, yes." Jamie nodded in agreement.

"But Iron Will's not a monster. He's a Minotaur, and a true inspiration. His techniques really work." Fluttershy chuckled.

"Well, they've certainly made a difference in the way you carry yourself. You truly are a whole new Fluttershy and Jamie." Rarity replied before asking "Although, how did you two ever learn about him in the first place?"

"Rantaro came by after you guys left and told us about Iron Will." I answered, which made the others surprised by this. "Don't worry. He was offering that seminar as a friend, not an enemy."

"Well I still don't trust that bastard." Jack scoffed.

"Well either way, I'm...surprised that he would help out." Kaede chuckled. "I guess you guys own his debt, huh?"

"Yes, yes we do." Jamie nodded with a smile, looking at his book with a grin. "And new Jamie feels pretty stoked about new Jamie."

"New Fluttershy agrees." Fluttershy nodded in agreement, which made feel uneasy about this. Did...those two said that in the third person?

"Why did you two repeat yourselves in the third person?" Kaede questioned, which the two shrugged. 

"Well, old Pinkie Pie feels really proud of new Fluttershy. Proud as pink punch!" Pinkie brought out a bowl of pink punch onto the counter with a snort. "Want some?"

She fell down on the floor and started laughing with her face, along with the others. However, Jamie and Fluttershy both had angry looks, like they weren't amused by it.

"W-whoa whoa whoa! Flutters! James! They're not-" Unfortunately, I was too late as Jamie threw the bowl of pink punch towards Pinkie, and getting her wet. The others were shocked about this, even Pinkie.

"You laugh at me, I wrath at you" Fluttershy exclaimed.

"And nobody messes with new Jamie!" Jamie added.

"Oh my Celestia!" Kodi jaw-dropped as Jamie and Fluttershy kicked the doors out of the way and began going their separate ways with Jamie heading back towards the library while Fluttershy let out a whistle, calling in a taxi carriage, much to her joy. But as Fluttershy was about to hop on, another pony came in and jumped into the carriage, not even caring or even worried on what he just done.

"Nopony pushes new Fluttershy around!" Fluttershy exclaimed before jumping into the carriage and started beating up the pony, kicking him out and forced the taxi carriage driver to go. She then gave out a threatening look and exclaimed "NEVER!"

We all widened our eyes in shock, unable to believe that any of this was happening.

"No...way..." I muttered. This isn't happening, right? No way...Fluttershy...Jamie...have you two...change?

"Old Pinkie Pie is not so sure new Fluttershy is such a good idea after all." Pinkie commented.

"Old Rarity agrees." Rarity nodded in agreement.

"We gotta do something and fast before they go too far!" Kaede exclaimed.

"She's right!" I nodded in agreement with a worried and concern look. "I was starting to have doubts when they started testing out the lessons Iron Will taught them, but after seeing all that, I-I'm not so sure they're who they are anymore!"

"You're right. Let's split up and talk to them." Mason suggested. "Me, Carrie, Jack, and Kaede will go and help Jamie. You, Kodi, Pinkie, and Rarity go over to Fluttershy. After all..." Mason turned to me with a serious look and said "You're the only one who can help her from her situation."

"...Okay." I nodded.

"Don't worry, I'll track Fluttershy's scent." Kodi assured with a confident grin before sniffing from the ground and began trailing Fluttershy's scent. "Alright! Follow me!"

Me, Rarity, and Pinkie nodded before we began following after him while the others chased after Jamie. Oh man, please Fluttershy! Please be alright!



Third Person POV
Fluttershy was seen in her house, talking to hersel in a mirror with an with an excited but aggressive look on her face. Even her animal friends were terrified on seeing her like this.

"You got this, new Fluttershy! This day is yours! And nopony's gonna take it away from you! Am I right?!" She asked her animal friends with a cocky smirk on his face, but her voice was quite terrified as it cause the animals to faint in fear. Fluttershy let out a satisfied 'Hmph!' before exiting out of her cottage.

As she was about to leave, she noticed that her mailbox was filled up with letters, only to have the wrong addresses on them.

"What?!" Fluttershy exclaimed, taking the mail out of her mailbox. "He's delivered the wrong mail, again!"

She looked around before spotting the mailpony with oversize glasses taking out some mail out of his bag and putting them inside another pony's mailbox, only for them to drop on the floor. As he was about to leave, Fluttershy stepped in his way with an angry look on her face.

"Who-?!" Fluttershy glared angrily at him as she exclaimed "And new Fluttershy does not want the wrong mail delivered to her cottage."

"Ooh, did I mix them up again? So sorry about that." The mailpony apologized before taking out her mail. However, she got to his face, causing him to lose his oversize glasses as he widened his eyes in shock.

"'You apologize, I penalize!'" Fluttershy yelled, causing him to immediately run away. Only to get himself stuck inside of the mailbox somehow. She picked up a nearby stamp and placed it on his flank before she walked around and took her mail straight out of the mailpony's mouth.

As she begins walking and a mail carriage immediately coming out of nowhere and helping the poor fella out of the mailbox, Fluttershy was confronted by a tourist, who was looking at a map before he noticed her.

"Excuse me, do you know how to get to the Ponyville tower?" He asked curiously. She smiled and answered "Sure, you just-"

While she was talking, she accidentally dropped her mail into the dirty puddle, getting it all wet . 

"AH!" Fluttershy gasped as the tourist commented "Oh, that's a shame!"

Soon, Ren, Kodiak, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie soon arrives to the scene as they witnessed Fluttershy angrily glaring at the tourist.

"'You make me lose, I blow my fuse!'" Fluttershy exclaimed before grabbing his camera and throwing him around before launching him into a hay stack and his camera hit against a bell straight from the Ponyville Tower, which made him happy since he finally managed to find it.

"F-Flutters?" Fluttershy turned back, only to be confronted by her special somepony and friends. Ren was in shocked, unable to process by anything on what just happened.

"Fluttershy! What are you doing?! That's no way to behave!" Rarity exclaimed.

"Didn't you see what he did to new Fluttershy?" Fluttershy reminded her as she continued "And he thought new Fluttershy was a pushover!"

"No Fluttershy! He didn't think of that!" Ren exclaimed.

"Ren's right, sweetie. He didn't. We saw the whole thing." Rarity stated. "We think that you and Jamie taken your assertiveness training a little too far."

"Really too far!" Kodi added, nodding in agreement.

"What?!" Fluttershy hissed, which frightened them a bit. "You just want new Fluttershy to be a doormat like old Fluttershy! But old Fluttershy is gone!"

"What?" Ren asked, his expression turning a bit pale. "No...Fluttershy! This isn't you!"

"It is Ren and I'm starting to like the new Fluttershy instead of old Fluttershy!" Fluttershy chuckled devilishly.

"New Fluttershy? Old Fluttershy?!" Pinkie gaped.

"What happened to nice Fluttershy? We want that Fluttershy back." Rarity pleaded.

"No, you all want wimp Fluttershy." Fluttershy scoffed. "You want pushover Fluttershy. You want do-anything-to-her-and-she-won't-complain Fluttershy!"

"That's not true! That's not we think Flutters!" Ren retorted, feeling a bit angry. "Please! We think of you as the best friend we never had! I think of you as the best girlfriend ever! You taught me about love and this...this isn't you!"

"He's right!" Pinkie agreed, holding her head as she held a dizzy expression as she said "Besides, too many Fluttershys to keep track of! Make it stop!"

"Things getting too complicated for your simple little brain, Pinkie Pie?" Fluttershy chuckled in a taunting way.

"Now, stop right there!" Rarity said with a stern and serious look on her face. "Let's not let things descend into petty insults!"

"Why not? I thought 'petty' was what you're all about, Rarity." Fluttershy evilly grinned, flying into the air while Rarity gasped on what she said. Even Ren and Kodiak were shocked by what she said ? "With your 'petty' concerns about fashion."

Rarity looked at her with a shocked look before tearing up a bit.

"Hey, leave her alone! Fashion is her passion!" Pinkie exclaimed, glaring at Fluttershy.

"Oh, and what are you passionate about? Birthday cake? Party hats? I can't believe that the two most frivolous ponies in Ponyville are trying to tell new Fluttershy how to live her life when they are throwing their own lives away on pointless pursuits that nopony else gives a flying feather about!"

Ren and Kodi jaw-dropped in shocked, their expressions turning pale by everything they heard from Fluttershy. Even Pinkie Pie started crying, along with Rarity.

"Looks like nasty Fluttershy is here to stay!" Pinkie cried out.

"I cannot believe what that monster Iron Will has done to you!" Rarity exclaimed in tears before the two immediately ran away back to Ponyville, with tears in their faces.

"Iron Will's not a monster, HE'S A MINOTAUR!" Fluttershy yelled before flying down with Ren and Kodiak looking at her.

"No Fluttershy....you're...the monster..." Kodi muttered, which made Fluttershy upset upon hearing that.

"What you say?!" Fluttershy exclaimed.

"Flutters! Stop it!" Ren yelled out, causing her to look at him with a bit of a shocked look. Ren put a hand on his forehead as his expression turned darkened. "I-I...I can't...believe it. I thought those lessons really helped you, but instead...it turned you into a different pony! I-I...I don't even know you anymore!"

Fluttershy looked at him, seeing Ren tearing up a bit. She fell to her knees and looked at her reflection, realizing that her friends were right.

"I'm....the monster..." Fluttershy muttered, starting to tear up as well as a tear dropped down on the puddle. Kodi noticed this and nudged Ren, who pointed over to see the crying Fluttershy.

"Flutters..." Ren crawled towards her before hugging her, along with Kodiak. Fluttershy began whimpering and crying loudly before saying "I-it's all my fault! I-I'm a monster Ren! I-I...I...AHHHHHH!"

"It's okay Flutters! Don't cry! I'm sorry for what I said." Ren cried, letting tears out. Kodi saw this and began tearing up as well.

"Stop it you guys. When you cry, I cry too." Kodi cried, nuzzling his two friends as the two comforted each other, with Fluttershy finally realizing how wrong she said all those things.



Meanwhile
Jamie was seen walking over to the Golden Oaks Library with a confident and snarky look on his face while passing by some ponies, only to bump into somepony, much to his irritation.

"Hey!" Jamie called, only to get a scoff from the pony.

"Oh, sorry sir." The pony apologized, which wasn't enough for Jamie as he gave out an angry look at him.

"'Sorry for those who aren't truly worried'"! Jamie exclaimed, pushing him into a barrel of water, getting himself wet before he got up and immediately ran away in fear.

Mason, Carrie, Kaede, and Jack arrived to the scene and saw Jamie making fun of the pony that fell into the water before he returned to his stroll.

"Jamie!" Kaede called, gaining his attention.

"Oh hey guys, I'm so glad to see you." Jamie smirked. "Can you believe that jerk just got in the way like that? Thank god that I managed to make him feel sorry for pushing me like that."

"We saw the whole thing." Mason said before he sternly crossed his arms and stated "However, that pony apologized and yet you pushed him into that barrel."

"Dude, that's messed up." Jack commented with a bewildered look.

"So what?" Jack asked with a cocky smirk, which surprised the gang. "He deserved it, didn't he?! I had the right to do that!"

"But Jamie, what you did was wrong!" Kaede exclaimed. "You went to the seminar in order to improve on being assertive, along with Fluttershy, but it's turning you two into the bullies yourself!"

"Oh please, like I need your speech!" Jamie scoffed. "Besides, since when you started helping out?"

"What?" Kaede asked in confusion.

"You rarely helps us because your only talent is to sew and yet you did nothing to help at all!" Jamie exclaimed, which made Kaede shocked by what was she hearing.

"N-no! That's not true! I help out, it's just that-"

"Just what?! It's because you have no useful skill?! No other talent?! Not even a loving family?!" Jamie yelled, which made Kaede cover her mouth in shock as she tried to hold back the tears.

"Jamie! That's enough!" Mason exclaimed. "You're going too far! This isn't you!"

"The old me is gone! He was nothing but a coward! All he ever did was back away and get yelled at! Well this new Jamie is ready to take on anything!" Jamie held a cocky smirk, which made the others feel shocked upon seeing this.

"Alright you nerd! You stop this right now!" Jack demanded.

"Wow, big order from the fat guy himself." Jamie rolled his eyes, which anger Jack as he grabbed him by the tie as he held a threatened look and exclaimed "What the hell did you say, nerd?!"

"I'm saying that you're always teasing me a lot for my book smarts and don't even bother to befriend or even trust us at all! You like picking on me, even during training! Well I'm sorry for not being as strong as you! I'm strong and I have ambitions unlike the others!" Jamie yelled before letting out a chuckle with a cocky smirk. "Besides, you don't understand anything about what life I've been through."

"Huh? W-what are you talking?" Carrie asked in confusion.

"I'm saying that you guys don't understand anything about me. I was always ridicule by others and always wanted to be strong and you guys were willing to help me. But right now, when I finally have the chance to become strong and be assertive, along with Fluttershy, you guys started judging me for that!" Jamie scoffed before letting out a chuckle. "You guys were just using me, right? You never cared about me, huh?"

"Jamie, that's not what we think." Mason stated, shaking his head before saying "We do care about you. Why would we-"

"You don't get what hell I've been through! I was always picked on by others and since then I've stopped trusting others! Not my father even helped me because he was too busy with his business instead of his own family!" Jamie exclaimed in outrage, which gotten every pony's attention as they turned to the scene. The others were shocked by seeing Jamie like this before Jack dropped him down on the ground with the bookworm landing on his feet. "Idon't get it...You guys kept encouraging me to get stronger...and look at where it led...You guys just hate me, do you?"

"....No, we don't." Mason stated.

"What?" Jamie asked.

"We understand why you're acting up like this, Jamie." Mason clarified before giving him a serious look. "We wanted you to grow stronger, but right now, you're acting up like a bully. You think that you've been through hell? Me and Carrie been through tough times since our parent's divorcement."

"Yeah, and we never had anyone other than the Ortega Family to take us in. We understand where you're going through." Carrie smiled a bit with a sympathetic look on her face.

"Yeah..." Kaede nodded, wiping away her tears. "I know that I haven't been that helpful to anyone, but I wanna try. I wanna help and not feel left out, and I know you do."

"...Yeah." Jack grinned, letting out a chuckle and a toothy grin. "Who knew you had the guts to say that in front of my face? You keep complaining that you're weak, but right there proved to me that you were strong James. Ha ha ha! Guess you're okay in my book."

"What?" Jamie asked in confusion.

"Jamie, we understand why you're angry, but you're turning your own strength against the others instead of helping others." Kaede explained before placing a hand on his shoulder with a soft smile. "We know how you felt and all that anger must be from all the anger you held back all these years from your childhood. It's okay to be angry and try to defend yourself from those being a jerk to you, but...doing all this stuff and ended up being the bully towards those who aren't truly jerks isn't gonna help you. It's okay to be assertive, just...not too much, please?"

Jamie looked at them before darkening his expression before letting out a whimper and started crying. Kaede hugged him, along with Carrie, Mason, and Jack, who gave him a pat on the back to cheer him up.

"I-I'm so sorry! I-I didn't...I didn't want this! I...I just wanted to be strong to help others...but instead...I only made things worse!" Jamie cried out. 

"Yeah, yeah, yeah. We get it. No need to cry it out." Jack sighed, patting him on the back while Jamie continued to cry out in tears, unable to take back everything he said to them.

"It's okay Jamie. We know you didn't mean that." Carrie smiled, hugging Jamie.

"She's right." Mason smiled softly. "We know that you're a good person, Jamie. You just went too far, that's all."

Jamie let out a few whimpers and said "...T-thank...you...."

"Now come on, let's go home." Kaede said. "Maybe you need some rest and cool your mind off."

"...Okay..." Jamie nodded before getting up as the others took him back home while some of the ponies looked over there and wondered what was happening with that human boy. Unbeknownst to them, Rantaro was leaning against a wall, drinking a cup of Cappuccino in his hands with a solemn look on his face.

"...No need to hide it kid. I know how you feel about that..." Rantaro muttered before walking off.



The Next Day
Ren's POV
...Ugh, what the? Where am I?...Oh right. I'm back in my room. It was the day after Fluttershy and Jamie went too crazy with their assertive lessons. After I managed to make Fluttershy realize on what she has done so far, she cried so hard while me and Kodi comforted her. We decided to head back home to help comfort her more and I...allowed her to sleep with me. In fact, I heard the others brought back Jamie to his senses as he apparently cried so hard as well. They managed to bring him realize that everything he's been doing was wrong. So now, our two friends are now realizing that Iron Will's training was nothing more than a bad seminar to even take upon.

I was in my PJ's with Kodi sleeping on my stomach and Fluttershy sleeping next to me, causing me to blush madly. Man, this is quite embarrassing now that you're finally understanding love, huh? I think I've seen anime characters who fall in love with each other and unintentionally sleep with each other and make one of them feel embarrassed on doing this. Yep, I'm in that kind of situation now.

"Uhh...." Fluttershy slowly began waking up before noticing me sleeping next to her. "Oh! U-uh...good m-morning R-Ren."

"Heh heh...good morning Flutters." I chuckled, forming a little blush on my cheeks. 

We both stared at each other, making things awkward between us. I cleared my throat while Fluttershy glanced away nervously at us, wondering what should we do now.

"Aaahh..." We turned around to see Kodiak letting out a yawn before getting up and shaking his body and opening his eyes, seeing Ren and Fluttershy together. "Hey guys, what's up?"

"Hey there, boy." I smiled happily while Fluttershy giggled to see Kodiak not noticing this. "Oh boy, what a rough day yesterday, eh?"

"Y-yeah..." Fluttershy nodded, still feeling ashamed for all her actions. I noticed her discomfort before kissing her on the cheek and said "Don't worry Flutters, you just went too far, and so did Jamie. Now come on, let's go get some breakfast. I'm sure that we can forget what happened yesterday."

"Yeah." Kodi and Fluttershy nodded in unison before we got up as I headed into my room's closet and took off my PJ's and put back on my original attire before we headed out of my room and came into the living room and into the kitchen/dining room, where we encountered the others.

"Oh, good morning Ren...Kodi...Fluttershy." Kaede greeted, brushing her hair to make it look good again. The others were sitting down on the table eating pancakes. Jack immediately was eating a ten pancake stack since he's...you know.

"O-oh...good morning." Fluttershy greeted as we sat down on the chairs while I noticed Jamie looked really tired with tear stains over his eyes. God dang, he must've really cried so hard last night. 

"O-oh...hey you guys." Jamie greeted with a weak grin.

"Hey Jamie..." I smiled a bit, hoping to cheer him up. Soon, there was that awkwardness again and it feels like that we're only making things worse than before. With that, I decided to speak up in hopes of making things better.

Unfortunately, I was too late as two of my friends spoken up. 

"I'm so sorry everyone!" Fluttershy and Jamie apologized in unison before turning to each other and asked "What?"

I let out a chuckle at that while the others laugh at that.

"Hey, it's okay you two." Mason assured with a soft grin. "We know that you two didn't mean to say those things. Trust us, we know how you feel."

"Big brother's right, you know." Carrie nodded in agreement.

"But still...I still feel so horrible for all the hurtful things I've said." Fluttershy stated. "I just can't go outside with my running mouth anymore..."

"Same here." Jamie nodded before burying his face with his hands. "I'm not so sure if I can even stop all this..."

"Don't worry you guys, I'm sure that you two will." Kaede encouraged.

"And if it doesn't work out, then maybe you should go away." We all turned to Jack with deadpanned looks, who noticed it. "What? I'm just joking around."

KNOCK-KNOCK-KNOCK!

"Huh? Who could that be?" I thought aloud.

I headed over to the door and opened it, revealing two familiar friends of ours. 

“Hello Ren darling.” Rarity greeted while the others looked over and became surprised to see both Rarity and Pinkie, but no one was more shocked than Fluttershy and Jamie, who duck their heads down in fear. “We were wondering if anyone seen Fluttershy and Jamie?”

“Yeah! We just want to talk her.” Pinkie added.

“Well…” I rubbed my cheek in embarrassment, already knowing that Jamie and Fluttershy wouldn’t want anyone they’ve hurt to come over and see their faces.

“They’re hiding underneath the tables like little babies.” Jack said, causing us to give him deadpanned looks. “What? Isn’t that what they wanted?”

Mason let out a frustrated sigh before turning back to Rarity and Pinkie as he said “Anyway, they’re not in the mood.”

“But…we need to talk to her.” Rarity begged. Fluttershy and Jamie poke their heads out of the table as the former said “P-please! Just go away! Go away before nasty Fluttershy strikes again!”

Oh god, they’re using those crazy third person nicknames again.

“Oh, sweetie, we all said things that we regret.” Rarity apologized.

“Wait, we did?” Rarity asked with a raised brow, which made Rarity shushed her to be quiet.

“No, everyone’s right.” Jamie spoke up, his tone turning into fear. “We’re the only ones to blame.”

“But don’t worry, we’re never coming out of the home-ship again.” Fluttershy added, much to my shock. So they’re gonna stay up here in the home-ship and never show their face in Ponyville ever again? “Everypony will be a lot safer with us and our mean mouths locked away.”

“But you can’t!” Kodi exclaimed. “It’s not you guys’ fault!”

“He’s right. Blame Iron Will, he’s the one that made you guys go this far!” I nodded with a serious look on my face.

“And sweeties, Pinkie and everypony doesn’t blame, nor I do. You just received some bad advice from that Iron Will character.”

“Yeah! He’s the one that made you act super-duper nasty!” Pinkie exclaimed, which made the two duck their heads in pain while some of us gave her glares. “What I mean is, there are other ways to assert yourself besides yelling at everypony!”

“Yeah! What Pinkie said!” Kaede smiled towards them as she said “You both can stand up for yourself without being unpleasant about it.”

Fluttershy and Jamie both came out underneath the table and looked at each other in worried before Jamie said “I-I’m not sure we can. We’ve too far gone.”

“Whenever I try to assert myself, I become a monster.” Fluttershy added, lowering her head in shame until I came over and patted her on the back, making Fluttershy smile happily at that. The others came and comforted Jamie, who made a soft grin at them.

“Don’t worry, we’ll help ya!” Carrie smiled.

“Like we said yesterday, you two just need help.” Mason winked.

“And besides, you two aren’t monsters.” Rarity waved it off.

“No, but he is.” Huh? We looked over to see Pinkie looking out the window as we came over and saw a familiar Minotaur walking straight towards our home. 

“Oh god no…” I muttered.

“What the hell is that?!” Jack exclaimed.

“That’s I-Iron Will!” Jamie exclaimed in shock. “B-but what’s he doing here?”

“Something tells me that he isn’t here for a friendly visit.” Mason narrowed his eyes at Iron Will while I held against my Hacking Gun in fear until we heard loud knocking. Everyone looked at each other in worried before me and Kodiak walked up and opened the door, encountering Iron Will at the door.

“Oh hey Iron Will.” I greeted with a nervous grin. “Funny to see you again.”

“Of course I do! ‘Whenever Iron Will goes, his legacy lives on!’” Well that’s quite boastful if I do say so myself.

“And who on Equestria is this?” Rarity questioned with a raised brow as some of the others came to join in with us.

“Iron Will’s my name, training ponies is my game!” He announced, flexing his muscles while we heard background music playing, which I noticed his little goat men were using a radio to play some song. Well this guy makes me feel like that he’s some celebrity or something. 

“What a darling little catchphrase.” Rarity chuckled nervously.

“Your friends, Fluttershy and Jamie Watson loved Iron Will’s catchphrases!” Iron Will laughed. “Word on the street is that they don’t take no guff from nopony! So, Iron Will is here to collect Iron Will’s fee.”

“I’m sorry, what?” Mason questioned, his eyes widening a bit.

“You heard me! Iron Will is here to collect Iron Will’s fee from Fluttershy and Jamie Watson!” Iron Will clarified.

“Now hold on! I thought you were joking about that during the seminar!” Kodi said, glaring at the Minotaur. Iron Will bend down to his height and poked his nose before saying “’When Iron Will wants something, he gets it!’”

“Grr!” Kodi growled angrily while I glared angrily at him. Unbelievable! First he turned Fluttershy and Jamie into different pony/person, now he just wants to collect their bits from this guy?!

“Well you can’t.” Kaede said, feeling a bit scared and intimidated by his appearance. “Fluttershy and Jamie are in no shape to deal with you!”

“Yeah! They wouldn’t spend their money on a big bully like you!” Carrie exclaimed, which Mason held her back in hopes not wanting to start a fight.

“What’s that?” Iron Will asked in a threatening tone.

Rarity let out a small gasp before chuckling nervously and said “I’m sure a big, brave, powerful, and rich monster–I mean, minotaur like you doesn’t need that money right away. You can afford to come back later.”

“Are you kidding? Fluttershy and Jamie are overdue as it is. Iron Will collects now! I know they’re here in this little big spaceship! Now bring them out NOW!” He stomped his foot on the ground, causing a minor earthquake in our home as some stuff fell down on the ground and we held against the shake before looking at him with nervous, scared, and angry looks. I let out a gulp, realizing that he’s as stubborn as Jack, since these two won’t change their minds that easily.

“Now hold up, how can you be so sure they’re here?” Kaede questioned.

“Easy, I had some ponies telling me that they saw a bunch of humans talking with a blue haired teen and there was a lot of emotional stuff happening.” Kaede, Mason, Carrie, and Jack, who was with Fluttershy and Jamie to make sure Iron Will didn’t see them, sweat-dropped upon realizing that they made a scene from what I heard today. “And they told me they were heading back to where they’re living and it’s right here in this spaceship home place or whatever! Now where are they?!”

“Uhh…” I looked over to them, seeing those two were really frightened. I couldn’t let them deal with this guy! Not in a million years! “No way! We’re telling you where they off! And even if they were here, they wouldn’t pay you at all!”
“Yeah right, Iron Will will get his pay right now!” Iron Will demanded.

“No way!” I exclaimed, which made him snort angrily.

“Ren! Be careful!” Kaede warned.

“Ren, stay away from him!” Mason said, worried about what might happened to me.

“I can’t you guys! I’m not gonna let this guy hurt my friends just to collect some fee!” I stated, glaring at the minotaur, who glared back at me.

“Yeah! Why would they pay you money after you turned them into monsters!” Kodi growled while Iron Will barked up some laughter on what he said.

“Are you kidding?! Iron Will’s seminars’ helped them improve!” Iron Will boasted. 
“Iron Will made them into non-pushovers!”

“No, you turned them into jerks and bullies!” I retorted. “Jamie and Fluttershy just wanted to defend themselves and the rest of us, but thanks to your lessons, it made them turned…different. I like the old Fluttershy and Jamie because they’re always helpful, and kind. Fluttershy is the best friend a guy like me could ever ask because of her timid, shy, and kind personality that makes anyone can’t stay mad at…well, besides Rainbow Dash and Jack.” I could see Jack giving me a death glare on that remark before I continued “And Jamie…sure, he’s timid and a coward, but at least he tries his best to be brave and courageous. He never trusted us at first and was too scared to form bonds, but after a while, he started to accept us as his family. Hell, as his family. So if I were you, just leave and never come back. Please Iron Will.”

Everyone looked at me in awe and shock on everything I just said, and Iron Will felt shocked by this before glaring angrily at me.

“Iron Will don’t care about that little speech! Iron Will came here for one thing only: To collect Iron Will’s fee! So tell me where they are or else!”

“Or else what?” I asked, feeling a bit intimidated by him now. Oh crap, please don’t tell me that-

“Or else Iron Will will teach ya lesson about respect!” Iron Will threatened, raising his fist into the air while the others were shocked by this.

“Yeah right. Like I’m afraid of you. Just leave everyone alone!” I demanded, which pulled the final trigger for him.

“Alright! You asked for it!” Iron Will prepared to throw a punch at me as I stood my ground until both Fluttershy and Jamie stepped up, forcing Iron Will to stop and his fist nearly made contact to their faces. Holy crap! I feel like what they did was a reference to something, am I right? I think it was somewhere in Danganronpa 3: Despair Arc, right? Anybody watched it before? 

Iron soon formed a cocky grin and said “Well well well, looks like I don’t have to find you two anymore.”
He pulled out his hand and gestured to have his money, only to have both Fluttershy and Jamie looked at him with soft but angry glares.

“No.” Fluttershy answered.

Iron Will widened his eyes and sneered at the two before asking “What did you say?”

“No.” Jamie replied. “We aren’t gonna pay for someone that nearly tried to hurt my friend.”

“Oooh, I’d hate to be you right now, because Iron Will is gonna to rain down a world of hurt unless Iron Will gets his money pronto!” He snorted down on their faces, causing them to cough a bit from the smoke coming out of him, but it didn’t make them back down.

“We said no and that’s final.” Fluttershy said with a soft and stern look on her face. 

“As we recall, during your workshop you promised one hundred percent satisfaction guaranteed, or you pay nothing.”

“Well, we’re not satisfied.” Jamie crossed his arms, holding onto his notebook tightly.

“What do you mean you’re not satisfied?!” Iron Will exclaimed angrily. “EVERYPONY HAS ALWAYS BEEN SATISFIED!”

“Well, I guess we’re the first then.” Jamie stated. “But since we’re not satisfied, we refuse to pay. It’s simple as that."

The goats bleated in shock while Iron Will felt worried and extremely surprised upon hearing all this.

"Ohh, are you...sure you're not just a little bit satisfied? B-because maybe...we could cut a deal. I-I mean we're both reasonable creatures, aren't we?" Iron Will chuckled nervously.

"I'm sorry, but no means no." Fluttershy replied with a serious look on her face.

"She's right. You may be a great motivating person, but your reasons on doing the seminars are quite...uncanny. If I were you, I would leave please or else you'll be answering to my friends." Jamie stated, pointing over to us. Jack came over as he cracked his fists, Kaede, Rarity, Pinkie, and Carrie giving him glares, Mason taking out his bamboo pole, and me taking out my Hacking, along with Kodiak growling at him.

Iron Will looked at us for a while before forming a smirk and said "No means no, huh? Nopony's ever said that to me before."

"Uhh...what?" Kodi questioned. 

"Huh...I gotta remember that one. That's a good catchphrase for my next workshop." Iron Will grinned.

"Just get the hell out of here before I'll show you real pain!" Jack exclaimed, cracking his knuckles. "And trust me, it ain't gonna be pleasant."

"Oh yeah? And who's gonna make Iron Will go, chubby?" Iron Will threatened, causing me to aim my gun at him and shout 'Link!'

A heart shaped beam was shot out of the hacking gun, hitting both Iron Will and his goat goons as they felt under the Hacking Gun's Link effect.

"Okay, how about this? Just leave and never ever come back and harm my friends ever again? Simple enough, eh?" I asked with a smile.

"Okay." Iron Will and his goons said in unison before exiting out of our home and began taking their leave for good.

"Phew, that was a close one." Kaede sighed before smiling over at me and said "Thanks for getting him out of there, Ren."

"Nah, you should be thanking Jamie and Flutters for that." I said, pointing to the two.

"W-who? Us?" Jamie questioned.

"Renny's right! You were amazing, Fluttershy! You totally stood up to that monster!" Pinkie smiled happily before she hugged her tightly, along with the rest of us.

"In fact, you didn't change at all! You were the same old Fluttershy and Jamie that we've always loved!" Rarity added.

"Don't worry, old Fluttershy's back for good." Fluttershy assured with a soft grin.

"And so is old Jamie." Jamie chuckled, trying his best to hide his blush. He then form a frown on his face and said "I'm sorry I took the whole assertiveness thing too far."

"Me too. I feel so awful on everything I've said to you guys." Fluttershy glanced away sadly from us before I came over and hugged her, much to her surprise.

"It's alright you guys, we already forgiven you since yesterday. We know that you guys are good friends and didn't mean it." I assured with a grin. Fluttershy hugged me back while the others gave me a group hug as well.

"Thank you Ren." Fluttershy smiled before we ended our hug as she looked at me with a soft grin and asked "Friends?"

"Friends." We answered before we all started barking up laughter, happy to hear that everything's finally settled down.

"Meh, I rather taken that Iron Will guy in a fight." Jack scoffed. "Though I guess it would've been a fifty-fifty chance that I might've won."

"Possibly." Mason chuckled. 

"Well I hope we all learned a valuable lesson, eh?" Kodi chuckled. 

"Indeed." Fluttershy nodded before clearing her throat and began explaining about the lesson we learned today.

Dear Princess Celestia,
Sometimes it can be hard for a shy pony like me to stand up for myself, and when I first tried it, I didn't like the pony I became. But I've learned that standing up for yourself isn't the same as changing who you are. Now I know how to put my hoof down without being unpleasant or mean."

"And it's a good thing. I'll show it to Twilight when she comes back to Ponyville." Jamie wrote that lesson down in his notebook with a soft grin on his face. "Still though...thank you all for forgiving me...and Ren..." He turned to me with a soft smile and said "Thank you for thinking me as family..."

"No problem." I nodded with a grin.

"Well, it's still morning, what do you guys wanna do now?" Kaede asked.

"How about we watch some TV?" Carrie suggested.

"Well..let me go feed Angel at home and I can get started. He might be worried about me since I didn't come home last night." I nodded in understanding on what she meant by that as I said "Alright Flutters. Maybe we can watch some anime together after you're done with that."

"Okay, thank you Ren." Fluttershy chuckled before taking her leave while the others sighed in relief before Mason whacked me on the head.

"Ow! What was that for?!" I exclaimed, rubbing my head.

"THAT'S for nearly getting yourself killed." Mason said sternly before hugging me tightly and said "That's for standing up for Fluttershy and Jamie and helping them  stand up to Iron Will."

"Oh, thanks dude." I chuckled before feeling my shoulder being touched as I looked back to see Jack giving me a smile.

"You know Ren, you got some guts to stand up to a guy like that. It made me feel shocked by that too." Jack joked with a toothy grin. "You're okay in my book, Loodan!"

"O-oh! Thanks!" I grinned before seeing the expression on Jack's face turning to an angry look. 

"But first...I wanna ask, were you serious about me not liking Fluttershy, along with Rainbow Dash?!"

"Uh-uh..." I chuckled nervously with a sweat-drop, realizing that I'm in big trouble.

"Yep, he certainly did." Kodi nodded with a grin, causing me to sigh and slump my head down in disappointment. Wow, thanks a lot Kodiak. You're a real pal...



Meanwhile
Somewhere in a deserted part of Equestria, the masked figure is seen walking through a harsh sandstorm with a somewhat disappointed look coming from his mask.

"Hmm...so it would seem getting the Bearer of the Element of Kindness to lose her kind personality completely was a fail. I wasn't even expecting for one of those humans to even be a part of it." The masked figure said to himself. "I thought manipulating the ponies' darkness to make her go on edge will make her lose her temper and make her abandoned her element, but it would seem that I was wrong. Even that blasted human author exploded in anger that I though it would be that yellow Pegasus....Hmm...oh well, it doesn't matter. Those nine will soon join together and I can't wait for the fun to begin. But first things first, I need to make a little deal with an old 'friend' of mine..."

He stopped himself as he gazes up at a giant castle with many hornet-like holes on them. He sees a bunch of weird black bug-like creatures either hiding behind rocks or coming out of the castle. They all surround him and giving out hisses towards him until he raised his hand in the air, gesturing them to not make a move.

"Please friends, I only came here for one thing..." He looks up with a dark expression as only the vizor of his left eye part of his mask glowed crimson red. "...I wished to talk to your mistress."

To Be Continued
> Chapter 49 - It's About Time!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Huh, this is quite good Jamie. I’m surprised that you and Fluttershy learned this lesson from being assertive and standing up for yourself.”

“T-thank you Twilight..!” 

That’s quite a nice thing she would say, well unlike the other nice comments she said. After solving our little assertiveness problem yesterday, Twilight and Spike returned last night from coming back from Canterlot with Princess Celestia. Twilight was quite tired, so I helped her and Spike get some sleep, and sooner or later, Twilight woke up 5 A.M. in the morning while I was looking into some books. Though, I guess you can say that I wasn’t that surprised to see her awake this early because she loves waking up very early and get into studying.

“I can’t wait to send this message straight towards Princess Celestia tomorrow! She’s going to love it!” Twilight smiled happily before pouted a bit. “Geez, why did stuff like that happened while I was away?”

“Heh heh, at least you got to know the events.” I made a weak grin at her, still remembering how psychotic I went. No, psychotic is a strong word. Just…too crazy. Yeah. 

Twilight noticed my discomfort before giving me a worried and concern look and asked “Jamie…is this about from those assertive lessons you told me about? I know you said something about going too far.”

“Y-yeah…but it’s nothing, honest.” I smiled a bit, but deep inside, I was still feeling guilty on what I done. I-I still didn’t mean to yell at my friends like that…Even though we’ve move past it and all is forgiving, I still can’t help but wonder about it…I want to grow strong, but at the same time, I just can’t move past my weak self.

“Well…okay.” Twilight brought back her smile before walking over to her desktop and looking through some notes. “Right now, how about we get to sorting some books, eh Jamie?”

“W-well…” Before I could answer her, she let out a gasp which made became surprised and unintentionally waking up Spike.

“W-wha?!” Spike looked around, his face turning drowsy for being waking up this early. “What? What is it now?”

“It’s awful, it’s horrible, it’s tragic!” Twilight exclaimed in panic, causing me to scared and terrified on what she’s talking about.

“What? What?!” I asked in fear.

She shoved a calendar in front of me as I looked over at the month, along with Spike, who gave out a deadpanned look at Twilight and said “We forgot to celebrate Arbor Day?”

“Umm…Apparently not.” I replied, pointing over to a certain day on the calendar. “It would seem like she forgot to planned her scheduling for the month.”

“Exactly!” Twilight exclaimed, relieved to hear me get it right. “The problem is I just finished my schedule for the month, but I forgot to leave time to plan for next month! Don’t you see? There’s no time in my schedule to put together another schedule! ” She began pacing back and forth with an extremely worried look. “I could move my meeting with the Ponyville Hay Board to the following Tuesday, but then I have to rescheduled my lunch with Pinkie Pie, Kaede, and Ren, and you know what a nightmare Pinkie is with scheduling! This is an absolute disaster! My whole year could be thrown off!”

“And I woke up from an ice cream dream for this…” Spike groaned before covering himself with his blanket and pillow before falling asleep again. I sighed before looking back to Twilight with a nervous and soft smile and said “Why not I help you with that? Surely we both can figure out a way to rescheduled your schedules.”

“That’s a great idea Jamie! Thanks!” Twilight chuckled as I nodded as we began to look upon her calendar and stuff to look upon to see how we can fix this. Twilight has been to panic in stuff such as this. She always prepared and keeps schedules to keep herself organized. After all, she IS the prodigy of the ruler of Equestria. She's always ready to tackle and faces anything, even though sometimes she has a mental breakdown, so I heard from Ren once. 

She and I have so much in common, but the only difference is that she's quite positive and has faith in others and is confident in her abilities. I'm nothing but a simple mystery novelist to people. Speaking of which, I don't think I've written a book for a long while. Well it would make sense due to being in another world or something. Speaking of which, I don't think the others said anything about recovering any missing memories or something. Neither did I. I wonder what's going on?

"Oh my gosh, I think I did it Jamie!" H-huh? Oh right. I'm supposed to be helping Twilight on finding a way to make up for her next month's schedule, but it looks like she already found a way it would seem. 

"W-what? Y-you have?" I questioned, feeling a bit surprised to hear that.

"Yeah!" Twilight nodded excitedly and relief. "If I can find a way to read 'The Art of Invisibility Spells' and 'Thornhoof's Brief History of Canterlot' at the same time, that could leave me a half-hour scheduling window!" 

"T-that's great to hear." I chuckled lightly. "But you know, you should calm down from those gasps you give out. You almost gave me a heart attack."

"Oh right. So sorry about that." Twilight smiled sheepishly at me before we felt a gust of wind blow directly in our faces. Huh? I could've sworn that the windows were closed for tonight. "Huh?"

"W-what's going on?" I asked before noticing the wind was making weird lights. Hold on! Wind doesn't do that! W-what's happening?! Suddenly, a burst of light magically appeared in front of the library as we both covered our eyes and held our ground from the upcoming force until it started to die down. We both uncovered our eyes and gasped upon seeing we thought we would never imagined.

"Ah....Ah...." I choked upon seeing...another me and...Twilight... "AHHHHHHHHH!"

"W-what?" My other me asked himself and I gazed upon on myself to see that he...I-I mean, me and other Twilight looked badly bruised, they were wearing similar black stretchy shredded spandex suits, but the other Twilight was wearing an eyepatch, had a little scar on her left cheek, her mane was messed up, and had a bandaged over her forehead. 

I gaze at the other me, who looked almost normal, except that the spandex suit he was wearing was shredded in pieces, and had a bandaged arm cast, along with wearing an eye patch as well.. It would seem that he doesn't have that much damage than the other Twilight. Only question is....

"W-what's going on?" Twilight questioned as we walked towards the other clones of us before they got up from the floor and gave us serious looks.

"Twilight, Jamie, you've got to listen to us!" The second me asked seriously. "And it's very important, so please just-"

"Who are you guys?" Twilight questioned as she and I examined them. "I mean, you're us, but we're us as well. How can there be two us's?"

"She's right! T-this isn't scientifically possible!" I exclaimed before poking my other me's chest and said "You're not scientifically possible!"

"Twilight! Jamie! Please!" The other Twilight begged. "We have a very important message for you guys from the future!"

"You're from the future?!" Me and Twilight exclaimed in awe and shock. No way! There's no such thing as time travel! That's scientifically impossible! 

"That's right, now listen-"

"What happened to you? The future must be awful." Twilight said, cutting off her future self wording.

"Indeed! I-I mean, how can it be?! Time travel is impossible and has been the leading debate of theories from many scientists and theorists!" I added, shocked while amazed by hearing this. C-could be possible that time travel exist in this world? I know there are many magical spells that unbalanced logic and sense, but this clearly unbalances it all!

"Please! We don't have much time!" Future me begged.

"W-why? I-is there a problem future me?" I questioned until Twilight popped between and interrogated my future self and asked "Is there some sort of epic pony war in the distant future or something?"

"Actually, we're from next Tuesday." Future Twilight answered in a deadpan tone. "But that's not important right now!"

"I can't believe time travel is really possible! How did you, I mean, I figure it out?" Twilight amused herself with a light chuckle.

"Umm...Twilight, I feel like we need t-to ask them if we want to know how to prevent it." I suggested, quite eager to know what happened next Tuesday. How can something like what our future selves experienced happen in just a week?!

"There are time spells apparently in the Canterlot Archives." Future me answered. "I was still quite surprised myself to ever learned them, but right now-"

"Really? Where?! I've never seen them!" Twilight exclaimed.

"They're in the Star Swirl the Bearded wing. Now you have to listen to-"

"Is time travel fun, or does it hurt? I have so many questions-" Unfortunately, Twilight's future self covered her mouth in order to prevent her to stop talking.

"Please Twilight! This is very serious and it's an important thing for you two to know about the future in order to prevent this!" Future me exclaimed, accidentally raising his bandaged arm in the air, causing him to moan in pain.

"He's right you two! Now listen because we got a few seconds left and you've got to listen! Whatever you two do, don't-"

Unfortunately, it was already too late as magic began crackling around them, sucking them back into a magic ball of light before disappearing out of sight.

"Wait!" I called, already gone before I put two of my hands on my head with a pale expression. "Oh no! Oh no no no no! What were they gonna say?!"

"I don't know Jamie, but it must've been this important if they looked like this!" Twilight shook her head, having a panicked look on her face. "What were they trying to tell us? Their clothes, their mane, those injuries...Oh, what a mess they were!"

"Yes Twilight, I know!" I nodded, still panicking in fear. "I-I mean...are we?...or are we about to..."

"They were trying to prevent whatever horrible thing happens in the future!" Me and Twilight exclaimed in unison before we slowly turned to each other with pale expressions, realizing that we screwed up big time! Oh man oh man oh man! We screwed it bad! What can we do?! How are we going to prevent something if we don't know what it is at all?!

Suddenly, we felt another gush of wind and sparkling magic surrounding the inside of the library, much to our confusion. I-I don't get it, what's going on? Why is.....unless...!

A magical ball of light cackled into the library, creating a shock-wave throughout the library as we closed our eyes and held against the impact! Once the light died down, we uncovered them to see what just happened! Oh good, it's probably our future selves coming back and-

"Hey you guys!" Huh? Once we uncovered them, we jaw-dropped upon seeing who it was. 

"R-R-Ren?!" It was him in the flesh! He looked exactly like our Ren, but was wearing a black spandex suit like our future selves, only except that he looked totally normal and everything, but he was probably from the future as well!

"Yep, it's me!" Ren put his hands behind his back and made a toothy grin at us. "Just to answer your questions. No, this isn't a dream and I'm from the same timeline like your future selves."

"Really?!" Twilight grabbed him by the sweater's collar and began shaking him violently as she demanded "Tell us what's going on?! Please tell us! We need to know what's going to happen in our future! You need to tell us right now!"

"T-Twilight! Calm down!" I grabbed her by the shoulders and dragged her away from future Ren before I came and started shaking him violently too. "Please tell us! Why did our future selves looked like that?!...Actually, why are you still looking normal unlike our future selves?"

"Well you see...I'm not sure if I should tell you that." He chuckled nervously. 

"What?! Why?!" Twilight exclaimed in shock.

"Well I'm not sure if that'll break the laws of time travel or not, or maybe you guys might start bombarding me with questions like you did before with your future selves, right?" Me and Twilight blushed in embarrassment, realizing that he might have a point there. Though it's a possibility with the first option that we might cause something in the space-time continuum if they told us what happened. But even so, the future must've looked so bad that I don't think the rules even imply to that at al anymore! "But overall, I do have a message to give you!"

"Y-you do?" I asked incredulous as he took something out of his pockets and handed us a piece of paper. Me and Twilight looked at each other in relief and awe as I bowed my head repeatedly to him and chanted "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

"Heh heh, no mention it James." Ren chuckled before he turned serious and said "But don't open it just yet! You need to give it to my future me!"

"R-really? Why's that?" Twilight questioned.

"Don't question it! Just give it to him! And while you at it, tell him I said hi." Ren chuckled with a toothy grin and said "As well as time traveling is quite awesome! It makes me feel like I'm Marty Mcfly from Back To The Future!...Only except that I don't have a time traveling DeLorean..."

"...What?" Twilight raised a brow, not familiar with that movie. I think I've seen it once or twice back in my world. But how would something like that be similar to the Back To The Future trilogy?

"Well anyway, see ya next week!" Ren winked before he disappeared into the magic ball of light, just like before with our future selves.

We both blinked in shock until I spoke up and asked "...S-So?...What now?"

"Well I know one thing..." Twilight used her magic to grab the piece of paper out of my hands and looked at me with a serious look. "We need to warn everypony, even Ren and the gang!"

"O-Oh...R-right." I nodded in agreement before I grabbed my notebook from my desk and immediately headed out of the Golden Oaks Library with Twilight in tow as we went to warn the others! Hopefully they'll believe in the situation! Though I have a few questions that I wonder.

What were our future selves trying to warn? And if the future really is bad, then why does Ren look completely alright? Hopefully we'll find the answers when that said event occurs....



Ren's POV
"C'mon, Ren and Fluttershy! The party can't start until the party supplies get there!" 

"We know Pinkie! We're on it!" I assured as me and Fluttershy tried our best to carry a box filled with stuff. Man, this stuff is so heavy that it makes me feel like that we're carrying a box filled with rocks. 

"Wow, that's a lot of stuff Pinkie." Kodi commented.

"Is it for your next party?" Carrie asked curiously.

"Yep yep yep! It's gonna be one heck of a party!" Pinkie chuckled while she held the balloons in her hooves.

"Well we're...happy to...help...but...can I carry...the balloons next time?" Fluttershy asked, struggling to carry it.

"Here!" Jack came over and grabbed the box we were carrying with his bare hands in hopes of not seeing us struggle with it. "Work out on getting some biceps like me yesterday."

"I highly doubt that." Mason muttered with a blank look as we were walking through the streets until we bumped into somepony, mainly at Jack as he accidentally dropped the box, causing it to smash into pieces with a bunch of party equipment on the floor.

"Hey!" Kaede yelled in surprise. "Ooh...sorry about that Pinkie."

"It's alright, we can clean that up later." Pinkie grinned while we gave her incredulous looks. Well...Pinkie Pie has always been know to keep a positive vibe with us.

"Everyone! You need to listen to us!" Huh? Jamie? Twilight? What are those doing now?

"If it involves your little get-up, then we're all ears because that's hilarious." I looked over to see Rantaro leaning against the wall with a smirk plastered on his face. Everypony heard his comment and began laughing out loud, much to Twilight and Jamie's surprise until the former formed a serious look on her face and exclaimed "This is no laughing matter! We have a crisis on our hooves!"

A crisis? Of what exactly?! Everypony here gotten the same idea as they gasped and widened their eyes in shock.

“We’ve been visited by ourselves from the future!”…..What? Everypony started laughing at that while Jamie and Twilight felt shocked by this before noticing the funny glasses they were wearing before discarding them.

“No! We’re serious!” Jamie exclaimed. “Our future selves tried to warn us about a horrible disaster that’s going to occur sometime before next Tuesday morning!”

“Next Tuesday?” Mason questioned.

“So this disaster is going to happen next week?!” Kaede exclaimed in shock.

“What kind of disaster?” Applejack asked curiously, now feeling intrigued to hear this.

“We don’t know! We got sucked back to the future before we could explain anything!” Jamie shook his head before adding “Oh! And also, when they just left, Ren suddenly appeared from the future as well.”

“Wait…me?” I asked, pointing to myself. 

“Hold on, so Ren also came from the future?” Kodi questioned.

“Well it was after our future selves disappeared back to the future.” Jamie answered.

“Yes, and he left a very important message for Ren to read.” Twilight nodded before handing me the message from her magic levitation as I unfolded it and began reading it from my head.

 “Dear past me,

This is very important so listen up! Apparently, this whole ‘horrible disaster by next week’ is actually just future Jamie and future Twilight warning the past…or present, whichever comes first, about not get TOO worried about what’s going to happen. The reason why they’re going to become extremely worried and probably gonna have mental breakdowns during the week is because they didn’t get a chance to let future them tell them what’s going to happen. It’s for the best not to tell because they won’t listen to reason, well Jamie will sooner or later during the week, and it would ruin this for Twilight since this might be a good lesson to learn, especially Jamie. Just make sure to be prepared for what’s going to happen because it’s going to be one heck of a week.

P.S. - Time traveling is pretty freaky yet awesome dude! It makes us feel like we’re Marty Mcfly from Back To The Future…only except we’re not gonna use a DeLorean Time Machine to time travel. Sorry to disappoint you, I know how we feel right now upon reading this. Though, trust me, this is worth it.

(Happy face emoticon and thumbs up emoticon)

From,

Your future self.

P.S.S. - Don’t let the others, including Jamie and Twilight, read this.

….Huh, this is pretty cool. Though who would write an emoticon into a letter?…Oh right, it’s me. Make sense. I always do that whenever I’m on the computer. 

“Well, what does it say?” Jack questioned, rubbing his nose with his sleeve.

“Umm…” Well I can’t tell them due to this letter, so sorry about that. “Can’t tell ya. Future me told me to not tell any of you on what’s going to happen.”

“What?!” Twilight exclaimed. “Oh! This is just great!”0

“Wait, why in the world you can’t Ren?!” Kaede exclaimed. “Is it…something personal?!”

“You can say something like that.” I rubbed my head bashfully with a nervous grin. “It’s very important not to ask about it for a while.”

“Are you sure, Ren?” Kodi asked in worried. I scratched him underneath the neck, much to his joy. “Okay, I take it back. I trust you.”

“What?! Are you kidding me?! What if something happened that’s gonna prevent us from knowing what the hell is gonna happen?!” Jack exclaimed.

“Jack, please calm down.” Mason assured with a serious look before turning to me and asked “Ren, is there a reason why you won’t tell us?”

“Don’t ask me, that’s what my future self said in the note.” I raised my hands up in surrender, not wanting to get a stern talking from this guy.

“But…are we even sure we can trust that?” Rainbow questioned.

“Well it’s from future Ren, right?” Carrie reminded them. “So he’s no different from our Ren, right?”

“Carrie’s right. I say let’s trust this Ren and hopefully we might solve this little crisis we have.” Kaede agreed.

“Well I see why not.” Rarity chuckled.

“Meh…whatever.” Rantaro shrugged. “It might be fun instead of looking around this place for some clues.”

Everyone, including me, just ignored him as Jack crossed his arms in a huff before saying “Fine…but I swear if something happened then it’s on you, Loodan.”

“R-right…” I chuckled nervously while Twilight and Jamie sighed in exasperation.

“T-this is terrible! Now what are we gonna do?! We’re all gonna die from an unknown disaster next Tuesday!” Jamie exclaimed in worried.

“Everypony! Run for your liiiiiiiiife!” Pinkie yelled as she tried to run for her life, but gotten herself stuck between the strings of balloons. 

“…Should we help her?” Carrie asked, blinking in surprise.

“Let’s just wait till she stops screaming.” Mason sighed before turning back to Twilight  and Jamie before asking “Now Twillight, Jamie, how are we going to prevent this disaster?”

“Mason brings out a valid point. What ever should we do, Twilight?” Rarity questioned with a worried look.

“We’ll just have to work together to make sure we’re safe!” Twilight assured. “Rainbow Dash, you and the other Pegasi spread out all over Equestria, and look for any kind of problem that could lead to a disaster, and I mean, anything!” Rainbow let out a salute and said “You got it!”

With that, she let out a whistle, addressing to all Pegasi in Ponyville before they began flying off to explore the entire continent in hopes of finding a way to revert this terrible ‘disaster’ of theirs.

“Is this seriously happening?” Jack questioned with raised brows.

“Afraid so.” Applejack shrugged.

“Oh well, this should be fun.” Rantaro smirked.

“Do you think something like this is fun?! This is our future we’re talking about, Rantaro!” Twilight scolded.

“S-she’s right! We have to do everything as we can in order to prevent it!” Jamie agreed. 

“Whatever, I don’t have to worry about a thing.” Umm…that’s pretty high confidence this guy has, huh?

“So it looks like we’re going to stop another disaster huh?” Kaede asked before sighing “Man, this is probably gonna get tiring.”

“I’ll say.” I shrugged.

“Now then, everypony else…” Twilight stopped herself as everypony, including us, turned around to see Pinkie slowly floating in mid-air due to the strings of the balloon wrapped around her body somehow as she continued to scream before noticing our raised brows, blank and deadpanned looks.

“Anypony else wanna panic with me?…No? Okay!” Pinkie grinned before returning to scream like a banshee.

“So…what now?” Kodi asked.

“I think we’re going to save the world, right big brother?” Carrie asked, which Mason nodded.

“It would seem so.” Mason replied before turning to me and asked “Are you sure Ren that letter you are holding isn’t that important? It is from your future self who came from the same timeline as future Jamie and Twilight.”

“Like I said, it isn’t important.” I assured with a nervous grin before returning to my usual smile. “But right now, let’s just focus on preventing this crisis.”

“Well…alright then. I won’t press you further then.” Mason sighed.

“Alright everypony!” Twilight announced. “Time to disaster-proof Equestria!”

“And be sure to not l-leave a spot…everyone.” Jamie stated, which everyone agreed before they got to work.

“Can you believe it? Time-travel?” Jack questioned before scoffing “That sounds ridiculous!”

“I don’t know Jack, it might be possible." I shrugged. "I mean, anything can happen." 

"He's right. We've seen plenty of weird things that we thought it wasn't possible, but we were proven wrong." Mason stated, agreeing with me. "It's best if we do as Twilight and Jamie said. Who knows what might happen."

"Yeah! If what they said is true, including future Ren, then it must be important!" Carrie agreed.

"Well let's get to work, shall we?" Applejack grinned.

"Speaking of which, what about Pinkie Pie?" Rarity pointed over to the still screaming pink pony. Wow, how long did she screamed? Like...ten minutes or something?

"Should we...help her?" Fluttershy suggested.

"Don't worry, I got this." Kaede smirked before walking and went to untie Pinkie from the balloons' strings. We all looked at each other and shrugged before going over and be prepared to go over and see if we can prevent this so call disaster at hand. Hopefully this isn't quite serious like my future self said in this note.

"So Ren..." I looked down to see Kodiak looking at me curiously. "Are you sure that note your future self isn't important?"

"Yeah, don't worry bud. It's nothing important." I assured, scratching him underneath the chin. Though I wonder what kind of week we're going to have. Hopefully it isn't that bad.



Few Days Later
Jamie's P.O.V.

And so, a day has pass since me and Twilight declared Equestria to be disaster-free from any danger. Me and Twilight has been going over town to see how are things going so well in order to prevent the disaster we're about to face.

Mason,  Rarity, Applejack, and Jack were busy covering the damn's wall with some cement to prevent any flood happening in town. Mrs. Cake and Kaede were busy filling up the tank of the Ponyville water tank. Kaede, Pinkie, and Big Macintosh were busy screwing in the nuts and bolts on the wooden bridge that connects to the center of town what with the beam of the bridge having a crack that Big Macintosh was quite helpful on offering to help out, including Kaede and Pinkie Pie.

Carrie, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo were cleaning anything off the streets to make sure no one causes a garbage outbreak or something like that. Spike was painting inside of the Golden Oaks Library to prevent it from fallen apart or possibly having termites coming in and biting through the wood.

Next, Rarity and Kaede helped trimmed a piece of hair from Pinkie Pie because as you know...it's Pinkie Pie. The very pony in my entire existence since first awakening in this world to ever be the strangest yet illogical being on the planet.

Over by the afternoon, me and Twilight checked off every little thing in town in order to prevent the disaster.

"Done, done, and done." Twilight smiled before wiping off a sweat from her brow.

"It seems that everything has been checked off." I sighed in relief before writing it down in my notebook. Jack, Applejack, Mason, Kaede, and Rarity soon walked in, what with the former two covered in branches and leaves. "So Applejack, Jack, what about the Everfree Forest?"

"The perimeter's clear." Applejack assured. 

"Man, you weren't kidding about that damn forest being creepy." Jack said, scratching his butt. "It's making my butt feel uneasy."

"Please don't say that in front of us." Rarity said, looking away in disgust.

"Anyway, that's great." Twilight smirked, ignoring Jack's commented. 

"And my team gave the all clear from Fillydelphia to Las Pegasus." Rainbow announced, already returning back from her trip along with her Pegasi companions.

"That's a relief..." Kaede sighed in relief before realizing something. "Wait, there's a similar place of Las Vegas?"

"Wow, that's pretty cool. We should go there when we have time." Ren chuckled with a grin.

"Well either way, I say that we did a good job on disaster-proofing Ponyville." Mason smirked.

"Meh, it felt like small deeds." Rantaro shrugged. "I mean, if there was a dangerous disaster about to happen, then wouldn't it be something more dangerous other than picking garbage on the floor."

"Yeah, for once, I agree!" Jack crossed his arms with a growl. "Why the hell have we been doing all this?! Other than exploring that damn creepy forest and cementing the wall and whatnot."

"Just to be prepared. You never know what might happen." Twilight assured.

"S-she has a point. Who knows what might happen." I nodded in agreement.

"You make a good point." Kaede rubbed her head with a sigh before turning to Fluttershy and Ren as she asked "But do you guys think this enough to stop whatever disaster is about to happen?"

"Don't worry Kaede, I trust in Jamie and Twilight so I know everything will be alright." Fluttershy smiled softly.

"Flutters is right. We just need to be patient." Ren chuckled, shrugging a bit.

"That's the spirit!" Twilight smiled happily before frowning a bit. 

"U-umm...is there a problem, T-Twilight?" I asked in concern.

"Well it's just that we've done everything on the list, but still...our future selves looked like they'd been through a horrible ordeal." Twilight pointed out. 

"Y-you're right...that does seem strange..." Hmm...maybe Rantaro and Kaede have a point. I think there's more than just picking up garbage.

"Exactly! And I just have this nagging feeling we should be looking for something bigger than loose bolts and leaky pipes." Twilight added, rubbing her chin in thought.

"Come on, what could possibly be bigger than that?" Kodi joked.

"He's right. We've done everything on the list, so what's more?" Ren shrugged until we felt a rumble emanating from the ground. W-what was that? It didn't sound like an earthquake or something like that.

"What...the...hell...?" Jack widened his eyes with a shocked look before we looked back, and once we did, we were shocked to see what it was.

"ROOOOOOAAAAAAAAAR!"  

It was a big black three headed dog each wearing spiked collars on and it had an angry and monstrous look on its face.

"Okay everypony..." Pinkie called, causing most ponies around town to glance at her nervously. "Follow my lead."

She lets out a terrifying scream, along with the others before they began running away in fear while they hid either in their houses or anywhere as possible. We just stood there in shock and pale expressions as the three headed behemoth roared. 

"What in the world is that?!" Kaede exclaimed, her expression turning pale.

"That's what I wanna know!" We turned around to see Spike coming outside with a panic look on his face. 

"Oh hey Spike." Ren greeted.

"Oh hey Ren." Spike waved before looking back at the monster. "But seriously though, what in Equestria is that thing?!"

"The three heads...a gigantic dog like monster..." I began summarized its characteristics before widening my eyes in shock on what it was.

"It's Cerberus!" Me, Ren, and Twilight shouted in unison before turning to each other in surprise. 

"You know it too Jamie?" Twilight questioned.

"Yes, it is known as the Guardian of the Underworld in mythology and is said to guard the spirits who tried to escape into the real world to cause chaos and destruction there. It's even Lord Hades' pet." I explained before turning to Ren and asked "But I'm surprised that you know what it is Ren."

"Well of course. I've seen Hercules many times since I was a kid, including playing Kingdom Hearts 1 and 2."

"...Oh right, you're a gaming nerd." Rantaro shrugged with a bored look on his face.

"So wait, Cerberus is real in this world?!" Kaede jaw-dropped on hearing that.

"Of course he is!" Twilight nodded before she started on her own explanation about it. "Though, he's supposed to be guarding the gates of Tartarus. But if he's here, then all the ancient evil creatures that have been imprisoned there could escape and destroy Equestria!"

"Destroy Equestria?!" Carrie, Spike, and Kodi exclaimed in shock.

"Tatarus?" Mason questioned.

"Oh, I guess it's an alternate version of the Underworld." I answered before adding "Only difference is that it's real, including Cerberus."

"No frigging way! This is bullcrap! You're telling me this thing is the real deal?!" Jack exclaimed in both anger and shock. 

"Yeah! Isn't it great?" Everyone, including me, looked at Twilight with disbelieving looks. 

"How is this great?!" Mason exclaimed. 

"Because what if future Twilight and Jamie were trying to warn us about this beast? This could be the disaster they were talking about?" I blinked in surprise before humming on that possibility.

"That...makes sense." I nodded.

"So Cerberus could possibly bring the whole world to disaster?!" Ren exclaimed in shock.

"Well he does looks like he's angry." Carrie pointed out, seeing the enraged look on Cerberus's face. "H-he's scaring me, big brother..."

Carrie held Mason's hand in fear while Mason gave her a reassuring smile.

"Don't worry Carrie, you'll be fine." Mason assured.

"Yeah, let me talk to him." Kodi suggested. "Dog to dog."

"You sure Kodiak?" Ren asked in worried before Kodi gave him a confident grin and said "Trust me, I know what I'm doing."

"I highly doubt that..." Jack scoffed as Kodi began walking over to Cerberus with a calm smile as he greeted "Hey there! I'm Kodiak, Kodi for short. I know that you seem pretty upset, but right now, maybe you should relax and calm down, what do you say?"

Cerberus glared at him angrily before roaring into his face, causing his fur to poof up.

"Then again...maybe not." Kodi chuckled nervously. Cerberus unleashed his teeth and prepared to attack Kodi until Ren began running towards him and grabbed him before Cerberus bit him.

Ren managed to bring him back to us before settling him down next to me, Twilight, Kaede and Fluttershy before saying "That was a close one."

"Yeah, thanks for the save Ren." Kodi licked him in the face, causing Ren to laugh.

"Ren, Kodiak, please tell me that you're alright?" Fluttershy asked, flying towards him with a worried look.

"D-don't worry Flutters, I'm alright." Ren replied with a smile.

"Huh, that dog sure isn't gonna play around, huh?" Rantaro commented, tilting his hat a bit, which his pet raccoon, Gizmo, nodded in agreement.

"To hell that is! Somebody gotta stop him!" Jack exclaimed in shock.

"With pleasure!" Twilight perked up with a smile as she began to head towards Cerberus, but I stopped her and said "W-wait! A-Are you s-sure that's a g-good idea? What if something g-goes wrong?"

"Don't worry Jamie, everything is going to be alright." Twilight assured with an excited grin. "Besides, this is going to be amazing! Now defeating Cerberus and bringing him back to Tatarus will make sure our fates won't be sealed!"

"W-well..." I'm not so sure about this. This IS Cerberus we're talking about. I-I don't know how we can even defeat him or even make him obedient as Kodi.

"Trust me Jamie, just watch and learn." Twilight winked before walking over towards Cerberus as he began gnawing on one of the house rooftops' before noticing Twilight approaching him. "Hey, Cerberus! You look like you could use some obedience training! Magic Obedience training!"

Her horn began shining as she made a confident and determined look on her face while Cerberus let out a terrifying roar before charging towards her. I couldn't help but feel extremely worried for her. I-I have to save her! I can't let this happen!"

"Twilight!" I yelled before running towards her to save her until Ren came and took out his Hacking Gun before shouting "Paralyze!"

Ren shot out triple 'Paralyze' bullets at each of Cerberus's heads, causing each of them to be electrocuted. 

"U-uh..." I stopped myself while I looked at Ren as he held a smirk on his face while Twilight's horn stopped glowing before turning to Ren and said "Ren, I told you all I can handle it!"

"I know, but you had us worried!" Ren retorted while Mason and Jack came over with serious looks on his face while I backed away a bit with a sigh of relief. Oh well...at least Twilight is alright. Though, I wished I could've save her. Ren is always the one saving us, well besides some of us here, but...I never gotten the chance to save any of them before...I wished that was possible...

"Leave this to us Twilight!" Mason assured, glaring at Cerberus as he managed to get the affects out of his body before growling angrily at them.

"Oh alright..." Twilight pouted before running back and staying by my side as we watched over them about to fight Cerberus.

"What's up with him? He looks pretty upset." Ren pointed out.

"Yeah, no kidding." Jack scoffed before cracking his knuckles. "I never thought I would've fought against something like this before."

"Technically, neither did any of us." Mason stated before sighing "But then again, this isn't my first time fighting against a weird creature."

Huh? So he face one more menacing than a Cerberus? But what?

"Alright! Take this! Burn!" Ren shot multiple 'Burn' bullets at Cerberus, only for the three heads to swallow them and gulping powerfully before letting out a smoking burp. Ren sweat-dropped from that before commenting "Okay, so that didn't work..."

Cerberus let out another monstrous roar before charging towards them. Mason raced towards it before jumping into the air with his bamboo stick in his hands. Cerberus attempted to bit him, but he evaded each of the three heads by jumping all over them before slamming the one in the middle with a powerful whack from his bamboo stick. Jack came up before grabbing Cerberus' left head's collar and tried with all his strength to throw him down. Ren aimed his Megaphone Hacking Gun at the left head while Mason distracted the other two heads.

"Alright, let's try this again! Break!" Ren shot a 'Break' bullet at the left head, taking great damage of it before Jack threw it on it's back while Mason landed next to him before putting away his bamboo pole behind his back. Cerberus was down while we all gaped at this before letting out loud cheers at this. Wow, I never really though that they would take down Cerberus like this. No wonder why they're so strong, and I wished I could have this strength...

"Phew, that was a close one." Ren sighed in relief before turning to Jack and said "But I gotta say Jack, you were pretty strong bringing him down."

Jack made a cocky and toothy grin before replying "Well I am one of the strongest outlaw bikers of the Yamaki Gang! Nice of ya to at least show me some respect."

"Well either way, I'm glad we manage to take it down for a while." Mason commented before turning to Ren with a soft grin. "Nice shot Ren."

"Heh heh..." Ren rubbed his head bashfully before we heard a groan before turning around to see Cerberus getting back up, causing them to get back in their stances until they saw it started to pout.

"Is it...pouting?" Kaede asked in confusion.

"I...think it is." I replied, blinking in confusion. Why is it pouting like that? 

"Ooh, poor Cerberus!" Huh? We looked over to see Carrie and Fluttershy walking over and petting Cerberus' heads, much to our shock. "It's alright. You don't have to be afraid. My friends didn't mean to fight you." Fluttershy cooed, causing Cerberus to pant happily at that.

"Yeah! You're so cute!" Carrie giggled before giving one of Cerberus's heads a kiss on the forehead, causing them to blush before the heads licked the two of them, getting dog slobber all over themselves. "Tee-hee! Ahh, you're not so bad after all!"

"Huh, what luck." Jack sighed in relief.

"Tell me about it." Ren rubbed his head before walking over and touching Cerberus right head, causing it to feel relax before licking him in the face, causing him to laugh. "Huh, Carrie's right. He's too friendly to be evil."

"But why did he try to kill us before?" Kodi wondered.

"I...don't know." Twilight raised a brow while Fluttershy and Carrie gave him scratches underneath the chin, along with Kaede as she saw how cute and adorable Cerberus was really was. I still can't believe it. The guardian of the Underworld, the wretched monster that belongs to Hades, Lord of the Dead, is just so cute and friendly. But earlier, he was acting pretty aggressive, so why?

"Aww, he's just a big furry guy who got out of his yard, that's all. Right, Cerberus? Who's a good boy? Who's a good boy?" Fluttershy continued scratching him underneath the chin while the left head nuzzled her gently, along with Carrie and Kaede as they were nuzzled by the creature as well.

"Wow, I knew Flutters was good with animals, but that's awesome!" Ren beamed with a grin.

"It would seem so." Mason smiled, petting Cerberus's middle head as his two squirrels came out of his scarf and looked at Cerberus with awe and curiosity. "You know, I wonder if something happened to him that made him run away from his home."

"So it would seem." Rantaro tilted his head a bit. "But wow, never in my life that I encountered some mythical creature being a cute overgrown puppy."

"Took the words right out of my mouth." Jack agreed, crossing his arms in a huff. "So now what are we gonna do with it?"

"Can we keep him big brother?" Carrie begged, but Mason shook his head and replied "Sorry Carrie, but he needs to go back where he belongs."

"A-and besides..." I spoke up, gaining the others' attention. "We need t-to make sure that h-he needs to go back to T-T-Tartarus before those angry spirits Twilight spoke of might try and harm someone."

"Jamie's right." Twilight nodded in agreement before calling "Pinkie!"

Pinkie suddenly appeared out of nowhere from behind us and asked "Yes?"

"Whoa! Holy cow! Did anyone see where she came from?!" Ren exclaimed in shock. 

"Do you have a ball I can borrow?" Twilight asked curiously.

"I have balls stashed all over Ponyville, in case of ball emergency." Pinkie replied bluntly before taking out a ball out of a nearby tree before handing it over to Twilight. 

"Thanks!" Twilight smiled brightly before using her magic to levitate it and showed it in front of Cerberus's face. "Hey Cerberus! Look what I have!" 

Cerberus widened his eyes in joy before Twilight made the ball distanced itself away from him until he got up and began chasing after the ball.

"Lucky..." Kodi pouted, a little disappointed that he couldn't have a ball to chew on.

"Well, it's for the best." Mason sighed. Soon, Twilight began running alongside Cerberus as she looked back at us and said "I'll be back as soon as I've returned him to the gates of Tartarus. Once he's back at home, there'll be no disaster!"

"T-Twilight wait!" I called, gaining her attention as I began chasing after them. "C-Can I come too? J-just to keep you...company?"

"Sure! I see why not! Besides, it's not that far! Just follow me!" Twilight said as she kept going with Cerberus chasing after her while I tried to catch up to them.

"W-Wait! Come back!" I called before racing after them. Can't she ever slow down for me?

"We'll see ya guys later! Bye!" I heard Kaede called as the rest of the gang waved goodbye to us while I continued to chase after Twilight and Cerberus. I still can't believe that I actually got to see the real Guardian of the Underworld, or here as known as the Guardian of Tartarus. I think I read about it in one of the sections of the 'History of Equestria' biography. As a matter of fact, I'm starting to remember about Tartarus now because it's also a part of our history.

Tartarus is known for being the Underworld/Hell of this world. A place where the dangerous creatures of all times that once tried to harm the order of peace and harmony were locked up for all eternity. It seemed pretty much mythical, but I found them quite mysterious and intriguing. I wished to solve the mystery behind all this, including the situation we're in. 

I...always had a love with mysteries because they always had these unsolved things that many people had theorize and we try our best to solve its origins. I was known for being the type of mystery novelist to try and solve these kind of things, like murder, ancient artifacts, and such. Though, I'm not sure if...I'm the type for Twilight to ever like...

I know that I'm exaggerating, but if...what if Twilight doesn't see it in me? I mean, we're both trying to prevent a disaster that could possibly destroy Equestria, but seeing future me was quite surprising that it also got me panicking. But when I saw future Ren....he looked normal and claimed to come from the same timeline as me and Twilight's future self. So...what's the real truth behind it?

"Well...here we are." H-huh? Oh, I guess I was too busy with this monologue that I haven't noticed that we arrive to the gates of Tartarus. It wasn't anything new other than a giant cliff with a huge seal on the front.

"W-whoa..." I muttered before taking out my journal and began writing things down on my notebook, especially a little sketch of the gates of Tartarus. Hopefully, just nothing came out of this place. "S-so this is the place h-huh? It doesn't look so bad."

"Well sure, here on the outside." Twilight stated. "But inside...it really is a dangerous place where you're locked up for all eternity."

I widened my eyes as my expression turned pale upon hearing that. 

"Oh well, it's time for you to go home Cerberus." Twilight smiled before throwing the ball straight into the cave as Cerberus chased after it and headed inside of the cave, but before it did that, it stepped on a muddy puddle that was nearby the cave and due to the impact of how strong Cerberus was, it caused a huge splash, getting me and Twilight dirty.

"O-oh..." I groaned with a bored look on my face. And I just got my suit washed the other day.

"Don't worry, we'll get ourselves clean up when we get back to Ponyville." Twilight assured, which I nodded in agreement. "Right now, we should get out of here before Cerberus might try to leave Tartarus again."

"Y-you're right..." I said before covering my mouth in deep thought before looking over at the entrance to Tartarus. How did Cerberus get out of there in the first place? It would seem strange for a guardian of keeping evil spirits away to just leave its post, right? Yet another mystery that I have to solve later. 

Help...

Huh? W-who said that? 

Help....Avenge us...save us.....

Huh? Who's saying that? I began to grew scared as I backed away as the voices keep shouting to me.

Save us from our despair....save us....

Stop it! Why am I hearing these voices?! I keep hearing from that cave! Are they coming from the gates of Tartarus? Then are these voices from Tartarus?

"J-Jamie? Are you alright?" I heard Twilight asked me in worried, but I didn't hear her as I kept backing away in fear.

Despair...is what took our lives from him....save us from...our...despair...

Despair...despair....despair....despair....DESPAIR DESPAIR DESPAIR DESPAIR! AVENGE US FROM OUR DESPAIR!

"AHHHHHHHHH!" I screamed as I tried to run away in fear before tripping over and before you know, I blacked out. These voices....why do they sound so familiar to me? They...they feel so familiar to me....back then.....



"GET HIM!"

"Don't let him get away!"

Keep running! I don't wanna die! I...I have to live! Why? Why did it have to be me?! Why are they chasing me?! I kept running, and running, and running, and running until I hid behind an alleyway, and saw the ground running through the streets, not noticing me gone. I let out a sigh of relief before walking over to the other side of the alleyway in hopes of finding a place to stay away from them. I-I don't wanna die...what did I do to deserve this? I-is this because....of us being unaffected by 'it'?

As I continued to exit out of the alleyway, I saw a nearby television store as I witnessed a news coverage about something.

"I am live today with breaking news. Apparently, the government has plans of a special project that involves saving the lives of many others as he states, but apparently, this was a lie." The news anchor reported. "For you see, someone leaked info about the government planning on only sending the nine people that will be sent off for protection. If you see these people before, then please contact to the Anti-Void Organization."

The moment I saw those pictures, my expression turned pale as I saw myself on it. But...who would leak this? Sure I'm not feeling infected, but...why? Sooner or later, I noticed some people looking at me with shocked expressions, realizing my identity upon seeing those pictures on the news. I began backing away in fear from them before running away in fear before they had the chance to report about this organization chasing after me! I-I...why?! Please! I don't wanna die!



....
....
.......
...........H-huh? I slowly began to open my eyes before looking around to find myself in a bed and saw Ren and the others having worried yet relieved looks on their faces. 

“Jamie, thank goodness you’re alright.” Rarity sighed in relief. “We were wondering if you were ever gonna wake up.”

“Yeah, you sure gave us a scare.” Rantaro chuckled.

“Rantaro! This isn’t funny!” Kaede scolded.

“She’s right! What if something happened to Jamie?!” Carrie exclaimed.

“Well sooorry.” Rantaro waved it off. 

“Ugh…” Ren sighed in exasperation before turning to me with a soft smile and asked “So how are you feeling Jamie?”

“I-I think I’m feeling alright…” I nodded before looking around the place. “W-where am I?”

“You’re in the Ponyville hospital. You’ve been knocked out for almost a week.” Ren explained.

“Luckily, it was only your right arm that gotten hurt, so the doctor say that once you’re awake, you can just go home and rest your arm.” Mason explained. “It should take about a week for your arm to completely heal.”

“W-what?” I asked before getting back up before wincing in pain. I looked over and gasped upon seeing my right arm being in a cast. “W-what?….”

“Oh right, you accidentally tripped over and twisted your arm.” Spike explained. “It’s no big deal.”

“Yeah, at least you’re alright.” Kaede sighed. “You had us scared there for a second there.” Kaede pointed out. 

“N-no way!” I exclaimed as my expression turned pale upon seeing it. “D-Do you guys know what this means?!"

"Uhh...you've been asleep for almost a week is shocking?" Jack questioned before scoffing "What's so wrong about that? I like sleeping on my bed almost every day."

"N-no! This is what my future self had! H-he had an arm cast! And..." My expression turned pale upon seeing this as I began to piece it together. "Oh no....we didn't change the future..."

"What?!" Jack exclaimed.

"Are you saying that we still haven't change the future?!" Kodi gaped at that. "How?! Didn't we disaster-proof all of Ponyville?"

"We did, so what went wrong?" Kaede asked.

"No no no! We can't let this happen! What would Twilight s-say?!" I exclaimed before realizing something. "W-wait a minute, w-where's Twilight?"

"Well...." Ren rubbed his head bashfully with a worried look. "I don't know how to explain it...but she's been getting too strongly addictive with it."

"Yeah, she began to increasingly get over dramatic lately because of the many signs she's been getting." Mason nodded.

"Yeah, like the paper cut underneath her eye and her mane badly ruined." Carrie pointed out while I jaw-dropped in shock upon hearing that. 

"No no no! It's becoming worse and worse as it goes!" I exclaimed, holding my left hand onto my head with a panic look on my face. Now Twilight and I have one of the signs! What are we gonna do?!

"Wait...did you say that your future self has one of those injuries?" Rantaro questioned, glancing over me while he leaned against the wall.

"Y-yes." I nodded with a worried look. "My future self had an injured arm and an eye patch while Future Twilight had an eye patch as well, including a scorched spandex black suit, frazzled mane, and a paper cut under her right eye."

Rantaro glanced away from me as he was in deep thought of that. I-I wonder what he's thinking about.

"Well don't worry Jamie! We'll still stop this disaster!" Carrie smiled happily before turning to her brother and asked "Right big brother?"

"Indeed." Mason nodded with a smile. "Though I can't help but wonder about these signs...what could they lead?"

"Don't know, all I know is that all this helping out around town was all for frigging nothing." Jack scoffed. 

"Hey! We were just helping Twilight out!" Kaede retorted.

"Kaede's right, we just need to make sure the town and possibly all of Equestria didn't get dangerously destroyed by this disaster she and Jamie spoke about." Ren added, agreeing with Kaede. "I mean, I trust them with all my life for that."

I blushed on that comment, seeing that Ren has complete faith on a purple unicorn and a guy like me. Though, I can't help but wonder about his future self that appeared right after him. It's just seems...weird that he looked totally normal than our future selves now that I think about it.

"Tch! Whatever!" Jack scoffed.

"Jeez, I sometimes really don't like that attitude of yours." Kodi stated with a blank look.

"We all don't." Mason sighed, upsetting Jack a bit on that comment.

"U-um..." I spoke up, gaining everyone's attention. "Everyone, I'm s-sorry if I'm d-disturbing you all or something, but I-I was wondering on what was happening while I was knocked out."

"Well...it wasn't that special really, but Twilight kinda took it to the extreme." Ren shrugged as he began to explain the events while I was knocked out.



Flashback

"This is bad! This is bad!" Twilight kept chanting as she was pacing around the library with an extremely look on her face. "Not only did Jamie get knocked out, but came back with a broken arm in the process!"

"Twilight, calm down." Spike said, sitting down on the couch as he watches Twilight panicking. "Jamie is going to be alright. The doctors said that he should be back to normal in no time."

"No Spike! It's all my fault! If I didn't bring him with me, I-I would've prevented this!" Twilight cried out. "This is bad..."

"Well things can't get any worse, right?" Spike chuckled before feeling his stomach gurgling a bit before he spat out a scroll, accidentally hitting Twilight straight in the eye.

"Yowch!" Twilight screeched, rubbing her aching eye before widening her eyes a bit. "Oh no!"

She rushed over to a nearby mirror with a panic look on her face before gasping and becoming more and more concern.

"What's the big deal, it's just a 'lost dog' flyer." Spike assured, picking up the scroll. "I guess the princess hasn't heard we found Cerberus yet.

"It's not that, it's this!" She pointed towards the small cut on her left cheek.

"...A paper cut...?" Spike questioned with a doubtful look on his face. "Come on, Twilight, you really need to toughen up. Just clean it out and you'll be fine."

"The cut's in the exact same spot as the scar on future Twilight's cheek!" Twilight exclaimed as she continued to look at herself in the mirror. "We haven't changed the future at all! The disaster is still coming!"

Sooner or later, Ren and Kodiak entered the library as they wanted to check up on her.

"Hey Twilight, I just thought I could visit you and-" Ren cut himself off before seeing Twilight pacing around the library in a giant circular hole that she created. "Uhh...okay? What's happening here?"

"Ren!" Twilight beamed in excitement before sighing "Thank goodness you're here! Wait, what are you doing here?"

"I just came to tell you that Jamie should wake up by several days, so no need to worry." Ren chuckled, rubbing his head bashfully.

"Why are you looking so worried?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Why?! Because of this!" She pointed to her left cheek as they looked over to the small paper cut she had. 

"A paper cut?" Ren asked. 

"So what? You can always wash it over or put a band aid on it." Kodi suggested, not bothered or getting what Twilight meant.

"No! It's one of the signs that future me had! If the disaster wasn't caused by Cerberus getting loose, then what could it possibly be?" 

Spike let out a chuckle before saying "I dunno, but maybe you ought to give the pacing a rest. You've worn a groove into the floor!"

"Yeah, pretty surprising really." Ren added, surprised to see that happen. "Jesus christ, how on Equestria did you do that?"

"I don't have time for another one of your lectures, you guys! This is serious!" Twilight scolded.

"Our lectures?" Spike, Ren, and Kodi asked in unison with incredulous looks.

"I did everything I could think of to change the future. But it didn't work." Twilight slumped down with a disappointed and worried look before smiling and said "So maybe it's not what I do...Maybe it's what I don't do!"

"Say what?" Ren asked as she teleported out of the room before reappearing with a serious and solemn look on her face while she stood still.

"Uhhh...." The gang gave her blank looks of confusion as she looks at them with a smile and said "If I stand right here and don't move a muscle until next Tuesday, I can't possibly do whatever it is that future Twilight and Jamie wanted to warn me not to do!"

"Okay, that's just ridiculous!" Ren exclaimed.

"Yeah! How are you gonna eat, sleep, or drink?!" Kodi added, but Twilight was busy staying focused, causing the two to sigh in exasperation while Spike walked over with a mischievous grin on his face.

"Oh really? So...no matter what happens, you're not gonna move a muscle, huh?" Spike smirked. "Then maybe you won't mind if I...eat an entire tub of ice cream!"

Twilight's eyes twitched a bit as Spike headed over to the kitchen and five minutes later, he came back with a tub of ice cream as he began eating it.

"Ooh, that looks so good." Kodi licked his lips before walking over and begged Spike to give him some, which Spike happily applied before giving him a lick. "Thanks!"

"No problem!" Spike chuckled.

"Spike, Kodiak, stop!" Twilight demanded through gritted teeth. "Think of the stomach ache!"

"Stomach ache, huh?" Spike chuckled. "That's future Spike's problem."

Ren sweat-dropped from that comment before saying "Umm...you do realize that'll happen if next Tuesday occurs?"

"Meh." Spike shrugged as he and Kodiak continued to eat some ice cream. Ren let out a sigh before walking and said "Oh well, if you can't beat them, join them."

"Oh no you don't Ren!" Twilight exclaimed, wanting to whack him upside the head but couldn't. "Ren! Don't!"

"I'm sorry Twilight, I just can't help it." Ren rubbed his head with a light chuckle before asking "So Spike, care to share some more ice cream?" 

"You betcha Ren!" Spike nodded before giving him another spoon as the three began eating the delicious tub of ice cream, much to Twilight's irritation. Soon, they heard the door opened as Rainbow Dash, Mason, Carrie and Jack entered.

"Yo! You there Twi?" Jack called.

"We just came back to tell you that another Pegasus just got back from Baltimare with an all-colear and-" Rainbow stopped herself as the others noticed Ren, Spike, and Kodi eating ice cream while Twilight remained still like a statue.

"What's...going on?" Mason asked with a serious look before seeing the three eating ice cream. "And why isn't Twilight stopping you three eating ice cream?"

"Yeah! Aren't you gonna stop him?" Rainbow laughed at Twilight while Ren, Spike, and Kodi laughed alongside her.

"She can't! She thinks that not doing anything for the whole week is gonna prevent an disaster." Ren chuckled.

"Yeah! She like literally took it too serious!" Kodi added before licking into the ice cream tub.

"AH HA HA HA HA HA HA!" Jack and Rainbow Dash laughed while the other three felt concerned about that.

"Umm...I'm not so sure if that's a good idea." Kaede pointed out. "Twilight, this doesn't sound like a good idea."

"I-I have to try!" Twilight stated, still standing like a statue.

"Oh, this is too rich." Jack snorted. "Hey Twilight! There's a damn rat right behind you!"

Twilight gasped a little before looking back in shock, causing more laughter from them, much to her irritation.

"Wait, wait, wait, let me try!" Spike suggested as he grabbed a feather from the desktop and began tickling her with it, causing Twilight to hold her breath.

"Uh...is that a good idea?" Carrie asked curiously. "She looks like she's about to burst."

"That's cause she's about to, and it's gonna be hilarious!" Spike smirked as he continued to tickle her as Twilight continued to hold her breath and tried not to force out some laughter.

"Hey! Let me help!" Kodi offered before using his tail to tickle Twilight's belly, causing her to turn her face more purple than usual.

"Oh boy, this is the part where we back away." Ren said, getting up as he held the ice cream tub in his arms as everyone backed away as Twilight couldn't take it anymore as her horn glowed as she picked them up with her magic and threw them across the room, causing Spike to accidentally belched out some green fire, hitting Twilight with it.

"YOOOW!" Twilight shrieked before shaking her head to dowse out the fire before noticing everypony's shocked faces. "What?"

"Oh no..." Rainbow muttered.

"Damn..." Jack blinked in shock.

"What happened?" Twilight asked, her voice rising.

"Oh my gosh Twilight! I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean too! It was a total accident!" Spike exclaimed.

"Show me." With a defeated sigh, Kaede took out a small mirror out of her pockets and showed it to her and one look at the mirror shows that she had a terrible bad hair, much to her shock. "Oh no! This is the same mane cut as future Twilight!"

"You know...it really doesn't look too bad...." Rainbow chuckled nervously.

"Yeah, you could always go to Rarity and ask her to help fix your hair." Kaede suggested.

"Yeah! Whenever I have a bad hair day, my big brother and Elena always helps me out to fix my hair." Carrie smiled nervously.

"It's true. Her hair really disorientates a lot." Mason nodded, remembering a few bad hair incidents his little sister had.

"I don't care how it looks! It's just another sign that the future hasn't changed! Not doing anything didn't work either!" Twilight complained before sighing "Oh, I wish there was a way to know what was going to happen so I could stop it!"

Everyone looked at each other in worried until Spike widened his eyes, coming up with an idea.

"If you want to see the future? I might know somepony who can help!" Spike smirked.

"You do? Who?" Kaede asked in confusion.

"Don't worry, it's for the best." Spike winked before walking out with Twilight before she said "Well I guess I got no choice. I'll see you guys later..."

"Umm...see ya Twilight." Ren waved goodbye as both Spike and Twilight left the library while everyone looked at each other in worried. Ren soon took another bite of some ice cream while giving some to Kodiak before noticing the others looking at him with deadpanned looks.

"What? Want some?" Ren offered, which Carrie raised one hand, but the others sighed in exasperation. "Seriously what?"
Flashback Ended




"I-I see..." And this mystery keeps adding more up. These accidents keep giving us signs of the 'disaster' that's coming next Tuesday, so what could it mean? Unless....hmm....

"Ah, so it seems like you're finally understanding, huh?" Rantaro smirked, causing me and the others to look at him in confusion. 

"Rantaro, do you know something about the disaster?" Kaede asked curiously. "Because we're running out of ideas right now and I don't know how long till Twilight can keep this up."

"Yeah! She's gone to the brink of isolating herself from the others!" Kodi added. "We gotta do something and fast!"

"We know Kodiak, but how?" Ren wondered.

"I could tell you guys..." Rantaro formed a smirk, which the others noticed.

"Alright, what's the frigging catch?" Jack demanded.

"Well I can tell you guys what it all means...for a million bits." 

....Once again, his offers always remain baffle to us all.  

"Ugh, how about something that doesn't involve paying stuff like that?" Kaede asked.

"Yeah, and we don't even have that much bits." Carrie pointed out.

"Yeah, so just hold your horses please." Ren stated before realizing what he said "Heh heh...just ignore that last one."

"Ugh...you're all just wasting my time." Rantaro scoffed before walking out of the hospital room. "Well at least maybe that your friend has already begun to figure it out."

With that, he took his leave while the others looked at each other in confusion on what he meant by that.

"I wonder what he figured out about the future?" Carrie wondered.

"Yeah..." Ren wondered before turning to me and asked "What do you think Jamie?"

"I-I-I don't know...I-I'm just confused Ren." I sighed, unable to come up with an answer. I began thinking it over and began slowly putting the pieces of the puzzle. Future me having less damage, future Twilight having tons of injuries, and future Ren looking fine but claimed to have come from the same timeline as us....so.... "Ugh..."

"Something wrong?" Mason asked, detecting my discomfort.

"I-it's just that! I-I don't know! I just want to stop t-this disaster as much as Twilight!" I exclaimed in shock. "I-I just don't know what to do anymore!"

"Jamie, calm down!" Ren yelled, causing me to panic again.

"I-I can't Ren! I'm just w-worried on what's about to happen!" I exclaimed. "I-I'm just scared okay?! I-I just don't know how to deal with the future!"

"Huh? What are you saying?" Kaede asked.

"I-I'm just scared...I just d-don't know what to do..." I sighed, admitting my reasons. "The truth is, I-I just want to help Twilight with this, but I soon began putting the pieces and possibly found out what our future selves tried to tell us...but I'm not sure if it's right."

"So what? Just tell her on what you think." Jack shrugged, but I shook my head and replied "I-I can't...it's just ridiculous. You guys said so yourselves that she's too self-absorbed on trying to solve this mystery on our future selves' warning. I-I just don't know anymore..."

"Jamie..." I felt my shoulder being touched as Ren gave me a soft and encouraging smile. "Don't worry dude, I know you'll do well. You're a smart dude, and I know you'll make the right decision. I mean, I get where you're going. I mean, it's a hard time for me to make the right decisions too, but we gotta keep moving and not give up. If you have your friends and family by your side, they'll help and support you to the end."

"B-but...I-I never had anyone by my side..." I sighed sadly.

"But what about your 23 sisters?" Kaede asked. 

Oh...right. 

"W-well...they're the only exception, but still..."

"Then you can't give up." Ren stated. "Like I said before, we'll always be by your side to the very end James. We'll always stay by your side no matter what. Besides, the future might be scary, even I'm not ready for it."

"Really?" I asked incredulous.

"Yeah, I don't know what I wanna do in the future, but I know it'll be an awesome dream of mine to make it into reality. So if you keep backing down from it, then you won't be able to complete it. We'll all be ready for when it's time to confront the future, so we have plenty of time."

Ren...you always encouraged me with your words, so I don't know how to describe it. I-I guess...maybe I could give it a try.

"W-well..." I rubbed my chin in thought before turning to them with a soft smile. "T-thank you Ren..."

"Don't mention it. Just thought you needed it." Ren chuckled.

"But even so Ren, I'm afraid that he and Twilight will be too late to stop the disaster in time." Mason said, much to our confusion.

"Why do you ask?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Have you already forgotten? Today's Monday." What?! 

"What?! N-no way!" I exclaimed in shock. "I-I gotta go and tell Twilight!"

"But wait, what about you being here in the hospital?!" Kaede questioned.

"D-Don't worry. I'm fine now. My arm will heal someday soon. Right now, we need to go and warn Twilight before it's too late!" I replied while the others nodded in agreement.

"Don't worry, I'll go over to the nurse and tell her that Jamie is now feeling better and can walk!" Ren offered before running out of the room and headed over to get the nurse while we remained here in my hospital room.

"Why the hell do I have the feeling that this is totally gonna be a bad idea." Jack sighed.

"Because it's probably will..." Mason sighed.

"Hey, come on! Have some faith in once. Who knows what might happen?" Kodi chuckled nervously while Carrie thought it over.

"But...do you think Twilight will listen to us? She won't accept anything else until the disaster doesn't happen." Carrie pointed out.

"Well I sure hope so. I don't know how long it's gonna take for her to make her stop acting so crazy and bend-up about it." Kaede sighed.

She has a point. Twilight is quite aggravated on wanting to revert our fates from the future, but I think I got it now on what happened...I hope so....



Later
Ha...ha...ha...man, I never ran this much in my entire life before! We soon arrived to the Golden Oaks Library as I tried to open the door until I hit in the face with it.

"AH!" I exclaimed while the others were shocked by what happened to me as I heard a gasp before holding my right eye and looked over to see Twilight, and they weren't kidding about her mane being messed up and having a paper cut, but what caught me off-guard a bit was seeing the eye patch around her eye. 

"Jamie! You're awake!" Twilight sighed in relief. "I'm so glad that you're alright! You had me worried there!"

"S-so I figured..." I chuckled nervously.

"Tee-hee, what's up with the eye patch?" Carrie giggled, seeing the eye patch attached to Twilight's right eye.

"Pinkie gave it to me after she made me hit my eye against the telescope." Ooh, that must've hurt, huh?

"Yep!" Pinkie appeared in front of us, causing some of us to let out a yelp as she continued "I have eye patches stashed all over Ponyville, in case of eye patch emergency!"

"Who in their right mind would use eye patches for emergencies other than that?" Mason questioned.

"Don't know, but it makes them look like a pirate!" Pinkie laughed before noticing something about me. "Oh! Guess that means you need one too Jamie!"

"W-what?" I asked in confusion while the others turned to me and gasped a little in shock.

"Damn, that's one serious black eye." Jack commented while I widened my eyes in shock as Kaede noticed that I wanted to see how bad it was as she took out her small mirror for me to see as I gaze upon my face, seeing my right eye all swollen from when I was hit by the door.

"Oh no...and I just got o-out of the hospital..." I sighed sadly. So it would seem that this marks one of the signs from the 'disaster'.

"Don't worry Jamie! Leave it to your auntie Pinkie Pie!" Pinkie appeared before me before putting an eye patch around my right eye while I smiled softly at her.

"T-thank you..." I thanked with a soft grin. It was...sorta nice of her to do that for me...

"No! Jamie has one of the signs! The disaster is gonna happen!" We turned around to see Twilight started to grow extremely worried and concern about this before she exclaimed "Luckily, we can hurry over to Canterlot and stop time!" Wait what? What does she mean 'stop time'?

"Stop...time?" Kaede asked in slight surprise and confusion.

"Yeah..." Spike came out of the house, still eating some of ice cream tub in his arm before taking a large bite of one. "Twilight's planning on going over to the Canterlot Archives and using a spell from the  Starswirl The Bearded Wing to stop time in order to prevent the disaster from happening."

"What?!" I exclaimed. "T-Twilight! Y-you need to think about this! T-this has gone too f-far. M-maybe there's more to the forewarning from what our future selves stated."

"Can't talk right now Jamie! I have to go!" Twilight said.

"But you can't! What if we're wrong?" I asked in confusion.

"Then how do you explain our future selves looking terrible?" Twilight asked.

"But what about F-Future Ren looking f-fine?" I questioned, which made Twilight realize about that.

"Oh right...I almost forgot about that. Look, I just don't know." Twilight shook her head in frustration. "Right now, I think it's best to head over and stop time until I can figure out what's going on!"

"B-but-" Suddenly, Ren grabbed me by the mouth as he began dragging me away from the others before letting me go once they were away from them for a good distance. "R-Ren! What are you doing?"

"Sorry Jamie, but I can't let you tell them on what you found out." Ren explained, much to my surprise.

"W-what? Why?" I asked in confusion.

"Because...well....let's say I just can't. Besides, wouldn't this count as a good lesson for Twilight? You know, about being ready for the nearby future and junk?" I blinked in surprise of that before humming in thought.

"W-well...you raise a good point, but what if she freezes all of time? I-I mean, is that even possible to do that?! I'm just so confused!" Ren immediately covered my mouth the moment I yelled before whispering "Listen James, you need to calm down and relax. Stop getting agitated on the things you don't get."

"I-I don't get agitated that much..." I muttered, loud enough for Ren to hear.

"Well even so, you need to relax. Let Twilight figure this out and even if she freezes all of time, she'll learn about the disaster your future selves mentioned and happily brings everything back to normal and finally learns her lesson." 

Huh...I never really imagine Ren to come up with that much. Hmm, I guess for an average kid like himself can come up with intellect stuff, huh? I wonder...if he has some sort of hidden intelligence inside his head? I guess...I-I guess I must've underestimated him a bit...

"...Okay...I'll trust you on that Ren." I said, glancing at him while Ren nodded in agreement before we walked back towards the group with weak grins on our faces. "U-Umm...Twilight? C-Can we come too? Just want you to be safe."

"Well..." Twilight thought for a while before smiling on that offer. "Well okay, the more the merrier, right?"

"Yeah, you said it." Ren rubbed his head bashfully with a nervous chuckle while the others looked at us in shock.

"Ren, Jamie, are you two crazy?!" Kaede exclaimed. 

"Yeah! You're like literally gonna stop time, you know!" Kodi added. 

"Shh!" Ren shushed them before whispering "Don't worry, we'll make sure that she doesn't do that. Trust us."

"Are you sure?" Jack asked.

"Course we're sure." Ren winked with a toothy grin. "Just let me and Jamie go with her, Pinkie, and Spike to find out about these archives back at Canterlot and we'll try to see if we can stop her or not."

"Well...alright." Kaede sighed.

"Are you sure you two can handle this on your own?" Mason questioned. "Do you not need any require help?"

"W-we can do this...I-I hope so..." I muttered, feeling a bit worried about this. I-I just hope for my sake that Twilight realizes that this is wrong and hopefully listens to us for our reasons, but she's too stubborn and too focus on wanting to stop whatever disaster our future selves warned us about. 

"Well then, I'm coming too." Kodi offered as he stepped up with a determined look. "Besides, you never leave a pal behind."

"Heh heh, you got that right." Ren chuckled before scratching him underneath the chin before turning to the others. "Don't worry, I think we should be back by tomorrow morning or so, just good luck."

"Okay, good luck you guys." Kaede smiled softly, along with the others while Jack crossed his arms in a huff, not eager to say goodbye that easy.

Oh well...it would seem that we got ourselves a new objective...we're going to sneak into the Canterlot Archives to find ourselves a time-freezing spell that'll make time all frozen...if that was possible, that is....

I just hope that Twilight tries to at least tries to calm down from the situation...



Later
Ren's P.O.V.
Well I guess I'll admit one thing, this is actually gonna be pretty cool sneaking around the place, eh? We were going out in a little recon mission wearing black spandex spy-like suits because we were going in and steal valuable info about those time-stopping spells. Now that I know this is ridiculous, but like my future self said, I have to let this happen because this is the only way that'll make Twilight see how wrong she was and learn a valuable life lesson here.

Well besides that, I look cool. It makes me feel like I'm Sly Cooper, or Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible. You know, that awesome franchise with all the cool spy stuff, assassins, enemy organizations. Oh, after this, we should go watch some Mission: Impossible Fallout! That's the best movie in the franchise! 

Sooner or later, we finally arrived to Canterlot, Twilight began galloping out of the area, Pinkie bouncing happily behind with Spike following as well, eating an ice cream cone with Kodiak too. Well I would say that Spike should stop, but I would say let him have it. Besides, eating ice cream always helps you relax whenever you feel tense, right?

Soon, we arrived to the streets of Canterlot while Twilight turned to us with a serious look on her face and said "Okay, the Canterlot archives are right over there! Let's move!"

"O-okay!" Jamie nodded with a nervous look on his face as Twilight began hiding in the shadows while Pinkie and Spike just walked around with nonchalant expressions as me, Jamie, and Kodiak sweat-dropped on seeing Twilight like that.

"B-but umm..." Jamie called nervously. "T-Twilight...I-I don't think we need to sneak around. I-It's not illegal to walk around Canterlot."

"Especially if it's your old home." Kodi added.

"Exactly, so don't take this serious." Spike agreed, taking another chomp of his ice cream. You know, I could go with some ice cream right about now.

"Guard!" Unfortunately, Twilight didn't listen to any of us and struck a pose near a statue. We all gave her sweat-drops on this as she turned to us with an irritated expression and said "C'mon you guys!"

Oh well, at least this might be fun to do at least. We did as she asked as we made different poses with me giving out a Sonic The Hedgehog Thumbs-up pose while Jamie did the Thinker Pose, for Pinkie, she did a pose that had a silly look on her face, and Spike, he just had that bored expression on his face. A Royal Guard came by and past by us, smiling, like he really wasn't paying attention at all. Guess he loves his night shift job or something. 

"Phew...that was close." Twilight sighed in relief.

"I still don't know why we have to wear these things." Spike stretched part of the suit he was wearing with a confused and irritated expression.

"Well lucky for me that I don't have to wear it." Kodi muttered, which I nodded in agreement. I mean, he IS a dog for crying out loud.

"Aren't we wearing them for fun?" Pinkie questioned.

"No, there's nothing fun about this!" Twilight shushed us. 

"Umm...T-Twilight, maybe you need to calm down." Jamie asked politely. "I-I mean, d-doesn't anypony come around at night t-time?"

"Not now Jamie, we need to focus on the task!" Twilight stated. "The only way to prevent this disaster is to stop time! Time spells are kept in the Star Swirl the Bearded wing, the most secure section of the archives. That's why we're sneaking around!"

"And how do you know this?" I asked curiously.

"Because future me and Jamie mentioned about it when we were asking them some questions." Ahh, I see. So that explains why they couldn't been able to tell you guys what was going to happen.

"W-which might've been a terrible thing to do..." Jamie sighed sadly. "I-If we just let them finish...then m-maybe we could've f-figured out w-what was the d-disaster..."

"Don't worry, I understand how you both feel." I said as we continued our way through the Canterlot Archives as I placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "If I saw my future self, I would've totally be shock and kept bombarding him with questions all day."

Jamie gave me a soft grin, seeing how I understand about that as we tried to look for the Archives Twilight spoke about. 

"Hey guys, where's Pinkie Pie?" Kodi asked as he noticed that Pinkie wasn't around.

"What the heck? Wasn't she here with us?" I asked, blinking in surprise as we looked around the area. 

"M-maybe she went on ahead of us?" Jamie suggested.

"I...guess." Still though, I'm starting to get worried for her. If I know Pinkie Pie very well, she would do something quite crazy that will blow our minds unexpectedly. Besides that, she loves randomly popping out of nowhere like a certain robotic bear character I've once seen a while back in a certain anime. 

"Come on guys! Let's go!" Twilight called us, which made us sigh as we continued our way as Twilight hid behind the bushes that had too many twigs in there.

"U-Umm...Twilight? M-maybe you should c-calm down and maybe-" Jamie offered until he was grabbed by her and pushed into the thorny bush. 

"Not now Jamie! We need to stop ourselves before it's too late!" Twilight shushed.

"O-Okay..." Jamie sighed sadly as the two tried to get out of the bush, but gotten a part of their suit ripped off after getting caught in some branches coming out of the bush they were hiding. Me, Kodi, and Spike gave each other confused looks before shrugging it off and continued our way till we finally saw the front entrance to the Canterlot Archives.

"There it is, let's go." I said as I tried to enter the place until I was lifted up from the air by Twilight as she held me against with her magic.

"What are you doing Ren?! We can't enter the place from the front, we'll get caught for sure!" Twilight exclaimed before pointing over to see a couple of guards guarding the front entrance. 

Well they won't mind if we just ask them politely, but this is Twilight we're talking about, so...yeah... 

"So what do you think we should do then?" I asked curiously before seeing the small smirk on Twilight's face. Uhh...what's she planning?



Later
Well...this isn't what I expected, but alright. Twilight made us climb up from the window just around the back as I helped Kodiak and Spike climbed out of there and Jamie was trying his best to climb out of it.

"Come on Jamie! You can do it!" I said, encouraging him a bit.

"I-I know...I-I just need to calculate my jump for good and-" Before he could finish, Jamie accidentally slid off the ledge of the window and let out a yelp of surprise before falling on his face.

"Are you alright?" Kodi asked while Spike and I helped him out.

"Y-yeah..." Jamie said as we managed to get him back on his own two feet while he winced at his broken right arm. Even thought it was still in a cast, he would still hurt his arm if he kept moving around.

"Don't worry Jamie, you'll be fine." Twilight assured before she started crawling around the floor while we continued to walk around like NORMAL people and ponies, as well as dog and dragon.

"Ugh, let's get this over with." Spike sighed irritably as we continued to find our way till I noticed Jamie standing still as he was looking at something.

"Something wrong James?" I asked, walking towards him.

"O-oh! I-it was just that...isn't that the archives over there?" He pointed over as I turned around and saw a door that lead to the archives. 

"Huh...how did we miss that?" I asked.

"I...don't know." He shrugged until we heard a sound. It sounded like...it was coming from above. We both slowly looked up and became shocked to see who was coming down.

"Pinkie?!" We both exclaimed in shock as we saw Pinkie coming down from the ceiling with some sort of gear strapped around her.

"Hey you guys! Look at what I brought!" Pinkie chuckled before coming down the ground before taking the thing off of her. "Thought it would be useful to bring."

"...Pinkie, are you sure you're not a secret spy agent?" I joked while I remained shocked by what we just witness. Holy crap, that was just like from when Tom Cruise tried to come down from the ceiling while trying to steal info from the first movie.

"Nah, that's silly Rennie." Pinkie chuckled. "I mean, I can't be that one guy who would neutralize the enemy forces because that would be weird."

"Ah...are you talking about Metal Gear?" I asked with an excited yet surprised look on my face.

"Yes, Metal Gear!" Pinkie nodded.

"Metal Gear?" Jamie asked in confusion.

"Metal Gear." I answered.

"Yep, Metal Gear." Pinkie smiled.

"What?! Ren? Jamie? Pinkie?!" Uh oh, looks like Twilight came back, along with Spike and Kodiak. "H-how did you get here Pinkie?"

"And why are you guys keep saying 'Metal Gear'?" Spike asked with a raised brow before taking another bite of his ice cream.

"Oh, I just came down from the ceiling." Pinkie smirked while Twilight blinked in confusion before sighing and said "Never mind...but how did you guys get here so quickly?"

"O-oh...umm...well..." Jamie hesitate before slowly pointing over to the doors as Twilight widened her eyes in shock upon seeing them.

"What? How did I even miss that?!" Twilight exclaimed.

"I have no clue." I shrugged before we walked over and looked through the metal bars that's keeping this place locked tight. "But we don't have a way in here."

"Well i-it would make sense..." Jamie muttered loudly as we glanced over to him as he continued "S-Starswirl The Bearded was a legendary wizard who create many spells, so even when he pass away thousands of years ago, his legacy remains on..."

"Ah, that would make sense." Kodi nodded in agreement. "...I think."

"Not again..." Jamie whined, realizing that he said it all aloud.

"Anyway, besides all that..." Twilight looks through the metal bars to get a closer look of the archives. "Look at all those priceless magic scrolls. There are more than I ever imagined."

"Indeed." Jamie agreed, walking over with a soft smile before beaming in excitement. "Just think about everything I could learn from the great wizard you talked about Twilight!"

"Yeah..." Kodi cleared his throat, gaining all of our attention. "About that..."

"What's wrong Kodi?" I asked in concern.

"There's a guard coming our way!" Kodi pointed his paw over to the left side of the hall as we saw a shadow of a guard proceeding towards us, much to Twilight's shock.

"Oh no! What do we do, what do we do?!" She dug her head in her hooves and tremble in fear as we stood there with the guard walking towards us. 

He stopped in front of Twilight, causing her to look up while the guard gave her a smile and said "Hey Twilight, haven't seen you in a while. Let me open that for ya."

The guard's horn glowed as his magic managed to open the door for us, allowing us to walk inside.

"Oh..." Twilight chuckled nervously at the guard, blushing a bit. "T-thanks!"

"...Well that was generous of that guy to allow us in." I commented, smiling a bit.

"Y-yeah..." Jamie nodded before turning to Twilight and asked "Y-you must've been quite famous around here in the archives, h-huh?"

"Yeah..." Twilight nodded. "I do love coming here everyday and read all these books and scrolls around the archives."

"Wow, that's an impressive feat." Jamie smiled happily at that, which made Twilight blush at that.

"I-it's nothing..." Twilight rubbed her cheek in embarrassment before clearing her throat, getting back into her serious look. "B-but anyway! Let's keep going!"

"Right!" We all nodded before entering the Starswirl The Bearded Wing and proceed to find the scroll Twilight's looking for.

"Oh no!" Huh? We looked over to see Twilight gazing herself at a mirror, seeing what she looks like. "Look! I look just like future Twilight...the last sign has come true!"

"Yeah...i-it really does..." Jamie nodded in agreement, seeing himself looking terrible as well.

"And that's bad, right?" Kodi questioned.

"Come on!" Twilight exclaimed as she looked through everything in order to find it while the rest of us did the same, except for Spike and Kodiak as they shared the ice cream with each other.

"O-oh, where is it?" Jamie asked in worried. "We can't find it!"

"Are we even sure there's a time-stopping spell, Twilight?" I asked curiously, which made Twilight upset again.

"I know there it is! But I. Don't. Know!" Twilight exclaimed dramatically before slamming her head into a box filled with scrolls.

"Well...maybe we should stop?" I asked, which made Twilight popped her head out of the box of scrolls and gave me a serious yet irritated look.

"Stop? Stop?! We can't stop this Ren! The fate of Equestria is in our hooves!" Twilight exclaimed angrily.

"T-Twilight! Please!" Jamie begged, gaining her attention. "L-look, I wanna stop this as much as you do...but you need to stop!"

"B-but-"

"No....please." Jamie pleaded. "I-I think I figured out what's this disaster is."

"Y-you have?" Twilight gasped in shock before asking "Why didn't you tell me?!"

"W-well...I-I..." He looked over to me, wondering if it was alright to tell her the truth. I nodded, seeing now that it was the only way in order to calm Twilight down. "You see..."

"Hey guys look!" Kodi pointed over to a nearby window, seeing the sun rising back up.

"Well Twilight, looks like it's over." I stated. "It's officially Tuesday morning." 

"Nnngh, no!" She immediately over to the window with a scared look. "Tuesday morning, the disaster! Incoming!" She pushed Spike away and covered herself with her hooves while we stood there in awkward silence, seeing nothing happening.

No nuclear explosion, no big blast, no meteor crashing into the planet, just...nothing. It was...just like any normal Tuesday morning.

"I-I guess I was right..." Jamie spoke up, placing his hand on his chin in thought. So it would seem...that the disaster was nothing, huh? Well...that's a bummer.

"Good morning Twilight, Ren, Jamie, Kodiak." Whoa! Holy cow! Did anyone see Princess Celestia just appeared out of nowhere like that!? "Love the new hairstyle, Twilight. Lovely morning today, isn't it?"

I couldn't help but grinned at that before saying "Sure is, Celeste. Lovely and peaceful. Good morning by the way."

"Good morning to you too Ren." Princess Celestia smiled before taking her leave. Seriously though, didn't anybody noticed her walking by?

"I don't get it..." Twilight got back up with a confused look on her face. "Why isn't anypony surprised to see me sneaking around in here?! Is it possible there never was a disaster? That I've just been making myself frantic over nothing?!"

I wouldn't say 'frantic'.

"Y-yes Twilight." Jamie answered with a worried look. "T-that's what I-I was trying to tell you, but..."

"But you kept cutting him off because you went too crazy on wanting to stop this 'disaster' Twilight." I finished Jamie's sentence while Twilight jaw-dropped on that before turning to Jamie with a nervous look and asked "I-is that true, Jamie?"

"Yes, w-we both been worried over nothing. It was because we were so worried and didn't let the future handle itself. I-I was scared to say anything..." Jamie explained. "But someone told me that as long as you have your friends and family by your side, then they'll help create the future together."

Twilight blinked in surprise before smiling over at him. "You know what? I think that's a great lesson we've leaned today."

"So wait, I'm confused." Kodi raised a brow. "If future Twilight and future Jamie wasn't gonna warn you guys about some disaster, then what were they trying to tell you?"

Jamie and Twilight looked at each other and let out giggles. 

"I don't know, but I do know one thing."

"We look completely ridiculous." Jamie smiled a bit. "Say T-Twilight, for now on, w-we're gonna solve problems as they come, and stop worrying about every little thing."

"That I agree, Jamie." Twilight smiled happily at that idea.

"Which means no more late night pacing?" Spike grinned at that.

"No more late night pacing." Twilight nodded, "If only we learned this lesson a week ago, we wouldn't have had to go through all this."

"Yeah..." Jamie nodded before realizing something. "...Actually, there was something else I wanted to tell you."

"Yes Jamie?" Twilight turned to him with a curious look on her face.

"I think the message our future selves wanted to tell us...was to not worried about the future." Jamie smiled before chuckling "I-I guess we shouldn't have bombarding them with questions, eh?"

Twilight chuckled at that before replying "Yeah, guess so. But how did you figure that out?"

"It isn't that obvious upon seeing ourselves look exactly like our future selves." Jamie pointed out, which made Twilight look at herself with a slight blush.

"...Yeah, I suppose you're right." Twilight sighed. "And here I was, worried for nothing at all..."

"Yeah, but at least everything's back to normal." I sighed in relief. Speaking of which...now that I've done what future me asked from this note. What am I gonna do with it?

"Hey guys! Look at what I found!" We turned to see Pinkie popping out from the shelf with a scroll in her hooves. 

"What is that?" I asked curiously.

"Well it doesn't stop time...!" Pinkie explained. "But it lets you go back in time! It seays you can go back once, and it only lasts for a few moments. Does that help?"

"I...guess" Well that's a bummer. But I guess it's right to not stay in time for THAT long for many reasons if any of you watched many time-travel movies. 

"B-but I don't see the point now anymore now that we know the truth..." Jamie replied.

"Wait...I think Pinkie might be onto something!" Twilight beamed in excitement. "Now we can go back and tell our past selves that they don't need to go berserk with worry about a disaster that's never gonna come!"

"Are you s-sure?" Jamie asked in worried.

"Trust me Jamie, this will work!" Twilight nodded before swiping the scroll away from Pinkie's hooves before saying "Pinkie, you're such a genius!"

"Woo-hoo!" Pinkie shouted in excitement.

"So...this will mean that you guys are gonna travel back in time to warn yourselves?" I asked in confusion. "Are you sure...that's a good idea?"

"W-well...only one way to find out." Jamie shrugged as Twilight began chanting the spell as the wind started to shook, and some magic force began cackling around them before in a big flash of light, they were instantly gone.

"Well...that's that." Spike commented before gulping another bite of ice cream before groaning a bit. "Ooh...my stomach."

I couldn't help but smirked at him at that, realizing that he finally got that stomach ache.

"Well...I guess you deserved it for not listening to yourself, eh?" I joked.

"Yeah....you can say that again Ren...Ooh..." Huh? I looked behind me to see Kodi on the ground, rubbing his stomach in pain. "I don't feel so good..."

"And of course you had to get a stomach ache as well, Kodiak..." I shook my head in amusement before turning to Pinkie and asked "So Pinkie, could you tell me how on earth did you even do all that spy stuff?"

"Sorry Ren, but there are some things that even your best friend has to hide." Pinkie grinned brightly while I slumped my head in disappointment. Dang it! Oh well...at least I can learn by playing many Metal Gear games...I think.

"Oh well..." I sighed before slumping my head against the wall, accidentally getting a book to fall onto my head. "OW!"

"You okay Rennie?" Pinkie asked in worried.

"Y-yeah...I think so..." I rubbed my aching head before picking up the book, seeing it opened. "Huh? What is this?"

These words...I can't even read them. Guess there in some weird wording or whatever.

"What's what Rennie?" Pinkie asked curiously.

"I mean this book. It has some weird words in it." I said, showing her the book but she returned a confused expression.

"But Rennie...I don't see any words in it." Huh? She's kidding right? I looked over it and saw the weird language was still on the book.

"But...I can see them just fine." I pointed out. I don't think Pinkie would just flat out make it all up, so what's going on? Maybe I can ask Twilight and Jamie for when they come back from their little time traveling trick.

"Ooh! Maybe you have this magic ability to see things unlike the others!" Pinkie suggested, causing me to raise a brow at that. Why do I have the feeling she's referencing someone?

Suddenly, we saw a giant ball of light appearing in the room with both Twilight and Jamie appearing out of it.

"Waste your time...worrying...about..." Twilight froze upon seeing her and Jamie back in our original time. "Ugh! I can't believe I just did that!"

"Did you tell them about the cool birthday present?" Pinkie asked curiously.

"N-no Pinkie, we were trying to tell ourselves about not worrying about the future." Jamie explained.

"Yeah, and now we figure out what future Twilight and Jamie was warning about." Twilight explained. "I guess you were right Jamie. Sorry if I didn't listen to you before, Jamie."

"Heh heh...i-it's alright Twilight. I get that alot." Jamie smiled a bit before frowning. "Though I wished we warned them sooner or later..."

Hmm...really? Well...

"Well...why not allow me to go back in time?" I suggested, shocking the two. "I mean, I still have the message future me gave to your past selves. So why not let them have it?"

"That...could work." Twilight smiled at that idea. "But are you sure you can handle it Ren?"

"Course I can, Twi! Just leave it to me!" I grinned at that before handing Jamie the book I was holding. "Oh and Jamie, hold onto this book."

"Huh? Where did you get this?" Jamie asked curiously.

"I got it after it fell on my head while you guys when time-traveling." I replied. "But...I just want to see if you and Twilight could figure out what it says...or at least if Twilight can see the words."

"What?" Jamie asked in confusion.

"Don't worry, you'll figure it out. Right now, I should get going." I chuckled before turning to Twilight and asked "Twilight? Would you mind?"

"Umm...okay Ren." Twilight nodded as her horn glowed and hit a beam at me as I was wrapped around in a ball of light and was transported inside it.

"WHOOOOOAAAAAA!" I screamed as I was going through a dimensional link-like portal. Holy cow! This...Is...Awesoooooooome! 

Sooner or later, I saw a big light heading towards me as I went through it and fell down on the ground before seeing my surroundings. I was in the Golden Oaks Library, but the big difference was that I was in the past from last week. Jamie and Twilight...I-I mean, the past selves of Jamie and Twilight were right in front of me as they began uncovering their eyes from the giant flash.

"Hey you guys!" I waved happily at that as they looked at me with jaw-dropping expressions.

"R-R-Ren?!" Yep, I bet they're more shocked upon seeing me just transport myself like that. 

"Yep, it's me!" I placed my hands behind my head and made a toothy grin at them. "Just to answer your questions. No, this isn't a dream and I'm from the same timeline like your future selves."

"Really?!" Twilight grabbed me by the sweater's collar and began shaking me violently as she demanded "Tell us what's going on?! Please tell us! We need to know what's going to happen in our future! You need to tell us right now!"

G-god! Calm down Twilight! No need to do that, you know!

"T-Twilight! Calm down!" Jamie stopped by grabbing her by the shoulders and dragged her away from me, much to my relief...Until he came and started shaking me violently too. "Please tell us! Why did our future selves looked like that?!...Actually, why are you still looking normal unlike our future selves?"

"Well you see...I'm not sure if I should tell you that." I chuckled nervously. 

"What?! Why?!" Twilight exclaimed in shock.

"Well I'm not sure if that'll break the laws of time travel or not, or maybe you guys might start bombarding me with questions like you did before with your future selves, right?" Jamie and Twilight blushed in embarrassment, realizing that I had a point. "But overall, I do have a message to give you!"

"Y-you do?" Jamie asked incredulous as I took out the note out of pockets and handed it to them. Jamie and Twilight looked at each other in relief and awe as the former bowed his head repeatedly to me and chanted "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

"Heh heh, no mention it James." I chuckled before he turned serious and said "But don't open it just yet! You need to give it to my future me!"

"R-really? Why's that?" Twilight questioned.

"Don't question it! Just give it to him! And while you at it, tell him I said hi." I chuckled with a toothy grin and said "As well as time traveling is quite awesome! It makes me feel like I'm Marty Mcfly from Back To The Future!...Only except that I don't have a time traveling DeLorean..."

"...What?" Seriously? She doesn't know? Oh well, makes sense. But right now, we need to get her and the others to see the trilogy once we're done with this crap.

"Well anyway, see ya next week!" Iwinked before he disappeared into the magic ball of light, heading straight back into our time. I was going through the dimensional link-like portal as I smiled happily as I was about to head back in my own time. Phew, that was a close one. Glad that we're done...

You...are one of the ones....

Huh? W-who said that? 

You are one of the ones...who can shine the world....from the darkness....and despair... 

Those words? Why...do they bring a familiar ringing to me? Suddenly, my thoughts were cut-off as I was immediately gone through the light and landed on my feet. Phew, finally, back home safe and...what?

This certainly isn't the archives at all! I was in some place...a weird one too because the area I was in was all white. Strange...what's happening?

"Mr. Loodan..." Huh? I noticed a door over to my right as I walked over to it and peeked inside of it...and gasped upon seeing....me. But he wasn't alone, there were two strangers in there with me. 

"Mr. Loodan, we need you to think it over." One of the people said, much to past me's anger.

"No! I have the right to decline it! Why should I do this?! It's not fair to just straight out abandon my family!" Huh? Abandon our family? Why am I talking about? "I won't do it and that's final! I'll never agree to something like that!

"We know, but this is very important, so please, think about it." Huh? What is it? What is my past self trying to say?

"No...I have the right to decline. I'm sorry....but I won't do it." Do what? What is he saying? What's...going on? 

"...Very well, but call us  when it's right. But just remember...you are one of the ones who can shine the world...from the darkness and despair." That line...why? Just why is it so familiar to me? Before I could figure out what was happening, I felt a flash of light appearing before me and I was sucked back around the dimensional portal and was blasted right through it. 

"WHOOOOOOAAAAA!" I was immediately blasted right out of the portal and landed back on my feet before looking around, seeing myself back in the Canterlot Archives.

"Ren!" I turned around to see Pinkie, Twilight, Spike, Kodi, and Jamie looking at me with surprised and relieved looks on their faces.

"Hey you guys..." I waved at them while I was still confused on what I just experienced.

"Ren, did you manage to tell them?" Jamie asked curiously yet a little excited.

"Well no." I answered, much to their shock. "But I did gave them the note and told them to give it to my future self, so that'll help."

"I sure hope so..." Twilight sighed.

"But wait, even if they do give it to Rennie and presumably figured out what was happening, why are you two still like that?" Pinkie asked curiously, causing us to blink in surprise on how accurate she was on that.

"I...don't know. Seems like it's some sort of time paradox or something." Jamie shrugged. 

"Well either way, I'm glad it's all over with this many time-traveling business." I rubbed my head bashfully before turning to Jamie and asked "So Jamie, did you take a look at the book?"

"O-oh! I-I have Ren! Both me and Twilight did!" Jamie nodded. "But for some reason, only I was able to see the strange writing, but neither did Twilight and Pinkie."

"It's true, and Jamie seems to can't read the language." Twilight explained. "And I couldn't because me and Pinkie didn't see the writing."

"I see..." I don't get it. Why is it that only me and Jamie can see the writing, but Twilight and Pinkie can't. It seems pretty weird. "We should probably bring it back and tell the others about this, as well as...what I witnessed."

"W-what do you mean?" Kodi asked, still feeling his stomach in pain. I chuckled a bit before picking him up from the ground and carried him on my back as I said "Oh trust me, I don't know what I saw when I cross that portal, but I think it might be a clue."

"A-A clue? D-do you mean about our missing memories?" Jamie questioned, which I nodded.

"Well you can explain that when we get back to Ponyville." Twilight suggested before picking Spike up from the ground and carried him on her back. 

"Ohh...my stomach...I...I think it's all that ice cream...I thought the stomach ache would be future Spike's problem...but now I am future Spike. Ohh..." Spike rubbed his aching tummy, which made us all laughed at that.

"Come on, future Spike. Let's get you home." Twilight chuckled.

"You said it...future Twilight." I joked, causing the others to laugh at that as we began leaving the Canterlot Archives. Well, I would say this time-traveling journey was probably the best thing I've ever done. Best part of all is that I get to time-travel and it was pretty awesome!

"So Ren..." Jamie came over to my right and showed me the journal I found. "Do you really think it's possible that this book might hold something?"

"Don't know. What do you thnk?" I asked curiously.

"Well...I-I just don't get it why Twilight and Pinkie can't see the writing...but I can, but can't read the language. It must be from the ancient times when Starswirl the Bearded had it." Jamie replied. "So...maybe it might be a clue?"

"I guess so, but no worries." I made a toothy grin at him and said "I know that you and Twilight can decipher on what it said."

"Well...I'm not so sure if it's right to take it from the archives, especially if it belongs to Starswirl the Bearded." Jamie pointed out, feeling worried about it.

"Don't worry, I'm sure Princess Celestia and Twilight will understand. Just be patient." I assured with a grin.

"O-okay..." He sighed before tucking the journal behind his notebook. "Though...I do wonder what's inside of this book..."

Me too Jamie, me too...and I want to wonder...what did I just witness. I saw myself, but from the past talking to some strangers at a weird place. I didn't get a good look on their faces, but they looked like they were in some black suits. And I'm curious to know what my future self was talking about with those guys...Ugh, my head. I feel like I'm getting a headache all of a sudden.

Suddenly, I heard a burp from behind me as I gaze at Kodiak, who was now resting on my head with a calm expression on his face as he mutters "Ahh...I feel so much better."

Oh well, in the meantime...I guess I can put him to sleep on my bed once we get back home. Then...we can talk about on our discoveries. Then hopefully, we might be getting on the right track onto finding a way back home...



Meanwhile
"So you're saying that you wished for my Changelings to go over and invade Canterlot while I disguised myself in there without anypony knowing it's me?"

The mysterious figure nodded as he was in the throne room of the leader of the bug-like creatures kingdom. The figure he was talking to was a bigger black bug unlike the servants here in the kingdom. It looked similar to a pony's body, but had a twisted unicorn horn, a pair of tattered insectoid wings, and stands as tall as Princess Celestia. She even had sharp pair of dangs and dark green eyes with elongated oval pupils, along with a teal mane and tail, blue-green chitinous plating over her midsection, and wears a small black crown tipped with blue orbs.

"Indeed my dear queen Chrysalis." He nodded.

"Well..." Queen Chrysalis smirked at that idea before suspiciously walking over to him and asked "What's in it for me?"

"I have heard rumors about a certain wedding taking place there between the Captain of the Royal Guard and one of the princesses, presumably Princess Celestia and Luna's niece." The figure explained. "Think about it. A wedding shows many love than you and your Changelings have ever witnessed. Once you suck up all of their love, you all can live on forever, just like before. After all...You own me my life debt after I broke you all out of your prison when Celestia trapped you in that volcano. So...you owe me."

Queen Chrysalis smirked at that and replied "Well...I do enjoy a little snack. Very well...this shall be a great joy of all of us enjoying our latest taste of love!"

"Good...but I do have to warn you. They're might be a bit of trouble, what with these humans in Equestria might be trying to stop you all from achieving this goal." The figure warned, only to receive a scoff from Chrysalis.

"I do not care about these strange 'humans' you speak of. They are of no concern for me." Chrysalis turned to her army of Changelings and announced "Hear me out my loyal subjects. We are going to Canterlot and planned a sneak attack on those ponies for disowning our existence, for never accepting our love, and...take their love from us." She licked her lips just thinking about it as the rest of her minions let out cheers, agreeing with their leader.

The figure himself scoffed and said "As always, her arrogance and ego will be her downfall. Like the many fools I have encounter a millennia ago back then...Besides, it's fun to see her do that."

"What was that?" Chrysalis turned to him with an irritated look on her face.

"Nothing my dear Chrysalis. But you know, it's fun seeing your Changelings like this, despite being controlled by you." Chrysalis gave him a glare as he continued "Is this perhaps of your...hive mind? With you being queen and all that."

"...I do not need your pleasure. Even without my hive mind, the Changelings know their leader and need me because I'm the only one who can support them." Chrysalis boasted, which made the figure turned his head away.

"Very well..." The figure began taking his leave out of the Changeling's castle.

"And where do you think you're going?" Chrysalis asked.

"I'm just heading out. Because right now, there's someone else I need to go see." The figure chuckled. "After all, he owns me his life-debt after I helped him escape from his prison."

"Really? And who are you referring?" She asked suspiciously, but the figure went silent before answering "...Sorry, but you are going to wait. Soon, my plan will work after all."

"Really? Your plan?" Chrysalis scoffed before asking "If this plan involves me and my Changelings being used by the likes of you by suggesting to invade Canterlot, then-"

"That is true, I'll admit. However, if it's world domination against all these pitiful creatures, then no. I have no interest in ruling a boring world such as this. Even to this day, it's ironic that these specimens still haven't learned their lesson." The figure chuckled darkly while Chrysalis narrowed her eyes at him before he began taking his leave. "But right now, I must go. After all, my newest comrade will soon help me gain back what I lost..."

"Whatever..." Chrysalis scoffed before returning to her throne. "Just get out or else I'll order my Changelings to suck out all of your love."

The figure started to let out a chuckle before saying "Well that will be too bad...since I possess no emotion since the day my masters brought me to this world..."

Chrysalis went silent at that as the figure began leaving her castle and began heading out of the Changeling kingdom.

"Soon....just soon will I gain back my powers from them..." The dark figure chuckled as his eye began glowing crimson red. "And then...Equestria will learn the true meaning of 'hope'."
To Be Continued
> Chapter 50 - Dragon Quest! A Dragon's Creed!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Man, can't wait for the others to enjoy these snacks we made." I commented while holding onto a small box filled with delicious PB&J Sandwiches, along with some containers of Iced Tea I made as well. Oh...I didn't see you there. Hi, I'm Kaede Ross but you're pretty much know who I am throughout this adventure. I'm just your everyday average high school girl...or at least I thought I was till I found myself stuck in this world. I started getting used to being here in this world and possibly a good place to relax from my stepfamily for a while. But right now, I was just carrying some lunches along with Applejack, Carrie, Spike and Pinkie for a special event we're going to see and I think many of you are gonna like it. I even brought Rosy with me as she was resting on my left shoulder and I gotta say, she looks so adorable.

"I know right?! Especially with all these cupcakes, chocolate cake, red velvet cake, cinnamon rolls, and milkshakes!" Pinkie exclaimed in excitement, holding onto a box filled with the items she described.

"You made all that?!" Carrie exclaimed in awe, drooling a bit. "Ooh, just hearing all those delicious sweets just makes me wanna have them all!" 

"Same here!" Spike added.

"Settle down Carrie, remember it's for everyone." Applejack reminded her.

"Yeah, everyone deserves to eat these while they worked hard for that Dragon Migration thing." I added with a smile. Oh? What's the Dragon Migration you ask? Well I don't know much about it but Jamie and Twilight explained that it took place once a generation for dragons across the entire continent of Equestria flying towards a new home and they calculated that they're always seen in the exact same location we're going to watch. Just up the hill on the outskirts of Ponyville.

"Yeah, I helped too on it, remember?" Spike smirked. "And besides, these desserts will be something all of us will enjoy."

"Of course Spike, you worked so hard on them." I nodded. "Say, you wouldn't mind if I helped carry that box for you, huh? It looks kinda heavy."

"Nah, I got it." Spike shrugged, not bothered how heavy that small box was.

"Well alright then. If you insist." I shrugged as we continued our way towards up the hill.

“Say Spike, are you excited that you’re gonna more dragons?” Carrie asked curiously.

“Are you kidding? It’ll be awesome to see my own species!” Spike chuckled. “After all, dragons are the greatest species on Equestria.”

“A-HEM!” Spike turned to Applejack and Pinkie, who both gave him raised brows.

“As well as ponies, obviously!” Spike chuckled nervously, much to their satisfaction. 

“You know, I never known about dragons that much.” I stated. “What kind of dragon are you Spike?”

“Yeah.” Carrie nodded in agreement before we noticed Spike rubbing his head bashfully with a nervous yet depressed look before replying “Well…that’s the thing. I really don’t know about what kind of dragon I am nor where’s my family at.”

“Oh right…sorry about that.” I apologized.

“Yeah, we didn’t mean to ask you that.” Carrie added, but Spike shook his head with a soft smile and said “No worries. I really don’t think about it much. I mean, I got you all right?”

“Well…I guess you have a point there.” I chuckled before we finally towards the hill and one look at the top to see a giant trench in front of us, with Jack  and Mason working on it. “Hey you guys! We’re back!”

“About frigging time!” Jack sighed heavily the moment he pushed his shovel down the dirt. 

“Wowie-Zowie! Look at those muscles!” Pinkie exclaimed, gazing at their bods. Apparently, both Jack and Mason had to take off their shirts off and showing some bare skin, which made Applejack covered Pinkie’s eyes, even covering her own eyes.

“Woo-wee! You two didn’t tell us you were going to show off that much skin!” Applejack exclaimed.

“Sorry, we didn’t mean too.” Mason apologized with a little bow. “It was getting hot down here and so we decided to take our shirts off to keep ourselves cool.” 

I blushed a bit with a nervous grin while Carrie and Spike giggled at that before I commented “Well…that makes sense.”

Soon, he and Jack put down the shovels before putting back on their shirts back on while Jack had a smug look on his face and said “Ha! How do ya like it? We’ve worked on it all afternoon and managed to finish it in time before the others showed up!”

“Okay, no need to boast about that.” Mason rolled his eyes with a smirk on his face. 

“I gotta say…” Applejack whistled, uncovering Pinkie’s eyes before she said “This trench looks mighty big. Great work you two.”

“Thanks!” Mason and Jack said in unison.

“Wow, this looks so cool!” Carrie said, gazing down at the huge trench they made before forming a confused look. “But…why do we need it? Aren’t the dragons gonna be friendly creatures like Spike.”

“Yeah, aren’t they?” Pinkie asked.

“I’m sorry but that’s not it.” We all turned around to see Jamie, Twilight, Ren, Fluttershy, Kodiak, Rainbow Dash, and even Rantaro walked into the scene, but the strangest thing is that they were all wearing suits that makes them looks like military men. So I guess they did come useful, huh? “Dragons are known for being very aggressive dragons and we can’t have the possibility of us getting roasted.” Twilight stated.

“Y-yeah…it’s true. Spike is just an exception because he was raised among ponies while the other dragons a-are…let’s just say…aggressive.” Jamie added.

“I’m right here you know?” Spike tapped his foot, forming an upset look on his face.

“Well either way, I guess we’ll be safe in this trench during the migration, right?” I chuckled nervously before putting the food down onto the trench. “Besides, you guys should enjoy it.”

“Kay’s right.” Ren agreed. “We didn’t come all this way for nothing, right?”

“Exactly!” I nodded.
“Though I am well surprise for both Fluttershy and Rantaro to be here.” Mason pointed out.

“W-well…I didn’t have a choice…” Fluttershy muttered, hiding behind Ren. “I-I didn’t want to come here…”
“And I was feeling bored what with no one of those ponies wanting info. I guess they can pay the prices.” Of course someone like you would figured that out, Rantaro…

“Makes sense with the two of you having no upbeat about it.” Jack scoffed lightly, causing Rantaro to smirk and Fluttershy to hide behind Ren more.

“Really? How ironic for a fatso like you.” Rantaro snickered, causing Jack to feel enraged and tried to go over and punch him in the face, but Mason held him back.

“N-no! Just don’t! It’s not even worth it!” Mason exclaimed, holding him back. Jack soon calmed down before scoffing “Tch!…Whatever.”

“So anyway…” I turned over to Fluttershy and asked “Why exactly don’t you wanna come Fluttershy? I thought you love animals?”
“I do…but not dragons.” Fluttershy shivered as Ren held her hoof to calm her down. “They’re so big, mean, scary, and…and…big!”

“Oookay?” Well I never seen her THAT scared before. “So what made you come here and enjoy the Dragon Migration if you’re so scared of it?”

“That’s what I’m wondering!” Rainbow exclaimed. “I tried many times to make her come, even reminding her the time for dragging me over to that stupid Butterfly Migration!”
Rainbow pulled out a picture of her and Fluttershy as they were on a plain fields area where many butterflies were seen flying into the skies on the background. Fluttershy was seen smiling happily while Rainbow Dash on the other hand had a solemn and bored look on her face. 

“Well there’s a difference between dragons and butterflies Rainbow.” Mason pointed sternly.

“Whatever! Anyway, I owned her a favor, now she has own me a favor by watching the Dragon Migration!” Rainbow exclaimed, not noticing the anger look on Fluttershy upon hearing her friend called the Butterfly Migration ‘stupid’.

“Rainbow Dash, calm down.” Ren said with a soft smile. “I understand why you’re upset, but you have to understand that Fluttershy is the type to be easily scared. I mean, you do remember what happened last time when a large dragon came to Ponyville?”
Rainbow widened her eyes upon hearing that being mentioned before looking away with a light blush on her face.

“W-well…I….shut up Ren.” Rainbow muttered. Huh? A large dragon here in Ponyville? I’m guessing it took place while the rest of us weren’t around.

"And besides, Fluttershy is always comfortable and finds Ren irresistible to hate." Kodi added, causing the two to flushed in embarrassment. 

"H-hey come on...!" Ren exclaimed.

"I-I'm not that attracted to Ren." Fluttershy twiddled her hooves before covering her mouth upon realizing what she said before turning to Ren and said "I-I'm so sorry Ren! No offense!"

"Nah, it's alright." Ren raised his hands with a nervous grin, not bothered by what Fluttershy said.

"Hey!" Jack yelled out of impatience. "Don't you think we should watch that frigging Dragon Migration thing or whatever?!"

"Thanks for the reminder Jack." Twilight smiled. "I am quite excited to actually enjoy it. I think we might be the first ponies and humans to ever witness the Dragon Migration!"

"Really?" Ren asked in surprise. "But I thought ponies would come here and enjoy it like we are."

"I-I'm afraid that's impossible." Jamie shook his head, glancing down nervously. "Y-you see...I heard from Twilight t-that many ponies don't research about dragons."

"They don't? But why?" I asked, feeling interested upon learning that.

"W-well..." Jamie twiddled his fingers until Twilight spoke up and said "Don't take it as an offense, but what he's saying that many ponies are quite too afraid to approach them and scared confronting them due to their violent and aggressive behavior."

"But what about Spike?" Carrie asked.

"Spike is a good friend and a great assistant." Twilight smiled.

"Y-yeah..." Jamie softly smiled. "He's quite d-dedicated with his job..."

"Ahh...thanks you guys." Spike smiled.

"So...nopony has ever researched about them?" Mason questioned, crossing his arms. "Because they were afraid of being near them?"

"Yes." Twilight nodded. "I know it might sound like a bad excuse, but it's the truth."

"Y-yes." Fluttershy nodded. "I-I mean...I'm scared of dragons too you know."

"But you hang out with Spike." Rantaro pointed out, pointing his finger on the right side of his head like he was pretending to hold a gun in his hand. "Who happens to be a dragon."

"W-well...he isn't that big, scary, or mean...." Fluttershy admitted, blushing a bit.

"Yeah, Spike is a nice guy and a dude you want to hang out every weekend." Ren added with a grin.

"Guys, come on, you're embarrassing me..." Spike chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his head.

"Man, you ponies are pussies." Jack scoffed. "You all are just scared of the littlest bit of anything, almost like your shadows."

"Says you." Rainbow snickered, causing Jack to give her a deadpan glare.

"Whatever..." Rantaro shrugged.

"Hey, how about we stop all the yip-yap and get over to watch the Dragon Migration?" Applejack reminded us.

"Yeah! Me, Carrie, Applejack and Kaede didn't make all these snacks by ourselves you know!" Pinkie added. Everyone nodded as they decided to save their argument later before climbing down onto the trench and gazed at the picnic we made for the occasion.

"Whoa!" Kodi gasped in amazement before drooling all over the floor. "Just look at all of this food!"

"Huh...impressive." Mason smirked a bit.

"No way! Y-you worked all of this?!" Jamie asked me in shock, which caused me to blush a bit on that.

"W-well...I wanted to help out and not feel left out from the activities. I can cook, clean, and make outfits and dresses you know." I rubbed my arm bashfully, glancing away from their awe expressions.

"Huh...I guess you're not so useless after all." Jack laughed.

"Well, what you expect? She's the type to love to clean like some women I know." Rantaro chuckled, causing me to raise a brow at him.

"Hey! What's that supposed to mean?" I asked suspiciously.

"Wait..." Mason looked around the trench with an open eye. "Where's Rarity? Is she not here yet?"

"N-no...she said she was gonna 'prettified' herself for this event." Jamie replied. "Though...I-I have a feeling that she won't bother to even wear the outfits Kaede made..."

"Oh, so Kaede made those cameo outfits?" Applejack asked.

"Wow, I didn't know you can make that kind of outfits!" Pinkie added while I smiled happily at being complimented before waving it off and said "No no, it's nothing. It's just out of my generosity for you guys. I don't mind."

"Wait, why the hell are you wearing those?" Jack questioned with a dumbfounded look. "What? You all going to a frigging military or something?"

"No, it's just something for precautions." Twilight stated. "After all, safety first."

"Yeah yeah whatever. Ain't gonna wear that junk." Jack scoffed before laying on the side of his hip before scratching his butt a little. "Wake me up when it begins."

"Oh Jack...." Mason sighed before turning to me and asked "Is it possible that you made many more outfits for the rest of us?"

"Yep, sure did." I nodded with a smile. "I gave it to Jamie and Twilight to hold onto them."

"Y-yes...she's right." Jamie nodded. "I-I'll go get them out of the bags..."

"No, let me go get them Jamie. I don't want you to overwork yourself like you did last night." Twilight said with a concerned look.

"No...please..." Jamie said with a soft smile before walking over to the bags he and the others brought over as he began unpacking some things to get the other uniforms. Oh right...I know what he was talking about since we discussed about it yesterday.



Flashback
"No way!" 

"Holy crap!"

"Are you...serious?!" 

Those comments came from Kaede, Jack, and Mason as they looked at Ren in shock and surprise. It was hours after the little time-traveling skirmish as Ren, Twilight, Jamie, Spike, Kodiak, and Pinkie Pie returned back to Ponyville as Ren decided to call everypony to the library as they discussed what Ren witnessed during traveling through time, along with him finding a book that only we can see...but the others can't. 

"Yeah, it's what I saw!" Ren nodded before rubbing his cheek with an embarrassed grin on his face. "Or...at least what I witnessed. I didn't get any clearance on what I saw but I saw myself talking to some strangers in weird black suits telling me about something."

"And you couldn't find out what it was?" Rantaro questioned, sucking on a lollipop he 'bought' from over Sugarcube Corner. "Well...that was some useful clue."

"But it might lead up to something." Twilight pointed out sternly. "This could be a key to why you guys are here."

"But how in Equestria did Ren witnessed that event while time-traveling?" Applejack asked.

"That's a good question..." Jamie looked over at his own notebook and looked over his notes. "B-but I guess that can't be solved for a while since that spell we used to go back in time can't work since we used it once."

"Yeah...but I guess maybe it could've been an interruption from the spell or something?" Twilight suggested.

"Who cares?! I just wanna get out of this place and get back home to my gang!" Jack exclaimed angrily.

"Calm down..." Mason stated softly but with a stern look. "I understand your anger, but remember to calm down."

"Tch..." Jack growled a bit, seemingly calming down.

"So...what happened then?" Kaede asked.

"I don't know, but whatever it was, I kept refusing it." Ren replied with a shrug while Kodi came over and nudged his arm in worried.

"Well...do you think they were talking about?" Kodi wondered aloud.

"Don't know, but maybe an offer or something?" Ren shrugged before placing his hand on his chin in thought. 

"Obviously if you said that you kept refusing on what they said." Rantaro scoffed, glancing towards him.

"And not only that...but we found this journal in the Starswirl The Bearded Wing of the Canterlot Archives." Jamie showed them the book, letting his human companions see the weird language words on it but the ponies couldn't see anything.

"I can't darn see the words!" Applejack pointed out.

"Yeah! Are you sure that you're not messing with us Jamie?" Rainbow questioned, shocking Jamie.

"W-what?! N-no I wouldn't!" Jamie shook his head, flinching a bit from that accusation.

"Calm down." Mason said. "Jamie would never joke about something like this."

"He's got a good point." Fluttershy agreed.

"Whatever! What the hell is it saying?! I can't read this crap!" Jack exclaimed.

"That's the thing...I-I don't know..." Jamie muttered, causing Jack to snort and said "Of frigging course you wouldn't know that."

"S-Sorry!" Jamie squeaked, causing Twilight to glare sternly at the biker.

"Jack! That's enough! Right now we'll likely try to translate it!" Twilight stated sternly, causing Jack to snort.

"Whatever..." Jack scoffed.

"Hey! How come they can read it but not us?" Pinkie whined.

"Yeah, even I can't read it." Kodi added, pouting a bit.

"Yeah..." Carrie nodded. "Do you guys think it might be a magic spell?"

"No doubt about it." I nodded. "But if this belong to Starswirl, why did he enchant his own journal? To keep out anyone from reading it?"

"That seems like a possibility..." Rantaro let out a smirk and said "Guess this old geezer might've thought that he couldn't trust anyone into whatever he wrote."

"Rantaro!" Twilight exclaimed in anger. 

"Ugh, such foul language he gives out." Rarity scoffed. 

"Wow, how ironic for such a 'lady' like you." Rantaro shrugged, causing Rarity to make a dramatic gasp.

"Excuse me?!" 

"Alright alright, simmer down." Applejack said, trying to make sure no one starts up a fight. "Look, we may not know what's that book says to them or to us-"

Applejack stopped mid-sentence as Pinkie raised her hoof in the air, causing her to sigh.

"Yes Pinkie?"

"But how can we read it since we can't see it?" Pinkie asked dumbfounded while Applejack face-hooved herself and let out another sigh and said "Well they can read it for us, but I bet it's gonna take a while."

"Applejack has a point. I'm sure Princess Celestia can figure it out." Twilight smiled softly. "Hopefully it leads us to some good answers. And better yet..." Twilight smiled excitedly with a glee and exclaimed "This could be it! We could possibly discover any secret Starswirl The Bearded has ever kept that nopony has ever found it for 1,000 of years!"

"That could be a possibility!" Jamie exclaimed, sharing the same excitement as her before he grabbed her hooves and said "We could learned any type of spell that no one has ever discovered or maybe some secret locations he never revealed to anyone but himself! Think of what we could discovered Twilight!"

"I know, right Jamie?!" Twilight giggled as they stared at each other for a long moment while the others cleared their throats, gaining their attention. Jamie and Twilight blinked before coughing awkwardly and looking away from each other. "R-right...anyway..."

"Yeah..." Kaede nodded with a nervous smile. "But...we might have a chance to go back home!"

"Really?" Carrie asked, feeling hopeful about that.

"Yeah! I mean that book might contain some spell that can transport others to worlds, right? At least that's what I think so." I nodded.

"Yeah! Kaede might have a point!" Ren agreed with a bright grin on his face as he continued "That book might contain something like that once Jamie and Twilight can decipher it's code!...Or at least Jamie, but hopefully Twilight can help him figure that out."

"Of course we can." Twilight and Jamie said in unison, feeling proud that Ren has total faith in their credibility.

"Well...I sure hope so." Mason sighed.

"Ugh...wasted my time for this sentimental crap." Rantaro sighed irritably.

"Well at least enjoy spending time here." Pinkie stated. "I mean, the way you keep saying that it's wasting time makes us wonder why you're acting so mean."

"I'm not mean. I'm just stating out how I feel." Rantaro smirked before taking his leave. "Now excuse me, I rather go and earn some money."

"Well...at least we don't have to hear more of his crap." Jack scoffed.

"So...do you think that journal might lead us back home?" Carrie asked curiously with a hopeful smile.

"Well that's what they're assuming Carrie." Mason softly smiled. "But...maybe Ren and Kaede have a point. It might contain something that can lead us back home."

"Exactly!" Kaede said with a smile. "We just have to wait for when Jamie and Twilight tried to decipher the code."

"We sure hope so..." Jamie muttered loudly.

"I know that you can." Ren assured, surprising Jamie as he realized that he said it too loud before calming down a bit with a soft smile.

"Y-yes...thank you Ren." Jamie softly smiled, blushing a bit. 

"Yeah, I sure hope so..." Kaede muttered as she smiled over at her friends, feeling a bite hopeful that that mysterious journal could be the key leading them back home. It will lead them to possibly some answers to the mysteries surrounding Equestria.

Flashback End




Man, it sure was shocking by what Ren told us what he witnessed during his time-traveling adventure after the part about giving past Twilight and Jamie that message. 

"Kaede, something wrong?" I looked over to see Carrie as she looked at me with a confused look. 

"H-huh? Oh no, it's nothing Carrie! Just thinking about...things." I assured with a soft grin. Carrie seemed to understand as she decided to hang out with her older brother while the rest of us were wearing the cameo outfits that I worked on all night last night. Rosy soon woke up and began nuzzling my cheek, causing me to chuckle a bit.

"Oh thanks Rosy." I chuckled before scratching her underneath her chin before setting her down on the ground. "Here, why not you go play with your big brother Kodi over there?"

Rosy beamed at that idea before running and over and jumped on his face, which caught Kodi off-guard before laughing upon realizing who it was. 

"Aww Rosy!" I couldn't help but smile upon seeing that scene while the rest of the gang were sitting around either eating snacks that we've prepared or watching outside to see if the dragons finally arrived. 

"I don't see any dragons." Twilight said, not noticing one in the sky with her binoculars.

"Me neither." Applejack nodded.

"Me neither neither." Pinkie added, causing Mason to give her a deadpanned look and asked "Is that even a sentence?"

"Maybe so, maybe not?" PInkie shrugged, causing him to face-palm himself.

"S-strange..." Jamie took out his notebook and looked over it with a confused look. "We should've seen some by now."

"Shoot!" Rainbow cursed herself, feeling extremely angry and worried at the same time. "You don't think we missed them, do you?"

Twilight shook her head and said "No, I don't think so. We're just a little early, and I'm glad we are."

"This way, we can watch every moment of the migration without bringing any unwanted attention to ourselves!" Jamie added.

"Whatever, it better not take long!" Jack scoffed while his pet guinea pig was laying on his head with a relaxed look on his face. No sooner when she arrived...

"Yoo-hoo!" We all turned around to see a red carpet roll straight towards the stairs into the trench. She came in wearing some weird outfit that she might've made which I soon realized why she wanted to wear it.

"Well, what do you think?" Rarity asked as she posed smoothly in her outfit. "Aren't I the toast of the trench or what?"

"Toast of the trench?" Ren asked in confusion.

"What does that mean?" Kodi asked in confusion, only to receive a shrug from him.

"You'll be toast alright, when the dragons see you parading around in that getup!" Applejack glared at her.

"Yeah, are you trying to get yourself killed ya loon?!" Jack growled. "Besides, it makes you look more ugly than before."

Rarity scoffed at him and muttered "Says so what with that dirty overcoat you're wearing..."

"R-Rarity..." Jamie spoke up, feeling a bit worried on what she was wearing. "Y-you look very nice, Rarity, but maybe could you look nice down here in the trench with us...as well as taking the outfit off for our sake?"

"Indeed, it might lead to the possibility to lure the dragons here Rarity." Mason agreed. 

"Ooh, but come on! I worked so hard on it all night!" Rarity complained. "What's the best of wearing a good dress if you aren't gonna wear one?"

"Who the hell even says that?!" Jack exclaimed.

"Don't bother to talk her out of it, trust me I tried..." I sighed irritably while the others soon realized how true that was. Rarity was some stubborn pony, am I right?

"Well can you at least come down here before you attract any attention?" Ren asked, which Rarity complied as she arrived down into the trench and was eager to enjoy the scene until she accidentally stepped on her drapes and fell down until Mason caught her.

"I gotcha!" Mason said, settling her down a bit as she looks up with awe and a blush.

"O-Oh Mason! T-thank you so much darling!" Rarity smiled as her cheeks showed some pink on it and it wasn't from the make-up.

"I was just looking out for you, that's all." Mason softly smiled at her before covering his mouth with his scarf, and I could've sworn that he was feeling embarrassed as well.

“Guys! Look!” We all looked over at Carrie as she pointed upwards through the sky as we bore witnessed to see so many dragons flying through the skies and there were like millions of them!

“Holy cow! Look at them!” Ren exclaimed in excitement.

“OOH!…AHH!…” We all went as we felt amazed upon seeing it. 

“There’s gotta be like thousands of them…” Kodi muttered in awe.

“No…millions…” Jamie added.

“Amazing!” Twilight exclaimed in excitement.

“Amazing indeed!” I smiled softly. Wow, I never witnessed something like this. You would see some things from a movie and/or TV show, but seeing it in real life makes you feel like you just accomplished something.

Soon, we saw a yellow dragon dived and did a quick loop de’ loop before rising back up to join to his friends and family.

“Whoa!” Kodi exclaimed in joy.

“Pfft!” Rainbow scoffed before blowing a raspberry and said “Pretty lame move. Is that all they got?”

As if on cue, one dragon bumped into another, that one blowing fire in rage, making us all duck in time while Rainbow didn’t, her face covered in smoke.

“You were saying Skittles?” Jack laughed. “Looks like that dragon isn’t as lame as you thought, eh?”

Rainbow Dash wasn’t even bothered by Jack’s comment as she shook her head to blow off the smoke and made a meek smiled. 

“I…stand corrected. I retracted the word lame and subsitute fierce!” 

“And formidable!” Rarity agreed.

“And outstanding.” Mason added.

“And awesome!” Carrie exclaimed.

“And super-duper-scary!” Pinkie squeaked.

“Woo! Man, this is something out of How To Train Your Dragon!” Ren exclaimed in amazement. “Ooh! When we have time, we gotta watch the series, specials, and the movies! You guys are gonna like it!”

“’How To Train Your Dragon?’ That’s a really weird name for a movie.” Fluttershy pointed out.

“And please, train a dragon? We can practically train ourselves.” Spike chuckled. I’ve seen that movie before and it’s such a heartbreaking movie! Ooh, my favorite part is the one about the one was that part where he and his dragon flying around for the first time! It was so epic!

“Well you are Twilight’s number one assistant.” Ren joked, drinking a bottle of spring water. “But man, you sure how to be prepared Kay.”

“Oh come on, I was just helping out, that’s all.” I waved it off with a light blush.

“Yeah! Kay is the best!” Carrie giggled while I flushed in embarrassment.

“G-guys…stop it. It was something out of my help. After all, if Rarity was planning on making the snacks, she would have done the same way as I did. Just an act of generosity.” I chuckled while Rarity smiled at me and commented “Quite true Kaede darling.”

“Well who cares? She’s got some snacks, I say stop embarrassing her.” Jack chuckled, picking his ear a bit before gazing over at the dragon on the skies. “But damn, who knew dragons actually frigging exist here?”

“But Spike is a dragon, remember?” Carrie reminded him.

“Okay, so what?!” Jack exclaimed. 

“Well it’s understandable really…” Rantaro shrugged. “Dragons only exist in myths, so there you have it.”

“But you have to understand…” Spike walked over with a pink apron on and handed us the vittles that I packed as well. “Us dragons are definitely a force to be reckoned with! It’s a shame that they don’t exist in your world.”

“And probably a good thing…” Rantaro muttered, causing me to frown a bit. I just hope that Spike didn’t hear that because that might’ve been an offensive word there.

“True, but still Spike…” Rainbow laughed with a smirk on her face. “That’s gotta be one of the scariest aprons I’ve ever!”

That caused the other girls, Ren, Jack, Kodiak, and Rantaro except Carrie, Mason, Jamie and I, to start laughing while we raised a brow over by the confused and enraged Spike.

“What’s wrong with wearing an apron?!” Spike demanded, feeling upset about it. “You won’t be laughing when you spill blueberries all over your scales!…” He widened his eyes before realizing something before saying “Feathers…that’s one tough stain!”

“How the hell can feathers be a tough stain?!” Jack fell down on his back and kept laughing. 

“I’m with ya fatty! One tough stain against one lame dragon!” Rainbow chuckled.

“Okay, I think that’s enough.” Mason stated sternly.

“Yeah!” Ren soon started to calm down before wiping a tear from his eye. “But I gotta say Spike, you can be quite a cool guy despite being a small dragon.”

“Uhh…thanks” Spike raised a brow in confusion as Rarity came over with a smile and said “Indeed! Spike’s style is unique! He doesn’t have to look like other dragons!”

“Or act like them.” Twilight stated, causing Spike to feel bad for himself.

“My little Spike-wikey is perfect the way he is.” Rarity said, ruffling his spines while Spike started to get boiling mad as he slowly asked “I don’t…act like other dragons?”

“Oh no even close!” Pinkie answered with a bright grin.

“Umm…girls? Don’t you think that you’re going too far?” I asked in worried.

“Yeah, I think that’s enough n-now.” Jamie pleaded, but they kept going as Applejack asked “But why would you want to, Spike?”

“Yes. You've got something those dreadfully fierce dragons can only dream of." Rarity giggled, neither she or the others noticing Spike's face turning red.

"What's that?" Spike asked.

"The cutest widdle chubby cheeks, ooh!" Rarity giggled, messing around with his cheeks before he felt embarrassed before pushing her hooves away and exclaimed "Cute?! Dragons aren't supposed to be cute!"

"It's not much of a big deal." Rantaro shrugged. "I mean, you are a baby after all."

"Yeah...a walking talking baby dragon." Ren added.

"Oh sweetie, you are turning the most delightful shade of red, it is most becoming!" Rarity gushed, causing Spike to growl loudly before yelling "ERRRRGGGGH!"

With that, he stormed off, humiliated while we watched with worried and confused looks until Mason gave them a stern look and exclaimed "What was that for?!"

"What? We were just complimenting Spike." Twilight shrugged.

"That's not what he thought." Rantaro pointed out. "What he heard from you girls were insults."

"What?!" All the mares in the room exclaimed in shock.

"B-but we didn't mean that!" Fluttershy exclaimed.

"Hey, calm down Flutters." Ren assured with a soft smile. "You all just didn't know."

"Though I am quite worried about Spike..." Mason said, gazing at where Spike was at. "I have a bad feeling that he's starting to question about his own existence."

"W-what do you mean Mason darling?" Rarity asked in concern.

"I mean is that he might be questioning whether he's a dragon...or not." We all looked at each other in worried, letting Mason's words sink in. I-I'm so worried about Mason, but...I just hope Spike didn't take it personal.

"Well I'm sure he'll be fine." Jack shrugged it off as he continued "Besides, he would've accept who he is if you girls would stop treating him like a baby instead of a man."

"Uh, what?" Applejack questioned as she and the other girls glared at the biker.

"I'm just saying that he can take care of himself, but you girls just keep pestering him  every day and can't just let him mind his own business." Jack stated, causing the girls and the rest of us to look at each other in worried.

"D-do you really think so?" Rarity asked.

"I have to agree with him there." Rantaro shrugged, taking out his lollipop and giving it to Gizmo, who just happened to be sitting around by where we packed our foods in as he enjoyed sucking it. "If you mares hadn't compared him to those dragons up there, then maybe he wouldn't feel upset. I hope you're happy..."

With that, Rantaro walked out of the trench while the rest of us looked at each other, feeling guilty for what we've done. Ooh, I just hope that Spike doesn't take this personal...




My Little Pony Theme Song

The Next Day
It was the day after the Dragon Migration, we all headed back home and spend the rest of the day with our normal lives, but it was getting late and we all went to sleep and now we all were eating some breakfast that me and Mason cooked up. It was just me, Ren, Carrie, Kodiak, Rosy, and Mason around in the dining table. Jack and Rantaro weren't up yet and Jamie wasn't around due to staying up all night over by Twilight's library and we were still feeling bad for Spike getting talked-down unintentionally like that.

"Big brother..." Carrie looked at her brother with a concern look and asked "Do you think that Spike is...gonna be alright?"

Not wanting to crush her hopes, Mason gave her a soft smile and said "Rest assured Carrie, I'm sure Spike is gonna calm his temper down and try to forget what the girls said to him yesterday."

"Yeah, I'm sure he will." Kodi stated with a smile.

"I sure hope so." Ren sighed before forming a smile. "But overall, I am curious to know what kind of dragon he is. I mean, we never did find out about him."

"But don't you remember what Twilight told us back then?" I reminded him as I said "She said that she first met Spike after trying to hatch him from an egg that she tried to go over towards the entrance exam when she was a kid, remember?"

"I know but do you ever wonder where he came from?" Well...you do bring up a good question, but none of us even have the answer for that.

"Well...I don't know about that..."

"Thinking about it, Spike is just an orphan, just like me." Kodi pouted, lowering his head down until Rosy came over and nuzzled his cheek, making him form a smile on his muzzle.

"Along with me and Carrie back then. I can understand the self-doubts Spike is having after yesterday's skirmish." Mason crossed his arms with a solemn look on his face. 

"Yeah, me too..." Carrie nodded.

Yesterday after Spike left the trench in anger and humiliation, we haven't seen him for the whole day. I wonder if Twilight and Jamie knows.

"Ugh, you guys still talking about that crap?" We all turned to see Jack...in his underwear, and it looked like they haven't been washed for weeks as I immediately covered my ears in embarrassment and a massive blush on my face while Ren and Kodi jaw-dropped on that while Mason covered his sister's eyes the moment he saw him entered. "What? Never seen a guy without his pants?"

"We have!" I exclaimed. "Put some pants on Jack! You're gonna make us hurl!"

"Y-yeah...same here." Ren nodded, his face nearly turning green.

"Oh what? You guys are just wimps." Jack scoffed as I lowered my hands down and saw Jack scratching them, causing me to look away in disgust. You know, I'm starting to agree with Rarity about his manners. I know that he's a biker, but still! That's just gross!

"Ugh, ever heard of manners?" We looked over to see Rantaro exiting out of the elevator with a slightly annoyed look on his face. "Seriously, you make me think you were raised by pigs."

"Shut it bastard!" Jack scowled. "Look, I'm gonna go and change my clothes, alright?!"

"Thank goodness!" I exclaimed in blessing as I heard the elevator turned on and uncovered my eyes to see Jack was gone. "Phew, I would've thought that he was gonna eat in his dirty underwear all day..."

"And I am gonna have nightmares of witnessing that." Ren sighed, his eyes still widened in shock before shaking his head with a nervous grin. "Well...with that out of the way, why not we go check up on Spike to check up to see if he's feeling any better?"

"That we can agree." Mason nodded with a smile before uncovering his sister's eyes, who only blinked in confusion.

"Umm...what just happened?" Carrie asked curiously, causing some of us to look at each other in worried and fear.

"Don't bother asking kid, that's something you're not ever gonna find out." Rantaro answered, much to our relief. That memory will always messed up my eyes for good...



Later
"So what do you think Spike is doing back at the library?" Kodi wondered.

"Don't know, probably sulking while eating some ice cream." We all gave Ren some looks, which he noticed. "What? I've seen some characters on movies, TV shows, and shorts do that whenever they feel depress.

"...Okay?" Mason sighed while I snickered at that. Wow, Ren really knows how to do stuff like that. Makes sense for an average kid who plays video games and watches anime all day and all night.

"Well Spike did some ice cream just the other day during that whole time-traveling problem Twilight and Jamie faced." Kodi pointed out. Ren made a gesture with a smirk plastered on his face, causing some of us to smile and shake our heads from that.

"Ha! That's something I would do if I ever felt depressed!" Jack barked up a laugh, causing the rest of us to laugh as well.

Sooner or later, we arrived to the place and before Ren could open the door, it slammed opened by none other by Spike carrying a bag with a stick over by his shoulder.

"Spike?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"What's up with that bag?" Carrie asked, tilting her head in confusion.

"Spikey-wikey! Don't go!" Rarity soon charging out of the door with a frightened look on her face. "This is a terrible idea!"

"Sorry Rarity, but I have to..." Wait what?!

"Spike, what's going on?" Mason questioned suspiciously.

"I'm just going off..." Spike replied, walking past us with a sad yet determined look on his face. 

"Off? Are you running away?!" Mason asked in surprise, shocking us all as well.

"No, I'm not running away!" Spike exclaimed before sighing. "I just need...time alone."

"Oh god." Rantaro rolled his eyes. "I had a feeling something like this might happen."

"Jeez, you think?" Rainbow asked, flying out of the library with an upset look on her face.

"Wait Spike!" Ren exclaimed, feeling shocked by what Spike was planning. "Why are you leaving?! I know the girls wouldn't mean that stuff but-"

"No Ren! This is the only way and it's not like I'm running away for good. I just need some aspiration..." Spike assured.

"Aspiration?" Carrie asked.

"In other words, to achieve something." Mason stated.

"So I take it you're going to that dragon migration, huh?" Rantaro guessed, which he nodded until he noticed Jamie and Twilight coming out with concern and worried looks on his faces.

"I-I'm afraid so." Jamie answered, glancing away nervously.

"He's doing there in order to find aspiration and find out his true calling." Twilight explained. "Late last night, we woke up and decided to look through my books for anything about dragons but..."

"You couldn't find anything?" Rantaro asked.

"Yeah...just like Twilight said that not that many ponies ever researched dragons due to how scary they are." Jamie explained sadly.

"Which is why I have to go on this quest of self-discovery!" Spike said in a dramatic pose. 

"But Spike, you don't have to do this." I said with concern.

"Yeah! You're our best friend!" Carrie exclaimed. "You can't!"

"I have to! I need to find out what it means to be a dragon and that's only gonna work if I spend time among them!" Spike stated in a serious look.

"Spike, that's crazy!" Ren exclaimed.

"Yeah! What if something happened to you?!" Kodi added, feeling like it's a bad idea. 

"I have to agree." Mason agreed. "You have to understand that this is quite a bad idea."

"Hell yeah!" Jack exclaimed. "Are you frigging serious?! 

"I've made up my mind you guys!" Spike shouted before sighing sadly and said "I'm sorry but I have to do...goodbye for now..."

"Spike..." I muttered in sadness as we watched him go off towards the distance while we felt disappointed.

"Damn..." Jack muttered in shock. "That Spike dragon really is a tough guy, huh?"

"Yeah, I've never seen Spike this angry and dedicated before." I nodded in agreement. "But...what are we gonna do?"

"Well we can't just let him go off by himself." Ren said, forming a serious look. "We have to follow him!"

"That's a good idea!" Twilight beamed at that idea.

"Y-yeah...it might be a good idea." Jamie nodded meekly. "While we're out on it, we should also let S-Spike do this."

"Wait what?" Mason asked in shock.

"W-well maybe he should do it. You know...it's his decision and we can't stop h-him." Jamie twiddled his fingers with a nervous look.

"Are you frigging serious?!" Jack exclaimed in anger, causing Jamie to shivered in fear while still standing.

"No wait! Jamie might be onto something!" Twilight insisted, much to our confusion. "For all his life, Spike never knew so much about his own kind nor about his family. I raised him myself the day he hatched during my entrance exam and dreamed so much of studying him and I promised him that one day that I'll reunite him with his family, and if this will be the only way to learn so much about himself then I won't stop him."

"So we won't stop him?! Is that you're saying?!" I demanded.

"Well technically no." Twilight shook her head, much to our confusion. "Because we'll follow right after him. That's why Rarity is planning on making an outfit on chasing after them."

"Let me guess: You're gonna dress ourselves as dragons eh?" Rantaro guessed.

"W-well...that is the plan." Jamie nodded with a soft smile. "After all, how else are we gonna blend in when we try and go after Spike while avoiding the other d-dragons?"

"Well I sure hope that'll work..." I sighed before looking over at where Spike was last seen. I feel so bad for him...I can sorta understand what it feels like having self-doubts of herself ever since my mother passed away...I wished I could stay by his side as a dragon. That way I can try and help him, and so can the others.....

"AH!" What the?! What's going on? "Ooh...my head...."

"Kaede, what's wrong?" Mason asked as I fell down to my knees and fall down, holding onto my head before letting darkness consume, but not before hearing some of the others screaming. I don't get it...what's going on?



"Kaede...Kaede....Kaede!"

Ooh....what just happened? Last thing I remember was falling unconscious and hitting the ground like I got knocked out by some force or something. 

"K-Kaede?...Is that you?" Huh? I slowly began to open my eyes to see the horrified looks of Rainbow Dash, Kodiak, Rarity, Jamie and Twilight looking at us with shock while Rantaro looked at us like he was unfazed by this.

"What are you guys talking about? I'm-" I stopped myself at mid-sentence upon noticing something wrong with my arm. It was...filled with scales. I-I don't understand, why? "Umm...mirror someone please?"

"Allow me...Kaede darling." Rarity pulled out a mirror from out of nowhere and showed it to me as I looked out an ear-curling scream. I-I...was a...dragon! No serious, I was! Apparently, my whole body was covered in the same scales as Spike, except for the spiky spines of his, but all I got was smooth spines that seemed to form my hairstyle and I didn't wear my sweater. I looked similar to Spike, except my scales were velvet color and my underbelly was creamy white and my smooth spikes were tainted pink.

"W-what...happened to me?!" I asked in shock. 

"W-we don't know! Honest!" Jamie exclaimed. "W-we just saw this bright light emerging from you and the other four transformed into that!" 

"Huh? The others?" I questioned before turning to where I last saw Ren, Mason, Carrie, and Jack, and to my shock, they were turned into dragons as well. "G-Guys!"

"Uhh...what just happened?" Ren muttered, rubbing his aching head. "My head is spinning..."

"It's like someone knocked the living daylights out of me..." Jack growled before he and the others opened their eyes and noticed the others looking at them with shock before gazing at me, slowly turning surprised and shocked by that.

"W-what the hell?!" Jack exclaimed.

"K-Kaede!" Mason widened his eyes in shock. "W-why are you....are you..."

"I know! I've been transformed! Even I was shocked!" I stated before pointing at them and exclaimed "And so are you guys!"

"Wait what?!?" One looked at themselves caused them to widened their eyes in shock. "N-no way!" Ren exclaimed in shock. "How did this happened?!"

"This is...impossible..." Mason felt shocked upon seeing himself as a slim black dragon as his normal height and his underbelly were light tan, but his spikes were spiny and red. 

"Whoa...no frigging way." Ren said in awe as he looked at himself, seeing his scales were blue like his eye color while his underbelly was orange like his spikes, and a hairstyle from his spikes, along with his ahoge on his head made from a little spike, for the scales they were pointy and his body was the same size as his normal self and was quite skinny too. "This is so freaky!"

"Yeah!" Carrie agreed, gazing at her new form. She was quite small, at the same height as Spike's. Her scales and underbelly were magenta pink while her spikes were light pink with little red shaped hearts on each of her cheeks. "This is so amazing!"

"What the fudge?" Jack looked himself, and of course his new form keeps his fat self, but overall, he was still the same height as Mason. His scales were light yellow and spikes were colored grayish white, along with his bulging underbelly. The spikes on his head formed the same ruffled dirty hairstyle of his and the rest of us were all naked, but it seemed that we didn't mind at the moment. 

I still can't believe that we've been transformed into dragons, and we even got wings on our back. Well except Carrie...

I guess that she's too young to have wings, right?

Soon, Jack glared at Jamie, Rantaro, and the rest of the ponies as he yelled "What the hell did ya do to us?!"

"We don't know! We just saw this happened right in front of us!" Twilight exclaimed.

"But wow, you guys don't really look that different in those forms." Rantaro commented.

"We don't?" Ren asked in confusion.

"W-well..." Jamie spoke up, clutching his notebook hard and felt nervous at gaining attention before speaking up and said "While those forms are quite different, y-you guys still look like the same as your regular selves. The spikes on your heads resembles your hairstyles."

We all looked at each other, seeing how right Jamie was.

"...You make a valid point." Mason sighed.

"No way! You guys get to transformed into dragons?!" Rainbow gasped. "How awesome is this?!" 

"Not for me! Change us back!" Jack demanded.

"Well I'm certain I can try." Twilight stepped forward before her horn started glowing before shooting a magic beam at us, forcing us to stay still as we embraced it...until five seconds later, we still remained in these dragon forms. "What?! It didn't work! But how?!"

"Are you saying you can reverse the effects on them?!" Kodi gaped.

"I'm afraid so!" Twilight shook her head. "I just don't understand why it didn't work!"

"I-I know! I've study about a spell that can transform ponies into dragons from the ancient archives!" Jamie exclaimed in shock as he traversed through his notebook in slight panic. "I even copied down the notes for it! I-I just don't know what's happening anymore!"

"So you can't change us back?" Carrie asked.

"Fudge!" Jack cursed himself before turning to Rarity and asked "Hey loon! Why can't ya change us back?! Aren't ya a frigging unicorn or whatever?"

"I am." Rarity narrowed her eyes at Jack still calling her that nickname before she continued "But I'm not much of a talented spell chanter than Twilight here. So I'm afraid not."

"Now that you mention it, the only spells I've seen you do were lifting objects into the air for when making and designing the dresses with me, along with that gem-finding spell of yours." I pointed out, remembering much about her magic.

"Yes...quite true Kaede darling." Kaede nodded.

"Well you're pretty much frigging useless." Jack scoffed, ignoring the little protest Rarity shouted.

"I don't know, I think it looks kinda cute on me." Carrie giggled, gazing at her new body. "Say, I wonder if we can fly."

Carrie decided to do it by running around and jumped, before falling on her stomach. She looks behind her and realized that she doesn't got any wings. 

"Oooh..." Carrie groaned while Mason helped her up with a soft smile.

"Are you alright Carrie?" Mason asked in worried.

"Y-yeah...I think so. Thanks big brother." Carrie softly smiled at her older brother while Ren took out his Hacking Gun and looked at it for a while.

"Oh man, it feels kinda weird holding the Hacking Gun while being a dragon. I gotta say that it's pretty cool." Ren grinned in amazement. 

"Are you sure Ren?" Kodi asked, stepping forward to gaze at his new form, along with Rosy inspecting me curiously. "You're not that much bothered by it."

"Nah! This is quite awesome being a dragon! A little shocking, but still awesome!" Ren toothily grinned. "Though I wouldn't mind transforming into a Night Fury, or maybe a Monstrous Nightmare, or better yet, a Deadly Nadder?!"

"I have no clue what kind of dragons are they." Twilight said deadpanned.

"Well you haven't seen any of the HTTYD Franchise yet!" Ren replied, feeling offended by it.

"A-Anyway...can we please focus on the task on hand or hoof?" Jamie timidly asked. "W-while we may not soon figure out w-what's going on with your bodies, w-we should probably go back focusing on the main topic."

"Huh? Do you mean Spike?" I asked curiously.

"Duh, that's what we were talking about a while ago." Rantaro replied. 

"Rantaro!" Twilight exclaimed, giving him a scolded look.

"What? I'm just stating the truth." He led out a shrug, not bothered by what he said. "But overall, I say go after him and maybe and hopefully he'll come back, which he will not."

"And what makes you say that he won't?" Rainbow asked, crossing her hooves with a hard glare towards the broker.

"I'm just saying that he seemed pretty dedicated and like Twilight said, this is for his own good." Rantaro replied before he began to walk off much to our surprise.

"Wait! Aren't you gonna help us?!" Ren called, but simply got a wave from him as he just continued to walk away like it was nothing. Unbelievable...he was totally unfazed by that. Hmm...come to think of it, he was rarely unfazed by almost anything that comes around Equestria. It's like he's hiding away his emotions so easily.

"Well there he goes..." Rarity glared before letting out a 'HMPH' sound before asking "So what are we gonna do with all of you now?"

"I wonder that too Rarity." Mason sighed, crossing his arms while he twirled his bamboo pole a while. "While we do not know what was the cause of our transformation, we must hurry to Spike."

"Yeah, maybe these new bods might give us some recon, eh?" Ren nudged Jack, who gave him a deadpanned glance and asked "What?"

"You know, maybe with these new bodies, we can like blend in with the crowd and watch over him. Heck, I don't think he'll even recognize us, am I right?" Ren smiled while we felt unsure about this.

"Well...I guess I can give it a try." Carrie replied, much to our shock. "I mean, I look kinda cute in this form, and so does you all."

"C-cute?" Jack exclaimed in shock before snarling "I ain't frigging cute!"

"Well you are in that chubby dragon form of yours fatty." Rainbow laughed, ignoring the angry glare he was giving her.

"Well...Ren does make a good point on using these 'forms' to blend in with the rest of the dragons." Mason sighed. "Well...I just don't know."

"Well, why not?" I spoke up with a soft smile and said "Maybe we could possibly use these forms to protect Spike from some trouble. It's like he won't know what hit him. So I'm with Ren on this one."

"Well you're the only one left Mason darling." Rarity said with a smirk while Mason gaze upon our determined looks, causing him to shake his head in annoyance while pinching the bridge of his...uhh...nostrils, maybe? 

"I guess so, so why not?" Mason sighed.

"Alright Mason!" Ren chuckled.

"Way to join the team big brother!" Carrie smiled brightly.

"W-well...we should head over to the northwest. That's where the dragons went for their Dragon Migration once a generation." Jamie said, taking out a piece of paper with direction in it before handing it to Ren. "H-here, you might need it. I already copied it down in my notebook so it should be useful for you guys to get there."

"Thanks James!" Ren thanked with a smile on his face while the rest of us nodded.

"Good, now we'll go get the costumes while you guys go on ahead." Twilight insisted.

"And remember, don't pull any punches yet in case Spike's gets hurt." Rainbow added, flying off towards Carousel Boutique.

"And Mason..." Rarity gave Mason a worried look and asked "If anything, and I mean anything happened to my dear Spikey-wikey..." She crossed her brows angrily and said "Make sure that they shall feel my wrath!"

With that, she dropped that look on her face and replaced it with a smile before walking off, along with Twilight and Jamie while Kodi stayed behind. The rest of us blinked in shock and surprise by what Rarity said.

"...What the hell was that for?" Jack asked bluntly.

"She was just saying that out of worried for Spike, that's all." Mason replied. "Spike should be fine and I'm sure we won't assist him unless its necessary." Mason glances down with a worried look and continued "But I can understand Rarity's anger, if something were to happened to Carrie, I would never forgive myself."

"Don't worry big brother, I'll be fine!" Carrie smiled. "Besides, I know that you would never fail to protect me, like you did for Elena and Rarity!"

Mason glanced away with a blush through his scarf and muttered "P-Please stop...you're embarrassing me..."

"But I'm your little sister, so of course I'll keep annoying you. That's my job." Carrie smiled, causing Ren to laugh at that.

"She's got you there dude." Ren chuckled, alongside with me, Kodi, and Jack while Mason gave us a deadpanned glare.

"Jeez...thanks a lot for the support you guys." Well sorry! It's just so true yet funny!

"Well anyway..." Kodi cleared his throat before looking at us with a worried look. "I wished I could come with you guys..."

"Don't worry Kodiak, you'll be fine." Ren assured, petting him on the head. "After all, maybe you should man the fort for us while we're gone."

"R-really?" Kodi asked incredulous while I scratched Rosy underneath the chin, who wasn't afraid of me upon seeing who I really was.

"Well why not?" I suggested with a smile before picking up Rosy and walking over to Kodiak. "I mean, you could spend some more time with Rosy, you know."

"Meow!" Rosy purred before leaping on top of Kodi's head and nuzzled him, causing Kodiak to laugh a bit.

"Okay, I see your point. Well I hope you guys will do alright. Still, I'm gonna miss you. Especially you Ren." Kodi whimpered a bit before nuzzling his friend while Ren smiled at him before bending over to his height and said "Relax boy, I'll be fine. Just watched over the home-ship along with the other pets and we'll come back till Spike finishes up his dragon quest. I promise."

"Pinkie promise?" He asked suspiciously, causing Ren to sigh before doing the whole 'Pinkie Pie Promise' thing.

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Ren stated, doing the gestures for the little Pinkie Pie Promise, causing the two of them to laugh out loud.

"Okay, I'll watch over the home-ship for ya guys Ren!" Kodi grinned while Rosy nodded in agreement.

"Oh, and just watch over Jo Jo for me, will ya? He should be sleeping in my couch up in my room." Jack said, rubbing his nose a bit.

"Along with Nate and Maddy. I left them in my room to enjoy their sleep since they deserved some more rest." Mason added. 

"You left your squirrels up in your room?" I asked curiously. Wow, I rarely seen those two squirrels of his ever coming out of his scarf.

"They were sleeping peacefully, so I didn't want to wake them up, that's all." Mason replied.

"Well okay you guys! I'm on the case!" Kodi saluted with his paw before he began to running off, heading back to the home-ship with Rosy by his side. "Good luck on your journey and tell Spike I said hi when you have the chance!"

"Okay! See ya guys!" Ren waved goodbye to them before turning back to us and asked "So...you all ready?"

"Yeah sure, but one thing..." Jack turned to him with a glare and asked "How the hell are we gonna get there? That spiny little dragon probably went too far ahead of us."

"Well not with that attitude you don't!" Ren stated with a smirk on his face. "We just need to find a way how we can get there quickly as possible!"

"We have wings, remember?" Mason reminded us, which made us look at our own wings and realized that he was right. 

"Well...shouldn't be too hard to fly right?" I asked with a light chuckle. I mean, it shouldn't that hard, right? I've seen Ren fly around with his hoverboard all the time, along with Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and the other Pegasi who lives here in Ponyville flying around in the blue skies. So it shouldn't too difficult right?



Later
"I had to open my mouth...." The moment we tried to fly, we had some uncontrollable through the skies, though at the same time we were getting the hang of it. But since Carrie doesn't have any wings, Mason offered to carry her on his back and he's been doing some difficulty handling on flying and carrying his sister. Man, these forms are just questionable and I still don't understand why are we like this in the first place.

“Does anyone know how to fly?!” Jack exclaimed, feeling nausea. “And…does anybody got a barf bag?”

“Yeah, I’m kinda not getting used to these wings on my back!” Ren exclaimed, trying his best to maneuver his fly. “Man, it looked so easy for those dragons, including the ones from the movies!”

“Well we’ll get used it when we practice flying!” I called back before feeling nausea on my stomach. “Ooh…I’m starting to agree on Jack about that barf bag thing.”

“Look! I see it!” Carrie pointed over to the sky, seeing a giant volcano-like region just up ahead. Ren looked over at the map and said “Yep, that’s the place! Alright everyone, prepare for a landing!” 

“And how do you propose we could land?” Mason questioned, causing Ren to widened his eyes upon realizing that it’s gonna be very difficult to land.

“Oh…no….” He muttered before we started diving down and fell onto a lava crater. 

“AHHHH!” I screamed in shock. “It burns! It burns!”

“Whaaaa! My face!” Ren screamed before the rest of us looked at each other and saw that we weren’t…burning at all. “Wait…my face is fine.”

“And it’s not even hot at all.” Carrie added, touching the lava with her finger.

“I guess being a dragon makes you immune to lava heat and gas what with all of these scales in our bodies.” Mason pointed out.

“Ugh…whatever.” Jack wiped lava off his face before saying “Glad that we aren’t burning alive.”

“Yeah…I guess the many advantages a dragon ever has.” Ren chuckled before we exited out of the pool. We all looked at ourselves and saw no burn marks on our bodies, even when Ren brought out his Hacking Gun out of nowhere, it was still fine. “Huh…it’s still okay…Neat!”

“So…where are we anyway?” Carrie asked curiously as we all looked around, seeing so many volcanoes and lava craters around here. 

“Like Ren said, we’re somewhere around this volcanic area.” Mason replied. “Just like the map and Jamie stated that this place is where the dragons go to during their migration.”

“Yeah, it even says it right here.” Ren took out the map, but instead of a full-fledged map that showed us directions, it was a torched up piece of paper before it got turned into ashes. “Ooh…this can’t be good.”
“Jeez, you think? Now we’re frigging lost in the middle of nowhere!” Jack exclaimed.

“Calm down Jack.” I assured. “Remember, Twilight, Jamie, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash are coming here with a map of theirs so once we bumped into them, then we’ll find a way back home.”

Jack let out a scoff before saying “Fine…but I just hope we don’t fly around like total idiots again.”

“We’ll get the hang of it, trust me.” Ren said with a soft smile. 

“Frigging whatever…” Jack snorted, letting some fire out of it which made us startled by it.

“Whoa…” I muttered in surprise and awe. “I didn’t know we could that!”

“Well we are dragons.” Mason reminded us.

“Ooh! I wonder if I can spew out fire too!” Carrie said, filled with enthusiasm before taking a deep breath and only coughed up some green flames. “Ooh…I guess with only a little power.”

“Don’t worry Carrie, I’m sure you’ll get the hang of it.” Mason ruffled her spikes, causing Carrie to smile softly at her brother while me and Ren smiled at them and Jack crossing his arms, but hidden a smirk on his face. It’s nice seeing these two get along so well…I sorta envy them because they have such a nice bond while my older sisters are just always asking me to do things because they see me differently than them. It makes me wonder…why? 

“Alright, teenage dragons! Now that’s more my speed! And size!” Huh? Was that…Spike? I looked around before noticing a familiar purple baby dragon walking towards a group of dragons that seemed to like like they were young adults than teenagers. Oh man, they look kinda scary.

“Umm guys?” I called, gaining the other’s attention. “I think I found Spike.”

“Cool, where?” Ren asked with a smile. I pointed over behind me as the others looked over and saw Spike talking with some of the teenage dragons. We all hid behind some rocks as we heard Spike introducing himself to the other dragons, interrupting their conversation.

“Um, excuse me? Uh, hi. I’m Spike.” Spike smiled softly, while some of the dragons gave him blank looks until one of them asked “You sure your name is Spike and not Shrimp?!”

That caused all the dragons to laugh while Spike narrowed his eyes in anger before exclaiming “No, it’s Spike! I’m not, I mean, I’m sure about that-”

“You look more like Peewee to me.” One of the smaller teenage dragons said, causing another laughter while the rest of us glared angrily at the dragons.

“They sure aren’t nice.” I scowled.

“Yeah, Spike was just being nice, that’s all.” Carrie added, feeling worried for him.

“They will regret for making fun of him.” Mason grabbed the tip of his bamboo pole, glaring at the dragon gang. Soon, a big red dragon stepped up with a cocky look on his face.

“Hey guys, come on, seriously. Leave him alone or he might fly away.” Oh, well that’s nice to see one dragon getting along and defending Spike. Unfortunately, he picked up Spike with a smirk on his face and said “That is, uh, if he had any wings!”

And I spoke too soon…

“Wow, those dragons aren’t exactly the helpful and nice types here, eh?” Ren muttered, sweat-dropping a little.

“Nope, but I gotta say, they’re my kinda guys.” Jack grinned, causing us to give him deadpanned looks.

“Are you serious?” We all asked before looking back at Spike and the other dragons.

"You fly in on your mommy's back during the migration?" We looked back to see Spike twiddling his fingers nervously at the dragons and replied "Not exactly..."

"No, no , can't you see baby Spike just hatched? I bet he still sucks his claw at night!" One of the older dragons stated with a smirk.

"No! I haven't sucked my claw in months!" Spike replied angrily, causing the dragons to laugh.

"Well, if you weren't just hatched, how come we haven't seen you around before?" The red dragon asked suspiciously.

"Oh, well, you see, I live in Ponyville and-"

"Hahahaha!" He laughed before saying "Ponyville? That explains it! I knew there was something vaguely pony-ish about you! If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were part pony!"

"Who, me?" Spike asked in shock before shaking his head and said "No no! I'm not part pony! I'm all dragon, see? Raar!"

We all sweat-dropped by Spike's attempt to make a roar while the red dragon gave out a small smirk before laughing "Or maybe you're a pony in a dragon costume!"

That caused the others to laugh alongside with him.

"A pony in a dragon costume...!" One of the dragons stated, nudging one peculiar one. I took a good look at it and felt confused upon seeing it. Huh, weird...that one looks like too weird to be a dragon.

"Aheh...yeah...hilarious." Huh? That was quite weird...I felt as though that voice sounded very familiar.

"Nnh...!" Spike growled angrily. "I am a real dragon!"

"Oh, yeah? Prove it." The red dragon snarled, causing Spike to feel tense from him.

"Well...how?"

"By acting like one! Who's up for a little belching contest?" With that, the dragons let out a cheer before each one of them starting burping out fire out of their bodies until one of them burped out a large portion of fire through Spike and the other dragons, though it didn't affect them since their scales protected them from the heat. The large brown dragon sat down in exhaustion from spouting out that much fire while the rest of us looked upon seeing that belching competition. 

"Uhh..." We all looked at each other with blank and confused looks as I asked "So...what do you guys think of them so far?"

"Well I know one thing..." Ren rubbed his cheek bashfully before he continued "These dragons don't act as nice as Spike nor the dragons from the HTTYD Franchise."

"First of all, grow up." Mason sighed. "Second of all, I have to agree. These dragons are quite acting quite disgusting with their manners. More than Jack."

"Ha! Say what ya frigging want! These guys are the type I wanna hang!" Jack grinned. "I mean, what with all the burping out fire and junk, I bet they do many dangerous stuff!"

"Are you serious?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"Hell yeah! So what?" Jack laughed while we gave him blank looks.

"But...what if they did something dangerous that you can't do?" Carrie asked curiously.

"...W-well...I don't know." Typical....

"You think you can beat that, Peewee?" The red dragon asked curiously. Spike gave out a nervous look before replacing it with determination as he tried to burp like them, but instead, he burped out a scroll.

"Huh?" The teenage dragons asked before picking up the letter and reading it over.

"From the desk of Princess Celestia. Dear Spike, please te-" The red dragon stopped himself before letting out a smirk and chuckle. "Ha! Get this, guys! Spike's pen pals with a namby-pamby-pony princess!"

That caused the other dragons to laugh while the big red dragon crumbled the scroll up into a ball before throwing it into a nearby lava crater, burning the letter up while the rest of us glared at him, except for Jack as he let out some chuckles.

"Ha ha! These guys know how to tell a joke! Namby-pamby!" Jack toothily grinned.

"Seriously?" Ren asked in shock. "I mean, you haven't even met her."

"So?" Ren face-palmed himself, unable to comprehend on Jack's saying.

"Well we know for sure that these dragons don't seem to respect Princess Celestia." Mason crossed his arms with a stern look on his face.

"Yeah! How could they?" Carrie asked.

"Don't know, but we have to do something or else they'll do something to hurt Spike." I said, which Ren nodded and said "Good idea! Let's go!"

We soon got out of our hiding places and walked over to see the dragons still laughing until I cleared my throat, gaining their attention, along with Spike. 

"Hi." I waved my...uhh...claw at them. "Umm...we're new around here and we thought we could ask you guys on what's happening?"

"What's happening?" The red dragon laughed. "Nothing except making fun of this wimp for being friends with some namby-pamby ponies!"

"And what's wrong with that?" Mason questioned, earning confused looks on them. "We are sorry, but we're just curious to know why."

"Yeah, I thought ponies were nice and friendly guys." Carrie added.

"Pfft! Yeah right!" A small chubby purple dragon scoffed with a smirk on his face. "They're just so lame what with their 'friendly ways' or how 'sensitive and cowardly' they are."

"I know right? So stupid." Jack grinned, causing us to glance at him with annoyance. "Those guys gotta be so scared of almost everything, am I right?"

"...Yeah." Ren nodded with a nervous chuckle until the big red dragon walked over and eyed at us for a moment. "Umm...is there something wrong?"

"Yeah...how come we've never seen you guys before?" He questioned, causing us to feel tense about it.

"W-well..." Ren glanced away, sweat-dropping a little until I spoke up and said "We're somewhere far off from the region of Equestria. So that's why we're different. We're just traveling around the places on our own right at the moment until we saw this place and we were just curious upon seeing these dragons here!"

"Really? You don't say?" He asked before chuckling. "Ha! Traveling across Equestria, what a weird bunch of dragons. You four are quite curious looking, and seemed pretty cool looking than this Spike pony dragon." 

Spike slumped his head with a sad look on his face until Ren stepped up and said "Well, maybe you could give him a chance. I mean, just because he's small doesn't mean that he's not capable of handle anything."

"Yeah! What he said!" Carrie agreed, causing Spike to softly smiled at that.

"Wow...thanks I guess." Spike rubbed his head bashfully.

"Bah! I don't know, he's too small and wimpy to be a real dragon." The red dragon scoffed before turning his eye towards me as he slowly began to smirk. Huh? What is he doing? "But you on other hand is quite beautiful."

"Uhh...what?" I asked in confusion.

"You know what I mean? You've gotta be the prettiest dragon I've ever seen before." Oh no...please don't tell me where this was going. "You know, why not ditch your loser friends and hang out with me? Names Garble by the way."

Ooh god....I let out a sigh of exasperation before walking back away from him before he had the chance to wrap his arm around me.

"Well...thanks for the compliment." I chuckled with a nervous smile and said "But I prefer being friends, not on what you were implying, so sorry Garble."

The big red dragon known as Garble let out a grumble of frustration before clearing his throat and said "Y-yeah...whatever babe."

I rather not be called 'babe' thank you very much.

"But anyway, we're just new." Mason stated with a serious look on his face. "We're just over on a little break for the Dragon Migration. We traveled a lot, but rest assured that we live...somewhere far away."

"Yeah! So far off that you don't know anything where we live!" Carrie added with a soft grin while she held her brother's claws while the others either chuckled or rolled their eyes.

"Yeah...sure..." A medium sized orange sized dragon rolled his eyes.

"Besides that, looks like we got some newbies here. Guess Spike here isn't the only weak dragon around here." Garble laughed.

"Hey...that was quite uncalled for." Ren rubbed his spikes bashfully with a nervous look. 

"Shut it. Let me handle it..." Jack pushed me and Ren aside before crossing his arms with a serious look on his face. "Hey, why not you piss yourself off?"

"Excuse me?!" Garble exclaimed in anger. "Who do you think you are to just talk to me like that?!"

"I'm talking to some fire-breathing lizard, that's all." Jack scoffed with a smirk on his face. "Besides, you don't know for sure if this 'shrimp'..." He pointed over to Spike, who felt surprised on seeing him defend a dragon that he barely noticed. "Can be useless? I say that he's more useful than you."

"Really?" Garble smirked before saying "Well...let's see if you and shrimp here are tough in a tail wrestling contest."

"Wait what?" Jack asked, a little startled upon hearing that.

"Come on, let's see if you two are strong to handle it. Unless you're chicken..." Jack growled at Garble's comment before smirking and said "I gotta say, I like your attitude. Alright, we'll do it."

"Yeah!" Spike agreed before turning to him and said "I don't know who you are, but I gotta say, thanks you guys for defending me."

"It is our pleasure." Mason nodded with a smile before glaring towards Garble and his gang. 

"Ha, you'll see how difficult it is. Come on you guys, let's take these guys over for some tail wrestling." Garble's gang let out a roar of approval before grabbing Spike and Jack, which was a mistake since do to his weight, causing them to feel over weighted by the sudden fattening of Jack. 

"If you guys are tough enough, then you can handle carrying me." Jack scoffed before they began slowly descending towards inside of the volcano. 

"Come on, you guys want to be proven that you're real dragons. Enter if you dare." Garble smirked with a sly smirk on his face before entering the place, leaving the rest of us alone outside.

"Are they serious?" I asked in shock. 

"Yeah, I mean 'tail wrestling'? Do we have to wrestle by using our tails?" Ren asked with a bewildered look on his face. "I don't even know how to use it."

"And so does Jack." Mason sighed, crossing his arms in frustration. "I should've known that his stubborn pride might've lead him to something stupid like that."

"You can say that again, Mason." Huh? 

"Exactly my point." Mason nodded before realizing that none of us said a thing. "Wait, how said that?"

"Right here!" What the? Oh! It's that dragon from earlier, the one peculiar dragon I mentioned. Hmm...wonder what's up with him/her? "I knew that you guys would arrive."

"Umm...who are you?" Ren asked curiously.

"And how do you know that we would arrive?" Carrie asked curiously.

"It's us!" The whole dragon uncovered itself, revealing to be our friends, Jamie, Twilight, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. "We told ya we'll arrive!" Rainbow grinned.

"Well it's about time." Mason said, crossing his arms. "We were wondering what was taking so long. Even in these forms, it feels...uncomfortable being in this strange body."

"Ooh Mason, that new form of yours makes me feel antsy about that as well." Rarity said. "But overall, I just hope we find the cure for each of your transformations."

"W-well...h-hopefully..." Jamie muttered, feeling concern on that possibility. "But anyway...we've came here in order to watch over Spike and make sure nothing h-happens to him. You guys just need to make sure he doesn't get hurt."

"Don't worry, we promise." Ren winked before taking out his Hacking Gun and handing it to Jamie. "Oh, and could you please make sure nothing happens with the Hacking Gun James? Don't wanna the other dragons see me with it and get suspicious."

"Oh!..O-Okay!" Jamie nodded before receiving the gun before he began to feel some heat coming out of it. "Ow! Ow! W-why is it so hot?"

"Uhh..it's a long story." Ren rubbed his spikes bashfully with a sheepish grin.

"Anyway, we should get moving." Mason said, glancing towards where Jack, Spike, and the others went off. "Or else we might draw suspicion from those dragons."

"I highly doubt those ruffians can suspect other dragons, especially for criticizing Spike for living in Ponyville." Rarity scoffed.

"And for destroying that letter!" Twilight pouted. "That could've been very important from Princess Celestia!"

"Don't worry Twilight, I'm sure you'll get another one." I assured. 

"Yeah! I mean, the princes is always one step ahead of you, right?" Carrie added, causing Twilight to smile softly at that.

"Thanks you guys..." Twilight replied.

"Though I can't believe they would c-criticize the princess like that." Jamie stated with a worried look. "I-I have never seen anyone say mean comments to her before."

"Yeah. I'm just worried on what they think about ponies." Ren said in concern. "Come on you guys, let's go."

"Okay." I nodded before seeing Twilight and the others placing the cover of their dragon costume back on, causing me to sweat-dropped a little. "By the way...what's up with the costume? It looks kinda weird just seeing it up close."

"Yeah, blame Rarity for making such a weird costume." Rainbow said through the costume.

"Excuse me?!" Rarity exclaimed in anger while the rest of us laughed. I had a feeling that the costume had a little dash of...Rarity in it, wouldn't you agree?...Okay, enough about jokes! Let's get this over with and see where this goes. 

"Can we go now?" I asked.

"R-right, let's go." Rarity replied before saying "Oh, and Mason?"

"Yes Rarity?" Mason asked with a raised brow.

"Please don't let Spikey-wikey get hurt by those brutes." Rarity begged, which Mason nodded until Carrie grabbed her brother's claws with a bright grin on her face.

"Come on everyone! Let's go big brother!" Carrie said, grabbing her brother's claws and said "Let's go see how Jack and Spike are gonna handle the others? Besides, you wanna impress Rarity, don't ya?!" 

"W-what?!" Mason and Rarity exclaimed, and I could've sworn that they were blushing in embarrassment.

"Come on! Let's go!" Carrie quickly pulled him and has him entered the volcano while the rest of us let out giggles before heading inside of the volcano, eager to see how this will play. 

"So do you think that Jack will protect Spike?" I asked in worried.

"Don't worry, I have faith in Jack so that I know he'll do great!" Ren assured as we kept looking around the place till we arrived and saw an unexpected seen.

"Ha! Take that!" We all soon bore witness Jack beating another dragon by using his tail as he barked up another laughter. 

"What the?" Ren asked in confusion.

"Oh man! You're so awesome Jack! You really are a tough dragon!" Garble exclaimed in joy.

"Thanks and you guys aren't so bad after all!" Jack toothily grinned before wrapping his left arm around Garble as the two laughed so loud. 

"...Are you guys seeing this?" Mason questioned, which the rest of us nodded. I don't believe it. So Jack's here just to fight these guys while being buddy-buddy's with them? Well I guess it makes sense since he's a tough biker gang and they're always so aggressive.

"Yeah...I never expected Jack to make good friends from these guys." Ren muttered in shock. 

"Tell me about it." I agreed before noticing Spike stepping up as Garble said "You know, you're tough for being fat. You are quite the dragon...uhh, what was your name?"

"Call me Jumbo. Jumbo the Dragon." Jumbo? What a weird name, but then again...we can't let Spike know its us. Just because it's us transformed into dragons doesn't mean we should reveal our names so open easily.

"Jumbo? Weird name for a dragon." Garble muttered before waving it off. "Nah, it's probably nothing. So Spike, let's see if you're a real tough dragon."

"Oh trust me, I'm ready!" Spike said, his tone filled with determination.

"Break a leg, kiddo. Trust me, you gotta stand tough against one of these guys." Jack grinned.

"Oh...thanks Jumbo!" Spike smiled softly. "At least I got somepony by my side and cheering me on."

"This is terrible!" Rarity whispered to us. "We can't afford Spikey-wikey to go through this! He'll end up hurt!"

"W-well true..." Jamie whispered back. "So we need someone t-to go over and tail-wrestle h-him or something..."

"Allow me." Mason said, stepping up and walked past his sister as she called "Go easy on him!"

"Yeah! You can do it!" Ren cheered, while the rest of us smiled over to see Mason taking up the plate.

Mason smiled back at us with a nod before looking back at the dragons with a serious look on his face and said "Please, allow me to go and challenge Spike to a tail wrestle!"

"Who's this weirdo?" Garble asked his pals about Mason.

"Don't know, but he looks pretty serious." The slim orange dragon replied with a shrug.

"Whatever." Garble rolled his eyes before turning back to Mason and asked "So how bout it? Who are you?"

"I am..." Mason closed his eyes and thought for a while before replying "Please just call me Burn."

"Burn? What a weak name." Mason twitched a bit while Spike snickered, along with Jack.

"Ha! Burn? That sounds something I would've come up with."

"Shut up Jack." Mason said through gritted teeth, ignoring the laughter coming out of the biker/dragon. "Now then, shall we tail wrestle?"

He turned to Spike, who stopped snickering and felt nervous just by seeing him.

"Y-yeah...let's go." Spike nodded as he and Mason got into their positions as their tails grabbed ahold of each other as Garble shouted "Ready? GO!"

Spike tried his best to throw back Mason, but even in that dragon form, Mason is still tough to beat. But he was doing this for Spike, also Rarity was watching and you all know how overprotective she is with Spike around. So Mason did a true friend would've done...purposefully lose the match. He lowered his strength down and with that, Spike knocked his tail out to the side, causing the dragons to let out roars of approval.

"Whoa...I didn't know that I had it in me to do that!" Spike said in amazement before exclaiming "Awesome!"

"You're welcome..." Mason smiled until Spike gave him a good look at his body before noticing the red scarf wrapped around his neck, causing him to gasp.

"What the?! Wait...is that-" Uh oh! I think he found us out already! Although, how come he didn't noticed the scarf around his neck till now?

"Nice going, little Spike! Maybe you are a dragon after all!" Garble complimented, patting Spike on the back with a toothy grin.

"U-Uh...yeah! Maybe I am!" Spike grinned nervously while the rest of us sighed in relief.

"Thank you Mason..." Rarity muttered, smiling over at the black dragon.

"Okay, so who's next? I'm ready to kick your butts into next month!" Jack said, feeling pumped up about beating someone else.

"Uhh...yeah..." Spike rubbed his head bashfully before saying "Listen, can I have a moment alone please?"

"Whatever! Just don't take so long!" Garble said as he went over to hang out with the rest of his pals. Soon, Spike turned back and looked at us with a shocked look and yelled "M-Mason...is that you?"

"...Took you quite a while to figure me out. I would've thought that you would realize that it was me already what with my scarf and bamboo pole." Mason said, feeling a bit bewildered by that fact. Spike blushed a bit and replied "H-hey come on! I was getting pounced at by those guys! What do you expect?"

"Good point there Spike." Ren chuckled nervously, causing Spike to turn to Ren himself before gasping "R-R-Ren?! Is that you as well?!"

"Yeah, sorry!" Ren rubbed his head bashfully with a sheepish grin while I sighed and softly smiled at Spike and said "And it's me, Kaede."

"Along with me!" Carrie added, waving towards him.

"Yeah, same here." Jack burped, causing Spike to look over us with an extremely shocked look on his face.

"I-I-I-I...! WHAT IN EQUESTRIA HAPPENED TO-" Mason immediately grabbed him and shushed him.

"Shh! Be quiet! We can't let the others hear you Spike!" Mason whispered, which Spike nodded slowly before he let him go. Spike shook his head before looking at us with a shocked look and asked "No way! Are you guys...dragons?!"

"Yeah, we don't know how it happened." Ren shrugged.

"What do you mean 'how it happened'?" I rubbed my cheek in embarrassment before replying "Well, the moment you left for the Dragon lands, we all fell unconscious and got transformed into dragons."

"No way...!" Spike exclaimed. "So wait...does that mean you guys followed me over to the Dragon Lands?!"

"Indeed." Mason sighed. "Twilight and Jamie were extremely worried about you."

"Well I don't need them." Spike scoffed, crossing his arms. "I told you before, I need to search out the answers for myself and that's final."

"We understand." I replied with a worried look. "But...we're just worried for you Spike. Besides, while we're still confused about these new appearances we have, I thought that we can go over to the Dragon Lands and helped you out in case any of the dragons..." Like Garble and his gang for example. "...harmed you or worse."

"Yeah dude." Ren nodded in agreement. "We aren't saying that we're taking you back, but we're gonna help you!"

"Help...me?" Spike asked in shock. "But are you sure about that? You guys would...do this for me?"

"Of course! We're friends!" Carrie giggled before pouting while she looked behind her. "Though I wished I had wings in this body."

"Oh trust me, sometimes I wished to fly as well." Spike shrugged. "But still though, it's hard to believe that you guys got transformed into dragons in the first place."

"Yeah well, we still haven't frigging figured out why we're like this in the first place!" Jack exclaimed. "Besides, we weren't really frigging planning on letting you know it was us, but I guess thanks to Mason we got no choice."

"Please forgive me." Mason sighed, twiddling with his scarf. "I guess maybe I should've left my scarf back home."

"Well even so, I kinda grew suspicious and curious upon seeing you guys just come out of nowhere like that. Including hearing those voices because I thought they sounded familiar to me." Spike chuckled with a smile on his face. "But still though, I guess it's nice for you guys to just come here and help me out."

"Hey, that's what friends do." Ren winked.

"Ha ha, good point." Spike smiled before looking around and suspiciously asked "Wait...If you guys are here in those weird bodies, then is Twilight here?"

"Uhh..." I quickly glanced towards the fake dragon disguise of theirs and I saw Twilight making a mouth statement that says 'Don't tell him!' towards me. 

"Nope! Not at all!" I shook my head with a smile on my face. "She's back home along with Jamie and they're respecting your privacy being here in the Dragon Lands so that you can learn how to be a true dragon."

Spike started to tear-up from all this before wiping a tear from his right eye and said "Wow, that's so nice of you guys to help me."

"Trust us, at first I was shocked by this whole transforming into a dragon thing, but now...I'm enjoying myself." Jack grinned. "But one question..." He turned around and showed us his bare bottom, causing me and Carrie to cover our eyes while the boys flinched. Well he's not wearing any pants and it wasn't that bad, but still! Doesn't he know any privacy at all?! "Does this form make my butt any bigger?"

"Ooh trust me, it's big alright." Ren stated, looking away until Jack turned back around and cracked his knuckles before saying "Whatever! I'm actually enjoying my stay here and I bet that this might get much more fun being here what with all these strong dragons around!"

"Of course you would enjoy your time here." Mason rolled his eyes before turning to Spike and said "But overall, I guess we should enjoy our time here while we help you fit in here so that you can clear the self-doubts in your mind to find the true answer of who you are."

"Wow, that was a bit poetic there Mason." I said with surprise while Mason crossed his arms in a huff, blushing a bit.

"Well still, thanks you guys and while I am still surprised upon seeing you guys totally different, I'm...kinda glad I have some friends of mine to help me out." Spike grinned. "Say, let's go over and see what the other dragons are doing."

"Hell yeah!" Jack yelled. "I'm already pumped up on seeing whatever crazy activity they have here!"

"Me too! I bet they're super fun!" Carrie laughed with a smile.

"As long as they aren't dangerous..." Mason muttered until he was nudged by Ren and said "Come on, it'll be fun. We even might learn what dragons do during their Dragon Migration."

Mason thought for a while before sighing "Well...I suppose you make a good point. Alright, let's go!"

"Yay!" Carrie cheered while the rest of us decided to see what else did this place have in stored for us. 

"Well alright!" I said, feeling pumped up about it. "Maybe their activities isn't that hard than tail-wrestling, right?"

"Yo Spike! Jumbo!" We all turned around to see Garble approaching us with cocky smirks on their faces. "Are you ready to have some more fun or what?"

"Hell yeah I am!" Jack patted his gut and flexed a bit.

"Yeah! I'm ready when you are!" Spike nodded, also flexing his muscles.

"Ooh, getting a little cocky. I like it." Garble grinned before turning to us until he noticed me, causing him to smile weirdly and said "Why hello there beautiful. Back for more?"

"Ehh...gross?" I muttered, feeling a bit tired just being around him. 

"Oh, don't be like that. You'll soon learned to love me..." He giggled crazily before asking "So...you never told me the rest of your names."

We all looked at each other until Ren stepped up and said "Well my name is Delta Rune, but just call me Rune."

"And I'm Torch!" Carrie introduced herself, giving her another alias for herself.

"O-oh! A-And...I'm...Blaze." I smiled softly, giving them a fake name to them. Well just because now that Spike knows who we are doesn't mean we shouldn't give them our real names. I just can't imagine what might happened if they found out that we're not actually dragons and found out that we're humans the whole time. Seeing these guys makes me feel scared of these guys...

"Ooh, Blaze!" Garble giggled. "A beautiful name for a beautiful dragoness." 

"R-right..." I muttered, backing away from a little while the others glared at the red dragon. 

"So anyway..." Ren stepped up with a curious look on his face and asked "We're just here to see how tough we are."

"Really? You think you're tough because of your slim body?" Garble laughed, causing Ren to glare at him before exclaiming "Oh don't worry, I can do this!"

"Well...Jumbo already beaten most of my gang, so why not challenge him?" He pointed over to a small dragon squeezed in between two older dragons.

"Okay! Bring it on!" Ren grinned, turning around and showing off his tail until he looked back and jaw-dropped upon seeing the small dragon's tail, which turned out to be extremely large and filled with spikes. "....Mother?"

Unfortunately, Ren's pleas didn't work as he was grabbed around the tail as Garble shouted "Ready? GO!"

And with that, Ren was launched into the air and slammed hard against the cliff, causing us to wince in pain while we watched Ren slowly fall off the mountain and landing with a loud 'THUD' on the ground. We all immediately ran towards him while Ren was on the ground, his eyes swirling unconsciously.

"Ooh..." Oh man, that's gotta leave a mark.

"Damn...good thing I didn't challenge him a tail-wrestling contest." Jack commented bluntly.

"Mm-hmm." Spike nodded.

"..Is he gonna be alright, big brother?" Carrie asked in worried while Mason sweat-dropped and replied "...Yeah, I think he'll be fine."

"Yeah..." I chuckled nervously with a sweat-drop. "Well...he was just unlucky, that's all. It can't get any worse, right?"



Later
"Why does the world hate me so much?" 

Unfortunately, I spoken too soon because after we met up with Garble and his gang and asked him to show us what other activities they're here in the Dragon Lands, we were taken towards a mountain filled with treasures and jewels. We all gaze at the giant stack of treasures with shocked looks, unable to speak on what we're witnessing.

"So you guys, you wanna prove that you're real dragons?" Garble asked with a smirk on his face. "Then go over and complete this test that we like to call..." Garble took a deep breath and shouted "King of the hoard!"

"Whoa...it sure is massive..." Ren muttered in shock.

"Real massive..." I nodded while staring at the mountain filled with jewels. Whoa, just look at those gems! This is amazing just looking at them!

"Yeah, you can say that again." Spike gulped until we noticed the other dragons racing towards the hoard and tried to take Garble down, but he made sure that none of tried to take his spot.

"Ooh...this looks intense." Carrie said until Mason comforted her with a smile and said "It's alright Carrie, we won't do it."

"Well you wimps can sit and mope while I go and win this damn match!" Jack laughed before racing over and climbing over the mountain of jewels. 

"Hey!" Spike yelled before chasing after him. "No one is gonna win but me! If I'm gonna be a real dragon, then I have to do this!"

"Wait for me!" I called.

"Yeah! We can't just leave ya behind!" Ren added before wincing in pain from the last impact.

"Ren, maybe you should sit this one out. I'll go after him. You guys stay here." I said before running towards the mountain filled with jewels as Ren tried to stop me, but it was too late as I started to climb up the mountain filled with jewels while I saw the disguised Twilight and co. kicking some dragons away to make sure that none of them tries to hurt Spike. I could've helped him but I still need to get used to being in this weird form, that's all and besides...I still don't know how to use my wings.

Sooner or later, I managed to caught up with Jack and Spike, who surprisingly didn't get overrun by these guys until they reached the top where Garble was fighting off another one of his gang before pushing him aside while Jack got up and sucker punched the dragon Garble was fighting off in the face, knocking him onto the jewel-filled mountain. 

"Ha! Thanks!" Garble grinned until Spike came underneath him and accidentally pushed him off of the mountain as well. Spike widened his eyes and looked around, realizing that he, Jack, and I are the only ones left up here. I soon came down and stretched my back and said "Wow...I guess it's just us three left."

"Woo-hoo!" Spike cheered. "King of the hoard!"

"Yeah!" Jack grinned before cracking his knuckles with a smirk on his face. "But there can only be one winner."

"Wait what?" Me and Spike asked in confusion. Before you know it, he stopped his feet so hard that the impact caused the jewels we were standing on to collapse while we fell down. Luckily, I started flapping my wings and grabbed ahold of Spike, who let out a sigh of relief.

"Phew...thanks for the save Kay." Spike thanked, which I nodded before we landed down as I glared at the big fat white dragon that did that to us. Jack laughed loudly while Garble and the other dragons roared, like they were cheering for Jack.

"Awesome! Now that's what a real dragon!" Garble laughed before turning over to me and Spike the moment I gently landed down on the ground. "And don't worry, you both gave it your best...only you Blaze." 

Ugh...does this guy like stalking me or what? I mean, I'm not beautiful, am I?

"Looks like this is another fail for you, little Spike. Can't wait to watch you fail at lava cannonball, too." Garble slyly grinned while Spike and I looked at each other, gulping in fear.

"Wait, lava cannonball?" Ren asked in confusion.

"Course some 'dragons' don't know it." Garble scoffed in a taunting way towards my friends. "Maybe that challenge could help toughen you out since neither you three tried to go through King of the Hoard."

"We had our reasons." Mason stated firmly, which Garble scoffed.

"Reasons, schmeasons. Now come on, let's go over to lava cannonball!" Garble grinned, causing us to feel tensed and a little afraid of what's gonna happen while Jack grinned and laughed loudly.

"Ah ha ha! That's gotta be a handful! Let's do it!"

Oh my god...I'm starting to feel worried for him. I understand Jack is trying to help Spike learn...but right now he's becoming way too addictive with these guys.



Later
Huh...doesn't seem too hard. This whole 'lava cannonball' thing was just diving into a pool of lava. Well we all learned from when we crashed land into this place, we discovered that our scales protect us from it. 

"Whoever makes the biggest lava splash is the ultimate dragon!" Garble announced before stepping back a little before charging and jumped over the cliff as he shouted "GERONIMO!"

He landed straight into the lava crater, creating a huge splash while Spike and Carrie backed away a little from the lava splashing onto them.

"Nuh!" Spike winced. 

"Big brother! I-I'm scared...!" Carrie exclaimed in worried and fear until Mason held her close and said "It's alright Carrie. Will it be alright if we jumped together?"

"O-Okay!" Carrie nodded with a soft smile while the disguised dragon backed away from this in fear.

"You guys aren't gonna come with us?" Ren asked in confusion.

"Sorry Ren, but this suit isn't technically lava proof." Rainbow stated.

"She's right. We're sorry but looks like you guys and Spike are on your own for now." Twilight said as she and the rest of her friends walked away from them. 

"Well...alright." Ren shrugged while I gave him a reassuring smile and said "Don't worry Ren, it looks quite easy. Like your diving into a pool."

"Yeah, you make a good point there." Ren smiled before noticing Jack stepping up as he scoffed "Pfft! Let a real dragon show ya how its done! You better be paying attention Spike if ya want to be a real dragon!"

Spike rubbed his arm bashfully, feeling scared of doing this. I can understand how he's feeling, I'm starting to grow scared too...

With that, Jack jumped out of the crater and made a huge splash into the lava pool, which caught onto us but we were fine due to the scales protecting us.

"He just never learns." Mason sighed before holding onto Carrie's claws and said "Are you ready sister?"

"Y-yes big brother." Carrie nodded as the two walked over to the cliff. They both took deep breaths before jumping straight towards the lava crater, nearly making a huge splash, but it wasn't enough.

Spike gulped and started sweating nervously as Ren walked over before saying "My turn! Cannonball!"

He jumped into the cliff, putting his hands over his knees before landing into the lava pool, creating a minor splash. He popped his head out of the lava pool and noticed the minor splash he made.

"Well...I was expecting a bigger splash." Oh Ren...Oh well, guess it's my turn. Before you know it, I noticed Spike started shivering in fear as I gave him a sympathetic look before noticing the other dragons jumping into the lava crater, with the last one creating such a huge splash that was quite an impressive feat, nearly similar to Jack's splash.

"Are you feeling okay Spike?" I asked in concern.

"O-of course! Never better!" Spike chuckled nervously. "I mean, w-w-what makes you think that I'm not feeling any better?" 

I bend down to Spike's height before hugging him and said "It's alright Spike, I'll be here by your side. Besides, you don't have to do this if you don't wanna do it. I mean, you don't have to prove anything."

Spike glanced away nervously before forming a determined look and said "No...I have to! I've been living with ponies since the day I was born, Kaede. I...I never thought about other dragons till now. That's why I'm gonna do this..."

I couldn't help but admire Spike's courage as I stood back on my own two feet and asked "Well...wanna do this together?"

Spike smiled back at me before saying "Thanks Kaede! Now let's do this!"

I nodded as the two of us walked over at the edge of the cliff, seeing how far it was. Oh man...I'm starting to have flashbacks of the first time I jumped off a high-dive. Spike started panting heavily, having his fears nearly overtake him until I grabbed his arm and gave him a comfortable smile.

"Don't worry...like I said, we'll do this together." Spike soon started to calm down before smiling and nodding back at me.

"HEY! WHAT'S TAKING SO LONG?!" We looked back down to see Jack yelling at us. "HURRY UP AND JUMP ALREADY! IF YOU ARE A REAL DRAGON SPIKE, THEN DO IT!"

"Yeah! What my pal here said!" Garble shouted in agreement. "What's the matter Spike? Too chickened?" Okay, that guy is starting to irritate me and I think the others can agree on that. "And don't worry babe, I know you'll make a good splash than Spike here."

...You know what? Let's do it in order to shut these guys up for good.

Spike took a deep breath and formed a determined look as the two of us looked down at the lava crater and I felt anticipation from this. Okay Kaede, calm down. It should be simple enough. Now...by the count of three, we'll jump. One....two....three!

Before you know it, me and Spike jumped off the cliff at the same time and headed straight towards the lava crater. I created a good enough splash while Spike...uhh...let's just say...it didn't end up so good.

"Oooh...." The gang said, wincing upon seeing Spike making that splash. A very painful belly flop of a splash. I managed to pop out of the lava, breathing heavily while Spike popped his head out of the lava before spitting some of it out of his mouth.

"That was awesome you guys!" Ren cheered before rubbing his head bashfully with a sheepish grin. "Guess your splashes were more better than mine."

"Well it would seem so." Mason softly smiled. 

"So...Was I...that bad?" Spike asked them, smiling nervously just thinking about how they're gonna take it. Fortunately...they smiled at him as Garble said "No, dude. That was awesome! No pony could live through a belly flop like that! I mean, you and the newbies were awesome!"

"Ha! Couldn't agree with that?" Jack grinned while Carrie chuckled and said "Well...I guess they weren't that bad."

"Yeah, same here." Mason nodded. "So now what?"

"Now..." Garble turned us with a smirk on his face. "I think it's time to officially make you guys honorary dragons!"

The teen dragons let out roars of approval as the rest of us smiled at each other as I gazed back at the cliff to see the others giving me thumbs-up for that. Well I guess that was quite something to enjoy. But boy...it sure was tough and I think Spike finally has some confidence build up inside him at least.



Soon after completing some of their activities, the teen dragons raised their tails and crossed each other as we walked past them. 

"Hmm...it would seem like they're showing off their honorary appreciation." Mason guessed, gazing at the dragons while we walked past them.

"Well that was generous of them." I chuckled with a nervous grin before we made our way in front of Garble as he gave me a wink and smiled, causing me to gag on the inside. Sorry but he's totally not my type.

Soon, we heard someone snorting, almost like the sound of a kazoo as Garble cleared his throat with a serious look on his face. Huh, never thought I would see that in him.

"Spike, by belly flopping so hard, you have proven yourself worthy. I hereby dub you 'rookie dragon'." Garble announced as he used his tail and touched both of Spike's shoulders, much to his joy. "And will now perform the initiation ritual."

He grabbed Spike and gave him a noogie, causing Spike to feel dizzy after that. 

"Now...Delta Rune, Burn, Torch..." Ren, Mason, and Carrie stepped up with serious looks on their faces. "Even you three didn't go through King of the Hoards nor did any tail-wrestling. Well...except for Rune getting his butt kicked so easily in it." Garble laughed while Ren chuckled nervously and flushed in embarrassment. "But overall, you three has some courage jumping into that lava crater with us. So I dubbed you three 'rookie dragons'."

"Yay!" Carrie cheered while Mason and Ren nodded with smiles on their faces. Garble gave Ren and Carrie some noogies while Mason narrowed his eyes at him, and Garble felt a little intimidated by that before patting him on the head. 

"Right...anyway! Blaze! Jumbo!" Me and Jack stepped up as I held a nervous look while Jack had an overconfident look. "You two showed some courage. Jumbo, for making a huge splash and Blaze looking elegantly beautiful..." Oh god... "I dubbed you two part of our dragon brethren."

He did the whole touching our shoulders with his tail, almost similar to what a royal queen would've done for any royal knights. Soon, He and Jack bumped fists together before he turned to his attention to me as he gave me an air kiss, causing me to look away from that. Oh man...I'm starting to have second thoughts coming here to help Spike.

"Now let's party dragon style!" Garble announced, causing the other dragons to roared in agreement. Soon, the dragons began eating many gems from the giant pile we went through during the 'King of The Hoard' challenge. Jack and Spike were excited and impressed upon seeing them party like that.

"Ha ha! I'm already liking these guys!" Jack laughed, crossing his arms. "You know, I'm proud of ya Spike for finally getting used to being a dragon. It's kinda cool actually."

"Thanks Jack!" Spike smiled brightly. "And I want to thank you guys too for helping me out of the activities here."

I smiled softly and nodded as Ren said "Hey, that's what friends are for!"

"Well come on! Let's enjoy this party while it lasts!" Spike insisted while the rest of us looked at each other in worried. I mean, can we even eat gems? Will that be difficult for us in case we ever go back to being humans? "What's wrong?"

"Well we're not sure if we can eat the gems because of...you know." I explained, which Spike fully understood what I meant.

"Oooh...right." He rubbed his head bashfully before saying "Well either way, you should at least try it."

"Yeah, quick being wimps and let's party at least." Jack laughed before running over towards the gem-filled pile as he grabbed as many as he could before taking a bite out of them and before you know it, he formed a large grin on his face. "See?! Told ya these taste good!"

"No you didn't." Mason sighed.

"Well, I guess we can try them out! Come on, let's go!" Carrie insisted, which we nodded in agreement before walking over and passing some dragons eating tons of gems while I picked up a ruby from the ground and hesitantly took a bite out of it...

...Huh...not so bad.

"It really does taste good?" Ren asked incredulous.

"Yeah! It ain't so bad!" I said with a light chuckle before taking another ruby and eating it.

"I already said that, didn't I?!" Jack exclaimed before taking some more gems and stuffing it into his mouth. We all rolled our eyes while we continued to eat the gems.

"Well I trust you Kay and Jack, so why not?" Ren shrugged before taking a bite of an emerald, satisfying him. Mason, Carrie, and Spike grabbed some emeralds, diamonds, and pearls before taking bites of them, satisfying their stomachs as we continued to have some fun over by this party. You know, who knew being a dragon was quite cool. Well at first I was having doubts, but now I'm starting to like being one.



Later
"Ooh..." Ooh, I don't feel so good. An hour past since we celebrated the initiation of us being accepted into the Dragon Migration and we all were enjoying our time being here and eating most of that gems. Soon, we all were laying on the ground with stomach aches...

"Man...I don't feel so good..." Ren rubbed his stomach before holding back his vomit. Mason comforted his sister from vomiting by patting her on the back. Jack let out a loud burp, spitting out some fire.

"Ha...kinda awesome to do that." Jack chuckled.

"Yeah, you can say that again. I've never been this happy in my entire life..." Spike sighed in relief. "Man, was that a great party or what?"

"You can say that again." Ren chuckled before burping, letting out a small patch of flames shot out of his mouth, causing him to quickly covered him. "Umm...excuse me?"

"Great? Huh, maybe by Ponyville standards." We all looked up to see Garble and his gang walking towards us with smirks on their faces. "Stick with us, you guys. We still got plenty to teach you about being a dragon."

"I'm not going anywhere. The way I feel right now, I could hang out with you guys forever." Spike grinned, causing us all to widened our eyes in shock as we exclaimed "Forever?!"

"Yeah! I don't need to go back to Ponyville and just be ridicule by the others by letting them call me 'cute'." Spike stated, crossing his arms with a smirk on his face.  "I rather be here with my own kind and be who I am!"

"But Spike...what about the others?" Ren asked in worried.

"You must understand that everypony back home is waiting for you to come back." Mason added, which Spike scoffed.

"Oh please, like that matters. Besides, would I rather go back to my friends for keep calling me 'cute' or telling me that I'm not 'any other dragon'." We all gave him shocked looks while Garble himself just laughed.

"Ah ha ha! See that? Looks like our friend is almost ready to be a dragon. He's already thinking of those ponies as losers." Garble laughed, alongside with his crew.

"What? But...I thought you guys were friends with ponies?" Carrie asked with a worried look.

"Please, ponies there are just full of stupid boring namby-pamby ponies who thinks that 'friendship is magic' or whatnot. It's so frigging annoying." Garble scoffed with a smirk on his face. "We're dragons! And us dragons should be manly! Not go over to play with some party games and do some girly stuff."

I glanced over where Twilight and the others were in their little disguised dragon, where I saw the girls and Jamie either having scared and worried looks, along with annoyance by what Garble stated.

"But why are we talking about stupid ponies?" Garble chuckled before nudging Jack and said "We have better things besides thinking about some stupid ponies. Why not we do a little raid?"

"A...raid?" Jack asked in confusion.

"Yes, a raid." Garble nodded. "There's a nest full of phoenix eggs nearby, and we're gonna swipe them."

"Phoenix eggs?" Carrie asked curiously before turning to her brother and whispered "Are they like Philomena?"

"It would seem so." Mason whispered back before glaring towards Garble. I don't get it, what's he up to?

Jack looked at him for a while before glancing away from him and asked "Well...alright then. But...why do we need eggs? What? To cook them or something?"

"Oh you're gonna enjoy it Jumbo my dragon friend!" Garble laughed, patting him on the back while the rest of us looked at each other in worried.

"What do you mean? Just why a raid on some eggs?" Mason questioned.

"I told ya already till we swiped them! Now come on!" Garble said as he and the other dragons began flapping their wings and soon flew into the air.

"Oh no...this is bad." I muttered in shock.

"I know right?" Ren nodded before turning to Spike and said "Spike, we have to go back home now."

"What? What do you mean?" Spike asked with a smile. "Isn't this great? I'm finally being treated like a dragon!"

"But what about the eggs?!" Carrie asked in worried. "I...I don't wanna steal a bunch of eggs. What about its parents?"

"Oh you're worried for nothing Carrie." Spike waved it off. "Besides, this might my chance to officially to be a part like them!"

"No Spike! It can't!" I shook my head with a serious look, confusing Spike and startling the others. "I understand how you felt upon having these self-doubts of who you are and why you were born, but we know who you really are when all met you for the first time when we arrive in this world. We saw a helpful, kind, excited, and a lovable friend that will always help us. You got Twilight, Jamie, Rarity, us and the others waiting back home to Ponyville for you! Twilight told us that she encouraged you to come here to find answers, but she did it because she believes that once you find the answers, you'll come back home! The reason why we cared about you Spike was because we know that you aren't like them, you aren't a jerk like Garble! You're Spike the Dragon, Twilight's Number #1 assistant and a good friend to all of us."

Spike looked at me with a shocked look until Ren nodded in agreement and said "She's right. This isn't you Spike. We know that you're better than this! You would never do any harm to some phoenix eggs, right?"

"Indeed." Mason agreed before turning to Jack and asked "Jack...are you really sure about this as well? I understand that you respect them, but you're going too far here if you do this."

Jack clenched his fists in anger with a low growl and said "W-well...what does it matter? I know what's right and what's wrong and I'm not afraid of stealing eggs. They're probably gonna return those eggs. Besides, it might just be a prank, that's all."

"B-b-but...we're practically stealing them." Carrie pointed out. "And what about the parents?"

"W-well..." Jack blushed, rubbing his cheek in embarrassment.

"Jack!" We looked back to see Rarity coming out of the costume with a frustrated look on her face. "How could you?! Of all the stupid things you would have done, this is gotta be the new low you've ever done!"

"R-Rarity..." Spike gasped, which made the white unicorn widened her eyes in realization upon being exposed.

"Oops..." She muttered as Spike looked at her in shock before looking back at the fake dragon and walking over to it and unfolded it, revealing Twilight, Jamie, and Rainbow Dash. 

"You guys?!" Spike exclaimed in shock and anger. 

"H-hi Spike..." Jamie greeted with a nervous smile, but flinched upon seeing the angry glare from him. 

"You guys followed me, didn't you?" Spike questioned. "You guys thought that I couldn't do it, huh?

"No Spike, that's not what we-"

"That's it! I had it!" Spike cut off Twilight as he exclaimed "I told you that I need to do this alone and yet you guys followed me!"

"W-well..." Twilight looked away, feeling guilty about this.

"Spike, we were just worried about you, that's all." Rainbow explained, but Spike scoffed and said "Yeah right, you guys just probably came over and thought that I couldn't handle it, that's all because I'm not like the 'other dragons', right?"

"N-No! Not at all!" Jamie shook his head but Spike ignored them before turning to us and demanded "And you guys were in it, weren't you?!"

"W-well...yeah." Ren sighed.

"We are sorry if we lied to you." Mason apologized. "It's just that-"

"No! I get it! You all thought that I wasn't capable of handling this myself!" Spike exclaimed in anger.

"No Spike, that's not what we thought!" Carrie retorted. "We just wanted to check up on you because we care about you!"

"You know what?! Forget it! I'm out of here! I'm gonna go to that raid and prove to you that I'm a real dragon!" With that, Spike took off and ran ahead, leaving the area while the rest of us felt shocked by this.

"Spike, wait!" I called. "We're sorry! We didn't mean to hurt your feelings! Please!" 

But Spike ignored us and kept running, probably to meet up with Garble and his friends outside for the raid.

"Spikey-wikey..." Rarity cried out, feeling heartbreak by everything Spike said while the rest of us looked at each other with worried looks. But the silence broke when he spoke up...

"Tch...for a small dragon, he sure got a big mouth." Jack scoffed, much to our confusion.

"What?" Ren asked. Jack turned to him with a serious look and said "Seeing him this upset reminds me back in the day. I can't let him just stand around and just do something stupid. That's something I would've done..."

"Jack, are you saying that you're feeling what Spike is feeling right now?" Twilight questioned. "Do you...understand what Spike meant by all those words?"

"All I know is that he's gonna do something stupid....and he has to stop himself before it's too late." Jack said before he began flapping his wings, much to our shock.

"Wait Jack!" Ren called as Jack soon exited out of the volcano as we looked at each other in shock. This is terrible, now I feel so afraid on what Jack's planning to do.

"Now what's fatty up?" Rainbow wondered.

"You don't think he's gonna join Spike and the others on...stealing those eggs?" Carrie asked in worried until Mason held her hand with a soft smile and said "I don't know what's on his mind right now, though I know Spike didn't mean those words. He'll eventually learn his lesson and realized what he said to us."

Carrie smiled at her brother, feeling encouraged by them until Jamie started panicking.

"W-what are we gonna do?" Jamie asked in worried. "W-we can't let either of them do anything that they'll regret!"

"I know that Jamie, but I just don't know what to do..." Twilight shoo her head, looking down on the ground with a guilty look on her face. "I shouldn't have come and followed after him..."

"No Twilight, don't blame yourself Twi." Ren shook his head with a soft smile as he said "It's no one fault. But right now that we should stop them!"

"Agreed, Jack might not be the brightest and I have a feeling that he'll do something that we'll all regret." Mason nodded. I looked at the ground with an extremely worried look. I want to help Spike and Jack because Ren would've done the same, but...can I even convince them from joining with Garble? I...I just don't know anymore.....No, I mustn't say that! Sure I haven't been that useful to this group, but I just don't wanna be left out! That's why...I gotta do something! 

With that, I spread out my wings and took flight, startling the others.

"Kaede!" Rarity gasped.

"Kaede, what are you doing?!" Mason demanded.

"I have to do something! Just meet me at the Phoenix's nests!" I yelled back before I continued to fly through the skies to search out Spike and Jack! Ooh, I have to do something before those two do something stupid.



Jack's POV
Tch...that idiot brat has to go and run his mouth like that because he's having problems on what he is. Tch, how pathetic. Now where is that brat?

"Jack!" Huh? Wait, was that the red haired chick's voice? I looked back and saw the pink dragon coming after me, much to my irritation as I let out a scoffing sound. "There you are! I thought I wouldn't find you so soon!"

She smiled over at me with a relieved look on her face.

"Yeah, what you want?" I asked irritably.

"I'm coming after you to make sure Spike doesn't try anything nor you!" Kaede explained, causing me to scoff.

"Great, so you don't trust me yet again?" Kaede shook her head and said "No, it's not that I don't trust you. It's just that we're worried about you. Jack...I don't know what's in your mind, but I know that you're probably gonna stop Spike from doing this raid, right?"

"W-what?" I asked, a little startled by her guessing what I was doing. To be fair, yes, I'm gonna stop Spike from doing this raid because...what he's about to do is just gonna be plain stupid. I have a cold feeling by the way Garble said about stealing those eggs. I just felt nervous because sure they acted like other bikers from the Yamaki gang, but...I just have this feeling that they're gonna do something more than just 'steal' those eggs.

"It's just a hunch. I just...thought that maybe you needed help." Kaede stated before looking down from the sky with a sad smile. "...Well maybe I can't be of help since most of the time I just stand in the sidelines. Though I wanna help as much as I can for a friend that's all. I've seen Ren helped us out by encouraging the others by saying the right words. It's like he knows how to make them feel better and know how they're feeling. I just wanna help out and after seeing Spike like that...I wanna help out how he feels. Trust me, I sorta understand that feeling..."

"Huh..." I muttered, feeling quite surprised upon hearing that. "Wow, I gotta say...that I didn't expect to hear all that from you."

Kaede blushed in embarrassment before saying "W-well...I just wanna help out, that's all."

"Well..." I gaze towards the mountain as I said "I just want the brat to stop acting like he doesn't know who he is. I just want to make sure that he can't do anything stupid. I may have done stupid things in the past but...this might be one of the stupidest things I'm about to do."

"Well...count me in as well." I looked at the pink dragoness chick as she gave me a soft grin and said "I'm willing to stop Spike as well, so let's do it together Jack."

I gave her a satisfied snort before saying "You know, you're crazy...and that's what I like about people."

Soon enough, we saw a large flash over by the forest nearby as we looked at each other as Kaede said "Something tells me that we should go check that out."

"You think?" I gave her a deadpanned glare before we flown down towards the scene. Why do I have a bad feeling that's something is about to happen?



Kaede's POV
We surely arrived to the scene and landed on the ground as we looked around, hoping to find Spike. We looked around till we saw a bunch of orange colored birds wrapped around in flames flying away. 

"What the hell? What kind of birds are those?" Jack questioned. I narrowed my eyes to get a closer look till I let out a gasp upon realizing what they were. 

"Those are Phoenix's! I recognized them anyway!" I pointed out.

"Wow, those guys weren't kidding about Phoenix's." Jack blinked in surprise before seeing them leave. "Huh...looks like they're running away."

"It's probably Garble, Spike, and the others!" I pointed out, remembering about their plans. "Come on, let's go!" 

"Right!" Jack nodded before we began flying into the air and looked around the forest till we noticed Spike and Garble hanging out in the forest. We flown down and landed in front of them, gaining their attention.

"Spike!" I called in worried.

"Kaede? Jack!" Spike called back in relief while Garble and his two goons felt confused on what he said.

"Kaede? Jack? What a weird bunch of names, Spike. You know it's Jumbo and..." He gave me a goofy grin and said "Blaze..."

"Eww!" I looked away from him, not wanting to be near him at all. 

"Hey, what the hell's going on here?" Jack questioned before noticing a red shiny egg in Spike's arms. "And what the hell is that?"

"O-oh...well..."

"It's one of the Phoenix's eggs that Spike found!" Garble explained with a grin before patting him on the back. "He was busy distracting the parents while we tried the nest, but apparently they all hatched, so we decided to take them too but they got away, along with their parents."

I covered my mouth in shock, my expression turning a bit pale while Jack widened his eyes, thinking what he said was wrong.

"W-what...did you say?" Jack questioned.

"Did ya hear, Jumbo my friend?" Garble laughed. "We all were gonna smash those eggs, but since they hatched, we changed our own plans and tried to eat them, but now that Spike here has the egg, we can just smash it into pieces!"

"Are you frigging stupid?!" Jack exclaimed. "You're gonna smash those damn eggs?!"

"How could you?! Why in the world would you do that?!" I added, glaring angrily at them.

"So what? That's what we do!" Garble laughed before high-fiving his friends while Spike sweated nervously while gazing at the egg. "Well what are you doing Spike? Smash it!"

"S-S-Smash it?" Spike asked nervously. "Smash the egg?"

"Yeah!" The brown chubby dragon nodded.

"Yeah, throwing it on the ground as hard as you can!" The slim purple dragon added.

"Spike don't!" I begged. "You wouldn't do this! Twilight, Ren, Jamie and the others know that this isn't you!" 

"Kaede..." Spike muttered.

"Spike..." I looked at him, tearing up a bit. "I understand how you feel right now, okay? Back then when I lost my dad, I felt so alone and didn't know if I really belonged with my step-mother and my step-sisters because we weren't related by blood. But then I realize that just because we aren't related by blood, doesn't mean we can't make bonds, right? Besides...you have us."

Spike gasped a little, realizing that I had a point.

"Blah blah blah! Who cares about all about this emotional stuff?" Garble scoffed, upsetting Jack a bit and Spike. "Come on Spike, smash that egg!"

"Why don't ya piss off?!" Jack stepped in and pushed Garble away and stood in front of Spike. 

"W-what? Jumbo, what are you doing?!" Garble asked in confusion. "We're trying to have fun!"

"No, all you frigging idiots want to harm something that didn't do anything at all! You think messing with lives is something to enjoy! Killing things is just...wrong! Sure my family are known for doing crazy and stupid stuff, like I do but we would never do something like this! You're all frigging sadistic!"

"Come on, now you're just-"

"No, he's right!" I stepped in front of Spike with a glare as I said "You guys made fun of Spike because he was raised by ponies, so what? Maybe it was destiny for him because Spike would never turn into a killer like you guys!"

"W-what?!" Garble asked, his anger boiling up inside. 

"You heard the chick, fudge off bastard!" Jack clenched his fist, his face showing off his anger. "At least the puny dragon has a heart and would never kill anyone!"

"And you know what? I think we learned one thing about you guys...you're monsters!" I added, snarling at them. "Spike is unlike you guys! He's kind, helpful, always believe in us and would never hurt or even eat us because he's the type of dragon who we call our friend!"

"You guys..." Spike whimpered, letting out a tear upon hearing what we said. 

"Whatever! I don't know what's up with you two, but if I don't see something get destroyed, then I'll-"

"No!" Spike yelled, glaring angrily towards Garble and his gang as they looked at him with incredulous looks. "I won't do it!"

"What did you say?" Garble asked, narrowing his eyes towards him.

"I said no! It's just a defenseless egg, like I was!" Spike said, looking at the Phoenix egg with a soft smile before nuzzling his face against it and said "And I'm not gonna let you hurt it."

"What?!" Garble scowled, but Spike stayed on his ground as he shouted "You heard me! I won't do it! I remember something happened to me when I was lusted with greed and I remember nearly killing my own friends and that I instantly regret ever doing, but they soon forgive me and I swore that I would never harm a soul again!"

"You little bastard...no one says no to me!" Garble growled as he charged towards him until Jack came and punched him in the gut, causing him to wheeze in pain. 

"Step away from the brat or else! You think you're gonna hurt my friends, then you got another thing coming." Jack threatened while me and Spike looked at each other in surprise upon seeing him act like this. Was Jack...defending us? I mean, he doesn't seemed like the type to hurt others unless it's necessary, but still!

"W-what the? Jumbo? What do you think you're doing? You're a part of us, remember?" Garble asked in shock before turning to me and asked "A-and...I thought we had a connection Blaze! I thought we had something."

"First of all, gross. Second of all, no we don't have a connection. We never had a connection." I pointed out. "And besides, after seeing how a sadistic monster you and your friends are, I rather not date someone like you...ever!"

"Damn straight!" Jack nodded. "And besides, after seeing how you don't give a damn about frigging killing someone or something, I rather be with them, my real friends."

He gave me and Spike a soft yet cocky grin before glaring angrily towards Garble and his friends, who scowled back at him.

"You...you traitor!" Garble yelled before turning to his friends and said "Come on! Let's get these little traitors and be rid of them for ever betraying their own bloodline!"

"Yeah!" The two teen dragons roared before charging at us till they were knocked out by a blur and shot in the back by a powerful blue blast. 

"What the?!" Garble yelled before seeing a familiar black dragon landing in front of him with a cold look on his face while the others managed to show up with Jamie nervously holding the Hacking Gun in his hands.

"W-whoa...so that how it feels like, huh?" Jamie asked, feeling hesitant on wielding it.

"Yeah, you get used to it. It's a pretty neat weapon, wouldn't you say?" Ren chuckled before looking at me, Jack, and Spike and asked "Are you guys alright?"

"We're fine." I chuckled while Garble scowled at them and said "You too?! Are you guys all friends with these namby-pamby ponies?!"

"Yeah!" Carrie nodded. "We're all good friends with each other unlike you meanies!"

"Yeah! Nopony touches our friends and gets away with that!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"Indeed." Rarity stepped up and stood next to Mason as she glared sternly at the red dragon and said "Although fighting's not really my thing. I'm more into fashion, but..." 

She formed an enraged look and yelled "I'll rip you to pieces if you touch one scale on his cute little head along with any of my friends!"

Garble blinked in confusion before he started snickering and then laughing.

"Ooh, scary, hehe!" Garble scoffed with a smirk on his face. "Can't believe that you guys are friends with these namby-pamby ponies."

"Well at least they're much better to have friends with unlike you." I scoffed as I walked towards him with a stern look on my face. "I hope I would never ever see you ever again in my entire life!"

"Oh come on, you don't really mean that." Garble chuckled nervously before I let out a scoff of disgust and turned my head away with him, but not until I turned back around and gave him a quick hard punch in the jaw, causing him to fall unconscious on the ground. "Owie..."

With that, he fell unconscious on the ground while I winced in pain upon feeling that impact I gave to him. Oh man, who knew punching someone would be this painful? Hm? I looked over and saw my friends giving me shocked looks on their faces, which I noticed. 

"Umm...what?"

"...What the fudge was that? You just gave him the cold-hardest slap I've ever seen!" Jack exclaimed.

"Indeed, that was quite...surprising for you to do that, even for him." Mason nodded, shocked by what happened.

"Yay Kaede! Way to go!" Carrie cheered. "You showed that bully a lesson he'll never forget!"

"Quite indeed." Rarity nodded, also shocked by me punching Garble and knocking him out. 

"I-I can't believe she had in her." Jamie muttered loudly, his expression turning pale.

"Yeah, who knew she could deliver such a punch." Ren nodded with a gulp before smiling and said "But at least you showed him a thing or two and thank god that we arrived to the scene quickly as possible, am I right?"

"Yeah, you sure did." I chuckled with a light smile before frowning a bit. "Listen...sorry about leaving you guys behind."

"It's okay Kaede, just don't do that again." Twilight smiled before turning to Spike and said "And Spike, I'm so sorry for ever following you-"

"No Twilight, it's alright. I understand if you were so worried about me." Spike softly smiled at her, causing Twilight to walk over and hugged him tight, along with the rest of us.

"Yeah...we're glad to have you back in the group, Spike." Ren smiled. "We thought you were gonna live and stay with these guys forever!"

"Are you kidding? After they tried to make me smash this egg into pieces, there's no way I would do that!" Spike smiled before we gaze at the unconscious bodies of Garble and his friends. "And I think it's best if we leave before they wake up."

"Agreed." Mason nodded. "But I hope that we'll never see the likes of them ever again."

"Same here." Jack scoffed at Garble as we began to walk away until I nudged Jack, causing him to look at me in confusion till I gave him a knowing look, which made him remember something. "Oh...right..."

"Hm? Yes Jack?" Mason asked in confusion. 

"Listen..." He rubbed his head bashfully. "I'm sorry for my attitude earlier again...I didn't mean to run...or fly off like that. I was just upset about what Spike was planning to do. Sorry for my rash nature..." Jack looked down with a sad sigh. "When those guys were acting so immature and tough and cocky-"

"Like you?" Rainbow grinned, causing Jack to smile back at her.

"Yeah...someone like me." Jack chuckled before saying "When I saw them by what I said, I thought I could hang out with them a lot, but...after hearing about smashing that egg and don't care about what they would do...I realized that they were bastards that didn't care about the rules."

"Sorry if that didn't work out for you dude." Ren patted him on the back with a soft smile. "But at least you have us, right?"

"...Yeah." Jack grinned before giving him a noogie on the head, making Ren laugh while the others smiled softly. "You guys are okay in my book!"

"Thanks!" Ren grinned while Jack toothily grinned until he was whacked in the head by Mason as he hold it behind while Jack growled angrily at him and exclaimed "What the hell man?!"

"That's for being too rash and flying off like that." Mason stated before smiling at him and said "And...while you are immature, at least you did the right thing."

Jack glances away from him before replying "W-whatever..."

"So Spike..." Carrie turned to Spike and asked "What are you gonna do with the egg?"

Oh right, I almost forgot about that. Now what are we gonna do about it?

Spike gaze at the egg before letting out a smile and said "You know what? I'm gonna take care of it and raise it like how Twilight raised me."

Twilight smiled at him, along with the rest of us as we felt such a heart-warm moment about to happen.

"Well...until we f-find it's family, that is." Jamie stated with a soft smile. "But overall...I-I guess it'll be nice for you to take care of it Spike."

"Thanks Jamie." Spike smiled. "And thanks you guys for helping me out against those guys."

"Of course. What are friends for?" Twilight smiled.

"You're more than friends. You're my family." Spike chuckled before we all gave each other hugs while Mason noticed he was hugging both his sister and Rarity, causing him to smile softly at the two while Rarity squeaks in embarrassment and excitement as I noticed the blushing from her face. 

"Well glad that's over." Ren sighed in relief as Jamie handing him back his Hacking Gun. "Oh, thanks James."

"A-anytime R-Ren..." Jamie nodded with a meek smile. Jack ruffled Spike's head and said "And you know what? Take good care of hatching this chick, Spike! You know, if you wished to be a better dragon than those clowns back there, why not train with me and Mase? You might enjoy it."

"R-really? You really do that for me Jack?" Spike asked, feeling enthusiastic about it. When Jack nodded, Spike felt pumped up about it as he said "That's awesome! Thanks you guys!"

"Training? With you and Mason?" Rainbow asked in confusion. "Since when did I ever see you exercise, fatty?"

"Hey!" He shouted in offense before clearing his throat with a light blush in his face and said "Y-yeah...I was training for many reasons."

"We've decided to train ourselves to get stronger." Mason stated, crossing his arms with a serious look on his face. "But if you are worried if we ever hurt Spike, then we promise to go easy on him."

"Well that's a relief." Rarity sighed in relief.

"Same here." Twilight nodded.

"Well, I'm glad that we've all learned a lesson here." I chuckled while Spike nodded and said "You bet! I even came up with a great message to send back to the princess!"

"Really?" Carrie asked in excitement. "What is it? What is it?!"

"Well...I guess I can explain it." Spike cleared his throat before he began explaining what the lesson we learned today.

Dear Princess Celestia, 
Seeing the great Dragon Migration made me wonder what it meant to be a dragon. But now I realize that who I am is not the same as what I am. I may have been born a dragon, but Equestria and my pony friends have taught me how to be kind, loyal, and true! I'm proud to call Ponyville my home, and to have my pony, animal, and human friends as my family! 
- Yours truly, 
Spike 

"Wow, that was so beautiful Spike." I chuckled with a soft smile. "I think Princess Celestia might enjoy it."

"Thanks." Spike nodded before turning to Jamie, noticing him writing something down in his journal. "And I bet you've already written it down in your notebook, huh?"

"Y-yes..." Jamie nodded with a small smile before noticing something on me with a confused look. "Kaede? Guys? What's with the flashing?"

"Wait what?" I asked in confusion until I looked at my body and saw that he was right, I was flashing until five seconds later, a bright flash came out of our bodies and soon it died down as we felt nausea from what we just experienced. Oh man...that really felt so sickening just doing all that.

"Whoa! Guys, look at yourselves!" Huh? We overheard by what Rainbow Dash shouted as I looked down at my hands, and it turns out...they were back to the way they were! They were human hands! I looked around at my body and saw that I was back in my clothing, and the others looked at themselves and found out that we were back to normal as well.

"Hey, we're humans again!" Ren exclaimed in joy. "I don't know how, but we're back!"

"Thank goodness for that." Mason sighed in relief.

"Huh..." Jack looked at his back with a smirk on his face. "I'm gonna miss my strength. Oh well, it was fun while it lasted."

"Yeah, I'm gonna miss being a dragon." Carrie sighed sadly. "It was so awesome doing all those dragon challenges."

"H-H-HOW?!" Jamie yelled in shock. "How is that possible?!"

"Amazing!" Twilight exclaimed in excitement. "How on Equestria did you guys do that in the first place?!"

"I-I don't know..." I shook my head before looking at my hands and clenched them. It's so weird...I don't know how we were turned back to normal...but I hate to say it, but I'm gonna miss being a dragon. Oh well...I don't know how we were turned into dragons in the first place, but that thinking more about it just gonna confused me. That's just another part for our little list of mysteries here in Equestria...

"Hey, can I see a mirror for a sec, Rares?" I asked curiously.

"Sure thing Kaede, darling." Rarity nodded before taking out a mirror and showing my face, and it was back to the way it was before I was transformed into a dragon. Hmm...my hair looks fine, and so does my face. So I guess nothing's wrong...Huh? Suddenly, for a second there, I thought for a second there I saw a glint of flash on each of my cheeks. Strange...I guess I was imagining things. "Something wrong, Kaede?"

"...Nah, it's nothing. Just wanted to make sure." I assured with a soft grin before handing back the mirror to her. Rarity nodded while the others discussed by what we've experienced, but overall, I was still confused by what I saw when I was looking at myself. I was sure that I wasn't exactly seeing things, right?



Later
Soon, we all headed our way back home to Ponyville and it was quite easy to get back there what with the shortcut Twilight and Jamie found out while they followed after Spike.

So with that, we said our goodbyes and headed back to our respective homes. Soon, me, Ren, Carrie, Mason, Jamie, and Jack were heading back to the home-ship to enjoy a peaceful sleep because we needed it.

"Man, despite those guys trying to smash that egg and planning that raid to make Spike smashed it, it was pretty fun what with doing all those crazy things and eating some rubies." Ren chuckled. "I'm surprised that when we got transformed back into humans and such, I was thinking that we might've felt sicked from eating all those gems."

"You can say that again." Jack nodded before rubbing his gut. "You know,  being a dragon felt so fun, including fighting those suckers in the King of the Hoard game."

"Of course you would like that." I rolled my eyes, remembering that dirty little trick he pulled on me and Spike.

"Well...at least we're back to normal and everything went alright with Spike." Mason smiled.

"You can say that again, big brother! I'm so happy that Spike finally accepted who he is." Carrie chuckled, which her brother nodded. Soon, we arrived to the front of the home-ship where we encounter him.

"Ah, I was wondering what was taking you guys so long..." We all gaze at Rantaro, who was leaning against the wall as he tilted his head a bit. "You know, I was feeling bored what with you guys not showing up for the whole day."

"Umm...thanks?" Ren replied with a somewhat soft smile.

"What do ya want now?" Jack questioned with a growl.

"Oh nothing...just thought I told you guys about a little surprise I encountered." We all became confused by what he said. A special surprise?

"W-what sort of surprise?" Jamie questioned hesitantly. "D-did you find something?"

Rantaro glanced away before turning around and opening the door for us, much to our confusion. He gestured us to follow him inside as we did so and entered back the place and into the living room.

"Well...what is it?" Mason questioned. "What did you find?"

"Well I can say that it wasn't something..." Rantaro pointed to what was in front of us. We looked up and just like that...silence shunned us as we bore witnessed into something...no...someone in front of us.

It was a woman, presumably in her early 20s sitting down on the couch as she scratched Kodiak, Rosy, Jo Jo, Gizmo, Nate, and Maddy as they were sleeping next to her. Well Kodiak and Rosy were still awake as they were enjoying their time being with her.

"Ooh yeah, that's the spot." Kodi sighed happily, letting his tongue out while the woman simply just continued to scratch before replying "Okay..."

We all just stood there in shock while we stared at the curious woman. She had emerald green eyes and short unkempt auburn hair with two long ear-like hair locks that stick up on both sides on her head but must be kept up like that with several hair clips. She wears a pair of round black glasses. 

She wears a yellowish-orange long-sleeved loose maroon pullover sweater with a light pink ruffled strap almost covering her shoulders, two braid-like embroidery flowing down her sweater, a black tie with an blue lower half on it, and tight blue shorts that reaches only the uppermost part of her thighs. Underneath her sweater, she wears a deep raven back collared sleeveless shirt. She also seemed to be wearing two mismatched slippers because the one on her right was crimson color with a puppy face on it while the one on her left was yellow with a kitten face on it. I'm not so sure if she would noticed that or not.

Also, what I also noticed that she had a violet colored iPad with her. Soon, she slowly took noticed of us while Kodi and Rosy felt too happy and relaxed to see us as the girl looked at us with a look like she didn't care at all. No smile, no disappointment, no annoyance, nothing. Her expression was just...boring.

"....Hello there."

...Just what's happening here?

To Be Continued
> Chapter 51 - Hurricane Fluttershy!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


My Little Pony Theme Song

"...Oh? What's wrong? Why are you all giving me those looks?" She asked curiously, tilting her head in confusion while we all jaw-dropped upon meeting another human in the room, and she's not even afraid, worried, or anything at all! 

"P-please excuse ma'am..." Jamie apologized, recovering from the shock. "W-we're...umm...well..."

"We're just shocked to see another human here too!" I exclaimed in shock and surprise.

"Yeah, so soon as well!" Kaede agreed. "Where-"

"Did I wake up from a mysterious pod in a mysterious white room? Was that you were gonna say?" W-what the?! D-did she just guessed what Kay was gonna say?

"W-what?" Kaede asked, startled a bit. "Yeah, that's what I was gonna say!"

"The hell?!" Jack exclaimed. "How-"

"Did I know that? Was that you were gonna say?" She asked, causing Jack to widened his eyes in shock. "...Sorry if I was being rude for interrupting you."

"It's quite alright." Mason assured with a somewhat nervous grin. "But...sorry if I am being rude, but-"

"Who am I? Is that you were gonna say?" She asked curiously, which made Mason blinked in shock before letting out a nod.

"Wow!" Carrie said in amazement. "It's like you can read our minds!"

"It's nothing like that......." She stated before glancing away from us and the conversation went silent, neither of us making a sound or saying anything to her, neither did she.

".....Well anyway." Mason cleared his throat before giving her a serious look and said "Who are you if we might ask?"

"Nicole Bonnie, it's nice to meet you...I think." Well that's kinda a weird way to introduce yourself.  "I don't think I ever gotten your names."

"O-oh...J-Jamie Watson..." 

"Names Jack Yamaki, nice to frigging meetcha.

"My name is Kaede Ross."

"I'm Ren. Ren Loodan and yeah I get if my last name sounds kinda weird..."

"I'm Carrie and this is my big brother, Mason!"

Rantaro glanced away as he went silent with an uninterested look. I turned over to him and asked "Umm...aren't you gonna introduce yourself Rantaro?"

"Don't have to. She already knows who I am." Rantaro replied with a soft smile and shrugged. 

"He's right..." Nicole agreed, looking over her iPad. "When I woke up, I encountered him in the white room and he and I investigated this place, including the new rooms."

"Huh?" Kaede asked in confusion. "You two explored the new rooms already? Then-"

"Where did I get this iPad when all of our belongings were taken away? Is that you were gonna say?" Nicole guessed, much to Kaede's surprise as she smiled at her and said "Well yeah! How did you do that?"

"I just knew that by reading your mouth movements..." Huh? Mouth movements?"

"You know what about to say judging by the movement of our mouths and how we feel?" Mason questioned, with a small nod from the girl. 

"Yes, I'm a Psychologist..." She explained, looking over at her violet-colored iPad. 

"Ah!" Jamie gasped with widened eyes and I could've sworn that I saw sparkles from his eyes. "I know who you are! You're Nicole Bonnie, a psychologist who worked on many different documents on the different subjects of psychology. She was fully known for her research on analytical psychology and can read whatever a person's personality truly is!"

"No way! So she can read our emotions?!" Kaede gasped. Carrie felt excited by that as she made a smile on her face and said "Wow! She must be that famous, is she?"

"So it would seem." Mason nodded.

"Tell me about it." I agreed before turning to Nicole and said "It's kinda awesome that you-"

"Read people's emotions? Was that right?" I became startled upon hearing her say what I was about. 

"Y-yeah, that's quite an amazing ability you have there." I grinned happily and another round of silence came from her as she glanced away from me and looked over at her iPad, not bothering to answer me. "Uhh...are you okay?"

"...Sorry. I'm not the type to...be in small talks like this." She apologized, much to my confusion as I rubbed my cheek in confusion. So she's not good at conversations? I don't think I've heard of someone not good with small talks.

"Course you wouldn't." Rantaro chuckled. "Besides, you must have good observational skills to easily identify someone. I gotta say...that's not a little boring."

Nicole furrowed her brows a bit and said "No, you're lying about it. You're quite impressed by them."

Rantaro let out a scoff and looked away from her while the rest of us felt surprised upon hearing that.

"No frigging way!" Jack exclaimed in shock. "Did you just...saw through his lies?"

"Yes." She answered bluntly. 

"Intriguing..." Jamie muttered loudly. "Her observation skills must be so skilled that she can easily see through lies, even good ones from Rantaro."

"So it would seem." Mason nodded, crossing his arms before turning to Nicole and asked "Though, I guess while we're here, we can explore the new rooms you talked about, right?"

"Correct." She nodded before walking away and past us, presumable going over to the elevator because it showed us the new floors of this ship. 

"Well...she's interesting." Kaede chuckled nervously with a small sweat-drop.

"I think she's a nice person." Carrie giggled.

"Yeah well she's too quiet as a cat." Jack rolled his eyes while Rantaro followed after her and said "Say what you want. I see her quite interesting...in a way of course."

I raised a brow at Rantaro's comment before walking over to Kodi and the other pets, who were relaxed and comfortable on the couch including those scratches Nicole gave to them. 

"Hey boy, how you feeling?" I asked, scratching his belly as he looked at me with an excited look before licking my face repeatedly and replied "It was quite good! I kept the place all safe from any intruder!"

"Then what about Nicole?" Jamie questioned.

"Oh her? She's nice. Apparently, I saw her wandering out of Ren's room with a confused look as I spoke with her, and for the first time, she wasn't surprised by me talking at all." We all looked at Kodi in surprise upon hearing about Nicole not even afraid of hearing him talking.

"Seriously?" Kaede asked incredulous. 

"I know that her expression turned boring, but she wasn't showed the bit of surprise?" Mason questioned, which Kodi nodded. Mason thought for a while as he petted both of his pet squirrels' heads before turning to Jamie and asked "Jamie...do you know anything more about her?"

"N-no...I only learned about her research about the different subjects of psychology and how her reputation grew popular. Though I've heard and rarely seen her on the news when discussing about that research." Jamie explained, glancing away nervously. "I-I'm so sorry if I wasn't able to provide any more information..."

"Don't feel bad Jamie." Kaede assured. "I'm sure that she'll tell us more about herself."

"Kay's right, I mean I learned about most of you guys and we still became friends." I added with a smile on his face. "So let's go follow her and talk with her while we explored the new areas."

"That's a great idea Kay!" I nodded in agreement before heading over to the elevator, seeing Rantaro, his friend Gizmo, and Nicole standing over in front of the elevator as it opened with the rest of us, along with our pet animals walked inside of the elevator and saw two more buttons were activated. "Alright, let's go!"

I pressed one of them as the elevator doors closed, pulling us up as we awaited for the arrival the new rooms that appeared in the place. I stood there in the center of the elevator, Kaede and Kodiak standing next to me on each side, Carrie held her brother's arm, who kept his serious look on his face, Jack leaned against the elevator's walls with a chilled and relax look on his face while Jamie felt nervous as he held against the notebook real hard in his arms, Rantaro was busy on his iPhone 7 and Nicole was keeping quiet while she looked at her iPad, not feeling nervous or excited at all to explore the new areas. 

Sooner after five minutes of awkwardness, the elevator took a stop as the doors opened, revealing a giant mall-like area with many different stores, food courts, and a movie theater! Holy cow! I think we really dd hit the jackpot here! This ship really is paradise!

"No way! Look at this place!" Kaede exclaimed in awe. "It has Target, Walmart, food courts, and a fashion store!" Kaede exclaimed in amazement!

"Ooh! That's so cool!" Carrie cheered with an excited grin on her face as the two, along with Mason, took a good lock around the stores. 

"This looks similar to one of the malls back in our world." Jamie explained, taking notes and sketches in his journal. "The designer must've somehow copied the blueprints of the Galleria Crystal Mall...fascinating, weird but fascinating..."

"Ha ha! I never thought we needed another good awesome place to hang till today...or tonight." Jack rubbed his head bashfully while I walked around a bit with an excited grin on my face before looking up at the ceiling, seeing a glass ceiling that showed us the beautiful sunset fallen down in the skies.

"Whoa, what is this place Ren?" Kodi asked in confusion and excitement.

"It's called a mall, a place where humans buy things, get refunds on things they never had, hang out, have fun, and...whatever you want!" I explained with a big grin on my face. "This is just so awesome that we get to go to the mall everyday! I bet they got a GameStop so that I can buy a game that I didn't get yet since arriving to this world."

"We've already explored this place and I gotta say..." Rantaro gave off a smirk on his face. "This mall really does have valuable things."

"Yes, yes it does..." Nicole agreed, glancing away from him before doing something on her iPad. You know, speaking about it...

"Hey Nicole, I know we just met but..." 

"Why do I have a device when most of ours were taken away from us?" Nicole guessed, startling me a bit as she continued "If you're thinking about suspecting me like Mr. Wilde here, then no. I got here from the Walmart store."

"What's a 'Walmart'?" Kodi asked curiously.

"It's a store that you buy food, candy, magazines, frozen food, video games, clothing and such." I explained before turning back to Nicole and said "But shouldn't you pay for it? It would seem pretty rude to just take things without permission."

"There's no one around here, so I thought it wouldn't matter." Nicole replied, turning her head away a bit from me. 

"See, even she gets it." Rantaro smirked. "We own this place now so we can do whatever we want. No one can tell us what to do anymore..."

Well...when you two put it like that, I can't argue with logic like that.

"It would seem that this mall district has a second floor up." Mason stated, seeing the next floor above us where the food court and some other stores were. 

"Alright, let's go investigate by taking that escalator." I said, pointing over to a nearby escalator as we all went up and just ten seconds of boredom and such, we arrived to the next floor. 

"Whoa, that was quite fun." Kodi smiled, looking back at the escalator.  "So that's what an escalator is. It's kinda a weird machine."

"Trust me, I think stuff people built were weird but at the same time, useful." I replied with a smile, earning confused looks from the others.

"Like whaaat?" Jack questioned. I rubbed my cheek in embarrassment and said "I-It's nothing."

"Ren?" Mason asked, raising a brow.

"I swear you guys, I was kidding." I chuckled nervously before walking over and gasped excitedly upon seeing what I thought it couldn't be! "No way! GameStop! I'm so glad that we got it! Now it really feels like paradise!"

"Of frigging course you get excited about that." Jack scoffed as we looked around the GameStop store and saw millions of different PSP, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Wii U, and Xbox One games. 

"Look at all these games! They even got new games that I never bought here!" I exclaimed, looking over the shelves with an excited look on my face.

"I-it sure is...amazing." Jamie glanced around the place. "Although I've never been a gaming store before."

"Seriously?" I asked in surprise, which he nodded until I patted his shoulder and made a serious look and said "Then I'm gonna have to teach you on being a gamer like me."

"Please don't." Kaede said with a nervous smile before something caught her eye. "Hey you guys, what's that?"

We looked over to see what was on the shelf, which caused me to gasped in shock. I-it couldn't be...! It's...

"Kingdom Hearts III!" I exclaimed in excitement before immediately running over to a stand and picked out the game, holding into the air with an excited look on my face. "Oh my god! I've been waiting for years for this game to come out, and the other fans I know from Youtube were excited for the game, including that teaser trailer I've seen a couple of years ago."

"Kingdom Hearts III?" Carrie asked curiously. "What's that?"

I turned back with a gasp and asked "You guys seriously never heard of that game before?!"

"Should we?" Mason questioned with a raised brow.

"I had. It's one of those excited games that fans been dying to get." Rantaro explained. "I know a guy who knows how to bootleg some movies and videogames."

"You're kidding, right?" Jack questioned, sneering at him.

"No, he's telling the truth..." Nicole stated, causing Rantaro to feel a bit irritated by that. 

"You just like calling out whenever I'm telling the truth or not? I tell the truth most of the time." Rantaro smirked at her, but she glanced away and stated "No you don't...you like lying to conceal yourself and your past in a veil of lies."

We all blinked in surprise upon hearing that as Kaede stated "Well...she's not wrong there."

"His whole past is shrouded with mystery." Mason stated. 

"Well even so, I still think of him as a friend." I chuckled with a smile, earning an incredulous look from a certain biker.

"Really?" What? I'm just saying. But besides the point, I can't believe that this place has a gaming store that were selling Kingdom Hearts III!.....Wait....something doesn't feel right... 

"I-Is there something wrong Ren?" Jamie asked, noticing my confused look. 

"Well...it's just that....why would the game be released right now?" I asked, confusing some of them.

"What do you mean Ren?" Kaede asked, not following what I said. 

"Well, the game was meant to be released in January 2019, just next year so why is it already released so soon?" Everyone looked at each other in confusion, realizing that I might have a point there since I am a huge videogame fan.

"To be fair, I think he might have a point..." Jamie muttered loudly, rubbing his chin in thought. "I mean, Ren is known for being a great gamer but even though he's average and such, he is quite fascinated with many games, movies, TV shows, and such."

"See, even Jamie agrees with me." I pointed out with a smile before sweat-dropping a little. "And come on dude, I'm not that average."

"It's true..." Nicole agreed, looking over her iPad. "According to here that the game was meant to be released worldwide next year on the first month of 2019, but it's here on display."

"That is true." Mason nodded. "That does seem strange..."

"Oh! Maybe it was released earlier?" Carrie suggested, but I shook my head and replied "No, I don't think so Carrie. Games won't be released on display until the released dates or if someone has the internet like me, they buy the games online to have the first experiences of it and see how awesome it is."

"Hmm, for a kid you ain't half bad." Rantaro smirked, walking over to the register and looking over the cashier.

"And how do you know that Ren?" Kaede asked curiously.

"Yeah, you seemed pretty sure of yourself." Kodi added, tilting his head in confusion.

"Well I watched Youtubers always playing games like Yo Kai Watch 2, Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion and Super Smash Bros. Wii U always playing the games just a few weeks before the release dates, meaning that they pre-order the games to gain first experience. I sorta envy them because they get to play the games for the first time." I chuckled, rubbing my head bashfully.

"Of course you would." Mason smiled. "You're always the type to play video games late at night."

"You got me there..." That gotten the others to either smile or chuckled, but the only one who wasn't doing that was Nicole herself as she just looked at me for a while before walking off. "Huh? Nicole, where are you going?"

However, she didn't replied and just wandered off, causing the rest of us to look at each other and followed after her while I put the game back on the shelf. While I am quite excited yet confused upon seeing the game, I can't just take it. It would be wrong to just take it without paying for it.

Soon, we noticed her walking by with her iPad in front of her until Rantaro walked over in front of her, causing Nicole to stop in her tracks.

"Wow, for a psychologist, you sure know how to be plain rude." Rantaro joked, but she remained silent for a while until she said "Sorry, I told you that I'm not the type to divulge into stuff like that."

"Really?" Rantaro snickered. "I didn't noticed."

She furrowed her brows at him and said "Please, no need for the sarcasm."

"Whatever." Rantaro shrugged while the rest of us looked at her with confusion. 

"Well still, it is quite rude to just ignored us and walk off like that." Mason stated.

"Right...so sorry about that." Nicole apologized. "But you guys can go over and investigate this place as much as you want."

With that, she began walking away and headed over somewhere in this mall district.

"Well...I better make sure she doesn't try anything stupid." Rantaro stated as he began following her.

"Big brother, why does Nicole act like that?" Carrie asked curiously.

"I...have no clue." Mason shrugged. "Though I'll admit that for a psychologist, she isn't the type to have a conversation with."

"Y-yeah..." Jamie nodded. "While I read about her work, I never heard about how she works nor a-about her personality..."

"Well they are many different people who don't fit well with their talents." Kaede chuckled nervously.

"Whatever, she just loves being quiet. It makes me feel suspicious of her." Jack said, sneering at the girl as she was seen in the food court with Rantaro watching over her as he was seen leaning against a pillar. "But not on the same level of suspicion as Rantaro..."

"Come on you guys, we're all friends here." I said with a soft smile. "We all need to get along here."

"Tch...whatever." Jack said before letting out a small burp, which gotten a smile on his face. "But overall, I'm getting hungry. Hopefully that food court has some automatic food makers like that One Round arcade room from the last floor."

With that, he began taking his leave while the rest of us stayed behind. Man, Jack sure really love eating his food.

"Lucky..." Kodi groaned with a pout, causing me to scratch him underneath. 

"Well I guess maybe a quick bite. We can eat over by the food court for dinner." I offered, which the others seemed to agreed.

"Yay!" Kodi and Carrie cheered.

"Meow!" Rosy cheered alongside them while Kaede scratched underneath her chin while she rested in her arms. 

"Sounds to me Rosy agrees with that." Kaede giggled.

"Well...I see why not we should eat. Need a break from cooking for a while." Mason smiled.

"Y-yeah...I wouldn't mind trying a food court out..." Jamie meekly smiled, which brought out a small smile on my face. Well something tells me that we're gonna enjoy our time together what with the new floors here in this home-ship. Soon after, we decided to take a little break and ate some food over by the many food courts like Subway, McDonald's, Burger King, Papa Johns, Dominoes, and Golden Coral. Turns out, Jack was right for once because the food was being made automatically and we enjoyed eating our time. 

Though, it's been a while since I had a hamburger with a side of fries and purple Fanta, which I mean that I'm having one right now, well except for the hamburger because I started getting used to eating the pony's diet here in Equestria, so I'm having a veggie burger. Soon after, we were enjoying eating our food what with Rantaro ordering a cheeseburger, Jack eating many types of food he got from the buffet, Jamie simply eating a normal Italian Bread sandwich with teriyaki, lettuce, and tomatoes by the side. Carrie and Mason were eating some pizza, along with Kaede and Rosy. Kodi was busy eating some plain cheese pizza, much to his joy.

"You know, this pizza taste so good." Kodi barked happily before I wiped away the smudges of his face. "Though I've taste pizza before and they kinda taste somewhat similar."

"Well Equestria and Earth do seem to feel somewhat similar to each other." I replied with a shrug before finishing off the last bit of my chicken sandwich. Well we haven't eaten any meat in a long while, but even when the others aren't here, we still have to keep our promises to them...well except Jack and maybe Rantaro because Jack likes to blurt things out of his mouth and has a big appetite and Rantaro...well he's the type who seems to break promises while also keeping promises under prices. 

Anyway, I saw Nicole eating a nice Caesar salad on the table while viewing her iPad. Jeez, I've played many games on the screen for a long while, but this is ridiculous. 

"Is that you gonna have again? Seems like a boring way to eat dinner." Rantaro shrugged, drinking from the cup. 

"I'm a vegetarian, so there's nothing much..." Nicole stated, glancing away from him before going silent.

"Oh, so you're a vegetarian?" Carrie asked curiously. 

"Well it would seem that's a relief." Mason smirked a bit.

"What do you mean?" Nicole questioned.

"You still haven't realize since meeting the talking dog?" Rantaro questioned, pointing over to Kodiak, who was still eating some of his pizza. Nicole shrugged while he sighed irritably. "God, and you call yourself a psychologist."

"Hey! Be nice Rantaro!" Kaede scolded, which Rantaro ignored as he continued to drink his Coco-Cola.

"Well..." I looked over at Nicole with a smile. "You see-"

"We're in another world filled with magical talking ponies and we seemed to be trapped in this world till we find another way back into our own? Am I right?"

....She literally took the words right out of my mouth.

"W-what the hell?!" Jack exclaimed with widened eyes. "D-did you just-"

"Guess what he was gonna say? Correct?" Oh my god! She literally did it again!

"G-Goddammit! Stop it!" Jack demanded.

"N-no way!" Jamie exclaimed in shock. "I've read about your work but to think that she was able to figure out what Ren was about to say! Is her psychology really that advanced to know what others are saying?!"

Mason gave Jamie a blank look and replied "And you aren't even questioning on how she took it all with a calm look on her face?"

"Yeah." Carrie nodded before smiling over at Nicole and asked "Are you sure that you aren't psychic? I mean, that's what a psychologist is, right?"

"I think..." Nicole shrugged, finishing up her salad before getting up and letting out a yawn. "Ahhh...I think I should go over to my room and take a nap."

"Seriously?" Jack asked incredulously, but she didn't replied back as she got up, took her tray and put it into the trashcan.

"And of course she's just walks off." Rantaro rolled his eyes before following after her.

"Is it just me or does Rantaro seems to take an interest in her?" Kaede thought aloud, which the rest of us nodded. 

"So it would seem." Mason crossed his arms with a solemn look on his face.

"So wait, is she really psychic?" Kodi asked curiously. "Is that what a psychologist does?"

"Not entirely..." Jamie stated, glancing down. "Though I'm starting to think of that possibility..."

"Me too! She must be psychic!" Carrie grinned happily. "Wait till Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle to hear about this!"

"And so will the others." Kaede agreed, blinking in surprise. "So what now? Should we follow them?"

I looked over at my empty tray and began thinking about following after them, so...maybe I should go after them while the others keep investigating here in this mall district.

"You guys...why not investigate this mall? I'll go check up on them." I offered, getting up from my seat as I walked over to the trash and dumped the empty tray on it. 

"Are you sure Ren? Do you not need us to come?" Mason asked. I shook my head with a smile and said "Don't worry you guys, I'm sure that the next area is our new friend's room."

"Whatever, you go. I rather stay here and eat more food." Jack continued to eat more food on his plate, which made some of us feel disgusted by it.

"Right...see ya and good luck on more investigating this mall." I said before heading out with Kodiak following after me. 

"Hey, wait for me Ren!" Kodi called as he ran next to me with an excited look on his face. "I mean, I'll never leave your side."

"Heh heh...thanks boy." I smiled before scratching him underneath the chin before turning back at the others and said "Well I'll see you guys later!"

"See ya Ren!" Kaede called as we continued to look after Rantaro and Nicole before finding them back at the ship's elevator. They soon noticed us as Nicole glanced away, still having that bored look on her face.

"Hey you guys!" I waved happily, getting a short wave from Nicole and an annoyed glance from Rantaro as he asked "Oh great, now what do ya want kid? Can't you see that we're trying to get some sleep?"

"S-sorry about that..." I apologized before asking "But we were just curious if you guys took us to the other new room that opened up."

"You mean her room?" Rantaro glanced over at Nicole, who was busy looking at me which send some awkwardness and chills on my spine. "Meh...I've already investigated that place..." Rantaro gave me a small smirk on his face and said "But...I think you might find some useful info that we've discovered there."

"Useful...info?" I asked curiously.

"What kind of useful info?" Kodi tilted his head with a raised brow.

"I could tell you..." Rantaro made a small smirk on his face. "For 1,000,000 bits."

"But I don't even have that money!" I exclaimed.

"He's serious though I'll never understand his prices..." Nicole stated, furrowing her brows towards Rantaro. "Tell me, why do you do that when you know most people would pay the over-expensive prices you make up?"

"It's just how I roll." Rantaro snickered, which made Nicole looked at him for a while before glancing away and took her leave into the elevator, causing him to mockingly pout. "Now that's just mean."

"You know she can practically know that you don't mean that, right?" Kodi pointed out, which made Rantaro rolled his eyes.

"Course I do dog, it's called 'sarcasm'." Rantaro answered before walking over to the elevator as Nicole pressed onto the button and waited for the elevator doors to open. "And besides, if you two want, go over to Nicole's room. I rather to go to sleep. Besides, it's getting late so why not you go over to the sleep? Especially about the whole dragon business."

"Huh? You seriously just asked that now?" I asked in confusion.

"Yep." I gave him a deadpanned look before asking "Well...don't you wanna know how the rest of us got turned back to normal?"

"Nah...it'll be a waste of time." Rantaro answered. 

"Come on Ran, well can you guys take me to Nicole's new room to investigate if there's any possible clues there?" I asked, which made Nicole glanced away and Rantaro crossing his arms and Gizmo coming out of his hat and eating some pretzels that he might've gotten from the food court. 

"...Ugh, you'll just keeping bothering us. That's the kind of guy you are." Rantaro snorted. "Fine, I see why not to take you there, right Nikki?" 

"'Nikki'?" Nicole questioned.

"It's a nickname, get with the program." Nicole looked at him while blinking before shrugging and pressing a random button, activating the elevator as we descended towards the next floor to investigate. Five minutes later, we arrived to the next room which showed a room that seemed to look similar to a college dorm room because it had a personal bathroom, a Queen Platform Bed With Floating Nightstands,  a foldable closet doors, a board floorboards, a rainbow colored carpet, a big Flat Screen HDTV attached to the wall, and the walls were dark blue, and had a window just over her bed. Not only that, there was a stack of books over by a big shelf and a desk next to it.

"Oh, so this is your room Nicole?" I asked curiously.

"Yes, it's no big deal...." Nicole replied, glancing away before going over her iPad before walking over to the bookshelf and looked over it. Well it looks like a normal room just like the other rooms we've seen. Soon, I noticed Kodi started sniffing around the place until he paused and let out a big sneeze.

"ACHOO!" Kodi exclaimed, rubbing his aching nose with his paw. "Ooh boy, this room was quite dusty."

"You can say that again." Rantaro said. "That was my first reaction when I first came here."

"Indeed...although I don't why but it would seemed to be quite strange...a room filled with dust..." Nicole agreed, furrowing her brows as she showed her serious look. It does seem weird, so why is this room so filled with dust? It's like this room hasn't been used for who knows how long.

"Yeah..." I agreed as Kodi carefully sniffed around in hopes of not sneezing from the dust again. Soon after, he let out a bark as I turned around as he pointed over to the desk, seeing a letter on the desk. "Is this...a letter?"

"Yeah, you can read it for your own. I already had." Rantaro shrugged, turning away from me. "Trust me, it'll help ya in your own investigation."

"And while I am confused by all this, I'll ask you and the others tomorrow morning more about the situation we are in." Nicole added, glancing towards me while I shrugged and looked over at the letter and decided to read over it.

"What does it say, Ren?" Kodi asked, feeling anticipated about it.

"Well..." Soon, I began reading it aloud to learned about the contents of this letter.

"From the Executives Office of the Co___y Fou____ion....
Through__t the years, We have be__ committ__ to w___ching and h___ing the world in order to h_lp the p__ple in search of their lost fut___s. But we re____t to inform that the w____d is fac__g an epi___ic crisis. Ever sin__ the biggest inc______ that occurr__ several m____s ago, the epidemic gotten w____e and this c____d lead to be a problem for m___ind. That is why we d___ded to w__k on Pr____t Ark. But make no mistake, this is not the end for the Co___y Fou____ion nor the future of m___ind. We w_ll find a c__e for the v___s. We s__cer__y th__k eve__on_ f_r your help and s____rt over the y___s. For now, we are goi__ u__er inves____ion a_d it would s___ th__ we m__ht've disc___ed the c__se of the...."

"What the hell? I can barely read this." This isn't any useful information at all! God dang it Rantaro!

"Well even so, it's still useful." Rantaro said, picking his ears a bit. "We just need to find a way to remove the smudges because they're pretty old and I don't think rubbing it with your thumb isn't gonna work."

"I wasn't gonna do that!" I retorted with a small pout.

"Yes you were." I turned to Nicole in shock as she continued "You might not notice it but you were twitching your index finger a bit from that letter." 

Huh? Seriously? She definitely sure has some good eyes. 

"Wow, it must be that hard to read, huh?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Yeah, tell me about it." I rubbed my head bashfully before letting out a yawn. "But man, we finally found a clue that might be useful to us, but this have to happen. As I expected..."

"So it would seem..." Nicole let out a yawn as she bored a tired look on her face. "Oh well, you can keep it if you want."

I gave her an incredulous and surprise look before asking "What? Seriously? You...want me to have it?" 

"I don't mind. You're not a bad person at all." Nicole stated. "In the meantime, I wanna know more about the situation and this world we are in."

"Hmm...I know we've met just a couple of hours before these guys came in, but I gotta say, you're quite the type who always get to the point." Rantaro chuckled, earning a blank look from the girl before she walked off and settling her iPad near the desk at her bed. "Jeez, that was rude."

I'm sure that she isn't trying to be rude, just probably shy. She did say that she was terrible at small talks.

"Well either way, at least we have a new friend to join us in and help solve the mysteries of this place and Equestria." I added, causing Nicole to look at me in confusion and asked "Friend?"

"Well yeah, we're friends now." I chuckled as she glanced away from me before saying something that caught me off-guard.

"I'm sorry but I rather not be called a friend." Nicole said bluntly, causing me and Kodi to feel surprise by that.

"W-what?" I asked in confusion.

"Yes, I...rather not be called a friend." Nicole repeated.

"But why? Is there something wrong being called a friend?" Kodi questioned curiously. Nicole glanced away before letting out a yawn and said "I'm sorry...I rather tell you tomorrow. I'm tired..."

Oh well...it is getting late and she deserves some sleep after the night she's been through. 

"Well that's our cue to take our leave, goodnight." Rantaro rolled his eyes before placing his hands in his pockets before walking over to the elevator while I looked at Nicole with a concern look, along with Kodiak. I don't get it, why doesn't she like being called a friend? It kinda makes me sad that she doesn't want to be our friends. Well like Mason, Rantaro, Jamie, and Jack before, I can try bonding with her tomorrow. And I can't wait for the others to hear and see her show up. 

"What now Ren?" Kodi asked, his ears drooping down. I gave him a soft smile before letting out a sigh and petted him on the head. 

"Don't worry boy, I'm sure she didn't mean it. We'll help her accept ours and the others' friendship tomorrow." I assured with a smile, which cheered Kodiak up. 

"Well alright." Kodi nodded before letting out a sigh. "Well I'm tucked out, wanna go and get the others and catch some Z's?"

"Yeah, lets go." I nodded before turning to Nicole, who took off her glasses and was about to settle in her new temporary bed. "Well...goodnight Nick."

".....Goodnight." With that, she let out a yawn before closing her eyes and went to sleep, having one of those bubbles popping out of her nose. I've seen that in anime and cartoon characters always dong that whenever they're sleeping. With that, me and Kodi left the room and into the elevator with Rantaro, who was busy with his phone. I still don't get why he would keep looking over that thing, I get because the home-ship has the strongest WiFi signal than all of us. Oh well...it's best not to divulge on that yet. 

Soon after, Rantaro headed back to his own room while me and Kodi arrived back to the shopping mall district, only to find out that they all were exhausted from all the investigation around this place. Heck, even Mason held his sister in his arms, who instantly fell asleep. Jack's face was covered with food stains on his face while Jamie had much more of a tired look than before. With that, we decided to uphold our investigation and talk about what we found in the morning. With that, we ended our investigation and went back to our respective rooms.

Me and Kodi headed back to my room while I looked over at the piece of paper in my hands, wondering what the contents of this letter means, especially at the end due to how much of this old smudge has. Man...this sucks...oh well, surely Twilight and the others can try to solve it.

"Feeling troubled, Ren?" Kodi asked, jumping onto my bed and laid next to me. 

"Yeah...just when we finally found some evidence on solving this mystery but this has to happen..." I sighed before placing the letter underneath my bed. "Oh well, I guess I'm gonna have to hopefully find more clues about this place."

"Yeah..." Kodi yawned before licking my nose, causing me to chuckle. "Well goodnight bro."

I smiled softly at Kodi before scratching him on his tummy, causing him to chuckle before I said "Yeah, goodnight bro."

With that, I closed my eyes and let my consciousness slipped into the darkness, going to sleep. Hopefully we can solve the mystery of this letter by tomorrow or so, as well as trying to make friends with Nicole Bonnie. Though I'll admit that her talent on reading other's and finding out their personalities, along seeing through their truth or lies, it's quite really impressive. Though maybe Carrie and Kodiak might have a point...what if she really is psychic?



The Next Day
....Mmmm, I soon got out of my bed and looked around to see that it was finally morning. Oh well, another day in Equestria where we can go around and learned valuable lessons. With that, me and Kodiak soon woke up as we headed over to the closet and I put on my regular attire, with the exception of my blue sweater since the season began to turn to Spring soon enough. 

We walked into the living room and straight into the dining room/kitchen as we saw everyone in there, all except one person.

"Huh? Where's Rantaro?" I asked, noticing that they weren't here.

Soon, Mason and Kaede came out wearing aprons carrying two trays each with plenty of food for breakfast. 

"I'm sorry but Rantaro went off to who knows where." Mason explained, settling the trays down. 

Kaede shook her head with a sigh and said "Jeez, that guy just loves being left alone."

"What you expect? That bastard is a broker, I still say we should tie him up and keep him quiet." Jack scoffed, gulping down his egg omelette in one gulp. I gave him a pleading look and said "Come on guys, we're all supposed to be friends. I still have faith in him."

"W-well...he is known for being the 'Shadow Broker' in the underworld society." Jamie pointed out, causing me to sigh heavily as everyone, including Nicole, settled down. 

"So anyway..." I spoke up as I continued "What did you guys find around the mall district area?"

Carrie immediately raised her hand with a bright grin and said "Oh! It was great! There was many food courts, shopping stores, a small playground and a movie theater!"

"A movie theater?!" I exclaimed in shock and joy. "Oh my god! So we have a movie theater here?!"

"Yeah, it was quite amazing to have one!" Kaede giggled with a grin. "Apparently, each of the movie theater rooms have a device that shows any type of movie you wish to see."

"I can confirm this. I checked up every room from top to bottom." Mason nodded, taking off his apron and settling it down on the chair he was seating. "So it would seem that we can view which type of movie we wish to watch."

"W-well...that's seem pretty useful." Jame softly smiled, writing it down in his notebook. "W-well anyway, so it would seem pretty useful."

"Okay, but what about the next room? Found anything useful?" Jack questioned me, causing me to blink in surprise before taking out the letter out of my pockets.

"Well yeah...we explored Nicole's room and found this on her desk..." I showed it to them as Kaede received it and tried to eat it, but returned a confused look.

"What the heck? There's too many smudges, I can barely read this!" Kaede exclaimed.

"Are you frigging kidding me?!" Jack exclaimed. 

"Really? Too many smudges?" Jamie asked as Kaede handed him the letter as he inspected it, rubbing his chin in thought. "Hmm...interesting...astonishing..."

"And what's so interesting and astonishing about a piece of scrap?" Jack questioned.

"Well it might be a clue." Jamie pointed out. "Whatever it said must be useful. Right now we need to find something to uncovered the smudges."

"Can't we use some ointment to get rid of them?" Carrie asked.

"No...it's not possible." We looked back at Nicole, who let out a yawn and had an exhausted look on her face. 

"What the hell have you been doing? Sleeping?" Jack questioned.

"Yes." She answered bluntly, causing him to give her a deadpanned look before saying "I was being-"

"Sarcastic, I know." She cut off as she furrowed her brows with a serious look on her face as she continued "But overall, it's best to keep that letter for safekeeping. If your friends are able to figure it out and have some ointment then maybe we might have a chance to figure it out."

"...Whatever." Jack blushed, glancing away from her. 

"By the way, I am quite curious to know more about this world." Nicole said, looking through her iPad. "It does seem quite weird seeing many new species, correct?"

"True." Mason nodded, crossing his arms. "But besides that, our new friends are quite friendly so-"

"Don't be afraid, I won't." She stated, startling him a bit. "I am quite eager to learn more about these guys."

"But she doesn't look like she's eager." Carrie whispered to Kaede, who nodded in agreement as she replied "Tell me about it."

"So...are we ready or not?" She asked curiously.

"Alright, well even so I should take my sister to school." Mason said, getting up from his chair. "She has an education to keep learning."

"Yep! And it's just fun having fun with Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle." Carrie giggled before grabbing her small backpack as the two began to take their leave. 

"Well...I got nothing else to do." Jack shrugged. "I'll go and see if old Skittles is in to hang out with me." 

He let out a loud burp, which made the rest of us to chuckle.

"Took the words right out of my mouth." Kodi chuckled.

"....." Nicole turned her head a bit away from us before letting out a yawn. Soon after, she began to take her leave, much to our surprise.

"H-hey! Wait for us Nikki!" I called, gaining confusion from the others upon from the name I gave her. "What? It's a nickname Rantaro came up, so I thought I could give it a try."

"Well alright then." Kaede giggled as the rest of us soon got up and began leaving the place, following after Nicole. Jamie soon walked forward towards with an excited look on his face and asked "H-hey, If you don't mind...if you I could ask you about your work..."

"Hmm...maybe another time." She replied, gazing at her iPad before looking around the scenery with an expressionless look before typing something into her iPad. Jeez, she's around a grassy land and sees Ponyville over by a distance, and yet she isn't surprised or...anything? Dang, she...really knows how to stay calm under a situation like this.

"O-oh...right. Sorry." Jamie apologized with a sad look. "I-I guess maybe she isn't in the mood, huh?"

"It would seem so." Kaede shrugged as we walked through the path where we saw Fluttershy's cottage off the distance, and Rainbow Dash was banging straight out of the door.

"Open up already! What's taking so long?!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed as the rest of us showed up. Nicole looked at Rainbow Dash with slightly widened eyes before asking "Is...there a problem, ma'am?"

"Yeah, just trying to get Fluttershy to come out for practice and-" The moment Rainbow Dash turned her head around, she jaw-dropped upon seeing Nicole. "W-what the?! Another human?!" 

"Yeah, that was our reaction." I pointed out. "Her name is Nicole Bonnie, she's a psychologist and just a new friend of ours that awakened in the home-ship like the rest of us."

"A psych-what?" Rainbow questioned.

"Psychologist are known for their studies in mental processes and human behavior by observing, interpreting, and recording how people relate to one another and the environment." Jamie explained. "It's a basic study on human or in this case, a pony's emotion." 

"Ahh..." Rainbow nodded before returning a blank look and replied "I still don't get it."

"Can't argue with that, Skittles." Jack shrugged, scratching his butt bashfully.

"It can't be that complicated...." Nicole stated, glancing towards Rainbow Dash. "You get used to learning about psychology."

"Yeah, I rather not become an egghead." Rainbow rolled her eyes before flying straight towards Nicole and observed her. "Jeez, you sure look plain."

Nicole went silent upon hearing that as I stepped forward and said "Dash, please be nice."

"What? Why-"

"Shouldn't I? Is that correct?" Nicole guessed, catching Rainbow by surprise.

"Yeah? How-"

"Did I figure that out? Was that you were gonna say?" Rainbow blinked in shock before asking "Okay, how-"

"Are you doing that?" 

"Okay, stop that! It's annoying!" Rainbow grunted.

"Trust us, she's quite unpredictable." Kaede sighed.

"So what's up? Why do you need Fluttershy?" Kodi asked curiously.

"Oh, there's gonna be a practice-meet for help with the highland reservoir source for Cloudsdale." Rainbow explained, confusing us all about it.

"A what?" I asked curiously.

"Oh right, you guys never heard about it. So you see, every year, we Pegasi worked together to create a tornado to fill up Cloudsdale with tons of rain-filled clouds to every corner of Equestria. By working together, we can create a Pegasi-driven tornado power to pull water out of the local reservoir and funnel it all the way up to Cloudsdale." Rainbow explained, which seemed to impressed us all.

"Amazing! That's gotta be quite unique!" Kaede smiled.

"Ha, I would like to see how it goes." Jack chuckled. "And it would makes for you to get into this, Skittles."

"Are you kidding, fatty? Of course I would!" Rainbow laughed. "Besides, maybe our new friend here could watch the event and see how it's done."

"Hmm...no thank you." Nicole answered bluntly, much to Rainbow's confusion.

"Wait what? Why?" Rainbow asked. "I mean, since you're new here I thought you might at least get a good view at our traditions and see Ponyville at least."

"No thank you." Nicole replied, much to Rainbow's irritation.

"Trust us, even we gave up trying to understand her." I shrugged with a sigh before smiling over Dash. "But the rest of us won't mind watching you guys do this."

"Damn straight! So what the heck not? Might get a chance to see your wings in action." Jack commented, earning a smile from Rainbow's face before she punched his shoulder and said "Ha! I knew I could count on you guys!"

"Umm...Rainbow Dash?" Jamie called. "This whole Pegasi-driven tornado power for extracting the water to Cloudsdale. You said that it's for filling up the clouds with water for rain, correct? Does it have to do with the upcoming season of Spring?"

"Well yeah, we do this every year." Rainbow said. "But it's not just about helping Cloudsdale onto their rain-filled clouds problem."

"It's not?" I asked. "What could be more important than that?"

"The record for making a powerful tornado!" Rainbow exclaimed in joy. "See, apparently that Spitfire, captain of the Wonderbolts will be here to oversee the water transfer and record our top tornado windspeed."

"Record your top tornado windspeed?" Kodi asked curiously. "How does that work?"

"Duh, whoever has the highest tornado windspeed will be remembered as legends! It could be my one step dream on becoming a Wonderbolt!" Rainbow flew around with a giddy look on her face. "Last year, Fillydelphia broke the windspeed record with a top speed of nine hundred and ten wing power!"

That caused all of us, excluding Nicole, to be shocked upon hearing that. No way, now that's gotta be real wing power there!

"No way! And you're gonna try to beat that record?!" Kaede exclaimed.

"Heck yeah! No way I'm gonna back away from this! That's why I came over to Fluttershy's cottage in order to get her to come out!" Rainbow explained with an excited grin before snorting and crossing her hooves. "But apparently she didn't show up for practice earlier ago and I'm still trying to get her to come out."

"Really? You want Fluttershy to compete in it as well?" I asked incredulous.

"Well duh, so-"

"You can try to convince her to help with the water tornado assortment and caused you want her to at least have fun, correct?" Rainbow gaped at Nicole's deductions before shaking her head and asked "Okay, how in Equestria did you figured that out?"

"Mouth movements, your face showing off some slight irritation and impatience, and your left wing was twitching a bit." Nicole answered, earning a confused look from Rainbow Dash as the former walked over and inspected her wings before looking over her iPad. "Interesting..."

"Holy cow...she's literally too calm to see this." Kodi whispered to me, which I nodded with a surprised look on my face. Seriously, are all psychologists this calm?  

"W-what are you doing?" Rainbow questioned.

"Just studying you..." Nicole answered before going silent, which made Rainbow to look at her with a raised brow before turning to us, which made us shrugged as well. 

"Riiight...." Rainbow raised a brow before turning away from her before knocking on Fluttershy's door. "Anyway, come on out Fluttershy! Come on out and try to come to practice!"

"Wait wait wait, what?" I asked in confusion and surprise. "You're gonna invite her to practice?"

"Yeah, what's so wrong about that?" Uhh...everything? I'm just nervous that you're gonna take Fluttershy to partake in this. I mean, will she even want to partake in it?

"U-umm....what if she doesn't want to participate in it?" Jamie questioned, also unsure about this. Rainbow rolled her eyes and replied "Oh please, of course she does! Besides, she can't keep living in fear every year when we try to do this!"

"Skittles' right." Jack nodded, crossing his arms. "If she keeps acting up like a spineless coward, she won't be able to fight back like you for example."

Jamie winced upon hearing Jack compare him to Flutterhsy.

"See? Even fatty has a point." With that, Rainbow kept banging on the door before exclaiming "Fluttershy? I know you're in there! You're avoiding tornado duty and I want to know why! Fluttershy, open-"

And just like that, the cottage's door slowly opened up, revealing Fluttershy with polka dots all over her body with a mask on her muzzle.

"Achoo!" She sneezed. "Hi, Rainbow Dash, hi Ren, hi Kodiak, hi Kaede, hi Jamie, hi Jack, hi new girl..." The moment she said that last part, she immediately turned to Nicole with a shocked look on her face. "N-n-new girl? New human?!"

"Yes." Nicole answered bluntly. "I'm Nicole Bonnie and you must be one of the ponies that's been accompanying them....I think."

"Y-yes? I'm-"

"Fluttershy, right?" Fluttershy widened her eyes in shock before stuttering "H-how did she-"

"Trust us, even we're confused by how she does it." I stated with a shrug before making a worried look and asked "Anyway Fluttershy, what happened to you? What's up with the spots?"

"Oh, I...*sniff*...I think I have...*cough**cough*...the pony pox." Fluttershy answered, paling a bit.

"Oh man, really?" I blinked with a worried look.

"So soon as well?" Kaede asked in surprise. "So suddenly?!"

"Y-yeah...*sniff**sniff*...I'm so sorry. I really, really wanted to come to training day today..." She let out another weak cough, prompting me to walk over and comforted her by holding onto her hoof with my hand, which made her smile before looking back at Rainbow Dash and said "But this pony pox has really knocked me for a loop."

Rainbow formed a sympathetic look at her and said "Oh, you poor thing. You know, there's only one cure for pony pox."

Fluttershy let out a sigh of relief before saying "You're right. Plenty of rest-"

Before she could finish, she was drenched with water which was from Rainbow Dash, who somehow held a bucket in her hands. Immediately, I looked to see the 'spots' were being wiped off, much to my shock. 

"Cold water!" Rainbow exclaimed with a glare. "Those pony pox are clearing right up."

"F-Flutters?!" I asked in shock. Fluttershy returned a sheepish smile before saying "Y-You know what? All of a sudden, I'm...I"m starting to feel better."

"Fluttershy...what's going on?" Jamie questioned with a raised brow. "I-I don't think I've seen act up like this..."

I have.

"W-well anyway, I should go and get my robe and-OW!" She immediately fell down as I bend down with a concerned look on my face as I asked "A-Are you okay?"

"Y-yeah...it's just my wing. Oh, ow, it's hurt." She winces before saying "I guess I can't fly after all..."

"She's lying." Nicole stated, furrowing her brows. "Apparently, she doesn't want to go to this practice you're talking about Ms. Rainbow Dash."

"Just call me Rainbow Dash." Rainbow stated with a blank look before turning to Fluttershy and demanded "And seriously Fluttershy? Messed up wing, huh? Stop horsing around, Fluttershy. We've got a lot of training to do!"

"Fluttershy..." I looked over at her with a worried look as I asked "What's wrong?"

"Yeah, it can't be that bad." Kodi said with a small smile. "I mean, what with flying through a giant tornado, being into the air, and..."

Fluttershy began shivering in fear before burrowing her face in my chest, causing me to give him a sweat-drop and a nervous smile as I replied "No offense boy, but I think you're just making things worse."

"Oops, sorry." Kodi grinned sheepishly.

"Seriously? What? You're afraid of flying?" Jack asked irritably. "It's simple as riding a motorcycle for goddamn's sake."

"B-but I just can't!" Fluttershy exclaimed, but it was just some muffling, which earned confused looks from the others.

"She's saying that she can't." I explained, which the others nodded in agreement.

"Wait, why?" Kaede asked, only to receive a groan from Rainbow Dash.

"Ugh...I think I know why." We turned to Rainbow Dash as she had a deadpanned look and said "It's because what happened back in Flight Camp."

"Oh..." I muttered, looking down at her as I remembered her conversation about Flight Camp, saying that she was bullied and taunted a lot for her weak flying. "I see now..." I patted her on the back, cheering her up a bit.

"Oh? Was this 'Flight Camp' so bad?" Nicole asked, feeling intrigued by this.

Fluttershy uncovered her chest and looks towards her with a small nod.

"Jeez, how bad?" Jack asked with slightly widened eyes.

"It wasn't bad. It was terrible!" Fluttershy yelled out. "All of those foals...teasing me, a lot! They always kept telling me 'Fluttershy, Fluttershy, Fluttershy can hardly fly!'"

I held her hoof and gave her a soft hug, calming her down a bit while Kodiak came over and licked her on the face, causing her to giggle at that.

"Oh, that's so cruel!" Kaede exclaimed, feeling terrible for Fluttershy.

"I-I see...it really was that bad..." Jamie said with a sad look on his face.

"What are you talking about? Just last week you went into that wicked nose dive to save that falling baby bird before it hit the ground!"

Fluttershy immediately shook her head and retorted "But that was different, that was an emergency! This whole tornado thing, it's more like a performance, and you know how I hate performing in front of others."

"Was this from your Flight Camp experience?" Nicole questioned, which she nodded. 

"Yes, I didn't want anypony to just look at me weirdly or mocking me!" Fluttershy cried out. "I just can't risk that sort of humiliation again!"

"Don't worry Flutters, I'm here for you." I comforted her with a soft kiss on the cheek, causing her to blush a bit with a smile on her face.

"At least you get it Ren." Fluttershy smiled softly until hearing a scoff from Jack.

"Oh please, that's just ridiculous and I thought Jamie's reason of being a coward was plain pathetic." Jamie flinched at Jack's words, feeling that comment stung a bit, along with Fluttershy. 

"Jack!" Kaede scolded.

"I-it's alright Kaede...I'm used to it." Jamie insisted, glancing downwards with a sad look.

"No! Fatty's right!" Rainbow nodded, turning over to Fluttershy and said "You have to suck it up, Fluttershy! This is no time for-"

"Are you seriously gonna keep being trapped in a chain of your traumatic experience?" Huh? Nicole? We all looked over to her as she held a serious look on her face as she continued "You need to conquer that fear that tightens around your heart or else it'll remained trapped and you'll be afraid of the world."

"N-Nicole?" I asked in surprise before she glanced away and stated "I understand if you're afraid Ms. Fluttershy, but you need to relax and calm down. And don't worry, I'm sure you'll show most of your classmates like Billy, Dumbbell, and Hoops that you aren't afraid of doing this if you manage to train your body for it."

Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash widened their eyes in shock upon hearing that as the former hesitantly asked "H-how...how do you know that?"

".....Hm?" She asked, tilting her head in confusion.

"She means how in Equestria do you know those names?! She didn't even tell you the names of her classmates from Flight Camp at all!" Rainbow exclaimed in anger and shock. Nicole went silent before turning her head away a bit and said "...You know what? Forget what I said. I'm sure it wasn't important..."

With that, she began walking off while we stood in surprise. Oh my god, this girl really unpredictable, am I right?

"...Riiiight." Rainbow looked back at Fluttershy and said "She might have a point. I mean, confidence or no confidence, I'm gonna need every Pegasus to break the record, including you. I need every ounce of wing power I can get."

"You seemed pretty determined on accomplishing it." I commented, which made Rainbow nodded with a smile on her face.

"Course I am! I need to beat this record so that the Wonderbolts would be impress by my skills! It's the perfect plan, am I right?!"

"B-but...is it really that important?" Jamie questioned, earning a dramatic gasp from Dash herself.

"I'm just gonna pretend that I did not hear that Jamie!" Rainbow scoffed. "I'm gonna beat that record and I won't back down from it!"

"Yeah, at least give Skittles a chance." Jack said, glaring at Jamie as glanced away sadly and apologized "I-I'm sorry..."

"Oh, I-I don't think so, Rainbow Dash..." Fluttershy said, exiting out of my arms with an unsure and depressed look on her face. Fortunately for her, Rainbow Dash had a disappointed look on her face and said "Thanks anyway."

Rainbow Dash soon began to take flight and planned to leave until I noticed Fluttershy biting her upper lip, like she wanted to say something. Soon, I let out a shout.

"Hey Rainbow Dash! Wait!" Rainbow stopped in her tracks before looking back and flew in front of me and asked "Yes?"

"Well....maybe if Fluttershy comes with me, then maybe she'll be a bit encouraged by that?" I suggested, which made Fluttershy smiled a bit. "Don't you think so Flutters?"

"W-well..." Fluttershy looked away from us with a worried look before looking back at us with a soft smile. "Alright. I'll do it."

"You will?" Rainbow asked with a raised brow.

"I will."

"You're game?"

"I'm game."

"Alright!" Rainbow flew into the air with an excited look on her face, yelling that word out. 

"Fluttershy, are you sure about this?" Kaede asked in worried.

"Yeah, you don't have to do this." Kodi added, feeling concern for his friend.

"But...I have to try. After all, you all might help me out..." Fluttershy smiled, which made most of us smiled. Well I guess that's a relief. "And thank you for encouraging me Ren, and I'll thank that nice lady later for giving me that advice."

"Well anytime Flutters." I chuckled. Well I'm glad that she's feeling better and I am curious to see this wind-powered tornado these guys are gonna make. I know that Pegasi are known for their weather-controlling powers, so I want to see how they do it.



Later
Wow, that's a lot of Pegasi. I didn't even know that we have this many here in Ponyville. Sooner or later, we finally arrived to a track & field area just northeast of the town and a bunch of Pegasi were lined up in front of the track while I noticed Twilight and Spike working on some sort of electric fan. Kaede, Jack, Jamie, Kodiak, Fluttershy, and I were seen standing right next to the Pegasi group, though some of them gazed towards Jack, who noticed it and always shut them up with a hard glare. I guess even being here for who knows how long and yet they didn't get to know some of us yet. 

Soon, I noticed two pair of ponies, who seemed to be twins due to have the same mane color and tail, but with different mane-styles, and had the same fur coat as they walked over to Twilight and Spike as one of the twins pointed over to the small electric fan and asked "What exactly does this machine do?"

"This is an anemometer. It measures your accelerative velocity and translates it into wing power, thus gauging your cumulative H2O anti-gravitational potential." Twilight explained, earning confused looks from all of us, except Jamie as he fully understood what it mean. "Any other questions?"

"Yeah." The second twin nodded before turning to Spike as the two twins had confused looks and asked "What exactly does this machine do?"

Spike glances towards them and answered "It tells you how fast you're fast you're flying and how strong your wings are."

"Ohhh...Okay...I see...." The Pegasi group nodded with smiles on their faces, fully understanding the invention while Twilight's left eye twitch before face-hooving herself. Jamie walked over and had a sympathy smile and said "I-it's alright Twilight. I-I understood everything you said."

Twilight returned a smile towards him, feeling a bit better while the rest of us just walked over to her as Twilight greeted "Oh hey you guys, I'm so glad that you're here."

"Yeah, Dash told us the news." I replied with a smile. "Oh yeah, you're not gonna believe it but we encountered another human."

Twilight widened her eyes in shock before pulling me close towards her face when she levitated me over to her.

"Are. You. Serious?! Another human here in Equestria?!" I nodded, answering Twilight's question before beaming with excitement. "Ooooh! This is so amazing! Another one of your kind here in our world! This is so exciting! Quick, where are they?!"

"She flew the coop." Jack answered with a scoff. "That woman just left us in the dust like it was nothing."

"Really?" Twilight asked incredulous, including Spike who seemed to be interested in this.

"Yeah, she was quite...weird for how she took it, including her psychology works." Kaede rubbed her head bashfully before we noticed the bright grin on Twilight's face.

"Oh! So she's a psychologist?! This is extraordinary! I can't wait to interview her with many questions about her occupation and what she works on!" Twilight exclaimed in excitement while the rest of us looked at each other with worried. 

"That's gonna be a problem due to her personality." Kodi muttered.

"Yeah, but hopefully she's cooperative." I sighed before we heard a cough coming from behind, causing us to look back and saw somepony coughing.

"Ugh." Twilight groaned before taking out some sort of spray can out of nowhere as it was floating by using her magic as she turned to a black pony with a light blue Mohawk style mane. "Is that you again, Thunderlane? Please, we need to have a germ-free environment."

She moved over to the pony, fully known as Thunderlane, which is quite a cool name I'll admit unlike the others as Twilight sprayed the can on him, much to his irritation.

"It wasn't me, it was Blossomforth." He pointed over to the mare next to him, which made her surprise.

"Tch...wimps." Jack rolled his eyes.

"Oh man, looks like they got some colds." Kaede pointed out. "I just hope that they won't get sick."

That's what I'm worried about too. Though...why do I have this bad feeling about this?

"Yo!" We soon saw Rainbow Dash flying down onto the track with a coach's hat and whistle on her as she said "I got here as sooner as I can! Just needed my stuff."

"Your coaching them?" Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion.

"Duh!" Rainbow grinned. "I'm the captain of the Ponyville Weather Team, so it would make sense."

"Ha, you? Coaching these bastards?" Jack joked, ignoring the angry glares sent to him. "I probably be a better student than them."

"Yeah sure fatty, when you're a Pegasus." Rainbow chuckled, ignoring the scowl from the biker himself. "Anyway, don't worry Twilight. Thunderlane's just cooking up an excuse to spend tornado day in bed."

"Hey!" Thunderlane shouted in offense.

"W-why would she say that?" Jamie whispered to me and Jack, which the latter replied "It's a way to encourage suckers like them because most people or ponies have short-tempers."

Sorta like you dude.

"Which reminds me, we should probably do our annual training later today when Mason's get back." Jack grinned, causing the both of us to gulp and sweat-dropped. I almost forgot that we've started doing that weeks ago. Oh man, not another one of those tiring exercises that nearly makes me wanna die...

"Why don't you get over here and be our first test flyer, Thunderlane?" We looked over to see Thunderlane stepping up to the plate as he stood next to the fan-like invention as he prepared to practice with it. Though there was one question that filled our minds...how exactly does it work?

Soon, he got into a racing position before rapidly flapping his wings and went off, going through the fan-like invention as it began spinning around till it stopped as Twilight observed the monitor on it.

"We have 9.3 wing power." Twilight answered, earning impressed looks by us.

"Wow! That's fast!" Kaede exclaimed in awe. "But I bet not as nearly as fast as Rainbow Dash."

"Of course!" Rainbow grinned cockily. "Nopony can take down this pony in a race!" 

"Wanna bet?" Jack joked, earning a glare from the rainbow Pegasus herself.

"Alright, prepare to be amaze and get your sorry butt apologizing Jack." Rainbow chuckled darkly before flying over to the starting line, and began stretching her hooves and wings before flapping rapidly and immediately dashed off towards it, and once she did, it spun out of control as she created a strong blast of wind towards us, causing us all to stand firmly on the ground until I noticed Fluttershy unable to stand in her ground and was about to be blown away until I immediately caught her by the hooves.

"O-oh! T-thank you Ren!" Fluttershy said with a smile and blush. I nodded before looking over at Twilight looked at the monitor with a shocked and yet excited look on her face, even her mane was all frazzled out.

"16.5 wing power!" We all gasped before letting out a cheer while Jack jaw-dropped upon seeing that happened.

"Ha ha! You like that?" Rainbow grinned before she slugged Jack's right shoulder, causing him to grumble in anger.

"S-shut up Skittles.." He blushed a bit, feeling embarrassed that he was proven wrong.

"That's so amazing!" Kaede said in awe and glee. "I know that Rainbow Dash was fast, but I never knew she can go that fast!"

"Yeah! Sonic the Hedgehog Style!" I added with a surprised look. Seriously though, does anyone out there know how to get Sonic because if he was here, he would compete this pony in a race to see who's the fastest? I think there was even a Youtube video about it the two fastest blue blurs facing off against each other in a race once, right? I'm not being crazy, right?

"You betcha!" Rainbow grinned excitedly.

"Amazing, this anemometer is quite astonishing Twilight." Jamie said in awe, copying the description and such onto one of his new notebooks that he gotten from Santa. "Tell me, how did you prepare this?"

"Well Rainbow Dash and the other Pegasi held a meeting at the library late at night and so me and Spike worked on it all day. Sorry if you missed out on the fun." Twilight apologized with a soft smile.

"No no, it's quite alright. It's understandable what with meeting with the new ally of ours and such..." Jamie blushed a bit. Gosh, I never seen him this excited before...like I think I rarely hear him not stuttering about anything. I guess because he's excited and quite curious about that anemometer Twilight made.

"He sure is happy, eh Ren?" Kodi chuckled, which I smiled and nodded at that.

"Now listen up!" We all turned to Rainbow Dash with a serious look on her face. "If each of you can get your numbers up to at least 10.0 wing power by the end of the week, we'll no doubt set a new tornado speed record. We'll be number one!"

"YEAH!" Whoa, what the heck?! We looked back to see that caught my eye and shocked us all. We gaze upon a tall white Pegasus that makes you think 'God, this pony sure didn't miss leg day' for sure because he has those bulking biceps and muscles all over his body! I mean, look at it, do you see anypony with huge muscles like that!

"Holy crap!" I yelled out. "Look at the size of that guy!"

"Yeah, I think that guy could possibly be as strong as Mason or Jack." Kaede added.

"Somepony we should definitely stepped away from." Kodi whispered, which some of us agreed. Though...he doesn't act like Jack just because of his bulk and he isn't fat, so he could possibly be friendly...despite his loud vocal chords.

"Oh, that's Bulk Biceps." Fluttershy answered. "I've seen him many times over by the spa and he's quite a good at giving customers a massage."

"Really?" I asked in surprise. So this pony works by the Ponyville Spa and gives customers some massages? Well I never seen noticed the guy at all, but hearing about this....makes me want to keep a mental note about watching out for this guy if any of us goes to the spa.

"Am I late?" Huh? Oh hey, it's Mason! He was seen walking towards us with a soft smile seen through his long red scarf as I happily greeted him back.

"Oh hey Mason, you just arrived to see Rainbow coaching these guys for some water reservoir event." Mason smiled a bit and replied "Well...I'm glad I didn't miss it. I came searching for you guys on where you might've been after I delivered Carrie to the Ponyville school."

"Heh heh, well we kinda got some change of plans." Kaede rubbed her head bashfully with a sheepish smile on her face until Mason noticed that we are missing a little someone.

"Hm? Where is Nicole? Surely you didn't lose her?" 

"We didn't lose her...she just wandered off after we arrived in front of Fluttershy's cottage." Kodi explained before adding "And I gotta say, there is seriously up with her. I am not denying that she might be psychic."

"Please." Mason rolled his eyes before petting him on the head. "I know that we've seen weird stuff all over this place, but it's not possible that a psychologist can literally be psychic."

I don't know about that for sure. I mean, she literally knew about Dumbbell, Hoops, and Billy names, one of the ponies that teased Fluttershy back at Flight Camp when she was little, so I wouldn't say that it's not 'possible' or maybe farfetch'd that she can psychic.

"Though I am quite concern for Nicole." Kaede stated, feeling concerned for her. "I think I should go on and look for her."

"Good idea Kay." I said with a soft smile. "Just be careful."

"Aren't I always?" She giggled before she began running off, leaving us boys behind while we decided to observe Rainbow Dash coaching these guys onto creating a powerful wind with Jamie, Twilight, and Spike working together to monitor each Pegasi's speed limit.

Me, Jack, Fluttershy and Mason were seen sitting down a nearby bench as we watched each Pegasi one by one testing out and seeing their wing power.

"Man...it's been nearly an hour. What's taking so long?" Jack groaned.

"Be patient Jack. You need to learn to calm that temper of yours." Mason stated, sitting in a criss-cross position before stretching a bit. I looked over to my right to see Kodiak playing around with Nate and Maddy, the Squirrel Twins, as they were seemingly having fun.  

"I am CALM!" Jack grunted angrily, causing me to sweat-dropped at that comment. Since when did I ever seen him calm besides yesterday's adventure to the Dragon Lands.

"You two need to calm down." I sighed. "Come on, we're supposed to be friends and we can't just sit around and keep arguing all day."

"He's right." Mason nodded in agreement, which made Jack sighed.

"Y-you're right....I'll take ya on that offer kiddo." Jack blew some of his air upwards before his top bangs landed back on his forehead, causing me to chuckle a bit. You know, despite his rough behavior as a biker, he's not so much of a bad guy. 

Soon, I heard a long sigh from Fluttershy as I turned to her and saw that she was feeling down in the dumps.

"You okay Flutters?" I asked in concern, only to receive a shook from her head. "Do you wanna talk about it? If not, then I understand if it's uncomfortable."

"No Ren...it's not that. It's just that..." Fluttershy gazed over to see Rainbow Dash talking with one of the participants about something. Soon, she let out another heavy sigh with a sad look on her face and said "I wanna help them out so bad."

"So why not do it?" I asked in confusion. "If I knew you really didn't want to go, I wouldn't have say anything nor you changing your mind about Rainbow's offer."

"I-I just don't want Rainbow Dash to feel disappointed in me...I'm just useless." Fluttershy gazes down on the park bench with a sad look on her face until I placed my hand on her hoof, grabbing her attention as I gave her a determined look.

"Don't feel bad Fluttersh, I have faith in you. I know that you can show them all that you're the best pony ever and like NIcole stated earlier, you just need to conquer that fear in you."

Fluttershy looked at me for a while before softly smiling.

"Oh Ren..." Heh heh, so this is what romance feels like? It...sorta feels weird doing this in real life, I'll admit. Fluttershy is known for being this town's local animal caretaker and maybe I rarely see her take to the skies like fifty feet into the air, but I have faith that she can do it.

"Fluttershy, your turn." With the sound of her whistle, we looked over to see Rainbow Dash waiting impatiently for her.

"Oh! R-right! Coming Rainbow Dash!" Fluttershy called before directing her attention to me. "I gotta go! Wish me luck Ren."

With that, she kissed me on the nose which caught me by surprise as she immediately flew over there while I blinked in surprise and blushed a bit. Man, it feels kinda weird being kissed by a pony, but hey, this is love here people so it doesn't matter.

"You alright?" Jack laughed, causing me to snap out of my thoughts and flushed in embarrassment while Mason gave me a small grin. "Because I think your girlfriend really sure knows how to make you blush!"

"H-hey! Knock it off you guys!" I exclaimed, getting more laughter from the biker as he fell off his seat and continued to laugh over that.

"Well so it would seem that Fluttershy seems to be only encouraged by you alone." Mason mused, adding more embarrassment to me.

"Mason!" Seriously? You guys suck.

Soon, I looked back at Fluttershy about to perform her wing power test. Soon, she got to the starting line and weakly flapped her wings before she slowly began flying over to the fan, and it barely moved. I then noticed a bunch of ponies from earlier snickering upon seeing Fluttershy's flying, causing me to frown towards them. Jeez, like they don't know about being humiliated. 

As soon as Fluttershy past through the anemometer, Jamie looked over at the monitor before forming a worried look and whispered something to Twilight, who returned a shocked look on her face before gesturing Rainbow to come close, which she did as she whispered something into the Pegasus's ear, causing her to feel worried. Oh no...don't tell me that...

"Um...great job, Fluttershy!" Rainbow weakly grinned at her as Fluttershy held a small hopeful grin on her face. "You measured, uh...uh, .5."

....A .5? Her wing power is...a .5?! Are you kidding right now?!

"Well...that's an embarrassment, even for her." Jack said bluntly, earning two glares from me and Mason towards him.

".5? Isn't that like...less than one?" Spike questioned, earning a whack in the head by Twilight, who gave him a stern look. "OW!"

"W-what?" She squeaked in shock before looking around to see many Pegasi looking at her with smiles, causing her to pant heavily and tears began to form in her eyes. I got up from my bench and tried to help her as I called "Fluttershy?"

With that, she broke into tears before immediately flying off in humiliation. 

"Fluttershy, wait!" Rainbow called. "So some punks poked a little fun at you and you got stage fright, big deal. You aren't gonna go quit just because of that, are you?"

"Yes!" She replied back as me, Kodiak, Mason, and Jack chased after her. Oh man, this is bad! To think that her fears would come back fearing her at least, now this is bad! But unbeknownst to us, a familair fedora wearing figure was seen watching us from afar with a slight frown on his face as he watched Fluttershy fly back home in tears, causing him to sigh and shook his head.

"Can't even fight back the past, eh Gizmo?"

Gizmo popped right out of his hat and looked at Rantaro with a sympathetic look, causing him to roll his eyes and replied "I don't need sympathy. We've been through this Gizmo."

Gizmo nuzzled his face, making Rantaro smirk before giving him a high-five. "Thanks I guess." With that, he began walking away until he let out a mutter.

"Now to find little miss mind-reader..."



Later
"Flutters?" I knocked on the door, waiting so eagerly yet anxious to see her. After that little practice meet, we followed after her to check up on her, especially since we just seen her cried in humiliation and is probably too depressed. I...just wanna check up on her.

"Are we even sure she's even in there?" Kodi asked before we heard a loud crying coming out of her house.

"You think?" Jack asked sarcastically. 

"Look guys, we need to get her attention and try to help her." I stated, not wanting any of us to argue right now, especially not in a time like this. I kept banging on her door, but all I heard was more crying. I let out a sigh before saying "Oh well, guess it's time for plan B."

"And that would be?" Mason raised a brow as I walked around the cottage, with the others following me as we looked around at her big backyard before noticing her over by the giant tree as she was seen crying so hard and with the other animals giving her sympathetic looks and comforting her. "Wait, you knew that she might be here?"

"Yeah, she once showed me this place a while back." I nodded, earning a confused look from Kodiak.

"But wait, why didn't you bring that up?" Kodi questioned.

"Because it would be rude to just go around the back, but this is just an exception because she's feeling too depressed." I replied with a shrug, earning a face-palm from them.

"Just shut the hell up and go to your girl." Jack grunted impatiently, which made me nervously chuckle upon hearing Jack call her 'my girl'. It sorta makes me feels embarrassed.

"Fluttershy?" I called, causing her to raise her head out of the ground with a sad look on her face while the animals looked at us with worriedness.

"H-hi Ren...Mason...Kodiak...Jack..." She placed her head back onto a ground and continued to cry out as we past some of the critters as I sat down next to her and placed my hand on her hoof with a sympathetic look.

"Hey, don't feel bad Fluttershy. I mean, sure you got humiliated but hey, I humiliate myself from time and time again back in my world and here, so there's no need for all the crying." I said, earning blank looks from Mason and Jack and a chuckle and amused smile from Kodiak.

"Oh yes, he sure has." 

"Many as I can frigging count, especially yesterday."

"I don't know, I wouldn't say from time to time, Ren."

I gave the three a nervous chuckle while I rubbed my head bashfully until I felt Fluttershy holding me tight, plunging her face into my chest.

"W-what?" I blurted out in surprise as Fluttershy cried "I'm such a failure! I can't make more wing power! My own wing power is .5! I-I-I can't do it Ren! I can't do it in front of those other ponies nor help out with making the tornado! I can't take it anymore!" 

"Fluttershy..." I muttered, hugging her back. "I understand how you feel....you're upset and so am I. But you can't just give up so easily."

"Exactly my point. That's just what a coward would've done." Jack rolled his eyes.

"Ren has a point, Fluttershy." Mason nodded in agreement. "You need to help out and conquer that fear that you've been holding back. You know that not everypony is gonna make fun of you."

"I-I know...but I just can't face the humiliation!" Fluttershy cried out as I gave her a sympathetic look before noticing the rest of the animals coming out of their hiding spots and looked at Fluttershy with sympathetic looks. Nate and Maddy popped out of Mason's scarf and took out some acorns before placing it down on the ground for Fluttershy, which she noticed as she let out a soft smile towards them.

"Oh, thank you, but I'm afraid a couple of little acorns won't solve my big flying problem."

Soon, a duck let out some quacking but Fluttershy was able to translate what he said.

"I tried, but you should've seen those ponies laughing at me..." Fluttershy cried.

A couple of birds flew and landed on my head and began chirping at Fluttershy.

"I know it's important to have confidence in myself..."

A badger walked over and let out a squeak, and made some gestures making Fluttershy smiled.

"Yes, yes, I do remember. The river was swelling..." The badger let out another squeak as Fluttershy translated "...and you were scared...."

"And he also says to never give up and to believe in yourself." Mason added, earning surprised looks from the rest of us.

"How did you know?" I asked in surprise. 

"After spending time with my friends..." Mason gestured to Nate and Maddy as he picked them both up and looked at them with a soft smile. "I've started to learn what they say by the heart."

"Besides that, you heard what the badge said." Jack looked at Fluttershy with a serious look as he crossed his arms and said "You gave him some advice and it's time you follow it."

"Yeah, what good to give others advice if you don't take it yourself?" Kodi added.

"Exactly Flutters. That's why you gotta believe in yourself and not wrapped yourself in a veil of traumatic experiences of flying like Nicole said." I smiled over her before hugging her tight and said "No matter what, we'll do this together in order to help perfect your speed."

Fluttershy hugged me back before letting out a confident smile and said "You're right, my friends. I shouldn't give up."

"Now that's the spirit!" I chuckled.

"You can do it Fluttershy!" Kodi smirked. Soon, Fluttershy got out of my arms and flew through the tree we were underneath as we got up and saw her way at the top as she exclaimed "I will get my confidence up and show everypony that I am a good flyer! A great flyer!"

All the critters let out cries in agreement while the rest of us looked at each other with smiles on our faces.

"Well then..." Mason crossed his arms with a small smile on his face. "Let's get to work then, shall we?"

"One step ahead of you there, bro." Jack grinned as I looked at the guys with a soft smile. Yeah, we can totally do this...for her.

And soon, we began helping Fluttershy onto conquering her fear of flying and to increase her wing power. With our help and support, along with her woodland critter friends, we'll make her from being shy and timid to strong-willed and brave!...Just not as she was from when she took one of Iron Will's seminars.

Soon, we were over by the riverside as Fluttershy was stretching her legs, and to top it off, she was wearing some headbands to make herself look like she's training. |

"Are you ready Flutters?" I asked with a smile.

She gave me a serious yet determined smile and replied "Ready!"

With that, training began as she tried to fly through the air as animals, Nate, Maddy, and Kodiak were seen below her as they held masks based off of the ponies we've seen over by Ponyville. We're trying to boost her confidence and hopefully conquer her fear of stage fright. Unfortunately, the moment she saw the masked animals, she widened her eyes and covered her eyes in fear, but not before crashing straight into a tree, which caused us all to wince before seeing her get stuck in the root of the tree. She glances back at us before covering her eyes, feeling embarrassed that she got herself stuck.

"...I'll go help her." Jack scoffed, walking over and tried to help out.

"This might take a while." I muttered loudly, which the other animals, Kodi, and Mason nodded in agreement.

We moved towards doing push-ups as Mason, Jack, Fluttershy, and I were doing our best in hopes of boosting Fluttershy's confidence. Well Fluttershy got it easy what with using her wings instead of hooves. I guess that's how Pegasi do push-ups, am I right?
Although, it was a bit difficult upon doing these push-ups. Not just because it was too hard, but the animals, including Kodiak, were on our backs. 

"Don't give up Flutters! You can do it!" Kodi cheered while I gave him a tired and deadpanned look because he was mainly on my back and Fluttershy was next to him. 

"Seriously?" I asked incredulously. Dang it, why is it that they get the smaller animals, but I'm stuck here with him. No offense but I think I like him back when he was a pup. However, the animals placed back their masks on, frightening Fluttershy as she got out of her push-up position, causing the animals to face-palm. Hang in there Fluttershy, you can do it!

The next exercising event was a tug-of-war event as Fluttershy was doing this with a....butterfly. Shouldn't be too hard right?

"Ha, this is probably gonna be a piece of cake." Jack grinned as Fluttershy tried her best to tug the rope from the butterfly, but the animals in front of her pulled back on their masks, frightening Fluttershy as she lost all of her strength and fell straight into the mud with a disappointed look on her face while the rest of us sighed heavily and face-palmed.

"Or not..."

And after a few push-up sessions, sit-ups sessions, stretching out our arms and legs, Fluttershy flew around the trees with a serious yet nervous look on her face, and soon she passed by us, including the animals donning their ponies mask. I let out a smile in approval of her not panicking upon seeing them. She's getting the hang of it at least.

She started doing the push-ups again, but she glances towards us with a frightful look as she was doing her push-ups on a pool of her own tears. I'm not sure if its a pool made from her tears of joy or sad. 

Soon, we were back with the tug-of-war and this time, she started to get better on pulling that rope from those two butterflies. However, she began struggling again and was pulled by them, which gave us incredulous looks. I understand that Fluttershy might not be the strongest pony, but this is just ridiculous.

Soon after, she began improving herself as she breeze right through us with a determined look, and she wasn't even fazed or frightened upon seeing the animals and I looking straight at her. That gotten me a smile on my face. 

She even managed to keep doing her push-ups more faster with us, and I've been improving too...okay, maybe not but I suck at doing push-ups, alright? I soon noticed Fluttershy about to tear up, but one look from my face along with a smile gave her a boost of confidence as she sucked that tear right back up like it was nothing.

"Whoa..." Me and Kodi muttered in surprise. That's BA right there. She even managed to pull a whole flock of butterflies with tug-of-war. She looks back at the tree out of worried but saw that the butterflies were still okay, bringing a smile on her face.

"Whoa! You did it Flutters!" I called out with a bright grin on my face.

"Ha! Guess that was quicker than I thought!" Jack laughed.

"Now you're ready for the big test!" Kodi added before asking "But are you sure you're ready?"

Fluttershy smiled towards us before flying through a field of dandelions, and flew straight into the air with the sun shining all over her body as she yelled "I was born ready!"

Me and the others looked at each other with smiles, happy to finally see Fluttershy finally have the confidence to show the others that she isn't weak! Now if only we could do that for Jamie, oh well...guess that'll be another time for when we do another fast training session.

"Alright..." I walked towards to Fluttershy as she flown back down to the ground as I gave her a determined smile and exclaimed "Let's go back to the park and show them all!"

"Yeah!" Fluttershy cheered before tightly hugging me, catching me by surprise before I hugged her back. Soon after ten seconds of hugging each other, we both let go of each other with blushes on our faces and trying our best to ignore the laughter and happy sighs from the animal critters, Jack, Kodiak, Nate, and Maddy. Mason held a small smirk on his face while Angel on the other hand...well let's just say that he wasn't amused that Fluttershy is showering me with all of her love and kind heart. Well I didn't mean it...even in front of an animal like you.



Later
All right, now with Fluttershy feeling more confident than ever, we can finally help her participate in the wind-powered tornado Rainbow is trying to make everyone do. Soon, we arrived back to the practice meet as one of the Pegasi ponies were just finishing up their practice. 

"Ahh, excellent speed." Jamie copied some notes down on his journal before muttering "With this much speed, I think Cloudsdale might have a chance on transporting the water supply by forming a tornado."

"That I agree too Jamie." Twilight smiled, earning a blush from Jamie. As we walked by with a confident Fluttershy, I saw Kaede along with Rantaro and Nicole as they were busy minding their own business, not interested onto seeing the Pegasi practicing and testing their wing power as Rantaro was leaning against the tree with Gizmo by his side as he was looking over his phone while Nicole was on her iPad doing...something. 

"Yo!" Jack called, gaining some of the others' attention.

"Oh hey you guys!" Kaede greeted with a smile. "I was wondering where you've guys been."

"It's a long story." I rubbed my head bashfully with a sheepish grin before saying "But we're here for Fluttershy."

"Oh, so she's gonna do it?" I nodded before gazing at Rantaro and Nicole, who were minding their own businesses quietly. "So they came along for the ride?"

"Yeah, apparently she was seen over by Sugarcube Corner and made some ponies feel surprise by her speaking before they could get the chance." Kaede rubbed her head with a sweat-drop while I raised a brow at that. Well...why am I surprised by this point? She can literally know what we're gonna say. "Rantaro saw us by and forcefully came with us back here to the track to watch the other Pegasi trained themselves."

"Does Twilight know that they're here or even introduce herself to Nicole?" Mason asked curiously.

"She has and Twilight and Spike were quite baffled by how she knew what they were gonna say and found out about the anemometer." Kaede chuckled. "I think some ponies were starting to feel slightly concerned for her."


To be honest, I can't blame them to feel concerned for her like that. Soon, Mason's pet squirrels jumped out of Mason's scarf and landed onto Jamie's head, causing him to flinch in fear. 

"W-what?" Jamie asked as the two squirrels started chattering, which confused him, Twilight, and Spike.

"Umm...what are they saying?" Spike asked.

Twilight gave him a deadpanned look before saying "Do we look like we speak squirrel?"

Ha ha...Powerpuff girls reference there. 

"They're saying that she's ready." Mason answered, much to their confusion.

"S-she?" Jamie questioned until they saw Fluttershy flying over with a serious and determined look on her face before she landed on the starting line as the rest of us watched over with exciting, amused, and happy grins on our faces.

"Go on Flutters! You can do it!" I yelled.

"Don't back down!" Kodi added, causing the others to let out cheers while Fluttershy turned to me with a nod and smile before she flapped her wings rapidly and began speeding up and blasting through the track and went past us, along with the anemometer. We all let out cheers while Rantaro and Nicole went silent as Fluttershy flew back and looked at the anemometer.

"That was downright awesome!" Kodi exclaimed. "Now I bet Fluttershy is 5 times faster than before!"

"You can say that again." I nodded in agreement.

"W-what?!" Huh? What's wrong with Fluttershy? I mean, she now sounds upset than before. "2.3? 2.3?! That has to be some kind of mistake! I worked so hard!"

"What?!" I exclaimed in shock. "2.3?!" 

But she trained so hard all afternoon, so how?!

"You gotta be crapping me right now." Jack groaned.

"You can't be serious." Mason face-palmed himself.

"Well don't worry Fluttershy, at least you gave it your all, right?" Kaede chuckled nervously.

"K-Kaede has a point. That's a huge improvement from your previous wing power level." Jamie agreed with a soft smile.

"Yeah! You did awesome Fluttershy." Rainbow nudged her with a grin but not before we saw tears flowing in Fluttershy's eyes.

"No, I didn't. I thought I'd gotten over my nerves, but they still got the best of me! There's no way I'll fly with 10.0 wing power tomorrow!"

Rainbow rolled her eyes and replied "So you won't fly with 10.0 wing power. Every bit counts!"

"How would you feel if everypony else was flying with 10.0 wing power and you were flying with 2.5?!" Fluttershy retorted tearfully.

"Actually, it was only 2.3 and-OW!" Jack whacked Spike upside the head with an angry glare, which caused Spike to chuckle nervously with a sheepish grin.

"You know, she has a point." Rantaro shrugged, earning glares from the others while I ignored Rantaro's comment and looked at Fluttershy with a worried look. Oh Fluttershy...

"It is true." Nicole agreed, looking over at her iPad. "While you all may think it's no big deal...it is. Flying with a wing power of 2.3 and creating a tornado of 10.0 is extremely dangerous, even for someone like her for example."

"Well, uh...I'd feel...um..." Rainbow Dash was at loss for words until Nicole "Don't or else you'll make the problem worse than before for her."

"Well still..." Twilight turned to the new human woman with a slightly worried look. "I know that we may have met but-"

"Are you even sure that she could do it? Am I right?" Nicole stated, startling Twilight upon hearing what she was about to say.

"W-well...okay that's what I was gonna say." Twilight chuckled nervously before mumbling "Though I don't know how in Equestria does she does that?"

"What I'm stating..." She takes off her glasses and wipes them with a tissue from her pocket. "Is that Ms. Fluttershy is feeling embarrassed, upset, and irritated that she could've gotten a better level on her wing power, but that just increased by the percentage of 1.8."

"Now hold on a minute!" Rainbow exclaimed. "I'm sure with more practice, she'll-"

"No Rainbow Dash, it won't!" We all turned to Fluttershy as she held a depressed and upset look on her face as she cried out "It's humiliating! Embarrassing! That's what you all think of me!"

"W-what? No Flutters, that's not true!" I exclaimed with a worried look. 

"No Ren, it's the truth!" She cried before turning to Dash and said "I'm sorry Rainbow Dahs, but I just can't do it!"

With that, she began running away while the rest of us felt guilty and worried that she's acting up again. And that was such a good improvement for her skills, and now she's finally embarrassed by it.

"It's okay, Rainbow Dash, you've still got plenty of wing power for your tornado. You'll be able to lift tons of water up to Cloudsdale!" 

"Are you serious about that?" Rantaro asked deadpanned. "You sure are known for ruining the moment, Spike."

"What?! I'm just saying!" Spike exclaimed angrily. However, Rainbow gazes back at where Fluttershy was last seen before letting out a heavy sigh and muttered "If only there was a way to lift Fluttershy out of the dumps."

Me too Rainbow...me too...

"Damn, so much for all of that damn training." Jack sighed before scratching his head bashfully. "So now what?"

I looked down on the ground with a sad look, wondering what to do now. Fluttershy is so heartbroken and I want to help out...but I just don't know if she even wants to see my face because she must've thought that I was disappointed in her. The only thing that I'm disappointing in...is myself because I'm sitting around doing nothing!

"Then go to her Mr. Loodan." Huh? I looked over to Nicole as she looked at me with a soft smile. "It's not easy for people to be embarrassed and humiliated on bad times such as this, but if people like you can help out others in bad times, then you can give them the hope they deserve."

"Nicole..." I muttered in surprise as she began taking her leave, allowing some ponies to move out of her way until she looks back at me and said "Well...are you coming or not?"

"O-oh! Thanks Nikki!" I thanked, causing her to blink a few times before she began taking her leave with me following after her.

"Hey! Wait for me!" Kodi yelled, chasing after me and Nicole. I bid the others farewell as we walked back towards Fluttershy's cottage, hoping that we could talk...again.



Later
"Flutters? Flutters!" Still no answer. We were in front of her cottage as I kept banging on the door, but no luck. She could possibly be around the back.

"Alright, let's go check it out." I turned to Nicole with a surprised look and exclaimed "Y-you heard that?!"

"That look on your face says it all. You're quite an open book..." Nicole answered before walking around the back with me and Kodi following after her.

"But are we even sure she could possibly be back here?" Kodi asked. Before any of us could answer his question, we heard some moaning as we looked over by and saw Fluttershy moaning by the tree. "Oh...never mind."

"Flutters?" I called, gaining her attention as she glances towards us as she still has some tears falling from her cheeks. Just seeing her like this makes my heart ache so bad.

"Hi...." Fluttershy whimpered as we walked over to her as I came over and bend down to her with a sad smile and asked "So how are you feeling?"

"I-I'm fine...what am I saying? I'm horrible! Humiliated! Embarrassed!" Fluttershy cried out before placing her face on the tree, covering it with her hooves. 

"I didn't think it was bad. I'm sure that what you did back there was a great improvement." I said with a smile. "Maybe if we keep practicing, surely you'll have a wing power of 10.0!"

"Not possible." Nicole said. "Apparently, I've discovered from Ms. Twilight stated that the event you speak of is being held tomorrow morning, so I'm afraid that you won't have time to do that."

"I don't know, Fluttershy was doing amazingly and increased her wing power just earlier by the afternoon." Kodi pointed out. 

"Well even so, I say that it's not gonna help her now." Nicole stated before glancing towards me and Fluttershy. "Why not we discuss this indoors?"

"Well that sounds like the right idea." I nodded with a hopeful smile before turning to Fluttershy and asked "What do you say Flutters?"

Fluttershy raised her head and let out a few whimpers before nodding and mumbling "Y-yes..."

"Come along..." Nicole soon started walking inside of Fluttershy's cottage while the rest of us looked at each other and wonder what Nicole want us to talk about. I mean, she is a psychologist so maybe she might help give us some therapy or whatnot. So maybe she could help?

"Room for one more?" Huh? We looked over to see Rantaro walking by with a nonchalant look on her face while the rest of us felt confused of his appearance.

"What are you doing here?" Kodi asked with a raised brow.

"Just wanted to keep an eye out for old Nikki here." Rantaro answered. "That's all you need to know."

I raised a brow at Rantaro because I know for sure that can't be the only reason why he came here, right? I'm sure there's another reason why he's here.

"....Alright you may come. You're only here for Miss Fluttershy and Mr. Loodan's relationship, correct?" Nicole guessed, furrowing her brows while Rantaro let out a snicker.

"Way to go for spoiling that." Huh? He's here because of me and Fluttershy's relationship? Then...what reason would that be? I never thought he would think about anyone else but himself because he always distance himself from others and doesn't like his time to be wasted.



Later
Soon after Nicole asked us to meet up inside of Fluttershy's cottage, we were seen sitting down on the sofa while Rantaro was leaning against the wall, Nicole was doing something on her iPad while she sat down on a recliner and Kodiak and Gizmo were busy having some sort of conversation. We all remained silent until Nicole took her gaze off her iPad and stared at us.

"...So Ms. Fluttershy, could you tell me about what happened to Flight Camp?" Nicole questioned. "I may know that you were bullied, but I wished to learn it from your perspective."

Fluttershy felt nervous about that but I gave her a comforting smile and said "Hey, don't feel bad Fluttershy. I'm right here for ya."

Fluttershy gave me a soft smile before turning to Nicole and began telling her story to her.

"My experience back at Flight Camp was...you may say, awful. Back when I was a filly, I was always known for not being more 'faster' than the others."

"In other words, you haven't been practicing much on flying in the air like Ms. Rainbow Dash and the other Pegasi, correct?" Nicole deduced, which Fluttershy nodded.

"Yes...I tried so hard to fly and get better at it, but no matter how much of a crowd I see, I grew panicky and accidentally get myself into trouble, hurting myself and making the others either upset or laugh at me for my clumsiness." Fluttershy sniffled, prompting me to pat her on the back as she looked back at me with a soft smile.

"I see....it was thanks to that experience you've gained this kind of fear of stage fright, correct?" Nicole questioned, which Fluttershy nodded. "I understand because you've been facing performance anxiety."

"Performance anxiety?" Fluttershy questioned.

"She means being afraid to show off your talents in front of a crowd, obviously." Rantaro stated harshly, glancing towards her.

"Oh...right." Hey! You don't be so harsh, dude.

"It's because of the traumatic experience that you've gained a phobia of flying five feet into the air, but I have a feeling that Ms. Rainbow Dash helped you through it. While you may not have done too well through Flight Camp, I have a feeling that you've find a good talent of being an animal caretaker/breeder here in Ponyville." Nicole made a soft smile towards me and Fluttershy. "While you may be afraid, you need to unveil the chains of your fears out of you. If you just do it, things will turn out okay."

Where have I heard that line somewhere?

"Yeah, take me for example." I chuckled with a smile, earning confusion from Fluttershy herself. "I've been bullied many times back at elementary school, but I kept a positive vibe and never held a grudge at them because I understand why they love to bully due to parental/family issues. I've been quite a good person towards others and gained a few friends. While I may not have the same problem as you, I understand about your stage fright very deeply and I want to help you do it. Because...I know that you can conquer it!"

"Y-you really think so, Ren?" Fluttershy asked, startled a bit.

"Of course! I mean, you just have to believe in yourself!" I said with a smile.

"Yeah! Nice speech Ren!" Kodi barked with a smile on his face while I rubbed my head bashfully with a small blush.

"He has a point. You can't be a coward and stay on the ground for your whole life." Rantaro added, picking his ear a bit. "You're a Pegasus, aren't ya? You should fly around and go high to the skies or some crap. Stop being a wimp and woman up."

"Woman...up?" Nicole and Fluttershy asked in unison.

"Yeah, stop feeling moody, get to it. You're time is just gonna be wasted if you don't do it." Rantaro stated.

"...Well..." Fluttershy looked at the ground for a while before letting out a smile. "I guess I could try again...Well I'll try my best at least."

"That's the spirit Flutters!" I cheered loudly with a big smile on my face. "I'll be there, supporting you to the end!"

"T-thank you Ren!" She gave me a tight hug before kissing me on the forehead, causing me to blush and chuckled nervously while Nicole stared at us for a while and said "You two are meant for each other."

"Huh?" We both asked.

"While it does seemed strange that it's a human and an anthropomorphic pony with wings on each side of her hip, I guess you may call it an 'inter-species love'." Nicole adjusted her glasses with a soft smile. "I guess...both of you can try to figure out how to surpass and unlocked yourselves from the chain wrapped around in your heart, Ms. Fluttershy."

"R-really? You-"

"Really think I can do it? Is that you were gonna say?" Nicole questioned, startling Fluttershy before she let out a hesitant nod. "Yes...yes you will...I think."

"'You think'?" Rantaro asked incredulous.

"Call it a hunch..." Nicole shrugged a little before glancing away and got up from her seat before walking out of the cottage, giving us a small wave before taking her leave. 

"Well...she was nice." Fluttershy commented.

"Whatever...I say that she's just a social outcast kind of a dweeb." Rantaro scoffed. 

"Hey, be nice Rantaro." I said with a soft smile while he rolled his eyes and began taking his leave.

"Whatever, I'm out of here. See ya later...I'm out to share some more info for ponies to hear." That is...if they could possibly pay your ludicrous prices. "See ya never...come on Gizmo, let's go."

Gizmo jumped onto his right shoulder as the two of them took their leave out of the cottage while Fluttershy, Kodiak, and I looked at each other with hopeful smiles.

"You know, I have this feeling that you are gonna try your best tomorrow on showing the others that you can do it, Fluttershy." I encouraged with a smile, which made Fluttershy smiled happily.

"Thank you Ren and thanks for the support." Fluttershy chuckled.

"Yeah, we'll be rooting for you." Kodi jumped onto the sofa before licking her face, causing her to chuckle as she petted him on the head and kissing him on the nose.  

"You too Kodiak." Fluttershy thanked. "I'll try my best...hopefully."

"Don't say that. Try to stay optimistic." I smiled softly, which made Fluttershy chuckle as she replied "Well maybe I can't be that optimistic like you, but maybe I could try at least."

"Yeah..." I nodded with a smile as the two of us agreed that go over to the event early in the morning. Soon, we went silent, making the things  "Well....I should get going."

"O-Oh...r-right..." Fluttershy smiled softly, forming a large blush on her face. "W-we'll meet tomorrow morning....b-bye Ren...Kodiak..."

"Right...bye Flutters." I said as me and Kodiak were about to leave until I stopped myself and looks back at Fluttershy with a soft smile and nodded, gesturing her that I wish her good luck tomorrow and give it your best as the two of us left the cottage. Soon after as the two of us were walking by and headed back home as Kodiak looked at me with a confused look and asked "What was that all about?"

"O-oh! I was just wishing Fluttershy good luck because..." I scratched my head bashfully with a grin. "I have this nagging feeling that she's gonna do it. Trust me, that she'll do it."

"Well...can't blame ya. I want to see Fluttershy smiling again." Kodi grinned. "I just hope she can do it."

I let out a nod before looking at the blue skies before muttering "Me too Kodi...me too..."

Fluttershy...I'm counting on you on proving those guys and like I promise, I'll be there. I promise.



The Next Day
Today was the day after the practiced meet, and we woke up very early since we've been told that the event was taking place by 6:00  A.M. in the morning. The day has already been over with and so we headed back home to mind our own businesses. So anyway, me and the others were just busy finishing breakfast already as the rest of us were taking our leave and heading over to the end of town to see the Pegasi ponies about to perform.

"I'm so excited!" Carrie cheered, holding onto her brother's hands with a cheery smile. "I can't wait to see it!"

"I know right?" Kaede smiled. "Rainbow Dash picked out many different Pegasi ponies to compete in the water reservoir."

"Ha! Maybe Skittles might have a chance beaten that damn record!" Jack grinned toothily.

"That'll be an amazing sight." I chuckled with a smile before turning to Nicole and Rantaro. "Oh, and thank you guys for helping out Fluttershy."

"Just doing my job..." Nicole stated, looking over her iPad.

"Why thank you." Rantaro snickered.

"And don't worry, he really means it." Rantaro gave Nicole an annoyed glance while the rest of us let out some chuckles.

"Well either way, it's a good thing that I made some snacks while we watch the event." Mason smiled, carrying a basket filled with some delicious croquettes, sandwiches, and water bottles. "Though it would be best if we stayed behind a hill and watched the event unfold. It is quite dangerous to get close to a tornado."

"Good point. Tornadoes are extremely dangerous based upon on the five categories..." Nicole agreed, looking over her iPad. "It's probably best not to get involved and just stay about 10 feet and watch it unfold."

"Well alright then." I chuckled before rubbing my head bashfully. "Though I wish we could watch it up close."

"Yeah, then it would be more exciting." Kodi pouted.

"Would you get caught up in a dangerous storm that could suck you up and get yourself killed?" Nicole questioned, causing me and Kodi to look at each other sheepishly, realizing that she has a point. 

"Yeah, though I'm kinda jealous Jamie is gonna be there earlier than us." Kaede admitted, rubbing her cheek bashfully with a sheepish grin. "Along with staying there as well."

"Well Jamie is helping Twilight out on the water reservoir event, that's all." Mason replied.

"Lucky nerd of a coward." Jack rolled his eyes.

"Speaking about cowards..." Rantaro looked over at his phone before asking "Where's that yellow Pegasus?"

Oh yeah, I forgot about her. Maybe she's at the event already before us?

"Hello everypony...." I looked back along with the others to see Fluttershy walking by with a soft yet nervous smile and she was accompanied with a few of her animal friends, mainly a rabbit, squirrel, a duck and its duckling. "Am I late or too early?"

"Oh hey Flutters." I greeted with a smile. "And don't worry, you just arrived to the perfect moment for the event."

"Oh thank you Ren." Fluttershy giggled.

"I'm surprise that you even want to show up." Jack grunted, causing Fluttershy to flinch while the rest of us, excluding Nicole at the moment, gave him a look. "What? I'm just saying."

"Well besides that..." I turned to Fluttershy with a soft smile. "I'm really glad that you've finally decided to show up Flutters."

Fluttershy blushed and giggled a bit while everyone else chuckled at the scene. 

"So what's up with the animals?" Rantaro questioned. "Seems like a waste to just bring them here."

The four animals growled angrily at him while Fluttershy shushed them softly, prompting them to calm down.

"Oh, they insisted to come and cheer me up if we ever have the chance to help out Rainbow Dash and the others on creating that tornado." Fluttershy explained.

"Ahh, that's so cute." Carrie giggled before petting the little duckling with a bright grin. The little duckling felt appreciated by that before letting out a quack, causing the rest of us to chuckle.

"We're very proud of you Fluttershy." Kaede grinned.

"Indeed. We are quite happy that you are willing to help your friend out." Mason nodded in agreement, causing Fluttershy to blush in embarrassment from all the praise.

"N-no need. I just don't want Rainbow Dash to feel depressed because I'm not here." Fluttershy replied with a soft smile. "She needs every Pegasi for the job in order to create a tornado powerful enough to send water directly towards Cloudsdale."

"Well you don't have to worry about that." Nicole insisted. "Besides, I don't think it's possible to create a powerful tornado anyway."

"Huh? Why do you say that Nicole?" Kaede asked in confusion.

"Because I found out yesterday during the practice meet that several of them are sick with a disease." We all widened our eyes in shock upon hearing that as we yelled "What?!"

"Yes, I inspected every one of those ponies who intended the meeting and notice that several showed signs of some sort of disease founded here in Equestria, so if I'm right, I say that several of them are hospitalized by now."

"A-are you frigging serious right now?!" Jack exclaimed. "Why the hell are you telling us this now?!"

"Because you never asked..." Nicole replied.

"Are you kidding me?" Rantaro face-palmed while the rest of us sweat-dropped with deadpanned looks. She can't be serious right now, right? Although, this is bad considering what Nicole deduced! We have to hurry and warn the others before it's too late!

Suddenly, we begin to feel a rush of wind blowing through us as Kaede commented "Whoa, it sure is getting windy today."

"Yeah, so suddenly as well." Kodi agreed. Strange, since when did it get so windy? In the beginning of Spring as well?

"Wait...look!" Mason pointed over behind us as we saw a giant fan blowing very fast, nearly knocking us out.

"What the hell is that?!" Jack exclaimed.

"It's a giant fan, what do you think?!" Rantaro snorted, placing his hand on his fedora in hopes of not letting it be blown away.

"No, that's the anemometer!" Fluttershy exclaimed. "It must be starting already!"

"Huh? So suddenly?!" Kodi exclaimed with a low growl.

"Goddamn, this wind sure is strong!" Jack commented as we tried our best to hold our ground.

"I-I have to get there..." Fluttershy soon started slowly descending towards the fan while I looked back with a worried look. If she tries to go directly towards the tornado, she's gonna get herself killed! 

"Wait!" I called, gaining her attention. "I'm coming too!"

"What?!" The others, except Nicole, exclaimed in shock.

"Trust me, I'll be alright!" I replied before turning to Kodi and said "And stay with Kodi, I don't want you to get hurt if something happened to me."

"You got it!" Kodi nodded in agreement. I smiled happily at him before turning to Fluttershy and said "Let me come with you Fluttershy! Just to keep you safe!"

"O-Okay!" Fluttershy shouted back and everyone yelled, telling me to come back but I ignored them as we slowly took our steps and somehow managed to get past the wind, finding a giant anemometer machine with Twilight, Jamie, and Spike holding onto it with all their might.

"W-w-why was it a good idea to stay right here in this spot?!" Jamie screamed.

"We have to stay here in order to observe how much power they're making for the tornado!" Twilight yelled back.

"Twilight!" Fluttershy and I yelled out, gaining their attention as they glanced towards us with surprised looks.

"You guys?! What are you all doing here?!" Twilight yelled. 

"We came here to watch the event but we didn't knew that it was gonna be that windy!" I yelled.

"I figured...that I could try again by going into that...tornado to help out Rainbow Dash..." Fluttershy shouted.

"She could sure use it, considering that eight Pegasi are infected with a disease called Feather Flu!" Jamie yelled.

"We know! Nicole told us just now!" I yelled back, much to their shock.

"What?!" Twilight exclaimed.

"It's a long story, but now's not the time!" I yelled before me and Fluttershy held on the machine while we gaze at the giant tornado, seeing it spin around and around as it began making its way towards the skies. Looks like it's still going and they're trying to bring the water into the skies. That's the whole point of it, right?

As the tornado kept going, I saw a lot of ponies were being blasted straight out of the tornado. Holy cow! Is forming a tornado that hard?! Wait, what am I saying? It has to be that hard, right? Sooner or later, the tornado immediately collapsed with all the Pegasi being blasted out of the way, making the wind levels die down and Rainbow Dash crashed straight into a tree, her eyes somehow popped out on the other side. Okay, that's quite creepy.

"Are you okay Dash?" I asked in worried. Rainbow Dash tried to get herself out of the log as she muttered "I'm fine!"

"Oh, you were so close to the eight hundred wing power minimum." Jamie stated, looking over at the anemometer. "I-I'm so sorry, Rainbow Dash."

Rainbow Dash managed to get herself out of the tree before making a serious and determined look before exclaiming "We've got to try again!"

"But you've pushed your crew to their limit already!" Twilight reminded him before pulling her back using her tail as she pointed over with a stern look on her face. We looked over to see the other Pegasi ponies were getting out of the water and had exhausted looks on their faces. "If you break apart again, somepony could get hurt! You should quit, it's not safe!"

Rainbow looked at her with shocked and felt guilty while I had a worried look until something inside of me forced me out to say something.

"No! She has to!" I retorted, surprising the others as I looked at Rainbow Dash with a serious look and continued "Are you just gonna give up?! Well you can't because you can't do this for the record, but you have to do this for Cloudsdale! For these guys! For all of Equestria! You need to keep coming and won't give up till the end!"

"R-Ren!" Twilight scolded.

"No..." Rainbow held a serious look as she swatted Twilight's hoof away. "Ren's right! One more time! I've gotta know we gave it our all! If I'm going down, I'm going down flying!" She turned to the other Pegasi and exclaimed "Come on, ponies, let's make this happen!"

That gotten the crowd yelling out in agreement before we heard one of the ponies, which I recognized from that white bulky pony yelling out a 'YEAH!' from the crowd. With that, I looked over to see Spike blowing into a big horn as the rest of the remaining Pegasi ponies began spinning around and around, making the water swirl around and around until they formed it into a tornado.

"Whoa..." I said in awe with slightly widened eyes. Where's a camera when you need it.

"Okay, it's starting up again..." Jamie pointed out, seeing the anemometer starting up again as the arrow on it started to go up slowly. "One hundred wing power!...Two hundred!...Five hundred!"

Soon, the tornado kept getting bigger and bigger, but then I noticed that it was starting to get out of control.

"Seven hundred! Seven hundred and fifty wing power!" Jamie continued to read the anemometer while he held tight onto it. While me and Spike held onto the machine, I was crushed underneath Fluttershy as I felt dizzy before shaking my head, regaining consciousness. 

"Oh! Sorry Ren!" Fluttershy apologized. I gave her a reassuring smile and replied "Don't worry, it's okay Flutters."

"AH!" Spike gasped. "They fell apart after this!"

We looked back and saw that he had a point since the tornado was starting to get out of hand with all this pressure they're facing.

"Oh, I'm too nervous to look!" Fluttershy covered her eyes in fear while her animal buddies hid behind the anemometer in fear.

"Seventy ninety five! We are so close!" Jamie stated with a worried look. "A-at this rate, they're never gonna get that water to Cloudsdale!"

I furrowed my brows in thought, wondering what to do before looking at Fluttershy, making me realize something. There is one way to solve this...

"Fluttershy!" I shouted, gaining her attention. "You have to go into that tornado!"

"W-w-w-what?!" Fluttershy stuttered in shock. "I can't! It wouldn't make a difference!"

"You can make a difference!" I retorted.

"My measly 2.3 wing power is still too little!" Fluttershy cried.

"it's sticking at seventy ninety five! I don't know if they've got any more in them!" Jamie called, much to my worried and shock. I looked at Fluttershy with an encouraging look and said "Fluttershy, you have to do this...for them!"

"B-but even so...I can't. I-I'm just a failure!" Fluttershy cried until I hugged her tight and said "Then we'll do this...together."

"What?" Fluttershy asked in confusion. I soon got up and took out the capsule out of my pockets before pressing on the button and throwing it into the air, releasing my hover board as I hopped on while the others widened their eyes in shock upon realizing what I was about to do.

"Ren! Are you crazy?!" Twilight exclaimed. "There's no way you can try and form a tornado at this size! Humans can't even control weather like you said!"

"Well I have to do something! No way am I gonna let them fail again!" I retorted. 

"Ren wait!" Fluttershy stopped me. "You can't do this alone! Please, don't do this!"

"You're right, I can't alone but together we can!" I smiled, much to her surprise. "Fluttershy, you can do this. Do it for Equestria! Do it for Rainbow Dash! Do it for yourself!"

Fluttershy looked at me with an unsure look before gulping in fear. I gave her a soft smile before leaning forward and kissing her on the lips, much to her and the other's shock and surprise. Ten seconds later, we finished up our kiss as she looked at me with her face all red.

"O-okay...let's do it...for them." Fluttershy smiled as I nodded before she started flapping her wings as the two of us were about fly straight into the tornado until Twilight stopped us. She gave the both of us stern looks before giving us two goggles, one was an old fashion brown goggles and the other was a Astra Depot Steampunk goggles with clear lens. We both looked at her in surprise as she gave us a pleading look.

"Just be careful out there you two." Twilight said in concern, which the two of us looked at each other before smiling and grabbing onto each goggles as I put on the Astra Depot Steampunk Clear Lens Goggles while Fluttershy put on the brown one. We both let out nods as Fluttershy began flapping her wings rapidly before she looked back at her animal friends, who gave her encouraging looks as well as pleading looks to me as they wanted to make sure that nothing happened to her, which I nodded.

With that, the both of us flew straight into the tornado and holy cow it looked so awesome in here! I saw many different Pegasus's flying around in circles while they tried to carry the water towards the skies.

I stayed in a steady pace before noticing Fluttershy struggling to stay still till I grabbed her hoof and managed to let her fly next to me. 

"You okay?" I asked in concern.

"Y-yeah...I think so." Fluttershy nodded before smiling. "Now come on! Let's go!"

"Right!" I nodded before we began increasing our speed, bumping into Rainbow Dash.

"Hey! You made it Fluttershy!" Rainbow said with a smile before gazing upon me with a surprised look. "And you too Ren?!"

"Well I figured that if Fluttershy gonna do it, then we gotta do this together!" I replied with a confident smile, which made Rainbow make a smirk towards us.

"Well it would makes sense considering she's your special somepony." Rainbow replied, causing the both of us to blush and pout at that. "But anyway, I guess it's alright with you! The more the merrier, right?"

"Right!" Me and Fluttershy nodded in unison until I said "I may not have the ability to control the weather like this for example, but I can always still help!" 

Rainbow formed a grin at me before winking as we began pulling ourselves into the tornado, getting all the water swirling around to the top. I don't know how long we've been through or if time was starting to get slow, but I noticed many Pegasus ponies were getting past us, much to our confusion.

"Uh oh, looks like we need to increase our speed some more." I said to Fluttershy, which made her hesitant before letting out a gulp as she nodded and tried to flap harder, but was struggling.

With that, she let out a heavy sigh before I noticed her pupils were shrinking. Oh no...she's hesitating...I can't let her do this! Not now!

"Fluttershy! Don't give in to your fear! Give in to hope! Not lose hope now!" I yelled, snapping her out of her traumatized state. "You can do it! You can't fall to despair now! Rainbow Dash believes in you! Twilight believes in you! Jamie and Spike believes in you! Angel and your other animal buddies believes in you! The others believes in you! I believe in you!"

Fluttershy looked at me in shock before forming a determined look and said "You're right...I can't fall back! I need to keep going and not let my fears take me down! I'll do it for you and for everypony else!"

With that, she began flapping her wings rapidly and blasted off, causing me to smile happily before pursuing her, passing by many ponies as they had impressed looks on their faces.

"What was that?"

"I think it was Ren Loodan and Fluttershy!"

"I heard that those two were special someponies!"

"Whoa, that's quite weird!"

"Whoa, so that's what the power of love looks like!"

Sooner or later, we began swirling around faster and faster until the water was blasted right out of the tornado and straight into Cloudsdale, sucking all of the lake's water. With every bit of the water gone, we finally accomplished the impossible. Soon, we heard a loud horn blowing which was probably Spike blowing into that long horn again and on cue, everypony stopped themselves but me and Fluttershy still kept flying around and around too fast.

"Ahh...I'm getting too dizzy..." I groaned, my eyes swirling around in a dizzy state.

"Me...too...." Fluttershy moaned until the both of us were on clouds. Well...only Fluttershy since she's a Pegasus as I went through the cloud and fell down on the ground as my board deactivated and landed on the ground.

"Whuh, what? Did we do it?" I asked myself, which Rainbow Dash nodded with an eager smile and replied "Yeah, we did it! You two did it!"

She flew down with Fluttershy in tow and hugged the both of us, causing us to sigh happily and smiled in relief.

"Great job, Fluttershy, Ren, that was awesome!" One of the Pegasi complimented. The other Pegasi murmured in agreement while they all were impressed that some human like me was keeping up with them, even I was impressed with myself to do something like that.

"Yeah, we couldn't have done it without you two." I soon stood up and shook my head before I replied "No, it wasn't just the two of us. It's Fluttershy you all should thank because she did it with all her might to get that water straight to Cloudsdale. She's the real hero!"

Fluttershy smiled happily towards me while the crowd started to agree on that.

"Woo!" Huh? I looked over to see a pony wearing a blue lightning bolt-like costume flying towards Rainbow Dash with a smirk on her face. "Nice job, Rainbow Dash. You may not have set a new record, but you showed a lot of guts."

Rainbow smiled at her before replying "Thanks, but if you wanna talk guts, then like Ren said, you've gotta give it to our number one flyer, Fluttershy! Let's hear it for Fluttershy!"

"Fluttershy! Fluttershy! Fluttershy can really fly!" All of the Pegasi cheered while I stood there with a proud look on my face as I uncovered my goggles and placed them on my hair with a small smile before feeling an impact from my left shoulder.

"Ow!" I winced before looking back to see the others walking back with worried and stern looks on their faces.

"That's for going off and doing the stupidest thing I've ever seen." Mason stated, which made me chuckle before he hugged me tight and said "And that's for helping out with the situation."

"Jeez Ren, if we knew that you were gonna do something like that, we would've stopped you or maybe joined up with you." Kaede sighed in relief.

"Yeah! You gave us all a heart attack!" Carrie exclaimed. 

"Tell me about it. I was almost at the edge of my seat there." Jack nodded before ruffling my hair. "But I gotta say, not bad for a scrawny kid like you."

"Uhh...thanks?" I thanked, rubbing my cheek with a confused look. I'm not that scrawny, am I? Suddenly, I was jumped on my Kodiak as he continued to lick my face over and over again. "Okay! Okay! That's enough! I get it! You like me!"

"I was so worried about you, Ren! When I saw you and Fluttershy entering that tornado, you nearly gave me a heart-attack!" Kodi exclaimed as he got off of me before nuzzling my right cheek and licking it, causing me to laugh.

"Well thanks for your concern dude." I chuckled.

"I told you all that he would do alright." Nicole stated, which made Rantaro rolled his eyes.

"Whatever..." Rantaro rolled his eyes before smirking at me. "I gotta say that I'm impressed that you did something like that. You sure know how to be reckless."

I let out a nervous chuckle while I rubbed my head bashfully as Jamie walked over with a soft smile and said "You did very wonderful Ren. I still don't get why you would do something like that though."

"Because I was worried about Fluttershy and I would do anything crazy for my friends." I said with a wink. "Besides, she did most of the work after I encouraged her a lot."

"I-I see...you did very well. You're quite strong by h-heart..." Jamie chuckled, glancing down with a smile.

"And it worked well." I turned to Nicole as she glanced away and said "After studying you guys and learning much about your personalities, I learned that you're the type to encourage and support others with kind words, and I figured out that you would be able to encourage Ms. Fluttershy and help her out from her traumatic Flight Camp experience, and it looks like I was right."

"Sure..." Rantaro snickered, which the psychologist ignored.

"You guys were amazing out there!" Twilight beamed with excitement as she gave me and Fluttershy a smile. "You two really have done very well! I hope you two learned something from this experience.

"We have." Fluttershy and I said in unison, causing the both of us to look at each other before we giggled.

"You first." I offered, which Fluttershy nodded.

"Well..." Fluttershy twiddled with her hoof for a while before looking over at all of us and smiled. "Sometimes you can feel like what you have to offer is too little to make a difference, but today, I learned that everypony's contribution is important, no matter how small."

"And if you just keep your head high, do your best, and believe in yourself, anything can happen." I added, nudging Mason while he rolled his eyes with a small smile on his face.

"Well...guess my time is up." With that, Nicole began taking her leave as Rantaro asked "And where are you going? If you're-"

"Planning on finding a way back to our world? Then no, I already know that the chances on finding a way back to our world is a deep lost, but surely we can try and figure out when the time is right....I think." Rantaro blinked in confusion as Nicole began taking her leave, leaving everypony confused and weirded out by her.

"...That is gotta be the strangest human I've ever seen." Rainbow said bluntly.

"You think? This crazy chick is gotta be the weirdest out of anyone I've encountered." Jack added.

"Though I am quite excited to learn so much about her work!" Jamie beamed with a smile before frowning a bit. "Though, when she has the time...I guess..."

"I somehow highly doubt that." Mason sighed. 

"Yeah..." I nodded before noticing Fluttershy gesturing me to follow her, which I nodded. "Hey listen, there's somewhere I got to be. I'll catch you all later!"

"Wait! I'm coming too!" Kodi said, following after as me and Fluttershy, along with a certain Siberian Husky, headed our way out of the crowd while I felt like the others were giving me smirks as they know full well what we were doing.



Later
"Wow...." That was the only thing I've ever said as Fluttershy took me over by a tall tree she went to and cry twice that was just over by her cottage as we managed to see a view of Ponyville from up the top, as well as a good view of the sun slowly rising from the skies.

"This place is so amazing." Kodi sighed happily as the three of us sat on the many leaves on the top. "Do you come here to enjoy it, Fluttershy?"

"Everyday when I have some alone time." Fluttershy giggled. "I love coming here because seeing everything here makes me feel happy."

"Well..." I looked over at Fluttershy with a smile. "If it makes you feel happy, then it makes me feel happy too."

Fluttershy blushed a bit before looking away with a light chuckle. There's the Fluttershy I know and love. She looks back at me before noticing something on my head. 

"Umm...Ren? Why are you still wearing those goggles?" Hm? I glanced upwards on my forehead and realized that I was still wearing those goggles from before. 

"Whoops! I guess I never did noticed them before, eh?" I smiled as I attempted to take them off but Fluttershy gently put her hooves on my hands and didn't let me.

"No no, it's okay Ren. I think they look very nice." I blushed a bit as I asked "Y-you really think so Flutters?"

"Mm-hmm. I think you should keep them." I let out a smile and nodded in agreement.

"Yeah, you look kinda cool with those bro." Kodi snickered before I ruffled his hair a bit as I said "Yeah, you're right. Thanks you guys, I'll keep these goggles because...I'll think of them as a reminder of this event."

Fluttershy softly smiled before frowning, which I noticed. "Hm? Something wrong?"

"W-well...it's just that....Ren..." She looked at me with a worried look and felt hesitant on what she has to say. "Do you think that once you find your way back home...back with your own kind and the rest of your family, along with everypony else...will we never see each other again?"

And just like that, I went silent as I gaze down on my legs with a sad and worried look. It's just like with Kodiak before...they're worried that we might never come back to Equestria because there's always that tearful and sad endings where the main character and cast never see each other again. I know that only happens in fictional stories, movies, TV Shows, animes, and manga but...this is real life. If that were to happen....does that mean that I'll never see my friends ever again? We've learned so much about Equestria, about the magic of friendship, and making new bonds together. 

"R-Ren?" I looked back at Fluttershy and Kodiak, who both had sad and worried looks on their faces too. I don't want to set the mood down so maybe I could encouraged them a bit.

"Well...I'm not sure but I know that I'll always be here with you guys to the end." I said with a smile.

"Well..." Kodi licked me on the left cheek with a smile on his face. "I believe in you Ren, so I know that you'll always be with us."

"Thanks boy." I chuckled until I felt Fluttershy's lips on my right cheek, causing me to chuckle nervously and flushed in embarrassment.

"Well no matter what...it's your decision, not mine." Fluttershy smiled. "But promise me that no matter where we are, you'll always be thinking of me and the others."

"I promise." I nodded, which caused her to raise an amused brow at me as she asked "Pinkie promise?"

I let out a chuckled before I began to do the gestures and words of the Pinkie promise.

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." I said with a smile as we began laughing at that until Fluttershy leaned against my shoulder, much to my surprise while Kodiak laid on my lap with a soft smile before letting out a yawn and taking a nap while me and Fluttershy looked at each other with soft smiles as we gazed upon the sun rising over Ponyville and the home-ship.

Yeah...that's right. I promise Fluttershy...I promise to never forget you guys and I'll always be thinking of you guys to the end.



Meanwhile
Somewhere in the dark depths of a forest just far far away from where our heroes are living, a mysterious centaur-like creature in a brown cloak is seen walking down the path with heavy grunts.

"After all these years...I'm finally free." He said as he clenched his paw into a fist. "My dear old brother...you're such a fool. To think on betraying me thousands of years ago just because these ponies made you soft! Well...it's no more! Once I regain my strength, I'll steal all of Equestria's magic and make it my world!"

"Mmmmm....Very interesting objective you have." The figure turned around, finding another cloaked figure in black as he asked "But I must say, I know that your strength will take a long time to recover, my old friend."

"Friend?" He scoffed at him before saying "I don't even know who you are, and besides, I don't need friends when all I got is power alone."

"Hmm...such a sad state of affairs, isn't it?" The figure taunted, upsetting the centaur as his horns beneath the cloak began to glow as he opened his mouth and attempted to suck out the life out of him, but unfortunately...nothing came.

"W-what? Impossible! How could this be?!" The centaur demanded. "What are you?!"

"Me? Oh nothing more than a reasonable ally of yours." The figure answered. "Now listen, I already learned about your magic sucking ability and whoever you sucked, you gained more stronger while the individual lays on the ground and sooner or later...well you know what happens when these ponies can't regain their strength, power, and such. It such a sad state that these ponies are gonna be left defenseless of their magic, but I must agree with you on stealing their powers."

"What?" He asked the figure as he continued "These ponies are too simple-minded with greed, dark desires, and such. It makes this world feel useless...just like before."

"I don't know what you're ranting on about, but I don't care." The centaur scoffed. "I have no business with the likes of you. I don't know how I wasn't able to steal your magic, but it doesn't matter. I rather find my first victim and steal all of their magic for my taking."

"I see..." The figure gazes at the centaur as he said "But you and I have similar goals, we both hate these ponies and I know what's it like to be betrayed."

The centaur perked up upon hearing that last bit about 'betrayed' as the figure continued "I've been used in the past as well on those who think my power was either meant for good or evil, but I made my mind and I realized my purpose. You were heavily betrayed by your brother ever since the day he met Starswirl The Bearded and he was encouraged to learn more, warning the princesses' about your evil plans, locking you away in Tartarus and thousands of years sure have past for you. Your brother is no more I'm afraid."

"Pfft! Like I care about you or that ungrateful welp of a brother." The centaur scoffed. "Soon, all of Equestria's magic will be in my claws and nothing will stop me."

"Oh, allow me to be of assistance. After all...I am the one who gotten Cerberus away from your prison in order for you to escape." The centaur became shocked upon hearing that this masked figure was the one who released him out of his prison.

"...I see now, so tell me, why did you release me, Lord Tirek, out of my prison? You should know how dangerous I am."

"And I know that you are quite vengeful on the dear old princesses and that's why we need to work together...to create a better hope for this world that can overcome any despair." The centaur known as Lord Tirek looked at him for a while before letting out a sly smirk.

"Alright....you may serve under me. Tell me, what is your name?"

The cloaked figure looked at the figure with a hard gaze before fully saying one word that revealed who he is.

"My name.....is Void."
To Be Continued
> Chapter 52 - Gabby Gums! The Secret Revealed!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well...this is quite awkward. It was the day after we finished up the Pegasus Hurricane event and we've decided to investigate the new floors in the home-ship. We've invited the Mane 6 (which I've decided to call them), and Spike to explore the shopping mall district as well as Nikki's room. 

"Golly, this is such a huge place!" Applejack commented, looking over at the Target store district entrance. 

Rainbow flew around the place with an eccentric look on her face and let out a whistle, already have checked out every part of the place due to her speed. "Ah ha ha! This is so awesome! You guys get to own your own awesome mall! This is just awesome!"

“You can say that again!” I chuckled, walking around the place with a couple of french fries in my hand. 

"With this mall, we pretty much have enough food to last ourselves for as long as we stay here." Kaede stated.

"Quite indeed." Mason smiled.

"Say Ren..." Spike looked over to me with a raised brow. "What's up with the goggles? Didn't you use them when you and Fluttershy helped Rainbow Dash and the other Pegasi onto delivering all of the lake's water up to Cloudsdale? Why are you still wearing it?"

"Oh this?" I asked, pointing up at the goggles on my head before letting out an awkward smile. "Well, Flutters said it looked pretty cool so I decided to just keep them around a bit."

"Easy for you to say." Jake laughed. "You looked like you could pilot a plane with those things."

"But I don't even know how to fly a plane." I pointed out.

"And you would need to take up on earning your pilot's license for about a minimum of 40 hours of flight time so that you could learn the basics of flying." Jamie explained, writing down in his notebook. "It's not very easy, you know."

"Whatever." Jack scoffed. "I learned how to ride a motorcycle when I was 10 thanks to my old man."

"Wow, that's pretty amazing." Kodiak commented, which earned a smug look on Jack.

"And I say that's quite a boastful comment you made." Rainbow laughed, earning a snarl from Jack.

"Don't you do it all the time?" Jack questioned.

"Duh! For my own amusement!" Rainbow grinned.

"Oh just shaddup!" Jack growled.

"Calm down you two." Twilight said sternly. "We have no time to be fighting. We need to keep on investigating if we're gonna figure out the mysteries behind this ship."

"Quite." Mason nodded, examining a nearby Walmart district. While we looked around the place, I came across Fluttershy who was looking over at a nearby pet shop, and ironically, no animals were in it.

"Hey Flutters, what's wrong?" I asked in concern.

"Oh hi Ren..." Fluttershy sighed. "I was just looking over this pet shop, but nothing there. No animals in there and I was so excited to see the cute little critters."

"Yeah, that does seem weird." I stated, gazing at the store with a confused look. I don't get it, what's the point of a pet shop if there's no animals in there to adopt here.

“You know Ren, I never knew that the home-ship would have this…umm…so many places.” Fluttershy, looking at the empty animal shop with a soft grin. “But it’s a shame that there’s no animals in here. I would really enjoy playing and talking with them.”

I rubbed my cheek in embarrassment and replied “Yeah, so it would seem.”

“Amazing, just how many floors does this ship have?” Twilight said in awe before hearing a squeal, which we were all too familiar with.

“Hey, wasn’t that the crazy pink pony?” Jack asked, blinking in surprise.

“Oh boy…” Applejack sighed before we ran inside of the mall’s playground and saw Pinkie…sliding down a slide. 

“Woo-hoo! This is so fun! Who knew malls can be so much fun?!” Pinkie laughed while we gave out deadpanned looks upon seeing this.

“Well…I guess we should’ve seen that coming.” Kaede chuckled nervously.

“Yeah…” I nodded before noticing Pinkie behind me. “AH! Holy cow, where did you come from?”

“Oh, I was just standing right next to you just a few seconds ago.” Pinkie answered.

“B-but…” Jamie looked over at the playground with a confused look before looking back at Pinkie. “You weren’t even around us just now.”

“Just drop it already.” Mason sighed. “We’ve already discussed this by now, so we’re used to it by now.”

“I-I know…” Jamie sighed before copying some notes down with a sulk look on his face. “I just can’t help it…”

“AHHHHH!” Now what? We looked over to our left to see Rarity in a beauty shop with an extremely excited look that you’ve possibly ever see a girl can ever make. “Look at all of these perfumes! These shampoos! T-These equipment! I am in heaven right now!”

“Rarity, please calm down.” Mason begged with a concern look. “I understand that you have not seen these type of stuff considering that these belong in our world, but you need to relax and stay calm.”

“Right, right…stay calm Rarity, stay calm…” Unfortunately, as she took some deep breaths, she let out a squeal before passing out with a smile onto her face. 

"I spoke too soon." Mason sighed before walking over to the fashion shop and picked her up while she remained unconscious at the moment.

"That's very nice of you to help her up, Mason." Kaede grinned. "That's a very chivalrous thing to do for a lady."

"That's what I've been taught when I was in training to become a personal bodyguard for Elena." Mason grinned.

"It is quite true." Jamie agreed. "While it quite questionable due to your...choice of clothing, you are quite helpful just like the maids and butlers back at home."

"I'll admit, these are not quite good clothing I wear." Mason smiled nervously before looking down at Rarity with a soft grin. "But Elena suggested that I need to wear this in order to hide my identity for others not to know that I am her personal guard."

"Hmm...good point." Jamie nodded.

"So where to next?!" Pinkie asked, eager to explore more of the place. "I want to explore more of this place! Especially of that 'Walmart' place I saw earlier!"

"Well I already checked up the place and there's nothing much but a bunch of stores that sells clothes, games, and other junk." Rainbow Dash explained.

"But no clues relating to our missing memories, right?" Kaede asked, which she replied by shaking her head. Kaede slumped down sadly and muttered "Just great..."

"Don't worry, I'm sure there's gotta be some clue in this ship." Twilight assured with confidence. "We won't give up!"

"Yeah, especially about that letter Ren found." Jamie nodded. "We've been trying to decipher and it was too smudged it."

"Speaking of which, have you and Twilight decipher the letter from all those smudges?" Mason questioned. 

"No." Twilight shook her head. "I've tried applying many appliances and spells to remove the smudges, but it didn't work. I'm not sure why it didn't work..."

"Maybe...that letter must've been there for so long in that room that it didn't work?" Fluttershy suggested.

"That might be a possibility." Jamie sighed sadly. "But even so, something doesn't add up..."

"Well don't worry you guys, we just need to hope that we'll be able to fully read it." I chuckled with a grin, cheering Jamie and Twilight a bit before noticing the confused look on Kodi as he looked around the place. "What's wrong boy?"

"Has anyone seen Rantaro and Nicole?" Now that caused us to realize that we couldn't find those two. Okay, how in Equestria did we not noticed that? 

"Hmph!" Jack scoffed, walking off with his hands in his pockets. "That guys must've ditched us."

"Come on Jack! Be nice!" Fluttershy begged. "I'm sure both Rantaro and Nicole are just exploring this place together."

"Speaking of which, you fellas told us that this Nicole girl is quite hard to communicate, right?" Applejack asked with a raised brow.

"Well, she is." Twilight nodded. "Trust me, she kept catching me off-guard by guessing everything to say."

"Yeah, it's like she can read minds." Spike grinned. "That takes the 'psych' in psychology."

"That's technically not wrong there." Jamie agreed. 

"Ooh! Maybe she's really a psychic! Ooh, I can't wait for her to guess what I say!" Pinkie exclaimed, bouncing a bit in joy.

"Ugh, I'm still annoyed with her ignoring or not even replying back on what we even say." Rainbow scoffed, crossing her hooves with an annoyed look.

"Come on Dash, be nice to her." I said with a slightly stern look.

"No, I'm with Skittles on that." Jack scoffed, rubbing his back a bit. "She's a pain in the butt to communicate."

"Is she that bad to communicate?" Applejack raised a brow. Oh right, they haven't met her yet. 

"Well a little but she's a good person by heart." I assured with a soft grin. "She's just...quite unsure of herself?"

"Unsure of herself? What the hay does that even mean?" 

"We'll just show you who she is once we find those two." I sighed before we began heading over to the second floor of the mall district and kept looking around before seeing both Rantaro and Nicole walking out of an apple store with Rantaro holding onto a box of an Apple Mac Laptop in his hands and Nicole having a stern look on her face while Gizmo was busy sitting on his hat with a cheesy pretzel in his hands, taking a bite of it.

"So why are you taking that Apple Mac Laptop?" Nicole questioned.

"So what? There's no one here and we can practically do whatever we want." Rantaro answered with a small smile. "Besides, you're not my mom."

Gizmo raised his half-eaten cheesy pretzel in the air, agreeing with Rantaro's statement. Nicole looked at him for a while going back onto her iPad.

"Good point." Nicole shrugged.

"Hey!" I called, gaining their attention. "There you guys are!"

"Oh great, it's you." Rantaro scoffed. "Now what kid? Can't ya see that I'm busy minding my own business?"

"Heh heh, sorry you guys." I apologized, rubbing the back of my head while the others came over here as well. "We were just worried about you two."

"I am fine." Nicole stated before gazing at Applejack, Pinkie, and Rarity, who seemed to finally starts to waken up from Mason's arms.

"O-ohh...what just happened?" Rarity asked in confusion before looking over at Mason and after a few blinks, she blushed in embarrassment upon realizing that Mason was carrying her. "O-oh Mason! I-I never knew that you would carry me..."

"Y-yeah...I felt worried about leaving you behind, t-that's all." Mason replied before gently placing her down on the ground. "You okay?"

"Y-yes I am. Thank you for your concern, Mason darling." Mason smiled over at her, along with Rarity while the others blinked in confusion and surprise. Well those two seemed to get pretty along.

"Hmm..." Nicole looked at those two for a while before looking away with her gaze shifted towards the iPad. 

"So what's up with the weird box thing you have, Rantaro?" Kodi asked, tilting his head curiously before walking up to him and sniffing the box. 

"This here is a new little toy of mine." Rantaro grinned. "Lucky me, eh? Gotta hand it to our kidnapper for allowing us to keep things like that."

"But Rantaro...we're not even sure if we were even taken to this place." Jamie pointed out meekly. 

"Yes yes, I know. We only got theories and all that junk. So what?" Rantaro shrugged with a grin. "If it beats than making sure to stay away from the police for a while, am I right?"

"I see, so you're running off from the police, eh?" Applejack questioned suspiciously.

"Makes sense considering what Jamie, Mason, and Jack said is true about him being a criminal." Rainbow huffed, glaring at Rantaro. 

"Whatever. Say what you want." Rantaro chuckled before looking over at Mason. "By the way Mason, I couldn't help but notice that you were quite familiar to me."

"What?" He asked, not following what he meant by that.

"What I mean is that I once saw your face from one of your darling princess's party she does whenever she comes by to the U.S." Rantaro explained, causing Mason to glare at him.

"How do you know that?" 

"Well duh! I was there because I felt like it. Thought I could see something exciting for the old 'vault'." Rantaro shrugged nonchalantly.

"Old...vault?" Fluttershy asked in confusion.

"I think he means for the memories, Flutters." I answered, which she nodded in understanding.

"See, he gets it." Rantaro snickered. "Now excuse me, I rather head back to my room to test out this baby and probably gonna go back on my business on giving info to these gullible and naive ponies."

"Hey! That's just mean!" Pinkie pointed out. Rantaro gave her an annoyed glance and replied "What? I was just-"

"Pointing out the truth, that's what he was trying to say." Nicole explained before glancing over to the three. "And I have a feeling that you are also more friends of Ren and Twilight?"

"Yes, names Applejack!" Applejack tipped her hat to her.

"I'm Rarity. It is quite an honor to meet you darling." Rarity bowed a bit to her.

"Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie and it's so nice to finally meet you!" Pinkie called, bouncing right in front of her. However, she wasn't surprised by her...well, she was HARDLY surprised by her. "Ooh! You look pretty smart with those glasses on ya! I wonder...are you a psychic? Ooh! Ooh! What number am I thinking?"

"...I told you your friend before that I'm not a psychic." Nicole stated, glancing away from her.

"Heh heh, sorry about my friend here, it's just that-"

"She loves being hyperactive and is super excited to meet new ponies, am I right?" Nicole guessed, which caught Applejack off-guard. 

"...Yeeeah." Applejack nodded with widened eyes. "How in tarnation-"

"...Did I figured that you would say that?" Nicole guessed again, surprising Applejack before glancing away and walking off in silence. 

"Jeez, for a psychologist, she sure loves to just walk off in front of people." Rantaro scoffed.

"Sorry." Nicole sighed. "I'm not that too comfortable with large crowds."

"But we're not much of a large crowd." Kodi pointed out, looking at her curiously. Nicole looked at him for a while before bending down and started scratching him underneath the chin, much to his joy. "Ooh yeah! I love that! That's the spot!"

"Ahh, I never knew that you have a liking towards animals." Fluttershy cooed in joy. "Say, do you have a pet, Nicole?"

"I do." Nicole answered bluntly.

"Oh wow, really?" Kaede asked, feeling a bit excited to see her pet. "What is it?"

"Oh, you'll be in a real surprise to see that pet of hers." Rantaro answered before he began walking off.

"Hey wait! What are you talking about?!" Rainbow demanded. Rantaro didn't answer as he tried to walk off, but he was pacing himself more faster. 

I blinked in surprise before turning to Mason and asked "Hey, is it just me or is Rantaro...running away?"

"Yes, that is quite strange." Mason nodded. 

"Who cares about him?" Jack shrugged. 

"I agree with fatty." Rainbow shrugged. 

"So what's your pet name? Is it a puppy like Kodiak was before? Or a kitty like Rosy?" Fluttershy asked excitedly.

"Well I'm sure she has a pet that's common for psychologists." Jamie smiled a bit. 

"Yeah, like the ones Fluttershy suggested." Twilight nodded with a grin. "Or like a bird specimen like Owlicious."

"Or maybe a mouse?" Spike offered. Nicole glanced away from us for a while before letting out a whistle and before you know it, we heard a loud roar and heard a scream coming from the other side.

"What the heck?!" Kaede exclaimed.

"What the hell was that?!" Jack demanded.

"It sounded like it came from where Rantaro went!" Kodi pointed out before running towards the scene, which the rest of us followed after. We kept following after Kodi till we arrived to the scene and saw an unbelievable scene.

"What in Equestria is that?!" Rarity gasped in shock, jumping into Mason's arms in fear. It turned out it was none other than a polar bear. No seriously, a real live on! Normally, you would see a polar bear on the National Geography Channel, or at a zoo. But seeing one this up close is just shocking and bewildering to us all. 

"Is that a polar bear?!" Pinkie gasped, but in an exciting tone before exclaiming "Wowie zowie! I didn't know that you guys can keep polar bears as pets! Why didn't I know that from the beginning?!"

"Yeah, that's Snow." Nicole explained with a soft smile. "My friend."

"Oh dear!" Fluttershy gasped, seeing the big polar bear licking Rantaro, who held an annoyed look while Gizmo raised his paw in protest while Kodiak walked over to Snow with a smile.

"Hi there!" Kodi called, gaining Snow's attention. "I'm Kodiak! Nice to meet ya, Snow!"

Snow waved her paw with a smile before licking his face, causing half of the fur on his face to be wet but he didn't mind as he laughed.

"Well at least we know that Snow is friendly." I grinned.

"B-but...!" We looked over to see Jamie hiding behind Twilight and Spike in fear. "W-why would a psychologist like Nicole have a polar bear for a pet?!"

"Wow...and I thought Pinkie Pie owning a gator was rough." Applejack whispered to Rainbow Dash, who nodded in agreement.

"Ooh!" Pinkie said in awe. "Nice choice! Polar bears are so cute! You and I are so alike, Nikki!"

"Please don't call me that..." Nicole said, looking away from her before walking over to Snow and petted her polar bear's face. "Come along Snow, let's head over back to our room."

Snow nodded before hopping off of Rantaro, who wiped away the saliva off his face with a grunt before putting his fedora back on just as Gizmo hopping onto his shoulder and nodded in agreement with the same look as Rantaro.

"Ugh...that's not gonna wash off for a while." Rantaro scoffed with Gizmo hopped back onto his shoulder with the same look his owner had.

"Hold on!" Kaede called. "Where are you going? I thought that we were going to investigate the place together?" 

"I'm sorry, but I'm not comfortable around other people." Nicole replied, glancing towards us. 

"Come on!" Rainbow grunted, rubbing her hooves across her face.

"Are you kidding me right now?" Jack grunted.

"Rainbow Dash! Jack! Be polite!" Rarity scolded, only to earn an annoyed look from the both of them. Mason stepped forward with a serious look and said "Listen Nicole, we can understand your reasons but the more you try to separate from us, the more we grow suspicious of your actions. You need to at least try and get along with us."

"I wished...but I can't." Nicole answered. "However, I may be useful in your investigations, but not in relationships."

"B-but I thought that we were super duper awesome friends!" Pinkie remarked with a sad and worried look. Nicole looked at her for a while before glancing away to her left and replied "No...I'm just not good with relationships except with Snow."

Snow roared in agreement as Nicole scratched it underneath the chin. "Now then, we should get going and we'll try to at least find any clues involving our memories."

"You know about you losing your memories already?!" Jamie exclaimed in surprise. "Did you study us a bit with your observation skills?"

"Yes." Nicole answered before she began walking away and probably headed to her room.

"She's gone..." Fluttershy muttered.

"Ahh..." Pinkie muttered, looking down sadly. "And I thought that we could be good friends."

"Tch! Let her be!" Jack scoffed. "No matter what, we can't get close to that girl as long as she keeps reading our minds."

"For once, I agree with the biker." Rantaro sighed. "Especially if that polar bear of hers tries and attack me again with its lick attacks."

"I take it you've encountered that bear when ya first found her?" Applejack guessed.

"Yeah, so?" Rantaro scoffed. 

"B-but we didn't see any polar bear when we were exploring the new floors." Jamie pointed out.

"Yeah, so how do you explain that?" Kaede wondered.

"That bear was sleeping in her room the other day, that's why you didn't noticed her." Rantaro explained, much to me and Kodi's shock.

"But we've been there before!" I exclaimed.

"And we didn't even see a bear with white fur in there when we went investigating the place!" Kodi added, also shocked by that revelation. Rantaro gave us both a smirk before saying "Guess you weren't looking hard enough."

Yeah, I guess so...

"Are we sure that we can even trust your word?" Jack growled. 

"And if I'm possibly lying?" Rantaro raised a brow with a shrug.

"Then I'll beat the crap out of ya." Jack cracked his fists until Mason blocked his way with his left arm extended in the way.

"Please, don't. Fighting against each other won't resolve anything." Mason scolded.

"He's right, we all need to work together." I added with a serious look. 

"Ren's right!" Fluttershy nodded, walking next to me with a concern yet stern look. "Could you please, like...not fight each other, Jack?"

Jack let out a scoff before looking away with a light blush and said "W-whatever...only because you're too soft for me to even both to argue."

"Oh...okay." Fluttershy smiled softly. 

"Guys, now's not the time." Twilight stated. "Right now, we're trying our best to find more clues about helping you guys find a way to get back to your pasts, but overall, our leads have getting nowhere and you guys haven't been remembering some stuff."

"Not true." Jack retorted. "I've been remembering some stuff...just forgot..."

"Of course you did..." Rainbow grunted. "Now you guys haven't been remembering any stuff for a while and we've haven't got a clue on how to get you guys back to your planet!"

"Wait Rainbow!" I begged with a worried look. "I'm sure we've been remembering stuff like about the part where I met a group of guys in black about some deal they were making which I was refusing."

"Oh yeah? Did you ever happen to figure out what they were talking about?" Rainbow raised a brow, causing me to slump my head down with a sad look. 

"No..." 

"Exactly! This has been a waste of time!" Rainbow growled.

"Rainbow Dash! Settle down!" Rarity scolded before taking a deep breath. "Look, we're all need a break. How about we do a little shopping?"

"Yeah, I think I needed that." Kaede rubbed her head bashfully with a small smile. "Besides, I'm sure we can clear our heads from all this searching for more clues."

We all looked at them for a while before looking at ourselves before letting out smiles. 

"Yeah! I do wanted to explore and see what a mall is like!" Kodi said in excitement. "This is my first time to ever be here before!"

"You can say that again!" I laughed with a grin, only to be grabbed ahold by Jack who held a toothily grin along with Mason in a massive bear hug. 

"Yeah, I guess we kinda need it. I'm hella starve!" Jack laughed, only to received widened eyes from Fluttershy, Jamie, Kaede, Kodi, Mason, and I. Mason stepped on his foot, causing him to yelp in surprise before glaring angrily at Mason and exclaimed "What the hell?!"

"Jack!" Mason pulled him by the collar and whispered "Are you serious right now? Remember, we can't let then know about us eating meat? Do you remember what we said about that? We only have to eat what they eat in Equestria, that way that they won't be freaked out by us!"

"Oh...right..." Jack rubbed his head bashfully, remembering our last conversation about that. "Fine..."

"Promise?" I asked, which he nodded. "Pinkie Promise?"

"Ugh..." Jack sighed before setting us down on the ground and did the Pinkie Promise gestures and said "Cross my heart, hope to die, stick a needle in my eye."

"...Well alright then." Despite him doing a different kind of Pinkie Promise, but overall, at least he accepted it.

"What are you guys talking about?" Twilight questioned. Me and Jack gave her nervous smiles while Mason crossed his arms with a serious look on his face, not showing any lie about it.

"Oh, it's nothing Twi." I assured with a nervous chuckle.

"It's none of ya business. This is man to man business." Jack patted me on the head while Mason nodded and replied "Indeed. We're sorry but it's something we can't tell you."

"Are you sure?" Twilight asked, feeling eager to learn from us. "What is it that you guys want to hide from us?"

"Umm...T-Twilight?" Jamie called. "I-it's nothing. Please."

Twilight looked at him with a soft smile before sighing and said "Alright...only because you said it."

"Well...thank you." Jamie looked away with a blush. "W-why not we head at the first floor of the mall? I-I think t-there's a book shop there. Perhaps there are some good books that you never read before due to being in...umm...different worlds?"

Twilight beamed at that idea with a bright smile before exclaiming "Would I?! You should never that I always enjoy reading the nice books! Come on!"

She grabbed him by the tie, forcing him to come along and show her that bookstore he claimed to see with Spike sighing and following after them. 

"Oh well, might've as well chased after them before they go 'geek mode'." Spike sighed with a soft grin. 

"Well I'm off heading back to the farm." Applejack said as she began walking away and headed down the stairs. "You coming Mason?"

"I'll catch up by the noon. I promise." Mason replied, which earned a smile on Applejack's face.

"Good to hear!" Applejack smiled before walking down the stairs and headed over to the central elevator, which we've began calling that elevator due to showing us the other floors of this home-ship, before walking inside of it and entering it.

"Well excuse me but I'm off to shop some new human clothing and gained inspiration on making new designs." Rarity chuckled with a smile before turning to Kaede. "Kaede darling, would you like to accompany me?"

"You bet!" Kaede smiled happily. "I am so excited to see what they got!" 

"Same here!" Rarity exclaimed before she and Kaede squealed in delight, causing us all to cover our ears in pain. 

"Yeah, don't ever do that again." Rantaro said with a slightly annoyed look on his face. With that, both Rarity and Kaede ran away towards a nearby clothes store. 

"Now excuse me..." Pinkie pulled a massive grin before putting on a party hat and said "I'm gonna head over to the Party City store and go and buy more of that party stuff to spread out more parties over at Ponyville! Woo-hoo!"

With that, she began back flipping towards the Party City store while we all had sweat-drops at her randomness. 

"That pink pony will always remain in my 'Top 10 Annoyances of my life' list." Rantaro scoffed. 

"You said it." Jack couldn't help but agree with him there.

"Please boys, don't be mean to Pinkie Pie." Fluttershy softly scolded. "She may be a little weird, but her weirdness always helps brings us a smile like when Ren encourages us to keep moving forward with smiles on our faces."

I blushed and rubbed the back of my head with a sheepish grin and replied "W-well...I suppose so..."

"Quite, for a young 15 year old, he sure does know how to encourage people." Mason softly grinned over me, but I barely see that through that red scarf of his, but I know that he's smiling. 

"Thanks, I guess." I chuckled nervously, rubbing my head.

"Whatever." Rainbow stretched her forehooves with a really tired out look. "If you excuse me, I'm gonna rest over at that bench."

With that, she flew over to one of the mall's benches and took a snooze there, which caused us all to laugh nervously and sweat-dropped a little. 

"Heh heh, good old Dashy, eh?" Kodi joked, which I nodded in agreement.

Suddenly, we heard the central elevator, which we decided to call upon due to leading us to different floors of the home-ship, opened up and revealed the Cutie-Mark Crusaders and Carrie walking in. I took noticed that there were wearing ecru hats like journalists and news reporters wear when interviewing people about live news, and they held notepads in their hands and or hooves.

"Whoa!" The three younger fillies said in awe. "When ya said that it was big and amazing, I didn't know that it was THIS big and amazing." Apple Bloom said in awe.

"Yeah! It makes ya feel like your princess of the world!" Sweetie Belle commented, examining some of the stores names.

"Carrie?" Mason raised a brow. "What are you and your friends doing here? Shouldn't you be at school?"

"Oh we were!" Carrie answered with a grin. "You see, we just signed up for the Journalist club and so we're just after a big scoop!"

"Really? A big scoop you say?" Rantaro asked, feeling a bit intrigued upon hearing that. "Well that's quite something to admire. If you want, I could tell you of my latest deals I made in the Underworld Society."

"Thanks, but no thanks Mr. Rantaro." Sweetie Belle rejected his offer with an innocent smile, causing him to blink in surprise with a little sweat-drop while his fedora tipped down a bit and Gizmo snickering at his friend. 

"Well...damn." Rantaro muttered.

"You joined a club that makes newspapers?" I asked rhetorically. "That's awesome!"

"Thanks Ren!" Apple Bloom giggled. "We're only doing this for one thing only!"

The three fillies bumped their rumps together with grins and shouted "Cutie Marks!"

"Of course you would." Mason chuckled before turning to his sister and asked "And I guess being a journalist might be a little hobby of yours, eh?"

"Yep! Just wanna try it out and see how fun it is!" Carrie said with determination before frowning a bit. "So far, we haven't made any good discoveries or news anypony wants to read."

"Really?" Kodi asked incredulously. "But don't ponies normally like read stuff no matter what it is."

"I know right?" Scootaloo scoffed. "Everypony's a critic."

"Tell me about it." Rantaro shrugged before rubbing his chin in thought. "But you know, why not you write a news report about something that pizzazz's the crowd. Like something you can make up to make ponies really amazes them."

"I know. I thought coming here and interviewing you guys might be a great idea to enjoy." Carrie explained. "I mean, I'm sure the many ponies of Ponyville are so eager to learn more about you guys!"

"Really?" I asked incredulous.

"Ooh, that sounds so nice." Fluttershy giggled. "I'm sure you girls will do an amazing job at being journalists for the school news."

"Seriously, who reads the school news?" Jack rolled his eyes. "I rather go watch TV and take a nap like what Rainbow Dash is doing."

"Wait, Rainbow Dash is here?!" Scootaloo shouted in awe and excitement.

"Yeah, she's just taking a nap over there." Kodi pointed over to Dash, who was still snoozing over by the mall's bench like a little baby. 

"No way!" Scootaloo shouted in amazement before covering her mouth, not wanting to wake her up. "I-I mean...no way."

"Well it's best if you don't wake her up." Fluttershy suggested. "She's been investigating with the rest of us for a while now and you know how you like it when she takes a power nap."

"Yeah, and if I know about taking naps is that you never interrupt the one taking a nap." Jack added, scratching his butt a little. "Specifically, me."

"Okay." Carrie smiled. "Ooh! How about an interview big brother? Can we please?"

"Heh heh, okay sis." Mason nodded with a smile.

"Hey, I want in on it too!" I offered, raising my hand in the air.

"Meh, I've seen better. Don't wanna give out much about myself." Rantaro replied before walking off. 

"Well he's gone..." Kodi watched him leave with Gizmo by his side. "Say, can I join in too on this interview? I wanna see what it's like to be in one!"

"Say Flutters, you want in?" Fluttershy froze at that before looking down at the girls' excited looks on their faces, causing her to glanced away nervously. "W-well..."

"Don't worry, I'll be by your side." I assured with a wink, which made Fluttershy smile softly at that idea. 

"O-Okay...I trust you Ren." Fluttershy smiled.

"Awesome!" Scootaloo cheered.

"Our first interview!" Sweetie Belle cheered. 

"About time!" Apple Bloom grinned.

"Come on! Let's go over to the food court and discuss our interview there!" Carrie offered, which we all nodded in agreement and also because we heard the loud rumbling from Jack's stomach, prompting us to give him weird looks.

"What?" He asked bluntly. 

Well...this might be a long interview. 



My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic
Later
We soon headed over to the food court to prepare ourselves for the little interview, which consist of me, Fluttershy, Kodiak, Mason, and Jack. Carrie and the Crusaders looked at us with excited grins as Scootaloo cleared her throat and said "So tell us, what're your names?"

"Oh, well it's Ren Loodan." I introduced myself with a grin.

"Names Jack Yamaki."

"I am Mason Hunter." 

"I'm Kodiak!"

"A-And...I-I'm Fluttershy..." Fluttershy mumbled nervously, only to receive confused looks from the girls.

"I'm sorry, what?" Sweetie Belle asked, not hearing what she said.

"I-I'm...Fluttershy..." She spoke up a little louder, but not enough for the others to hear.

"What?" Scootaloo asked.

"Hold on!" I stopped them with a somewhat nervous look. "She's just introducing herself as Fluttershy, that's all."

"Oh, okay." Scootaloo grinned as the girls began copying down notes before looking back and asked "So tell us, what exactly are a bunch of specimen are doing here in Equestria?"

"Well...we don't know honestly." I rubbed my cheek with an embarrassed look.

“In case you forgot, we can’t remember anything on how we even gotten in this damn place!” Jack exclaimed.

“Calm down Jack.” Mason said sternly before turning back to his sister and friends. “Anyway, what my friend is trying to say is that we don’t remember on how we got here. We’ve been wondering about that for a while and yet we don’t remember a thing. Surely you remember that, right Carrie?”

“Sure do big brother!” Carrie smiled happily before writing down some notes. 

“But surely you guys haven’t been thinking about your missing memories, right?” Sweetie Belle questioned.

“No, of course not.” I shook my head with a grin on my face. “We’ve been wondering much about our missing memories for a while. I think we had dreams of them, but haven’t been remembering much about it.”

“Boy, you sure missed being at your home planet, huh?” Scootaloo wondered aloud.

“Well yeah, we have our friends and families back home.” I pointed out. 

“And while on that…” Sweetie Belle turned to Mason with an innocent smile and asked “Tell me Mason, do you have anyone that you’re particularly close to?”

Mason glanced away with a light blush and soft smile on his face.

“W-well…there is one person that I want to see again. It’s Elena, it’s almost been a year with me and my sister being here in your world but we haven’t found a way back nor had any contact to our world.” Mason explained. “I just wished I could see her again. I don’t care what’s happening, all I care is about how she’s doing and the rest of the royal family.”

“Don’t worry big brother, I’m sure Elena’s alright.” Carrie assured with a soft grin. “She’s tough, so I know that she’s not giving up on finding us.”

“Right…” Mason nodded with a smile.

“Well…” Sweetie Belle make a sneaky smile on her face before asking “Do you, by chance, have any crush on a certain white unicorn sister of mine?”

That’s what caught Mason off-guard as his face turned red and exclaimed “I-I am sorry, I would not want to answer that question!”

“Come on, we’re all eager!” Sweetie Belle pleaded.

“Alright Sweetie Belle, that’s enough.” Fluttershy insisted with a light chuckle. “You heard Mason, he wishes not to answer that.”

“Hey, he already plead the fifth.” I agreed while trying my best not to laugh. Seriously though, isn’t that funny to hear Rarity’s own sister asking him something like that?

“Well about you big guy?” Scootaloo asked Jack. “I’ve noticed you exercising with Jamie, Mason, and Ren the other day, care to tell us why?”

“We just want to exercise, that’s all.” Jack answered, picking his ear a bit. “That’s all I can tell ya.”

“Ahh, can you tell us more?” Apple Bloom begged.

“No!” Jack yelled, much to their disappointment. Apple Bloom then turned to me and asked “So Ren, how is it that you’re so good at art?”

“Oh, I done plenty of arts and crafts when I was in middle school.” I explained. “It’s pretty much a fun subject but I was kinda shy and embarrassed to admit my talents to other people other than my family.”

“Really?” Apple Bloom asked in surprise. “But you look like you don’t mind anything about ya being revealed over the year.”

“Yeah…I figured…” I chuckled while Carrie walked over to Kodiak and asked “So Kodi, I’ve always been wondering since I first met you…How did you ever learn to talk?”

“Oh that?” Kodi chuckled, wagging his tail a bit. “It’s pretty much a long story but to cut it short, it was because I wanted to see how ponies do it.”

“Do it?” Fluttershy asked curiously. Kodi nodded to her before replying “Yeah, I always hear them talking so much from where I was born and so one day, I tried it out but it took longer to even pronounce words.”

“Wait what?” I asked in confusion. “But Twilight told me that a few animals are born with the ability to talk when we first met. This is the first time I’m hearing about this.”
“Me too.” Fluttershy nodded. “Umm…did you…learn it yourself?”

“W-well…yeah.” Kodi nodded, his smile turning into a frown. “It’s a long story…but maybe another time.”

I nodded before patting him on the back, causing him to smile back at me while I smiled back at him. But you know, this is quite weird. If Kodi never been born with the ability to talk, does that mean…he learned it on his own? That’s…awesome! I wonder what Jamie and Twilight’s reaction upon ever finding out about that from Kodiak? Probably geeking out or something Jack and Spike would say.

“Anyway…” Mason looked over at the clock, seeing the hour hand turning to twelve. “I should get going. I’m about to head off to Sweet Apple Acres to work.”

“Oh right, you work there.” Jack snorted. “Well be back. Remember, I want to have an arm wrestling match to test more of your strength.”

“Hmm…Challenge accepted.” Oh boy…these two are acting like friendly rivals, or maybe deadly rivals that want to prove to each other who’s the strongest like Goku and Vegeta from the DBZ/DBS series.

“Ahh…” The girls sighed sadly as Carrie looked at her brother and asked “Can’t you stay for five more minutes?” 

“Sorry Carrie, but I promise that you can ask me more questions after work...” Mason offered.

Carrie thought for a while before letting out a sigh and smiling softly at her brother. “Okay big brother.”

“Well…” Apple Bloom tapped her pen by the chin before turning to Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo as she asked “What do you girls think? Wanna end the interview for now? I mean, I’m sure we got plenty of info that we can share for the school news. I’m sure everypony are eager to learn more about these guys, right?”

“Yeah.” Scootaloo shrugged.

“You betcha!” Sweetie Belle smiled. “Soon enough, we’ll get those journalists cutie-marks!”

“Yeah!” The four girls cheered loudly before bidding us farewell and immediately took their leave with Mason following after them before turning back to us and said “Well I better go, see ya you guys.”

“See ya Mase!” I grinned while waving goodbye at him before he took his leave out of the mall district and the home-ship to go over to Sweet Apple Acres to work. Jack turned to me with a confused look and asked “Hey kid, when did Mason started working there?”

“Hmm…” I thought for a while, trying to remember when it happened. “I guess you can say about two months during the Zap Apple Jam.”
“Zap apple jam? The hell is that?” Jack asked.

“Oh right, you and Rantaro weren’t there for it.” I chuckled, rubbing my head bashfully.

“Well either way, I’m glad those girls joined a club.” Fluttershy smiled. “They looked pretty excited but I’m not so sure if they’re gonna get their cutie marks.”

“Don’t sweat it, Flutters.” I assured with a soft grin. “Maybe once they start getting good with their little club activity, then I’m sure they’re gonna do well in it, right?”

“Yeah.” Kodi nodded in agreement. “I mean, we all started off badly but sooner or later we started to get good with what we do best, right?”

“Yeah.” Fluttershy nodded. “It took me about a year to fully learn what the animals are saying after I earned my cutie-mark.”

“Same here.” Jack rubbed his nose a bit before saying “It took me about several weeks to catch up with my old man and the rest of the gang. I was all the way at the back of the gang, but sooner or later, I started to improve and managed to ride alongside my old man. It was a proud moment there.”

“Well I guess maybe for you.” I chuckled nervously before noticing the others walking by to the food court with happy smiles and such. Twilight and Jamie were discussing about books of astronomy while Spike held a Marvels Comic book in his hands with an interested look on his face while carrying a wagon filled with many books. Yikes, those two went full-out on that book shop, did they? 

Rarity and Kaede held many bags in their arms, probably from all the shopping from that clothes store they entered. Pinkie Pie…well, she nearly looked like a clown for a minute there due to all the party outfits she’s been wearing.

“Ahh, it was such a wonderful experience.” Rarity sighed in joy.

“I know right? I haven’t done any shopping for such a long time since getting here.” Kaede chuckled in agreement.

“I know right? Now I have more books than ever to read and bring back to the library.” Twilight said, not gazing at us while she and Jamie read each different book about astronomy. 

“Quite, and it would be quite amazing for others to learn more about our world. Think of it as…culture shock.” Jamie smiled happily.

“Yeah, you two keep dreaming on that.” Spike rolled his eyes. “I wanna hurry up and read this comic book I got from that comic shop called ‘Marvels Comics’.”

“Oh wow, didn’t know they had something like that here!” I said in excitement. “I bet they even got some mangas that I haven’t read like Inuyasha and more of My Hero Academia and Assassination Classroom!”

“Those are some…peculiar names for a bunch of books.” Rarity remarked, raising a brow at me.

"Hey! I love mangas, alright?" I asked, pouting my cheeks at her while the rest just laughed at me. 

"You know, we should do this more often." Kodi suggested.

"Agreed!" Pinkie nodded in agreement before blowing into a loud party kazoo, immediately waking up Rainbow Dash as she stood up and raised her hoof in a salute and exclaimed "I'm up! I'm up!"

"About time, Skittles." Jack grinned, causing the rest of us to laugh while Rainbow Dash blushed in embarrassment.

"S-Shut up!" She exclaimed.

"You know, maybe Kodiak has a point." Kaede insisted. "We've been working very hard lately and maybe we do need a break." 

"Yeah." I nodded. "How about we spend the rest of the day by relaxing and having fun by the other places here in the home-ship? I mean, we can go swimming by the basement's pool and such. That'll be fun and awesome, right?"

"Yeah, that could work." Twilight smiled. "I guess we really do need a break." 

"You can say that again." Rarity sighed happily. "After all the hard work we've all been through the past months, I don't think we ever had a break."

"You can say that again." I nodded in agreement with a smile. "We can invite everyone to join in on the fun!"

"Even Rantaro and that psychologist?" Jack grunted, which I nodded. "Good luck on trying to convince those two."

"Come on, I'm sure it'll work out." I assured with a soft grin.

"Yeah, have more faith Jack." Fluttershy said, only to receive a grunt from him, much to her disappointment. "Oh well...so do you guys wanna meet up tomorrow at noon? I think that's the only time that I'm free."

"I see why not." Rarity nodded with a smile. "I'll be sure to let Applejack know. Right now, I should go and try out these designs to match them on pony sizes."

"Me too!" Kaede grinned before the two began walking away. 

"In the meantime, me and Twilight are going to look over these books back to the library." Jamie said, placing the book back on the wagon while Spike carried it.

"And tonight, we're gonna have a little night study on it!" Twilight squealed in excitement before she and Jamie began taking her leave.

"Yeah, I rather get out and go practice more of my tricks!" Rainbow stretched her back before flying off. "Catch ya in the flip side!"

With that, the others began taking their leave, leaving me, Kodi, Fluttershy, and Jack alone in the mall district.

"Well, I do need a good break." Jack yawned. "But I'm still not convince that broker and psychologist chick is gonna join us in our day-off."

"Well I have high hopes that they will!" I assured with a confident smirk. "Trust me that they will come."

"Well if Ren says so, then I'll believe in him!" Kodi grinned with Fluttershy nodding in agreement before saying "Mm-hmm! I'm sure Ren can convince those two to come."

"Whatever, you guys are unbelievable." Jack scoffed. "Now excuse me, I'm gonna grab a burger."

Fluttershy irked at that idea until I gave Jack a stern look and said "Jack, we've been through this! We can't eat meat in this world! If everyone sees us eating that then imagine just how their reactions are!"

"Hey! Shut up!" Jack hissed before pushing me through and headed towards one of the food places in the food courts while I sighed, realizing that there's no way convincing someone like him.

Fluttershy walked over and comforted me by holding onto my hand with her hoof, which made me to look at her. "Don't worry Ren, it's understandable that you and the others are trying to adapt in our world, but what if the others do know about you guys eating meat?"

I rubbed the back of my neck in thought. I can imagine that they would scream and be terrified of us. I don't want that to happen, but...I know that we might be able to convince the other ponies that there's nothing to be afraid of us. I'm sure the ponies here aren't that cruel, right?

"I can imagine..." I sighed before turning to her with a soft smile. "But don't worry, I'm sure that even if it happens, we'll be able to convince everypony in Ponyville that we're not gonna eat them nor eat any meat as long as we're here. Besides, the food here in Equestria are quite delicious despite being made of hay."

"Well it's nice to hear that you enjoy our diet." Fluttershy giggled. "Well anyway, I should get going and I hope we meet again tomorrow at noon."

"You bet!" I nodded with a smile. "Let's meet at the swimming pool. You know, to catch up and take a dip in the pool, you know?"

"Okay." Fluttershy nodded before flying up and kissed me on the cheek, causing me to blush a bit before she took her leave while Kodi raised a brow, looking between me and Fluttershy before forming a smile.

"Wow, you must really love getting kiss, eh?" Kodi joked. "You know, you're starting to improve on this relationship of hers, eh?"

"Y-yeah..." I chuckled before hearing a camera flash, much to my confusion. I looked around and noticed that no one was here. Strange, could've sworn that there was a camera flash in here. I guess that was my imagination...

Besides, the only ones who's in here is just me, Kodiak, and Jack, who was busy chopping down a big meaty hamburger which made me and Kodi just looked at each other with nervous chuckles. Oh well, you know how Jack is with tasting meat but hopefully we can keep hiding this secret as long as we can.



The Next Day
And so, another day has passed since our investigation at the mall district. None of us went into Nicole's room due to...well, her room. And so, we came into the dining hall with the others already eating breakfast and enjoying their time eating their breakfast. 

"Hey you guys!" I called before noticing Nicole eating her breakfast. "Oh? Nicole!"

"Hello." She waved at me slowly before taking a bite of her pancake. 

"So I take it that you want to hang out with us for breakfast every morning?" I asked with a smile.

"No." She answered bluntly, much to my confusion. "I'm sorry, but I only came here to eat."

"B-but-"

"You were gonna ask me about taking a swim at the basement's pool? Was I correct?" Oh wow, she did it again!

"Y-yeah..." I nodded.

"Ren suggested it." Kodi added. "We thought everyone should come and enjoy themselves for to rest up."

"No thank you." Nicole replied before taking her plate and began taking her leave towards the central elevator. I slumped my head down a bit with a sigh before saying "Oh well, at least we tried to convince her."

"I know how you feel Ren, but you know that she doesn't like company." Kaede reminded me, causing me to rub my head bashfully with a nervous smile.

"Yeah, I get the idea but..."

"Don't worry Ren, I'm sure she'll try to hang out with us at least." Mason assured with a soft grin. I nodded before sitting down and eating my pancakes before noticing Jamie and Carrie weren't here. 

"Hey, where did Carrie and Jamie go?" I asked, noticing that they aren't in the dining hall table.

"Jamie went to stay overnight with Twilight for night studies." Kaede explained.

"And I brought Carrie early to school so that she can finish up with her journalist work with the Crusaders." Mason added. Oh, well I guess Rantaro is an exception considering how he always likes eating alone at whatever he goes to. 

Suddenly, I heard a loud burp which came by Jake as he let out a satisfied sigh.

"Heh, you never cease to amaze me with your cooking Mason." Jake laughed, which earned a smirk from Mason's face. 

"Well...I've been taught how to cook by the maids in the castle during my trainer." Mason chuckled. 

"You know, you're quite good at taking care of us." Kaede chuckled before turning to me and asked "Say Ren, do you know how to cook?"

"Well yeah." I rubbed my head bashfully before saying "Well...only pancakes, that's all."

"I-I see." Kaede rubbed her cheek with a smile before we heard a knock from the door, prompting me and Kodi to walk over to the door and opened it, revealing the rest of the gang. 

"Oh hey girls, Jamie." I greeted with a smile. "You came to hang out for the day-off?" 

"Hey, we did agree on that didn't we?" Twilight chuckled with a smile.

"You bet! I heard about swimming in the pool in the basement so that's why I'm excited to do this!" Spike grinned. 

"Yep!" Applejack grinned. "Fluttershy told me about taking the day-off thing, so I thought I could use my break to hang out with the rest of ya over by the pool."

"Quite!" Rarity smiled, carrying a sack that was around her back. "I've brought and prepared myself these many swimming outfits I brought over."

"And I have many books that I want to read." Jamie meekly smiled, holding onto some books that he and Twilight might've gotten from the book shop at the mall district. Jamie let out a sad frown and said "I-I'm sorry...I'm not so much of a good swimmer."

"Hey, it's okay." I assured with a soft grin. "You don't have to swim as long as the rest of us spend some time with each other at the pool."

"Yeah! What's important is spending time with each other as friends!" Kodi smiled, wagging his tail in joy. Fluttershy let out a smile before flying over and scratched him underneath the chin, much to his joy. 

"Ahh, thanks you two." Fluttershy smiled.

"Oh, it's you guys." Mason said, walking over to the door with a smile along with Kaede and Jack. "Well you sure came early. I thought for sure we meet up at noon?"

"We were but we thought that we could have more time together earlier." Twilight explained. "Besides, me and Jamie are nearly finished up with the books that we got over by the bookshop."

"Already?!" Kaede asked in bewilderment. 

"Y-yeah..." Jamie yawned before having a soft smile. "W-we worked read almost every b-book and wanted to f-finish it during our little day-off."

"Well that's awesome to hear at least!" I chuckled with a grin. "Well we're almost done with breakfast, so why not we head over to the pool after we're done?"

"Of course!" Twilight nodded.

"Say, where the hell is Skittles?" Jack questioned, noticing a certain blue Pegasus wasn't here. "You would think she wouldn't want to miss a day-off?"

"Oh right." Fluttershy tapped her chin in thought. "She said that she was trying to finish up with her work early by scheduling the other workers for more weather reports around Ponyville for the week and the week after that."

"Don't you worry, if I know Rainbow Dash then she'll get here in no time and won't miss out on the fun." Applejack assured, earning a scoff from him.

"I'm not worry about Skittles, that's all AJ." Jack scoffed. "Come on, let's just go and if she doesn't show up and misses the party, then it's her fault."

"Sure." I rolled my eyes with an amused smile while the others snickered at Jack, which he noticed.

"What?" He asked grumpily. 

"Nothing." We all answered before we began heading inside where we finished up the last of our breakfast and decided to head down to the basement through the central elevator down towards the locker room.

"Been a while since we last explored this place." I commented.

"Yeah, it was during when you were asleep after Rantaro shocked you out of the blue, right?" Kodi asked, which made me rubbed the back of my neck while the others looked at each other in concern, remembering that fateful day when we first met up with him and Jack.

"Yeah, but it's best not to be reminded of that." I chuckled nervously with a nervous grin before heading over to the two locker doors. "Alright, we all just need to go to the separate rooms, right?"

"Y-yes." Jamie nodded with a smile, gazing at the two doors. "B-blue is for the boys and the pink is for the girls."

"Well come on! Let's go then!" Kaede exclaimed in joy before she and the rest of the girls headed over to the girls locker room while me, Jack, Jamie, Mason and Kodiak headed into the boys locker room to prepared ourselves in the room. 

"Why is it that the boys and girls have different locker rooms?" Kodi wondered aloud. 

"Did you even ask that question?" Jack asked, sneering at the dog.

"It's...a long story." I answered with a soft grin, petting Kodiak on the door.

"What do ya mean?" Kodi asked, tilting his head with an innocent look.

"W-well it's because of...p-personal things." Jamie explained, furthering more confusion to Kodiak.

"Really? What do you mean?"

"Just drop it please." Mason sighed. "Now come on, let's go." 

We all nodded before taking off our clothes and put on our swim trunks with Jamie, Mason, and I wearing normal short trunks while Jack wore a swim trunk that it was almost looked like a thong.

“Alright, let’s go!” Jake walked towards the door with the rest of us towards the pool where we met up with the rest of the girls where Kaede was wearing a swim suit model while the rest of the girls had pool floats on them. 

“Hey you guys! There you are!” Kaede smiled. “Heh heh, you’re just in time to take a swim down there.”

“Yep!” Applejack nodded, sitting down on the lifeguard chair. “And I’ll be keeping an eye out for you guys just in case there’s no horsing around in that pool.”

“Of course you would.” Jack muttered in a deadpan look. 

“Well either way, this might be a good chance to have some fun at least.” I said with a soft grin.

“Quite.” Mason nodded. “It would be fun for Carrie to come but she has school work to go and finish up.”

As well as Rantaro and Nicole, but you know those two…

“Don’t worry, I’m sure they would enjoy it.” Fluttershy assured, swimming by the pool side. 

“Yeah…” I sighed.

“Actually, we can.” Huh? Is that…? The moment we turned our backs, we saw…

“Rantaro! And Nicole?!” It was them right there in front of us, and it would seem that they were wearing swim trunks like we are. Does that mean…?

“What brings you two here?” Mason asked.

“Good heavens!” Rarity widened her eyes and looked over at them from her lounge chair. “I was sure you two wouldn’t want to join us in a little swimming considering you two being…antisocial.”

“Yeah, yeah, keep that Atlanta Georgia accent to yourself.” Rantaro hushed her, much to her annoyance.

“So wait, a-are you two joining us in on the fun?” Jamie asked in confusion.

“Yeah, so?” Rantaro asked.

“He convinced me.” Nicole answered bluntly, much to our surprise.

“So wait…Rantaro convinced you to come and enjoy our swimming meet here?” Twilight asked with an incredulous brow.

“I find it hard to believe.” Spike added, swimming in the pool with Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie.

“Yeah, since when the hell did Rantaro even cared about anyone other than himself?” Applejack thought aloud.

“Maybe he didn’t feel like being left out, along with Nicole?” Kodi suggested.

“No, I just felt like it.” Rantaro answered. “I overheard your little conversation about hanging over by the swimming pool today and thought that you all can’t have any fun without this guy.”

“I still find that hard to believe.” Jack scoffed.

“Yes, quite. He is lying about it.” Nicole answered with a nod. “His real reason was to try and spend time with you all.”

That caused a little twitch from his brow and gave her a scowl before saying “And here I thought you couldn’t keep your mouth shut.”

“I was just saying.”

“Jeez, you two just argue like a couple.” Kaede said with a deadpanned look. Umm…I’m not so sure about that Kaede. 

“So are you two gonna join us for the rest of the day?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Jeez, that’s what we’re saying, duh!” Rantaro scoffed. “It’s not like I have any feelings for any of you sore losers.”

“Hmph! Well I never!” Rarity scoffed, irritated by Rantaro’s attitude.

Rantaro is a total mystery to us considering that he’s known for being the Shadow Broker back in our world. He never reveals anything about his past or anything like that because he always conceals it with a veil of his own lies but I wonder…is what Nicole said is the truth? That he didn’t feel like being left out on the fun? I can’t help but feel quite curious to know more about Rantaro.

“Well either way, I guess I’m glad to see you two here.” I said with a smile.

“Same here.” Kaede nodded in agreement. “I can tell you two are gonna enjoy swimming.”

“I rather not.” Nicole stated before she began walking towards the lounge chairs where Twilight and Rarity were sitting as she sat down on the middle one between them with her eyes gazing at the iPad. Of course she would do something like that.

“And if you don’t mind, I guess a little swim won’t hurt.” Rantaro shrugged before turning over to the pool and put down his fedora as Gizmo was near his shoulders. “So…what do you say? Or else you guys are too chicken?”

Jack gritted his teeth in anger towards Rantaro before exclaiming “Ooh! You’re so gonna get it!”

Jack immediately jumped into the pool, creating a big splash that neither Fluttershy, Spike, Pinkie Pie, nor Applejack could avoided, as well as the rest of us as we were all wet from Jack’s splash.

“I was being sarcastic.” Rantaro muttered while Gizmo shook himself, attempting to get all the water off his body before starting squeaking at Jack, like he was protesting.

“Ha! Whatever!” Jack toothily grinned while the rest of us either gave him amused looks or irritated frowns, which was mostly from Rarity. 

“Jack! No splashing in the pool!” Applejack scolded, causing Jack to make an amused grin and said “Hmph! You’re not my mom!”

“Grr!” Applejack narrowed her eyes at him.

“That’s gotta be the biggest splash I’ve seen anypony ever done!” Pinkie commented. “You gotta teach me how to do that!”

“Hmph, I like the sound of that!” Jack smirked, which made the rest of us chuckled in delight.

“Well come on!” Kodi exclaimed, which I nodded in agreement. We both took a step back before jumping into the pool as we both screamed “Cannonball!”

Our splash was nothing compared to Jack since it was a little small but Fluttershy clapped her hooves together to help boost my confidence.

“That was a good splash Ren!” I rubbed the back of my neck with a sheepish grin and said “Well maybe not as good as Jack’s, but hey! At least I tried.”

“Here we come!” We looked over to see Kaede and Mason jumping into the pool while Rantaro climbed down the pool’s ladder and enjoyed himself in it, along with his raccoon friend, Gizmo. Jamie, Nicole, Twilight, and Rarity were sitting on the lounge chairs with relaxed looks on their faces while Twilight and Jamie were relieved that none of the books they brought over were caught up in Jack’s splash. Rarity herself put her two hooves behind her backs with a sigh of relief escaping from her mouth. Nicole was busy looking over her iPad with a neutral look on her face, not looking interested in the activities we were doing.

Kodiak, Fluttershy, Pinkie, and I were splashing each other with water while Jack and Mason tried to see who can swim the fastest while Rantaro just sat there on the water with a relaxed and amused smirk on his face. 

You know, we were having a good time with each other. But you know, it kinda feels bad not having Carrie join in on the fun but she is a student over by the Ponyville Elementary School, well…the first human student there anyway. 

But soon our fun lasted till we heard one of the locker rooms doors slammed open, revealing to be Rainbow Dash holding a newspaper in her hooves.

“You guys! The new Gabby Gums just came out!” She held a newspaper in front of us while we looked up from either our lounge chairs or the pool area. “The Great and Powerful Trixie secrets revealed!”

“Trixie?” I asked in mild surprise. Huh, haven’t heard from her for a while.

“Wait, who the hell’s Trixie?” Jack questioned. 

“She’s a magician that proclaims herself as ‘Great and Powerful’.” I explained with a sigh. “But we learn that she wasn’t so ‘Great and Powerful’ but a boastful mare and nearly made Twilight go so worried about her powers.”

“R-Really?” Jamie asked, turning to Twilight in a worried look. Twilight rubbed the back of her head with a sigh before saying “Yeah, it’s a long story but I’ll tell you later.”

“We know Rainbow Dash, we already heard about that story a while back.” Rarity waved it off. 

“You have Rarity?” Alex asked with a raised brow. “Do you happened to read it earlier before coming here?”

“Oh quite Mason!” Rarity nodded. “See, just after we left the home-ship and as I came back to my home, I came across Sweetie Belle’s bag and I just couldn’t resist the temptation of peeking in and I just happened to find a newspaper article about some ponies getting gum all over their body. It was hilarious!”

“I see, so I take it that it was made by this Gabby Gums reporter?” Mason guessed, which she nodded. 

“BWAHAHAHAHA!” Rantaro and Jack laughed while the rest of us snickered, except Nicole but I saw the small amused smile on her face.

“So this Gabby Gums just made a funny report about two ponies getting gum stuck to each other?” Kaede laughed. “I mean, how does that even happen?!”

“That’s what I’m wondering!” I laughed.

“So wait, do you still have the newspaper?!” Kodi asked, trying to contain his laughter.

“I’m afraid not because the moment I kept reading it, Sweetie Belle came back and snatched it away from me with an irritated look on her face.” Rarity explained. “I wasn’t quite sure why she was so angry.”

“W-well…y-you did looked into her bag without h-her permission…” Jamie explained.

“I suppose that is true.” Rarity shrugged.

“Hmm…” Nicole glanced down, like she was in deep thought. I wonder what she’s thinking about.

“So what do you guys think of her?” I wondered aloud.

“Well I suppose that she is alright.” Mason smiled a bit.

“Yep, whoever the hell is this Gabby Gums is okay in my book.” Jack grinned.

“I don’t know you guys.” Twilight shook her head. “I mean, I like Gabby Gums too, but don’t you think she can be a little mean?”

“She’s not mean, Twilight, she’s a hoot!” Applejack smiled before noticing Pinkie jumping into the pool with a huge splash that nearly gotten me, Fluttershy, and Kodiak wet. “Pinkie Pie! I thought I told you no making huge splashes in the pool!”
“But Jack did it!” Pinkie pointed out, earning another scolded look from the farmer.

“I have to agree with Twilight.” Jamie said, looking over one of the newspaper articles. “I mean, look at this.” He showed us a newspaper article about Princess Celestia…having some cake frosting on her mouth while she eats some chocolate cake. “I mean ‘Celestia Just Like Us?’, Gabby Gums doesn’t seem to value anyone’s or anypony’s privacy. I-I mean…don’t you think it’s rude?”

“Jamie has a point.” Twilight nodded. “I mean, it is quite troubling if this keeps up. Who knows what Gabby Gums could do? I mean, she could even post some embarrassing secrets of our own.”

“Oh lighten up, Jamie, Twilight, there’s nothing but harmless gossip!” Rarity assured.

“Yeah, I mean they’re just some little gossips, that’s all.” I added with a grin.

“Yeah, Twilight, Jamie, I mean listen to this one.” We looked over at Pinkie as she pulled out a piece of paper out of the pool, which we will never ask how is it not wet before reading the headlines. “Mayor Not Naturally Gray!’ The Mayor in a mane dyeing scandal? Who wouldn’t wanna read that?

“I just can’t help feeling sorry for the ponies featured in her columns. It’s gotta be a little embarrassing.” Twilight retorted.

“Indeed, I mean I am praised by many of my s-supporting f-fans of my novels…” Jamie twiddled his fingers with a nervous and worried look. “But I mostly don’t make my appearances on TV a lot because I don’t like being in front of crowds.”

“I know that feeling.” Fluttershy sighed sadly.

“Are you kidding?” Rainbow laughed with an excited smile on her face. “Do you know how awesome it is to get your name in the paper?”

“You can say that again Skittles.” Jack toothily grinned. “I wouldn’t mind these ponies to get used to my awesomeness, my guts, and my muscles.” Jack started flexing his chubby muscles, which made the rest of us laughed as Rainbow commented “Yeah right! Like someone get into the newspaper, fatty!”
“Shaddup!” Jack snarled. “Like someone yourself can get into the newspaper!”
Rainbow glared at him before exclaiming “Yeah right, like you can even become as cool as me!”
“Wanna bet?” Jack growled.

“Calm down you two.” I chuckled.
“Ren’s right, we don’t need another fight between you two lovebergs.” Applejack giggled, earning two angry looks from the two stubborn pony and human we call friends.

“We are not lovebergs!” Rainbow and Jack yelled in outrage.

“Settle down you two.” Rantaro waved it off before gazing at Rainbow Dash. “So I take it you came here to enjoy our day-off?”
“Well I came here to tell you the big news, but I guess why not.” Rainbow shrugged before flying over to one of the nearby lounge chairs, much to her joy. “Ahh yeah, now this is the life…”

“You know, I sure love to have Gabby Gums do a story about me.” Kodi smiled. 

“Yeah, same here.” Kaede nodded before turning to me and asked “What do you think Ren?”
“Oh me?” I asked incredulous before rubbing my cheek in embarrassment. “I’m not sure. I guess I could show them my art portraits that I made over whenever I feel bored.”

“She did one on me.” Wait what?! We all gazed at Spike with shocked and excited looks as we yelled out “What?!”

“Aaah!” Spike fell off the lounge chair before getting back up and dusting himself off. “Well it’s true! She did an interview with me and boy, am I famous or what?”

“S-so you know who Gabby Gums is?” Jamie asked, which Spike nodded.

“Do you suppose you could tell us more about her?” Mason questioned.

“Sorry, but it’s a secret. She said she likes her appearance to be well hidden.” Spike winked, much to our disappointment.

“Spike is telling the truth.” Rantaro called out. “But you seemed pretty sure to hide Gabby Gum’s identity over something like that. I mean, why is that?”

“Well we’re just becoming good friends, that’s all.” Spike answered.

“You’re becoming quite nervous.” Nicole pointed out, much to our confusion. “I can see a sweat from your brow.”

“W-what? Where?!” Spike exclaimed in shock before touching his forehead to look for it. However, that was a little trick devised by Nicole herself.

“Nothing, it just shows that you’re hiding something about Gabby Gums.” Nicole stated bluntly, much to Spike’s shock. “I’m sorry if I had to lie to you in order to gain much info about that…” She narrowed her eyes towards him. “But I know that you know something about Gabby Gums than we do.”

“Oh really?” I asked in surprise before turning to Spike and asked “So Spike, what is it that you’re hiding from us?”
“I told you that it’s nothing!” Spike exclaimed. “I’m sorry but I can’t tell you guys!”

“Can we even be sure that he’s even met Gabby Gums?” Jack asked deadpanned. “I mean, why the hell would some pony like her want to meet up with some baby dragon.”

“Hey! I take offense to that!” Spike exclaimed angrily.

“That is a good question.” Mason couldn’t help but agree, ignoring the protests from the dragon himself. 

“Well maybe she likes interviewing anypony they meet?” Kodi suggested, but for some reason…I sorta have my doubts. Just who is this Gabby Gums pony? I bet this pony is something of a journalist, eh?



Meanwhile
"Exclusive! Local Dragon Tells all!" Carrie announced, showing a newspaper in front of the desk of a familiar pink tiara wearing pony, Diamond Tiara. Apparently, when Carrie and the Cutie-Mark Crusaders joined the Journalist club, they became shocked to learn that the school bully, Diamond Tiara, became the head of the club and has been giving them assignments to go look out for assignments, but when they came up with the Gabby Gums story, Diamond Tiara has been forcing them to do more gossip by spilling the beans all over the citizens of Ponyville.

"Spike opens up about Canterlot, naps, and his favorite jams!" Carrie smiled brightly. "Do you like it Diamond Tiara? We spoken about almost everypony in town!"

"It's our best column yet!" Scootaloo grinned.

"More like your worst column yet!" Diamond Tiara slapped the piece of paper away before slamming her desk, nearly frightening her assistant, Featherweight. "Gabby Gums didn't become the biggest thing in Ponyville with namby-pamby ponies like this!"

"But...I thought it was a good thing we've done." Carrie said, but was silenced by Diamond Tiara's glare as she said "Do you want me to get you kicked out of this club or not?"

Carrie let out a sigh before saying "I'm sorry..."

"Good! Now get out there and find a decent story to make Gabby Gums more famous than ever!" With that, the group left the newspaper room with heavy sighs. 

"Yeah, she's right. This column is a little softer than our usual gossip." Apple Bloom stated.

"Are you sure?" Carrie asked curiously. "I mean, I'm starting to feel a little bad on what we're doing."

"Carrie has a point." Sweetie Belle agreed. "Like...maybe we could be hurting other ponies' feelings?"

"Yeah, I didn't wanna say anything because everypony loves Gabby Gums so much, but...I was sorta hoping we could start writing more stories like this one." Apple Bloom nodded with a small yet worried smile.

"Me too." Scootaloo sighed.

"Me three." Carrie nodded. 

"But if we're gonna get our cutie-marks, we've got to give the ponies what they want." Sweetie Belle added, causing the young girls to sigh sadly before walking off. Back in the head of the news club office manager, Diamond Tiara was busy stacking some papers before Featherweight came into the office with an envelope.

"Alright Diamond Tiara, I got all these pictures just as you wanted." Featherweight said, handing the file to her.

"Excellent job Featherweight." Diamond Tiara smirked before looking over the envelope, seeing numerous pictures of the crusaders doing embarrassing things, and a peculiar photo of Jack...eating a hamburger over by the mall district. "Hmm...I wonder..."

She thought for a while before noticing the lights flashing over and over before noticing the entire room turned black, much to her confusion and shock.

"W-what the?! Featherweight, what's going on?!" Diamond Tiara demanded before noticing that he was nowhere in sight. "F-Featherweight?"

"Do not worry, we are in your mind." A voice spoken, much to Diamond Tiara's shock before noticing a dark figure walking towards her with a serious glint in his eyes through the mask. "I am here to make a proposition with you."

"W-what the? What the hay are you?!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed. "G-Get away from me, you freakshow!"

"Please calm down you spoiled brat." Void said, hiding his annoyance from his tone. 

"S-Spoiled brat?!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed in anger and shock.

"Now listen..." Void spoke up, showing him the picture of Jack eating the hamburger. "I must warn you about these humans...you need to warn the other ponies about these monstrosities. They're monsters...they're not the only one who eats vegetables, fruits, and whatever food you eat in this world, but they also eat meat."

"W-what?" Diamond Tiara asked in fear, her face turning pale. "W-what are you saying?"

"Trust me, they could be after you..." Void looked at her with his right eye glowing red as Diamond Tiara looked at him, looking nearly trance at his stare. "It's best to warn the others...you could end up being a hero."

"A hero..." Diamond Tiara muttered, which made Void nodded and patted her on the head. 

"Good little pony...I wish you adieu." Void bowed before disappearing in the darkness as everything turned back to normal with Diamond Tiara looking terrified.

"Umm...Miss Diamond Tiara? Are you alright?" Diamond Tiara blinked in confusion before looking over at Featherweight, who looked at her with a worried and concern look. "I've been calling you over and over again but you looked like you've seen a ghost."

"...Featherweight, please publish that photo of the big brute eating the burger to the papers under the name of 'Gabby Gums'." Diamond Tiara said, much to her assistant's surprise.

"W-what?"

"Just do it! NOW!" Diamond Tiara demanded, much to his surprise before nodding and immediately headed over to the production room with the photo in his mouth while Diamond Tiara looked down, her face a bit darkened with slightly widened eyes.

"A hero..."



Later
"Okay, just hold still Kodiak..." Just one more spot and it's finally complete. We spent all morning to noon time at the pool before drying off and began doing other activities, and this is one of them which I suggested. Painting, obviously. I was busy painting a portrait of Kodiak and I was nearly done. The others in the meantime were in the living room minding their own business. Kaede and Rarity talking about fashion while Mason stood next to them with his eyes closed in deep thought.

Jack, Applejack and Rainbow Dash were having an arm wrestling competition with either showing off their brute strength, Twilight and Jamie were taking notes with each other on facts between their two worlds, Fluttershy was near me watching me paint which I didn't mind while Rantaro and Nicole were busy minding their own business sitting down on the couches with bored looks, well I don't know about Nicole because she just has that neutral look on that face like she isn't showing any fear at all.

But I was almost done with Kodiak's portrait. Just need the final touch of it and...boo-yeah! "Done!"

"About time!" Kodi sighed in relief as he gotten out of his pose and walked over to the portrait, seeing it him with a bright smile with his tongue out as he looked at the sky upwards. "Ooh, I look good!"

The others, except Rantaro and Nicole, stopped what they were doing and came over to see my portrait, impressing them with my artwork while they felt amazed by its designs.

"You can say that again!" Kaede complimented. "You know Ren, your art skills are really improving."

"You think so?" I asked, rubbing the back of my head.

"It looks so peaceful." Fluttershy smiled before asking "So have you been selling any artwork lately?"

"Not much, but I know that one day that a bunch of ponies are gonna come in and admired by artwork." I assured with a grin.

"You sure have a lot of confidence there partner." Applejack smiled, admiring a bit of my confidence.

"Well I wouldn't say 'confidence', I would say 'optimistic'." I shrugged before hearing loud knocking on the door.

"Huh, now what?" Jack asked irritably as we walked over to the door, only to be met with an angry mob filled with almost everypony in town. 

"There they are!"

"You monsters!"

"How do you sleep at night?!"

"Oh goody...an angry mob." Rantaro muttered, forming an amused smirk. "Been wondering how long did these guys starting one?"

"Wait what?" I asked in confusion.

"What the hell?!" Jack exclaimed.

"U-uh...w-what's going on?" Jamie asked in confusion.

"Shut it freak show of a...freak!" One of the crowd shouted, terrifying Jamie a bit.

"Everypony settle down!" Twilight shouted. "What seems to be the problem?"

"How could you stay calm with those...those monsters!" A cyan colored earth pony shouted.

"What are you...talking about?" Applejack asked with a raised brow.

"Monsters?" Nicole questioned. "Why are you calling us 'monsters' exactly?"

"Indeed, what in Celestia's name are you talking about?" Rarity wondered the exact same thing.

"Are you kidding?!" A brown colored Pegasus wearing an apron threw a newspaper article right in front of my face. I managed to take it off and began reading it. "Why not you read it?"

"You mean the newspaper? But why?" Kaede wondered as I kept reading the headlines and once I was finished...my expression turned shock and pale upon reading it.

"W-what?" What in Equestria am I reading right now? Are you kidding me right now?!

"What?" Mason asked before he and the others read the headlines of the paper as it says the one thing we thought it was never going to happen ever as long as we remained here in their world.

"Humans lied! They don't eat like us but eat meat as well! Can they be trusted?"

"Oh my god..." Kaede muttered.

"N-no...!" Jamie gasped with a horror look on his face.

"Whoa...this...this looks bad." Jack commented.

"You think?" Rantaro asked irritably.

"W-what?" Applejack widened her eyes in shock as the rest of the girls, except Fluttershy and Twilight, looked at us with shocked looks. "T-this has to be some sort of joke, right?"

"Ren...everypony else?" Rarity covered her mouth in shock. "W-what did this newspaper...is this true?"

"Oh no..." Mason muttered, face-palming a bit.

"Heh heh, good one!" Pinkie laughed, earning weird looks from us and the crowd. "I mean, we can't be sure that Rennie and the others really eat meat. I mean, we're practically made out of meat and such, right? Right?"

"...Umm...well..." I rubbed the back of my neck with an awkward smile. 

"It's the truth..." Twilight sighed, earning shocked looks from her friends while the crowd began ranting on again.

"We trusted you all!"

"How could you?!"

"You monsters!"

"Muffins!" 

...Wait what? Who said that? Who even said that last part? It almost sounded like...

"I have a feeling that I'm suddenly not feeling so well..." Rarity fainted to the floor, but not before he was caught by Mason.

"Rarity!" Mason gasped, only to earn a shocked look from the crowd.

"Look! That guy was about to have that white Unicorn as a snack!" One of the crowd shouted, earning another outrage from them.

"Now now everypony! Calm down! Please calm down!" Twilight begged, but her pleas were ignored. Me and the others looked at the crowd with pale looks. I can't believe it...this newspaper suddenly convinces them all that we were bad all because of eating meat? I mean, sure back when I started adjusting to this place, Twilight warned me to never ever reveal that detail because something like this might happen. Well...so much for that...

"R-R-Ren?" I looked over to see Fluttershy scared look. 

"Fluttershy..." I muttered, looking at her with a concern look before hearing the crowd walking towards us with angry and outrage looks, causing us to back away as Twilight used her magic to slammed the door closed shut and managed to block it with the many furniture that were in the room. 

"Phew, I think that'll keep them shut." Twilight sighed in relief.

"Ohhhh..." We looked over to see Rarity slowly beginning to wake up before she looked around the room. "Where am I? Last thing I remember was that..."

"Rarity? Are you alright?" Mason asked in concern as Rarity gazed at him, seeing that he was holding onto her. 

"O-Oh! Mason!" Rarity widened her eyes in shock, but it wasn't because she was embarrassed just how closed he was to her, but because of what she and the other girls learned. "U-umm...this is quite awkward...right?"

"Y-yeah..." Mason nodded before setting her down on the couch.

"No way!" Rainbow shook her head with an upset look. "There is no way in Equestria that you guys are carnivores!"

"It's the truth, R-Rainbow Dash..." Jamie muttered sadly.

"I won't believe it! I'll prove it!" Rainbow flew over to the window and immediately opened it.

"Whoa whoa whoa, where the hell do you think you're going?!" Jack demanded.

"I'm heading over to town and find more of that newspapers that Gabby Gums made herself!" Rainbow replied, not gazing at him before she took off.

"I can't believe it..." Applejack gazed down on the ground before looking over at us and asked "Why didn't you say anything? Were you guys...hiding this from us?"

"I-it wasn't a choice! W-we just..." Oh boy...how am I gonna explain this?

"It wasn't Ren nor the other's fault!" Fluttershy stepped up with a serious look on her face. "Ren and the others are the kindest humans we've ever met...well the only humans we've met but we know that they wouldn't dare eating us! Ren and the others promised not to do that and began accepting our food! Have you not remember all the times we've been through again?!"

We all stared at her in shock, never seeing Fluttershy standing up for anypony, not even us. Normally it's me or one of us trying to defend her, but...wow!

"Fluttershy..." Rarity muttered.

Fluttershy suddenly widened her eyes with a blush before looking away, trying to brush her hair to hide herself before saying "O-oh! I-I didn't mean to make you guys so angry with me!"

"No we aren't! We're amazed!" Pinkie pointed out, bouncing in front of her before grabbing and shaking her. "I mean, we've never seen you like this before! Who are you and what have you done to the real Fluttershy? Are you an alien from another planet like Ren and his friends?"

"Wait what?" I asked incredulous.

"Whoa nelly." Applejack muttered, blinking in surprise. "Pinkie has a point. Since when did you ever start standing up for yourself...well more than usual?"

"W-well..." Fluttershy gazed at me with a soft smile and a small blush appeared on her face. "You may say that it was a little advice that Ren gave to me back then..."

"Really?" Rarity asked in surprise before turning to me with a nervous grin. "I suppose...that would make sense considering how nice he is to be considered your special somepony."

"H-hey!" I called out, feeling a bit embarrassed about that fact.

"Guys! This is no time for any talk!" Twilight scolded. "For right now, we just need to calm down and try to calm the crowd down as well."

"Yeah, but how?" Applejack asked.

"Yeah, I mean, they seemed pretty outrage." Kodi pointed out. "We're not sure if we can even calm them down now."

"Yeah..." I nodded, feeling a bit heartbroken that the town now is turning against us. After all what we've done for them for a while...

Suddenly, the window immediately blasted opened with a tons of newspaper made specifically by Gabby Gums appeared, with Rainbow Dash having to carry them out with an exhausted look on her face.

"S-so, how did it go?" Jamie asked in worried.

"I...I wasn't fast enough!" Rainbow exclaimed. "My life is officially over!"

"Wait what? What do you mean 'your life'? What about ours?!" Kaede exclaimed in shock. 

"Gabby Gums has made it to Cloudsdale!" Rainbow exclaimed, causing us all to widened our eyes in shock.

"What?!" Twilight hissed.

"It's true! Everywhere!" Rainbow yelled out. "It was all spread out all over town and now it's over! I mean, she didn't only do it to Ren, Jack, Rantaro, Mason, Jamie, Kaede, and Nicole either!"

"What do you mean?" Nicole asked, feeling a bit surprised by this. Applejack walked over and picked up one of the newspaper and read "'Rainbow Dash: Speed Demon or Super Softie?'?!"

"I grabbed as many copies as I could, but it was too late!" Rainbow cried out, banging her hoof on the ground. "I'm a laughing stock!"

"Calm down Dashy." Jack patted her on the back, cheering her a bit. Rantaro picked one of the newspaper up before letting out a chuckle, and then started laughing.

"AH HA HA HA! Get a load of this!" Rantaro laughed before showing us an image about Applejack snoozing over by a nearby apple tree. "Applejack Asleep on the Job!"

"Wait what?!" Applejack gasped before grabbing it and began reading before slowly taking her eyes off of it with widened eyes, "I can't believe this! That Gabby Gums wrote a lie about that!"

"And this one..." Kaede picked another one up before showing us an image of Big Mac holding a familiar doll that I soon recognized as Mr. Smarty Pants from many months ago. "Big Macintosh - What's He Hiding?"

"It would seem that this Gabby Gums must've wrote many bad lies about you guys while practically toying with us with our little secret." Nicole deduced. "Just how far is she gonna go?"

"Ha ha! Look at this one!" Spike showed us another newspaper article written by Gabby Gums herself, showing us Twilight reading a book that made it look like she was snobby looking. "Twilight Sparkle: I was a Canterlot Snob?!"

"Are you serious?!" Twilight gaped at that before making an irritated look on her face and swiping the newspaper from Spike's hands and began reading the article. "A well-placed scaly source close to the prissy pony says Twilight Sparkle thinks Ponyville is nothing but muddy roads and low-class rubes." 

She immediately turned towards Spike an upset look and yelled "Spike!"

"Well I didn't!" Spike shook his head with a panic look. "Gabby Gums made that up!" He picked another piece of newspaper article that showed the same one Twilight was holding. "I never said anything like that!"

"Everypony, please." Rarity announced with a calm look. "She's just a harmless schoolpony engaged in a little idle gossip. You're really making too big a deal out of this."

"B-but it's all lies!" Jamie pointed out. "She's writing any lies about us and what's worse is that she somehow discovered about our secret about eating meat!"

"Yeah! She's just humiliating us all!" Kodi agreed before grabbing another piece of article with his mouth before handing it to me as I read it over before gawking at the front cover of Fluttershy having a weird looking tail with arrows on the bacl. 

"What the heck is this?" I gaped before reading the title. "Fluttershy has tail extensions!"

We all froze before slowly gazing at the yellow pegasus, who glanced towards us before slowly hiding behind the kitchen counter.

"...What kind of drugs has this chick has been going on?" Jack asked bluntly.

"Jack!" Kaede scolded.

Jack raised his arms in the air in surrender before saying "What? I was just asking!"

"And look at this one!" Twilight picked up another article from the pile with her magic as it showed Pinkie Pie dancing around in a punch bowl. "Pinkie Pie is an out-of-control party animal!"

"What?!" Pinkie cried out before grabbing the newspaper and reading over it. Just as she finished reading it, her eyes were bawling out of tears as she cried out out "It's true! I do have a problem!"

"B-but...w-we don't mind that..." Jamie muttered, feeling scared and terrified right now. "I-I just don't get it...why? Why is this Gabby Gums doing this to us?!"

"That's what I wanna know!" Jack demanded. "I don't care who it is! I'll beat the hell out of them!"

Well I'm pretty mad at them for what they've done but...why do I have this strange feeling that something doesn't add up here? 

"Ha ha ha ha..." Huh? Why is Rarity laughing of all times? "Honestly, you ponies have no sense of humor." Rarity rolled her eyes.

"How can you be so calm about this?! Our lives are practically ruined thanks to that journalist!" Kaede exclaimed angrily.

"Calm down Kaede darling." Rarity picked up a random newspaper from the pile Rainbow Dash picked up and began reading it over. "So she tweaks a few ponies every now and then, maybe they...AH!" 

"What? What's wrong?" Kodi asked in concern before we all saw the angry look on her face. "I'll destroy her!" 

"Rarity! What happened?" Mason asked in worried before the paper was shoved into his face by Rarity as he began reading it over. "The Drama-Queen Diaries"?

"She's reprinted my secret diary! How could Gabby Gums possibly get access to my private diary?!"

"I don't know..." Mason wondered before widening his eyes in shock. "Oh no!"

"What? What is it?" Kaede asked in worried.

"Carrie! I think she's in trouble!" Mason exclaimed. 

"In trouble?" I asked in confusion.

"He means that due to the many ponies in Ponyville knowing about our diet, I have a feeling that they might go after anyone who's human." Nicole pointed out.

"Hmm...that is quite troublesome." Rantaro shrugged before turning to Mason. "Well, what are you waiting for? You gonna let her die?"

Mason gritted his teeth and darkened his face. "You be quiet!"

"Mason, allow me to tag along!" We all looked at Rarity with surprised looks. "Please! I need to find out who is Gabby Gums is..." She made a dark and angry scowl before exclaiming "So I'll make sure that she's gonna pay for revealing my secrets!"

"Whoa...that loon really went nuts." Jack whispered to Jamie nearby, which he gulped and nodded in agreement.

"But do we even know who Gabby Gums is?" Rantaro questioned, earning anothe scowl from Rarity.

"Of course she is! She's one of the schoolponies back at the school!" Rarity exclaimed.

"Then why not ask your sister and her friends about her? Maybe she knows her identity?" Rantaro smirked, which made Nicole raised a brow at him.

"Good heavens no!" Rarity scoffed. "My sister, Mason's sister, and their friends would never associate with anyone as beastly as Gabby Gums!"

"Rarity has a point." Mason nodded, crossing his arms with a stern look. "Carrie would never do anything horrible like that. She would never post these embarrassing secrets and photos about us."

"Yeah! I mean, they're just kids!" I added. "I mean, even if it was possible, which I don't believe, I don't think they would do this on purpose."

"Ren might have a point there." Twilight nodded. "I mean, I'm sure there's a rational explanation about all this."

"Y-yeah...if we just remained calm..."

"Remain calm? REMAIN CALM?!" Jack yelled out, making Jamie flinch in fear. "Our lives are ruined! Everypony in town, practically in this damn world knows more about our species! It's over! We're done!"

"We just need to calm down Jack!" Kaede begged. "I-I'm sure once we find out who Gabby Gums is, we might be able to make her apologize to everypony and have her convince to apologize to us all! That's all!"

"Grr!" Jack growled at her before taking a deep breath, softening his expression. "Alright fine..."

"Good..." Kaede sighed in relief.

"Anyway, we shall be going." Mason nodded before grabbing Rarity by the arms, much to her surprise.

"O-oh Mason!" Rarity giggled, hiding away her blush. "You know, you sure are quite amazing, aren't you? O-of course I would never think of you as a monster."

Mason softly smiled at her and nodded, happy to hear that Rarity doesn't have any fear in him anymore. "You can thank me later. For now, let's go find our siblings and the rest of their friends."

"Okay." Rarity nodded before the two climb out of the window.

"Just be careful you two. The crowd might be still out there." Nicole warned them.

"Don't worry, we will." Mason nodded before climbing out of the window with Rarity by his side. 

"I sure hope those two will be alright." Kaede sighed.

"Me too..." I nodded before noticing that Fluttershy wasn't around here. "Hey, where did Flutters go?"

"Last time I saw her, she was around and hiding behind the kitchen counter." Kodi reminded me.

"Well don't worry, I'm sure that she's still around here." Twilight assured before pointing to the blocked door. "After all, I did blocked the door with almost every furniture to make sure the crowd doesn't come after us inside."

"Yeah..." I nodded.

"So how in Equestria could you guys eat meat?" Applejack asked. 

"W-well..." Jamie twiddled with his fingers with a nervous look before he began loudly muttering again. "Y-you may say that's the only thing we eat, but that is not true. There are certain set of animals that we can't eat in order to protect and preserve their species. We eat only animals that are limited to us for years and years to come."

"Really? Well that's nice to hear Jamie!" Pinkie grinned, hugging him tight as he widened his eyes in shock. 

"W-wait! Did I say that aloud again?!" Jamie widened his eyes in shock.

"Settle down, if they want to know they have to know in order to trust us." Rantaro shrugged. 

"Well that's nice to hear that you guys don't eat every single kind of animal." Twilight sighed. "I bet that's a relief to Fluttershy."

"Yeah..." I nodded before looking over at my room door, forming a worried look. "I'm gonna go off to find Fluttershy. I'm worried about her."

"I'll help too." Kodi offered, which I nodded with a grin. Kodi began using his nose and started sniffing around the ground a lot before I began following his tracks as we arrived to our room while the others stayed behind and discussed more about the topic on hand.

"Please allow me to give out an explanation..." Nicole offered, adjusting her glasses.

"If they even believe us." Rantaro shrugged.

As soon as we entered my room, I began to hear some whimpering. Oh man....I bet that she's crying because of what happened. I walked over to the other side of my bed, finding a tearful Fluttershy around the left side of my bed, covering her face with her forelegs and kept crying.

"Fluttershy." I called with a worried look. "Are you alright?" 

Fluttershy looked up, having a tear-stained look on her face.

"Oh hi Ren...hi Kodiak...I-I didn't see you there..." Fluttershy wiped away her tears with a sad look. "S-sorry if I'm causing any trouble for you."

"It's alright. You didn't mean too." I assured with a soft grin. "But you don't have to keep crying. I don't think that's embarrassing..." Actually, come to think of it? Now that I'm realizing it...why is having extended tails that bad? "But why is it so weird that you didn't want it to be reveal?"

"I..." Fluttershy's face turned bright red in embarrassment. "It's too embarrassing for anypony to know!"

"So why do it in the first place if you knew it was gonna be embarrassing?" Kodi wondered.

"Because I was just curious to see if extended tails were quite amazing!" Fluttershy cried out. "But now that everypony in town knows about it, I'm a laughing stock!"

"Don't say that Fluttershy." I said with a soft smile before sitting down next to her with Kodiak laying on my laps. "I understand that you must feel sad but you have us and we would never laugh at you like that. I mean, many of us has embarrassing secrets and were mocked as well."

"I-I suppose so..." Fluttershy cried out, wiping away her tears before leaning against me. "But what about you and the others? Aren't you just angry yet upset about it?!"

"I am." I nodded. "But I know that these guys are just scared of us and I know that we can encouraged them to be friends with us."

Fluttershy let out a smile before snuggling against my sweater, much to my embarrassment. Kodi smiled at us before licking Fluttershy on the cheek, which made her finally smile. 

"Better?" I asked.

"Better." Fluttershy nodded.

Phew, glad that I was able to help her out of her misery. Still though, I get Rarity considering that her secrets that she wrote in her diary is one thing to be embarrassed, but this Gabby Gums is for some reason is going too far. I may not have read much about her but all I got was that she was a schoolpony and was posting everypony's secrets. Just why is she doing this? Out of pleasure? No, that wouldn't be it...

BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!

"What the heck?!" Kodi exclaimed as the three of us looked at each other before getting up from the floor and headed out of my room as we saw the front door banging over and over.

The others looked panicked upon seeing this.

"O-oh no! W-we're gonna die!" Jamie gasped, bending down with a scared look. 

"Calm down, we'll be fine." Rantaro waved it off.

"Yeah! I mean, it's not like things can get worse." Pinkie agreed with her signature smile. Suddenly, more banging came running out of the door, much to our shock. 

"Open the door!"

"Get out here now!"

"Come out so you can fight us like a man!"

"Oh golly..." Applejack muttered.

"Everypony! Secure the door!" Twilight yelled, which we nodded in agreement before running over to the blocked door and attempted to hold it back. "Make sure that they don't run in here!"

"What do you think?!" Rantaro asked angrily.

"Everyone, you all need to calm down." Nicole assured, looking at us with a calm look.

"Easy for you to say!" Rainbow growled, holding back the door.

"Do you think that we can make sure that they won't get in?!" Kaede asked in fear. "I-I don't think we can hold much longer!"

"Well just shaddup and keep pushing back!" Jack exclaimed. "Dammit! Where the hell is Mason, Rarity and the others?!"

"If we all just remained calm at the moment, we might even discover Gabby Gum's identity." Nicole assured.

"What?! You figured it out?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"But how?!" Kodi added.

"I'll explain till everypony arrives." Nicole stated, furrowing her brows with a serious look.

"Hmm...well this should be interesting." Rantaro chuckled with a grin.

Oh man, I'm not sure how did Nicole find out about the identity of Gabby Gums, but...oh god! I just hope we'll be able to make sure that the crowd won't be breaking down this door for now!



Later
“How could you Diamond Tiara?!” Apple Bloom demanded, narrowing her eyes in anger at her. The Crusaders and Carrie just came back to the editor-in-chief’s office to confront Diamond Tiara upon discovering an article that was made by Gabby Gums herself, but that wasn’t true at all considering that Gabby Gums were those four girls all along! Diamond Tiara was practically stealing their name and taking credit of her own work.

“Why? What’s the matter?” Diamond Tiara asked in a mocking tone. “Too shocked that I sold a story or two to all of Equestria about what these humans really are?”

“Why did you do that, Diamond Tiara?!” Carrie demanded. “You made me, my big brother, and the others look like we’re the bad guys!”

“Duh, that’s cause you are!” Diamond Tiara sneered at her. “You don’t think I won’t find out about you little cretin? Serves you right for what you humans did to make me humiliate myself!”

“No please!” Carrie pleaded. “It’s me you want but don’t take it on my friends! Please!”

“Yeah! I mean, a human eating meat? That’s obviously a lie!” Scootaloo exclaimed before turning to Carrie and asked “Right Carrie?”

Carrie lowered her head down a bit with a sad look, letting out a tear and said “No…it’s the truth. I’m sorry…”

The Crusaders gasped in shock upon hearing this from her while Diamond Tiara laughed mockingly at her.

“Yes, that’s right! Go on! Mock her! Laugh at her! Teach her that humans can’t be trusted!” Diamond Tiara laughed. The Crusaders looked at each other with worried and concern before narrowing their eyes and glared at Diamond Tiara.

“Yeah right! Like we’ll laugh at our friend!” Scootaloo exclaimed, much to Diamond Tiara’s confusion.

“What?” 

“You heard her!” Sweetie Belle stepped forward with a serious look. “Carrie is the best friend we ever had before! She may be like a princess, but at least she’s caring and lovable unlike you!”

“What?!” Diamond Tiara hissed angrily, nearly frightening Featherweight.

“You heard her!” Apple Bloom glared angrily at Diamond Tiara. “I want to thank Ren for helping me overcome my dilemma with being a blank-flank because if it wasn’t for them…” She turned to her friends with a soft and warm smile. “I wouldn’t have met these girls ever in my life.”

“Apple Bloom…” Carrie looked at her with amazement before smiling over her friend. “Thank you!”

“What are you saying?! Are you just gonna be friends with a freakshow like her?!” Diamond Tiara exclaimed angrily. “This is just messed-up!”

“Why is it a problem to you anyway?” Sweetie Belle questioned with a raised brow. “You never had any problems with her being a human before. Normally, you just teased her because she friends with blank-flanks like us.”

Diamond Tiara sneered at the Crusaders before scoffing “Why does it matter anyway? You girls are just too boring to bathe in my glory anyway.”

Carrie glared at Diamond Tiara and said “Well why not bathe into your own glory? We quit!”

Diamond Tiara snapped her eyes opened with a shocked look. “No! I won’t let you quit!”

“But the gossip we’ve been printing is hurting everypony’s feelings!” Sweetie Belle retorted. “And what’s worse is that you’ve posted a really hurtful comment that’s making everypony in Ponyville have a deep grudge on Ren and his friends.”

“Feelings?!” Diamond Tiara scoffed. “I don’t care about feelings! Gabby Gums is my bread and butter, and I’m not gonna let you goody-two-horseshoes and some freakish naked ape of a freak take that away from me. Besides, why should you care? You girls been posting mean comments about your own friends on the school news.”

“We know, but we learn that it’s not right.” Apple Bloom shook her head. 

“We’re sorry Diamond Tiara, but we’ve made our decision.” Carrie said with a serious look.

“I won’t be doing this anymore longer. Who cares about earning some journalists cutie-marks?” Sweetie Belle nodded. “I rather care more about our friends, their feelings, and the other ponies that we wrote about it.”

“Yeah, you can’t force us to keep gossiping.” Scootaloo smirked, but that was soon dropped upon seeing the evil smile on Diamond Tiara.

“When you see these…” She threw a folder filled with many pictures of the Crusaders, much to their shock upon seeing embarrassing photos. One was Apple Bloom of her as a little baby having applesauce all over her body. The next one had Sweetie Belle with a case of a bad hair day, and another had Scootaloo snuggling against a stuffed teddy bear. “You may not want to quit after all.”

“W-what?” Apple Bloom muttered.

“I told Featherweight to document everything…” Diamond Tiara evilly smirked. “And that’s exactly what he did!”

“But wait, there’s nothing of me.” Carrie pointed out. “Which means I can tell on you for what you did.”

“Go ahead, and I’ll post these on the school newspaper.” Diamond Tiara smirked. “Besides, it’s property of the Foal Free Press. And if Gabby Gums really does go into retirement, I’ll need something to fill that empty column space…Actually, I can post them and just take the title of Gabby Gums anyway.”

“You don’t scare me Diamond Tiara.” Carrie stated.

“Sure, go on ahead. Tell on your big brother and you’ll end up being the cause of humiliating your friends.” Diamond Tiara smirked. Carrie widened her eyes in shock before looking over at her friends, seeing the pleading looks on their faces. Carrie didn’t want to humiliate her friends so she looked down with a sad look. 

“O-okay…I’ll be quiet.” Carrie muttered.

“What was that? I don’t think I heard that.” Diamond Tiara asked mockingly, wanting to hear it louder.

“I said that I’ll be quiet.” Carrie sighed.

“Good answer.” Diamond Tiara evilly smirked as Carrie glared at her. “See what happens when you mess with me?”

Carrie blinked in surprise upon seeing a shadowy figure next to her as a dark aura surrounded Diamond Tiara. 

“W-what?” Carrie wondered.

“Now excuse me…I must go.” Diamond Tiara stepped out of her chair and began leaving her office.

“H-hey wait! Where do you think you’re going?!” Scootaloo demanded.

“None of your beeswax!” Diamond Tiara scoffed. “Now get out there and bring me more Gabby Gums!”

With that, she opened the door and slammed it shut which nearly made them flinch while Featherweight simply side-stepped away from them.

“I don’t get it…” Apple Bloom turned to Carrie and asked “Why did you agree on her offer?”

“Because…I didn’t want to get you girls humiliated because of me.” Carrie explained sadly. “I’m sorry…it was so stupid of me to do that.”

“No…that was a nice thing you done for us.” Sweetie Belle smiled. “Well…other than the other things you kinda done for us.”

“Yeah, but now what? We’re being blackmailed!” Scootaloo exclaimed, reminding them of their current situation. “First we began unintentionally hurting ponies’ feelings across town, next Diamond Tiara posts a newspaper article about humans eating meat that quickly makes the town go so crazy at them and not in the good way, and now we’re being forced to continue hurting more ponies’ feelings by our work. What are we gonna do?!”

“Well even if we did told them, I doubt that they would ever forgive us for what we’ve done.” Sweetie Belle sighed sadly.

Suddenly, they heard the door immediately opened, revealing two older siblings that Carrie and Sweetie Belle recognized!

“Carrie!”

“Sweetie Belle!”

“Big brother!”

“Rarity!”

“Mason?”

“Rarity?”

“What are you two doing here?” Carrie asked curiously.

“We’re here to rescue you all!” Rarity said before hugging Sweetie Belle tightly. “I was sure enough that the angry crowd might’ve gotten you all hurt or worse!”

“What’s important is that you’re all safe.” Mason smiled before hugging his sister tightly as well before looking over her with a soft smile. “Are you alright?”

“Y-yeah…I’m alright big brother.” Carrie nodded, much to Mason’s relief.

“Okay, now let’s get back to the others.” Mason said, taking Carrie’s hand.

“I agree. Let us go.” Rarity nodded.

“Wait what? But why?” Scootaloo asked, oblivious to know about this.

“You don’t know?” Mason asked incredulously. “Everypony in Ponyville are practically storming towards the home-ship as an angry mob! Until the crowd calms down, I don’t think we’re ever gonna show our faces in Ponyville ever again…”

“No…” Carrie muttered.

“That can’t be! This wasn’t supposed to happen!” Sweetie Belle cried out, confusing Mason and Rarity.

“What in Equestria are you talking about Sweetie Belle?” Rarity questioned her sister with a suspicious gaze. 

Sweetie Belle widened her eyes and began sweating nervously. “U-uhh…n-no! No! Of course not my dear sweet sister! Now come on! Let’s get going!”

“Sweetie Belle….what exactly are you and your friends hiding?” Rarity raised a brow.

“N-nothing! I told you my dear sweet sister that everything’s alright between us, right girls?” Sweetie Belle chuckled nervously, glancing towards her friends. “RIGHT, girls?”

“O-oh yeah!” Apple Bloom nodded as she and the others began chuckling nervously, furthering their suspicions on both Mason and Rarity as the two looked at each other with blank looks.

“Carrie, tell me what exactly is that you’re hiding, now.” Mason said sternly.

“O-of course not big brother!” Carrie stepped back a bit before grabbing her bag and attempted to try and act innocent but not before she tripped over and the contents of her bag fell out of it, including a book that Rarity was all too familiar with.

“M-my…diary?” Rarity widened her eyes before glaring over at the girls, including Mason. “So this whole time…Gabby Gums were you girls all along?!”

“I-I’m sorry Rarity!” Sweetie Belle pleaded.

“How could you girls do this to us?!” Mason demanded. “Carrie, you should know better about posting things that ponies find offended and now the whole town hates us.”

“Mason…allow me.” Rarity assured with a calm look. She turned to the girls with a scolding look that could’ve traumatized anyone who dare makes contact with it. “How could you girls do this to us?! Sweetie Bell, Carrie, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, you girls know better about posting things that ponies find offended and now the whole town is trying to get rid of Mason and the others! Is that what you wanted?!”

“No…” Carrie and the girls shook their heads sadly. 

“We didn’t mean for this to happen…we wanted to stop this but we were forced to keep going…” Carrie explained sadly.

“What? What do you mean?” Mason asked, softening his expression. “Carrie…did something happened that made you and your friends write more of those hurtful comments on the school newspaper?”

“Y-yeah…but we can’t tell you.” Carrie shook her head, much to the older siblings’ confusion.

“…Something did happened, did it?” Rarity guessed, which the girls nodded. “Well…while I do not appreciate for what you girls done, we shall talk about this later. Right now, we need to head back and make sure the others aren’t hurt by the crowd.”

“Agreed.” Mason nodded before walking over and bending down to his sister’s height. “Carrie…I know that you wouldn’t do this and I’m not mad at you, just disappointed on you.”

“I’m sorry.” Carrie apologized, sniffing miserably. Mason gave Carrie a little hug to cheer her up while Rarity and the rest of the girls smiled over them.

Rarity soon turned to her sister and her friends and said “And I’m sorry for scolding you like that earlier. Maybe I should’ve gone a tad bit easier on you.”

“It’s okay Rarity, we deserved that.” Sweetie Belle nodded.

“And you know what? Who cares if we get embarrassed?” Apple Bloom asked herself with a smirk. “Come on! Let’s go!”

“Huh? To where?” Scootaloo asked.

“Back to the home-ship, of course…” Apple Bloom answered, which Carrie and the others caught on. “But first, I think it’s mighty time for everypony to know who Gabby Gums is.”

Carrie, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo smiled over at their friend and nodded, while Mason and Rarity looked over at their sisters and friends ready and taking responsibility on their actions. 

“You don’t suppose I went too far with them, right Mason darling?” Rarity questioned, which Mason shook his head.

“Well no, but seeing them here means that Carrie and the others are growing up.” Mason smiled.

“Yes…I suppose so…” Rarity nodded. 

“Okay, but how are we gonna do that?” Scootaloo asked.

“I think I know where Apple Bloom is going with this…” Carrie formed a smile. “And I like it.”

Later

“Oh goddammit!” 

Oh man, this is so not good! Apparently that the angry mob been getting stronger with all the banging onto the door. 

“Seriously, what are they using to keep ramming the door? A log?!” Kaede exclaimed. As we continue to hold back the door, the door immediately flew opened, causing all of us and the stuff that was blocking the door to blast off and into the ground where thousands of ponies walked into the room with angry and outrage expressions.

“Stop it everypony! Calm down!” Twilight begged.

“How could you join and take their side?!” One of the ponies from the crowd exclaimed angrily.

“Because we trust them!” Applejack retorted. 

“They’ve done nothing wrong! So what if they eat something that you guys don’t bother to eat!” Rainbow added, only to be furthering the crowd’s anger.

“Oh no! We’re doomed!” Pinkie yelled.

“Serves them right!” Huh? We looked over to see Diamond Tiara walking over with a satisfied smirk on her face. “It shows you that these new species that appeared out of the blue, which are called humans, cannot be trusted.”

“What? Diamond Tiara?” Jamie asked in surprise. “W-what are you doing here?”
“I’m actually to cover the story to find out whether or not that humans are to be trusted.” Diamond Tiara answered bluntly.

“Wait…” Jack gritted his teeth in anger. “Are you telling us that…?”

“Oh no, that was Gabby Gums herself.” Diamond Tiara chuckled. “But I guess it’s no point anymore.”

“What…do you mean?” Nicole asked, raising a brow of suspicion over at her.

“It doesn’t matter because we can’t simply trust you lot anymore.” Diamond Tiara scoffed. “And those siding with these humans can’t seem to be trusted anymore it would seem.”

“D-Diamond Tiara, how could you say that?” Twilight gawked at that.

“And since when did she even care about species?” Spike whispered to Rantaro, who only shrugged as he kept his gaze at Diamond Tiara.

“W-why are you doing this?” Kaede demanded. “We haven’t been eating any meat at all in this world! We swear! We don’t anymore since getting here!”

“Shut up!” One of the ponies shouted as they slowly began walking towards us with angry looks, almost having the intent of killing us. Kodi stepped forward and growled and barked at them while Fluttershy held onto me in fear as I looked at them with a worried and scared look. Oh man, this is not how I want to die right here! I haven’t solved all the mysteries of this world and how do we even get back!…Is this the end?

“Stop! Stop it!” Huh? Mason? Rarity? Girls?! We saw them making their way through the crowd carrying a bunch of newspapers in their hands and hooves. “There’s something you all need to read!” Apple Bloom pleaded.

“It’s made specifically by us!” Carrie added with a soft grin. “It’s…something that we want to say and tell you all that we’re sorry.”

“….Huh?” We all asked with blank looks.

“What they’re saying is that they’re-”

“Gabby Gums.” Nicole answered, cutting Mason off. “Gabby Gums wasn’t just one journalist. It consisted of these three girls, and your little sister, am I right Mason?”

“Y-yes…” Mason nodded.

“So wait…it was you four all along?!” Rainbow exclaimed in shock.

“The hell?!” Jack exclaimed, also shocked by this. Everypony in the crowd murmured among themselves in shock, confusion, and surprise. 

“What do you think you’re doing?!” Diamond Tiara hissed. “If you tell them anymore, then I’ll post all those embarrassing photos of you idiots to the whole public to read and see!” 

“Oh? Do you mean this file?” Rantaro held a file in his hands with an amused smirk on his face, which Diamond Tiara widened her eyes in shock.

“What?! But how?!” Gizmo climbed onto Rantaro’s shoulder as the two fist-bumped each other with smirks on their faces.

“You should really keep a close eye on your stuff. But out of my gratitude, I’ll keep a close eye on this.” Rantaro snickered, much to Diamond Tiara’s anger as she tried to swipe it away from him.

“Give it back you idiot!” She jumped over and over to reach the file, but Rantaro refused to. 

“Yeah…no.” Rantaro replied bluntly. Diamond Tiara growled angrily before kicking him in the leg, which didn’t faze him at all. “You know that I’m still alright, right?”

“Grrr!” Diamond Tiara’s left eye twitched in anger.

“Thanks Rantaro.” Carrie thanked with a smile. Rantaro bowed with a mocking smile and replied “Whatever you say, your majesty.”

“Don’t push it.” Mason said sternly.

“So what does those newspaper say anyway?” Kaede asked in confusion.

“Well…” Apple Bloom and the other girls looked at each other with worried and concern before looking back at all of us. “Before you all get angry and scold us all for what we’ve done, we just want you all to read this over and say what you all think.”

“Here, we have them right here.” Mason said, handing one for each pony and even us to have. Kodi, Fluttershy, and I looked over at the new newspaper that Mason handed us as I began reading aloud.

“To the Citizens of Ponyville, For some time now, you’ve been reading this column to get the latest dirt and the hottest buzz. But this will be my final piece. We want to apologize for the pain and embarrassment we’ve caused. You see, I’m actually three little fillies and one human girl, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Carrie Hunter. As the popularity of our column grew, we got swept up in the hype. We knew that what we were doing didn’t feel quite right, but we ignored the guilt because everypony seemed to want to read what we were writing. From now on, we promise to respect everypony else’s privacy, and we won’t engage in hurtful gossip anymore. All we can do is ask for your forgiveness, Ponyville.

Signing off for the very last time,

XOXO, Gabby Gums."


…Wow, this is so beautiful. Me, Fluttershy, and Kodiak looked at each other with awe and shock before smiling over at the three Crusaders and Carrie and everypony else seemed to be finish reading it as they stared at the little girls who wrote this.

“They meant it in every word.” Rarity smiled, hugging her sister a bit.

“And didn’t mean to write all those hurtful comments to you all.” Mason added, ruffling his sister’s hair which made her laugh. Apple Bloom looked over at her sister, who sported a stern look on her face.

“You’re…still mad at me?” Apple Bloom asked in concern.

“Well while I don’t appreciate writing lies about me nor your brother…” Applejack pulled her over for a hug, along with Big Macintosh, who smiled over at his little sister. “But I’ll forgive ya Apple Bloom.”

“Eeyup!” Big Mac nodded in agreement. 

“Rainbow Dash! I am so sorry for writing all those mean comments about you and send it up all the way to Cloudsdale!” Scootaloo apologized, seeing Rainbow Dash’s angry look. Rainbow Dash looked at her for a while before smiling and hugging Scootaloo.

“Are you kidding? After reading that whole thing, there’s no way I could stay mad at you like that!” Rainbow laughed, much to Scootaloo’s joy. Everypony seemed to nodded in agreement while the rest of us felt heart-warmed by this scene.

“You know…that went better than any of us expected.” Jamie stated, blinking in surprise.

“You can say that again.” Kaede sighed in relief, which I nodded in agreement. You can say that again, Kay. But you know, I still can’t believe that it was Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Carrie that would do all that gossiping. But at least they finally learned their lessons….

“This isn’t fair!” And of course the moment had to be ruined. We all gazed at Diamond Tiara as she began panting heavily and her eyes…it looked nearly blank like they devoid any emotion at all. “This isn’t fair…what about the humans? There’s no way you all can forgive them, especially for eating our flesh and meat.”

I turned to Diamond Tiara with a serious look, but before I could say anything, someone else beat me to it.

“You’re wrong Diamond Tiara! Ren and the others don’t eat our kind!” We all gazed at Fluttershy, who surprisingly had a serious and scolded look on her face like she was angry or something. 

“Sure that they eat, but they told me that there are many other animals that they protect and don’t try to eat them in order to protect and preserve their species! That’s what I do as an animal caretaker along with other ponies and creatures out there protecting and preserving animals to save from extinction! Think about the good times and how many times they saved us from Cerberus and the other bad things that occurred in Ponyville! They showed kindness, generosity, been honest with us, and showed their loyalty, and you’re all just gonna call them ‘monsters’ even though you all don’t show any concern or even care how they feel right now?!”

Oh my frigging god…I never thought I would hear it from her of all ponies. Fluttershy panted heavily before widening her eyes with a small tainted pink blush on her cheeks before flying over and hid behind me in a flash.

“W-well…if it’s alright with you all.” Fluttershy muttered.

“Whoa, never thought that she would even say all that.” Jack muttered.

“It would seem that she’s starting to overcome her nervousness.” Nicole stated, looking over her iPad. “Besides, what she spoken is quite encouraging I would say. But that’s not the only thing that you all should be angry at, you all should be suspecting Diamond Tiara.”

“What? Me?!” Diamond Tiara exclaimed.

“I figured that you had something to do this.” Nicole said with a stern look on her face. “Apparently I can tell considering the newspaper.”

“The…newspaper?” I asked in confusion.

Nicole nodded before picking up the article of Jack eating a burger along with the paper of Fluttershy and her tail extensions, much to her embarrassment. 

"You see these two articles? They look different due to their wording." Nicole explained. "Gabby Gums consisted of these little girls and been unintentionally hurting you ponies' feelings, but the one about Jack wouldn't be something they wrote because Carrie is a human and she would know better than to reveal something so hurtful to cause all this."

"Exactly." Rantaro smirked. "I had a feeling that something was weird considering that Carrie is very trustworthy and would never dare try to ruin a secret, so she couldn't written it...right Diamond Tiara?"

"Y-you think I did this?" Diamond Tiara narrowed her eyes. "It could've been those idiots before! They could've easily taken a picture while you guys were distracted!"

"No, I saw them." Rantaro answered, much to Diamond Tiara's confusion. "I saw them go into the elevator while I was busy looking around the place to mind my own business and I just happened to see them go through the central elevator out of the mall district, so technically speaking, they do have an alibi."

"Ah!" Diamond Tiara gritted her teeth in anger.

"And other than that, you seemed to be the most obvious choice considering that you have this file, right?" Rantaro smirked. "And when I saw the girls having those relieved looks, I knew there was something that they didn't want to be revealed."

"And if I had to guess, I say that this file contains something forces them to either do all those rude comments and not wanting them to quit, correct Ms. Diamond Tiara?" Nicole asked, seeing the upset look on her face. "I could tell that from your outrage look that you're admitting this is all your fault, right? Also, you may have fooled everyone but I'm afraid that isn't possible for neither me or Rantaro due to the two different newspaper articles."

"You both could tell by all that?!" Kaede exclaimed in shock.

"Ooh! I knew that she was psychic!" Pinkie smiled brightly.

"I-I have heard that her psychology and observational skills were quite advanced, but I never i-imagined it was this advanced." Jamie muttered loudly, having a surprised look on his face.

"Y-you're wrong...I'm not the bad guy here." Diamond Tiara hissed as something began emanating out of her. I widened my eyes a bit to see a dark aura surrounding her. "I...I can't afford to do this anymore. All of you are...idiots...I...I knew the soul inside of me to let go..."

"What?" I asked in confusion.

"I...I don't deserved this. I have no life!" With that, Diamond Tiara began running away until Jack grabbed her by the tail, holding her steady. "No! Let go of me! I don't deserved to live! We're all gonna die! Let me die!"

"Calm the hell down for crying out loud!" Jack yelled.

"Wait, just still!" I said with a concern look as I tried to touch her, but she swatted my hand away in panic as her face showed extreme paranoia.

"Don't touch me! Let me go!" Diamond Tiara screamed while everypony else looked at shock and confusion at her. "I don't get why you idiots can't see that these humans are monsters even when I tried framing them and making you all hate them!"

"Ahh...did I hear a confession?" Rantaro smirked.

"So she did do it then." Twilight said with a stern look.

"Y-yeah...b-but why is she acting like this?" Jamie wondered. Nicole examined Diamond Tiara for a moment before widening her eyes in pure shock.

"Huh? Is there something wrong, Nicole darling?" Rarity asked in concern.

"....I'm not sure." Nicole replied, returning to her usually solemn look.

"Not...sure?" Mason asked with a raised brow.

"Her emotions are at the point of her wanting to..." Nicole stopped herself, not eager to finish that sentence which made everypony intense.

"Well what?!" Rainbow exclaimed impatiently.

"I am sorry...but just drop it for now." NIcole replied, much to our disappointment. "Right now, we need to calm her out of her paranoia. She's fully unstable."

"Okay." I nodded as I tried walking over to Diamond Tiara as she struggled around with Jack holding onto her.

"Please! Let me live! I don't deserve living in a world with these freaks!" 

"Calm down already brat!" Jack exclaimed.

"Y-yeah, calm down." I assured before tripping over something as I fell to the floor but not before my hand made contact to Diamond Tiara's head and a bright light emanating the entire room, blinding us all.

What's...going on? I fell face flat on the floor until ten seconds later, I soon started to get up with Kodiak running over and licking my face. "W-what?"

"You okay, dude?" Kodi asked in worried.

"Y-yeah, I think so."  I nodded in agreement before seeing everypony gazing at Diamond Tiara. Jack settled her down on the ground the moment she began to slowly wake up.

"What the? How did I get here?" Diamond Tiara asked herself.

"You don't remember?" Mason asked with a raised brow.

"Yeah, you just started panicking and such with some crazy nonsense." Sweetie Belle explained.

"Ugh..." Diamond Tiara rubbed her head with a groan. "I can't remember a thing. The only thing I remember was being in my office."

"Huh? Are you serious?" Jack asked incredulously before scoffing "That obviously sounds like a lie considering you being a spoiled brat."

"Yeah! Especially blackmailing our friends." Rainbow added.

"What? How do you know that?!" Diamond Tiara demanded before realizing that the crowd of ponies she was accompanied with were glaring at her. "I-I mean...what ever do you mean?"

"It would seem that your lies won't get you anyway anymore." Twilight said sternly. "I'll be sure to tell Ms. Cheerilee about your behavior as being the editor-in-chief."

"Hmph! Whatever, I like to see you all try." Diamond Tiara stuck her tongue out, only to backed away in fear upon seeing Kodiak growling at her. 

"Well I'm glad that shut her up." Jack scoffed.

"B-but wait...y-you don't remember anything at all?" Jamie asked in confusion. "Just where you were?"

"Yes, I said that already stupid." Diamond Tiara scoffed, earning a frown from Jamie's face.

"Well that's weird." Applejack said with a confused look.

"Meh, probably just more of her lies." Rainbow rolled her eyes.

"Diamond Tiara!" Huh? We looked over to our right to see an older brown earth pony wearing a tie that had a money sigh on it and slick and smooth black mane and tail as he glared at his daughter. "I don't know what made you think about forcing your own classmates to write all those hurtful comments to these innocent ponies, even to one of my employers."

"Hey, who's that?" Kaede asked.

"Oh, t-that's Filthy Rich. Diamond Tiara's father." Jamie explained. "We met during our first Equestrian Christmas celebration."

"Oh yes. I seem to recall that we met during Family Appreciation Day." Mason smiled. "I would see that you joined in on the angry mob, yes?"

"Oh, hello there Mason, Jamie, and the Apple Family." Filthy Rich smiled over us. "It's good to see ya.

"You're really avoiding the question." Nicole pointed out. "Were you apart of the mob or not is the question Mason is asking."

"Oh yes, I am terribly sorry about that." Filthy Rich apologized. "I didn't mean to partake in it. I was just curious and wanted to find my own answers whether it was true or not, so please forgive me for anything I could've said to you." He glared at his daughter sternly. "Especially if my daughter forced these poor innocent girls to do terrible things for the Foal Free Press."

"It's alright." Mason assured.

"So what are you gonna do with her Mr. Filthy Rich?" Carrie asked curiously.

"Easy, I'll make sure that she gives an apology to all of Ponyville." Filthy Rich stated.

"Ahh, but daddy!-"

"No buts! Now march!" Filthy Rich pointed his hoof towards the door, much to her anger and frustration as she began marching off with the rest of the crowd looking on her before they turned back at us.

"Umm...hi?" I waved my hand nervously with a nervous smile. "Anyway, we're sorry about the whole thing. It was all just a misunderstanding and sorry if we didn't tell you all but I swear that we don't eat meat anymore since we're here. It's a promise."

The crowd gave me and the rest doubtful looks, causing me to frown sadly. Man, I guess they still don't trust me yet, do they? Suddenly, we heard someone walking towards us as we saw a little foal making his way towards me with a curious look and asked me a little request.

"Pinkie promise?" Ahh, now that's just adorable. Who can't reject a face such as that?

I let out a nod before began doing the gestures for the Pinkie Promise Pinkie Pie Style. "Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye."

That made the little foal giggled and the rest of the crowd let out some 'Aww' on us before they began walking towards me and the others with apologetic looks.

"Hey humans...we're so sorry."

"Sorry if I called you a monster."

"Could you ever forgive us all?"

"Would somepony like a muffin to accept our apologies?"

I looked over at the crowd with a surprised look while some of the others had bewildered looks and smiles on their faces. I let out a smile before nodding and replied "Yeah, it's okay everypony. After all, you know the saying folks 'Everypony deserves a second chance', am I right?"

The crowd murmured in agreement with bright smiles on their faces before they began to take their leave out of our home, now sporting calm and happy looks instead of the angry looks they had a moment ago.

"Well that's a relief. Glad that's over." Rantaro sighed. "Heh, for a minute there, I thought for sure those guys might've tried to kill us or something."

"Don't say stuff like that!" Rarity exclaimed angrily. "We wouldn't dare resort to such violence!"

"Sure, say what you want beautiful." Rantaro shrugged nonchalantly, ignoring the squawking coming out of her.

"That was awesome Ren! Told ya that one day that the Pinkie Promise would always make others trust ya! Just remember not to break it." Pinkie reminded me, causing me to smile nervously as I rubbed the back of my neck and said "Yeah...I'll be sure to remember that."

After all, I don't want to go where Applejack went when she nearly broke your Pinkie Promise that one time ago back at Dodge Junction.

"But you know what? Nothing's more surprising but seeing Fluttershy defend you like that." Pinkie turned to Fluttershy with an excited grin. "You were awesome back there Fluttershy!"

"O-oh!" Fluttershy blushed and looked away nervously. "D-do you really mean that?"

"Hell yeah!" Jack nodded with a toothily grin before nudging me. "Who knew your gal had the guts to even talk back to those idiots."

"H-Hey!" I looked away with a blush on my face.

"You know, they do have a point." Kaede smiled happily. "You were pretty amazing there Fluttershy. Thanks for defending us all."

"W-well...you're welcome." Fluttershy thanked.

"And we're sorry for writing those nasty comments." Apple Bloom apologized.

"Yeah, we wanted to stop at first but we didn't because everypony seemed so interested in it and DIamond Tiara wouldn't let us quit because she blackmailed us." Carrie explained. "I wanna tell you guys but she blackmailed me too if I told anyone because I would've been the cause for humiliating my own friends and I thought you guys might hate us forever."

"Of course not, darling." Rarity shook her head with a soft smile. "What's important is that you girls learned your lessons."

"Indeed." Mason patted his sister's head with a satisfied smile. "Well I'm just glad this is all over now and hopefully the town and possibly all of Equestria will accept us again due to finding out about our diet."

"True..." Twilight nodded, who was rubbing her chin in deep thought. "But I am just curious about Diamond Tiara."

"Huh? What about her?" Rainbow asked with a raised brow.

"Yeah, I mean she's caught, isn't she?" Spike reminded her.

"True, but I can't help but wonder why she can't remember anything and that bright flash from before..." Oh yeah, I totally forgot about that for a moment there.

"Yeah, what was the big deal with that?" Kodi wondered. "It happened when Ren touched Diamond Tiara and somehow got her out of her sanity."

"Yeah, just what happened?" Jamie nodded, crossing his arms in thought before taking out his notebook and began writing some info down. "It's best if we tried to figure this out later Twilight."

"Indeed." Twilight nodded.

"Yes." Nicole smiled a bit. "But you know...this is the first time I've ever encountered something crazy like that in one day."

"Trust me, you're gonna see a lot of crazy in this world." Rantaro sighed.

"True..." Nicole nodded before furrowing her brows at him. "But if I may ask....why did you lie?"

"Eh?" Rantaro looked at her like she grew a second head or something.

"The part about seeing those little girls going into the central elevator...that was definitely a lie. You committed perjury." Nicole explained, much to our shock.

"What?! You lied?!" Applejack glared at Rantaro, who just shrugged at her and replied "So what? It cleared her out of suspicion."

"But lying is still a wrong thing to do." Applejack scolded.

"Of course you wouldn't lie, farm girl." Rantaro smirked. "You would one day find out how lying can be useful in times." 

"Yeah, for a creep like you." Jack muttered.

"You can say that again." Rarity nodded.

"So wait..." Apple Bloom looked at Rantaro, along with the rest of the Crusaders with shocked and awe looks. "You lied to protect us? You did it for us? Despite everything, you helped us?"

"You may say something like that but-" Before he could finish, he was immediately hugged by Carrie and the Crusaders, much to his bewilderment.

"Thank you Mr. Rantaro!" Carrie thanked, letting out some tears. "We can't thank you enough!"

"Yeah! You're okay in my book!" Scootaloo smiled happily.

"R-right..." Rantaro raised a brow at them as they ended their hugs and smiled happily at him.

"We won't ever forget about this, Mr. Rantaro!" Sweetie Belle thanked.

"W-whatever..." Rantaro muttered before looking over the file. "Though I am curious to know what it is."

The Crusaders widened their eyes in shock before jumping all over him, attempting to take back the file.

"No! Give it back!" Apple Bloom demanded.

"Please! Don't look at it!" Sweetie Belle begged.

"We'll do anything just don't look at it!" Scootaloo pleaded.

"Jeez, you guys are really panicking over one measly file even though it's what caused you girls to be blackmailed in the first place." Rantaro rolled his eyes as he attempted to read the file, but the Crusaders kept preventing him from doing so while the rest of us looked at each other in surprise and concern. 

"Wow, did not expect that to happen." Kodi said aloud.

"You said it, dog. You said it." Rainbow nodded.

"Speaking of which..." Nicole turned to me curiously before grabbing my hand, much to my surprise as she took me far away from the group. "Ren...can we talk?"

"Huh? Sure, what for Nikki?" I asked in confusion. Nicole glanced away before saying "I'm not sure what happened, but that bright light...it came from you the moment you touched Diamond Tiara."

"I get that...but I don't know why." I said, looking at my hand. "Why are you asking me that?"

"...I am not sure why..." She narrowed her eyes at me. "But there is definitely something strange going on...I'm not sure but do you remember when I looked at Diamond Tiara and tried to sense what was wrong with her?"

"Yeah?" Where exactly is this going?

"...She was thinking of committing suicide."

"...Huh?" At that moment, I looked at her with a shocked look as I was unable to hear what she just said to me. "S-suicide? Are you serious right now?!"

"Yes, you should know that I am a psychologist and I am able to read people's emotions and personalities very well." Nicole nodded before looking over at her iPad. "But for some strange reason, she was thinking of that but the moment after the flash, she acted like her normal self."

"B-but that's-"

"Quite strange and crazy?" Oh dang it! She beat me to it! "It is...which makes us begs the question...why was she even thinking of that before? And why can't she remember everything that she did?"

Those are good questions. I gazed at my hand and blinked in confusion, wondering what just happened? What was that bright flash all about? Why would Diamond Tiara at one point think about suicidal thoughts but later stopped that? I...I don't understand this at all...my head hurts right now...

"But...we may discuss this later." Nicole took her glasses off and began wiping them off with her own piece of cloth. "But overall, I think it's best if we kept this a little secret till we find more about it. Something's happening here in this world and we need to be prepared on what we're about to face..."

"Y-yeah...I'll try to remember." I nodded, letting out a gulp. I really don't get it...but overall, at least everything's back to normal now, right? But still...why do I have this uncertainty in my heart that this isn't all over yet?

"Hey you guys, what are you two talking about?" We looked over to see the others looking at me with concern and confused looks.

"It's nothing..." Nicole answered. "I should be off now...farewell..."

With that, Nicole headed over to the central elevator and immediately, she was gone.

"And she's gone...great." Rantaro grumbled.

"Hey Ren, what were you and Nicole talking about?" Fluttershy asked curiously.

"Ooh! Ooh! Maybe a surprise birthday party?" Pinkie guessed, which made me chuckle and shook my head. 

"Nah, it was just some secret." I replied before raising my hands in surrender. "But it's nothing, honest."

"Okay then, partner." Applejack shrugged.

"Are you sure?" Mason questioned.

"Yeah, it's nothing." I replied back. 

Yeah...it was nothing. Nothing at all...



Meanwhile
"Well...it would seem that it nearly worked." Void was seen watching Ponyville from the skies as he began manifesting some dark power in his hands over with a single dark-looking shard in his hands. "But overall, at least I got a bit of darkness from all of their hatred...and it would seem that the Elements' magic is starting to fading away judging by that little pony's reaction. Soon...this world will surely be brought back of the hope that was lost from when these specimen took control of it."

With that, Void disappeared in the dark unknown with a little shard in his hands. Just what was happening?



The Next Day
After the incident yesterday involving many apologies from all citizens of Ponyville, Ms. Cheerilee called over all members of the Foal Free Press Club to discuss the events yesterday.

"Well, staff, I guess I gave a little too much authority to a first-time editor." Ms. Cheerilee said, glaring at Diamond Tiara. "I'm sorry, Diamond Tiara, but I have no choice but to strip you of your title."

She slammed her back hooves onto the wall, folding back a screen with Diamond Tiara's image painted on it. Diamond Tiara growled angrily before walking over next to Carrie and co.

"And for the next editor of the Foal Free Press..." Diamond Tiara gave the girls a raspberry, which made Carrie give her one back. "...Here's your new editor-in-chief, Featherweight!"

The door to the office opened up, revealing the pony from before who was forced to take those horrible photos of the Crusaders to blackmail them. Apparently, like his name implied, his entire Pegasi body was lighter like a feather, literally.

But the students didn't care about that as they at least had a better and nicer editor-in-chief unlike somepony who shall not be named.

"Ugh! Him? But what about me?!" Diamond Tiara demanded. As if on cue, a dark blue pony handed her an apron and hat to her.

"Here ya go! I've been promoted to staff photographer!" The pony grinned before snapping a picture of her. The flash nearly caught her off balance as she landed near a machine, causing ink to spill all over her.

"AH HA HA HA!" Carrie and the others laughed while Diamond Tiara glared at them angrily, hoping that one day that she will get her revenge on them...not.
To Be Contined
> Chapter 53 - Detective Kaede And The MMMystery on the Friendship Express
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

You know, I've always seen many desserts in my life. Like some delicious Red Velvet Cake, a good old fashion Cheese Cake, Chocolate and Vanilla pudding and a combination cake between those two frosting favors. I always thought it would be impossible to create the 'Ultimate Cake' but never in my entire life would something like this to be found because a few weeks after we proved our innocence, Pinkie called us over to Sugarcube Corner and the moment we arrive, that's when we saw 'it'.

It was gotta be the world's greatest, biggest, and has to be absolutely delicious cake I have ever seen!

"Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness. You've really outdone yourselves, Mr and Mrs. Cake." Pinkie complimented her bosses. "This is sure to be the winning entry of this year's national dessert competition!"

"And the best birthday cake ever!" Ren exclaimed in joy. You see, today marks the first day of summer and what's better is that tomorrow will be Ren's birthday.

"With a cake like that..." Kodi licked his lips with a satisfied smile. "I'm sure that the judges will give this cake 10 out of 10."

"Oh thank you, Pinkie and Ren!" Mrs. Cake giggled. "And trust us Ren, we've worked very hard on it. Apparently, when Pinkie found out about your birthday was on June, we've decided to planned this cake out to make it just like what you wanted."

"Really?" Ren asked incredulous before turning to Pinkie with a surprised look. "But how did you know when my birthday was? I don't think I told you or any of the others when it was."

"Sorry Rennie, that's a secret I can't tell!" Pinkie saluted in a silly way, sticking her tongue out a bit.

"Trust me, none of us figured out how she knew about other ponies' birthdays." Mrs. Cake sighed with a smile.

"But overall, thanks for transporting it all the way to Canterlot for us." Mr. Cake added.

"Don't you worry you guys! We won't let ya down!" Kodiak assured with an excited grin. 

"Yeah! We promise that we won't let ya down!" Carrie nodded.

"Absolutely!" Pinkie nodded, feeling proud right at the moment. "It's my honor and I-"

"Uh, beg pardon, but could we maybe move things along?" Applejack interrupted with an awkward smile.

"Why is that Applejack?" I asked in confusion. "Isn't your brother, Mason, and Jack already carrying the cake for us towards the train station?"

"True, but this here cake's a mite heavy. Right, Big Macintosh?" We looked over to see Mason, Jack, and Big Macintosh each carrying the one big cake and it would seem that they couldn't carry it any longer.

"E-Eeyup!" Big Mac replied.

"Just hurry the hell up already and let's go going! I'm already damn hungry!" Jack exclaimed, which frightened Mr. and Mrs. Cake as well as Big Macintosh. Due to his flinch in fear, the cake nearly feel but Mason effectively caught it in time before he gave out a sigh of relief and glared at the outlaw biker. "Oh...right...sorry. I didn't mean about 'that'."

"No no dearie, it's alright." Mrs. Cake assured, sweat-dropping a little. "We know that you dearies don't mean about us, just something else that isn't pony-related meat, right?"

"Yeah." Ren nodded. "I mean, I have never encounter a human eating horse or pony meat, so technically speaking that we don't eat ponies. I mean, we aren't 'that' heartless."

"Phew." The three ponies sighed in relief.

"Next time Jack, keep your mouth shut." Mason said sternly.

"Yeah yeah, whatever." Jack scoffed.

I let out a sigh and shook my head at them. It's been a while since then and whenever we get hungry, the ponies sometimes becomes afraid of us till we have to explain ourselves that we only eat chicken meat and not what they think, much to their relief. Besides, I've quite enjoyed eating hay sandwich and such despite it being pony food. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Carrie stated that they send every single newspaper of their apology along with added comments about us explaining the situation to clearly everypony in Ponyville, Cloudsdale, and Canterlot. Hopefully Princess Celestia got word of it. Wonder how she'll take it...

"Alrighty then, Big Mac, Masey, and Jacky!" I looked over to see Pinkie putting on a worker's hat that had a flashing red light on top before approaching the three of them. "To the train depot!"

"Got it!" Mason, Jack, and Big Mac nodded as they began following Pinkie Pie while the rest of us began taking leave.

"Oh wait dearies!" We looked back to see Mrs. Cake walking over with a bunch of bags to us. "It's for you all as an apology for trying to get rid of you and breaking into your home."

"No, it's okay." I shook my head with a smile. "We've already said that it's okay and that we forgive you guys."

"We know, but we're still feeling guilty for ever accusing you guys for eating meat." Mr. Cake explained with an apologetic smile. "We should've understand that's the way how you humans survive."

"Well even so, thank you." I smiled softly at them before receiving the packed lunches from them. "But..."

I took something out of my pockets and gave them some chocolate bars. "I just happened to have these back at the home-ship, and I kept them around but think of it as a token of our appreciation."

"Well thank you, I guess." Mrs. Cake chuckled before she and her husband accepted the chocolate bars that I gotten out of the home-ship.

"Well we better get going!" Ren stated, running towards the door. "See ya you guys and we promise that we won't let ya down!"

"Yeah and I promise that I won't eat the cake!" Kodi added, running out of the door with Ren. I let out an amused smile before turning to the Cakes and said "Well better get going. We'll send word about the competition!"

"Thanks you guys!" Mr. Cake smiled as I walked out of the door and saw the three boys following after Pinkie with the cake they were carrying. I think Pinkie called it 'Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness'. Which is by the way, the longest name I've ever heard of. Talk about a mouthful...

"That's it, Big Mac, Jacky, and Masey, nice and slow." Pinkie instructed. "This is precious cargo you're all carrying."

"You don't think we frigging knew that." Jack scoffed.

"Yes, it took months of planning and testing." Mr. Cake added as he and his wife watched with worried looks.

"I would hate for it to-"

Big Macintosh nearly tripped and almost dropped the cake, much to our shock and surprise.

"Fall!" The Cakes shouted out before Mr. Cake fainted from the shock.

"W-whoa!" Jack yelled out in surprise before he and the other two began balancing it back up. "Phew..."

"That was a close one." Mason sighed in relief. 

"Don't worry, Mr. and Mrs. Cake." Pinkie assured with her carefree smile before turning to Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Rantaro. "Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rantaro, a little pegassistance?"

"'Pegassistance'? Really?" Rantaro raised a brow. "Lame."

"I thought it was clever." Rantaro gave Fluttershy a deadpanned look, like he didn't care what Fluttershy even said. Rantaro, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy complied by carrying the cake a little off of Big Mac's back and the arms of Jack and Mason's while Rantaro barely did anything and just directed them towards the train station. Luckily, Rantaro's pet friend, Gizmo, brought some rope and handed it to his owner before he tied it around the two Pegasus' backs and used it on the handle of the cake's tray, making it more easy for to not make it drop.

Pinkie soon turned to the Cakes with a smile and said "I'll get it there safely, you'll see!"

Mr. and Mrs. Cake smiled nervously at their pink employer before the latter said "Ahahahah, oh...of course, Pinkie."

"We never doubted you." Mr. Cake added, sweating nervously.

Why do they sound like they didn't have any complete trust over Pinkie Pie?

"Ooh!" Carrie was in awe upon seeing the cake. "I can't wait to eat this cake at Ren's birthday at Canterlot!"

I turned to Carrie with a smile and said "Actually, the judges need to see how it tastes and see if it's the best cake there is in Equestria, and then we can eat it for Ren's birthday party."

"I know, but I'm so excited!" Carrie cheered.

"You can say that again!" Ren laughed, rubbing the back of his neck before letting out a frown. "But you know, this will be the first time I'm doing this without my family. It's kind of a shame that they can't be here with me..."

"Oh right..." I looked away with a sigh before muttering "I totally forgot about that..."

"Sorry about that Ren." Kodiak apologized, feeling bad for Ren. However, Ren shook his head with a soft smile and replied "Don't worry you guys, I have all of you to make my party awesome."

I couldn't help but smile along with Kodi and Carrie upon hearing that. Ahh, that's so nice of him to include us in this. Ren always know what to do and tries to help others with his encouragement and kind heart. It makes me feel kinda glad that I have a friend like him. 

"Ahh, thanks man!" Kodi grinned brightly.

"Hey, that was quite nice of you to say that, Ren." I nudged him with a smile on my face.

"Thanks Kay." He nodded with a smile. You know, I...sorta feel jealous of Ren because like he describes himself, he's a normal person with a normal family. He has a brother, sister, and lovable parents. I wished I sorta had that feeling...

"W-whoa!" Huh? We looked over to see Fluttershy struggling with the cake, nearly making it drop until Rainbow immediately helped out Fluttershy and pulled the cake back into its position. Mr. and Mrs. Cake widened their eyes upon seeing it nearly fall down as the husband fainted once more. 

That was a close call. 

"I think it's best if we had more support with it?" I suggested.

"Yeah! We can't let the cake get ruined!" Ren added. "I mean, you can't have a birthday party without the cake!"

"Good point..." Pinkie nodded before looking over to Twilight and Jamie, who were looking over at their notes between the books they got from the mall district's bookshop. "Twilight, can I see you a second?" 

"Sure Pinkie Pie, what is it?" Twilight asked as Pinkie walked over and whispered something into her ear, and she seemed to get the idea as she began to making a grin. Before you know it, her horn began to glow as the cake was surrounded in a bubble-like aura.

"Huh, good idea Pinkie." Ren smiled happily.

"No problemo Rennie!" Pinkie grinned. "But thanks Twilight!"

"No problem Pinkie." Twilight nodded with a smile.

"H-Happy birthday, Ren." Jamie waved at him with a meek smile. 

"Thanks dude." Ren grinned happily. "Sorry if we we're interrupting you guys over what you were doing."

"N-no...it's understandable." Jamie assured with a weak smile. "But...if you don't mind...c-can I tag along?"

"Sure, I see why not." I shrugged.

"T-thank you." Jamie nodded with a soft smile before we continued our way towards the train station.

However, the Cakes weren't calming their nerves at all as they became more panic than ever.

"Better safe than sorry." Pinkie looked at the Cakes with a nervous smile, seeing them looking at the cake worriedly before glaring at Twilight back and forth.

"Please calm down. It's just a birthday cake and you can trust Pinkie with it." I assured with a grin.

"We know that dearie, but still...!" Mrs. Cake felt her stomach had a knot, seeing the cake tilting a bit.

I let out a sigh, seeing that there was no way to calm them down at all. We better hurry before it's too late to get this cake to the Ponyville Train Station.

"Hey wait! Look!" Carrie pointed over to see Rarity and Nicole and her pet polar bear, Snow, walking by.

"Come on Nicole, you might enjoy going to Canterlot. No better than staying cooped up in the home-ship all by yourself." Rarity pointed out. However, Nicole shook her head and kept looking over her iPad and replied "No thank you. I'm good."

"Oh boy..." Rarity sighed, shaking her head while Snow nuzzled Nicole's left hand, which made her smile softly at her friend.

"Hey, maybe we can ask them for help?" Carrie suggested.

"That sounds like a good idea." Ren suggested.

"Yeah!" Pinkie nodded before turning to the girls. "Rarity! Nikki!"

"Hm?" The two girls looked over to see the rest of them over with Ren's birthday cake. "What's all this? Is this cake for Ren's birthday as well as for the Canterlot Dessert off?"

"Yep! I need a tiny little favor that you, Nikki, and AJ can do to help us!" Pinkie smiled, much to the two girls confusion.

"...What is it?" Nikki questioned. Pinkie explained to them to hold onto a trampoline over behind us to make sure that the cake does indeed fall off but is able to catch it. Nicole kept her gaze over at the cake while Applejack and Rarity carried the trampoline with their teeth.

"All right, everypony, we're in the home stretch here." Pinkie called out, seeing us arriving to the train station.

"Finally!" Kodi sighed in relief. "I thought that we would never make it!"

"Now all we need to do is get that cake inside of the train!" I added. 

As Pinkie walked over to train cart and opened the door, she turned to the Cakes with a bright grin and said "See, Mr and Mrs. Cake? I got it here without a hitch! Now all we have to do is get it..."

But the moment she realized how huge the cake was to fit inside through the door, she widened her eyes before muttering "...In?"

"Well crap, it's over." Rantaro shrugged.

"No one asked for your opinion!" Jack yelled out.

"Whatever, we can't fit it through the door." Rantaro pointed out.

"Oh wait!" Ren took out his Hacking Gun before setting the dial up and aiming it at the cake. "Hey Twilight, can you dissolve the shield please?"

"Wait what?" Twilight asked in surprise with an incredulous raised brow. "Why? You aren't planning to shoot your own birthday cake, are you?"

"Trust me everyone. I got this." Ren nodded, which the others seemed to have agreed there. Twilight sighed before dissolving the shield down as Ren shot out a green beam out of the Hacking Gun as it began moving into the air.

Ren tilted his gun a bit, turning it sideways before it smoothly got into the train without any trouble, much to the other's relief.

"Good plan, Ren." Kodi complimented, which made Ren rubbed the back of his neck with a nervous and awkward smile.

"Ahh, it was nothing." Ren chuckled before turning to Big Mac, Jack, and Mason. "You three should head inside and carry the cake before putting it down over by the back."

"Got it!"

"Thanks again Ren."

"Eeyup!" The three boys walked inside of the train cart as Ren walked inside of it and managed to turn it back upwards before settling it down onto the tray before turning the green beam off.

"Wait a minute..." Jamie turned to Ren with a shocked look. "If you knew that could work, why didn't you do that earlier ago?!"

"He just forgot." Nicole answered, which made everyone stare at her before looking back at him.

"Yeah, it's true." Ren smiled awkwardly, which made the rest of us sigh. Oh Ren...

"Well it still worked, didn't it?" Fluttershy reminded them. "Now Ren's birthday cake is inside of the train and we can deliver it to the Dessert-Off at Canterlot."

"Yeah! Good point there Fluttershy!" Pinkie grinned as the rest of us began going inside of the train, all except for Nicole and Snowy. "You aren't coming Nikki?"

"No thanks, I rather not." Nicole answered bluntly. "I don't like traveling a lot unless it's necessary to travel."

"Come on." Rantaro walked over and began pulling her inside, and she seemed to not seemed to struggle at all. "It'll be a fun experience for someone of your status."

"Do you mean about my emotional state?" Nicole questioned.

"Sure, let's go with that." Rantaro rolled his eyes as Snow began pushing her inside of the train as well.

"You too Snow?" Nicole looked at her polar bear friend with a slightly surprised look while Snow nuzzled her face, causing her to smile softly before petting her in the head.  "Well alright...I suppose so."

"So will you-"

"Come with you guys all the way to Canterlot for the Dessert-off? I suppose so." Nicole shrugged, cutting off Carrie.

"Wow, she really must be psychic." Carrie blinked in surprise.

"That or intuition." Rantaro shrugged.

"It's just skill...that's all." Nicole assured, adjusting her glasses.

"Well I'm still glad that we've managed to bring your birthday cake all the way." I said to Ren with a smile. "You must feel really excited that your own cake is being presented to the competition?"

"You bet!" Ren grinned and winked. "My own 16th Birthday cake is gonna be presented in the Dessert-off!"

"Yeah, yeah, we get it. Alright?" Jack scoffed, sitting down on the nearby seat with an exhausted look. Big Mac then suddenly put the cake down on the ground before giving a firm nod to us and taking his leave out of the place.

"Well dearies..." Mrs. Cake peeked her head out of the train car's window with a worried yet soft smile. "Be sure that you don't get that cake ruined!"

"Don't worry Mr. and Mrs. Cake, we won't let you down!" Pinkie saluted.

"You can leave it to us!" Ren saluted as well. "We promise that the Marzipan what-you-may-call-it will win that competition and get first prize!"

"Now that's the spirits!" Mr. Cake complimented until we heard the train letting out a whistle, prompting the Cakes to take their heads out of the window before waving goodbye to us while we wave goodbye to them.

"Bye!" I bid them farewell with an excited smile. "We won't let you down and we'll be sure that your cake will definitely win that first place ribbon!"

"We know that you will!" Mrs. Cake shouted before they were out of sight as I sat back down on the couch with Rarity, Mason, and Carrie as we watched the others discussing about the deliciousness of the cake.

"I am quite excited to celebrate Ren's Sweet 16th Birthday!" Rarity giggled.

"You know, adding that 'sweet' part in that makes it sound like Ren is a lady." Mason pointed out.

"Yeah, but I know that it'll be fabulous!" Rarity sighed in joy. "Turning 16 will be a blast!"

"Yeah! I bet that he'll feel excited when he tastes it!" Carrie smiled.

"I know right?" I nodded, feeling excited on that part before taking something out of my sweater's pockets. "But...I have a little something that I want to give to Ren as a surprise."

"Oh? What is that?" Mason questioned, seeing the item in my possession. It was a wrapped item so you can't tell what it was but you all should know what it was? It was a birthday present for Ren.

"Just a little gift for him and I think he might like it." I giggled.

"Well if it makes him feel happy, then I won't mind on whatever you give him then darling." Rarity smiled. "But just out of curiosity, what is it?"

I gave them a soft smile before replying "Sorry, it's a secret."

"Aww..." Carrie groaned. "Can you tell us?"

"You'll just see for yourself once we arrive to Canterlot." I answered, much to Carrie's disappointment.

"Well whatever it is..." Mason smiled at me before saying "But whatever it is, I think Ren will definitely enjoy it."

"Y-yeah..." I nodded in agreement before gazing at the small wrapped gift. It's very special and I worked hard to get it. I just hope that it'll be something that he'll like and I knew that it'll be one sweet sixteen birthday party Ren will never forget.


My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic


"Thank you all for helping me get the cake safely on the dessert car." Pinkie led us to the dessert car, which were the other competitor's desserts were being held. Jack, Mason, and Applejack managed to bring Ren's birthday cake over by the car.

"Thank you for inviting us all to go with you to Canterlot for the National Dessert-Off!"

"Well of course!" Pinkie grinned. "I mean, we can't have a birthday party without all of their friends!"

"Exactly!" Ren nodded with a grin. "Trust me that my birthday will be something to be remembered."

"I'm sure the festivities will be just lovely." Rarity smiled.

"Phooey on the festivities!" Applejack smirked in excitement. "I can't wait to try all those tasty treats!"

"You can say that again..." Kodi chuckled, licking his lips at Ren's birthday cake. 

"Heh." Jack grinned toothily. "I gotta say kid, this birthday cake of yours is quite something."

"I know right?" Ren smiled, gazing at his cake. "I'm sure that it's gonna be the one that wins this competition!"

"Well..." Pinkie turned to us with a bright smile. "The tastiest treat of all is sure to be the Cakes'/Ren's Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness Birthday Cake. All of that rich creamy goodness of the marzipan, combined with the tart tanginess of the mascarpone, blended perfectly with the smooth, silky sweetness of the meringue. That's why I call the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness the "MMMM".

"MMMM." We all said, licking our lips at it.

"I can't take it!" Kodi laughed before charging over to the cake, but was stopped by Carrie as she pulled onto his collar.

"But you can't Kodi, it's for the contest right?" Carrie reminded him, much to his disappointment.

"Oh...right...I forgot." How could you forget so easily? We were just talking about it five minutes ago.

"You know, this cake is so good looking." I commented. 

"Exactly Kay!" Pinkie nodded. "It's the most delicious delectable delightful de-lovely cake in Equestria, and it's sure to win first prize."

"A-Are you sure?" Jamie asked, earning looks from us. "I-I was just saying...w-what if there is another dessert that might beat it."

"Totally not true Jamie!" Pinkie shook her head with a smile. "There's no way that there's any cake that can outsmart the 'MMMM'.

"Zis is not so." Huh? We all looked over to see a bird-like creature walking into the dessert car, and judging by what he said and how he looks what with that chef outfit and with that smooth thin mustache, I say that he might've taken french class or something. "For I, Gustave Le Grand, do challenge your crude cake to a duel of delectable delicacies against my Exceptionally Exquisite Eclairs!" 

"...What?" Rantaro asked with a deadpanned look on his face. The french accent bird-like creature showed us his dessert in a very bright manner, literally, nearly blinding us. It was a bunch of those desserts where it shaped like a thin non-shaped Donut with some cheesy frosting inside of them and there was probably like hundreds of them stacked together. 

"Ahh, Exquisite Eclairs." Nicole blinked in surprise. "They're quite good when I first ate them...it was decent enough."

"Decent?!" Gustave exclaimed in shock. "I can assure you mademoiselle that my Exquisite Eclairs are quite delectable! They will undoubtedly strike down all ze competition, winning first prize and crowning me la champion."

"He seems quite confident." I whispered to Ren, who nodded in agreement and replied "Yeah, but then again those Eclairs do taste good."

"Not a chance Le Grand!" Huh? Who is it now? We looked over to see an Earth Pony wearing a donut themed hat and apron entering the dessert car with a cart being covered with a sheet as he held a confident look on his face. Wait, that pony!

"Donut Joe!" Me, Twilight, Ren, Carrie, Kodiak, and Mason exclaimed in shock while some of the others looked at us in confusion as Twilight yelled out "What are you doing in Ponyville?!"

"Wait, y-you know him?" Jamie asked in confusion.

"Yes!" Twilight nodded. "He owns a donut shop back at Canterlot, which is one of Spike and I's favorite donut shop."

"So he's some Donut loving pony with a Brooklyn accent?" Rantaro scoffed before letting out a smirk. "Well this is certainly interesting and this is probably something that won't waste my time."

"So how you doing?" Ren asked with a smile. "We hardly talked to you after the Grand Galloping Gala."

"Well I was just picking up the final all-important ingredient for my contest entry, 'Donutopia!' He presented a donut-themed city with his hoof as well. "And these super-sprinkles..." He shook a can of sprinkles above it. "My donuts are going to dunk all the other lousy desserts, steal first prize, and make my donut shop famous, forever!" 

Okay, that's bit of an exaggeration there.

"Well it does look good." Mason smirked.

"I've seen better." Nicole said bluntly, much to Donut Joe's shock.

"What?! But you haven't even taste it yet!" Donut Joe retorted.

"...." Nicole went silent before going over to her iPad, much to the rest of us disappointment. Oh Nicole...

"Oh, Joe..." Now what? We looked over to see a chocolate covered moose slide into the dessert car, accompanied by an mule wearing a cyan colored beaded necklace. "Your dippy donuts could never out-rival me."

"I'm sorry, who the hell are you?" Jack snorted. "What? Some old hag of an ugly mule?"

Unfortunately, he was hit in the head by Mason's pole as he sternly said "Jack! Respect your elders!"

"OW! Hey!" Jack yelled.

"Whoa..." Ren muttered in awe, gazing at the chocolate covered moose. "This dessert looks good, but maybe not good enough for my birthday cake."

"Well I can assure you..." The old mule chuckled arrogantly. "That my mousse moose are quite delicious and will definitely win the competition."

"So what's your name?" Pinkie asked curiously.

"I, am Mulia Mild." The mule stated with a smirk. "Behold, my chocolate mousse moose and it will trample all your treats, be given first prize, and make me the greatest chef in Equestria!"

"Jeez, and here I thought that you guys called me arrogant." Rantaro rolled his eyes. "So what? All four of your desserts are just plain and simple, that's all."

"We shall see." Gustave scoffed before turning to Mulia Mild. "Madame Mild...you are your mousse moose are mistaken."

"Your frou-frou eclairs will never defeat my donuts." Donut Joe intervened.

"The Cakes and Rennie's Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness Birthday Cake is going to win!" Pinkie added, glaring at the other competitors.

"Your simple cake could never take my moose!" Oh no, this is not good. We better split them up before they make things worse than it already is.

"Alright, break it up." Mason intervened, getting between their conversation. "Okay, you all need to calm down and try not to argue more. Right now, the judges tomorrow at the Dessert-Off will judge which of your desserts is the best one."

"Indeed." Nicole nodded before narrowing her eyes at the four competitors. "You four need to stop arguing because it'll be just pointless for you all to keep throwing random arguments about which one of your desserts is delicious. Personally...I say all of your desserts looks kinda average to me."

"What are you? Some sort of reviewer?!" Donut Joe exclaimed.

"Everypony stop!" Ren exclaimed. "Come on, can we just give it a rest?"

"Yeah." I nodded in agreement with a smile. "I'm sure all of your desserts taste really good, so there's no point in fighting each other."

"Yeah." Twilight agreed, stepping up before announcing "Well it sure looks like we're in for a delicious competition tomorrow." 

"Mm-hmm." Carrie nodded before letting out a yawn and rubbing her eyes. "I'm so sleepy..."

"Oh." Mason walked over and picked up his sister, seeing her half-asleep expression. "It's best if we all rest up tomorrow."

"Hmph." Donut Joe scoffed, exiting out of the dessert car.

"Nyahh." Mulia Mild sighed.

"Huh!" Gustav snorted before taking his leave and slamming the door hard.

Soon, we heard Rainbow Dash letting out a yawn before saying "I gotta admit I'm pretty beat."

"Yeah..." Jack scratched his butt a little. "I'm gonna hit the hay myself."

"You took the words right out of my mouth." Applejack chuckled.

"Wait wait wait wait wait WAIIIIIIT!" We all stopped upon see Pinkie blocking out the exit. 

"Great, now we have to listen more to little miss crazy pants herself here." Rantaro sighed in exasperation. "What is it now?"

"Didn't you hear those chefs?! We have to protect "MMMM"." Pinkie told us, much to our confusion.

"MMMM?" We all asked.

"Mmm-hmmm." Pinkie nodded. "I know for super sure that "MMMM" is the best dessert in all of Equestria, and I know that they know it too."

"No they don't." Rantaro retorted.

"So...?" Rainbow Dash raised a brow at her, not following what Pinkie meant.

"So...one of them is going to sabotage the Cakes'/Rennie's birthday cake tonight! You have to help me stand guard!"

"S-seriously?" Ren asked in surprise. "Is that...even possible?"

"Pinkie..." Twilight gave Pinkie an incredulous look and said "You're overreactig."

"Yeah, those chefs aren't going to do Ren's birthday cake any harm." Applejack agreed.

"But they are! I just know it!" Pinkie exclaimed. "I mean, we have to be careful because if that cake gets ruined, then not only Rennie is ever gonna celebrate his 16th birthday ever, but the Cakes will be so angry like that one guy who loves yelling and screaming at the other chefs on that hit chef-cook off show call 'Hell's Kitchen'."

"Oh, do you mean-"

Pinkie interrupted me by placing her hoof on my mouth with a silent 'Shh' sound on me.

"They can hear you." Pinkie whispered before looking over at whatever she's looking at.

"Who? The chefs?" Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion.

"No, the readers. We can't say apparently because of copyright reasons." Okay, what? I have no clue on what she's trying to say anymore and I think it's best...for our sanity. 

"Riiiiight....Well goodnight." Rantaro quickly went past Pinkie, much to her surprise and disappointment.

"B-b-but!" Pinkie sputtered out while the rest of us looked at each other and shrugged.

"How about this? Why not you guard the cake?" Ren suggested. "That way no one will eat my cake, how about that Pinkie?"

Pinkie smiled brightly at that idea before giving the birthday boy a tight hug. "Ooh! Good idea Rennie! That way no one would touch your "MMMM" birthday cake and will be proven that your "MMMM" Birthday cake is truly the number#1 dessert in all of Equestria!"

"T-thanks Pinkie...!" Ren sputtered out before being released from the tight hug as he fell to the ground and tried to regain his breathe.

"Damn...that was one tight bear hug." Jack said loudly and bluntly.

"Y-yeah..." Jamie nodded. "But are you sure about this Pinkie? Y-you don't have to do this."

"Yeah, why not come with us and have a nice long nap over by the cabin cars?" I offered, but Pinkie shook her head and stated "No! I have to protect "MMMM" from the other chefs!"

"Well...okay then." I sighed before smiling over her. "Why not I stay and help out as well?"

Everyone stared at me with shocked and surprised looks while Pinkie brightened up on that idea.

"Really Kay? You would do that for me?!" Pinkie asked excitedly.

"Well sure." Kaede nodded. "I mean, I won't mind."

Pinkie immediately hugged me tight, much to my surprise. Oh man, now I can see why Ren was struggling with her hug.

"Oh thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!" Pinkie kept thanking me while I was struggling with her hug.

"You're welcome...Pinkie...but can you...please let...me go..." I pleaded, almost running out of breath as Pinkie dropped me to the ground while I tried my best to catch my breath. Oh man...who knew that a pony like her could have so much strength...

"Are you sure Kaede?" Fluttershy asked in worried. I nodded with a smile as I finally regained all my energy back and replied "Don't worry everyone, me and Pinkie will be fine."

"Fine!" Rainbow rolled her eyes. "If you two want to stand guard, go for it. We're going to bed."

With that, the others began taking their leave while Ren turned back to us with a soft smile and said "Goodnight you two, I hope you two make sure that 'MMMM' will be okay in the tomorrow."

With that, he took his leave while I let out an exhausted sigh, falling onto my knees.

"What have I gotten myself into?" I sighed.

"Don't worry Kay!" Pinkie patted me on the back before making a serious and determined look while she gazed at where our friends were last standing. "We'll show them. We'll stay up all night and protect you. Nothing and nopony will stop me from keeping you safe."

She looked over at the 'MMMM' cake with a serious look before she began walking back and forth like she was a guard. I soon stood back up and sat down on one of the chairs here on the train and just watched her keep moving back and forth with a serious look. Wow, she's really serious on making sure no one touches the cake.

"She's really serious about keeping Ren's birthday cake safe and sound, huh?"  I muttered, loud enough for Pinkie to hear.

"Well of course!" Pinkie nodded before appearing right in front of me. "It's just that Rennie really needs one! I'm not just doing because he wants one, I'm doing because I wanted him to enjoy and have more fun here in Equestria! Besides, it's been a year since he got here before any of you guys showed up for the series, right?"

Series of what? Oh never mind.

"Well yeah. It is true. I think him having a birthday party was a great idea Pinkie." I giggled before taking out my wrapped gift out of my pockets. "Especially since I made him this present."

"Ooh!" Pinkie said in awe. "A present for old Rennie! That's wonderful Kay!"

"Thanks. I made this and it took me all night last night to make it." I said, smiling over at the gift. 

"That's awesome!" Pinkie bounced around happily. "I bet Rennie will be surprised to see that, eh Kay?"

"You bet!" I nodded before looking out the window and saw the sun setting. "Oh wow, it's already late?"

Well we did have to bring the cake all the way at the afternoon.

"Oh! Better get back to safe-guarding this cake! We'll talk later Kay!" Pinkie grinned before patting me on the head. "And I hope that your gift makes Rennie happy!"

"Yeah..." I nodded with a smile before seeing her marching back and forth, making sure that she doesn't keep her eyes off of Ren's cake. Soon enough, we spend almost the entire night and keeping the cake stay still and have no one take a bite of it...

Oooh...we've been here for several hours and I'm already tired out.

"You already tired?" Huh? What the?! How did she get...never mind. 

"Y-yeah...but I'm sure it's nothing." I yawned before rubbing my eyes. "We should probably keep watch over the 'MMMM' cake."

"Well..." Pinkie glanced over at the cake before looking back at me. "I don't know Kay, I think it's best maybe you should rest up."

"No, I'm right." I assured before stretching my back. "I'll just go to the bathroom to wash up."

"Okay." Pinkie nodded as I began to exit out of the dessert car before letting out another yawn. Oh man, I've never been so tired out before.

"Meow." Hm? I looked behind of my backpack, seeing Rosy popping her head out of it. She looked at me with great concern before licking my cheek, causing me to softly smile.

"Don't worry girl, I'm okay." I assured with a soft grin before I began walking through the train cabin cart to go and find the bathroom before I was bumped into someone.

"OW!" I winced in pain before falling down on the ground and looking to see who I bumped into. "Huh? Rantaro?"

"Oh great, I have to bumped into you of all people." Rantaro scoffed before looking away in annoyance.

"Rantaro...what are you doing out this late?" I asked cautiously.

"What? Can't a guy like me walk around?" Rantaro asked in exasperation. "I have no time with a girl like you."

"Excuse me?" I asked, feeling offended by that comment before placing my left hand on my hip. "What does that suppose to mean?"

"I don't know, why don't you figure that out yourself?" Rantaro rolled his eyes. "Speaking of which, why are you doing out this late? I thought you and that crazy party planner were guarding that stupid cake?"

"Hey! It's Ren's birthday cake, remember?" I scolded him. "Anyway, I was going to the bathroom, that's all."

"Whatever." Rantaro rolled his eyes. "Not interested in your story and you're already wasting three minutes of my time."

"What's your problem?" I asked, feeling a bit irritated by that. "Why do you always act like...a jerk?"

"....I have my reasons." Rantaro answered, picking his ear a bit. "But I rarely do love sharing a story or two about my somewhat, heheh...wicked past."

"What?" I asked, raising brows at him with confusion.

"Nothing, see ya." With that, Rantaro walked pass me and continued walking away with his pet raccoon, Gizmo, stretching his right eye down and stuck his tongue out. I let out a 'HMPH' sound and continued walking my way while Rosy glared at Rantaro and Gizmo. You know, I'll never understand that guy...just what's with that guy? Why does he love being so...mysterious?



Later
Ahh, that felt better. After I was done washing my face at the bathroom, I exited with Rosy by my side and tried to going back to the dessert car. I wonder what Pinkie has been doing...Wait, why am I asking that? She's probably guarding Ren's birthday cake. 

BAM!

"AH!" I winced in pain as I fell to the ground as Rosy fell right next to me. Rosy got back up and shook her head before noticing me on the floor. She panicked before running over and began licking my face. I softly smiled at her before getting back up and holding her in my hands.

"Oh, thank you Rosy." I thanked, snuggling Rosy in a soft hug. But strange, who did I just bumped into?! I looked around and noticed that no one was around. Strange, I know that I bumped into someone...and why is it so suddenly dark suddenly?

"AH HA!" 

What the-

"GAH!" I fell to the floor before looking up to see the curtains being opened, revealing Pinkie Pie pinning me to the floor.

"Huh? Kay?!" Pinkie gasped dramatically. "Did you try to eat the Ren's 'MMMM' birthday cake?!"

"What are you talking about?!" I exclaimed in shock. "No I didn't! I was in the bathroom!"

"Meow meow meow!" Rosy agreed, protesting against Pinkie.

"Are you sure?" Pinkie looked at me suspiciously.

"Honest!" I nodded. "Besides, I did tell you that I was going to the bathroom, remember?"

"Hmmmmm...." Pinkie glanced up in thought before getting off of me with a cheery grin and said "Alright, you make a good point."

"Thanks." I got back up from the floor before dusting myself off. "So what's going on? Did someone tried to eat Ren's 'MMMM' birthday cake?"

"Yeah! Somepony came into the car, but I didn't see who it was so I tried to chase after them, but they somehow invaded me like a ninja! As soon as I came back to guard Ren's 'MMMM' birthday cake, another pony came in and I still didn't see them and I tried chasing after them again, only to lose them the moment I went into the steam engine room, and when I went back to the car again, somepony closed the curtains and I tried to fight and catch whoever did that till I fell onto someone and that's when I bumped into you on the floor."

"I....see." I smiled awkwardly before clearing my throat. "Well I'm sorry to say that whoever did that, I didn't see anyone come by."

"Ahh..." Pinkie sighed before forming a determined look. "But it's okay! Now I'm more pumped to guard Rennie's 'MMMM' birthday cake!"

With that, she dashed off with me and Rosy looking at each other with sweat-drops with confusion all over our faces. Well that was surely something...

Oh well, I better get back and make sure that nothing goes wrong. Soon, we walked back to the dessert car and sat back down on the chairs while I noticed Pinkie staring at the cake intensively with widened eyes. 

"Pinkie, you should rest up." I said, feeling concern for her. "If you don't then you're gonna get some baggy eyes in the morning and probably have trouble sleeping the next night."

Trust me, I once did it when I went to a sleepover with my friends.

"Sorry Kay! Can't talk! Must...stare...at...the...'MMMM'...." Never mind...oh well...it's best not to argue with her. Though, I am feeling so tired all over again. Oh well...I guess one little nap can't help.

With that, I held Rosy in my hands and gently put her in a hug and slowly began drifting to the darkness, falling asleep. Rosy snuggled against my chest and fell asleep as well. Man...I feel so exhausted.........



......What in the world is this? The whole town was nearly destroyed, and I couldn't tell if anyone survived or...

My own home was destroyed....everything was gone....the maid cafe that I worked in was destroyed and was in ruins. I think I was the only one to survive since the others...never mind...

I was in my maid's outfit and looked around before noticing a purple glow over to the far right. I walked over there and saw a small purple meteorite flashing on and off, over and over again. I blinked in surprise, wondering it was.

I slowly extended my hand and felt so curious...my own curiosity felt so deeply intrigued with it. However, like the old saying...'Curiosity kills the cat'.

"AHHHHHHH!" I screamed upon touching the meteorite as I began feeling something crawling into my body. It was like some sort of aura going inside of me...I felt so...different...what's...going...on....




"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" 

"Huh? What the?!" I immediately woken up and looked around, seeing the others in the room with Pinkie screaming loudly as she fell to her knees. Even Rosy woke up in alarm upon hearing that scream.

"I can't believe it!" Ren exclaimed in shock. "How could have this have happened?!"

"Oh dear!" Fluttershy covered her mouth in shock.

"What's going on?" I asked, rubbing my sore eyes before noticing the cake....well, what was left of it. "AHHHHHHHHH!" 

"MEOW!" Rosy screamed in shock upon seeing the cake being eaten in half.

"What happened?" Huh? We looked over to see the others arriving to the scene, including the three chefs.

"We heard some screaming and had to come here!" Mason said before noticing the 'MMMM' cake was eaten in half. "What the?"

"My 'MMMM' birthday cake! It's been half-eaten!" Ren cried out.

"It's true! The Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madnesss, it's been..." Pinkie started pouring out tears as she yelled out "Mutilated!"

We all gasped in shock, well except Rantaro and Nicole as they stared at the cake with narrow eyes.

"I can't believe it." Jamie covered his mouth in shock. "How could a-anyone taken a bite of it?"

"I know..." I sighed. "And I was suppose to help Pinkie to guard that cake."

"Don't blame yourself Kaede! It wasn't your fault!" Carrie assured, causing me to smile softly at her.

"Nah, it's pretty much her and Pinkie's fault." We all glared at Jack, which he noticed. "What?....What?!"

"No, Jacky's right!" Pinkie nodded with a serious look on her face. "Now we just need to find out who done it."

"You mean, who did it." Jamie corrected her.

"Exactly!" Pinkie nodded. "Who did-done-dood it."

"Okay..." Jamie sighed before smiling happily at this. "But you know what? I am quite eager to help you on this mystery."

"Ah, as I presume that you are a mystery novelist, correct?" Nicole guessed.

"Yes ma'am." Jamie nodded with a soft smile. "I've written almost every mystery novel from my entire life since I was a little boy and the best way to figure out who's the culprit is to investigate the crime scene and find some clues."

"Jamie's right." Twilight nodded with a grin. "I've read one of his novels and it was quite amazing and well-developed, including one of his best novels 'Murder Mystery on Lincoln Mansion'.

Jamie blushed a bit before asking "Y-you...really mean it?"

"Of course! You've written quite a well-developed, good plot-based, and interesting characters in your books including the mysteries themselves." Twilight beamed in excitement at this, which made Jamie cover his face with his notebook with his face all turned red.

"T-t-thank you..." Jamie nodded with a goofy smile, which made me have an amused smile on my face. Ooh, I think I know where this is going.

"Yeah! How about you two bookworms SHUT UP!" Jack exclaimed, ignoring the glares from the two said 'bookworms'. "Right now how about we figure out who eaten the cake?"

"Yeah!" Ren nodded with a serious look on his face. "My cake's life has been taken away from the criminal who did it and I'll find out who done it!"

"It's who did it, Ren." Twilight corrected him with a deadpanned look.

"Well either way, I say that we should try and figure out where to start." Mason suggested.

"Hm?" I soon noticed something was...up with Mason. He wasn't wearing his scarf. "Hey Mason, where's your scarf? I don't think I ever seen you without it."

"Huh?" Mason asked, blinking in surprise. He scratched the back of his neck and replied "O-oh right...it was getting hot so I thought I could take it off for a while."

But it's not even hot in here, and if so, why didn't you take off your sweater either?

"Okay...." I shrugged before digging into my pockets to check up on the gift. "Well either way, I think it's best if we..."

Huh? That's strange. I don't feel anything in my pockets but....oh no! I began looking all over in every pocket I can think of, but no matter what...I can't find it!

"Where is it?!" I asked, gaining the other's attention.

"What? What's wrong Kay?" Carrie asked in worried.

"I can't find my gift!" I exclaimed. "I had a gift that was meant for Ren's birthday when we arrive to Canterlot, but now it's gone!"

And cue the gasping while Ren looked at me with a shocked look.

"Wait...you got me a gift?" Ren asked, which made me realize that I forgot that Ren was in the room. Oh dear...oh well, there's no turning back now.

"Yes Ren, it's a good gift that I thought you might love." I nodded with a nervous smile. "I'm so sorry that I lost it."

Ren blinked in surprise before smiling softly at me and said "You don't need to apologize Kay, thanks for getting me a gift but I know that we'll find it!"

"Thanks." I nodded before making a serious look. "But that's not gonna stop me onto finding the culprit!"

"Wait, are you saying that you want to help find the culprit?" Kodi asked in surprise.

"Yeah! I mean, we can't forgive the culprit on eating Ren's birthday cake, right?" I reminded them. "That's why I wanna help."

"Seem like a reasonable explanation, darling." Rarity shrugged before I noticed something off with her mane.

"Rarity? Why is your mane all upsided like that?" I asked with a raised brow. Rarity widened her eyes in shock before chuckling nervously and replied "W-well you see...I thought I could try out a new mane-style."

"Okay..." Why do I have a strong suspicious feeling that she's lying? "Well either way, we need to investigate the murder, so just hold on!"

Me and Rosy immediately left the dessert car and headed back into our cabin room, which made the others looked at each other in confusion. I headed over to my closet since I settled my stuff here while the others were delivering the cake all the way to the dessert car, and I just happened to pack some good dresses and outfits that I packed up. Like Rarity would always say, always be prepared.

I took off my sweater and placed a detective overcoat along with a little hat with a red bow wrapped around it. As soon as I was done placing the clothes on, I placed a little detective hat that just fits Rosy's size and character.

"Meow!" Rosy meowed in joy, wagging her tail.

"I thought you might like it." I giggled. "I made it myself."

With that, me and Rosy walked out of our cabin and headed back inside of the dessert car with the others noticing my new attire. I was just wearing a light yellowish-pink detective overcoat and little hat. 

"Oh Kaede!" Ren exclaimed in shock.

"You look fab-ul-ous!"  Rarity gushed in excitement and awe. "I totally forgotten about that detective outfit that you made the other day!"

"Thanks everyone!" I bowed with a small smile.

"Good idea Kay!" Pinkie exclaimed, popping right in front of me with a bright smile. She immediately placed a Sherlock Holmes-like hat on her head and that thing that Sherlock Holmes uses to make bubbles...almost similar to smoking I guess. She then placed two more hats on both Jamie and Twilight's heads. "And as chief detective, that's exactly what I'm gonna do!"

"Uh, you're investigating?" Applejack questioned incredulously.

"Seriously?" Jack asked with a deadpanned look.

"Yes!" Pinkie nodded. "And Twilight and Jamie shall be me and Kay's lowly assistant who asks silly questions with obvious answers."

"But...wait what?" Jamie asked in confusion. "What does that even mean?"

"It means that you guys are gonna be answering some questions that Pinkie claims to be 'so obvious'." Nicole clarified. "But how does that help solve this case of the eaten birthday cake?"

"See? A perfect example of a perfect silly question, my dear Nikki." Pinkie patted her on the head, which she didn't mind. "Because the obvious answer is..."

"Yes?" Twilight questioned, raising a brow at her.

"No! 'Cause I know who did it!" We all stared at Pinkie with shocked and bewildered looks on our faces. 

"You do?!" Kodi gasped. "But how?!"

"Exactly, how could you have possibly know who the culprit is anyway?!" Jamie exclaimed in shock.

"How could I possibly not know? Clearly this dastardly deed was done by the baker, who knew their dessert could not measure up to the mastery of Ren's Marizpan Mascarpone Meringue Madness Birthday Cake. I guess you feared your eclairs lacked flair, Gustave!"

"Ex-squeeze me?!" Gustave exclaimed in shock.

"What?" Rantaro asked. "And how exactly did he even do it?"

"Easy! He knocked me out of my sleep and tied me to the railroad tracks, then started gloating before stealing Ren's 'MMMM' birthday cake and that's when he destroyed the cake by using a knife!" Pinkie explained, glaring towards Gustave. "Thus, destroying the cake and the Cakes'/Rennie's birthday party and chance of winning the National Dessert-Off!"

"That's crazy!" I exclaimed.

"And that's highly illogical." Nicole retorted bluntly. "How could you even be tied onto the railroad tracks?"

"Hmm..." Pinkie tapped her chin for a while before realizing that she had a point. "I guess you have a point."

"And plus, the cake wasn't sliced." Jamie pointed out, examining the cake. "You can tell by these marks. They were more like teeth marks rather than being sliced by a knife."

"Maybe he used his talons?" Gustave felt offended by that as he glared at Pinkie and exclaimed "Ex-squeeze me, Madam Pinkie? I've rather not used my talons for such a heinous crime that I did not commit!"

"Ah poopy." Pinkie pouted.

"Well that's disappointing." Rantaro scoffed. "Is this how you ponies who try to be detectives do? If so, then I am quite disappointed in you."

"But even so, if it wasn't Gustave, then who?" Carrie asked curiously.

"Hmm...guess that isn't a totally silly question." Pinkie muttered.

"They have good points Pinkie." I nodded before walking over and examining the cake. "It seems like whoever done it must've been pretty sneaky and must've done it while you weren't looking and when me and Rosy accidentally fell asleep."

"Wait, you and Rosy accidentally fell asleep while guarding the cake?" Kodi asked.

"Yeah...not one of my best moments." I chuckled nervously before looking back at the eaten cake. "But it has be someone who would sloppily eat Ren's cake."

"Yeah, but who?" Ren wondered.

"Hm...You're right, my fine fellow." Pinkie nodded in deep thought. "Gustave Le Grand is clearly in the clear."

"Well duh." Rantaro rolled his eyes but was silently nudged by Mason.

"Which means that Ren's birthday 'MMMM' cake was destroyed by another baker. A baker who's donuts are do-nots." Wait, where is she going with this? "That's right, it was Joe!"

We all gasped before turning our heads to a shocked Donut Joe as Pinkie began her story.

"Or as he's known in the spy world, Mane. Con Mane." Wait what? "He bypassed the laser system and even me, Kay, and Rosy from stealing Rennie's birthday 'MMMM' cake with his sleek and stealthiness. Crushing the Cakes' chances to win and Rennie's birthday bash party!" 

"Wait, is that some sort of reference to James Bond?" Ren thought aloud.

"Seriously?" Jack face-palmed. "What is it with you these bakers being crazy psychotic spies?"

"Once again, that is quite illogical." Nicole stated. "First off, how come there wasn't a laser system when we first came in here?"

"That's because there is no laser beam security system!" Twilight retorted. "And Joe is not sleek, stealthy Con Mane!" 

So technically, is he real?

"He's big, gruff, and messy!"

"Hey!" Donut Joe shouted in offense.

"Although, you would look rather dapper in a tuxedo." Rarity complimented.

"And maybe comb your mane a bit." I added. "But I still don't think that Donut Joe did it."

"Huh...You may be right, Kaede."

"May be? She is right!" Jamie exclaimed. "Everything you're saying is all illogical and ridiculous made by your crazy fantasies!"

"Did you just call my fantasies...crazy?" Pinkie asked, glaring at Jamie before sticking her tongue out in disgust. "Well I'll have you know that taking a closer look at these desserts...I see that one simply cannot look at me in the eye."

She gazed over at Mulia Mild's chocolate covered Mousse with a suspicious look.

"Pinkie...that moose is a mousse!" Twilight pointed out.

"Yes, and the mule behind the moose panicked when she saw the mastery of Rennie's birthday 'MMMM' cake."

"So..." Jamie raised a brow in confusion. "You're telling us all that the culprit is..."

"Mulia Mild!" Pinkie pointed over to the mule, who widened her eyes in shock and panicked.

"W-w-what?!" Mulia exclaimed. "What on Equestria are you talking about?!"

"Well you see-"

"No!" Jamie yelled, surprising us all. "It is not! Everything you are about to say is ridiculous Pinkie Pie! I am sorry but we need a better investigation than just accusing everypony! That'll only create distrust in the group! Unless we find some evidence and gain some testimonies and alibis from the others, we will be able to find out who eaten Ren's birthday cake!"

....Oh my god. I never saw Jamie this confident before. We all just stared at him with a shocked look as he realized that he was feeling confident before returning to his meek self.

"U-uhh....I-I was just saying..." Jamie twiddled with his fingers, feeling scared of the attention he was receiving.

"Man Jamie, you used your hidden strength again." Ren stated with a surprise look before smiling over him. "I gotta say that you aren't so bad."

"T-thank you..." Jamie blushed in embarrassment.

"Anyway..." I called. "It's best if we all calm down and try to figure out the situation. After all, like Jamie stated that we can't solve this mystery of the missing cake by accusing everyone. We all need to trust and believe in each other and until we have enough evidence and find out the culprit, we need to create doubts on that person in order to pursue the truth."

"And another moving speech." Rantaro rolled his eyes. "Jeez, what is this? Beautiful speech day or something? Can we just solve the damn mystery and move on?"

"So how do you think that we can find the culprit?" Kodi asked in worried.

"Saying that makes me think that you're the culprit." Rantaro shrugged, which made Kodi widened his eyes in shock. Before he could say anything, Ren intervened and said "I know that Kodiak wouldn't do that! I was with him all night and I was sleeping with him, so that shouldn't be a problem."

Everyone looked at him before gazing at Kodiak, who nodded and said "Yeah, Ren's grip is quite tight."

We all let out 'Ahh' upon hearing that.

"Well anyway, do you think you four can solve the mystery?" Carrie asked curiously. 

"I know we can!" I nodded with a determined look. "Right now, we need to figure out who done it."

"Who did it." Oh right...

"But I was sure that it was one of the other bitter bakers that destroyed Ren's birthday 'MMMM' cake." Pinkie walked over to the half-eaten cake with a sad look. "That way, their delicious dessert would reign supreme." 

"Well the rest of their desserts do taste good." I said, licking my lips.

"Meow!" Rosy nodded.

"I know, right?" Pinkie grinned before gazing at Donut Joe's Donutopia. "I mean, just look at Joe's Donutopia. It's a spectacular city of donutty delight, topped temptingly in sprinklicious sprinkles." She then turned to over to Gustave Le Grand's Eclairs. "And Gustave's éclairs look incredibly edible, with glistening glaziness." And finally, she turned to Mulia Mild's Mousse Mouse. "But then there's Mulia Mild's Mousse Moose. Ahh...why, this mouth-wateringly marvelous mousse moose tempts the taste buds with its silky, smooth, yummy-nummy, chocolateyness."

"True, true, and true..." Jamie nodded before asking the one remaining question. "So why did the criminal devour the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness while leaving this trio of tasty treats untouched? If so, then it would make one of us a suspect."

"I guess you have a point." I nodded. "But me and Rosy have alibis since I went to use the bathroom."

"I can testify." Rantaro shrugged nonchalantly. "I bumped into her after I was around in the bathroom."

"You?" Applejack asked incredulous. 

"Yes, and don't bother accusing me, I'm telling the truth." Rantaro sighed.

"So I guess..." Carrie looked around with a worried look. "I guess one of us, except the chefs, might've done it..."

That would be the point, but the question is...who? But before I could say anything...

The whole room went into darkness and we couldn't see anything.

"AHHH! WHO TURN OUT THE LIGHTS?!" 

"Relax, it's just the lights."

"W-we must've entered a tunnel so we should be able to see again in about a minute, so we should stay calm. Besides, this is j-just a b-basic thing..."

Suddenly, we began hearing munching sounds, much to my confusion. As soon as the lights came back on the moment we got out of the tunnel, we all gasped in horror upon seeing the other desserts.

They were all...devoured! Almost every bit of them were taken apart!

"Now we have no idea who do-doned it!" Pinkie exclaimed in shock, horror, and disappointment.

I patted Pinkie on the back with a warm and determined smile before saying "Don't worry Pinkie Pie, I'm sure there's gotta be a way to solve this mystery."

Pinkie smiled back at me while Ren looked around at the other desserts.

"Oh man, this mystery is getting more mysterious every minute we stand here." He sighed. 

"Well, first thing we have to do..." Jamie turned to Pinkie with a slightly serious look. "Pinkie, you need to stop your wild accusations and get to the truth." He turned to everyone else. "Everyone, please go back to your cars while we do a little investigating, but Jack and Mason...could you two perhaps stay here and guard the doors in hopes no one tries to forge evidence."

"I see why not." Mason nodded.

"Heh, ya can leave it to us." Jack grinned, wrapping his arm around Mason, which made him smile.

"Oh..." Nicole spoke up with a curious look on her face. "Before we leave, may I ask everyone something? What do you all think of this scene?"

What? What was Nicole saying?

"Huh?" I asked her in confusion. "Well it's really terrible."

"And awful." Ren sighed. "I never thought someone would eat my birthday cake like this. But then again, it was good and delicious."

"Awful." Kodi added.

"Meh." Rantaro rolled his eyes.

"What are you saying? It's just crazy!" Rainbow exclaimed.

Nicole eyed everyone before looking away and began walking off, much to our confusion.

"She's gone." Ren said in surprise. "Well that was strange..."

"Yeah, why would she run off like that?" Fluttershy asked.

"What you expect? She doesn't want to be involved with any of our crap as always." Jack scoffed.

"It's...best if we just move on and take our leave." Rarity suggested, which the others nodded in agreement as they began to take their leave, all except Mason and Jack as they stood by the entrance of the dessert car to keep sight of any intruder breaking into the dessert car to manipulate the crime scene or maybe forge evidence.

"Good!" Jamie nodded before walking over and switching Pinkie's hat with Twilight's. "Now then, we need to really solve this mystery, and do that, we need to find some clues and gain some testimonies."

"I think we can help with that." I smiled with a determined look. "Me and Pinkie have been here for the whole night...Well maybe not the whole night because I left the dessert car to go and used the bathroom."

"Interesting..." Twilight nodded, feeling intrigued by this story. "Did you happen to find anything strange when you went exploring the bathroom?"

"Well I did bumped into Rantaro, and he didn't feel like wasting his time with talking with me, per usual." I made a scowl, remembering his rudeness from earlier.

"You've...bumped into Rantaro?" Jamie questioned.

"Well yes." I nodded before asking "Hey wait, are you thinking that he might be the culprit or somehow connected to this mystery?"

"That seems likely." Jamie nodded. "But due to his status for his reputation, you would think that it wouldn't be so sloppy judging by these bite marks..." Jamie examined the cake before noticing something. "Strange...quite strange indeed."

"Huh? Did you find something?" I asked him, walking over to Ren's ruined birthday cake.

"Look at this." He pointed over to one side of the cake, seeing two pieces were off the side that was barely bitten. "This side looks  a little bit was taken off...like it was snitched off properly."

"What does that mean?" Pinkie asked curiously. Jamie didn't respond back as he rubbed his chin in thought. Huh, you know that I normally see him so meek, shy, and nervous all the time but seeing him this serious and focus is quite a surprising turn of events. Then again, he is a mystery novelist and wrote plenty of mystery novels.

"Well anyway..." Twilight turned to Pinkie as she asked "Pinkie, could you explain to me what have you and Kaede been doing at the scene of the crime all night?"

"Huh?! You're not accusing me, are you?!" 

"What? No!" Twilight shook her head. "But maybe you or Kaede must've saw something that will help us."

"Good idea. Could you two provide some testimony to us?" Jamie asked us.

"Yeah!" I nodded before I began to go through my testimony. "Like I said before, I went to go and use the bathroom, but when I exited out, I could've sworn that me and Rosy bumped into someone but we couldn't tell who considering it was way too dark till I was pushed by Pinkie Pie, who accused me of eating the cake but when I proved my point that I told her that I went to go and use the bathroom, she believed me and guard the cake while me and Rosy accidentally fell asleep."

"I see..." Jamie nodded, rubbing his chin. "Now Pinkie, would you care to share the story with us?"

"Okie-dokie-lokie!" Pinkie nodded with an eager smile. She then began to lead us over to the spot she went to guard the cake. "You see, when Kay went over to use the bathroom, I saw a silhouette in the moonlight!"

"Good...let's retrace your steps." Twilight suggested. Pinkie began leading us out of the dessert car and threw the caboose. 

"And then I chase the culprit down the train towards the caboose, but when I got there, he was gone." Pinkie explained. 

"I see..." Hopefully there's a clue around here somewhere.

"Meow!" Huh? I looked over to see Rosy holding onto a piece of blue feather in her mouth. 

"Oh Rosy! Good job girl!" I smiled happily before scratching her on the head and picking up the piece of evidence that we found.

"Amazing! Our first clue!" Twilight shouted in amazement.

"Yep and I think that we might've found our first culprit." I said, nodding in agreement.

"Hold on, who is it? Who?!" Pinkie pleaded, eager to know what we found.

"Just wait Pinkie and you'll find out soon." I assured, placing it into my coat. "Hopefully that maybe one of the culprits might have my gift."

"What was that?" Twilight asked, not hearing what I said. 

"Oh nothing." I waved it off before allowing Rosy to hop back onto my shoulder. "Come on, let's continue the investigation."

"Okay." The others nodded before we began walking  around as Pinkie continued on with her testimony.

"Next, I heard somepony else in the dessert car and chased them up to the engine." We headed over to the front of the room, finding the conductor shoveling some coal into the engine. "But when I got there, all I saw was the conductor shoveling coal like right now."

She pointed over to the conductor, who noticed us and waved hello to us with a smile before resuming back to his work.

"The conductor, huh?" Jamie rubbed his chin before noticing something over near the coal. He ran over to it and immediately picked it up, finding a piece of pink hair on the floor. "Strange..."

"Wait...pink hair?" I widened my eyes upon realizing who would have that! So that means...there are two culprits!"

"This doesn't make any sense..." Jamie muttered before turning to Pinkie and asked "What happened next, Pinkie?"

"Well..." She began to lead us out of the conductor's room before returning back to the dessert car. "I went back to the dessert car."

"Yes?"  Pinkie looked over to the curtains before pointing out "And the curtains mysteriously closed, all on their own?"

"Interesting." Twilight nodded, intrigued by this. "Anything else?"

"I heard hoofsteps, a loud thud..." She jumped onto the floor, creating a loud thud in the process.

THUD!

"Like that and they were gone! When I opened the curtains, I saw that the portrait by the door all crooked."

"It was?" I asked in surprise before looking over to investigating the portrait that Pinkie mentioned. As I looked around, Rosy let out another meow as she pointed over something next to it. "Hmm...hello, what's this?"

"What did you find, Kaede?" Twilight asked curiously. I showed both Jamie and Twilight a pair of fake eyelashes. 

"These are fake eyelashes, well...just one of them. One of my friends back home once owned one of these to make herself look good for prom night." I giggled, remembering that time. 

"I see." Jamie nodded before forming a small smirk. "And I have a feeling I know who's our culprit is...well our third and hopefully, our final culprit."

"I hope so..." I sighed before remembering a little something from earlier. "Actually...there's one more place that I wished to investigate."

"Huh? Really?" Twilight asked in surprise.

"Yes, so Pinkie..." I turned to her with a soft smile and asked "Do you mind if you continued more of your story?"

"Sure can, Kay!" Pinkie nodded, saluting to me with her tongue sticking out. Oh Pinkie...

We began moving over out of the dessert car, passing by Jack and Mason as we walked through the hallway where I bumped into someone or something last night.

"I tried catching the culprit during the dark, but when after seeing the portrait by the door being all creaky, that's when I pounced on Kay and Rosy and interrogated them to know if they ate Ren's birthday 'MMMM' cake, but they told me the truth!" 

"Yeah, just like that." I got on my knees and looked around the place, trying to look for any possible clues before noticing a nearby room, Mason's cabin room for the night. Curiously, I walked inside of there and looked around it before noticing something underneath the sheets. Hmm...

The moment I uncovered the sheets...

"Ah!" The moment I saw it...it was some evidence....evidence that could him as the culprit. 

"Did you find anything in there Kaede?" Jamie called over.

"Yeah..." I replied before placing it in my coat pockets before exiting out of Mason and Carrie's cabin room. "And it looks like we gotten four culprits."

"What?!" Pinkie gasped. "Who? What? When? Why? How?"

"E-easy Pinkie!" Jamie assured before turning to me. "Now Kaede, did you say that you might've find any evidence that could pinpoint another possible culprit?"

"Indeed and I'll present it once we assembled everyone into the dessert car..." I said with a bright smile. "And don't worry, I know who are the culprits judging by the evidence we've gathered so far." I raised my hand and pointed at them with a smirk. "The truth is stranger than fiction!"

Twilight, Pinkie, and Jamie blinked in confusion. 

"...What?" They all asked, causing me to sweat-drop while Rosy groaned. Oh come on, I've heard of that line before in some anime detective game. What? You all don't think that I don't have any hobbies like Ren, do ya? 

"...Let's just round everyone up."



Later
As soon as we rounded everyone up from the caboose, we began to discuss the over and saw the worried, fear, and calm looks on their faces.

"Why are we all here again?" Mulia Mild asked, stuttering in fear.

"Now then, you're all probably wondering why you're all brought over?" Carrie raised her hand in the air. "Yes Carrie?"

"Is it because you want to figure out who eaten Ren's cake?" I nodded and answered "Why yes Carrie, and after a while during our investigation...we stumbled upon several evidences that could lead us to the culprit."

"No way!" Jack exclaimed. "Are you saying that you guys know who did it?!"

"Yes indeed." I nodded with a serious look on my face. 

"Wow, they're good." Donut Joe whispered to Ren, who nodded in agreement.

"We have discovered the true culprit of this cake carnage." Jamie added.

"But how?" Gustave Le Grand asked in confusion.

"That's amazing!" Ren exclaimed in awe. "So you know who did it? Who eaten the 'MMMM' cake?"

"Well, you see, when committing a crime, it's crucial that one never leaves behind clues..." Jamie explained, walking back and forth. "No matter how many times the culprit does it, they will always leave some evidence behind. Do you know what I'm talking about, Kaede?"

"Yes Jamie." I nodded before showing taking one of the pieces of evidence that we found during the investigation. "They weren't even leave obvious clues like...this!"

Take That!

The moment I showed them the cyan-colored feather, everyone gasped.

"A-ha! A blue feather! I knew it was you, Gustave Le Grand!"

Pinkie glared at Gustave Le Grand, who was bewildered by this.

"Pinkie, Gustave doesn't have blue feathers." Jamie pointed out. "his feathers are light gray and dark arctic bluish gray."

"Oh...well maybe he dyed it?" I face-palmed a bit upon seeing Pinkie still accusing one of the chefs.

"No! Not him!" I shook my head as I began my explanation. "You see, when you were saying about chasing after the suspect through the caboose, they suddenly disappeared?"

"That's because they flew away!" Jamie deduced. "But the thief did leave a little something behind, yes?"

"Yep, and the culprit is..." I pointed my finger towards..."You! Rainbow Dash!"

Once again, everyone gasped in shock as Rainbow Dash started sweating nervously.

"I-I don't even like cake!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

"But I saw you eating cake the other day." Kodi pointed out, much to Rainbow Dash's embarrassment and anger.

"So Rainbow Dash did it!" Pinkie gasped before smirking in delight. "Case solved!"

"Case not solved." Twilight shook her head. "Because when we went to the engine, Jamie saw something beneath the coal."

"Yes, and inside of the coal was...this!"

Take that!

Jamie presented the strand of pink hair he found, which made Pinkie glare at Rainbow Dash!

"So it was you! That pink hair came from your rainbow-colored mane!" 

"I don't have pink in my mane, Pinkie!" Rainbow retorted.

"She's right." Nicole stated. "Rainbow doesn't have the color pink."

"...So you're wearing a wig?" Pinkie guessed before trying to stretch out Rainbow Dash's hair, much to her anger.

"Ow! Cut it out!" Rainbow exclaimed, pushing her off.

"Pinkie, remember?" Jamie called. "You chased a pony to the engine, where you thought you saw the conductor shoveling coal, but that wasn't the conductor at all."

"No...it was..." I pointed my finger towards..."You! Fluttershy!"

Everyone gasped once again before looking over at Fluttershy, who looks around in embarrassment and guilt.

"Oh my..." Fluttershy muttered.

"Flutters...you?" Ren asked in surprise. "I can't believe it."

"I'm sorry Ren." Fluttershy apologized.

"Oh, you're going down, Fluttershy!" Pinkie tried to pounce at her but was held back by Twilight as she used her magic to stop Pinkie from hurting Fluttershy while Ren stood by to protect her, showing off his Hacking Gun in the hands.

"Pinkie!" Twilight scolded. "But then another clue confounded my suspicions. You were guarding the cake when the curtains mysteriously closed. But that's no mystery, that's magic. But when the thief tried to make their great escape, they left a little addition to the portrait."

"Oh right!" I gasped, realizing what Twilight was talking about.

Take that!

I presented the fake eyelids in my hands, which made everyone confused.

"A pair of fake eyelashes?" Rantaro questioned. 

"That's right! Which begs the question for us..." I turned to the third culprit with a smirk on my face. "Has anyone else noticed that Rarity is wearing her hair rather differently today?"

Rarity gasped before glaring at me and exclaimed "Kaede darling, how could you? What? Is it a crime to change one's style now and again? Why, I think it's a crime not to."

"Really?" Twilight asked, raising a brow before using her magic to lift Rarity's hair, revealing that one of her eyelashes went missing and that was all the proof we needed.

"Alright fine, I'm guilty!" Rarity cried out. "I wear false eyelashes!"

"Umm...we know that." Kodi blinked in surprise. 

"We were talking about you eating the cake." Jamie added.

"Oh, and I took a bite of the cake." Well that was much easier than I thought.

"Oh, well case closed then." Pinkie shrugged.

"No, it's not over yet." I shook my head before I began walking back and forth with a thoughtful look on my face. "You see, there are three mysteries that hasn't been solved yet. One, who eaten the three other competitor's desserts? Second, what ever happened to my present for Ren? And third, who did me and Rosy bumped into when we left the bathroom?"

"Those are good questions and I take it it's the evidence that you found in one of the cabin rooms, correct?" Jamie asked, which I nodded.

"Exactly, and I think Rarity didn't do it alone. I think she had an accomplice by her side." Rarity gulped in fear and began chuckling nervously.

"W-what ever do you mean, Kaede darling? I took a bite of the cake alone." I shook my head before turning to her with a serious look and said "I'm afraid not. For you see, one side of the cake looked like it was cut properly despite half of the cake looked like it was taken bites with teeth marks on it. So it begs the question...who did it? And the answer to that question on who the culprit is..."

Everyone felt tensed, calm, and worried as they wondered who Rarity worked. Only one person places their faith and trust to her, that one person that could be....

"It has to be you!" I pointed my finger towards the fourth and final culprit who has eaten the cake. "Mason Hunter!"

Everyone widened their eyes before gazing at Mason, who seemed pretty calm as he crossed his arms and questioned "Oh? Me?"

"Big brother helped Rarity out with her crime as well?" Carrie asked in surprise.

"Indeed, and I have the evidence! See?" I presented the one evidence towards them and it was none other than Mason's scarf alone.

"That? His scarf?" Jack questioned in a deadpanned look. "How is that evidence?"

"If you used your brain, then maybe it would make sense." Rantaro scoffed, ignoring the angry glare that was sent by him. "We ever rarely see him take off that damn scarf around his neck, and it looks pretty clean, meaning that it could be possibly that if he had helped Rarity, then that would mean that he could've gotten cake stains on it and must've cleaned it up to hide the evidence."

"...Hmm, a wonderful deduction." Mason smiled a bit. "But you have no proof considering that it's clean?"

"Actually, I do." I nodded before turning to Ren. "Ren, do you think that you can use your Hacking Gun's Detect mode on it."

"Umm...sure, Kay." Ren nodded before pulling out his gun and used 'Detect' on the scarf, finding visible stains on it. 

"And there you have it!" I said, pointing over to one of the stains. "That would mean that Mason must've accidentally gotten some cake stains on it while he and Rarity were making their get away while dropping the eyelashes and bumping into me, getting cake smudges on them."

"No way!" Rainbow exclaimed.

"Yes, and so allow me to explain everything that occurred last night." 




Closing Argument

You see, it all began when me and Pinkie Pie were guarding Ren's birthday 'MMMM' cake, and while we stayed in the dessert car throughout the night, I decided to go to the bathroom but that's when I bumped into Rantaro, who just left and felt annoyed onto talking to me as well as wasting his time. While I headed into the bathroom, Pinkie was confronted with the first culprit and managed to escape her by flying away to the top of the caboose unnoticed, but left behind a blue feather on the caboose. 

Next, when Pinkie returned back to the dessert car, she encountered the second culprit from eating Ren's birthday 'MMMM' cake and chased after them, but soon lost them upon reaching the engine room. However, what she didn't noticed that the second culprit disguised themselves as the conductor to fool Pinkie's eyes, but before long, she left a strand of their pink mane hair in the engine room, blowing towards the pack of coal on the floor. 

When Pinkie walked back to the dessert car, the curtains mysterious closed like Pinkie stated. However, that was the work of the third and fourth culprit as the former used her magic to closed the curtains while the latter managed to grabbed two slices perfectly with their bare hands and managed to get away from the scene, but not before long was that I bumped into the said culprits, resulting with the four culprit getting some cake smudges on their scarf. Luckily, both he and the third culprit escaped the scene with the cake pieces. 

While I was being interrogated by Pinkie, the culprits cleaned off the third culprit's scarf to hide the evidence, but if we haven't found those pieces of evidences, then none of us would found out that it was you four...

Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Mason Hunter!




"Well....I see." Mason sighed before forming a small smile on his face. "It would seem that I have been caught. So much for that effort..."

"It's quite alright Mason." Rarity sighed. "It's my fault for dragging you into this mess in the first place. After all, I couldn't resist that cake flavor."

"Me too." Fluttershy nodded.

"Aw nuts, me three." Rainbow sighed.

"I guess because the cake was too delicious to eat, eh?" Ren chuckled. "It would make sense considering Pinkie described how delicious it tastes that even I couldn't withstand it."

"And it looked so tasty." Kodi licked his lips.

"And I couldn't help but help Rarity because I was curious to see how tasty it was." Mason smiled a bit.

"And boy it was!" Rainbow laughed.

"We only meant to take a little, lady-like bite." Rarity sighed.

"And it was so good." Fluttershy added.

"Yeah, I just dove right in!" Rainbow smiled. The four cake eating culprits looked at each other with sad looks before sighing and looking at Ren and Pinkie.

"But...I'm really really sorry." 

"Terribly sorry." 

"Sorry, Pinkie."

"I am sorry if we ruined your cake, Ren."

Ren softly smiled at them before saying "Hey it's okay you guys. I understand why you would eat my cake, but overall, this was probably one of the most exciting things I ever done on my birthday."

"Well..." Fluttershy chuckled. "I'm glad you liked it, Ren."

"Same here." Mason nodded, along with Rarity and Rainbow Dash. 

"That's okay." Pinkie smiled. "But I'm confused, why weren't you wearing the scarf after you cleaned it off, Mason?"

"Well..." Mason blushed a bit. "Rarity told me not to wear it even after it was ruined."

"Seriously?" Rantaro questioned in a deadpanned tone.

"Well obviously! It would ruin Mason's image!" Rarity retorted in a huff. "I mean, who wears a clean long sleeve red scarf after it was smudged with cake smudges, even they were clean."

"T-that's enough Rarity, thank you." Mason sighed. "But either way, I admit my guilt. I am sorry."

"No, it's okay Mason. You and the others are forgiven." I assured.

"At least this mystery is finally solved." Pinkie sighed in relief.

"Not quite." Jamie shook his head. "We may have figured out who ate the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness, but we still don't know who devoured the other bakers' goods."

"You're right, Jamie!" Pinkie gasped before asking "You know what we have to do?"

"Well...yes, I do. Do you?"

"Duh! Look for clues!" Pinkie rolled her eyes.

"Umm...if I may interrupt..." Huh? We all looked over at Nicole, who had a curious look on her face. "If you want, I can help out since I already know who did it."

"You did?!" I gasped in shock, along with Rosy. "But how?"

"Remember when I asked you all earlier before you started your investigation?" Nicole reminded us. "When you all answered my question, I observed how you all react, and after some careful studying of you all, I deduced who eaten each of the competitor's desserts."

"Only by simply asking one question?!" Mulia Mild exclaimed in shock.

"Yes, ma'am." Nicole nodded. "You see, the ones who had eaten the baker's desserts' themselves were....you three bakers all along."

We all gasped in shock, unable to believe that the bakers' would eaten their own desserts.

"Why you're all thinking 'how could you tell'? Well first, Mr. Gustave has mousse in his mustache. And Mr. Joe has eclair in his hair, and Ms. Mulia has sprinkles in her wrinkles."

"Hey, all of that rhymed!" Pinkie smiled before frowning at Nicole. "And hey! You stole my lines!"

"Sorry." Nicole apologized. "But I have great observation skills, so please believe me. I sense that you all are having doubts in my skills."

"Well that's quite shocking." Mason said, blinking in surprise.

"Hmm...." Pinkie examined Gustave Le Grand, Mulia Mild, and Donut Joe on the places that Nicole stated before looking at us with a shocked look. "She's right!"

"Damn, for a psychologist, she's good." Jack muttered, loud enough for the rest of us to hear and nodded in agreement.

"Well, I guess that we can take her word." Jamie said before turning to the bakers and asked "But why would you guys eat your own desserts in the first place?

The three bakers began to feel guilty before turning to one another and began apologizing.

"Oh, I am so sorry, Mulia, but Pinkie made your mousse moose sound...tres magnifique." Gustave grinned.

"And Pinkie's description of your eclairs really did make them sound scrumptious." Donut Joe smiled softly.

"And the way she spoke of your Donutopia, ohhh, was too delectable to resist." Mulia Mild sighed happily just thinking about it.

"So in the end, the reason was simple: You guys just couldn't resist the sweet taste of any of your desserts." Rantaro shrugged. "If I was a judge, I would give you guys '0 out of 10' for not resisting such goodness."

"Well either way, at least we solved the mystery." I smiled before remembering one mystery. "Well...almost."

"Oh right, your present for Ren's birthday." Twilight said, remembering about that. 

"Yeah...I still haven't figured out where my gift is." I sighed sadly before being comforted by Ren as he gave me a soft smile.

"It's alright." Ren assured. "What's more important is that you guys are here and that's all I need."

I smiled over at Ren with a soft smile and replied "Thanks Ren. I really appreciate that."

"Well..." Rantaro smirked at me. "Gotta say, you're quite good solving this mystery."

"Well Jamie, Twilight, and Pinkie did help out on the mystery." I chuckled. 

"Whatever, maybe you weren't a waste of my time." Rantaro smirked before he began to take his leave. He glanced towards me with a small smile before taking his leave while I watched with a confused look on my face. Rantaro will always remain unanimous to us all.

"Hm?" I then felt something in my pockets before taking out whatever it was, and once I did..."AH! Could it be?!"

It was my gift, and it was all safe and sound! 

"What?! It was in your pockets this whole time?!" Ren exclaimed in shock. "When?...How?!"

"I...I don't know." I shook my head before looking over to see Rantaro glancing at me with a small smirk with Gizmo waving his paw at me with a smile before the two exited out of the dessert car. Oh you....

"Well, I guess that solves the mystery of where your present went." Mason patted me on the back.

"Yeah! That kinda seems pretty amazing yet shocking that he had it." Carrie added.

"True to that." Jack nodded.

"Well either way, I'm just glad that I have it back." I smiled happily before turning to Ren and handed it to him. "By the way, this is for you Ren. Happy Birthday, Ren!"

"Oh, thanks Kay!" He laughed before receiving the gift from me as he slowly began opening it.

"What was it? What is it? What is it?!" Kodi asked, getting all excited onto knowing what it was.

"It's..." The moment he opened it, he gasped in awe. "A bunch of cookies! And a whole pack of them!"

It was true. I baked them myself just late last night and boy, it was so worth it. Ren seemed to enjoy and they were chocolate chip, just like he wants it. He shared them with some of his friends, even Kodiak, and they were joyed by it.

"Ooh! There's gotta be like fifty in this bag!" Ren exclaimed in excitement before turning to me and said "Thanks Kaede!"

I giggled at his compliment before saying "Ahh thanks Ren, it's nothing."

Ren nodded before handing me one, much to my surprise. He gave me a smile, which I nodded before receiving it and taking a bite of it. Mmm, it taste so good just how my mom makes them. My original mother anyway...

"Well this is the greatest birthday gift ever!" Kodi laughed.

"Hey Kay, think you can cook up more of those cookies?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"You bet I can!" I clapped my hands together with an eager smile on my face

"Well that's great to hear!" Pinkie grinned.

"While we enjoy this scene..." Gustave and the other two chefs looked at each other with worried and guilty looks. "How are we supposed to present our own desserts to the Dessert-off if we don't even have any desserts to share out?"

"Hmm..." Pinkie rubbed her chin in thought before forming a smirk on her face. "I think we can fix that. Come on!"

With that, she rounded up the barely recognizable desserts that were in the dessert car as she began to mess around with each of the desserts. 

"I see, so that's what she's doing!" Carrie said in awe. "We're gonna be combining them together!"

"Seems that way." Mason shrugged.

"Yep-a-doodles!" Pinkie smiled brightly. "Come on!"

We all looked at each other and nodded with smiles on our faces, eager to try this out and see where this will go. You know, I am quite excited that Ren liked my gift very much, despite it being just a bunch of snacks that I wrapped around in a present, but it was worth it. I'm just happy to see him smiling along with the others.



Meanwhile
"There you are."

Nicole was seen at the cabin caboose, looking over at Rantaro as he was seen leaning against the wall. He glanced over to her with an annoyed grunt and asked "What is it? Can't get used to me leaving by?"

"...I was wondering...why?" Rantaro raised a brow at her before realizing what she meant by that.

"Oh that? Meh, I just felt like messing with her. It was worth seeing her panicking over just a gift." Rantaro took out his phone and looked over it with a smile. 

"So it was just a game?" Nicole questioned, which made Rantaro scoffed "Yeah, so?"

"...You are certainly quite a strange person." Nicole glanced away from him. "You seemed to enjoy messing around people. Just...why? I know that you aren't always like this since your childhood."

Rantaro froze before glaring at Nicole, hearing her mention that. It would make sense considering that she can observe with her keen eyes.

"How?"

"I was just saying." Nicole looked over her iPad. "I know that you aren't always like this since you are a child. Maybe if we talk this out..."

"Forget it. Besides, I could tell ya for 1,000,000 bits?" Rantaro smirked at her, but she knew through that smirk she sensed his anger and frustration through it.

"....Never mind. Just pretend this conversation never happened." Nicole then began to walk away, not eager to talk with him anymore.

"Then what's the point? Why bother talking to me?" Nicole stopped in her tracks before glancing at him and replied "...Because I was curious, that's all."

"Huh?" Rantaro raised a brow at her before she began to take her leave. He looked at her for a while before scoffing. Gizmo looked at him with a worried look, cooing in concern. "Nothing's wrong bud, let's just go."

With that, Rantaro began taking his leave and headed back to his room, not eager or enthusiastic about the dessert-off. Not even after talking with Nicole...



Later
You know, after today on solving the mystery of Ren's birthday 'MMMM' cake and the other competitor's desserts, I learned something today or well, me and Pinkie learned something today as a matter of fact.

Pinkie learned that it's not good to jump to conclusions. You have to find out all the facts before saying somepony did something. If you don't, you could end up blaming somepony for something they never did. This could hurt their feelings, and it can make you look really foolish. So from now on, she will always make sure to get all the facts.

I learned that no matter who's being accused and if you don't know who really done it, you gotta have faith in them while also doubting them. You have to believe in your friends, even when you're doubting them if they did it or not. Belief without doubt, as yI would say.

Soon after we arrived to Canterlot for the national Dessert-off, we were finished up with our dessert/Ren's cake. Apparently, it was all mixed up together into something beautiful and awe-looking at the same time. We brought over to the Garden sanctuary on Canterlot Castle, and by the time we presented it, Princess Celestia came by and was awe-struck by the structure as she eyed on the cake with hungry eyes. Oh wow, I don't think I ever see Princess Celestia like this before.

"Yep! It's my birthday cake and we made it...together!" Ren grinned. 

"I see...happy birthday Ren Loodan." Princess Celestia bowed before looking over at the cake. "You don't mind if I taste it?"

"Sure! After all, it's for everyone!" Ren nodded with a grin. We all felt excited and pumped by it, but before any of us could even reach for it...

Pinkie beat it to us first and boy, she ate the entire thing in just one gulp. 

We all just stood there dumbfounded while Pinkie rubbed her stomach. 

"Mmmmmm..." Pinkie sighed while the rest of us just laughed while some just felt pissed off and disappointed by the turn of events.

"Dammit..." Jack muttered.

"Don't worry, I still have those cookies." Ren said, showing them the cookies that I gave to him as a birthday present.

"Well don't mind if I do!" Jack toothily grinned before grabbing five cookies from the bag while the rest of us took one each and enjoyed eating it. Mm-hmm, yep! They taste so good!

"I gotta say..." Princess Celestia smiled in delight upon tasting one of the cookies. "These cookies taste so good."

"You can thank Kaede for that! She was the one who made them!" Carrie smiled.

"Oh really?" Princess Celestia turned to me with a soft grin. "Well I must say that you are quite a wonderful cook, Kaede."

"O-oh...!" I blushed a bit in embarrassment before looking away and said "Well it was nothing! Honest!"

"Well you are truly a good cook." Princess Celestia nodded before looking over at Jack, Rantaro, and Nicole. "And you three must be the new humans that have appeared here in Equestria?"

"Yes your highness." Nicole nodded.

"You bet." Jack gave her a thumbs-up while Rantaro leaned against the wall with a bored look.

"Meh, I've seen better royalty than you." Rantaro scoffed, earning a glare from Twilight herself.

"Rantaro!" Twilight scolded.

"What? I'm just saying." Rantaro shrugged before looking over at the Equestrian princess. "But I gotta say, it's an honor to meet you, your majesty."

"Quite." Princess Celestia bowed. "You must be Rantaro Wilde, Twilight told me a lot about you. She mentioned that you were known for being a criminal called  the 'Shadow Broker', correct?"

"Meh, I don't let my reputation get the best of me." Rantaro shrugged. "But you know, I can get you another piece of cake for you to enjoy...if you share all of your treasures with me."

Princess Celestia giggled at that offer before replying "Thanks for the offer but I'm afraid that I have to decline."

"Meh, you're lost. Besides, you idiots are already wasting five minutes of my time." Rantaro took his leave before waving off and heading out of the garden party.

"Should we go after him?" Mason questioned.

"Nah, just leave him or-"

"He'll just tired us out with his annoying price offers? Am I right?" Nicole guessed, knowing what Jack was saying.

"Y-yeah...that."

"I don't know, I wished that he could celebrate my birthday with me." Ren said, feeling bad for him. Fluttershy patted him on the back with a soft smile and said "Don't worry Ren, I'm sure that he'll come back and spend time with us."

Ren smiled back at her and nodded. I looked between the two with a heartfelt grin, seeing how close those two are. You know, Ren's lucky to have an optimistic view onto being in the present and looking forward for the future while I still felt like I was trapped in the present. I just wished...I could do anything to help those around me. I don't want to feel useless...I wanna be someone who can help encourage others.

"You know, solving that mystery was quite fascinating." Jamie smiled softly. "I feel like I have some inspiration onto writing another book."

"Of course you would." Rainbow rolled her eyes with annoyed grunt. "Eggheads..."

"That's great to hear!" Twilight smiled happily. "You know, if you and Kaede haven't worked with me and Pinkie Pie, then we wouldn't have figured out who eaten Ren's birthday cake."

"Oh yeah...I guess you have a point there." I smiled.

"Meow!" Rosy nuzzled my cheek, causing me to scratch her behind the ears before I pet her down next to Kodiak, who began playing around with her as she was enjoying it.

"Oh? A mystery?" Princess Celestia questioned. Me, Twilight, Pinkie, and Jamie looked at each other before giving her grins as I rubbed the back of my hair and said "Well...it's sorta a long story."

"Well I see why not." Princess Celestia smiled softly at us. "We got some time after all."

"O-okay P-Princess Celestia." Oh, I guess Jamie reverted back to his old self. Oh well, he was quite serious onto solving the mystery. But you know, it would be nice discussing what happened during our train adventure to the princess, we might even tell her about what we learned during our investigation on the mystery on the missing birthday cake.

"Y-you know, you might like the story. I have been thinking u-using that e-experience for a new book..." Jamie smiled softly.

"Really?!" Pinkie asked excitedly. "What is it?! Who are the characters?!"

"I-I haven't even gotten that part yet!" Jamie exclaimed before blushing a bit. "But I did came up with both the plot of the story as well as the name."

"Really? What's it called then?" I asked curiously.

"I call it..." He gave us a soft and determined smile. "Detective Sherry And The Mystery on the Friendship Express."

"Hmm...catchy title." Pinkie smiled. "Almost similar to this chapter's title."

Okay, I have no idea what Pinkie is talking about but hey, at least Jamie has another inspirational moment to write a book.

"Well that sounds like a good title for your next book Jamie." I complimented, much to his joy.

"T-thank you...!" Jamie thanked. "But you know, the protagonist's name was inspired after you. You did solved out how the mystery went...well mostly."

I looked at him with a surprised look and asked "You...based your character after me?"

"O-of course!" Jamie nodded. "You're a good friend K-Kaede...and I-I'm glad that I-I made a friend...like you."

I couldn't help but feel happy to hear that from him. I gave him a smile and replied "Well I couldn't ask a friend like you Jamie."

Jamie nodded before we began to explain our story to Princess Celestia about our adventures on the train ride here to Canterlot, which made her surprised and amused by our story about me, Twilight, Pinkie, and Jamie trying to solve the mystery, gathering the evidence, and accusing four of our friends for the crime.

But you know, I am glad to try and help out at least. It shows that not everyone is useless as they think...they just need encouraging and show that their many skills can provide and help out people and ponies in times like these. But you know...I wouldn't mind solving another mystery because....

The truth is stranger than fiction!
To Be Continued
> Chapter 54 - A Canterlot Wedding Disaster Part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Jamie....Jamie....Jamie!" W-what?! Where am I? Oh wait...I'm at the Golden Oaks Library. Huh...I must've stayed up too late last night...again. What was I doing? Well other than late night book reading, I was busy researching both Starswirl's journal and the smudgy note that Ren, Nicole, and Rantaro found in the new areas in the room. I stood awake in the entire night just the sole purpose on deciphering them, even finding a way to uncover the note Ren made.

"Finally, you're awake!" I looked over to my right, and to my surprise, i-it was Twilight! She looked over me with a concern look and asked "You okay? I was starting to worry because you took a long time waking up from me and Spike's calls."

"O-oh..." I muttered, looking around in surprise and saw myself in my own desk that both Twilight and Spike provided for me when I started helping out around here. I gave her an apologetic look and said "Oh...sorry about that..."

"It's okay. No need to apologize." Twilight assured with a soft smile. "Anyway, Spike and I were just checking up on you to see if you were awake just so we could have breakfast together."

"O-oh...s-sure Twilight." I nodded, trying my best not to blush in embarrassment. "L-let's go eat!"

"Okay!" Twilight chuckled before walking off from my desk. I soon got up and dust myself off before letting out a yawn. Man...I'm getting too tired out for this. I really want to stop doing what I was doing but right now! I just can't stop myself! Right now, I'm trying to decipher the journal's code but it's difficult for us to decipher it, not only because I have a hard time understanding the language, but for some reason, no one but us humans can be able to read it. I just don't understand why, but in the meantime, I should get some breakfast. 

I headed towards the kitchen to see Spike cooking up some meals by himself with a satisfied smile on his face.

"Oh hey Jamie! You're just in time for my special made breakfast!" Spike smiled.

"O-oh really? What's on the menu today?" I asked curiously as Owlicious, who has happened to be helping Spike at the moment came over and delivered some dishes for us. It was a special made French Toast, but it had hay for the stuffing and some carrots on top of it. "U-umm...is this supposed to be French Toast?"

"Well  yeah." Spike shrugged. "It's Twilight's favorite dish."

"Oh...I-I see." I nodded before putting my hands together and saying a praise for dinner. I was taught to always praise before eating dinner. Why do you ask? Well I was told by my peers that it's very respectable to do it.

After I was done praising, I picked up my fork and began eating it and once I took a bite out of it, I let out a small smile which went unnoticed by Spike and Owlicious.

"So...do you like it?" Spike asked curiously. 

"Hoo Hoo?" Owlicious twisted his head a bit backwards before looking at me with curious eyes. 

"I-it's very delicious...Thank you for making breakfast Spike." I thanked with a soft smile. "You know, you're quite good with your cooking. It makes you almost look like a professional Chef."

"Maybe..." Spike chuckled with a smirk. "I could maybe be a chef and open up my own restaurant. Oh, that could be good."

"And whatever happened to always being my assistant, Spike?" Oh! It's Twilight! I didn't even see her there! She just walked over to the kitchen with a smirk and a raised brow. "I thought for sure that you vow to never leave my side as my number#1 assistant?"

Spike scratched the back of his neck with his spatula and made a nervous chuckle.

"W-well...you know Twilight? I was just joking as usual." That didn't sound like a joke at all. You sounded like you were serious onto dreaming about being a chef and opening a restaurant.

"Right." Twilight rolled her eyes as Owlicious flew over and placed the same dish I was eating. She then looked over at me with a smile and asked "So Jamie, how's your breakfast?"

"O-oh...I-it's good. Thank you for asking." I smiled softly at her. "Thank you for asking me."

"Tee-hee! Anytime Jamie!" Twilight giggled before taking a bite of an Equestrian version of French Toast. "So anyway, you weren't doing anymore research late last night without me, were you?"

I felt a bit shocked and worried about her finding out about that as I began stuttering.

"U-u-uhh...w-w-ell....I-I...." Oh man oh man oh man! H-h-how could I explain this to her?! Suddenly, I began to hear her snickered, along with Spike and Owlicious. "U-u-umm...what?"

"It's okay if you did it." Twilight waved it off with a smile. "You were just so curious, that's all. It's understandable based upon the clues we found so far during your time here in Equestria."

"Yes." I nodded with a small frown on my face. It's been exactly six months, several weeks, and presumably 50 days since I first gotten here. Sorry...I haven't been good keeping track. I'm...totally useless...aren't I? Though I wouldn't say that aloud towards the others because I really want to get strong. I only told Jack, Mason, Ren, and Kodiak of this because...I trust them. I never had friends like them before, and I was always known for my books but many people try to be friends for my money because I'm the heir of the Watson family's fortune. I feel so much ashamed of myself for ever being a part of a rich family...especially a rich family that has a neglectful father.

"Well either way, I can understand." Twilight nodded. "Even I am so curious onto solving the mysteries behind you and the others' appearances in our world or why you were inside of that home-ship. To think we have the other clues but we're just drawing a blank here." 

"Y-yeah...I supposed you're right." I sighed. "I-I'm sorry...."

"What are you apologizing for?" Spike asked curiously.

"I-it's just that...I'm so unreliable..." I sighed sadly. "When we finally did find some clues....w-we get ourselves into a blank and start back to square one. I-I really am unreliable..."

"Don't say that Jamie!" Twilight shook her head. "It'll take a long while till we find a way to uncover the smudge out of that letter they found back in Nicole's room."

"I am still confused on why it wouldn't be wiped away in the first place." Spike shrugged, taking a bite of his french toast. "I mean, no matter how much ink dropper we use, it doesn't work."

"Well it's possible that it could possibly be that the smudges grown attached to the paper?" I suggested, which Twilight hummed in agreement.

"That's a possibility." Twilight sighed. "The best way is to find out...hopefully that Princess Celestia might help out."

"Y-yeah...it's best if we sent out this l-letter to her." I nodded with a meek smile. "Also...thank you for making this breakfast, Spike."

"Ha ha, anything for a friend." Spike winked.

"F-Friend?" I asked in surprise. "Y-you...really think of me a-as a friend?"

"Well of course!" Spike nodded with a smile. "You and Twilight are always hanging out, helping us around the library, and you're quite intelligent with a lot of facts and logic."

"O-oh..." I blushed a bit before looking away nervously. "Y-yeah....thank you Spike..."

"Anytime!" Spike chuckled.

"Well anyway, if you boys are done chatting..." Twilight handed Spike her dish with a smile. "We should get to the first part of the list, clean-up and then later pack some stuff up for a little picnic with the others."

"Huh? P-Picnic?" I asked in surprise. 

"Oh right, we never told you yet." Twilight turned with a soft smile as she gotten out of her seat and began heading towards the end of the room. "See, we were having a little picnic with the others just to hang out."

"Oh...I-I see." I chuckled a bit. "W-well...we better get to cleaning, huh?"

"You bet!" Twilight nodded before she headed towards out of the kitchen. "You do the dishes while I go sweep around the library."

"Y-yes T-Twilight!" I nodded. "A-And...I hope you have...umm..."

Twilight let out a giggle before saying "Well either way...thanks for your assistance."

I let out a weak smile and nodded before she took her leave to do what she said she needed to do. I smiled softly at her, feeling a bit joy from us. Every time I see her read, compliment me for my skills, I...I felt so happy to find someone who loves similar things like mine. 

"So..." Spike turned to me with a sly grin. "How it's going on with your crush?"

"It's going great, Spike! She's feeling so wonderful and-".....Ah crap! Why did I say that?! In front of Spike and Owlicious no less! Suddenly, I began to hear them laughing while my face turned bright red in embarrassment.

"P-p-please keep it down!" I begged, which caused them to be quiet. "T-thank you..."

"I knew it! You really do have a-" I immediately closed Spike's mouth in hopes he doesn't blurt it out loud enough for Twilight to hear! 

"P-please be quiet!" I pleaded, which he rolled his eyes before looking over me with an annoyed look. "Thank you...anyway...just forget w-what you heard...it's not like it's important anyway...."

"Hey, don't say that." Spike patted me on the back, bringing up a smile. "I mean, so if you have a weird thing for Twilight. I mean, Ren is dating Fluttershy and Mason and Rarity...well, that's one thing. I'm not sure about Jack and Rainbow Dash considering that they like to challenge each other in competition and like to argue a lot, so...yeah..." 

He shrugged while I slumped my head down and sighed "I-It's nothing important...I...I'm just a loser. No way she would like a coward l-like me..."

"How could you not know?" Spike questioned with a raised brow. "Just talk to her when you have the chance."

"A-Are you sure?" I asked, looking at him with a confused look. "W-what if...she just laughs at me?"

"What could possibly happen by simply laughing at you?" Spike questioned.

"W-well...umm...." I looked away with a nervous look before I began scratching my hair over and over again. "Ugh! What am I saying?! I'm so stupid!"

"Dude, just calm down." Spike said with a blank look before letting out a sigh and smiling over me. "Just stay confident for once. You're not gonna keep your secret crush thing a secret forever."

I looked away with a sad look. You know...Spike has a point. I can't keep hiding it away from her for like forever. I have to tell her how I feel...I've been keeping this away but...why am I having so much of this intense feeling with her? I...I just don't get it....why do I have feelings for a pony? N-no offense to her! I'm not saying that there's nothing wrong with that but...it's just...how should I put it?...You know what? Just ignore me...you all probably wouldn't want to listen to a coward like me.

“What are you guys talking about?” AHH! I immediately turned around in shock upon seeing Twilight coming into the room with a raised brow. “I can practically hear you guys mumbling back at the living room.”

“I-i’ts nothing Twilight! We were just discussing some…things.” I had to lie…I…I just don’t want her to find out. But…I supposed that Spike does raise a point….there’s no way I have to keep hiding my hidden feelings for her…but I’m just scared on how she would react…I’m just…too much of a coward. No way she would like a coward like me.

“Well…okay.” Twilight shrugged. “Come on, we should hurry and clean up, do our morning book read sessions, and head over to the hills just at the park.”

“Y-yes Twilight!” I nodded firmly, but held a nervous look on my face.

“You got it Twilight!” Spike winked before getting off of a small stool he was standing on and began doing some clean-up. 

“In the meantime, I better head and sweep off the floor. Jamie, do you mind if you dust some of the bookshelves for me, please?” Twilight asked with a hopeful smile. I looked away nervously and began stuttering again.

“O-o-oh! Y-yes Twilight! I-I’ll get right o-on it!” I nodded before making my way out of the room, passing by Twilight and went to do what she asked me to do.

Though…I supposed what Spike told me is true. I can’t keeping it forever…when the time is right…I’ll tell her….I’ll tell her…that I…love her….if she would accept it and won’t mock me…but no…I trust her. Of course she wouldn’t laugh or mock me for something so simple like that…right?

Later
Kaede’s POV

“Ahh…a wonderful idea Kay.” 

“Tee-hee! Thanks Rarity. I just thought this blanket was good enough for the picnic.” I chuckled before placing it down onto the ground while the others went helping out. In case you guys didn’t knew was that we planned a picnic just a few weeks after Ren’s 16th birthday party skirmish. It was really fun playing detective during that incident, but what I’m really glad is that we finally decided to hang out on this picnic we planned out. 

Jack, Applejack, Mason, and Rainbow Dash were busy having a competition in arm/hoof-wrestling. Carrie was playing with Ren and Fluttershy and the rest of our pets. Me, Rarity, and Rosy were busy setting things up to make things more ‘pizzazz’ or would Rarity might say.

“Say, are you done yet?” Kodi asked, wagging his tail a bit. “Because I really really want something to eat now.”

“Just settle down, boy.” Ren chuckled, petting him on the head. “You just need to relax and wait till the others show up.”

“Ren is right.” Fluttershy nodded. “I think it's very rude to keep bugging ponies when they're busy."

"Oh right." Kodi chuckled with a small smile before noticing that Rosy was walking over to him with a soft smile as she nuzzled his leg. "Oh hey there, Li'l Rosy!" 

"Meow!" Rosy nodded with a purr. "Meow Meow!"

Rosy jumped onto his face and began playing around with him, causing him to laugh and rolled around the grass.  We all watched over and laughed as we settled down on the food, drinks, and such we brought over for the picnic. 

"Ahh..." Jack scratched his belly with an amused grin. "Well I'm glad that we finally get some decent food."

"Right." Applejack nodded before turning to him with a raised brow. "You sure that  you won't be eating any meat today? I mean, practically everypony around in Equestria knows about you."

"Don't worry." Carrie assured. "Me, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo wrote an apology about that all over Equestria so everypony will be alright...I think."

"That's a relief." I sighed before smiling over her. "That was so nice of you! Thanks Carrie!"

"Indeed, little sis." Mason ruffled her hair, causing her to laugh a lot.

"Hmph!" Jack scoffed, letting out some air out of his nostrils. "Well still...I rather eat some hamburgers than some 'hay'-burgers."

"Come on, it's taste so good Jack." Rainbow retorted. "You even said that they taste not bad."

"Exactly. 'Not bad'." Jack scoffed before letting out a light burp. "Ooh, been holding that for a while."

"Ugh!" Rarity scoffed, waving her hoof away in disgust. "Has anypony back in your world  taught you any manners?"

"I'm a biker. I can do whatever I want, ya frigging loon." Jack snorted, only to receive a death glare from Rarity herself. Ooh, I really hoping that you wouldn't call that again. You know how she is, Jack.

"Now now, you guys." Ren said with a soft smile. "No need to fight."

Jack and Rarity glared at each other before scoffing each other and muttered "Fine..."

"So where's Twilight and Jamie?" Carrie asked curiously.

"Don't you worry Carrie!" Pinkie explained, messing around with her hair. "After all, they'll be any minute right...." She raised her hoof and pointed towards the end of the hill. "Now!"

"Hey you guys!" We looked over to see both Jamie and Twilight walking over with smiles on their faces. "Sorry if we were late! Had a lot to do over for the morning chores list I scheduled."

"It's alright." Mason assured with a light bow. "You're just in time to enjoy this picnic."

"T-thank you." Jamie nodded before the two settled down on the ground. "U-umm...did we miss anything along the way?"

"Oh no, nothing much." I waved it off with a smile. "We were just hanging out while we waited for you guys to show up to have our little picnic."

"O-oh...I see. Thank you all." Jamie thanked with a meek smile, twiddling with his notebook a little. "S-so...I-I just heard about this picnic just earlier and...well...s-sorry..."

"What are you apologizing for?" Rainbow asked with a raised brow. "So what if you forgot? At least Twilight made you remember about it at least!"

"I-I know but..." Jack slammed him on his back, much to his surprise. "A-AH!" He shrieked in fear.

"Just relax kiddo." Jack grinned. "So what if ya didn't bring any food to the picnic? We're fine now."

"Yeah!" Pinkie nodded, appearing right in front of Jamie with a huge grin. "We got plenty of food like hay-burgers, hay-fries, carrot cake, apple pie, and-"

Rainbow immediately slapped her mouth shut with a sheepish smile. 

"Yeah...I think it's best if you didn't bring any of that up." Rainbow insisted.

"At all." Kodi added, causing the rest of us to laugh.

"W-well...even so..." Jamie softly smiled at us. "T-thank you."

"Anytime..." I nodded before picking up a slice of apple pie for him. "So...care for a slice?"

"O-oh yes please!" Jamie nodded before accepting my offer and taking a bite of the apple pie. Just by one bite, he felt amazed by how delicious it was. "Oh my goodness! I-it taste so good! I've never had an apple pie before!"

"Heh, well it's your lucky day!" Applejack grinned. "It's one of my Apple Family's secret recipes!"

"I don't think it's that hard or too much of a secret to know how to make apple pies." Ren stated, scratching his cheek in embarrassment while the rest of us laughed at that, realizing how true is that. 

Heh heh heh. Well...looks everyone is enjoying this party as much as I am. I'm really glad everyone is enjoying and I'm also glad to be a part of it and I'm sure Jamie feels that way too. I'm super glad that-



U-ugh...what? Where am I? I then saw a static image of me having some sort of helmet on my head with my eyes peacefully closed. What's going on? What is that thing?

"I may not be someone special. I may be an ordinary high school girl but...I really want to offer my help to others. That's why I'll keep fighting off and I would sacrifice myself for my friends...because that's what my heart tells me."

What...did I say? 



"Ooh..." I rubbed my aching head, unable to stop the headache while the others looked over at me with great concern.

"K-Kaede darling, are you alright?" Rarity asked in worried.

"H-huh?" I looked up to see them looking at me with concern, causing me to smile meekly at them. "O-oh...it's nothing. Just a minor headache."

"Oh...I-I see." Rarity sighed in relief. "You nearly gotten a big scare out of us."

"Tell me about it." Mason nodded. "Are you sure you are alright, Kaede?"

"Y-yeah...totally!" I nodded. I'm not sure what I saw...but I'm sure we'll talk about it later.

"What's going on here?"

Hm? Was that...?

Soon, we saw two figures walking towards us which we were all too familiar with.

"Well well well, thought I found you guys here." Oh boy, it's them. Apparently, we were introduced once more by Rantaro and Nicole together again. Like seriously, these two seemed to pretty know each other very well that I honestly can't tell what's up with that? 

"Hello there..." Nicole greeted with a small wave before looking over her iPad.

"What brings ya here Rantaro and Nicole?" Ren asked curiously.

"Did you also come for the picnic?" Fluttershy asked. 

"Nah, I was busy minding my own business. I have no need to go around and play around in some picnic." Rantaro shrugged till Nicole intervened.

"He's joking around. He's feeling eager to join in on you." Nicole explained, causing Rantaro to stiff a bit before leaning his fedora down a bit.

"Would you just shut up for once?" Rantaro scoffed before turning to us with a smirk. "Ignoring her for a moment, just thought I could chat up with ya guys."

"...Alright, so what do ya want partner?" Applejack questioned suspiciously. "I highly doubt that someone like you would want to hang out with us."

"True." Rantaro shrugged. "I just felt bored with her being around me."

"No, you dragged me over here to hang out with you because you felt too bored being by yourself and your friend, Gizmo." Nicole retorted bluntly. 

"Seriously? Is there an off button on ya?" Rantaro asked irritably with a blank look.

"Tch! Get lost!" Jack scoffed.

"Come on you guys." Ren begged. "They're just trying to be nice. At least we could let them hang out with us on this picnic."

"Well yeah!" I nodded in agreement. "I mean, we planned this picnic for weeks and so we all deserved it."

Everyone looked at each other, some felt doubtful and highly suspicious of Rantaro while the others thought that Nicole was no problem...well except for her social skills of course. 

"Well...Kaede does raise a good valid point." Rarity spoke up.

"I think it would be nice for them to join." Fluttershy smiled.

"I'm not interested." Rantaro scoffed. "Besides, I think Nicole would love to join with you while you guys are just wasting my time."

"No I don't." Nicole said bluntly while she glanced away. "I...rather be somewhere in my room." She narrowed her eyes towards Rantaro. "Besides...you practically dragged me away from my room while I was on my iPad."

"So?" Rantaro snickered. "Can't a guy like me just love to drag a girl off like that?"

"I...have no response to that." Ren said, sweat-dropping a little.

"Me neither." I nodded in agreement, sweat-dropping as well.

"Just leave me alone." Nicole said sternly. "I'm not good around crowds."

"Well you won't if ya don't improving your social skills." Rantaro scoffed. "Jeez, so annoying. Maybe if I should have left you off..."

"Ah..." Nicole stared at him for a while before glancing away and began doing something on her  iPad, much to our confusion.

"Ooh! What she doing on that weird iPaddy device thingy?!" Pinkie asked curiously. 

"Maybe playing a game?" Ren suggested, prompting Twilight to give him a weird look.

"Really? Do you really think a professional psychologist would play a game on that device of hers?" Twilight questioned.

"Well yeah." Ren shrugged, which made Fluttershy, Kodiak, and Rosy chuckled in delight at the suggestion Ren made. 

"Now now Ren." Fluttershy patted her on the head.

"I have no interest in some picnic. I know you guys don't bother with me." Rantaro shrugged. "You guys haven't been trusting me for two months."

"For obvious reasons!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

"Yeah! You're a frigging criminal!" Jack growled, clenching his fists tightly.

Rantaro gave him a bored look before letting out a yawn. "Wow...like I haven't heard that before? So what you say doesn't apply to you considering that you're a brute of a biker as well?"

A tick-mark appeared on Jack's forehead as he grabbed him by the tie and prepared to punch him through the face.

"Why you little piece of-"

"Hey wait!" Ren stopped us, along with me and Applejack. "You guys! Don't! We're supposed to have fun!" Ren exclaimed in worried.

"Ren's right, you guys!" I nodded in agreement. "No need to fight!"

"Settle down partner!" Applejack held Jack back, forcing him to let go of Rantaro's tie. He gave off a scoff while the rest of us sighed in annoyance.

"See? Even the brute doesn't like me?" Rantaro shrugged. "You guys can't trust me."

Nicole stared at him for a while before going back on her iPad.

"E-everyone..." We looked over at Jamie, who held a nervous look. "D-do we really have to fight? U-umm...I'm sure it's just a m-misunderstanding...P-please..."

We all stared at him with concern looks before letting out sighs.

"Fine...only because you said it Jamie." Rainbow groaned.

"Besides, we all should be enjoying this!" Carrie giggled. "I mean, I never eaten this much food before."

"Yeah!" Kodi nodded in agreement, biting onto some chocolate cake Pinkie brought over. "Mm-hmm! It's so delicious! I can't believe the Cakes ever made the best chocolate cake ever!"

"Don't forget! They even Rennie's birthday 'MMMM' cake!" Pinkie added, which made Ren smiled at that.

"Yeah, though..." Ren scratched the back of his neck with a sheepish grin. "You kinda ate all of it up, remember?"

"Oh right..." Pinkie muttered, realizing that before letting out a huge grin. "But don't worry Rennie! I promise that I'll bake you another 'MMMM' cake!"

"R-really? Thanks Pinkie!" Ren grinned happily.

"A-are you sure?" Jamie asked curiously. "D-didn't you say that it took you over by several months or so to create it?"

"That's gonna be one of my Pinkie Promises to fulfill!" Pinkie winked. "And besides..." She soon turned over to...what is she even looking at? "The audience knows that we kinda fast-forward a lot through these chapters, ain't that right readers?"

"....." We all stared at her with befuddled, confused, weird, and blank looks on our faces.

"Whaaaat?" Kodi asked before looking over at Rosy, who only shrugged in confusion.

"Twi....light!.." Huh? We looked behind us to see Spike running towards us with a tired out look on his face. "I...have...lemme just...." He began taking some deep breaths before sighing in relief. He raised one claw before we heard his stomach making some weird sounds before he let out a loud burp of fire out of his mouth, and out came was a letter from the princess herself.

"Interesting..." Nicole muttered, tapping her chin in thought. "Does that happen to him every time?"

"A lot, yes." Mason replied a firm nod. "Though...what does Princess Celestia sent for us this time?"

"Let me read it over." Twilight picked up the letter by using her levitation magic and unveiled it as she began reading it aloud. 

"Dear Twilight, I am sure you are as excited as I am about upcoming wedding in Canterlot."

She looked over us with a confused look and asked "Wedding?"

"I don't know any wedding at all." Ren shrugged.

"Me neither." I added.

"Ooh! A wedding!" Carrie asked in excitement. "Ooh! It's been so long since I've been to a wedding!"

"Really?" Jamie asked in surprise. "D-did you e-ever attended weddings when you were still living with the O-Ortega Family?"

"Yep! Big brother, Elena, and I always attended some of our relatives wedding parties and they're always the best!" Carrie giggled. "I always love being the flower girl and always pushing my big brother into kissing Elena."

"C-Carrie!" Mason gasped, trying his best to hide his blush while the others snickered as Jack hardly patted him on the back and barked up some laughter. 

"Ah ha ha ha! Who knew your sister had the guts to make ya do that to your girl!" Jack laughed, adding more and more embarrassment to Mason. Frankly, I feel sorry for him. Honest.

"S-strange..." Jamie muttered before looking over his notebook. "I-I don't remember you receiving a letter about some wedding over by Canterlot."

"That's what I'm wondering!" Twilight exclaimed before looked back at the letter and went back to reading.

I will be presiding over the ceremony, but would very much like you and your friends to help with the preparations for this wonderful occasion. Fluttershy, I would like you and your songbird choir to provide the music.

"Oh my goodness!" Fluttershy gasped in surprise before smiling happily at it. "What an honor!"

"Yeah!" Ren nodded. "I think you'll do wonderful at the part Fluttershy!"

"Ha ha." Fluttershy blushed over at Ren. "R-right...thank you Ren."

"Pinkie Pie, I can think of no one more qualified than you to host the reception."

"Hip, hip, hooray!" Pinkie cheered, jumping into the air with an excited grin on her face.

"Applejack, you will be in charge of the catering for the reception."

"Well, color me pleased as punch!" Applejack chuckled.

"No argument there." Jack snickered.

"Rainbow Dash-

Rainbow Dash lets out a yawn, already getting bored of this.

"...I would very much appreciate it if you could perform a Sonic Rainboom as the bridge and groom complete their 'I do's'".

The moment she heard that, Rainbow Dash flew around in loop-de-loops with an awestruck look on her face.

"Ahh yeah!" Rainbow grinned happily.

"Sounds like someone's excited." Rantaro grinned a little.

"Rarity, Kaede, you two will be responsible for designing the dresses for the bride and her bridesmaids."

"Wait what?!" I exclaimed in shock. Me and Rarity slowly looked at each other with excited looks on our faces. "P-Princess Celestia wants us..."

"To make wedding dresses for the bride and bridesmaids?!" Rarity finished my sentence as the two of us grabbed ahold of each other by the arms and hooves and began jumping up and down with glee, letting out some squeals while the others watches us in amusement.

"Huh...it would seem that Princess Celestia sees a good talent in you." Nicole stated. "So what else does it say Twilight?"

"Well..." 

"Mason, you will act as a bodyguard and served the best stallion for the groom." 

"Ah...I see." Mason smiled a bit. "That would be an honor to do."

"Well of course!" Carrie grinned happily. "With your skills big brother, you would get best honor of being best pony or man of the wedding!"

"Thank you Carrie." Mason hugged his sister, which she hugged back.

"Ren, Jamie, Jack, Rantaro, Carrie and Nicole, you four boys will be the groom's best stallions while the two girls acts as the bride's bridesmaids."

"Oh sweet! I never been a 'Best Stallion' before!" Ren chuckled. 

"Huh...can't believe she would allow some guy like me to be a 'Best Man' for a wedding..." Rantaro muttered before letting out a smirk. "Neat."

"Did ya hear that Nicole?" Carrie asked excitedly. "We're gonna be the bridesmaids!"

Nicole glanced away, feeling silent all of a sudden. Carrie blinked in confusion before she began to feel concern for her.

"Umm...Nicole?" 

"....Sure, okay. It sounds okay." Nicole shrugged, much to the rest of our shocked.

"JUST LIKE THAT?!" We all exclaimed in shock.

"Sure." Jeez, she really like giving us blunt answers, doesn't she?

"Anyway, there's more to it." Twilight began reading more of the letter.

And as for you, Twilight and your fellow novelist friend, Jamie Watson, you two will be playing the most important role of all: Making sure that everything goes as planned. See you all very soon.

- Yours truly, Princess Celestia 

"O-oh!" I gasped in surprise a bit. "S-so we're gonna oversee the wedding? That's...quite an honor."

"But I don't get it. Who's getting married?" Twilight wondered aloud.

"Oh right!" Spike takes something out behind him, revealing to be another letter. "I was supposed to give this to you first."

Seriously? Well talk about suspense and concern on that. Rolling her eyes, Twilight unfolded the next letter Spike handed her and began reading it.

"Princess Celestia cordially invites you to the wedding of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and..." She widened her eyes and lets out a shocked gasp. "My brother?!"

We all paused for a moment before making shocked looks on our faces.

"WHAT?!"


My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic


Jamie's POV

"W-w-w-w-w-w-what?!" I gasped in shock. T-T-Twilight...has a brother?! W-well...there was always a possibility/50% chance on that she had a sibling, but I dismissed that claim for a long while we were getting along so well.

"You mean...." Ren spoke up with a surprised and shocked look. "Shining Armor is getting married?!"

"Shining Armor?" Rantaro questioned with a raised before snickering. "Pfft! What a lame name. Who names their children like that?"

"You did forget that in Equestria, there are a lot of weird names, right?" Kaede pointed out.

"True, but that name is obviously the funniest ones." Rantaro chuckled. "I feel sorry for the guy for ever having a name like that."

Suddenly, he was hit on the head with a rolled up letter that Twilight used with a stern look on her face.

"This IS serious, Rantaro!" Twilight exclaimed. "Don't you guys get it?! My brother is getting married!"

"Your brother's getting married?" Applejack asked, feeling excited by that. "Congratulations Twilight, that's great news!"

"Yeah!" Carrie nodded. "It must feel awesome knowing that your brother is dating a wonderful girl!"

"It must be an honor, right?" Kodi asked with a smile. "I mean, if Princess Celestia is entrusting all of us to prepare this wedding then it must be a real honor for your brother to do that."

"Plus, Shining Armor IS Twilight's older brother." Ren added. "But man, I haven't heard from Shining Armor for a long while."

"Ah...so you know who this Shining Armor character is, huh?" Nicole questioned.

"Yeah! He's the Captain of the Royal Guard back at Canterlot." Kaede explained with a chuckle. "He escorted us towards the castle and we soon learned that he was related to Twilight."

"So..." Twilight turned to Ren, Kaede, Mason, and Carrie with a stern and fiery glare, causing me to flinch in fear. "You're telling me that you guys met my brother back when you were called by Princess Celestia herself and you never told us about that?! Not even to me?!"

"Uhh...yeah?" Ren answered, feeling a bit intimidated by her.

"Is there...something wrong Twilight?" Carrie asked.

"Oh nothing. I'm fine. Everything's great." Twilight scoffed before sitting down on the blanket and began chomping over a sandwich. "That I just got from a wedding invitation! Not from my brother, but from a piece of paper! Thanks a lot, Shining Armor. I mean, really, he couldn't tell me personally?"

"T-Twilight?" I called in concern. "U-umm....I-I'm sure he had his reasons. M-maybe...a surprise?"

"Oh yeah, sure." Twilight huffed before she began speaking in a different tone like she was imitating someone, possibly her brother. "Hey, Twilight, just thought you should know I'm making a really big decision that changes everything. Oh, never mind, you'll hear about it when you get the invitation. Princess Mi Amore Cadenza? Who in the hoof is that?!"

She lets out a snort before noticing our stares we sent at her.

"Umm...Twilight? Are you okay?" Fluttershy asks in worried. 

"She's feeling upset, anxious, angry, frustrated, and disappointed and heart-broken that her brother never told her about getting married with a girl she claims she doesn't know." Nicole described, much to our shock.

"Y-yeah...that." Twilight sighed. "It's just that-"

"You're very close with your brother, correct?" Nicole guessed.

Twilight looked at her for a while before letting out a sigh.

"Yes...that." Twilight looks down with a sad look.

"You must be really close with your bro, huh?" Jack questioned, scratching the back of his head. "I get that, I mean that I've been close with my older sister for quite a while."

"You have an older sister?" Ren asked in surprise.

"What? I never mentioned that?" Jack asked, which the majority of us shook our heads. "Well too bad, you're hearing it now."

"But anyway..." Twilight spoke up again. "Sorry, it's just that Shining Armor and I have always been so close. He's my B.B.B.F.F!"

We all blinked a few times, unable to comprehend what she meant.

"B.B.B.F.F?" Ren asked in confusion.

"What the hell does that supposed to mean?" Jack questioned.

"Umm...c-can you be more specific?" I asked curiously. Twilight sighed before saying "Best Big Brother Friend Forever!"

"Who in their frigging minds say that?" Jack snorted.

"It sounds like an extended version of B.B.F." Kaede pointed out.

"True." Mason nodded, having a firm and serious look on his face. "...Say Twilight, about this wedding, just exactly when was it planned?"

"Huh? Oh well..." Twilight looked over at the paper. "Apparently this letter was addressed since two months ago."

"Two months..." Mason muttered. "Hmm..."

"Something in your mind?" Ren asked curiously. Mason went silent for a moment before opening his eyes and said "It's nothing. I was just curious, that is all."

"Well anyway..." Nicole spoke up. "You were talking about how close you two were before you moved out of Canterlot and decided to live here in Ponyville, right?"

"Y-yeah!" Twilight nodded.

"Surprised that she somehow managed to figure that out." Rainbow whistled.

"What do you suspect? She's a psychologist." Rantaro reminded us before narrowing his eyes at her. "An annoying and silent one if I might add."

"You were the one who dragged me outside." Nicole retorted.

"Shut up." Rantaro rolled his eyes.

"But even so...." Carrie turned to Twilight with a soft smile. "You just gotta have faith in your big brother, Twilight. I mean, I'm sure he has his reasons."

"I hope so..." Twilight sighed. "Truth be told, before I came here and learned the importance of friendship, Shining Armor was the only pony I ever really accepted as a friend."

"R-Really?" I asked in confusion before making a meek smile. Y-you must've been lucky to have someone to look up to, huh?"

"Exactly!" Twilight nodded with a smile. "I'm glad that you understand Jamie!"

"Are you kidding?" Jack snorted. "This guy has like 24 sisters or whatever."

"T-true..." I nodded. "B-but Twilight...are you worried...about him marrying this bride of hers?"

"Well...I guess you can say that." Twilight sighed, glancing down sadly. "It's just that...it could be possible that he could have forgotten about me."

"Twilight..." I muttered, feeling so worried and concern for her.

Suddenly, we began to hear some music being played while I noticed some making knowing smiles while the rest of us drew a blank on what was happening. Seriously, where is that music being played?

(Twilight):

When I was just a filly, I found it rather silly
To see how many other ponies I could meet
I had my books to read, didn't know that I would ever need
Other ponies to make my life complete

But there was one colt that I cared for
I knew he would be there for me

My big brother, best friend forever!
Like two peas in a pod, we did everything together

He taught me how to fly a kite (Best friend forever!)
We never had a single fight (We did everything together!)
We shared our hopes, we shared our dreams
I miss him more than I realized
It seems...

(Jamie and co.):

Your big brother, best friend forever
Like two peas in a pod, you did everything together

(Twilight):

And though he's, oh, so far away
I hoped that he would stay
My big brother best friend
Forever...
Forever...

“Twilight…” I fully understand how you feel. But…surely if what you said is true about your brother. I’m sure he hasn’t forgotten about you…unlike me, I’m pretty much a forgettable guy…

“Don’t feel bad Twi.” Ren assured. “As one of your H.P.F.F.’s…”

Everyone stared at Ren, blinking in confusion which made him sigh and say “Human and Pony Friends Forever…”

“Ohhh!” We all said, realizing what he meant now. Ren turned to Twilight with a soft grin and said “…I wanna tell you that your brother is a real hero fro somepony being captain of the Royal Guard.”

“Yes, Ren makes a good point.” Mason nodded with a small grin. “Shining Armor is quite a good figure who fights for justice, so it would make sense why he would fall in love and marry a princess.”

“True, and he really is special.” Twilight chuckled. “I mean, they don’t let just anypony be captain of the Royal Guard.”

“I know!” Carrie smiled before looking over her brother. “He could possibly be stronger than you, big brother.”

“That is a possibility.” Mason mused himself. “So…when do we leave?”

“According to here…” Twilight looked over at the letter. “About this afternoon.”

“Plenty of time to pack up!” Kaede smiled happily. “I better sort out my clothes and get ready.”

“Alright, I see why not.” Nicole shrugged lightly.

“Hmph. For a princess inviting me over and making me best man…” Rantaro chuckled with a smirk on his face. “This will be something that won’t be a waste of my time.”

“Does everything you do won’t be a waste of time?” Applejack questioned with a raised brow.

“But other than that, this will be awesome!” Ren grinned happily.

“Tell me about it!” Kodi barked happily. “I never heard or even been to a wedding, but I bet it’ll be amazing!”

“And it would romantic.” Rarity sighed happily. “It’ll be magnificent…ahh…”

Rarity soon began falling down, prompting Mason to catch her as she held a soft smile on her face. Everyone began laughing while I stared at her with a meek smile. These guys…they always find a way to enjoy themselves. They’re really good people…I would know this after spending a long while with them after being stuck in this world. Even when Twilight having some sort of brotherly complex issue with this Shining Armor pony. I am quite interested into meeting him but…I-I’m just so scared just by meeting him…w-what if he doesn’t like me by first glance? I-I…don’t want him to hate me because of my cowardice…well…I guess the only way to find out is by maybe seeing what kind of pony he is.

“H-hey Twilight?” I called nervously before looking away from when everyone stared at me. “A-About your brother…you say that he’s captain of the Royal Guard, r-right?”

“Yes? Why do you ask?” Twilight raised a brow at me.

“W-w-well…umm…” I twiddled my fingers nervously, wondering what should I say. Maybe I can ask her about what her brother is like and if he's too overprotective...I...I guess it's sorta rude to ask something like that. "...N-Never mind..."

"Jeez, where did all of your confidence go?" Rantaro snickered. 

"Hey! Shaddup!" Jack hissed angrily.

"Yeah! Leave Jamie alone!" Rainbow insisted, narrowing her eyes at the broker.

"Everyone, calm down." Nicole said sternly but with a calm look. "Fighting and arguing is only gonna make things worse."

"Yeah everyone." Ren nodded in agreement with a smile. "We all gotta be happy that we're being invited! I mean, this will be an awesome experience! I mean, we're all the guests of honor!" 

"Exactly!" Kodiak grinned. "Oh wait...what about me and Spike?"

"Oh right, we never did figure that out." Kaede said, realizing about that.

"Don't worry, me and Kodiak have special roles." Spike chuckled, placing his hands on his hips. 

"Wait, we do?" Kodiak asked in confusion. 

"Yep! Just hold to that furry tail of yours and be good by my side, Kodi!" Spike wrapped his arm around Kodi with a gleeful smile while the husky himself looked at the dragon with a confused look.

"Oh wait, there's more..." Twilight looked over at the invitation as she began reading more of it.

"Also, I would like for the cute little Cutie-Mark Crusaders, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo to be the flower fillies of the wedding."

"What?!" Rarity immediately raised her head, accidentally bumping into Mason's forehead as he winced in pain but managed to hold her and not drop her on the grassy floor. "OW!...I am so sorry Mason darling!"

"I-it's quite alright." Mason assured. 

"So our own little sisters are gonna participate in the wedding as well?!" Applejack gaped before forming a bright grin on her face. "Well I'll be darned! That's quite nice of the princess to allow them to be flower fillies."

"In other words, you mean flower girls, correct?" I asked meekly. 

"Yep!" Applejack nodded.

"Well either way, it's going to be a blast!" Ren smiled. "We got the whole gang together in this!"

"Well at least it'll be something interesting and totally not boring..." Rantaro shrugged. 

"Sure. Okay." Nicole shrugged.

"Great! Let's finish up with our picnic and get started onto heading into that wedding!" Kaede insisted.

"Well of course!" Ren agreed. "I mean, Princess Celestia chose us for these roles because she knows that we have a strong bond with each other and we'll be able to further our friendships by making Shining Armor and this Princess's wedding come true to their eyes!"

"Yeah!" Everyone cheered while I stared at Ren for a moment before sighing and glancing down. You know...Ren is always the motivator for these things. He always stood up for others with either his words or that Hacking Gun that my family developed. I...I just wish I had that courage. I'm not complaining, I know I'm working out as much hard as I can as well as standing up for myself.

"Something wrong Jamie?" Huh? I gazed over at Twilight, who held a concern look at me. I let out a nervous chuckle and shook my head before replying "Of course not! I-I'm fine! Just feeling a bit down."

"I guess I can understand that." Huh? She does? Oh....she must mean her brother not telling him that. I'm sure he had his reasons why. I-I...just don't know what are they but hopefully we might be able to find out.

"Well..." Ren gave us a soft smile. "Let's get to it everyone! Because we got ourselves a little wedding to crash!"

"Don't you mean 'set-up'?" Kodi asked with a raised brow.

"What? I was trying to act cool." Ren retorted, shrugging.

"His personality is so childish." Nicole stated bluntly.

"Yep, for a fifteen." Rantaro couldn't help but agree with her. I slightly nodded in agreement, hearing what they said. Ren does act like one, but...it's his personality apparently that'll make anyone be his friend. Despite his naivety, he manages to encourage others and support them to the end, he even stood up against Iron Will right before me and Fluttershy did. He's...someone I could rely on...but someone who looks much better than me despite being an ordinary high school student.

"Well I'm more than happy to help out as well!" Fluttershy smiled before kissing Ren on the forehead, much to his embarrassment. Yep...he's really lucky.

"You know, Ren here is quite a good friend, isn't here?" I looked over at Twilight smiling over him. "He always manages to keep going no matter what. That's what makes him a good friend to count on." 

"Really?" I asked in worried. 

"Yeah." Twilight smiled before looking over me with a soft grin. "And I count on you because you're quite reliable with knowledge and good info you give us."

"O-oh...!" I looked away with a slight blush. "W-well...thank you."

"Anytime. I just hope whenever there's trouble, I can always rely on all of you." Twilight chuckled, causing me to smiled softly at her. Twilight....thank you for accepting my ability...I may be a forgettable guy...but I'm quite a good mystery novelist and...I'll be a good friend to Twilight and co....I hope...



Later

"A Sonic Rainboom? At a wedding?! Can you say 'best wedding ever'?!"

"BEST WEDDING EVER!"

"That was a rhetorical question." Nicole stated, cleaning off her glasses. "And please don't shout that out loud again, Miss Pinkie Pie."

"Sorry, I couldn't contain much of my excitement!" Pinkie giggled.

Well...I guess it might be exciting to attend a wedding. Anyway, soon after we finished with our picnic. We began packing our things as fast as we could and managed to get tickets to go over to Canterlot. Apparently, Granny Smith and Big Mac promised to bring over the Cutie-Mark Crusaders to the wedding by the next day for the rehearsal. Carrie felt bad that they couldn't tag along in the train ride with us, but they promised that they'll meet up later...hopefully.

"Me too!" Carrie cheered. "It's so awesome! I can't wait to check out the wedding!"

"Best part is that we're the best man and woman in the wedding." Ren chuckled.

"Umm....do ya mean 'best stallions and best mares'?" Fluttershy reminded him.

"True, but that's what we call back in our world." Ren shrugged.

"You know..." Jack let out a snort with a smirk on his face while he sat down on the entire seat while he lay down on his side. "I've been to tons of weddings with my gang."

"Really?!" Carrie asked in surprise.

"I...never knew bikers could hold many weddings." Kaede scratched her cheek in embarrassment.

"Hell yeah!" Jack winked with two thumbs-up and a toothy grin. "At the end of the wedding, we race around in our bikes, have wrestling matches, eating tons of food till our stomachs bulges out, and more junk!"

"Now that sounds like my kind of style!" Rainbow grinned determinedly.

"Well in normal weddings..." Mason spoke up, having a criss-cross position. "However, we do not do...that kind of stuff as you described, Jack."

"Well of course not." Rarity smiled towards him. "Weddings that fancy ponies do are normal things that I bet you humans do that the same like the bride and groom loving each other, sharing their kiss to commence each other's love, along with the wedding rings, and-"

"Okay, I think that's enough. No need to hear more of your fantasies." Rantaro cut her off with a slightly annoyed look. 

"Hmph! Why I ever!" Rarity scoffed, annoyed for Rantaro cutting her off like that.

"In other words, you mean like a normal wedding." Nicole said, looking over her iPad.

"W-w-well either way..." I smiled a bit, taking some notes down on my notebook. "I-I say...it's pretty much a nice thing for the princess to entrust us to set up this wedding right?"

"Yeah." Kaede nodded in agreement before she made a light chuckle. "I guess it shows how much she trusts us."

"Well you all get to help with the big fancy wedding," Spike said before forming a grin and turned to Kodiak. "But me and Kodiak are gonna host the bachelor party!"

"Oh! So that's our new jobs?" Kodiak asked in excitement.

"You bet!" Spike snapped his fingers while the rest of the gang gave him amused smirks, blank looks, and raised brow. "But one question: What's a bachelor party?"

"Wait..." Rantaro gave him an annoyed glance. "You mean to tell me that dear old Celeste gave you the job to host the bachelor party despite not knowing it."

"Uhh...yeah?" Rantaro let out an irritated sigh, tilting his fedora down a bit.

"Well...I could tell you." He offered his hands and gestured Spike to pay him up, causing him to make an irritated look towards him before he took out his some bits towards him. "Good choice! Well I'll tell you when we arrive."

We all looked each other before the rest of the gang began laughing while I stared at Spike with a confused look.

"Umm..." I muttered, blinking in confusion. Does Spike not know that a bachelor party isn't supposed to take place till before the wedding? Because I'm afraid having one after the wedding is quite a stupid thing in my opinion.

Suddenly, I heard a heavy sigh before looking over to see Twilight making a depressed look as she sadly gazes out of the train car's window.

"T-Twilight...is there something wrong?" I asked in concern. "You look...pretty down unlike some other times when you get exhausted like me." I blushed in embarrassment upon realizing what I said. "N-n-not in a bad way! I-I swear!"

"No Jamie, it's not your fault..." Twilight sighed. "I'm just thinking about Shining Armor. Ever since I moved to Ponyville, we've been seeing each other less and less. And now that he's starting a new family with this 'Princess Mi Amore Ca-whatshername', we'll probably never see each other."

"M-maybe that won't be p=possible." I assured, having a nervous look on my face. "Y-you're his sister, r-right? I mean...I never met him, but I'm sure he still remembers you and cares for you. I-I would know this by experience."

"Oh right. You said that you have 24 sisters, right?" Twilight turned to me with a soft grin before forming a frown. "It must be pretty hard having that much."

"W-well...most of them are half-siblings." I replied, twiddling my fingers nervously before looking down sadly. "A-and besides...they're the only people I have to call 'friends'."

Twilight must've sensed my sadness as she placed her hoof on my shoulder, much to my surprise and embarrassment.

"Hey, don't feel bad. You have us, even me." Twilight smiled softly. "As long as we stick together, we'll always be B.F.F's forever."

Twilight, do you really mean that? Well...I guess that's such a stupid question to ask considering how nice and generous they all are. They helped me practically try to make me braver little by little...I guess she does have a point. They're really are people who I can rely on...my....friends...friends...I never made a single one in my life. I always get hurt, betrayed, berated, and insulted by people....all because of my status....Though being here helps me avoid all of that...and I'm...kinda grateful for that.

"Whoa....." Huh? I looked over to see something that caught my interest. Apparently, the moment we saw Canterlot off a distance, we were all caught-off by surprise upon seeing something...strange about the city.

For some reason, it was covered in some of giant shield bubble. It must've been concocted by a spell and the only one powerful enough to make it width enough to stretch itself into an entire city is Princess Celestia. She is quite powerful enough to do that...right? I-I'm not doubting her skills as a princess, just...curious. Who else could make that bubble shield?

"What the hell's up with...that?" Jack asked with a raised brow.

"Huh...I thought it looked strange." Rantaro said nonchalantly.

"Yeah...what is going on over there?" Applejack wondered.

"Ooh! Do you think that maybe somepony blew the biggest bubblegum balloon there?" Pinkie guessed.

"...That doesn't seem likely." Nicole replied, tilting her head a bit.

"And besides...it doesn't look like a giant bubblegum balloon." Kaede pointed out.

"Yeah..." Ren nodded before slowly taking out his Hacking Gun in concern. "Whatever it is, we should be careful and maybe ask somepony once we arrive to Canterlot."

"Good idea." Twilight nodded. "That way we might find out what's going on..." She then furrowed her brows in anger. "As well as speaking with my brother."

"Oh right!" Ren turned to her with a smile. "Hey Twi, you don't mind having to come with you and chat up with Shining Armor? I mean, it's been a while since we last seen each other."

Twilight huffed before replying "I see why not..."

"In that case , I too wished to come along." Mason suggested.

"Big brother?" Carrie asked, raising her brows in surprise upon hearing that.

"I just wished to chat up with Shining Armor. See what's he up to?" Mason chuckled with a smile. 

"Sure, I see why not." Twilight sighed, causing me to feel more nervous and concern for her. She really doesn't seem pretty happy about her brother not telling her about the whole wedding plan, huh? I guess with her staring at the window blankly with a depressed look and huffing angrily, I guess I can take that as a yes.

No sooner as we finally arrived to our destination, Canterlot. We soon exited out of the train as we began moving out of the train station as Pinkie bounced around in her cheery and excited self.

"We're here, we're here!" Pinkie yelled out.

"Jeez, of course we are. Just shut up for once." Rantaro scoffed before looking around the place, seeing many Royal Guard soldiers around the place. "Oh boy...sure is a lot of guards around here. It would be a problem with me getting some quick cash around here."

"Wait what?" Kaede asked, not overhearing what he said.

"Oh. Nothing." Rantaro snickered.

"He was planning on making people give him their money by giving them reliable info." Nicole stated bluntly.

"Ugh...remind me why are you here again?" Rantaro asked, glancing at her in an irritated state.

"Because you brought me over by force." She stated bluntly.

"Oh right..." Rantaro groaned.

"Anyway...what's up with the Royal Guards anyway?" Rainbow wondered, looking over at each and every one of them as we walked pass them. I nearly covered my face with my notebook because I felt afraid just staring at their piercing gazes.

"Man, is this wedding really that important that it needs this many guards?" Ren questioned aloud.

"I'm sure they're just taking the necessary precautions." Rarity suggested. "Royal weddings do bring out the strangest ponies."

"Aaaaaaaaa-" Huh? Who just sneeze? And...why did it sound like a trumpet? We all turned to Pinkie Pie, who was busy sniffling her nose before noticing us looking over her. "....What?"

"...The hell was that?" Jack asked.

"What was what?" 

"Umm...it's nothing." Kaede shook her head with a sheepish smile. "So anyway...we should probably go over and meet up with the princess, right?"

"R-right..." I nodded before turning to Twilight. "B-but Twilight...don't you have t-to see your brother?"

"Yeah. I do have to meet up with him..." Twilight huffed before muttering "And then give him a piece of my mind."

"Well...o-okay?" I smiled nervously. I just hope that she doesn't try and hurt him...not one bit, maybe.

"Oh right! Shining!" Ren gasped. "We should go over and meet up with him!"

"Yeah!" Kodi nodded in agreement.

"Hey wait, Kodiak!" Spike called. "What about us planning that bachelor party together?"

"We can do that later, I promise." Kodi assured before adding "And besides, I can't plan any bachelor party. I AM a husky, after all."

"Oh...right..." You're just realizing that now?!

"Very well." Mason nodded before turning to Carrie with a soft smile. "Would you like to see Shining Armor, Carrie?"

"Sure!" Carrie nodded.

"Well you all have fun. We shall converse with the princess and go over with our assigned jobs." Rarity insisted, which the others agreed.

"I rather go chill out over by the lobby." Jack let out a yawn. "Besides...I probably need a nap."

"Umm...do you even need to take a nap at a lobby in a fancy castle like this?" Kaede asked, sweat-dropping a little.

"Meow..." Rosy shrugged, popping out of Kaede's backpack and looked at Jack, cocking her head.

"Well either way, I guess I'm out." Rantaro began taking his leave, much to our surprise.

"W-wait! Where are you going?!" Fluttershy asked in worried. Rantaro glanced at her with a bored look but held a smirk on his face.

"I'm off to mind my own business. That's all." Rantaro waved it off before he entered the castle. So wait...i-is he gonna investigate the castle? O-oh...I just hope he doesn't do anything that could lead us into trouble. I don't want Princess Celestia to be mad at us for something like that.

"...I should go too." Nicole sighed before adjusting her glasses. "I don't seem to have a choice, after all."

"Yeah, you kinda don't." Rainbow shrugged. "But other than that, you might enjoy helping out the-"

"The wedding so I don't feel left out, am I right?" Nicoel guessed, catching Rainbow by surprise before growling at her.

"Oh come on! Stop doing that!" Rainbow hissed before flying inside of the castle.

"Ah...looks like she's gone." Nicole said, blinking in surprise.

"Well...we should get going then." Applejack sighed. 

"Ooh! Ooh! How about we go over and help me out with the party?!" Pinkie insisted, grabbing her by the arms and began dragging her towards the entrance of the castle.

"W-whoa!" Nicole exclaimed in slight surprise, being pulled away by her.

"Well they're gone." Ren smiled awkwardly upon seeing the two just gone like that.

"You think Nicole might get along with Pinkie Pie?" Carrie asked curiously.

"...." We all looked over at each other before shrugging.

"Well either way, we'll meet up with ya all later." Applejack smiled towards us. "See ya!"

"O-oh...yes. Goodbye." I nodded with a soft frown as the others began heading inside of the castle while me, Twilight, Ren, Carrie, Mason, and Kodiak. 

"Oh? Are you interested onto coming with us Jamie?" Mason asked with a raised brow.

"Y-yes...I am quite curious onto meeting S-Shining Armor." I nodded with a nervous look. "I-is that a bad idea?"

"No, we don't mind." Twilight assured before huffing "Of course, I'll be sure that my brother gets a piece of my own mind."

"Why do I have this feeling that it's not gonna be well?" Ren whispered to Kodiak.

"Because I don't think it will, Ren." W-well...judging by how she's feeling right now...I say it's not gonna be good.



Later

“A-Are you sure t-this is the way?” I asked her as we followed her throughout the courtyard of the castle. I-I mean…I get why she’s upset, but…I’m sure there’s a good reason…plus, I am quite curious to know a lot about her brother. Ren, Mason, Carrie, Kaede, and Kodiak claimed that he’s a very good pony who serves justice very well…but I-I just wanna see for myself…not that I’m doubting them of course!

"I'm positive!" Twilight said, not looking back at us as we continued our way throughout the courtyard. "Once I see him, I'll be sure to give him a good lecture that he'll never forget."

"Now Twilight..." Mason spoke up. "Please calm down. I'm sure your brother has his reasons."

"Yeah! Just have faith!" Carrie added, looking at Twilight with a concerned look.

"Yeah...faith..." Twilight scoffed before we arrived to some sort of barricade where a bunch of royal guards were standing on top of it. They noticed us before raising their spears at us, and the one between the two looked different because he had a blue-Mohawk style and his helmet looked different than the others. Twilight looked up with narrowed eyes before saying "I've got something to say to you, mister!"

The two guards didn't raise their spears down until the one in the middle raised his hoof in the air, signaling them to lowered their weapons at us before taking off his helmet, revealing to be a white stallion with dark blue mane and tail.

"Yo Shining!" Ren greeted with a bright grin. "Long time no see, eh?"

"Hey Ren! Hey you guys!" Shining greeted them with a grin. Oh...so that's Shining Armor. Alright...he sounds like a good pony right now. "How it's going?"

"It's going awesome!" Ren winked with a grin.

"It has been quite a while, hasn't it?" Mason said with a small smile. "How's it going what with being Captain of the Royal Guard?"

"It's going well. Never better." Shining chuckled before noticing Carrie and began ruffling her hair with his hoof. "And how it's going with you Carrie? Been nice and listening to your older brother?"

"Yep!" Carrie grinned happily. Kodiak came over and licked Shining Armor in the face, causing him to laugh.

"Whoa, I didn't expect you to get so big Kodi." Shining laughed.

"Well I've been growling a lot lately." Kodi chuckled. Shining Armor nodded before noticing his sister right next to me, while the purple unicorn in question gave her brother a death glare.

"And Twily! Ah, I've missed you, kid. How was the train ride? I-"

"How dare you not tell me in person that you were getting married! I'm your sister, for pony's sake!" Twilight yelled, much to Shining's startle.

"It's not my fault!" Shining Armor exclaimed. "Princess Celestia has requested a major increase in security! Didn't you see all the guards at the train station?"

"Well yeah, sure is a lot of guards around here." Ren nodded, answering Shining's question before looking over at the giant bubble shield. "Along with...that."

"Yeah well..." Twilight puffed her cheeks a bit. "There's a big wedding coming up. Maybe you heard it Shining?"

"A-all of this for a wedding?" I asked in confusion, which drew his attention towards me. I flinched in fear and stuttered "S-sorry...I didn't mean to upset you!"

"No, you didn't upset me. I was just...surprised. I thought that Ren and three of his three other friends were the only humans here..." Shining stated, much to my confusion. He then let out a soft smile and said "Oh sorry, I never did ask for your name."

"O-oh..." I nodded with a meek smile. "I-I'm Jamie Watson...i-it is an honor to meet you, C-Captain Shining Armor."

"No need for the formalities, just call me Shining." He punched me on the shoulder hard before laughing. I winced in pain before rubbing my aching shoulder before chuckling nervously. "Anyway, are you another human by the way, Jamie?"

"Y-yes..." I nodded, feeling a bit intimidated. 

"Well of course." Twilight sighed. "But he's not the only one. Apparently, there's three more humans appeared in Equestria as well."

Shining Armor jaw-dropped from hearing that, which made the other guards to silently snicker from behind his back. Shining Armor managed to regain his composure by shaking his head before asking "I-I see...so there's 8 humans here in Equestria?"

"Well yeah!" Ren nodded with a smile. "Though their personalities might be...troublesome to handle, but you'll get along with them."

"Well alright then." Shining shrugged with a soft smile before turning to me, causing me to flinch and stand up straight before I gulped in fear. "So...you're one of them, right?"

"Y-y-yes sir!" I nodded frantically, much to Shining's confusion yet amusement.

"You know, you don't have to keep being all nervous." Shining stated. "I'm a good guy in the side of justice."

"I-I know...T-Twilight told me about you...at least today, that is." I sighed, clutching onto my notebook. Shining Armor turned to Twilight with a confused look before asking "So you just told him about me today...when you were about to get ready to set up my wedding?"

"Well...yeah..." Twilight chuckled nervously. "Sorry about that..."

Shining looked at his sister for a moment before sighing and making a smile at her. "Well...at least you told your new friends about me." 

"Well thanks anyway..." Twilight sighed before smiling softly at him. "Well anyway...Jamie here is a very nice human and a mystery novelist."

"Wait..." He soon gazed at me with a raised brow, much to my fear. "You write mystery books?"

"Y-yes...I may not look like one, but I am a mystery novelist and a very amateur one..." I muttered, twiddling my fingers a bit. He looked at me for a while before giving me a soft smile and said "Well I'm sure you and Twily here seemed to be good friends what with your love of books, eh?"

"Y-yes sir!" I nodded, turning a bit afraid before sighing in relief. "But yes, I helped your sister at the library."

"Wait...you work with MY sister?" Uh oh! D-did I screw it up?! H-he probably thinks of me as some dirty pervert! 

"Well it's true. He's been a big help with me over by the library and he's of great knowledge with books and such. He's been very helpful." I blushed a bit at the explanation she gave. S-she really thinks that I'm helpful?

"....I see." He smiled towards me. "Well any friend of my sister is a friend of mine."

"O-oh...thank you." I smiled softly towards him. Shining Armor looked over at me with a suspicious gaze before giving me a soft smile. 

"Well...you don't look or sound like a bad pony, but I know you seemed...a nervous novelist." I slumped down in disappointment while the others gave me sympathetic looks. Oh man...you don't have to rub it in...

"So Shining..." Ren spoke up with a curious look. "What were you saying about all those Royal Guards here?"

"Yeah, what's up with that?" Kodi asked curiously. "Is this wedding so big that it requires this many of them?"

Shining Armor shook his head before making a serious look and said "It's not about the wedding. A threat has been made against Canterlot."

"A threat?" Mason asked with slightly widened eyes. 

"Yes." Shining nodded. "We don't know who's responsible for it, but Princess Celestia asked that I help provide additional protection."

"D-does it involve that shield we're seeing in the skies?" I asked in worried.

"Of course." Shining nodded with a smile. "I'll show you all!"

He closed his eyes for a moment as a weird energy started glowing on his horn and soon, it shot into the sky at the center of the shield and it began reforming itself, making itself more stronger...at least I think so.

"Whoa...!" Ren, Carrie, and Kodi smiled in awe. As soon as he was finished, he let out a gasp and put his hoof on his head, much to our worried.

"A-are you okay?" I asked in concern.

"Y-yeah..." Shining nodded. "Just a minor headache. Whenever I placed this force field spell all over the city, it affects me."

"Ah yes." I muttered loudly enough for others to hear. "Whenever a unicorn or Alicorn uses magic too much, it gives them a headache and could really give them a magical stress, which could lead to uncontrollable magic."

"Exactly!" Shining nodded with a smile, much to my surprise. "I gotta say, you sure got some knowledge despite only being in Equestria for a long while."

"O-oh! I-I didn't annoy you, did I?" I asked in worried.

"No, of course not." Shining shook his head with a light chuckle. "I say that proves that you really are great."

I couldn't help but feel surprised and happy that someone else around here appreciates my talents. Other than most of the gang, I'm really glad that no one was annoyed or tick-off by my loud muttering.

"But you know, that was pretty cool." Kodi said with a grin.

"Well..." Shining scratched behind Kodi's ears, much to his joy. "The burden of keeping Canterlot safe and secure rests squarely on my shoulders. Staying focused on the task at hoof has been my top priority."

"Kinda similar to what my big brother does." Carrie chuckled, which her brother couldn't help but nod in agreement.

"Well he did came from a family of great unicorns." Twilight grinned before turning to her brother with a worried look. "But I get it. You've got a really important job protecting all of Canterlot with a force field only you can conjure up. But still...how could you not tell me about something as big as your wedding? Am I not that important to you any more?"

Shining Armor gave his sister an amused smile before ruffling her mane and said "Hey. You're my little sister. Of course you're important to me. But I'd understand if you didn't want to be my best mare now."

Twilight froze in shock along with the rest of us as she slowly asked "You want me to be your best mare?"

"Well...yeah." Shining shrugged.

"Wow, that's a n-nice offer for your own sister." I smiled a bit before looking over at Twilight. "Though, I told you that your brother would never forget  you."

Twilight chuckled before nudging me a bit and said "Well...I guess you're right."

"Y-yeah..." I blushed a bit and looked away. Thank goodness for that...huh? I noticed her brother looked between us with a raised brow. Uh oh...W-why is he looking at us like that?

"But that's quite an honor, dude." Ren smiled before bumping fists with each other. "You know, I'm quite proud of ya for you getting married to this Princess Mi Amore Cadenza."

"You can say that again, and I think you'll be amazed by who I date, especially Twily." Shining smiled, much to Twilight's confusion.

"Really? But I don't even know who's this 'Princess Mi Amore Cadenza' is." Twilight pointed out.

"Twily, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza is Cadance, your old foalsitter." Wait what?! F-Foalsitter?! That's...surprising. I gotta say, that can't be a coincidence, right?"

"Cadance?" Twilight asked, her eyes turning into awe and excitement before making a happy grin. "As in the Cadance? As in the greatest foalsitter in all the history of foalsitters?!"

Shining chuckled before saying "You tell me. She was your foalsitter."

Twilight let out a happy gasp before exclaiming "ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!"

"Wait...Cadance?" Mason asked with a surprised look. "Shining Armor...is this Cadance a pink Alicorn and the adoptive niece of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna?"

"Yeah?" Shining nodded with a confused look. "How do you know that?"

"Because I met Cadance the last time we visited Canterlot during Twilight's birthday party." We all looked over at Mason with surprised and shocked looks. 

"Y-y-you have?!" I gasped. "B-but...why didn't you tell us?!"

"I thought it wasn't necessary and I didn't want to bother her." Mason explained. "But she did tell me that she was her foalsitter to Twilight."

"So you knew who she was this whole time?!" Twilight exclaimed in shock. However, Mason shook his head and replied "No, I haven't till now. I didn't know that her full name would be...that."

"Point taken." Ren scratched the back of his neck, sweat-dropping. "Other than that, she must be a really good friend, Eh Twi?"

"Yep! She's the greatest foalsitter ever!" Twilight laughed.

"I can vouch for that!" Shining Armor's horn glowed and out came some pictures appearing out of nowhere. He showed us a couple of pictures that showed a younger Twilight with a young pink Alicorn pony, who I think is Cadance, reading books together outside and another showing young Cadance pushing a young Twilight on a swing with happy smiles on their faces. "These are old childhood photos that we kept for a long while."

"Aww, you remember that Shining!" Twilight chuckled.

"Wow, you looked very happy..." I muttered loudly with a small smile. "You and Cadance really are close, aren't you Twilight?"

"Well duh!" I flinched upon realizing Twilight overheard me. "Me and Cadance are childhood friends, and the best foalsitter I've ever gotten!"

"Oh boy! I can't wait to see her!" Carrie jumped in excitement. "I really wanna meet her!"

"Is she really that good?" Mason questioned curiously. "We've only met for a while since Twilight's birthday, so I never gotten the chance to know her well. But I could tell she's a very sweet pony."

"She sure is..." Shining grinned before raising a brow of suspicion. "Say...you aren't...trying to hit on my special somepony, aren't you?"

"W-what?!" Mason exclaimed in shock and embarrassment. "N-no! Of course not! I have my own love back in my world and I would never steal a fellow lady from a good pony like yourself."

Shining Armor looked at him for a while before giving him a smile.

"Alright, you win. I won't suspect you on hitting on my special somepony...for now." For now? But...Mason stated that he doesn't have a thing with your lady, right?

"Well either way, I'm sure that you guys will be overjoyed and be good friends with Cadance!" Twilight assured with an excited grin.

"You...seemed to now feel excited for this wedding now, Twilight." I pointed out, sweat-dropping a little.

"Well yeah!" Twilight nodded with an excited smile. "Now that I know that it's Cadance marrying Shining, then I'm okay with that! I mean, how many unicorns can just spread love wherever they go? I only know of one!"

She began jumping in excitement before she began singing "You're marrying Cadance! You're marrying Cadance!"

"Spread...love?" Ren questioned. "What is she? A cupid?"

"What's a cupid?" Kodi asked, cocking his head to the right. 

"A cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction and affection. It's latin for 'desire and love' and is said to be the son of the love goddess Venus and the war god Mars." I explained, making everyone to stare at me in surprise. "W-what?"

"Nothing...it's just that you said something without stuttering." Ren stated. "But thanks anyway."

"T-thanks..." I muttered, looking away nervously. "S-so....when do we meet her?"

"Don't know, she should be in her room." Shining Armor replied.

"Did I hear somepony calling for me?" Huh? Who said that? "Or am I interrupting the moment?"

We turned around to see a pink pony with a horn and wings, which makes her an Alicorn like the princesses, wearing a small golden crown on her head and small golden shoes on her hooves.

"So that's Cadance?" Kodi asked in confusion and awe. "She sure looks like an angel."

"You can say that again. I guess she really is related with Celeste and Luna." Ren added, staring at her in awe as well.

"Cadance!" Twilight smiled happily before racing over and..."Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!"

.......Eh? What...was that? 

"Huh?" Carrie asked, cocking her head a bit.

"What was that?" Ren asked me, which made me sweat-dropped and shrugged before replying "I have no idea."

"Ah, Princess Cadance." Mason greeted with a soft grin as he walked over to her, ignoring Twilight's little...dance. "It is an honor to see you once more."

Princess Cadance looked at him with a raised brow before asking "What the heck are you supposed to be? Someone's pet?"

Mason widened his eyes in surprise before saying "No Princess, it's me."

"Uh-huh." She rolled her eyes. "Whatever, freak show. Out of my way."

She moved him aside before looking over Twilight and asked "And what were you doing?"

"Cadance, it's me, Twilight!" Twilight said, which made her make an uninterested look.

"Uh-huh." She scoffed before walking past her and walking over to Shining Armor. 

"I've gotta get back to my station, but Cadance will be checking in with all of you to see how things are going. I think I speak for both of us when I say we couldn't be more excited to have you here." Shining said, looking at his soon-to-be-wife with as mile. "Right, dear?"

"Absolutely!" Princess Cadance giggled, nuzzling her special somepony.

"Wow, so you're Cadance?" Carrie asked with a smile. "It's nice to meet you! I'm Carrie!"

"And I'm Ren Loodan." Ren greeted with a grin, only to received an annoyed look from Cadance. "I know, it's a weird last name but you'll get used to it. But anyway it's nice to meet you as well Cadance. I never knew you were Twilight's foalsitter."

"That's Princesss Mi Amore Cadenza." Princess Cadance scoffed, surprising Carrie and Ren. "And I have no time with a bunch of freak shows."

"U-umm, excuse me Princess Cadance?" I called, only to receive a glare from her upon hearing that name. "I-I mean, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, i-it's very nice to meet you and me and Twilight promised that we would make y-your wedding-"

"Enough of the stuttering, weirdo." I flinched in fear upon hearing what she called me. S-she doesn't have to be rude....

"I-I'm sorry." I apologized.

"No Jamie, no need to apologize." Twilight assured before giving a small glare at Princess Cadance.

"Well anyway, we better head over." Shining said with an amused smile while the rest of us looked at him surprise. Huh? But...didn't he hear what she called us before?

"Exactly!" Cadance giggled before she and Shining began taking her leave until Mason stopped them.

"Hold on, before you go...I let you know that I wished to thank you for making me the best stallion, Shining and Princess Cadance." Mason said with a smile.

"No problem, anything for a friend." Shining chuckled, only to receive a scoff from Princess Cadance.

"Don't listen to this freakish nobody, Shining dear. He's just in our way." Cadance rolled her eyes, much to Mason's surprise. "Now let's go and let him play hero somewhere else."

"Oh right. Sure." Shining Armor nodded before looking at  Mason apologetic. "Oh well, we better go. We'll see you two later, okay?"

"Umm....yes. I'll see you around, I guess." Mason nodded before looking over at Princess Cadance, who gave him a scoff before the two began taking her leave, leaving the rest of us behind.

"What was THAT all about?" Kodi questioned. "She doesn't look nice at all."

"That's because she isn't." Twilight shook her head, furrowing her brows into a glare. "I can't believe that Cadance wouldn't remember our little dance! She and I would always do that whenever we see each other in our entire lives!"

"Oh...so that's what that was." Ren said before letting out a nervous chuckle. "Though, I can't imagine a grown pony like her doing that."

"But why did she call us mean names, especially at big brother?" Carrie asked, feeling a bit sadden at that.

"That's what I'm wondering." Mason nodded, crossing his arms in thought. "She never acted like this when we last met at the book store."

"R-really?" I asked incredulous. "M-maybe...she was e-exhausted?"

"No, she didn't look exhausted." Mason shook his head.

"W-well...alright. I guess I shouldn't have upset her..." I sighed sadly, still remember her calling me a 'weirdo'. I then felt a comforting hoof on my shoulder, which made me look over at Twilight, who gave me a soft smile.

"Don't listen what she said. Just ignore her and let's just go." Twilight suggested, which made me smile a little as I nodded and replied "R-Right...okay."

"But still, what was up with that?" Kodi wondered. "I mean, Shining Armor didn't even criticize her what she called us."

"Yeah, he was even standing right next to her when she called us names and acting all arrogant." Ren added before sighing "But man...I feel like we might have another arrogant relative of Princess Celestia. Hearing her talk all mighty and such reminds me of Blueblood."

"Yeah." Carrie nodded. "I can't tell who's more mean. Blueblood or Cadance and we only just met."

"....." I noticed Mason looking over where Shining Armor and Princess Cadance were last standing at with narrowed eyes. Wonder what's in his mind? He's probably upset that he was called a freakish nobody at the last minute. W-well...I'm sure there's a reason why she did it.

"...That's can't be Cadance. She's never this mean." Huh? I looked over at Twilight, who narrowed her eyes at where Princess Cadance and Shining Armor were last standing at.

"Huh? W-what did you say Twilight?" I asked in confusion.

"Nothing." Twilight sighed heavily before she began walking away. "Come on you guys, let's go do our duties and see how the others are doing."

"O-oh...Okay." I nodded before we began heading out. Though I wonder...why did Princess Cadance or Princess Mi Amore Cadenza act that like. We only just met and she just began insulting us like that. She even thought that she never ever met Mason despite him telling us that he met us before. I-I just hope that maybe she would improve her attitude.....



Later

"Alright Jamie, let's get to work." Twilight said, handing me a clipboard.

"Y-yeah. Let's check over this wedding and see if it's good and perfect." I smiled a bit before we began heading over to our first destination: The kitchen.

So anyway, we soon began doing our jobs as me and Twilight were checking over the stuff. Ren, Kodiak, Carrie, and Mason decided to take their leave and explore more around the castle. Me and Twilight each held our own clip boards, which we became prepared before leaving for Canterlot. Right now, we headed over to the kitchen, where Applejack presided.

"Oh hey you two!" Applejack chuckled. "You both had a good time seeing the groom?"

"Yeah, something like that." Twilight sighed before smiling softly. "But anyway, we're here to see if you gotten everything ready for the wedding."

"Yes." I nodded before going over the list. "Have you made the wedding cake? Made the ice sculpture? As well as some delicious desserts made by your secret ingredients?"

Applejack let out a toothy grin before pointing over to the said items I described.

"Cake, check. Ice sculpture, check. Best darn bite-size apple fritter you ever tasted..."

Huh...looks pretty good. And now for the taste test. Me and Twilight each grabbed an apple fritter, but we chose the same one, much to our surprise.

"O-oh...you first." Twilight offered.

"No no no, I-I insist. You can have one." I pleaded with a meek smile. "I-I'll just have another one."

With that, I taken my hand off of her hoof and grabbed another one as the two of us took a bite of the apple fritters, and once we tasted it, we felt like this food was cooked by a five-star chef!

"O-oh my! This taste so good!" I exclaimed in joy. "A-amazing work, Applejack."

"No problem James!" Applejack grinned with a wink.

"Mmm. Check." Twilight smiled, marking it down on her clipboard.

"Yeah. I think maybe both the groom and bride might love it." I smiled a bit before noticing someone was playing around with the bride and groom figurines on the wedding cake. I squinted my eyes a bit before realizing that the one who was playing with them was Spike himself.

"I do. Do you? I do!" Uhh...is he playing around with the figurines? I guess I can't complain considering that Spike's a baby dragon. As he kept playing around the figurines, he soon noticed the stern looks from both Twilight and Applejack, which made him laughed nervously before placing the two figurines back onto the cake at the exact same spot.

"Well anyway..." I looked over at the checklist. "I guess that's everything. We should probably head over to the next room and-"

Suddenly, we heard the doors slammed open, startling me a bit. I looked back to see Princess Cadence, I-I mean...Princess Mi Amore Cadenza making her way with a serious look on her face.

"Hiya, Princess!" Applejack greeted.

"Please, call me Princess Mi Amore Cadenza." She's seriously making us use her full name? She doesn't have to make us do that. 

"Hiya, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza. You come to check out what's on the menu for your big day?" Applejack grinned.

"I have!" She chuckled, but I felt a bit intimidated by the way she was laughing. S-seriously...what was up with that?...And why was some chords being played when she was laughing? Soon, my thoughts were cut-off as I noticed Princess Mi Amore Cadenza taking a bite of one of Applejack's apple fritters. She widened her eyes in shock before making a nervous laughter.

"Delicious! I love-love-love them." She replied, which seemed to make Applejack happy.

"Aw, shucks. Why don't you take a few to go?" Applejack offered before squealing a bit. "I know how you brides can be. So busy, you forget to get a little something in your belly."

As Applejack kept rambling on, I saw the princess dumping the whole tray of apple fritters into the trash, causing me to widened my eyes and gasped.

"Did...you see what she..." Twilight slowly turned to me with a shocked look. 

"Y-yeah...but why did she lied to her like that?" I wondered aloud.

"That's what I'm wondering..." Twilight muttered, narrowing her eyes. "Something isn't right about her."

"O-okay...but what? Maybe she's stressful because of the t-threat?" I suggested, which made her shook her head.

"No, it's not that. It's gotta be something else..." Twilight suggested.

"Hey, what are you two talking about?" Applejack asked, which startled the both of us as we looked back to her, who gave us a confused look before taking out another batch of apple fritters from the oven. 

"N-nothing!" I exclaimed. "W-we'll be taking our leave!"

"Exactly!" Twilight nodded before the two of us immediately took our leave. 

"Well bye you two!" Applejack shouted as the two of us decided to keep it between ourselves and headed over to our next destination: The wedding dress.

As soon as we entered the next room, we saw Kaede and Rarity working on the wedding dress while Rosy the cat was being playing with a ball of yarn. 

"H-hey you guys." I greeted, gaining their attention. 

"Ah! Jamie! Twilight! You two are just in time!" Kaede smiled happily. "We were just about to get you guys and tell you that the dress is finally finished."

"It took about an hour or so, but we managed to do it." Rarity giggled. "I can't wait for Princess Mi Amore Cadenza to actually like it!"

"A-an hour?" I asked in surprise before realizing who I was talking about. "W-well...it's understandable considering you two have a grand knowledge on fashion sense."

"Thanks Jamie!" Kaede giggled. "I just can't wait for the princess to like our work!"

"Same here Kaede darling." Rarity giggled.

"W-well...it does look...stunning." I stated with an soft smile. "I-I'm sure she might love it...I guess."

"Yeah...she'll really love it." Twilight said sarcastically, much to our surprise. Though...I guess I know why she's acting like this.

"Twilight darling, what's going on?" Rarity asked in concern.

"Oh, you should have seen how she acted back there. I don't know when she changed, but she changed!" Twilight complained before she began mimicking Princess Mi Amore Cadenza. "Please, call me Princess Mi Amore Cadenza."

"Come on, I mean the princess can't be that mean, right?" Kaede wondered aloud.

"W-well...she did insulted me and the others when we met up with her and Shining Armor..." I muttered, much to Kaede's shock.

"Oh my god! Seriously?!" Kaede gasped. "I can't believe it...I just hope that she doesn't act like Blueblood."

"Doesn't act like who now?" Ah! We turned around to see Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and three mares wearing bridesmaid outfits, which I assumed are the bridesmaids, entering the room with the princess having a serious look on her face. 

"Oh! Your highness!" Rarity cut in, deciding to change the subject. "Let me just start by saying what an honor it is to play a role in such a momentous occasion." 

She let out a nervous laughter, much to her annoyance.

"Uh-huh. Is my dress ready?" She asked.

"Yeah! It's finally finished!" Kaede nodded, earning a look from the princess as she asked "And what the heck are you supposed? A monkey?"

Kaede stiffed at that before smiling nervously at her with a sweat-dropped.

"N-no...I'm a human. My name is Kaede Ross and-"

"Yeah, I don't get care." She scoffed. "Show me my wedding dress."

Kaede furrow her brows a bit before she began heading her way towards a covered up mannequin.

"Right..." Kaede sighed. "Well anyway, it took about an hour but we finally managed to do!"

"Yes, of course!" Rarity nodded in agreement. "Um, we've been working on it ever since we were given the assignment, and I think you'll be pleased with the results! Mmm!"

The moment they uncovered the sheets, they revealed the wedding dress. Oh my...it looks amazing. It was fully white and beautiful with style. It was like an actual wedding dress and one of those expensive dresses that one of my sisters bought once.

But...I'm afraid someone else has a different opinion on that.

"I was hoping for something with more beading and a longer train." Princess Mi Amore Cadenza stated. 

"Oh, yes, of course." Rarity nodded in understanding while Kaede looked at her in surprise.

"And those should be on a different color." She added while the bridesmaids examined the wedding dress.

"I think they're lovely."

"Me too!"

"I love them!"

The princess glared over at the three bridesmaids, causing them to smile sheepishly. She looks back at Kaede and Rarity and firmly said "Make them a different color and that's an order!"

"W-wait!" Kaede called. "We worked like an hour on it. It's one of our best works!"

"And now you're going to have to make it good enough for my eyes to see again!" She scoffed. "Now get back to work, monkey!"

Kaede was taken back at that insult before glaring at her as the princess and her bridesmaids began to take her leave.

"Gee, maybe her name should be 'Princess Demandy-pants.'" Twilight rolled her eyes.

I looked at where she was standing with a worried and....suspicion. I don't know why...but there's something off about her. No, it's probably just my imagination.

"I can't believe it...she didn't have to insult me like that." Kaede whined. 

"No need to be sad, Kaede. I am sure that she didn't mean what she said to you." Rarity assured, patting her on the back. Kaede looked back at her with a soft smile while me and Twilight looked at each other with worried.

"Come along Jamie, let's go." Twilight sighed.

"R-right...okay." I nodded before the two of us began taking our leave, wishing our goodbyes to our friends. I can't believe Princess Mi Amore Cadenza would insult Kaede like that...I actually kinda like the dress and the way it was.



Later
Nicole's POV
....Okay, this looks pretty weird. After Pinkie dragged me into one of the giant hallways of the castle, she instantly got to work and somehow managed to create the whole place in style. She somehow did it in just five minutes so fast.

"Ooh! Ooh! Do you like it Nikki! Do ya? Do ya? Do ya?!" Pinkie appeared right next to me, causing me to feel surprise but I'm sure you all know that I didn't show it.

"...It looks pretty okay...I think." I shrugged before looking over at my iPad.

"Aww come on NIkki! You don't look that amazed!" Pinkie complained, sitting right next to me. "I brought you over to help out but you just keep not expressing your emotions more! In fact, my sister Maud knows how to be more optimistic but seeing you here..." She lets out a sad sigh. "It doesn't."

"I'm not good enough to show off my emotions despite being a psychologist." I explained, looking over at the data on my iPad. "All I do is listen to people's problems every time I get an appointment from them and find a solution to solve it. I was also known for my research about analytical psychology...." I looked over at Pinkie Pie, who was smiling at me for no reason. "...And you do not understand everything I said, right?"

"Nope! Not at all!" Pinkie shook her head, causing me to sigh a little before looking over at her iPad. "But you know, you keep looking over at that weird device thingy all day long, don't you ever get tired?"

"Not really." I replied with a light shrug. "I'm just analyzing on the situation that we are in."

"Analyzing?" She cocked her head to the right, causing me to adjust my glasses a bit.

"I am just curious about this place that I'm trying to figure out where we could possibly be." I explained.

"That's a silly question, Nikki!" Pinkie giggled. "We're in Equestria!"

"I know where we are, I want to know where we are." I clarified, only to see her to form a more confused look on her face. "...Never mind...you don't get it."

"Well maybe I don't, but you know..." She gave me a comforting smile. "I really want to help ya Nikki! I want to help ya and the others to get back home so that you can see all your friends and families again!"

"Friends? I have no friends and I guess my family would miss me." I sighed. And don't get me started on that subject....

"Then...what about your family?" I looked away from the subject, hoping not to show the tiniest bit of emotion. I just never experienced what those emotions would be because I don't wish for people to sympathize me because they don't understand me...

Before I could give her a reply, we heard the door opening, revealing to be Rantaro entering the place.

"Well well well, if it isn't Li'l miss emo girl and party popper." Of course he would come up with weird nicknames.

"Wait, I'm confused. Which one is little miss emo girl and party popper?" Pinkie asked curiously.

"Of course you wouldn't infer on those nicknames." Rantaro rolled his eyes before taking a seat. "So what are you two doing? And I have to say that I'm quite surprised that you both finished so quickly."

"Pinkie did all the hard work. I did nothing I could do." I sighed, looking over my iPad.

"Sure you did Nikki, you helped oversee things with your iPad!" Wait...how does that help out? I was busy analyzing the stuff. "But anyway Ran, we were discussing about family and friends!"

"Ooh?" He asked, feeling intrigued by it. "Well that's something I wished to learn more about."

"Please leave me alone." I begged with narrowed eyes. "There's nothing interesting of me to talk about."

"You can't keep hiding away from some bad stuff that happened to ya in the past." Rantaro stated. "Trying to run off from your problems and not experiencing life to its full potential isn't something to feel glad about."

"Oh really?" I asked, raising a brow. "Does that also imply to you?"

"In a way, yes." Rantaro shrugged before leaning a chair with his feet crossed. "So tell me, got any friends waiting for ya back home?"

"No." I answered bluntly. "I'm not good with having close relationships with people in my life."

"What?!" Pinkie gasped. "You never ever had a single friend?!"

"Yeah." I nodded while Pinkie looked at me in shock before she began crying in tears...in a rather dramatic way.

"WAAAAHHHHH! I FEEL SO TERRIBLE FOR YOU NIKKI!" Pinkie whined.

"There's no need to cry. I guess I was destined to be left alone." I shrugged, causing her to stop her tears and looked at me in surprise. "I'm not good with relationships, and I guess the same goes for my parents...I never saw them ever since they both died in a plane crash."

"R-really?" Pinkie asked, horrified by that. "So..."

"Yes...they're dead." I answered, taking off my glasses and cleaning off the lenses. "It happened when I was a kid. Since then, I focused on my studies on psychology and has been doing so well that I became quite famous for my research on analytical psychology."

"Really? So did you happen to get a college degree on a young age?" Rantaro asked curiously.

"Yep. At the age of 14." I answered, much to their shock.

"14?!" Pinkie gasped before making an excited smile. "That's amazing Nikki! I'm so proud of ya! You must be that super duper smart like Twilight and Jamie!"

"I wouldn't say that I'm THAT smart." I shrugged. "But...I don't like to talk about it. The point is...I'm not good enough to make friends and I never thought much on my family."

"....Do you ever wish that they would still stay with you to this point?" Hm? I looked over at Rantaro, who was looking away from our sights as he was gazing at the ceiling. "What I mean is that do you really think that you could just let go of something that easily on someone's death? Especially your parents?"

I didn't respond before closing my eyes and sighed "Well...I sometimes think of them, and yet I try not to. I just never express much emotions because of my keen observation skills on studying human emotion and sensing what they're feeling. I try not to show too much emotion because, frankly...I don't wish people to make fun of me. Plus, I thought it gives off a cool vibe on a cool person for you all to lean on."

"True, but what's the point?!" Pinkie exclaimed, much to my confusion. "Barely showing emotion is...so bogus! You should try and have fun more! Show off more of your emotions! Make more bonds with others!"

"You mean like you?" Rantaro asked with an annoyed glance towards her. 

"Exactly Ran!" Pinkie nodded. "You need to cry over for someone to comfort you when you're feeling so sad! You need to keep on smiling and stay positive and things that makes you wanna be happy! You need to get angry on when ponies try to make you upset and irritated! Next you need to show...well pretty much any emotion you feel to make yourself feel real! To make yourself feel like a real friend!"

"But why?" I asked in confusion. "I practically know what others are about to say."

"Then why didn't you say what she was gonna say earlier?" Rantaro asked, taunting me a bit which made look at him with slightly narrowed eyes.

"See! Those slightly narrowed eyes the writer just described right now showed you that you can show off more of your anger!" Pinkie exclaimed with a light chuckle, causing me to widened my eyes before I looked away with my gaze directly at my iPad and a light blush forming on my face.

"I-I'm sure that was an exaggeration..." I sighed. "Besides, you guys wouldn't be interested in me about my parents or my past."

"....Hey listen Nicole." Hm? I gazed over at Rantaro, who leaned back down with a serious look on his face. "Just don't keep holding back your emotions. Hiding who you are isn't gonna be easy, and I know you aren't the type to do that. Just....trust what your heart tells you. Trust the others, that way...they could trust you."

"Hm?" Strange....he acted so cocky, a lot arrogant, taunting and yet sneaky. But what he said...he's being all serious on when I said about the subject of parents and past. Hmm...I should study him more later.

"Hey you guys!" Hm? We looked over to see Ren, Fluttershy, Kodiak, and a bunch of hummingbirds coming into the party room. "Whoa, I gotta say that you guys really went super well on this room!"

"It's nothing! It's just what we do!" 

"What?" I looked over at Pinkie Pie, who gave me a wink while I blinked in surprise. 

"So what are you guys doing?" Rantaro sighed. "And hurry please. I don't like my time being wasted."

"You never like your time being wasted." Kodi pointed out, which made the broker rolled his eyes.

"We're doing alright. We're doing a little promise with my hummingbirds choir." Fluttershy explained. "I think the princess will like it very well."

"Are you kidding? She's gonna be amazed by it!" Ren chuckled with a grin. 

You know, it's understandable why he's always so optimistic like Pinkie Pie, but for a teenager at the age of 16, he's so...childish.

"What the heck am I looking at?" We looked over to see a pink pony princess walking into the room with a bewildered look on her face. "This is supposed to be the party room?"

"What? You're annoyed?" Rantaro asked with a raised brow.

"Exactly, freak show." She scoffed. 

"Of course!" Pinkie nodded with an excited look. "I mean, we've gone over with the games..." She held a bunch of dice and rattling them around before throwing them on a nearby board game that I don't know where she got that. "The dances..."

She began making some weird dance around us, which I guess it's tap-dancing in a way while Princess Mi Amore Cadenza wore an annoyed look on her face.

"So? I think this reception is gonna be perfect! Don't you?" Pinkie asked excitedly.

"Perfect!" She nodded with a fake smile before scoffing "...If we were celebrating a six-year-old's birthday party."

Pinkie let out a dramatic gasp before smiling over her and said "Thank you!"

"She was being sarcastic." I pointed out.

"But...Twilight said that you don't mind doing that." Ren pointed, earning a glare from the princess.

"I told you before to shut up freak show." Princess Mi Amore Cadenza scoffed. "I don't need you or what that purple cre...I-I mean pony said. It's MY wedding, meaning that I can make my own rules! Now shut up and beat it!

Ah!....I stared at the princess with a shocked look while Rantaro looked at her with narrowed eyes. She soon noticed us staring at her and asked "What? Too jealous to admire my beauty?"

".....What...are you?" I asked, much to her surprise.

"What are you talking about?" She asked with a raised brow. 

"You know what? Just...never mind." I sighed before I began taking my leave. "I'll see you all later...."

"Whatever...Goodbye." I sighed before taking my leave while Ren and the others watched me leave.

"Yeah, same here." With that, I saw Rantaro taking his leave, following after me as the two of us walked out of the door and closed it behind us. Soon, we looked at each other and decided to talk about it.

"So...I bet you saw that too, right?" I questioned, which he nodded.

"Hey, even a good lie that she came up with can't be oversee by my eyes." Rantaro giggled.

"I gotta say, you're quite good identifying lies. Really good ones." I said, impressed by his ability.

"What can I say? I'm the master of lies woman." Rantaro giggled, which made me rolled my eyes. "So what do you say about her?"

"Well...I noticed that her personality for off for a pony in that sort of style." I explained. "Her voice and emotions...it felt different like...I don't know what to describe it..."

"Really?" Rantaro asked, scratching his chin in thought. "Hmm...something's off with her. If I were you, I say keep an eye out for her."

"Right..." I nodded before I began taking my way. "But I just hope that you don't do anything too stupid and reckless."

"Woman, you don't know the half of it." Of course I wouldn't...anyway, it's best if I take my leave now. With that, I waved goodbye and began looking over at my iPad while I still thought over what I heard from the princess's voice. It seemed pretty off...I felt greed, power, lust of vengeance like...a monster....

"W-whoa!" 

"Ah!" I shook my head as I nearly fell off, and almost dropped my iPad as I looked over to see a random Pegasi Royal Guard accidentally bumping into me. He gave me a scared look before chuckling nervously.

"S-sorry...I didn't mean to bumped into you..." Hm? Strange...this guard seems different unlike the other guards. "P-please....I'll...just take my leave."

"....Okay." I shrugged before the both of us began taking our leave. I looked back at him with a curious look before looking over at my iPad. Whatever, I'm sure it's nothing., but for some reason...it's best not to lower my guards on the princess...nor that guard. 



Later
Jamie's POV
Well...this is officially a bad day for us overseeing the wedding like Princess Celestia wants us to do. We all were inside of the kitchen as we all discussed what we've been through. Jack finished up with his afternoon nap and was busy picking his ear, much to Rarity's disgust.

"Bet I can guess what you're all thinking." Twilight spoke up with an annoyed look. "Cadance is the absolute worst bride-to-be ever!"

"Who, me?" Spike asked in a high-pitched voice, playing around with the...what the?

"Spike...where did you get those?" I asked in confusion.

"Spike, doesn't that bride and groom figurines go on the cake?" Mason questioned with a raised brow. 

"Uhh...maybe?" Spike chuckled nervously.

"I know right?" Kaede asked. "Me and Rarity worked so hard on her wedding dress and she gave off a disgusted look on her face when she was describing it."

"What ever do you mean Kaede?" Rarity asked. "Cadance is an absolute gem!"

"...We are talking about the same pony, right?" Rantaro asked with a light scoff.

"But...she didn't even care about our dress and demanded it into her own image instead of how we liked it." Kaede pointed out.

"See? She was acting so mighty like she was queen or something!" Twilight agreed. "She was so demanding!"

"Well, of course she is!" Rarity stated. "Why shouldn't she expect the very best on her wedding day?"

"W-well...I supposed so..." I muttered.

"Applejack, did you know that after she told you how much she just 'love-love-loved' your hors d-eoveres, she threw them in the trash?" Twilight told her, which made her shrug with a smile and replied "Aw, she was probably just trying to spare my feeeings."

"Wait what?!" Jack exclaimed, widening his eyes in shock before getting up from his seat. "You're frigging telling me that bit-sized namby bamby pony just selfishly threw away some apple fritters?! The hell?!"

"I know, right?" Carrie nodded. "I mean, they taste so good! Who wouldn't like them?!"

"Come on everypony, it's okay." Applejack assured. "You should know that not everypony is gonna like something."

"You seemed pretty calm due to your love of apples." Nicole stated with a raised brow.

"Well I'm just darn excited for this wedding, that's all." Applejack chuckled. "You should know that-"

"It's your first time doing something by making your secret family ingredients in a big event such as this, right?"

Applejack stared at Nicole for a moment with a slightly surprised look before replying "Y-yeah...what you said."

"No you guys, she was just being fake and totally insincere!" Twilight exclaimed angrily.

"T-Twilight...please calm down!" I pleaded. "I-I'm sure she's being so stressful. Maybe because of the....you know."

"No, it has to be something else." Twilight shook her head before rubbing her chin in thought. "But what is making her act so....rude?"

"Well she did raise her voice at one of Fluttershy's birds during the rehearsal." Ren stated.

"See? Rude!" Twilight beamed at this until Fluttershy retorted it.

"Although, he was singing really off-key." To prove this, Fluttershy gestured the hummingbird on her hoof to sing, and it turns out, he really was singing low-key.

"Hmm...I suppose so that is true." I nodded, writing it down in my notebook. "But....she was acting all mean. She even insulted me and the others for a lot."

"I have to agree." Mason nodded. "And plus, she never acted like this before. She was nice and kind and generous like Rarity, in a way."

"Ahh, thanks Mason." Rarity giggled before raising a brow at him and asked "And what do you mean 'in a way'?"

Mason glanced away before clearing his throat and said "Uhh...I plead the fifth on that."

"It's true. She's been insulting Ren and the others all day long when we were helping out on the wedding." Kodiak stated. "Maybe Twilight might be onto something."

"Thank you!" Twilight sighed in relief.

"B-but Twilight...maybe if we ask her what's wrong, she'll surely t-tell us?" I suggested, only to flinch in her glare before sighing.

"She probably would insult you again." Twilight scoffed.

"She's probably just being too stressed out." Applejack suggested. "You know, like Jamie said earlier."

"Well still..." Twilight turned to Nicole with a serious look and asked "Nicole, you and Pinkie would have noticed how Cadance treated you two like that earlier."

"....." Nicole went silent on that before gazing at Pinkie Pie, who was busy playing with Spike on those bride and groom figurines, making kissing noises and laughing together. Umm...someone should probably stop them before they break those figurines. You should know that they're expensive to buy...at least in my family that is.

"Let's just say...she's demanding." Nicole said bluntly.

"See? Looks like some of these guys actually think I'm right!" Twilight grinned in a boastful way.

"Twilight, I'm sure it's nothing." Applejack assured, much to Twilight's annoyance.

"Well..." Twilight turned to Rainbow Dash, who was busy leaning on the chair she was sitting. "Rainbow Dash, you're with me, right?"

"Sorry, Twi. Been too busy prepping for my Sonic Rainboom to pay much attention to the bride's bad attitude."

Twilight lets out a frustrated growl, causing me to feel really worried for her.

"The princess is about to get married. I'm sure any negative behavior she might be displaying is simply the result of nerves." Rarity assured.

"Well she was insulting us all whenever we see her." Ren stated. "She's act like Blueblood."

Rarity let out a disgusted scowl before saying "Please don't ever remind me of that simpleton's name and don't you ever dare compared Princess Cadance to that imbecile!"

"Alright! Alright! I won't!" Ren raised his hands in surrender, sweat-dropping a little.

"Now now Rarity. Calm down." Mason patted her on the back with a soft smile.

"Although, she kept calling us names and even called my big brother a freakish nobody." Carrie added.

"I'm sure she didn't mean that." Applejack assured.

"God, you ponies are so stupid and naive..." I heard Rantaro muttered with him rolling his eyes.

"But you guys!" Twilight stomped her hoof on the ground, frightening me a bit with that. "I'm sure it's the result of being an awful pony who doesn't deserve to even know Shining Armor, let alone marry him!"

"Think maybe you're being just a tiny bit possessive of your brother?" Applejack questioned with a raised brow, which the other girls nodded in agreement while Ren and the others looked at each other uncertainty. 

"I am not being possessive, and I amnot taking it out on Cadance! You're all just too caught up in your wedding planning to notice that maybe there shouldn't even be a wedding!" Twilight slammed her hooves on the table, much to the other's shock. She soon turned to me and asked "You believe me, right Jamie?"

"U-umm...well..." I looked over to see everyone staring at me, wondering what my decision would be. "I-I....I....Well....I don't know...."

"Ugh!" Twilight growled as she began taking her leave, much to my surprise. "Fine then! It was wrong to ask of you Jamie!"

"N-no wait! Twilight!" I begged, trying to call out to her but she was already gone. "T-Twilight! I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to-"

"Just let her gone." I looked over at Rainbow Dash, who was shrugging like it was nothing. "It's simply another Twilight thing she's going through."

"Rainbow Dash is right. Just let her calm down and she'll be fine." Rarity assured. "I mean, surely she would understand what she done."

"A-A Twilight thing?" I asked in confusion.

"Basically, I think they mean that she tends to exaggerate a lot." Kodiak explained. "I guess it's understandable since she once went too far what with using that 'Want it Need it' spell on me once."

"Wait what?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"The hell's a 'Want it Need it' spell?" Jack questioned.

"It's a looong story." Ren said. "But...I can't help but feel like that we should still help her."

"Ren, just drop it." Applejack rolled her eyes. "She'll be fine."

"But still..." Mason spoke up, crossing his arms with a serious look. "There's something off going on here and I think Twilight might have a point."

"Don't worry, let relax." Rarity assured. I looked over where Twilight was and felt sadden that I couldn't side with her. I feel so useless....

"Huh? Is there something wrong Jamie?" Fluttershy asked, making the others looked at me with worried looks.

"I-it's nothing...I'm just self-loathing..." I explained with a heavy sigh.

"Self-loathing? What do you mean?" Ren asked in confusion.

"It's just that...I feel so useless...everyone is doing so well...and Twilight is so upset do to what Cadance...I-I mean Princess Mi Amore Cadenza done what with all her demanding and rudeness, along with insulting the rest of us." I explained sadly. "I...feel so unreliable..."

"Ooh, so Twilight made you all bummed out?" Rainbow Dash shrugged.

"N-no! Of course not!" I shook my head. "I...I made her feel so upset...I'm sorry if I'm wasting your time...I should just go..."

"Jamie, come on." Kaede said with a concern look. "We're not being rude and all that. You're just discussing what you're feeling, that's all. We all don't mind."

"R-really?" I asked.

"Hell yeah." Jack nodded, patting me on the back real hard, causing me to wheeze out. "Just relax and maybe we might be able to make her feel better."

"I-I hope....I just...." I silenced myself before looking down sadly. I can't say it to them...they might laugh at me. They've accepted Ren and Fluttershy's relationship because of his optimistic, naive, honest, and straight-forward personality. What would they say if a useless novelist who can't be reliable to anyone dates a purple unicorn mage who is the protege of one of the rulers of Equestria. 

"What? What is it?" Kodi asked curiously.

"I-it's nothing...I just want to be left alone for a while..." I sighed before I began to take my leave. "I'll be back for the wedding rehearsal....hopefully...."

"Hey, come on man." Ren said, getting up from his seat and placing a comfortable hand on my shoulder. "I understand how you're feeling right now what with Cadance acting so...rude and mean all today. But I'm sure she'll act nicer to us....though I supposed it is weird and I can't help but feel strange when I'm around her....but I'm sure it's nothing. Just relax a bit and stay confident and strong, man?"

You say that, but....are you sure I can stay confident? I've been exercising with you, Mason, and Jack for a long while, but...I'm still not ready.

"Yeah! We're all friends in this!" Carrie said excitedly. "As long as we stick together like glue! We'll always have each other's back!"

If what you say is true...then I'll try and have faith in you all. I just know that...

"O-okay..." I nodded with a meek smile before I began taking my leave and let out a heavy sigh. Man...this sucks. Not only is Twilight upset, but the others are having doubts and dismissing her thoughts because it's a 'Twilight thing' and it's practically normal. Well...I say that there's got to be something else other than that, right? Well...I should try and cheer her up....hmm...maybe...I could write her a poem? Yeah...that'll cheer her up....Yeah, yeah...



Later
So where is she anyway? I looked around the place, but no luck. I've searched around the castle, every corridor, every hallway, but it would seem that I can't find her anyway. Maybe...she went to go and check up on her brother and her old foalsitter. Maybe she's finally coming to terms that maybe Princess Mi Amore Cadenza isn't as rude...maybe?

Although, I gotta admit that I've done an excellent job on making this poem. I've worked very hard on it while searching out for her, and I am very proud of myself for making it. It's in one of my journal entries and I placed each of my sections with bookmarks. That way, I can know which entree of mine is. I hope Twilight would finally listen out to me...and I can try to be brave and stay confident....yeah...I can do it!

As I continued to walk around the hall, I finally found who I was looking for.

"Ah...Twilight." I smiled softly upon seeing her. I then began feeling the nerves entering through my body. "U-umm...I was wondering if you..."

"Jamie, shh!" Twilight hushed me, much to my disappointment. "I'm trying to listen in on my brother and Cadance's conversation."

"What?" I asked in confusion. "W-why are you doing that? I-I think it's very rude to do that!"

"Oh my Celestia!" Twilight exclaimed in shock, widening her eyes.

"T-T-Twilight!" I asked in shock. 

"No! Look at it!" Twilight's horn began to glow, forcing me to see what was going on through the keyhole. 

"N-no! Please don't!" I begged, trying to force myself from looking at what I was gonna see. I tried to but I was forced to look over it by force as I watched what was occurring inside of the room and what I witnessed....truly shocked and confused me at the same time.

What I saw was Princess Mi Amore Cadenza using some sort of mystic green beam directly at Shining Armor while he stood there with a dumbfounded look on his face, and his eyes were all green...like he was being mind-controlled!

"A-A-A-A-A-A-" Before I could let out a scream, Twilight shushed me by covering her hoof with my mouth. She shook her head before pulling me away from the doorknob as the two of us talked out what I've witnessed.

"What was that?!" I exclaimed in worried.

"I have no clue, but I knew I was right! She really is evil!" Twilight exclaimed with a grin. "Now I can prove to the others that I was right all along about her!"

"W-w-w-wait!" I pleaded. "Let's talk this through...I-I'm not sure about that Twilight..."

"What? Why?!" Twilight asked with an bewildered look. "We have proof! Plus, you saw it too, right? Then we can use your eyewitness testimony to show that Cadance is evil!"

"T-Twilight, please!" I begged, feeling a bit angry yet worried about this. "I-I know you're feeling shocked and angry over at the princess's behavior, but please don't take it out on her!"

"Are you siding with her?!" Twilight exclaimed with a raised brow before forming an angry look at me. "Why are you siding with her Jamie?! Don't you see that she did something to my brother! You can't say that can't be something else!"

"W-well...umm...." I twiddled my fingers nervously, feeling afraid on what I might say. "W-well....I think if we find out what kind of spell she used, then maybe we might suspect her or not. O-or...well...I'm sorry..."

"...I can't believe it." Twilight growled a bit. "I finally have evidence that might prove why Cadance is acting so strange this entire time and you're doubting me! I trust you Jamie! How could you not trust me?!"

"N-no...I'm not saying that!" I shook my head with a worried look. "P-please Twilight! T-think this through....please Twilight...I-I don't want to accuse someone unless we find out more and we can't just jump on conclusions."

"I am not jumping into conclusions!" Twilight exclaimed, stomping her hoof on the ground. "I want to get to the bottom of this! Would you stop acting so nervous all of a sudden and just believe what I saw?!"

I couldn't help but flinched in fear before feeling extremely nervously, wondering what to do.

"W-w-well....I should...well...I...I don't know..." I sighed, slumping down sadly from her look.

"....I see. Fine, it's okay." Twilight sighed. "I'm gonna go and tell the others about this! I'm gonna show everypony how evil Cadance is and how right I was! And you'll see how right I was."

"N-no wait! Twilight! Stop!" I called, but she ignored me and kept going. 

With that, Twilight was out of the corridor before looking back at me with a sad look while I still kept my head down with a sad look. I felt as if she was nowhere around as I stayed behind and sad sighly. 

I'm...so unreliable. I couldn't even go through a good conversation with her. I'm so...useless....

.....N-no! I shouldn't be crying! I should try and stop this! Twilight is only gonna ruin things for everyone and I have to do something! With that, I sprinted out of the hallway and decided to follow after Twilight before it's too late!



Later
Ren's POV

Man, it's been such a long day. I wonder if Jamie and Twilight are alright. Well maybe Jamie took my advice and could possibly talk with Twilight about her issues with the wedding, mainly her brother and Cadance. I'm still wondering something about the princess because if she really is nervous, then why does she like insulting me and my friends. It's just a thought, but...I can't help but wonder...

"Hey Ren!" Hm? I looked over to see Kodiak pointing over to see the girls were getting ready for the rehearsal. "Looks like they're all ready to begin."

"Oh right, I guess that's our cue to." I grinned before petting him on the head. "Good luck Kodi, I'm sure you and Spike will do great as holding the wedding rings."

Kodi smiled happily before nuzzling my leg and said "Thank Ren! I promise that we'll do our best!"

I nodded in agreement before heading over with the boys. Oh right, in case you don't know is that we're practicing for the wedding rehearsal. Apparently, Cadance made the girls her bridesmaids while Shining, like Princess Celestia told us in the mail, made us our Best Stallions for the wedding...well more like Best Man in the wedding, but whatever. Now then, let's get this wedding rehearsal started. We all soon stood at the end of the door while Shining himself stood next to Princess Celestia with a smile on his face.

"Can you believe that Cadance made us her bridesmaids?" Rarity asked in an excited tone.

"I know, right?" Rainbow Dash chuckled. "This wedding is so gonna be awesome!"

"Speak for yourself, we're THE Best Stallions of this wedding." Jack laughed. "Good thing I woke up for this to start!"

"Yeah, and you're about to do one useful thing for once." Jack glared over at Rantaro, who glanced away while leaning against the wall. "Count me out, not interested in it."

"Really? Even though you're one of the Best Stallions in the wedding?" Mason questioned with a raised brow.

"If their world is similar to our world, then I know how it goes." Rantaro shrugged. "I've been many weddings as long as I remember?"

"S-seriously?!" Kaede gaped at that. "How did someone like you ever get into weddings?"

"Girl, you don't know who you're talking to." And...I rather not find out how. But I'm surprised that he actually go to weddings. But if I had to guess, he either conned to get into it, or possibly even blackmail them into making a deal. 

"Tch, of course." Jack snorted before scratching his butt. "Oh well, it's none of my business anyway."

"Good choice." Mason whispered to him, which made Jack grinned at that.

"Say you guys?" Carrie called from the side of the hall with the girls. "Where's Nicole? I thought she would be here."

"Don't know." I shrugged. "She wasn't here till after we all departed after talking with Twilight and Jamie."

"I haven't seen her either." Spike added. "She wasn't around when we arrive here to the wedding hall as well."

"Huh....that's weird." Rantaro muttered. "Wonder where the hell did she go then..."

Me too...I mean, sure Nicole isn't the easiest person to get along with what with her knowing what we're about to say by mouth movement, and such. But still...

"Do you think she's alright?" Fluttershy asked in worried.

"I'm sure she's fine." Rarity assured. "She's...probably resting in one of the spare rooms Princess Celestia gave to us."

"I...suppose so." Fluttershy nodded.

"So what now?" Kodi asked curiously.

"I guess we should start." I shrugged before seeing Princess Celestia walking in with a smile on her face. "Oh hey Celeste, are you ready to start?"

"I am quite already, Ren." Princess Celestia chuckled. "Thank you for asking."

"So we all need to start like how any wedding starts off, right?" Mason questioned.

"Yes. Now then...formed a horizontal line with the mares first, and in the back, a horizontal line with the stallions or men in your case." Princess Celestia instructed us, which we nodded before we began heading our way to prepare ourselves for the wedding.

All of us, except Rantaro, did what the princess instructed and began practicing for the wedding. Soon, the girls began walking up first with confident smiles on their faces. The girls consisted of Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Kaede, and Carrie as they walked over to the princess.

"Perfect, girls. No need to rush. And now the boys..." We nodded before we walked over with smiles on our faces. The boys consist of me, Mason, and Jack only since Rantaro wasn't interested and also because Jamie wasn't here since he went off to talk with Twilight. Then of course, Cadance will enter." Princess Celestia said as she stood next to Kodi and Spike, each holding a pillow that contained the wedding rings for the bride and groom. "Perfect boys. Then of course, Cadance will enter."

With that, a couple of Royal Guards opened the doors for Cadance to entered as she walked towards to Shining Armor, who slightly jaw-dropped in awe upon seeing how beautiful she was. I let out a chuckle upon seeing that and nudging Mason, which made him smile softly.

"I'll say a few words, and then we'll begin with the vows. Now then Shining Armor..." Princess Celestia turned to him and said "You'll get the ring from your best mare after she takes it from Kodiak's pillow."

Kodiak heard his name called up as he wagged his tail in excitement, but not before I noticed Cadance making a disgusting scowl that nobody seemed to hear. What the? What's wrong with her? She doesn't like dogs, right? Well...I supposed that there are some ponies in this world who don't share the same liking like me, and that's a love with dogs.

"Do you? I do!" I looked over to my left to see Spike messing around with the wedding cake figurines, which made me shook my head in amusement. I can't say I like him messing around with them, he sometimes acts like my sister...in a way of course.

"Umm....has anyone seen Twily?" Shining Armor asked, looking around to see that Twilight isn't around.

"Not only that, Jamie isn't here either." Mason stated. "He's probably looking for her right now since we last spoken with each other."

"Meh, I bet they're fine." Jack waved it off before we heard the doors slammed, revealing to be a very angry looking Twilight as she stomped her way towards us. 

I let out a smile and said "Hey Twi, where's Ja-"

"I'm here! I'm not gonna stand next to her! And neither should you!" Twilight cut me off as she pointed her hoof towards Cadance, who felt really worried all of a sudden as Shining Armor tried to comfort her.

"I'm sorry, I...I don't know why she's acting like this." Neither do I! What's going on with ya, Twi? 

"Maybe we should just ignore her." Cadance suggested.

"You have to listen to me!" Twilight yelled.

"Why? What's going on?" Kaede asked in worried.

"Oh, goodness! Are you okay?" Fluttershy asked, looking at Twilight with a nervous look.

"I'm fine."

"You sure about that?" Applejack questioned with a raised brow.

"Yeah, you look like a steaming bull or Jack." I added, ignoring the raised brow from the biker standing next to me.

"Twilight wait!" We looked over to see Jamie immediately breaking into the room with a tired yet worried look on his face as Twilight continued "I've got something to say! She's evil!"

We all looked at each other in shock and surprise, wondering what Twilight was going on about.

"T-Twilight! Please! We don't k-know that for sure!" Jamie pleaded, but Twilight ignored him as she continued "She's been horrible to my friends, she's obviously done something to her bridesmaids, and if that wasn't enough, I saw her put a spell on my brother that made his eyes go all..." 

She made her eyes make a derpy look while Cadance stared at Twilight in shock before she began whimpering and then...the water works began happening.

"Why are you doing this to me?!" Cadance demanded.

"Because you're evil!" Twilight exclaimed as Cadance continued to cried while we stood there in shock. As I looked over, I noticed Mason and Rantaro staring at her with narrowed eyes. I looked over and saw how tearful Cadance but...she sure seems to cry a lot. All because of her accusations that Twilight is making. "Evil! And if I don't stop you, you're gonna ruin my brother's life!"

She began crying before she began running away from the hall while Jamie watched in horror.

"T-Twilight!" Jamie turned to her with a serious look. "W-why did you do that? W-we don't know that f-for sure if she was!"

"Of course she was! She was evil this whole time! She's not the Cadance I used to remember!" Twilight argued.

"But t-that doesn't mean that you should accuse her without any proof!" Jamie retorted.

"I know what I say and it's the truth! You even saw it for yourself, Jamie!"

"I-I know, but I-I'm sure there's a logical explanation for all that!"

"Whatever! I know what I say is true and I save the day!" 

"N-no you didn't..."

We watched them argue back and forth, feeling extremely worried and shock. I gotta do something before things get too far!

"Guys, hold on!" I ran over and got between as the two glared at each other. "Let's calm down and-"

"Fine! I don't know why I ever became friends with someone like you!" Twilight yelled out.

"And I don't know why I ever became friends with someone who always tries to confront the problems head on without thinking through nor being too possessive with her own brother!" Jamie screamed out before immediately shutting his mouth up with a shocked look at what he said, even I jaw-dropped at that while the others stared at him in shock and gasped.

"Uh oh..." Jack muttered.

"Uh oh, indeed." Rantaro nodded.

But no one was more shocked than Twilight as she blinked and backed away, feeling a bit hurt by what Jamie said before she was confronted by her brother, and boy, he was not happy by what she done. Twilight sheepishly smiled at him as her brother began speaking up.

"You want to know why my eyes went all..." Shining swirled his eyes around with a dumbfounded look before glaring at Twilight. "Because ever since I started having to perform my protection spell, I've been getting terrible migraines. Cadance hasn't been casting spells on me. She's been using her magic heal me!"

Twilight inhaled and sighed as Shining continued "And she decided to replace her bridesmaids because she found out the only reason they wanted to be in the wedding was so that they could meet Canterlot royalty! And if she hasn't been on her best behavior with you friends...!"

He stomped his hoof on the ground, frightening some of us as he continued "It's because with me being so busy, she's had to make all the decisions about the wedding!"

Wait what? But hold on...I guess that explains why she was pushy with Fluttershy's bird singing off-key and insulting Pinkie's birthday party that she, Nikki, and Ran made. And...what about the insulting? There's...no way she did all of that. Something is off by everything Shining Armor said, especially one more thing that made her feel so strange.

"I was trying to-"

"She's been completely stressed out because it's really important to her that our big day be perfect! Something that obviously wasn't important to you!" Shining exclaimed angrily before clutching onto his head with a small gasp. Twilight tried to comfort him with a small smile, only to be swatted away, much to our shock. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go and comfort my bride. And you can forget about being my best mare. In fact, if I were you, I wouldn't show up to the wedding at all."

With that, he took off, leaving the rest of us speechless after hearing all that.

"W-wait!" Jamie called, gaining Shining's attention. "N-no please! It wasn't Twilight's fault! S-she didn't know and she was-"

"It IS Twilight's fault! And it always has been." Shining scoffed, which made me feel confused on that. "She's nothing than a nuisance and troubling sister!"

"What?!" Mason exclaimed in shock.

"S-Shining...you really don't mean that, do ya?" Kaede asked.

"Dude, that's messed up." Jack blinked in shock while Rantaro stared at Shining with a raised brow.

"I do know what I mean and anyone who's with her...don't bother coming to the wedding either." Shining scoffed before taking his leave while Twilight stood there with a shocked look before looking back at us before flinching upon seeing the angry look on Applejack's face.

"Come on, you all. Let's go check on the princess." What?! I turned around to Applejack and asked "Wait what? What about Twilight?"

"What about Twilight?" Rainbow rolled her eyes before she and the others began taking their leave. While they walked off and past Twilight, Rarity closed her eyes with an angry look on her face, Applejack glaring at Twilight, Pinkie Pie bouncing away and wasn't in the mood to talk or comfort Twilight, Rainbow Dash having an irritated look, and even Fluttershy...

"Fluttershy?" I asked with widened eyes. "You...too?"

Fluttershy looks back at me with a sad look and said "I'm sorry Ren....I'm so sorry Twilight..."

With that, she took her leave along with Spike, who felt like she shouldn't be here while the rest of us humans stood there in horror and shock. Guys...why?

We looked over to see Princess Celestia taking her leave as well with a somewhat angry and stern look on her face.

"I was-"

"You have a lot to think about." We all gasped in shock as she just told her student to be quiet while Twilight formed tears in her eyes with her mouth agape. We all pretty much stood there with stunned looks before hearing the doors slammed shut.

"Twilight..." Jamie turned to her with a sad look. "I-I-I...I'm sorry...I-I didn't-"

"No Jamie...you were right." Twilight whimpered. "Maybe...I was being overprotective.."

"N-No! No you weren't!" Jamie shook his head, forming tears in his eyes. "I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean to doubt you!"

"No...you had the right to because...because...!" Twilight began crying as she walked past us and collapsed on the stairs, letting out tears. "I could've had a sister...but instead...I just lost a brother."

"Twilight no!" Carrie shook her head, wanting to comfort her till Mason stopped her. Carrie looked at her brother in surprise before he shook his head, gesturing us that she doesn't want anyone to be comforted.

(Twilight):
He was my big brother, best friend
Forever...
And now, we'll never do anything
Together...

"Twilight!" Jamie called, letting out tears. "I-I'm so sorry for everything! I didn't mean it! I swear! We're all supposed to be friends!"

"Yeah, the others will forgive you if you explain yourself!" Kaede suggested. "We know that we do and we know that you didn't mean it!"

"Yeah, you just didn't know!" I added.

"Just go away you guys...leave me alone...." My heart felt broken upon hearing her telling us to leave. We all felt stunned by it as Jack growled at her.

"Are you frigging telling us to just leave ya pony tail behind?!" Jack exclaimed. "Who the hell cares what your brother-"

"JUST GO AWAY!" Twilight yelled out, glaring at us with a tear-stained look on her face. I felt stunned before we all closed our eyes and felt silent as I whispered "Okay..."

We all did what she said as we slowly began walking out of the room while Kodiak whimpered a lot.

"Twilight..." Kodi sniffed, causing me to pat him on the head, hoping to cheer him a little. Twilight...I'm sorry...

Jamie's POV

No.....please don't abandoned me.....Twilight....don't do this....

While the others did what Twilight told them to do, I stood there with a stunned look, tears began falling down from my cheeks. 

"What are you still doing here Jamie? Just go away. You wouldn't want to hang out with a pony like me." Twilight's voice broke as she continued to cry out. However...I didn't listen to her.

"Twilight...please...it's not your fault." I shook my head violently as I looked at her with tears falling down. "It's mine! I should have done something! I should have said something to defend you! I....I was supposed to be your friend and..."

"What's the point? I've lost my brother, and all of my friends...even Princess Celestia..." Twilight whimpered, not bothering to look at me. "Just go away Jamie...go away...and never come back..."

"Twilight...I...Please..." I whimpered as I began sobbing too. "Please! Forgive me! I'll work harder! I'll do anything! Just please! Don't abandoned me! I...I made a friend who's just like me and I...I don't want to abandoned you!...Please!"

Twilight looked back at me, tears flowing down her cheeks as she yelled out "Just go away Jamie! Go away and never see me ever again!"

I stood there in silence....before I began crying again and began running away and yelled out "I'm sorry!"

With that, I ran out of the wedding doors before sliding down on my back next against the door with tears raining down on my face.

Why?....Why couldn't I do something instead of insulting Twilight like that earlier? I was supposed to be a friend....a friend of her....we all were friends. Weren't we...supposed to stick together and never leave each other's sides?....Was it all...just a lie...?

BAM!

W-what the? I got up and looked behind the door as I slowly opened it, seeing Twilight and...

"P-P-Princess Mi Amore Cadenza?" I stuttered as my face turned completely pale. What...is she doing here? How did she get into the altar?

"Cadance!" Twilight looked up to Cadance as she smiled apologetically at her. "I'm so sorry!"

The princess looked at her with a soft smile before it became an ear-splitting sinister grin on her face.

"Oh you will be." Ah?! What the?! I looked over to see green flames circling around Twilight as she looks around in horror as the green flames twisted and twisted on the spot she was and before you know it.....she was gone. No trace of her, Twilight Sparkle...is gone! 

"Twilight...?" I asked...my face completely blank.

No....no she couldn't...no....No...No no no no no no! NOOO! TWILIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT!

To Be Continued
> Chapter 55 - A Canterlot Wedding Disaster Part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Previously on My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria

"Princess Celesia Princess Celestia cordially invites you to the wedding of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and...Ah! My brother?!"

"Twily! It's good to see ya again!"

"Shining Armor? Pfft! What a lame name. Who names their children like that?"

"A-About your brother...you say that he's captain of the Royal Guard, right?"

"In a way, yes. So tell me, got any friends waiting for ya back home?"

"No, I'm not that good with having close relationships with people in my life."

"WAAAAAHHHH! I FEEL SO TERRIBLE FOR YOU NIKKI!"

"I am not being possessive, and I am not taking it out on Cadance! You're all just too caught up in your wedding planning to notice that maybe there shouldn't even be a wedding!"

"It's just that...I feel so useless...everyone is doing so well...and Twilight is so upset do to what Cadance...I-I mean Princess Mi Amore Cadenza done what with all her demanding and rudeness, along with insulting the rest of us. I...feel so unreliable..."

"We have proof! Plus, you saw it too, right? Then we can use your eyewitness testimony to show that Cadance is evil!"

"P-please Twilight! T-think this through....please Twilight...I-I don't want to accuse someone unless we find out more and we can't just jump on conclusions."

"Fine! I don't know why I ever became friends with someone like you!"

"And I don't know why I ever became friends with someone who always tries to confront the problems head on without thinking through nor being too possessive with her own brother!"

"Cadance hasn't been casting spells on me. She's been using her magic to heal me! If I were you, I wouldn't show up to the wedding at all."

"Come on, you all. Let's go check on the princess."

"Wait what? What about Twilight?"

"What about Twilight?"

"I could've had a sister...but instead...I just lost a brother."

"Twilight...I...please...Please! Forgive me! I'll work harder! I'll do anything! Just please! Don't abandoned me! I...I made a friend who's just like me and I...I don't want to abandoned you!...Please!"

"Cadance! I'm so sorry!"

"Oh you will be."

"Twilight...? TWILIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT!"


My Little Pony Ren's Adventures In Equestria

“W-w-w-w-w–w–w-w-w-w-what?!” Why am I standing around here for?! Why am I just stammering myself in fear?! I know what I saw! I saw…Princess Mi Amore Cadenza…burn Twilight to the ground! 

“A…Ah….AHHHH!” I screamed as I began running away in fear. I need to warn the others about this! They need to know the truth! Twilight was right all along! Princess Mi Amore Cadenza…no….Cadance is evil! That can’t be her! She’s pure evil!

Meanwhile

Darkness was the first thing Twilight saw. She felt like she was hit by a train before slowly beginning to open her eyes, finding herself in some weird cavern. It was filled with different colored crystals, either small and large, and she looked around in fear.

“Where am I?” She wondered to herself. She looks around the place before noticing a nearby body next to her, and to her shock, it was quite familiar to her. “N-Nicole?!”

That’s right, it was Nicole. She was laying on the ground, seemingly knocked-out as Twilight ran over to her and began shaking her. 

“Nicole! Wake up! Wake up!” Twilight pleaded. Nicole’s eyes slowly began to open, as she looked over and saw the area she was in, even Twilight herself.

“…Oh hey Twilight.” Nicole greeted. “Where are we? Is this some sort of mine?”

“I’m not sure.” Twilight shook her head before placing a hoof on it. “Last thing I remember was…Ah! Cadance! I knew it all along! That wasn’t Cadance!”

“Wasn’t…Cadance?” Nicole questioned before slightly widening her eyes in surprise, which Twilight noticed.

“Are you okay Nicole?” Twilight asked in worried.

“So it would seem that you noticed it too, right?” Nicole asked, which Twilight nodded. “I should’ve known that I shouldn’t have dropped my guard down.”

“What? Why’s that? What are you talking about?” Twilight questioned. “Actually…I should be asking the more important question: What in Equestria are you doing down here?!”

Nicole looked at her for a moment and sensed something.

“….I’ll answer that later. Right now, let me ask you something…what happened?” Nicole asked, catching Twilight off-guard a bit.

“What do you mean?” Twilight raised a brow before slowly realizing what she meant since Nicole was a keen observer in the field of psychology. 

“Twilight…why are you acting so depressed? You’re hiding it inside of your heart from all that concern and worried feelings you’re having.” Nicole said, narrowing her eyes a bit. “Something happened before you were sent down here by her, right?”

“Y-yeah…” Twilight looked away sadly. “It’s…a long story.”

“….” Nicole stared at her for a while before softly smiling. “Don’t be sad…you don’t have to tell me. You can tell me when you’re ready about the issue about your brother.”

“Thank you Ni-” Twilight froze upon her finding out about it. “H-How did you…know that?”

“I’ve seen your eyes. It’s feel with betrayed and great sorrow, and you were acting all too worried for your brother being around that ‘Cadance’, then he didn’t believe and must’ve left you by the side, right?” Twilight simply stared at Nicole in astonishment before sighing and slumping her head down. 

“Yes…but Shining’s betrayal wasn’t the only thing.” Nicole cocked her head in confusion, wondering what she meant. But before she could find out…a dark laughter rang through the mines. They looked around till they saw a big crystal shined over them, revealing to be ‘Cadance’.

“You…” Nicole furrow her brows at ‘Cadance’. “What do you think you’re doing here?”

“My my, never would I thought nor suspected that you might be interfering with my plans for some human that I barely know of.” ‘Cadance’ chuckled devilishly, much to their irritation.

“So what? Do you really think one of you freakish species that appeared from some space-ship can really try to stop me?” ‘Cadance’ snickered before scoffing “If so, then you’re really too simple-minded and-”

“Too dumb, too stupid, and we’re too insane in order for someponies like us to stop your plans.” Nicole guessed, much to the imposter’s surprise. “Am I right?”

“Tch! Smart individual, you are…” ‘Cadance’ scoffed. “I don’t know how but I guess I underestimated you humans a lot.”

“Wait, hold up!” Twilight spoke up, glaring at the hologram ‘Cadance’. “Plans? What plans? And where in Equestria are we?”

“To answer your first question, I have big plans with your brother, of course.” ‘Cadance’ smirked darkly, making Twilight growl angrily at her.

“Don’t you dare do anything to my brother, you…you monster!” Twilight threatened.

“Oh please.” ‘Cadance’ rolled her eyes before her image slowly began enlarging itself in front of us as I backed away a bit with a neutral look on my face while Twilight backed away and looked in horror as the ‘Cadance’ hologram continued “Now, to answer your second question, don’t bother trying to scream because no one can hear you. And no one will ever think to look for the both of you, either. Most ponies have forgotten that these caves even exist, which is why they are the ideal place to keep the ones who try to interfere with my plans.”

“So I’m starting to understand.” Nicole adjusted her glasses before looking over at the hologram ‘Cadance’. “You created that threat letter and send it out to Princess Celestia for her to see it, and you knew that she would tried to barricade Canterlot from the threat. However, it may have kept the enemies from outside, but not from the inside. You already disguised yourself as Princess Mi Amore Cadenza in order to hide your identity. I must say, you may have fooled the others with your disguise, but I think me, Twilight, Rantaro, and Jamie saw through your ruse. You may good with your disguises but you should have kept up with her personality.”

“Hmph! Who cares, what he said was right.” ‘Cadance’ darkly chuckled. “Ponies are too naive and too stupid to even see through my lies.”

“Wait…who are you talking about?” Twilight questioned with narrowed eyes.

“Sorry, but I’m afraid that I’m running late for my wedding to even go onto that subject. I’ll see you all later. Ta-ta!” ‘Cadance’ laughed evilly. 

“And what makes you think we cannot escape?” I asked, tilting my head a bit. “How else did you get me and Twilight in here in the first place?”

“Duh, with-”

“Your magic, yes.” Nicole interrupted, much to the ‘Cadance’s’ annoyance. “But that doesn’t mean that you just didn’t know about these mines.”

‘Cadance’ glared at the psychologist with narrowed eyes before letting out an evil chuckle.

“Oh! Do insist then miss psychologist that you and that bratty unicorn of a student can even find a way out of here!” ‘Cadance’ laughed, upsetting Twilight a lot.

“We’ll see about that!” Twilight growled before firing a magic beam towards the crystal, destroying it. 

“Twilight, calm down. She’s only taunting you.” Nicole stated. “It’s best not to divulge into what she got for us.”

“I can’t Nicole! She trapped us down in these mines and has my brother held captive in her own little hooves!” Twilight yelled out before noticing another crystal showing another ‘Cadance’.

“Over here!” The ‘Cadance’ hologram taunted them as Twilight began chasing after her. 

“Wait! Hold on!” Nicole cried out as she began chasing after Twilight as she began destroying any crystal that showed a hologram ‘Cadance’ over and over again as the imposter kept making too many taunts.

“Oops! Better luck next time!”

“Nope, over here!”

“Is that the best you got?”

“Just…shut…up!” Twilight hissed, firing every magic beam as fast as she could. As soon as Nicole caught up to her, she widened her eyes upon seeing how much aggression Twilight was carrying.

“Oh boy…it would seem that she’s carrying too much aggression. Probably of that sisterly-brotherly bond of hers.” Nicole deduced, checking over her iPad before noticing that it was out of batteries. She blinked for a while before sighing “And it looks like we’re out of batteries…I should’ve brought a wireless charger.”

“Help…me…” Nicole looked up upon hearing a faint voice calling out as she walked over through the darkness before noticing a pony on the ground, looking all injured. She looked over and saw Nicole as she slowly raised her hoof at her and said “Hey…is someone down here?”

“Are you okay ma’am?” Nicole asked, walking over to help her out. As soon as she helped her off the ground, Nicole let out a small gasp upon seeing who it was. It was Cadance, but this one was different than the other she saw. She looked very exhausted, worn out, all dirty, looked like she hasn’t eaten for weeks, and she’s badly wounded with some cuts.

“Y-yes…I think so.” She nodded with a smile. “Thank goodness that I’ve been saved by you. Let alone, by a human no less.”

“It’s fine.” Nicole assured with a soft smile before realizing something. “Ah…so you do know what humans are and you can trust them?”

“Well yes, after meeting Mason many months ago, I know I can trust them and I’m quite amazed by them.” Nicole blinked in slight surprise before slowly realizing what she said. She mentioned Mason and she heard him mentions that ‘Cadance’ didn’t even mentioned him and just called him names along with the others. Which means…

“There you are!” Nicole and Cadance looked back to see Twilight with a snarl. “Nicole! Stay back! It could be that evil Cadance!”

“No! Wait! Ugh!” Cadance winced in pain, struggling to stay up. “Please! Don’t hurt me! Twilight, it's me! Please, you have to believe me. I've been imprisoned like you. The Cadance who brought you down here was an imposter.”

“So I was right…” Nicole muttered. “What he told me was right all along…”

“Likely story!” Twilight scoffed, not believing what the real Cadance said.

“Hold on.” Nicole stopped her from before she could fire her magic beam. “She’s telling the truth. She looks all wounded and dirty unlike the Cadance we knew.”

“She could be tricking us with another of her illusions, Nicole!” Twilight shook her head. “How can we be sure that it’s the real Cadance?”

“Cadance…” Nicole glanced to her and asked “Do you know anything that can convince her?”

“Hmm…I think one that only me and Twilight ever done.” Cadance suggested before slowly getting up and wincing in pain. She softly smiled at Twilight and began doing…a strange-looking dance.

“Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake. Clap your hooves…”

Twilight slowly widened her eyes before it began to form a bright smile as the two finished their dance by shaking their tails and said “And do a little shake!”

“You remember me!” Twilight immediately ran over and hugged Cadance, and I mean the real Cadance. Cadance hugged Twilight back with a soft and exhausted smile as she replied “Of course I do. How could I forget the filly I love to sit for the most?”

Twilight let out a chuckle while Nicole stood there with a soft smile. 

“It would seem that their relationship really is close. Though I still can’t that imposter managed to fool everyone, but it would make sense to make a likely story that she would be stressed out with nerves to make the wedding perfect. But her tone of voice when I heard her when I was with Miss Pinkie Pie and Mr. Rantaro was filled with greed and disgust. It would seem that he was right…” Nicole thought, tapping her chin in thought.

“We need to get out of here…and fast!” Nicole’s thoughts were stopped as she turned to see Twilight and Cadance making serious looks. “Nicole, did-”

“You hear me? We need to find a place out of these mines before that imposter marries my brother? Am I right?” Nicole guessed, slightly surprising Twilight but Cadance widened her eyes on that guess.

“Whoa, how did you know she was gonna say that?” Cadance asked.

“I’m a keen observer and I can know what they might say by mouth movements.” Nicole replied, glancing away and looked around the place. “Now then, shall we get going? We should be careful when walking around this place. There’s something ‘off’ about it.”

“R-Right!” Twilight nodded before the three girls began running around in the mines, hoping to find the exit in time before it’s too late, unaware that three green eyes were watching them from the shadows.



Later
Jamie’s POV

I gotta hurry! Good thing all that exercise training Ren, Mason, and Jack gave me helped improve my running that I’m not slightly exhausted. But no time to talk about it! I gotta go and tell the others about this! I immediately headed through the great hall at Canterlot Castle, where I found the others talking with each other. 

“G-Guys!” I shouted, gaining all of their attention. Apparently, both Shining and Princess Celestia were here as well as they all stared at me with worried and concern looks.

“Jamie? What’s wrong?” Kaede asked in worried.

“Y-you…you gotta help Twilight! P-Please!” I begged, much to the other’s confusion.

“What? What is it?” Applejack asked.

“D-did something happened to Twilight?” Fluttershy questioned in worried.

“I-it’s Cadance! Twilight was right! That wasn’t Cadance!” I exclaimed with a panic look, but instead of seeing shocked looks, all I saw…was doubt. Even Shining had an angry look.

“Jamie…what are you talking about?” Rainbow Dash asked. 

“W-what? I’m saying that Twilight’s in danger! We need to find her!” I exclaimed. 

“And why bother?” Huh? We looked over to see Shining Armor scoffing. “Don’t bother with him, you guys. He’s probably just joking around and making things up just like Twilight.” He walked over to me with a glare, causing me to flinch. “Ha…now I can see why both you and Twilight are friends, you two like to make things up.”

“Now hold on!” Ren said, stepping up. “Why you would say that about your sister?”

“Stay out of this, Ren! I’m busy with my wedding than with my sister!” Ren and the other humans gasped in shock while Princess Celestia and the girls looked at each other.

“N-no! I-I’m not making it up!” I shook my head with a worried look. “Come on you guys! You have to believe me! Twilight is our friend!”

“She was our friend till she screwed it up.” Rainbow blurted out, much to my shock. 

“W-w-what?” I asked, standing in front of them in horror.

“Jamie…” Applejack looked at me with a serious look and said “Stop lying. I understand what you’re doing but lying is gonna help us forgive Twilight for what she did to Cadance.”

“You guys…think I’m lying?” I questioned.

“Wait…” Mason spoke up. “Why would you girls say that?”

“Yeah! Isn’t Twilight our friend?” Kodi asked. “I mean, sure she screwed up but we all make mistakes.”

“Yeah, sure…mistakes.” Rainbow scoffed, shocking me greatly. “It’s just another Twilight thing that she’s going through and she took it too far…just like always.”

I don’t believe what I’m hearing…they really mean it.

“But what about Nicole?” Carrie asked curiously. “We haven’t seen her anywhere.”

“She’s right. She wasn’t even during the wedding rehearsal.” Kaede agreed. “We need to go and look for her!”

“Don’t worry, she’s fine.” Rarity waved it off. “You know her, she’s probably in her room minding her own business.”

“And how can you be so sure?” Rantaro questioned with a raised brow. “You aren’t going to check up on her? I thought you girls care for each other.”

“And ignoring the broker guy…” Rainbow scoffed before turning to me. “Jamie, just stop joking around and don’t bother convincing us to make us forgive Twilight. Just drop it and let her go cry out and she’ll be back.”

“Skittles, that was too far!” Jack yelled out in shock. “I mean, did you see how tearful she was?!”

“It’s a Twilight thing-”

“NO IT’S NOT!” I yelled out, shocking the others as I glared at them angrily. “You all don’t know Twilight at all! You guys call yourselves friends and yet you don’t know each other!”

“J-Jamie…please calm down!” Fluttershy pleaded, feeling a bit scared at my outburst.

“Yeah Jamie!” Pinkie nodded. “How about we calm down and-”

“No! I won’t calm down!” I shouted. “She’s our friend! Twilight may panic but we all our different and we all make mistakes! We’re not perfect and-”

“Shut up already!” Shining hissed angrily, causing me to flinch and froze in shock. “I don’t care about anything you say! Just drop it and let Twilight cry. It’s her fault that she tried to ruin my wedding.”

“Shining Armor!” Mason glared at the captain as he yelled “How could you say that? What if Jamie is right? What if something happened to your sister-”

“I have no sister!” 

……..What? We all stood there in silence as we looked over at Shining Armor, who was panting heavily from his outburst.

“W-what?” Mason asked.

“S-Shining? How…could…you?” Carrie asked, slowly forming tears in her eyes. Shining huffed before leaving me in a shocked state.

“No….you’re joking, right?” Kodi asked in horror.

“While I do not like Shining’s tone of voice or what he said, he somewhat has a point.” I turned to Rarity, who simply just shrugged and said “Twilight is simply going through a phase, so she’ll be alright.”

“No she’s not!” Ren shook his head. “We saw her regretting everything she did, and she was mourning in tears! How could you guys say that?!”

“She’s obviously faking it.” Rainbow shrugged.

“Well…she was acting a little mean.” Fluttershy couldn’t help but agree.

“Yeah…” Pinkie nodded.

“And besides, we have no time.” Applejack stated. “We have a wedding to prepare.”

“She is right.” What? Even the princess? Princess Celestia held a bold look on her face and said “What Twilight did to my niece is unforgivable, I know. But you must understand that the wedding always comes first and-”

“Stop it.” I spoke up, causing everyone to stare at me as I looked at them angrily. “How? Why? Why you all say that? How could you all do this?”

“Because we’re super busy with the-”

“Shut up! Just shut the hell up for once in your damn life!” I exclaimed, shocking Rainbow Dash. “I thought you of all ponies would know! You told me that you would never ever abandon your friends and never your side! What ever happened to that?!”

“W-w-w-well….”

“So it was a lie…Were…you guys lying to me all along? Even to Twilight?” I asked, letting out some tears and whimpered. “You guys….lied to me? Were you all using me?”

“Using you? Darling, what ever do you mean?” Rarity questioned.

“Stop it! Just stop it! Stop with all that lying!” I exclaimed in anger. “You all tricked me! I-I can’t believe it!”

“Jamie, we didn’t-”

“Everything you told me! Telling me that you trust each other, you never leave each other, and that friends should stick together as a team! What ever happened to that?!” I demanded. 

“Jamie, calm down.” Ren said. “We all know that you’re upset, but-”

“No Ren! Just stop it! You all are liars! You!” I pointed over to Princess Celestia. “How could you just abandoned your own student like that?! All because of a bunch of accusations she made! You should have comforted her! Twilight looked up to you and wanted to be a great mage like you! But you broke that trust!”

Princess Celestia glanced away, unable to retort what I said. I then turned to the girls and exclaimed “And what about you all?! Why didn’t you at least tried to say anything to Twilight about the accusations and tried to at least side with her?! I thought friends would never betray each other but you did! You made Twilight have emotional pain!”

“Well it wasn’t our fault that she had to make those accusations! She shouldn’t have and maybe we haven’t have left in the dust!” Rainbow Dash yelled.

I darkened my face, gritting my teeth as tears began flowing down my cheeks. How? How could they?! Did they pretend to be my friends just to give me more emotional pain?

“I knew it…you all really used Twilight.” I hissed with a dark and angry look, shocking everyone at my expression. “You don’t get her, do you? She told me that she never made friends because she focused on her studies, and she’s still learning about the magic of friendship. She was bullied a lot from other ponies when she was still going to Princess Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns because of her smarts and the others were envy for being the princess’s protege! I knew everything about her and even if I did know, I would have still have concern and check up on her! You all claimed that it was just another ‘Twilight thing’, but even so, you all would’ve helped her but instead you all abandoned her just because of some false accusations! If anyone is terrible, it’s all of you! You all are monsters!”

“Now Jamie-”

“Shut the hell up!” I exclaimed, shocking Rarity as I continued “You all know nothing about friends or anything! You all don’t care about others but yourselves! Are you happy now? Because you just lost someone I thought of as a friend! Thanks to you…you hurt me again…”

“Again?” Kaede asked in worried.

“All my life, I was always harassed by other people for being rich and for my smarts.” I whimpered. “Many people pretend to be nice to me and sooner or later, they either let my guard down and I get pounced by a pack of bullies, getting all wounds and cuts from them, or just used me to do stuff and get plenty of money from me! And worst of it all, to just pretend to be friends to create emotional trauma in me!” 

“Jamie…” Applejack walked over and tried to comfort me, but I swatted it away with an angry look. 

“Don’t touch me you liar! I hope you’re all happy that you all lost a loser, weak, unreliable novelist like me! I hope you’re happy that you made me realize that I am a coward! I am weak! I am unreliable and deserves to die!” 

With that, I ran out of the room with tears on my eyes as I didn’t want to stay in a room where my heart would be crush even more. 

Everyone was right….I am weak…I am a coward….I am unreliable to others……I….don’t deserve to live….



Ren’s POV

Jamie, no! I can’t believe everything I’m hearing from the gang! Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Princess Celeste, and even Shining just dissed him off. But why? I thought we all were friends and seeing Jamie running off in tears and agony…I can’t just stand around and do nothing! If so, then I have this dark feeling that something is up!

“So what now?” Fluttershy asked in concern. “Should we go and help Jamie?”

“He’ll be fine. We’ll check him on him and Twilight later after the wedding.” Rainbow assured, causing me to turn to her in shock.

“Rainbow! He’s our friend and we’re supposed to help him!” I exclaimed. “Don’t tell me that you guys aren’t serious?!”

“Yeah, what if something happens to him?!” Kodi barked in concern. “We need to hurry.”

“Exactly!” I nodded in agreement before turning to the others with a serious look. “Are you guys are just not gonna help Jamie out?! He thinks that we all betrayed him and he’s in so much pain like Twilight was! We’re their friends and friends should never leave each other! That’s why I’m gonna help Jamie out!”

“Yeah, me too!” Kodi nodded. “I’m with ya to the end, Ren!”

I smiled happily before scratching him behind the ears and said “Ha ha, thanks bud!”

“I’m coming too.” Huh? Mason stepped forward with a serious look. “There is no way that I would abandoned my friends.”

“Mason darling!” Rarity gasped as Mason glanced at her.

“I am sorry Rarity, but I must. We have to make sure Nicole, Jamie, and Twilight are alright. We made promises to each other earlier that we stick together as a team, and Ren is right. We never leave each other behind. That’s what real friends would have done.” I stared at Mason with a surprised look before smiling over him.

“Same here! I ain’t gonna let that nerd do anything to whatever he’s planning! Along with that purple chick and the psychic chick!” Jack joined in, cracking his knuckles.

“Me too!” Kaede nodded in agreement. “Jamie, Twilight, and Nicole are our friends and we’ve always been! We’re supposed to stick together no matter what! Who cares about some wedding when your friends are in danger!”

“Meh, you all are just a waste of my time and energy.” Rantaro scoffed. “But…whatever. I guess I would join ya.”

“Me too! I wanna check up on my friends and want to protect and comfort them!” Carrie agreed while I stood there with a smile and chuckled.

“Thanks you guys! I’m really glad I count on you!” I grinned.

“Are you really gonna check up on them?” Fluttershy asked.

“We have to Flutters. We can’t just abandoned them.” I shook my head with a soft smile. “I’m not upset with you guys, it’s understandable. But it wouldn’t hurt to check up on them.”

“You all are just wasting time. If you guys wanna side with them, then don’t bother coming to the wedding either.” Shining scoffed, annoying some of us.

“To think that you care more of this wedding than your own sister. You disgust me.” Mason growled. “Very well, I may have to decline the offer of ever being your Best Stallion because unlike you, I care about my sister and would never put her into harm’s way.”

“Yeah!” Carrie nodded.

“And besides…” Rantaro spoke up, looking over at the girls. “You girls should be ashamed of yourselves as well. You just made poor Jamie cry, and you claim that you’re friends.”

“Well what if he’s wrong?!” Rainbow exclaimed, only to receive an annoyed look on his face.

“Well it would seem that you guys being friends was nothing but a little lie.” Rantaro stated before turning to the princess. “And I guess you care more for yourself than your own student. Truly disappointing to you Celeste. Oh well, doesn’t matter. Not that I care. You all should’ve known that Jamie wouldn’t joke around, not even from the atmosphere you girls created after abandoning Twilight. I guess Jamie was right…you girls really don’t know anything about friendship and were just using him.”

Rantaro let out an amused smirk and said “Heh…that’s cold. Even for you girls. Oh well…”

Rantaro…I don’t want to blame each of them, but still…what they said to Jamie and abandoning Twilight like that, saying that the wedding is more important than checking up on their friends was wrong and we have to make sure that once we find them, we can make everyone forgive each other and go back to normal. I don’t know why Shining would even say those things, saying that he doesn’t have a sister anymore, but he seems too off….I just can’t help but feel like that something’s weird happening.

“Well…either way, we’ll be back. I promise.” I assured with a soft grin. “And once we get back, I want each of you to forgive each other, please?”

“…Fine, do whatever you want. I won’t stop you.” Rainbow Dash sighed.

“Hmph…whatever.” Jack scoffed. “Let’s just find the nerd before he does something he’ll regret.”

“I agree.” Kaede nodded before the rest of us began taking our leave, the girls behind as we ran out of the room and searched through the corridors in search of Jamie and the others. Where could they gone? Jamie stated that Twilight disappeared in a ring of flames back at the wedding hall, but we can’t go back there because the wedding is just being prepared, so no use there. 

“If we were Jamie, where could we be?” I wondered aloud.

“Maybe at the Canterlot library?” Kodi suggested. “He does seem to calm down after reading some books.”

“Nah, probably not.” Jack shrugged. “Not after witnessing that.”

“Yeah, I don’t think reading a couple of books is gonna get through what we saw.” Kaede agreed. “He looked like he was really in great emotional pain.”

“True…and what he said before he took off in tears was that he was a victim of bullying and harassment.” Rantaro added, rubbing his chin in thought. “It seemed like that he was the prime example of bullying.”

“Yeah…” I nodded in agreement with a sigh. I remembered something that Jamie said back when we first met that he was suspicious of us treating him so kindly and that he never felt comfortable being around others till he started living with us. 

“Indeed….hey listen…” Mason spoken up, crossing his arms with a serious and solemn look. “Back when we last visited Canterlot for Twilight’s birthday party, after Jamie was insulted by those wealthy idiots of ponies, he left his notebook behind and I took a peek of it.”

“Huh? You did?” Kodi asked in surprise.

“Really? Did it say anything?” Carrie wondered.

“It was probably just a bunch of boring stuff from things he learned, right?” Jack guessed.

“That…wasn’t all I found from it.” Huh? What does Mason mean? “The book he carried was also used as a diary for us depicting what he felt everyday with us. Apparently, I came across one entry that stated about his life…and how he was neglected by his father, everyone picking on him and kept harassing him even though he never done anything wrong.”

“Poor Jamie…” Kaede muttered. “I feel awful for him. So that’s why he felt so tense up when meeting us for the first time. He…never had anyone to trust in his entire life.”

“Jamie…we’re so sorry that we didn’t understand you.” Carrie cried out,

“Jamie!” Kodi howled sadly.

“Dammit…!” Jack hissed. “Now I see why the nerd wants to get stronger…”

“Yeah…” I nodded. I can see where Jamie is coming from, I was bullied a lot during my days at elementary school, but I kept going forward because I kept thinking that everything’s was gonna be alright to the very end and it turns out that it came true. I made several friends in middle school and never looked back in the past. Jamie…is surely trapped in his own past, afraid and scared from the trauma he suffered over the years. And I have to help him come out of his past.

“Say Mason…” Rantaro turned to him with a curious look. “About that journal of his, did it say anything else?”

“Yes, as a matter of fact.” Mason nodded. “According to the book, it stated about him never should have existed and should have taken his life.”

“Hold on!” Kaede stopped him. “It sounds like as if…!”

“Yes, he was planning to commit suicide.” Mason nodded. “I’ve been keeping my eye on him during training in case he tries anything like that. Fortunately, what with we’ve been through for a while, he began feeling happy and a little bit stronger, but that was until today from what we experienced that is.”

“I know, I can’t Shining Armor would say all those mean things.” Carrie frowned, tearing up a bit. “Why big brother? Why would he say that stuff about Twilight?”

“I’m not sure. If it was about her accusing Cadance for being evil, then I would understand. But the way how he was taking it, that was pretty questionable.” Mason shrugged.

“Tch! Forget about that bastard!” Jake scoffed. “Telling us that Jamie was kidding around. Kid around my butt.”

“….” I looked over to see Rantaro not saying anything but held a serious look. Strange, he normally shows off his cocky grin and makes a sarcastic remark that annoys some of us…well most of us, actually. So what’s up? 

“Rantaro…what’s up?” I asked curiously.

“I have a bad feeling about this.” Rantaro stated.

“Huh? Why do you say that?” Kaede questioned.

“I mean that Jamie might be in danger.” Rantaro held a serious look as he continued “And if I have a feeling that we need to hurry.”

“Yeah yeah, what’s the deal?” Jack scoffed. “How much do ya want to tell us about where he might be?”

“This is no time for jokes. Hurry now or it’s too late.” Huh? That’s awfully strange…Rantaro would normally make us pay up any ludicrous price he would like to make, but right now, he’s serious. “Well?! What are you all waiting for?! Find Jamie before he does something stupid!”

“Umm…okay.” Kaede nodded.

“Wait, what if we have Kodiak sniffed his scent?” Carrie suggested.

“Good idea! I’ll try and find his scent!” Kodiak nodded before he began using his nose to find Jamie’s scent. He kept searching around the place for a moment before raising his head up with a small gasp and shouted “I caught his scent! Follow me everypony!”

“Right!” We all nodded before following after Kodiak. I don’t know what got into Rantaro, but if he’s acting like this…then I fear what Jamie is at isn’t a good idea at all.



Jamie’s POV

…..I’m done…All my life…I was berated by people…always getting picked on. Whenever I go to school, I don’t get five minutes of alone time during class time that I always find my desk written with insulting names, and garbage and junk stuffed into my desk. Worse of all, my dad just pays more attention to his job and to his money instead of watching over his own children. It just sickens me…I done nothing wrong to anyone…I gave up trusting others because I was fooled many times by others as they use me for my family’s fortune, create emotional pain in my heart by betraying my trust…I just can’t take it anymore…When I finally decide to trust on Ren, Kaede, Jack, Mason, Rantaro, Nicole, and the Mane 6 along with Spike, I thought…I could trust them. But after going through what just happened, none of them feeling concern for Twilight, her own brother abandoning her, even the princess. She was just innocent, a unicorn mare who was so curious to learn more about how friendship works and how is it magical…

I wanted to keep learning so much….but no matter where I go….I always receive the full on stab of hatred, sorrow, and betrayal at the very end. Why can’t I have a happy life? Why…was I even born if my life was gonna end up like this? 

….Oh well…it doesn’t matter. Because now…it’s time to finish something that I should have done a long time ago. I was standing at the balcony. Hold on, let me clarify: On the edge of the balcony. It was time…time to let go out of this pain….I have no reason to live….

With that, I stepped forward and then…I began to fall.

Yes…it was time. I don’t care about my life…it was time to end it.

“Jamie! No!” Huh? I then felt as if someone grabbing on my arm, much to my shock as I immediately looked up to see…

“Ren…?” I asked in shock. It was true…it was him. Apparently, he was holding me, but how is he doing that? Wait…I looked over to see Jack holding onto his hoodie’s sweater, struggling to hold onto us. He then lifted us up and threw us onto the balcony grounds. 

“W-w-what?” I asked in fear as the others ran towards me in great worried.

“Jamie! Are you alright?!” Kaede asked in worried before forming an angry look. “What were you thinking?!”

“I-I was-”

“Jamie, are you crazy?!” Mason exclaimed, picking me up with a stern look. “What is your problem?! To just jump off a balcony like that?! Are you insane?!”

“W-why are you-”

“You idiot!” I was then immediately grabbed by the tie as I was confronted a furious Jack, growling angrily at me. “Are you such an idiot that you tried to take your own damn life out of this?! For a nerd, you really are stupid!”

“I-I-I….I’m sorry…” I muttered, whimpering a bit.

“And quit that whining!” Jack demanded. “What was all that training we’ve done meant to ya?! We trained ya to help you get strong and here you are, trying to kill yourself for what?! Just some bullcrap at what they said?! Just forget it! Be a frigging man for once!”

“Jack, that’s enough!” Ren stepped forward, getting in between our conversation with a serious look. “Look, I understand that you’re upset. I mean, we all are but we should be glad that Jamie is still alive and alright, right?”

Jack stared at him with an annoyed look before letting me go, dropping onto my back while he scoffed “Fine…just saying.”

“Good.” Ren sighed before turning to me as I flinched in fear. He soon walked over to me before I closed my eyes. He hates me…he probably hates me for making such a stupid decision…why? Why did I even try to do that? I…I…

“Hey…you need help?” Huh? I looked up to see Ren extending his arm out towards…me. He had a soft smile on his face while the others stared at him in surprise, but no one was more surprise but me. He’s…willing to help someone like me? Even after what I tried to pull? “Come on dude, don’t be like that. I’m just trying to help ya out.”

“….O-Okay.” I nodded before grabbing his arm and getting back up on my own two feet. I glanced away from their looks, mostly from Jack as I rubbed my arm bashfully. “I-I’m sorry…”

“Hey, it’s okay man.” Ren assured. “We’re just glad that we were able to find you thanks to Kodiak’s tracking sense.”

“Hey, it’s what I do best.” Kodi chuckled. 

“But still, that was pretty stupid Jamie.” Carrie pointed out. “Why would you do that?”

“Yeah, why DID you try to kill yourself?” Rantaro questioned, leaning against the wall as he looked at me with a curious raised brow. I flinched away from their peering eyes and looked down in my feet with a sad look. 

“I…I….” What could I say? Why should I bother? They’re all traitors…all of them….

“Jamie…” I glanced upwards to Ren, who gave me a supporting smile as he said “It’s okay. We all will understand your reasons. Plus, we all know that you’re extremely upset because none of the girls, the princess, or Shining believed in you. So you don’t worry dude, we promise that we’ll listen to every word you say.”

I looked at Ren in shock and surprise. How could someone like him forgive me so easily after the stunt I pulled? He saved my life…so easily…with help from his friends.

“…O-Okay…” I nodded, realizing that there’s no choice but to say something. “I…thought I should have taken my own life now…I…I-I thought that no one would bother to listen to me anymore. I thought you guys were using me, and later betray me.”

“It was because after hearing what the girls say, you felt betrayed, right?” Kaede asked in worried. 

“Yes.” I nodded. “I thought everyone would believe me. I thought we should work together to check up on our friends, but instead they treat it like it’s a normal thing and don’t bother to check up on her, not even believing a word at me because of what Twilight did at the wedding! I feel so stupid I could trust them!”

I whimpered before letting out a few tears as I gritted my teeth and exclaimed “I tried to be brave for you all, I wanted to be strong like all of you…I wanted to be reliable for you guys to see…but it looks like after what happened earlier ago…I felt like everything we’ve done together as a team…was all meaningless…I felt like you all were actually making fun of me behind my back…I…I…”

“Shaddup!” Huh? I was then confronted by Jack as he grabbed me by the shirt collar as I whimpered in fear. “Are you frigging stupid?! So what if they didn’t believe you! They’re just idiots! Just because of one bad thing doesn’t give the rights to just commit suicide! Listen, what was everything we’ve done, what we’ve said, what we’ve learned, everything?! Listen, if you want to be a man, then frigging be one by finding Twilight!”

I looked at him in shock as I stopped crying, but had a tear-stained look on my face until I looked at him at the eye. He was right….I was so stupid to think I would commit suicide.

“Jack! That’s enough!” Mason came forward and made him put me down on the ground. “Listen, I understand your frustration but threatening him won’t help him.”

“Tch! Whatever.” Jack scoffed before looking towards me. “Listen nerd, do you really want to take your own life? So what if you’ve been bullied? If you were keep thinking that your life was so meaningless in the past, why are you still here?”

“Huh?” I asked in confusion.

“I think I get what he’s saying.” Ren said. “He means that if you hated your own life, why are you still alive? If you are still here with us, then that means that you kept feeling strong and gave up, right?”

“S-strong…” I muttered before slowly widening my eyes in surprise. They’re right…I could’ve taken my own life whenever I wanted to over the years…but here I am, crying and be confronted by an angry biker…it would mean that I was strong to try and face my fears, and I…almost took my own life away.

“Jamie?” I looked over to Kaede, who held a worried look on her face. “I get why you wanted to do this to yourself, but do you really want to kill yourself? Do you think…that’s what Twilight or anyone would’ve wanted?”

“…..No….” I shook my head, looking down with a sad look. “I was such an idiot to try and even take my own life. I should’ve expected better of myself not to do that.”

“Jamie…”

“I should have been determined enough to search for her and Nicole, but instead here I am…planning my own death. I really am an idiot…” I sighed.

“Jamie, don’t say that.” Kaede smiled before walking over and hugging me, catching me off-guard. “You’re not an idiot. I get it that you don’t have any special super powers, you’re just…normal. But so are all of us but we kept believing in the talents we possess.”

“She’s right you know.” Ren nodded with a smile. “I mean, I’m just your everyday average high school student that you normally would see every day. I mean, the only thing I’m good at is being a video gamer. But even so, we still keep moving forward and I’m sure you can too!”

“Yeah!” Carrie nodded in agreement. “I mean, I’m just an ordinary girl in an ordinary wealthy family with my big brother, but I know that you’re a great person Jamie. I mean, you are a novelist, right?”

“Indeed he is, Carrie.” Mason nodded. “You know, you have a way with words and your knowledge is quite amazing. It’s been proven useful to us many times whenever we needed it. It just shows that you aren’t useless as you think.”

“I’m not gonna compliment your or whatnot, but you’re at least a lot better than these ponies here.” Rantaro added.

“E-everyone…” I muttered in surprise before looking over to see Jack glaring at me as I looked at him and asked “You must be still mad at me, aren’t you Jack? It’s understandable after the stunt I’ve tried to pull but…I’m gonna try. I…just want to be strong…just like you and Ren.”

“Huh? Just like me?” Ren asked in surprise. “What do you mean?”

“Truth be told Ren…” I looked at him with a serious look. “I always envy you whenever you cheer up the others with your kindness and supporting words, you never show any hint of fear when facing off against enemies. Like how you handled Iron Will like it was no big deal, you were amazing.”

“I…have no idea that you were jealous of me.” Ren admitted, rubbing his head with a sheepish smile.

“It’s true, you’re so much better than I am.” I sighed before letting out some tears. “There’s no way that I could ever match up to you…” I soon turned to Jack, who still held his glare as I continued “And you Jack, you’re so big, tough, a bit of a brute sometimes, but you never back down from anything. I admired your strength and determination…but I wonder if I could ever had that strength.”

Jack stared at me for a moment before stepping forward with a darkened look, much to the other’s worried. I looked at him, having a slightly determined look because I felt like he was gonna punch me or knee me in the stomach like before. However, he didn’t do either but instead…

“O-oh!” I looked over to see him ruffling my hair with a toothy grin.

“Well, didn’t know you looked up to me as some admirer.” He just grinned at me, and he didn’t even lash or tried threatening at me like he did before. He…appreciated me. “Well even so, what you did was incredibly stupid but…I forgive ya. If you were able to stand your ground for this long, then I guess it nearly makes you a man.”

“R-really?” I asked incredulous.

“I guess he might have a point.” Mason nodded in agreement, crossing his arms with a serious look but I saw a small smile through his long red scarf. “I saw what you wrote on that journal describing your suicidal thoughts, but you never showed a sign of wanting to commit suicide till now. Like Jack said, if you were able to stand your ground for this long, then indeed you are getting strong.”

I held my mouth agape to that as Kaede chuckled and remarked “They’re right. You even lash at Iron Will from before he could have punched Ren in the face.”

“Could we not talk about that?” Ren pleaded with a deadpanned look.

“Yeah! Who could also forget how you stood up to those two ponies back at Canterlot?” Carrie reminded him, much to Jamie’s embarrassment.

“She’s right you know.” Ren nodded with a grin. “All this time, you kept saying that you were weak and unreliable, but you just never realize that you had incredible strength inside Jamie.”

“Y-yeah…I suppose so.” I smiled a bit before frowning. “But how could I have a great personality like the both of you? You always never give up but I have the personality that can give up.”

“Don’t be like that. Anyone can do it, even you.” Ren assured with a soft smile. “If you just have faith in your abilities, you’ll see that you aren’t useless. You really are a reliable guy that we can always count on.”

I looked at Ren in shock as I took in the advice he gave to me. Have faith in yourself…Alright…I have to have faith in myself. I gave Ren and the others a smile before bowing with an apologetic look and said “Thank you so much! And also, I’m sorry for what I tried to do. I didn’t mean to do that! I wasn’t thinking straight!”

“Whatever, just settle down.” Jack assured, patting me on the back hard. “Now that we found ya, let’s get down to real business.”

“Oh yeah! We need to look for Nicole and Twilight!” Carrie gasped, remembering who else we’re looking for.

“Where in the world do you think they could be?” Rantaro thought aloud. “I mean, that psychologist is good appearing out of nowhere whenever we need her but to her disappearing like that is unusual…”

“And plus…” Kaede turned to me with a curious look and asked “Didn’t you say that Cadance trapped her in a ring of flames and disappeared from it.”

“Yes, but the problem is I don’t know where she sent her.” I shook my head.

“Hmm…this is sort of troubling, indeed.” Mason sighed, tapping his chin in thought. “If only there was a way we could find them.”

No, then we won’t be able to find neither Twilight nor Nicole! Just where could Cadance do to them!? Suddenly, we heard a loud noise before looking over to see…

“Ah, about time.” Rantaro smirked before seeing his raccoon friend, Gizmo, running towards him before leaping onto his shoulders with a note in his hand. “Ah, looks like you came back and wrote something down to tell us the scoop, eh?”

“Wait, what are you saying Rantaro?” Kaede asked.

Rantaro let out an amused grin before he replied “See, after little miss imposter had insulted Pinkie’s party room. I grew suspicious on her, along with Nicole and I asked Gizmo to keep an eye out for her and write it down in a sheet of paper to tell us what he saw.”

“Wait, you taught him how to write?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“Yeah, he’s not some one-trick pony.” Rantaro remarked. “He’s got many tricks up to his sleeve.”

“Unbelievable…” Mason muttered in surprise. “I heard that raccoons are quite intelligent, but never have I imagined that it was capable of doing something like that.”

“Who cares about it! What the hell did that squirt say?!” Jack demanded.

“Aye aye, hold in your gut, fatso.” Ignoring the squawking from  Jack himself, Rantaro received the note from Gizmo and began reading aloud for us to hear.

“Rantaro, I saw the princess do something to Nicole. She was busy talking with some guard before she was knocked by that pink pony princess bride. She used her magic to trapped Nicole in a ring of green flames and she was gone without any trace. I heard her muttering something about some ‘mines’ or something.”

“Mines?” I asked in confusion.

“They could be anywhere…” Rantaro muttered, rubbing his chin in thought. “Hmm…gotta say, we won’t be able to find them anywhere. We don’t even know where these mines could be.”

“That doesn’t mean we should give up!” Ren exclaimed.

“Y-yeah!” I nodded in agreement. “We just need to figure out if anypony knows about the mines.”

“What about Princess Celestia? Maybe she has a clue about it.” Kaede suggested.

“Are you kidding me?” Jack scoffed. “She’s too pissed off with Twilight that she doesn’t care, especially after witnessing Jamie fleeing the room in tears.”

“Y-yeah…I don’t think it’s a wise idea to consult her with it.” I sighed, realizing that he may have a point.

“Well this is certainly quite a pickle we’re in…” Rantaro muttered, looking down in deep thought. “Hmm…who else can lead us to find these mines?”

“Ooh! Ooh! I think I got one!” Carrie immediately raised her hand in the air as we all looked at her with confusion.

“What is it?” Kodi asked curiously. “I mean, we’re pretty much running out of ideas so far.”

“Same here.” Rantaro sighed irritably. “Alright little princess, what you got?”

“I think I know someone who could help.” Huh? Really? Who could it be?



Later

Huh? She took us all the way over to her room? Apparently, Carrie led us over around the castle before showing us a door that had a crescent moon mark on it along with some twinkling stars on it. 

“You see, Princess Celestia told me that she would be here a while back when we came to Canterlot.” Carrie explained.

“Heh, better be worth it.” Jack scoffed, picking his ear a bit.

“Trust us, Princess Luna is a cool pony just like her sister.” Ren assured.

“I just hope she could help us.” Kaede wondered before knocking on the door. We waited for anything to happen, but no answer. “Huh? No one’s answering.”

“Does that mean she isn’t here?” Kodi asked.

“No, hold on.” Rantaro stepped forward towards the door, pushing Carrie to the side before taking something out his pockets along with Gizmo as he took something out of his fur coat as the two began doing something to the doorknob, and before you know it…

CLICK!

The doors slowly opened, much to our surprise.

“What? It’s open?” Kaede asked in surprise.

“Yep, just a little trick we learned.” Rantaro smirked, holding out a hair pin in his hands while Gizmo showed off his claws. “Unlocking these locks may be difficult, but we’re experts onto doing this. If you want, I can teach you guys how to pick-pocket locks like a boss…for 600 bits.”

We all gave him deadpanned and blank looks due to the price and offer he gave to us.

“Yeah…no.” Kaede shook her head before asking “But…are you sure it’s right to just sneak into Princess Luna’s room.”

“Oh relax, if she’s like her older sister or so you told me that she has a sister, I bet she’s as gentle as Celeste.” Rantaro shrugged before entering through the doors.

“Hey! Wait up!” Ren called out, chasing after him while the rest of us went after them, hoping that we don’t bumped into Princess Luna and hope that she doesn’t feel upset about what we might try and do in her room. We looked around, seeing the whole room covered with paintings of many constellations, a telescope over by the balcony outside her room through the glass doors, a mural of shooting stars, twinkling constellations and a full moon painted on the ceiling of the wall. Her whole room’s color design were as the same as her coat body.

“Whoa…it looks pretty stellar.” Carrie commented.

“I know that Luna is a big fan of the night time…” Ren stated in surprise. “But I never knew that she was this much of a big fan.”

“Yeah, but you know her and Princess Celestia.” Kaede chuckled.

“So…where could she be?” I wondered aloud. We all investigated the room together and tried to look for any trace for her. Oh no, what if Cadance did something horrible to her…no, she’s one of the royal princesses of Equestria. She’ll be fine…maybe.

“Where is this princess you guys keep talking about?” Jack questioned before sitting down on the bed, hearing an ‘OOF’ sound, much to our surprise. He immediately gotten off as the sheets of the bed began to slowly rise up, revealing to be none other than…

“Princess Luna?!” Me, Ren, Mason, Carrie, and Kaede screamed out in surprise. 

“Ah…who dares thou wakes me up?” Princess Luna asks groggily before noticing us. “Ah, Ren Loodan, Mason and Carrie Hunter, Kaede Ross, and Jamie Watson. Long time no see it would see.”

“Good day Princess Luna.” Mason greeted with a soft smile. “It is quite nice to see you once again.”

“Yeah, we haven’t seen each other since Hearth’s Warming Eve and Christmas Day.” I added with a soft smile.

“Cherish the thought. I am glad to see you all here.” Princess Luna chuckled before noticing both Rantaro and Jack as she made a solemn look. “Hmm…so these one of the new humans that has appeared in Equestria, huh?”

“Yo!” Jack waved at her.

“Hey.” Rantaro shrugged.

“…Charming.” Ooookay…I feel as though this meeting is getting awkward.

“Yeah, the biker is Jack Yamaki and the one with the fedora is Rantaro Wilde.” Ren explained. “But now’s not the time for self-introduction.”

“He’s right. We’re just wasting time.” Rantaro agreed.

“Why? What is going on?” Princess Luna questioned. “Did something happened at the wedding?”

“I-I think it’s more than that, your majesty…” I sighed, much to the Princess of the Night’s confusion. 

“Princess Luna…did you hear about the ‘threat’ that came to the kingdom?” Mason asked.

“Why yes. My sister told me about it and asked Captain Shining Armor to create a powerful force field that blocks the entire city of Canterlot.” Princess Luna nodded. “Why did you ask about that?”

“Because I think the threat is already inside.” Princess Luna stared at Mason with widened eyes.

“I-It’s true!” I nodded in agreement with a worried look. “Apparently, the force field may have prevent evil forces from entering outside, but do you think it’s possible that they were already inside of Canterlot the moment the threat was delivered to the castle?”

“I…supposed that is quite a possibility.” Princess Luna nodded. “Tell me, did you humans figure out who this threat might be that we are dealing with?”

“Well…it’s sorta complicated.” Kaede said, rubbing her cheek in embarrassment.

“Basically, it’s your little niece, Princess Mi Amore whatever.” Rantaro answered, much to the princess’s shock as we stared at him in surprise. “What? We’re already wasting time with this pointless conversation the longer we stay here.”

“What?! Are you serious?!” Princess Luna exclaimed.

“It may be hard to believe, but yes.” I nodded, making a sad frown. “She even did something to Twilight and probably to Nicole as well as she trapped them into a ring of green flames.”

“That is true.” Mason nodded. “If what Jamie and Gizmo stated is true, then it’s sorta strange that her magic aura will do something like that.”

“Huh? What do you mean big brother?” Carrie asked curiously.

“Your brother means that Cadance’s magic aura’s color was different. Tell me, have you ever seen her use magic before?” Princess Luna questioned.

“Yes.” He nodded with a serious look on his face. “When we last met, I saw her magic aura was pink, but what Jamie stated was that it was green.”

“Strange…” Princess Luna muttered.

“What? What’s so strange?” Jack questioned.

“I think she’s talking about the magic aura color, right?” Kaede guessed, which the Princess of the Night nodded.

“Is it possible that it can change color?” Kodiak asked.

“No, that isn’t possible.” I muttered loudly, enough for the others to hear. “When unicorns cast magic, it produced a colored aura around their horns and any objects their magic affects. The color of the glow is different among individuals, usually matching the color of their eyes or a prominent color of their cutie mark. The color is distinctive to each unicorn…”

“Ooh, now I get it.” I froze in fear upon finding out what I said. 

“Oh no, not again!” I complained, but Ren shook his head with a smile and replied “No worries James. It was pretty helpful.”

“O-oh…thank you.” I smiled softly.

“So what can make it change different aura colors?” Kodi asked curiously.

“I am not sure…” Princess Luna shook her head. “But what you say is true, then I must say that Cadance is not the Cadance I knew when I finally came back to Equestria.”

“Yeah! We get that princess!” Jack exclaimed. “Not after what Jamie told us what she frigging did to Twilight and Nicole! We have to do something and fast!”

“Right! We need to warn my sister and the rest of the bearers of the Elements of Harmony about this.” We all looked at each other with worried and scared looks. Well…this might be tough to explain this to her. She soon noticed the looks on our faces as she raised a brow and asked “What?”

“U-umm…Princess Luna? About that…”

“Those girls, Twilight’s brother, and your sister abandoned your sister after she made the fake Cadance cry after she figured out something was up with her. Unfortunately, that crazy imposter of a hag cried out some tears, which I guess were fake, to fool the others and they abandoned her butt out of there.”

We all stared at Jack for what he just said, much to his surprise and confusion.

“What? Isn’t that what we’re doing?” Jack questioned.

“WHAT?!” Princess Luna screamed out in a loud voice, causing the rest of us to cover our ears. “Tia! You disgraceful pony of a princess! When I confront you, you shall be getting a loud lecture from me!”

“Ooh, I never seen her this angry before since Nightmare Night!” Carrie whispered to her brother, which he nodded in agreement.

“Quite.” Mason replied.

“But anyway…” Ren spoke up with a serious look. “We think that they might have taken to some mines or what we might’ve gotten from the fake Cadance before she made both Twilight and our other friend, Nicole disappeared.”

“Mines…” Princess Luna muttered. “Do you happen to talk about the crystal mines underneath the castle?”

“You know about it?” Kaede asked in confusion.

“Yes. Tia explained it to me that the crystal mines used to belong to greedy unicorn miners who wanted to claim the gems that could be found inside of the mines, but never to be seen again. Only a few such as myself, and my sister knew about the mines.” Princess Luna explained.

“Oh crap!” Jack cursed herself.

“I see…” Rantaro rubbed his chin with an amused smirk. “Well it would seem that we gotten ourselves a new journey.”

“You’re right. If Twilight and Nicole are down there, then that’s what where we need to go as well!” Ren stated with a determined look before taking out his Hacking Gun. “Let’s hurry before it’s too late.”

“Yeah but…there’s one thing I don’t get.” Kodi wondered. “Why does that fake Cadance wants to marry Shining Armor in the first place?”

We all looked at each other in surprise, realizing that Kodiak had a good point. Oh man…I never did think of that. But whatever it is, it’s not good that’s for sure!

“Whatever that crazy faker is planning, we gotta stop it!” Jack exclaimed, cracking his knuckles with an angry look. 

“Right!” Mason nodded.

“D-do you think you could take us there?” I asked curiously, which Princess Luna nodded.

“Yes. I can transport us all through a portal to get there.” Princess Luna nodded.

“Awesome! Let’s go!” Carrie said in excitement until Mason shook his head and said “No Carrie, it’s best if some of you stayed behind.”

“What?!” Carrie asked in shock.

“But why?” Ren asked in surprise.

“We don’t know what could possibly be down there. It’s best if some of us went down there with Princess Luna before we might end up getting hurt or worse.” Mason explained. “That’s why I should come.”

“While you losers stay by, I’m coming too!” Jack growled.

“Now hold on…I don’t think it’s get idea. It’s best if you stay here as well Jack.” Jack turned to Mason with an angry glare and exclaimed “What?!”

“Trust me Jack, what if something happens during the wedding. I can’t help but wonder what that imposter is planning. It’s best if you stayed here and help out. Trust me.” Mason assured with a serious look.

“He might have a point.” Ren nodded in agreement. “But I’m coming too Mason! You and Luna can’t do this alone! With my Hacking Gun, I can totally take them on!”

“Well…” Mason glanced away, unsure to bring Ren with him and Luna. “I’m not sure Ren. You may have the Hacking Gun but it might dangerous.”

“Mason is right. There are thou traps that I’ve heard that their might be down there.” Luna nodded in agreement.

“So what? I’m not gonna leave my friends behind!” Ren shook his head with a serious and determined look. I gripped onto the book in my hands, forming a slightly determined look. 

“U-umm…excuse me, everyone?” Everyone turned or glance towards me with curious looks. “I…please, take me with you!”

“What?” Mason asked in surprise.

“Please! Twilight’s down there! Along with Nicole! We have to do something!” I exclaimed. “I-I want to help and I want to prove myself that I am reliable in your eyes! I want to be prove that I’m not weak!”

“Jamie…” Ren muttered in surprise as I fell to my knees and did a bow to them. 

“Please…give me a chance. I want to prove to myself that I can do it. I want to save Twilight and Nicole down there…so please…” I kept pleading while the others looked at me in surprise. I can’t let Twilight die down there, and neither should Nicole.

“…Alright dude, let’s go!” Huh? I looked up to see Ren raising his hand towards me with a determined look. “Don’t leave me hanging! Let’s go!”

“O-oh…Okay.” I nodded in agreement.

“It’s best if me, Carrie, Kodiak, Rantaro, and Jack stayed behind for the wedding.” Kaede suggested. “I mean, you three are the strongest compared to us, well except Jack. He can handled in pretty much a fight with anypony he meets.”

“And don’t you ever forget it, toots.” Jack grinned boastfully, causing some of us to roll our eyes. 

“Well then, let us make hast!” Princess Luna’s horn glowed as she created a dark blue portal, much to our surprise.

“Ren, are you sure you’re gonna be okay?” Kodi asked in worried.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be fine.” Ren assured, scratching him underneath the chin, much to his joy. “I got my friends, and my Hacking Gun by my side.”

“Big brother, please be careful.” Carrie begged, which Mason nodded before she came over and hugged her brother, which he hugged back as well.

“You better be alright nerd.” Jack remarked with a light scoff while I looked at him with a slight nod and smile. 

“D-don’t worry…I-I’ll be alright.” I assured with a soft smile. It seemed like that my smile gotten him to ruffle my hair with a light chuckle.

“Now that’s better.” Jack chuckled. “Get to it or else don’t make me kick your butt if you die on us.”

“T-trust me…I’ll do good.” I nodded.

“Well we hope to see you all get back here safe and sound.” Kaede held a worried look before asking “But what happens if you don’t make it in time?”

“Don’t worry, leave it to me.” Rantaro assured with a light chuckle. “Hee hee…I thought I should let you know that I have a great reputation in weddings.”

“And what kind of reputation is that?” Mason questioned, raising a brow at him.

“Sorry guard boy, but I’m afraid that you got a job to do and so do we.” Rantaro chuckled. “So good luck.”

“…Fine.” Mason sighed.

“Don’t worry guys, we’ll back before the bride and groom says ‘I do’ to each other!” Ren nodded with a smirk before turning to Princess Luna as he held his Hacking Gun and said “We’re ready Princess Luna! Let’s go!”

“…Very well.” Princess Luna nodded before the rest of us began walking into the portal towards the abandoned crystal mines. Before I could take my step, I looked back at the gang as they gave me encouraged yet concern looks, presumably due to us having the feeling that we might not make it. I gave him them a soft but awkward smile before jumping into the portal and landing onto the cold hard ground. 

With that, I took one last look at the portal and saw it closing for good.

“Welcome to the abandoned crystal mines.” Princess Luna called as we all looked around the area, seeing many floating crystals in different colors like pink, purple, red, blue, yellow, and green. Some were still entrapped in the rocky walls. I took note of this in my journal and decided to copy down a map which might hopefully help us through this place in search of our friends. 

“Whoa, this place looks awesome.” Ren stated in awe. “It’s like we’re inside of an RPG dungeon!”

“Ren, focus.” Mason said sternly. “Right now, we need to find our friends and fast.”

“Indeed.” Princess Luna nodded. “But thou must warn ya that this place is full of dead ends and booby traps. It is best if we keep calm and don’t fall behind.”

“O-Okay!” I nodded with a meek smile. “But…where should we go?” 

“Hmmm…” Princess Luna thought for a while before looking around to see an old entrance covered with planks. “Something tells me over there.”

“Princess Luna, do you know where we’re even going?” Mason questioned.

“Unfortunately not. I only heard rumors about and its’ traps, but never about the rest of the area.” Princess Luna shook her head. “I am sorry…”

“It’s alright you guys.” Ren assured. “We just gotta believe in our gut feelings.”

“No offence, but I think we need more than ‘gut feelings’.” I retorted. “Right now, we should explore this place.”

“Good idea Jamie.” Mason nodded in agreement as the the four of us began looking around the mines in hopes of finding our friends. Where could Twilight and Nicole be? They have to be here somewhere right? No…you need to have faith just like they said. Believe in them…

“Let’s try going there first.” Ren said, pointing over to the boarded up entrance. “It might be something that imposter could’ve hidden them there.”

“I’m not sure about that…” Mason shook his head with an unsure look. “It seems way too obvious.”

“Mason Hunter has a point, Ren.” Princess Luna nodded. “Wouldn’t that be too obvious?”

“Well…I guess you have a point.” Ren sighed. “Actually, now that I think about it…I remember this let’s play I saw on Bendy and The Ink Machine that something came popping out of a boarded up door and tried attacking the player.”

“R-Really?” I asked in fear.

“That’s ridiculous. This isn’t a game.” Mason stated seriously before blinking in surprise and slowly looked around the place.

“What? What’s up?” Ren asked curiously.

“Did you guys…hear something?” Mason asked, much to our confusion.

“H-hear what?” I asked, clutching onto my notebook in fear. Princess Luna narrowed her eyes as well before we heard some loud banging as the rest of us turned over to the boarded up entrance as it began banging over and over again till it began breaking apart.

“YOU! FOOLS! BETRAYED!” W-w-w-what?! Suddenly, the entrance immediately got broken down, revealing to be…some short of shadow with yellow eyes and it was in the shape of a pony.

“PROMISED! MURDERERS!” 

“AHHHHHH!” I screamed out loud as it charged towards us.

“Gah! Break!” Ren screamed, firing a ‘Break’ bullet at the ghost, completely destroying it. “What the heck was that?!”

“That’s what I’m wondering.” Mason nodded as Princess Luna looks over at the shadow with a shocked look. “Your majesty? Do you anything about it?”

“T-this shadow…I felt as though I’ve seen it before…” Princess Luna gasped.

“Yeah…same here.” Ren nodded, calming down a bit. “Wait…that shadow! It looked exactly like the ones that attacked at Nightmare Night!”

“Wait what?” I asked in confusion and shock.

“You see…” Ren rubbed the back of his head with a sheepish grin. “Before me and the others met you for the first time, our Halloween/Nightmare Night celebration got interrupted by those shadow monsters like the one we just saw but…now I’m wondering is what is one of them doing down here?”

“I am confused of this revelation too…” Princess Luna nodded in agreement. “Why was one down here?”

Before any of us could question it, we heard some loud noises emanating down here as the rest of us turned to see more shadows escaping through the hole.

“MONSTERS! TRAITORS! YOU PROMISED TO SAVE US!” 

“WAAAAAH! There’s more of them?!” I screamed out in fear as my face began to turn a lot more pale than before.

“Apparently so.” Mason took out his wooden pole and began attacking the shadows while Ren raised his gun and shot multiple ‘Break’ bullets at them. 

“Stand back you fiends of the darkness!” Princess Luna threatened before firing a dark blue magic beam at a group of shadow-like ponies, completely destroying them.

I began backing away before hearing a loud and creepy noise behind me, prompting me to turned around and saw a shadow-like pony staring at me with a loud snarl, causing me to scream out in fer before falling on my back and began backing away from her.

“P-please…leave me alone!” I begged as the pony slowly crept towards me.

“YOU FOOL! YOU PROMISED US TO LET US GO! YOU PROMISED US TO SAVE US!” Huh? What it saying? Before I could think more, the shadow in front of me started glowing before I noticed a horn on his head. “NOW! LET’S SEE HOW YOU FEEL TO BE LEFT IN THE DARKNESS!”

I flinched in fear and closed my eyes as it was prepared to hurt me until I heard a loud moan as I opened my eyes and saw Ren taking out that monster with a ‘Paralyze’ bullet, causing it to be frozen in place before disappearing.

“You okay man?” Ren raised his hand to me as I looked at him in surprise before nodding and grabbing his arm, getting right back on my own two feet.

“Y-yeah…thank you.” I nodded before noticing a bunch of other shadows attacking us. Mason began swatting them away with his pole like a professional Ken-do master would’ve done. He was quite perfecting any move that comes natural with Ken-do like the Renzoku Waza as he moved in towards one of the shadows through a rhythm of correct strikes and throwing the opponent off-guard. 

Princess Luna fired multiple magic beams at many shadows while Ren defended me by using multiple ‘Break’ bullets. He then switched the dial around before firing a ‘Link’ bullet towards one of the shadows, gaining control of it as they began attacking their own brethren. I stood there, wondering what can I do before noticing a bunch of shadows jumping into the air and preparing to attack Ren from behind.

“No! Look out!” I pushed Ren out of the way and raised my hands in the air in fear, but before you know it……nothing. I felt nothing knocking me down. I slowly opened my eyes and gasped a little, seeing a blue shield surrounding me and the shadows were already gone. I blinked in shock as the shield immediately disappeared as I looked at my raised hand. What the?

“What was…that?” Mason asked, looking around the area. “Where did those all those shadows go?”

“I…don’t know.” I shook my head before looking at my hands. Did…I had something to do with it? 

“Luna, was that you?” Ren asked her, but she shook her head.

“I’m afraid not. It wasn’t me. I was too busy destroying some of the shadows.” Luna replied, much to our surprise. So then…who-

“TRAITORS!” We looked over to hear more voices coming towards the entrance.

“Oh crap-baskets!” Ren yelled out. “Not this again! We’re gonna hit by another wave of shadows!”

I looked around before noticing a bunch of rocks lying between the walls of the entrance….Wait, that’s it!

“Ren, shoot at those boulders!” I pointed over them, much to Ren’s confusion. “J-Just do it!”

“You got it!” Ren nodded before raising his Hacking Gun and shouting “Knock-Back!”

He fired a gust of wind on the rocks, blowing them towards the entrance, blocking the path as the shadows were howling and screaming.

“That was a close one.” Mason sighed. “I never expected to see those things again.”

“Trust us, neither did we.” Princess Luna nodded in agreement. “But why are they here? I thought that was the last of them…”

“True…” I muttered. Just what we’re they? What were they saying? Traitors? Betrayal? It’s like they’re blinded by their emotions…

“It’s…best if we didn’t think about it.” Ren suggested, which the rest of us nodded in agreement. “Right now, we should get going through these caverns.”

“Right!” We nodded before making our way through the cave in search of Twilight and Nicole. I’m wondering how those two are doing…I just hope they’re doing alright…



Later
Nicole’s POV

We sure been walking around for quite a while…I’m pretty sure that we’re lost…no wait, we’re definitely lost.

“Ooh! We just have to hurry! Who knows what that fake imposter is going to do to Shining?!” Cadance exclaimed in worried.

“Don’t worry Cadance, we promise that we’re gonna stop that fake you in order to save Canterlot!” Twilight assured with a determined grin. Speaking of which…

“Excuse me, Miss Cadance?” I questioned, gaining these two ponies’ attention. “Exactly how long have you been down here?”

“I would say since the threat to Canterlot was made.” Cadance explained. “And that happened several weeks again. I thought I was gonna die…but luckily you two came…”

“I see…” I nodded. “But do you also know about your captor’s identity?”

“I do…and I know what they are.” Hm? What they are? 

“You do?” Twilight asked in surprise, which Cadance nodded.

“Of course! She’s a-”

Before she could finish, we heard another dark laughter coming through the mines as we looked at one of the crystals to see the fake ‘Cadance’ in front of us.

“My my, you three sure are persistent. Don’t you ever just give up and abandoned all the love and hope to ever see your ‘friends’ again?” The fake ‘Cadance’ mockingly laughed as Twilight glared at her and exclaimed “Keep laughing all you want! We’re not giving up!”

“Oh surely you must. Face it, my plans are nearly complete. Once I have Shining by my side, all of the love in Canterlot…no, all of Equestria’s love will be mine!” Huh? All of Equestria’s love? I narrowed my eyes a bit and demanded “What…do you mean? Why are you saying it like that?”

“Hmm? What do you mean human girl?” The fake ‘Cadance’ questioned with a confused look.

“You’re saying that you’re interested in this love in all of Equestria. If it’s something like wanting to have power by getting into the royal family with Shining, then maybe I would have believed you…” I narrowed my eyes and pointed at the hologram. “But you said that you are interested in love? What exactly do you mean?”

“Hmph, why not ask the real Princess Cadance for that?” The fake ‘Cadance’ mockingly chuckled as the real Cadance walked over with a glare and exclaimed “Forget it you Changeling! You won’t be winning Shining’s heart!”

“Ooh, I’m afraid that isn’t possible.” The fake ‘Cadance’ chuckled.

“So you’re a Changeling…” I muttered.

“A Changeling?” Twilight asked in confusion. “I feel as though I heard that name from before.”

“Oh right Twilight, I think you read about it once you were a filly. You see-”

“A Changeling is an insect pony-like bug creature that has the ability to shape-shift into many identities and objects, which would be hard to tell and not only that, they seemed to also have the ability to suck in the love out of people’s hearts, which could result into them to long-term of comatose or in rare cases, death. Am I right?”

Cadance and Twilight stared at me in shock while the fake ‘Cadance’ raised a brow as I sensed that she was impressed by my intellect and how I knew she was gonna say that.

“Y-yeah…I am generally surprised that you could have figured that out.” Cadance stated in surprise.

“Hmph…so what if you do. You fools still don’t have a chance stopping me at my wedding.” The fake ‘Cadance’ laughed. “Not even you’re friends can stop me, Twilight Sparkle. Not even after the stunt you pulled to cause them to hate on you, even the fair Princess Celestia and your brother did.”

Twilight winced before slumping her head down with sadness while me and Cadance looked at her in confusion. I looked at her for a while and saw through her eyes. It was the same look she had when I found out that she and her brother betrayed each other, which means…!

“Twilight…what is she talking about?” Cadance asked in confusion.

“You see…” Twilight sighed sadly. “I…may have tried to pin you, or at least, the imposter, that she was evil after she starting being mean to my friends while we worked on the wedding, and I tried to convince them, but neither of them believed in me…”

“Which not only resulted in your brother in abandoning you, but the others as well, right?” I narrowed my eyes a bit. I don’t get it…I thought that they stated that they would always be together and never leave each other, so why would they do that? They weren’t lying at the time.

“Yeah…” Twilight sighed sadly. “But I guess I was the fool to even believed in them…well except for Ren and the others. They stood by my side before I drove them away, wishing to be alone…”

“And that was beautiful.” We all glared at the fake ‘Cadance’ as she continued “Thanks to you, now I have no distractions from neither your or your annoying bunch of your friends or humans in my plans.”

“Acting all arrogant will make you fall.” I stated. “You think you won, but you won’t know until your plan is completely finished.”

“Hmph, I don’t need to let it finish on what I’m about to do.” The fake ‘Cadance’ scoffed. “I know that I will be successful. I do not anyone to tell me what to do.”

“…Alright…” I shrugged, walking off as the others nearly fell over in an anime-like style as the fake ‘Cadance’ shouted “Hey wait! Where do you think you’re going?!”

“To look for an exit. Come on Twilight, Cadance, let’s leave her before we get annoyed.” I said politely, which the other two blinked in surprise before nodding.

“You little…! You really think you’ll find the exit?! Besides, what’s the point?” The fake ‘Cadance’ scoffed. “You really think that you’ll be thanked by your ‘friends’ and brother and even the princess, not after what she did.”

“I’m well aware what happened. But they were all too busy with the wedding to even suspect you.” I stated. “So I guess it’s technically not their fault to not suspect you, but what I don’t appreciate others leaving alone in tears and sorrow.”

“Ha, like I care about those weak emotions.” ‘Cadance’ scoffed.

“Hey imposter, could you do me a favor and please be quiet?” I asked politely, much to the imposter’s anger. “Thank you.”

“Wow…” Twilight muttered in surprise. “Way to go shutting her off.”

“We should really focus to save Canterlot, Miss Twilight. So let’s go.” 

“You’re right! We need to hurry before it’s over!” Cadance nodded in agreement as the three of us began running while we saw multiple fake ‘Cadance’s’ through the crystals as they began laughing mocking at us. Oh, I guess she didn’t hear me to be quiet. Oh well…she’s too arrogant to even listen to us.

Wait…do I hear music?


(’Cadance’):
This day is going to be perfect
The kind of day of which I've dreamed since I was small
Everypony will gather 'round
Say I look lovely in my gown
What they don't know is that I have fooled them all!

(Princess Cadance):
This day was going to be perfect
The kind of day of which I've dreamed since I was small
But instead of having cake
With all my friends to celebrate
My wedding bells, they may not ring for me at all…

(’Cadance’):
I could care less about the dress
I won't partake in any cake
Vows, well I'll be lying when I say
That through any kind of weather
I'll want us to be together
The truth is I don't care for him at all
No I do not love the groom
In my heart there is no room
But I still want him to be all mine

(Princess Cadance):
We must escape before it's too late
Find a way to save the day
Hope, I'll be lying if I say
"I don't fear that I may lose him
To one who wants to use him
Not care for, love, and cherish him each day"
For I oh so love the groom
All my thoughts he does consume
Oh, Shining Armor, I'll be there very soon

(’Cadance’):
Finally the moment has arrived
For me to be one lucky bride

(Princess Cadance):
Oh, the wedding we won't make
He'll end up marrying a fake
Shining Armor will be...



(’Cadance’): 
...mine, all mine. 



The…musical number ended with ‘Cadance’ making an evil laugh while the rest of us looked around in worried and fear. We all looked around the place in search of an exit, but when the song was finally over, there was one thing that was in my mind.

“…Where did all that background music come from in a cave no less?” Oh well, it’s best not to dwell in it.

“Come on! Let’s hurry!” Cadance said before running ahead while me and Twilight ran followed after her. As we kept running, I glanced over at Twilight and thought of something to maybe make her feel a bit better.

“Hey…Twilight?” I called, gaining her attention. “I was wondering about what that imposter said and…who cares about what your friends did?”

“Huh? What do are you talking about?” Twilight cocked her head in confusion.

“I mean is that they never knew the truth and were being fooled around, or so that ‘Cadance’ said in her song.” I pointed out. “Your friends don’t know the truth. I understand that you feel so betrayed, but you need to remember…they’re your friends, aren’t they? You said that Ren and the other gang didn’t leave your side till you forced them to leave, right? That mean that they believed in you and felt concern for you.”

“…I guess you’re right…but Jamie…I may have said some horrible things back to him…” Twilight sniffed, looking down in sadness. “I’m not sure if he cares for me anymore…”

“Judging from his personality, he’s the type to forgive easily.” I smiled softly. “So I have a feeling that you do not have to worry.”

“…Well…I sure wished I knew that…” Twilight sighed while I gave her a soft and comfortable grin, which made her smile softly at me back. 

“Oh, we’re never going to save him!” We turned to see Cadance sitting on a rock, looking up on the ceiling with a mournful look.

Twilight and I looked at each other and nodded as she pulled a determined look and said “We will. We just have to find….”

“There!” I pointed upwards, seeing some light emanating from the cave upwards. “That may be the exit.”

“Perfect, let’s go!” Twilight smiled happily as the three of us began heading over there, but not until we heard some laughter coming from the shadows. We looked around before seeing a trio of eyes glaring down behind us. I stepped back with narrowed eyes and inspected those green eyes….strange….what..are they?

“You’re not going anywhere.” The trio of eyes revealing themselves to be…bridesmaids? And they looked like they have been beaten down judging by the way their clothes were teared apart. We began backing away in fear from the ladies…why now of all places? 

As the three began closing in on us…

“Paralyze!” We looked over to our left to see a bunch of yellow beams of light shooting towards the bridesmaid, shocking them by that static electricity.

We looked over to our right to see some familiar faces, which made Twilight become shocked to see one of them.

“…Jamie?”



Fifteen Minutes Earlier
Jamie’s POV

We’ve been walking down this path for a while now since we defeated and locked away those mysterious shadows but now we were getting deeper into the cave. 

“I’m still confused by those things we encountered.” Ren stated. “Those things remind me of the Heartless from Kingdom Hearts. Maybe they were dark creatures created from the dark hearts of humans.”

“Ren, please don’t be ridiculous.” Mason said with a serious look as we continued walking down a narrow path. “While it is true those things are quite confusing to begin with, I’m still not sure about those things appearing right here in the mines.”

“Me neither.” Princess Luna nodded in agreement. “What are a couple of creatures doing here? They should have been locked away in Tatarus…”

“Hold on…what do you mean?” I asked, blinking in confusion.

“You see, we remember before we ever turned into Nightmare Moon by succumbing to the darkness.” Princess Luna started to explain about the situation surrounding the shadows. “They were dark forces that came out of nowhere 10,000 years ago, and me and my sister taken care neutralizing the threat, sealing them away in Tatarus, but now they seemed to be finally escaping, but why here? This doesn’t make any sense…”

“Indeed…” Mason muttered in agreement before coming to a stop. “Huh? A dead end?”

“Wait what?” I asked in surprise before looking over to see the path we were walking in…had nowhere to go. No, it didn’t had a wall covering the place, the path itself was destroyed. 

“Aw man…now what?” Ren wondered, rubbing the back of his head.

“I don’t know…we could fly over but I’m not sure if Twilight Sparkle and Nicole Bonnie are on this side.” Princess Luna shook her head. “Let us try and find another path to go…”

“Yeah…” Mason nodded as the three of them began taking their leave while I stood there, looking over at the path with a sad look. I guess we don’t really have a choice but to find another way…I…I don’t know but…I just have this strange feeling…this feeling that…

I know…this feeling in my heart…I can feel Twilight’s presence over by that side…I just know that….I don’t why and I can’t explain how I knew…but I somehow knew…I know that there on the other side of this broken down path.

“Guys wait!” I called, gaining the other’s attention. I flinched a little from their curious stares before I shook it off and made a serious look. “How can we be so sure that they’re not over by the other side? I mean…it’s not worth checking, right?”

“What makes you say that dude?” Ren asked curiously.

“W-well…it’s…just a feeling.” I muttered. “So…could we at least try it out and see for ourselves.”

“That could be case…” Princess Luna spoken. “But I cannot carry you with all my might and my magic is nearly finished up from using all my energy fighting off all of those shadows…”

“That is a problem…” Mason muttered. I looked around before noticing a bunch of crystals slowly floating in the air. I narrowed my eyes and saw them blinking into different colors like blue, red, green, yellow, pink, and cyan….Wait, where have I seen those colors before?…Of course! 

“Hey Ren, do you mind if you shoot any of those crystals by using ‘Move’?” I asked curiously.

“Huh? Uhh…sure dude.” Ren nodded before aiming his Hacking Gun at the floating crystals. “Move!”

Ren shot a ‘Move’ bullet at the crystals, causing them to completely turn green as Ren began shooting more and more ‘Move’ bullets at every floating crystal we saw and before you know it…they lined up together as a path.

“Whoa…” Ren muttered in awe. “That’s just awesome. Looks like shooting those things created a path for us to cross.”

“Hmm…” Mason turned to me with a soft smile. “I guess you figured it out, huh?”

“Y-yeah…was it good enough?” I asked meekly and nervously before being feeling a hand on my shoulder as I looked over at Mason, who gave me a soft smile and nod. I smiled softly at him before the rest of us began crossing over it while Princess Luna flew to next to us. Ren, Mason, and I began jumping over by crystal by crystal.

“Man, good idea James! How did you figure that’ll work?” Ren asked curiously as we continued crossing over the path of floating crystals.

“W-well you see…when I saw the crystals glowing the same colors as the Truth Bullets from your Hacking Gun, I thought that maybe we could use ‘Move’ to make them go over and form a path…I just thought it could’ve work.” I explained, blushing a little while keeping focus on where I step so that I won’t fall down the bottomless pit.

“Well I say you’re plan really worked out dude.” Ren winked before we finally made it to the other side. I looked at Ren in awe before smiling over him. “I think you’re starting to change…I hardly hear you stuttering to yourself.”

“Thank you…” I thanked with a soft smile before we continue our way through the dark corners of the abandoned crystal mines. As we continued our way, we heard some squeaking before I looked over to see Mason’s pet squirrel duo looking around frantically in fear. 

“What’s wrong my friends?” Mason questioned in worried and concern. The two looked around in great concern before they hopped off and began scurrying through the place.

“What are they doing?” Ren wondered.

“I do not know.” Princess Luna shrugged before turning to Mason and asked “Young Mason, what are your little squirrel friends up to?”

“It looks like they might’ve found something.” Mason replied, but his tone of voice felt unsure about it. The two squirrels looked around before pointed over upwards over a long cliff. We looked over it to see…

“An exit!” Princess Luna blurted out. “So that’s what they found!”

“Huh, how intentional that we found it.” Ren said, blinking in surprise. “I guess maybe once we found Twilight and Nicole, we can go through there to escape.”

“Good idea.” I nodded before asking “But the only problem is…where are they?”

Suddenly, the two squirrel’s ears’ perked up before they immediately dashed back to us, mainly to Mason as they climbed and began pulling his hair.

“Ow! What? What is it, you two?” Mason asked as they kept pulling his hair, like they were trying to tell him something.

“I think they want to show us something.” I suggested, which made the two squirrels nod their heads.

“Show me what?” Mason asked as they pointed over in front of us as we began moving forward through the path before seeing a bunch of figures over by the side of the mines.

“You aren’t going anywhere.” Hey…who just said that? We looked over to see…bridesmaids stepping forward through the darkness at…

“Twilight?!” I blurted out in shock. “And Nicole?!”

“And dear Cadance!” Princess Luna yelled out. “What are they doing here?!”

“More importantly, what are those bridesmaids doing here as well?!” Ren exclaimed.

“It doesn’t matter right now! Right now, we gotta save them!” Mason yelled, which we nodded as we ran over to them by climbing down some rocky areas as Ren leaped down to the ground with his Hacking Gun by arm.

“Paralyze!” Ren shot a ‘Paralyze’ bullet straight at the bridesmaids, causing them to be electrocuted and frozen in shock. Twilight, Nicole, and apparently, Cadance, looked over to our right as they turned to us with surprised and shocked looks.

“…Jamie?” Twilight muttered in shock. “Is that…you?”

“Twilight…we’re here.” I panted, finally climbing back down on the ground with a heavy sigh. Before I even had the chance to move at all, I was immediately hugged by Twilight none other.

“I’m so glad that you came!” Twilight exclaimed in joy. “For a moment there, I thought you wouldn’t bother to save me. Not after what I did back there earlier. I’m so sorry…I was a major jerk.”

I gave her an awkward yet apologetic look and replied “H-hey…it’s okay. I’m the one who should apologizing for what I said back there. I was the major jerk.”

“Well…” Twilight gave me a soft smile. “I guess that makes us the biggest jerks, huh?”

I blushed a bit before hiding my face with my notebook and muttered “Y-yeah…I supposed so.”

“Nicole, are you alright?” We looked over to see Ren talking with Nicole with a concern look. “Is this where you’ve been? How did you get down here?”

“You could ask the imposter that tricked all of us for that.” Nicole answered. “It’s a long story, but I’ll tell you another time…okay?”

“O-okay…if you say so.” Ren nodded in agreement.

“Well I’m glad everyone’s alright.” Mason sighed before noticing Cadance staring right at him, “C-Cadance….?”

“Mason! It’s really is you!” Princess Cadance smiled happily before running over and chuckled in delight upon seeing Mason. “So I guess you really did came to the wedding. I’m really glad that we got to meet each other.”

Mason stared at her for a moment before making a soft smile at her and replied “Well…after we met last time for handing me Twilight’s birthday present, it was sort of returning the favor by coming to meet up with ya.”

“Tee-hee. I see.” Cadance chuckled before turning to Princess Luna. “Oh! Auntie Luna! You’re here too?”

“Yes, after all…we wouldn’t want to let our niece die in our hooves.” Princess Luna smiled before hugging her niece. “It is good to see ya again.”

“Me too! I’m so happy that you all came to save us!” Cadance smiled softly, letting out tears. 

“So you’re Cadance? Well, the real one, right?” Ren asked in surprise before smiling happily. “Well I’m glad to finally get to meet Twilight’s greatest foalsitter in all of Equestria.”

“Oh, I bet she said that you, huh?” Cadance looked over at Twilight, who looked away in embarrassment. “Well if it wasn’t for her allowing me to become her foalsitter, I wouldn’t met my Shining Armor.”

“Ha! Good one!” Ren chuckled with a grin.

“Well…I can safely say that we’re glad to see each other.” Mason smiled before forming a serious look. “But right now…we need to hurry before that faker tries to get married!”

“Y-you’re right! Let’s go!” I agreed, forming a serious and determined look of my own. Cadance took a good look at me and raised a brow before letting out a small gasp. “H-huh? Is there something wrong Princess Mi Amore Cadenza?”

“Huh? Oh it’s nothing…” She shook her head with an awkward soft smile. “Oh! And you can call me ‘Cadance’. It’s sorta a weird thing for anyone using my full name like that.”

“Right…sorry.” I nodded. 

“Let us make haste towards the exit!” Princess Luna said as we tried to make our getaway until we heard some hissing before looking back to see the three bridesmaid glaring down at us as they slowly began advancing at us.

“You all aren’t going anywhere.” The three chuckled darkly, causing me to feel afraid of them. Wait…their eyes…what’s going on with them? They weren’t like this before…!

“Dang it! Someone do something!” Ren exclaimed. I began feeling intimidated by them that I accidentally tripped over by a small rock, falling on my back before noticing a bunch of some flowers near me. Wait…a bouquet of flowers? What are they doing here? Hold on….It might a long shot but maybe it could work…

I immediately got up with the bouquet in my hands before waving it around in front of them, causing them to feel ‘Ooh’d’ by it before throwing it towards a pit, causing the three to immediately jump in after it.

“I WANT IT!” 

Phew…that took care of them. Everyone soon turned to me with shocked looks, which made me flinch in fear.

“W-what? I-I thought it would’ve worked but-”

“That was amazing! Good idea Jamie!” Twilight exclaimed in joy. “I didn’t even think that would’ve worked!”

“Well…that was quite a stereotypical way on how to beat them.” Nicole said bluntly before softly smiling at me. “But…could work and you don’t need to feel embarrassed about it.”

“H-hey! I-I don’t do that!” I exclaimed, which made the others either laughed or make amused smiles on their faces. 

“You know, you’re slowly starting to becoming more better and awesome by the minute, Jamie.” Ren chuckled, much to my embarrassment.

“H-hey…stop it.” I muttered with a blush while I twiddled my thumbs in embarrassment.

“Anyway, come on everypony! We got ourselves a wedding to crash!” Mason exclaimed in a serious manner. “Right now, we need to get to the exit in time!”

“Don’t worry, I’ll try and transport us up there.” Twilight assured. “I was planning on doing it since Cadance’s been down here for so long that she’s derived of enough energy to transport the rest of us up there. So allow me!”

“O-okay…we trust you, Twilight.” I softly smiled at her, which made Twilight smiled at me back before her horn glowed and before you knew it, we were already by the exit by a second.

“Yes! We made it!” Cadance beamed in happiness and excitement.

“Now come on, let’s go!” Ren shouted. “Hopefully Rantaro and the others are getting the wedding getting kept longer.”

“Wait, Rantaro and the others are trying to stall the wedding?” Twilight asked in confusion.

“Yep!” Ren nodded with a smile before rubbing the back of his head with a confused look. “Though…I wonder how’s he gonna stall a wedding?”

That’s…actually a good question. Rantaro stated that he’s been to many weddings back in his days back in our world and he’s experienced this kind of stuff…so like…how is he gonna do that?



Meanwhile
Rantaro’s POV

Okay, I think I get it now. In case of you kiddos didn’t figure it out, the wedding ceremony started out five minutes ago. I was over by the side with the common crowd while Jack stood by my side. Carrie and those little fillies began delivering the flowers by throwing them on the ground while the spoiling little bratty imposter princess began walking up towards the groom, who has been quiet for some time after we took our leave.

Ah yes, I don’t believe I told you why we’re even here. You see, me, Carrie, Kaede, Jack, and that mutt, Kodiak, headed back with the others as they questioned where Ren, Mason, and Jamie went. I made a quick lie by telling them that they went off to search for Nicole while we checked up on Twilight and Jamie, explaining it to them that they were alright but wanted to be left alone for a while. They seemed to believe in that and said that they were sorry for not checking on them, but we forgave them. Though, I didn’t forgive them being such a bunch of naive idiots. But now then, let’s get into some serious business…

Anyway, I looked over at the bride, seeing her making a smug look on her face. Wow, and none of these ponies are noticing this. Whoever she is, she may be good with disguises but she’s not good with copying down the real bride’s personality. I mean, I’m sure Celeste would’ve found out. Pretty much, I think anyone who ever knows her would find out…wow, it just shows that these guys are so stupid. At least Twilight found out, so she’s pretty much an exception. 

Now then, as soon as ‘Cadance’ managed to walked over next to her groom, Princess Celestia began announcing the proceedings of the wedding.

“Hey…” Jack whispered to me grudgingly. “Isn’t this your part to stall the wedding in time?”

“Yeah yeah, be patient fat biker.” I scoffed, much to his irritation. Now then…time to fun to begin.

“Mares and gentlecolts, we are gathered here today to witness the union of…”

“Your majesty!” I called, gaining her, ‘Cadance’, and Shining’s attention. “I object!”

“Wait what?!” Jack yelled out while everypony murmured in shock and confusion.

“Object? But we…haven’t gotten into that part yet.” Celeste pointed out.

“Then I’m objecting prematurely…Celeste.” I gave off a cocky smirk while the girls stared at me in shock and anger while Kodi, Kaede, and Carrie looked at each other in worried, wondering how is this a good plan.

I then scooted out of the way along with Jack, who was still glaring at me on what I was trying to do as we made our way through the crowd before walking over to the said lovebirds and such.

“Excuse me, brat.” ‘Cadance’ scoffed. “But we have a wedding to do. Not to deal with a freakish-”

“Yeah yeah, save it princess.” I chuckled, making the others gasped in shock.

“Rantaro! Jack! What are you two fellas doing?!” Applejack demanded.

“To be honest, I have no clues farm chick.” Jack shrugged.

I ignored the two as I gave him a smirk towards the bride and continued “Oh, well, if you to get your wedding done, you know…you got to use the big ‘L’.”

“The big ‘L’?” Princess Celestia questioned, raising a brow at me.

“That’s right!” I chuckled while Jack gave me an incredulous look.

“What the hell does that even mean?! Are you talking about les-”

“Nuh-uh! Not that kind of ‘L’ Jacky, my good boy.” I shook my head in amusement. Was he really gonna say that word? No no, I’m talking about that ‘L’ word. “I’m talking about love!”

“O-oh right! Yeah love!” Jack nodded before giving me an incredulous look and asked “What?!”

“That’s right! Love!” I wiggled my brows while ‘Cadance’ gritted her teeth and Celeste looked at me with a raised brow.

“If I may ask…care to ask what love means to you Rantaro Wilde?” She asked curiously.

“If you wanna know…” I turned to the crowd, crossing my left foot behind my right foot and explained “Love is the engine that drives the train forward, backwards, side to side, round and round love does go.”

“Seriously?” Jack asked. “That sounds pretty stupid.”

Once again, I ignored him as I began continuing my little ‘explanation’.

“I’m not talking about no $20 up in here, back seat of the car, hobo. No no no. I’m talking about good, wholesome, fortified with eight essential vitamins love. That cost anywhere because of inflation!”

“Y-yeah….whatever the hell you’re talking about.” Jack muttered with a scoff.

“Love is meant to be together, show that these two can live together happily ever after. Can I get an Amen?” 

“Amen!” They all yelled out.

“No no no! That’s enough!” ‘Cadance’ begged with a nervous chuckle before glaring at me. “I think we should stop talking about love.”

“Really? There’s not enough to talk about love.” I scoffed before smirking at her. “But let me ask ya something…what’s love to ya?”


“What’s it to me?” She asked incredulous before sweating nervously. “W-well…love is something to enjoy and it’s all about sharing it and showering it over to the ones you love.”

“Aww…!” The crowd gushed at that while I shook my head with an annoyed sigh. Wow, you guys are so smart that you couldn’t tell that she was so lying.

“Then we have more time to talk about it.” I chuckled.

“Rantaro!” I glanced over at Rarity, who held an annoyed look as well. “We have no time for this! Please don’t tell us that you are insisting onto helping Twilight claims of her being evil!”

“And what if I am? All I’m doing is talk about love.” I shrugged with a nonchalant look. “Besides, why would I believe that she’s evil? I don’t side with anyone but myself.”

And that there is the truth.

“And listen to you folks, love isn’t something to just take, it’s about sharing it with your loved ones. Like you marry couple right there…” I pointed over a random couple, one had a blue fur coat with a light blue color while the other looked very similar to one unicorn mage I know. Meh, probably none of my business to figure that crap out. “You two love each other, do ya? You two deserve more with each other, spread that love and keep making it happen.”

The two ponies looked at each other with soft grins before nuzzling each other as I continued “That’s right! Anypony out here who shares their love to those behind ya! Amen!”

“Amen!” Everypony shouted.

“That’s enough!” Well…it would seem that I nearly broke her. She gave me an angry glare, one look at her that can tell ya that she’s nearly broke because she looked psychotic with that glare. “That’s enough! Enough! Enough! Enough! Enough!”

“Jeez, settle down toots.” Jack scoffed. “That look you’re giving us is scaring the undies out of me.”

“Shut it fatso!” Everypony gasped as she glared at us. “I am done with you two! Either you two get out or I’ll make my Shining call the rest of the guards! Just what the heck are you trying to do?! Are you trying to ruin MY wedding?!”

“I’m not…just waiting.” I stated, much to her anger and confusion. 

“Waiting? Waiting…for what exactly?!”

“Beats me…why don’t you find out for yourself?” I grinned cockily at her. “After all…your little charade has gone long enough. You may have fool all of these guys’ eyes but you can fool ours. Mainly because we’re more smarter than these idiots here.”

“Why you…!” ‘Cadance’ held herself back, not wanting to break anymore. “I don’t care! My wedding comes first and that’s all! Shining!”

Shining glanced towards us as I raised a brow, seeing his eyes all green, like he was….Ah crap.

“Guards…get them.” He demanded, causing two random Royal Guards to come out of there and grab me and Jack.

“What the?! What the hell did I do?! I hadn’t say anything!” Jack yelled.

“Well…this is unfortunate.” I sighed. “Oh well…guess you really want to believe her more than us, eh Celeste?”

“Rantaro…Jack…I don’t know what’s making you two act like this, but I’m afraid till you two calm down. I’m afraid that you two have to spend the night at the cells.” Oh…well that’s unfortunate. With that, the guards began dragging us away, I made a small smirk before reaching out for my little personal weapon and…

“GAAAAAAH!” I literally shocked the guard while Jack straight-up punch the other straight in the nose. 

“What is the meaning of this?!” Celeste demanded, raising her tone while the other guests felt extremely worried about this.

“I ain’t gonna leave.” Jack stated with a growl. “This whole damn thing is a farce! I mean, look at the crazy woman!” He pointed at her, who still snarled angrily at us. “She’s clearly evil and yet you idiots haven’t recognized it.”

“I knew it, you two really are working for Twilight.” Applejack growled a bit. “I thought we would drop this ‘evil’ stuff.”

“Really? I would’ve expected you to figure this out since you’re good at finding out who’s lying, but I guess you’re only good with just telling truths.” I scoffed with a shrug, much to her surprise.

“And same goes for ya Skittles!” Jack exclaimed. “I thought you said that you would never leave a friend behind, but ya left Twilight’s back tail behind because you weren’t in the mood and just focused on the wedding!”

“I-I-I…well…” Yep, can’t retort that back, now can you?

“This is ridiculous! Why would the likes of you two care about anything?!” Rarity questioned with a raised brow.

“No, not just them Rarity…” Kaede soon stepped forward, much to the other’s shock. “I’m siding with Twilight and Jamie on this.”

“K-Kaede?!” Rarity gaped in shock upon seeing that she joined our side. “What are you doing?”

“Rarity…I understand that you didn’t believe in Twilight, but you should at least comfort her despite everything you said.” Kaede said in a serious tone. “We were her friends and we were supposed to stick together as a team. Whatever happened to that? You even made Jamie cry and nearly made him commit suicide!”

“He tried to do WHAT?!” Applejack yelled out.

“I think she said-”

“We know what she said, Pinkie!” Rainbow exclaimed angrily, making Pinkie Pie make a sheepish grin.

“She’s right!” Carrie nodded in agreement. “We even saw him tried to fall off the balcony.”

That caused the others to look at each other in shock while the other guest members murmured in shock and confusion. Celeste herself felt shocked that one of her students’ friends tried to kill himself for what has happened to Twilight after they discouraged her for accusing ‘Cadance’ for being evil, which she is since she isn’t the real one.

“That’s right.” I nodded. “You guys call yourselves friends, but instead, you betrayed your own friends. You didn’t have faith in them because all you care is about the wedding than yourselves, claiming it to be a ‘Twilight’ thing and that you claimed that you guys’ friendship were close with one another, but that just shows that you guys are so stupid and that she deserves far better friends who don’t abandoned her. I guess even kind hearted ones and those who stay loyal with them can’t even cheer her up because they don’t care, do they?”

“Of course we do! We-”

“Then why didn’t you all comfort Twilight when she needed it?!” Kaede demanded. “Do you know how she felt?! Even Jamie tried to tell you guys the truth, but you dismissed it which nearly made him try to kill himself!”

“Well…” The girls looked between themselves and felt guilty for what they’ve done. Suddenly, we began hearing some laughing before glancing over at…

“My oh my, you idiots sure know how to entertain me for quite a while.” We all glared at the imposter as she continued “Right now, we have more important matters and that’s focusing back on the wedding. Guards…escort these freaks out to the door, now…”

More guards began appearing and surrounded the rest of us as Carrie hugged Kaede in fear.

“Kaede, I’m scared!”

“It’s okay Carrie, I got ya!”

“Hey! Back off!” Kodi barked. “You guys! Leave my friends alone!”

“Ha, I told you all once before that I won’t allow you ruin my wedding!” ‘Cadance’ screamed before she began crying out. “It’s supposed to be my perfect wedding!”

“Oh goddammit.” I cursed myself, seeing her using that act once more. 

“Now escort them guards and don’t come back!” ‘Candace’ cried out as the guards began swarming us till…

“Stop it right now!” Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie stepped in with determined looks.

“What?! What is the meaning of this?!” ‘Cadance’ demanded.

“We are not gonna let you harm our friends!” Rarity exclaimed. “Everything they told us and how they kept defending Twilight and the others…they showed us something today.”

“They showed us that we should have believed in our friend, Twilight and Jamie more and that we should have been more faithful to them.” Applejack stated.

“Yeah! And we should have been there to comfort them from their sorrows!” Rainbow Dash added.

“We should have been better friends…” Fluttershy nodded in agreement. “But instead…we ended up like jerks to her when we should have been with them.”

“Yeah, and Jamie wouldn’t have killed himself.” Pinkie frowned sadly. “I hope that I can give him the best party to cheer and forgive him later till after this 4-part season finale!”

And once again, ignoring the pink pony, it would seem like our friends are finally understanding the cause on what they’ve done.

“Very well…guards, seize them!” ‘Cadance’ demanded as the guards closed in as we all prepared ourselves to fight them back.

“That’s enough!” We all froze in shock before looking over at Princess Celestia, who held a serious look on her face. “After hearing what they say, I’ve realized that they have a point.”

“Well duh Celeste.” I shrugged. “You did abandoned her as well.”

“Rantaro!” Kaede scolded, which made me shrug.

“Anyway…Rantaro is right. I shouldn’t have l left my own student…I was supposed to be her mentor, guiding her and teaching her the Magic of Friendship…” Celeste looks away with a sad look. “But instead, I left her in sorrow and tears…but now, it’s time for me to repay her back.”

“Are you serious?!” ‘Cadance’ exclaimed in anger. “Auntie Celestia…get on with the wedding NOW!”

“What is wrong with you?” Rainbow Dash asked. “Why are you getting all upset just because some wedding is being interrupted.”

‘Cadance’ began gritting her teeth in anger while Celeste looked at her with a stern look before saying “I do not know why you are acting like this, but right now…something isn’t off with you.”

Really? You’re now suspecting her? What is wrong with these guys? Before any of us could respond…

“STOOOOP!” Well well well…look who decided to show up. We all turned around to see familiar faces slamming the door opened with serious looks.

“Twilight.” I spoke up.

“Twilight!” Kaede, Carrie, Kodi, and Jack yelled out.

“Twilight!” Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy screamed out in joy.

“TWILIIIIIIGHT!” We all gazed over at the pony choir, who seemed to be screaming out since we did.

“…Umm, thanks?” Twilight raised a brow.

“Everypony! Step away from her! She’s evil!” Ren yelled out.

“Ren! You’re alive!” Fluttershy and Kodiak rushed over and hugged him tightly, much to our amusement as the crowd went ‘Ahh’ at them. Ren became surprised to see the two of them hugging him before he hugged them back.

“Hey, I don’t told ya we be back.” Ren smiled while I watched the two with an amused smile. Well…looks like my side of the story is done for. Let’s head back to our heroes side of the story, shall we?



Jamie’s POV

After Ren, Fluttershy, and Kodiak finished up their hugs, the others ran over, passing through the Royal Guards and immediately came over to surround us.

“You guys are okay! I knew that you guys would come back!” Kaede smiled happily.

“Big brother! You’re back and just in time!” Carrie laughed, hugging her brother tightly as he hugged her back. 

“I told you we would be alright.” Mason chuckled.

“Twilight, you’re back!” Rainbow Dash yelled out in joy. 

“Yeah…I am…” Twilight nodded before glancing away, along with me. How could they be happy after what they said to us?

“Twilight, Jamie, we’re so so so so sorry!” Pinkie apologized, hugging the both of us. “We’re sorry if we didn’t believe you!”

“Pinkie!” Twilight wheezed out in surprise.

“What? Y-you’re apologizing?” I asked in surprise.

“Of course. Rantaro and the others convinced us that how wrong we treated ya and how we shouldn’t have abandoned ya like that.” Applejack apologized. 

“It’s alright, we don’t blame you.” Twilight shook her head.

“She’s right…you guys were fooled and we should have expected that we could’ve at least brought some evidence to prove so.” I added. 

“Luna, what are they talking about?” Princess Celestia flew over to Princess Luna, who held a serious and firm look on her face. 

“Sister, you need to listen to us! That niece…is an imposter!” Princess Luna explained, causing everypony to gasped in shock.

“A-An imposter?!” Princess Celestia exclaimed.

“I-it’s the truth!” I nodded. “She’s the one who trapped Nicole, Twilight, and the real Cadance down in the abandoned crystal mines underneath the castle!”

“Ugh, they’re just being ridiculous.” ‘Cadance’ spoken up with a light scoff. “Why must that sniveling purple brat be so possessive of her brother?”

We all stared at her in shock, which she realized on what she said.

“I-I mean…” She began tearing up as she cried out “Why must you two ruin my perfect day?!”

We all glared at her onto seeing that trap wasn’t gonna fool us twice, she spoken up.

“Because it’s not your special day…it’s mine!” We all looked back to see Cadance, and I mean, the real Princess Cadance glaring towards the imposter, much to her shock.

“What?! But how did you get past my bridesmaids?!” ‘Cadance’ demanded.

“Let’s just say, try not to have minions that can be easily distracted.” Mason explained with a smirk before glaring at her. “So tell us, who are you really?”

“Doesn’t matter. My perfect day is gonna come true and I won’t you freaks get in my way!” ‘Cadance’ growled angrily.

“I-I don’t get it…” Applejack shook her head before turning to Rainbow Dash and Rarity before asking “How could they be two of them?”

“That’s because she’s a Changeling.” Nicole explained, much to our surprise. “They’re shape-shifting bug-like ponies who have the ability to steal loving emotions to increase their power judging by how powerful the bond between ponies and other species are, and they take it.”

“I’m surprised that you even know that.” Rantaro pointed out.

“It’s a long story…” Nicole stated, glancing away and adjusting her glasses.

“And not only that!” Cadance stepped forward and turned to the crowd and exclaimed “She isn’t just some normal Changeling! She’s the queen of all Changelings, Queen Chrysalis. She’s the one who trapped me down the mines for several weeks and began disguising as me to fool you all, even my beloved Shining Armor!”

Everypony in the crowd gasped in shock while Princess Celestia and Luna glared at the imposter, who began sweating nervously 

“…Puh-lease! These fools are lying!” ‘Cadance’ scoffed. “I don’t even know anything on who are these Changelings are or a bug queen named Chrysalis!”

…..Silence. We all stared at her, blinking in surprise before she became angry again before asking “W-what? Why are you all looking at me like that?”

“Hmph. It would seem that it came biting ya in the dust, didn’t it?” Rantaro chuckled with a smirk.

“W-what are you talking about?” She demanded.

“I’ll explain.” I said, stepping up with a serious look. “First off, why you say ‘who’ are the Changelings? The Changelings themselves referred to a specimen’s or species’ name, not a person. And how do you know what this Queen Chrysalis figure really is? It’s almost if…you would know her by person or pony.”

She looked at me for a moment while the others stared at me with surprised and shocked looks.

“Damn, when the hell did he grew a spine to stand up to her like that?” Jack whispered to Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie, who only shrugged since they don’t know either.

Soon…she began laughing.

“Ah ha ha ha…ha ha ha ha…HA HA HA HA HA HA!”

“Hey, what’s so funny?” Ren asked.

“Yeah, all that Jamie did was pointing out your mistakes.” Kodiak added with a raised brow.

“I gotta hand it to you humans, you’re all pretty good and unique.” ‘Cadance’ laughed mockingly. “I guess what he told me was true. It would seem that I shouldn’t have underestimated you lot since we first met.”

“He? He who?” Ren asked.

“It doesn’t matter who I mentioned, what matters is…what you’re about to face.” H-huh? We all looked to see a ring of green fire circling around her as her body began to alter and change.

Soon, the green inferno died down and revealed herself in the flesh as we all widened our eyes and jaw-dropped on her real identity.

“Holy…” Jack muttered in shock.

“Crap-baskets…” Ren whispered.

“W-w-what is she?” Carrie asked, hugging onto her older brother as he clenched his fists and gritted his teeth in anger.

“Oh my…they weren’t kidding on saying that she looked like a bug…” Kaede’s face turned pale upon seeing her.

“Huh…talk about ugly…” Rantaro muttered, tilting his hat down a bit while Nicole widened her eyes a bit in surprise. 

“So…this is your true form…”

We all gazed at her true appearance, revealing to be a bug-like pony but had longer legs like a Daddy Long’s Leg Spider. She had a twisted unicorn horn, a pair of tattered insectoid wings, and stands as tall as Princess Celestia. In addition, she has a sharp pair of fangs and dark green eyes with elongated oval pupils. She has a teal mane and tail, blue-green chitinous plating over her midsection, and she wears a small, black crown tipped with blue orbs. Her legs, mane, and tail are full of holes, and her limbs and torso are very slender.

“Right you are, young human. And as queen of the changelings, it is up to me to find food for my subjects. Equestria has more love than any place I've ever encountered. My fellow changelings will be able to devour so much of it that we will gain more power than we have ever dreamed of!” 

Everypony let out a terrified scream while I widened my eyes, my face turning pale and sweating nervously. All of my bravado vanishing in a moment and returning to my coward-like personality.

So this is Queen Chrysalis…this insane bug-like pony that is said to be queen of all Changelings and the one who locked Twilight, Nicole, and the real Princess Cadance down in the abandoned Crystal Mines is her? The one…who tried to ruin our friendship…the one…who we are about to face…

To Be Continued
> Chapter 56 - A Canterlot Wedding Disaster Part 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Previously on My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria

W-w-w-w-w--w-w-w-w-what?!

Where am I?

Twilight...why are you acting so depressed?

Plans? What plans? And where in Equestria are we?

I have no sister!

Shut up! Just shut the hell up for once in your damn life!

There is no way that I would abandoned my friends!

I mean that Jamie might be in danger and if I have a feeling that we need to hurry.

I...have no idea that you were jealous of me.

Well, didn't know you looked up to me as some admirer!

I-I want to help and I want to prove myself that I am reliable in your eyes! I want to prove that I'm not weak!

NOW! LET'S SEE HOW YOU FEEL TO BE LEFT IN THE DARKNESS!

You're right! We need to hurry before it's over!

I'm so sorry...I was a major jerk.

"H-hey...it's okay. I'm the one who should be apologizing for what I said back there. I was the major jerk.

Your majesty, I object! 

Damn, when the hell did he grew a spine to stand up to her like that?

So...this is your true form...




My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria

No way…this is Queen Chrysalis. This insane bug queen who’s responsible for…everything. Making that threat, trapping Twilight, Nicole, and Cadance into those abandoned crystal mines, and worse of all…caused our friendship to be destroyed…I can’t help but feel intimidated by her appearance. All of that confidence I had went away through my body…now I was back to being the coward I once was.

“Holy cow! What the heck?!” Ren exclaimed in shock. “No offence, but…is that your true form? Well…I guess final bosses do look terrifying in a way.”

“Why thank you, young Ren Loodan.” Queen Chrysalis laughed mockingly.

“What?” Ren asked in confusion.

“You know Ren’s name?” Kodiak asked as well.

“Well of course. I’ve heard many tales from each and every one of you humans from an old colleague of mine, as well as hearing about you all from the many news of Equestria. I didn’t pay any mind you fools for a while because you all were pretty much useless to even combat me and my army.” She explained with a sly smile. “But now doesn’t matter, what matters is that my plans is nearly complete! Soon, all of my Changelings will steal as many love as much as they want here in Canterlot, and then we’ll spread out everywhere in Equestria and I shall be ruler of this land!”

“Y-you’re frigging insane!” Jack threatened, clenching his fists in anger. “You’re just making crap up!”

“Oh, no I’m not.” She shook her head. “This will truly to be the day we Changelings will take over everything under MY rule!”

“You monster…!” Mason growled. “You think we’re gonna let you get away with this?!”

“Big brother’s right! Why are you doing this?!” Carrie demanded, feeling a bit scared at the sight of Queen Chrysalis.

“Why?” Queen Chrysalis asked with a raised brow before letting out a loud laughter. “It’s to steal love! It’s the way how we Changelings survive! Besides, why would a bunch of humans like you care about ponies?”

“What? What are you talking about?” Kaede asked. “Jeez, you really don’t make any sense.”

“For sure.” Rantaro shrugged before crossing his arms. “But stealing love? Is that what you’re after? That sounds pretty dull to be a motive. Now power…that I understand.”

“To be fair, it would seem that love might be a source of energy for them.” Nicole guessed before adjusting her glasses. “Though, to do all of this just to steal love from all of us. I guess you would say that is pretty dull.”

“Well it doesn’t matter!” Cadance stepped up with a serious look on her face. “You and your Changelings will never get the chance! Shining Armor’s protection spell will keep them from ever reaching us!”

However, Queen Chrysalis only laughed at that as she replied “Oh, I doubt that. Isn’t that right, dear?”

“Mm-hmm.” Shining nodded with a creepy grin on his face.

“W-what? Why is Shining…acting like that?” Kaede asked. “He was acting fine a little while ago…”

“Wait…look.” Nicole pointed over towards Shining Armor’s eyes as we gazed at them before widening our eyes, mouth jaw-dropping, and paled expressions…well except Nicole because she held a calm look with narrowed eyes. “I see…you’ve hypnotized him.”

“What?!” Cadance gasped before glaring angrily at the Changeling queen. “You monster!”

“Ah, ah, ah.” Queen Chrysalis shook her head with an arrogant smirk on her face. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you. I could kill him as much as I want.”

Cadance backed off before gave off an angry glare towards her.

“So why didn’t you?” Ren asked. “It’s like you’re trying to use him as a hostage or something.”

“Indeed I am.” Queen Chrysalis nodded. “Ever since I took Cadance’s place, I’ve been feeding off Shining Armor’s love for her. Every moment he grows weaker and so does his spell. Even now, my minions are chipping away at it.”

“What?” Mason questioned before hearing a gasp from his sister as she looked outside at the force field, seeing some cracks on them. 

“She’s right! Look!” Carrie pointed out on the window as we all gazed over outside, and much to our surprise, we saw, probably, a thousand bug-like ponies which I soon realized where like Queen Chrysalis, a Changeling, were kicking and charging towards the shield, breaking it piece by piece.

“Well…that isn’t good.” Rantaro said bluntly.

“Quite.” Nicole nodded in agreement, which gave some of us baffled looks towards them, but Jack growled angrily and exclaimed “You frigging think this is some dumb joke, you idiots?!”

“Ha ha ha ha!” We turned back to Queen Chrysalis, who was cackling in glee. “He may not be my husband, but he is under my total control now.”

“You monster!” Kaede yelled out. “Why are you doing this?!”

“I told you, to steal as much love from Equestria. I’m doing what’s right for my precious babies.”

“Precious…babies?” Ren asked in confusion.

“Well of course, I am their mother.” Wait what?! S-she’s joking, right? You mean that every last of them have the same mother and that’s her?!

“Seriously?!” Kodiak gagged at that. “That’s really disgusting. I’m sure to feel disgusted by that.”

“Obviously.” Mason coughed a bit before glaring at her, attempting to take out his bamboo pole. “But as of right now, we can’t allow you to get away this act of crimes you’ve committed.”

“Yeah!” Ren nodded with a determined look. “We’re gonna stop you Queen Chrysalis and we’re gonna save Shining Armor and the rest of Canterlot!”

“Oh, I’m sorry to say that you can’t.” She cackled, stroking underneath Shining Armor’s chin. “I’m sorry to say that Shining Armor is unable to perform his duties as captain of the Royal Guard.”

“Not my Shining Armor!” Cadance begged. 

“Soon, my changeling army will break through. First, we take Canterlot. And then, all of Equestria!”

“Y-you’re so mean!” Carrie cried out, holding onto Rarity in fear as she held her close to her as Mason, Ren, and Jack stepped up to face her off as Ren held his Hacking Gun close, Mason with his bamboo pole, and Jack with his fists. The rest of us stayed back and watched them attempt to fight off Queen Chrysalis. There’s gotta be some way I can do to help everyone.

“No.” Huh? We all looked over to see Princess Celestia with a bold look on her face. “You won’t. You may have have made it impossible for Shining Armor to perform his spell, but now that you have so foolishly revealed your true self, I can protect my subjects from you!”

“C-Celeste?!” Ren gasped. 

“Indeed.” Princess Luna glared at the Changeling Queen. “We shall not thou let you destroy our kingdom, you rotten fool!”

“Is that so?” Queen Chrysalis scoffed. “I have more power than you can ever imagine. There is no way you fools can ever have the hopes of defeating me.”

Princess Celestia and Luna didn’t reply anything back as the former charged towards the Changeling Queen, their horns clashing against each other like a sword duel as the two struggled to fight back with each other. The Sun Princess managed to push the Changeling Queen back, causing her to grunt before firing a powerful green fiery magic beam towards her, but the princess retaliated back with another magic beam of her own as the two attacks collided with each other.

“Alright! Go Princess Celestia!” Kaede cheered. 

“Hell yeah! Kick that buggy queen’s butt!” Jack shouted.

“Yeah! Go Princess!” Carrie jumped for joy as we watched over this with intense looks on our faces. Come on, you can do this Princess Celestia…

Suddenly, Princess Luna came over and was ready to help her sister till Princess Celestia spoken “No Luna! Stay back! You could get hurt!”

“Trust me on this, Tia! I can help!”  Princess Luna offered.

“No…get…back…Luna…!” H-huh? Why is she hesitating? W-wait…the beam! It’s fading! Queen Chrysalis’s beam seemed to get more stronger and it straight towards Princess Celestia, who widened her eyes in shock and….

BOOOM!


We all stared in horror and shock, but no one was more shock than me and Twilight as our expressions turned pale as we watched Princess Celestia’s crown fall to the ground…she was knocked out. Impossible! The princess of Equestria…was defeated! Even her horn had worn out as a black smudge covered it as she fell to the ground unconsciously.

“Princess!” Carrie shouted as the rest of us ran after her as we all examined Princess Celestia.

“Tia!” Princess Luna called in horror as she picked up her sister with a worried look. “Tia! Speak to me…!”

“U-ugh…Augh…!” Princess Celestia coughed as she opened her right eye and muttered “L-Luna…”

“Oh crap!” Jack exclaimed in shock. “What the hell just happened?!”

“Yeah, I thought Celeste got in the bag?” Ren asked, looking at Princess Celestia in shock. “I don’t get it! Why did she ended up like that?!”

“Ah! Shining Armor’s love for you is even stronger than I thought!” We all looked over to see Queen Chrysalis smirking evilly and smugly. “Consuming it has made me even more powerful than Celestia!”

“What?!” Ren exclaimed.

“More powerful…than even the princess herself?!” Kodi gasped. “Is that even possible?!”

“Wow, did not see that coming.” Rantaro remarked, holding his hat on his head. 

“It would seem that we aren’t that strong enough to fight off her…” Nicole stated with her eyes furrowed at Queen Chrysalis. “…For now, that is.”

“Huh? What do you mean?” Kaede asked in confusion.

“The Elements of Harmony…” Huh? We looked down to see Princess Celestia looking over at us all. “You must get to them…and use their power…to defeat the queen.”

“W-what?” I asked in surprise. “C-Can we really do that?”

“Well I’ve seen Twilight and the other girls pulling that off like twice in a row.” Ren stated with a confident smile on his face. “So I know that they can do it!”

“Thanks for the encouragement, Ren.” Twilight nodded.

“B-but..where are they?” Fluttershy asked in confusion.

“They must be at the tower.” Mason suggested. “From the last time, she placed them in a chest that was in a tower surrounded by a protective barrier.”

“Oh that’s right!” Kaede nodded with a smile while some of us stood there in confusion.

“Huh? What now?” Jack asked irritably. “How about you frigging tell us about this tower? What the hell are you guys talking about?”

“No time fatty!” Rainbow replied with a serious look on her face. “Right now! We gotta head over!”

“Don’t worry, we’ll explain along the way!” Ren grinned.

“O-Okay!” I nodded before looking back to see Queen Chrysalis laughing evilly while Princess Luna glared angrily at the Changeling Queen. “P-Princess Luna?”

“You all go on without me.” Princess Luna said, her tone filled with anger. 

“Princess Luna?” Carrie called in worried.

“Do not worried about us, young Carrie.” Princess Luna assured with a soft smile. “Go and retrieve the Elements of Harmony before it is too late!”

“Princess Luna!” Carrie called in worried.

“No…” Mason stood over with a serious look as he glared at Queen Chrysalis. “I shall stay and keep her protected.”

“Sir Mason…” Princess Luna muttered in surprise.

“I cannot allow this vermin of a queen get away harming any of my friends. I shall protect everyone here.” Mason stated.

“Mason…” I muttered. “Mason…are you sure?”

“Trust me, I shall be alright.”

“Big brother!” Carrie gasped in shock. 

“Don’t worry Carrie, we shall be alright.” Mason nodded. 

“Mason, don’t!” Rarity exclaimed. “What if something terrible happens to you!”

“Rarity…” Mason sighed.

“I can’t allow you to just leave you this…this disgusting vermin of a queen!” Queen Chrysalis narrowed her eyes at us. “If something were to happen to you and Princess Luna, then I…I…!”

“Rarity, it is alright.” Mason assured with a soft grin before crossing his arms and said “I assure you everything will be alright. Even if I fallen from her, I know you guys can end all of this!”

“M-Mason…!” Rarity cried out, causing some of us to feel a bit tearful. 

“Big brother! Wait!” Carrie called out but she was held back by Kaede while Rainbow Dash and Jack held back Rarity as Mason drew his bamboo pole as he and Princess Luna prepared to fight off Queen Chrysalis.

“Hmph! We shall see who triumphs in the end.” Queen Chrysalis chuckled. “Let us see the amazing power you possess, human.”

“Very well.” Mason scoffed before smirking at Princess Luna. “Please forgive me if I am assisting you.”

“It is quite alright, sir Mason Hunter.” Princess Luna assured. “For now…we shall face off this vermin who dared hurt thou sister!”

Mason nodded before glaring at Queen Chrysalis while the rest of us looked at each other in worried.

“Oh, I’m so worried for Mason and Princess Luna.” Fluttershy muttered.

“Well…we gotta trust in them.” Ren assured with a smile. “I know Mason and Princess Luna are strong, so they can be sure to buy us some time.”

“You are right.” Rarity nodded before smiling softly towards Mason. “After all…it would be a shame if we don’t believe in his or Princess Luna’s skills.”

“Yeah, I’ll believe in my big brother!” Carrie nodded.

“Good because we’re running out of time here.” Rantaro pointed out. “For now, let’s get these Elements of whatever and go.”

“Elements of Harmony, Rantaro.” Twilight corrected.

“Don’t care, let’s go.” Rantaro shrugged before he ran out of the door.

“We should be hurry before the barrier gets destroyed. Let’s go.” Nicole said, which we all nodded before heading out. As we ran through the halls while the rest of the guests flee in terror, I ran next to Ren and asked “A-are you sure Mason and Princess Luna can handle it? Not that I’m discouraging them.”

“Don’t worry! They can do it!” Ren nodded. “Whether if they beat her or not, they’ll buy us enough time to get our trump cards!”

“Trump cards?” Kodi asked, listening in on our conversations. 

“I think he means the Elements of Harmony.” I guessed before remembering about it. “And…are we really gonna get the Elements of Harmony? Will it be enough to beat Queen Chrysalis?”

“Like I said, don’t worry Jamie.” Ren assured with a soft smile. “You gotta believe in them, and if you believe in them, then we know for sure that we can win this and save Canterlot and possibly all of Equestria!”

“Believe…” I muttered as we immediately headed straight out of the castle and onto the streets of Canterlot. Believe….what does it mean to ‘believe’? Does he believe in people and ponies despite not knowing so far. I-I mean, I know Mason for quite a while and I trust him…but we trust in others that we haven’t establish much of a bond? Does he…believe in friendship?

CRACK!

“H-huh? What was that?” Kaede asked as we all stopped in our tracks.

“Ah! Look!” Pinkie pointed her hoof towards the force field as we all watched the Changeling army breaking through the force field, breaking it like glass as they swarmed around town. With no force field, the Changeling Army were attacking innocent civilians, shooting out some strange green goo at them and causing them to be stuck in it.

“Whoa….” Ren and Kodi muttered in shock. 

“What are they doing?” Jack demanded. “What the hell is this?!”

“It’s some sort of goo that traps its victims…” Nicole deduced before saying “We should hurry before we get captured by them.”

“Don’t need to tell me that!” Rantaro shouted, pulling her away before a giant blast shot towards where she once stood. Nicole was slightly surprised by that before she looked over at the destruction as the rest of us widened our eyes in shock.

“W-what was that?” Fluttershy asked, hiding behind Ren. Kodi walked over and sniffed it, getting some goo on his nose before shaking his head, getting rid of it.

“Ugh…whatever it is, it smells weird and it’s sticky.” Kodi replied in disgust.

“Amazing…” I spoken, taking out my notebook and copying down some notes. “It’s like this is kind of the same stuff used for silk. You know, like a caterpillar covering itself in a cocoon.”

“That is certainly a possibility.” Nicole said, making a small smirk. 

“Umm…hello?” Twilight called for us. “Elements of Harmony?”

“Ah!” I froze in shock upon remembering that. “S-sorry! I didn’t mean to!”

“It’s okay! Right now, let’s hurry!” Twilight said with a serious look on her face. 

“Good because we got some trouble up ahead.” Rantaro pointed to the skies, seeing more green sludge bombs heading our way.

“Incoming!” Ren shouted as we all began running through the streets, trying our best to avoid all of the blasts. While running, Ren grabbed out his Hacking Gun and shouted “Eat this!”

Ren shot multiple ‘Burn’ bullets at the blasts, causing them to overheat and explode on our sights as we continued to head straight threw the city of Canterlot as Ren kept helping us along the way by blasting away those green sludge blasts.

“Are we almost there?!” I asked, almost running in breath but kept my stance. 

“Yeah, it should be around here!” Ren assured. “I think we’re almost there!”

“You think?!” Jack exclaimed.

“Umm, guys! Look out!” Applejack shouted as she pushed them out of the way before a green goo sludge hit them. Ren and Jack looks over at it in shock before looking over to see thousands of Changelings in our way.

“Oh, you bastards!” Jack cursed, cracking his knuckles.

“Oh man, we’re surrounded!” Kodiak shouted.

“What do we do?” Carrie asked, holding onto Kaede as she held her too. 

“I say bring it on!” Rainbow exclaimed, rubbing her hooves together like she was ready to bawl a fist at them. Suddenly, the Changelings were surrounded in green flames, transforming straightly out of Rainbow Dash’s appearance. She widened her eyes in shock as she exclaimed “W-w-what the?! How did they?!”

“They’re Changelings, remember?” Twilight reminded her, which caused some of them to transform into Twilight. 

“They’re Changelings, remember?” The Twilight clones spoken, trying to provoke her.

“Wow, they’re good.” Kodi commented.

“….” Nicole stared at them for a while before bluntly saying “Hmm, nope. I don’t see the difference between them.”

That caused the Changelings to stare at Nicole in shock before smirking and some of them transforming into Nicole, much to our shock.

“What the hell?!” Jack exclaimed. “So they can transform into us as well?!”

“Well they do have the ability to shape-shift into anything…” I pointed out. “But I never imagined that they could transform into any of us.”

“…Hmm…I still don’t see the difference.” Nicole said bluntly, causing most of the Changelings to nearly fall down, along with us.

“Is now the time to criticizing on how they look when they transformed into us?!” Kaede exclaimed.

W-well…Kaede does have a point. Though Nicole is hardly affected by this. Well…almost everything.

“HISSSSS!” The Changelings recovered from the shock and started to snarl and hiss at us as they slowly began to come towards us.

“Guys, we got no choice!” Ren exclaimed with a serious look, raising his Hacking Gun. “We have to fight our way straight out of these guys!”

“Hell yeah!” Jack grinned, cracking his knuckles.

“Well this is troublesome…” Rantaro sighed before taking out a tazer gun out his pockets with a cocky grin. “Hmph, oh well…things is gonna get exciting.”

“U-umm…I-I help out too.” I nodded before standing between Ren and Jack, who grinned at me before glaring back at the Changelings. 

“Okay!” Rainbow clapped her hooves together with a smirk on her face. “Looks like we’re gonna have to do this the hard way!”

“Yeah!” Ren nodded with a smirk.

“We can do this!” Pinkie added before they noticed several other changelings transforming into him with evil smiles on their faces. Pinkie glared at them and said “So, you might know everything what I’m going to do, but that’s not gonna happen to help you, since I know everything you’re going to do! Strange, isn’t it?”

“Wait what?” Ren asked in surprise. “How did you know THAT line?”

“What line?” Pinkie asked with a dumbfound look, causing Ren to sweat-dropped a little and replied “Uhhh…never mind.”

“Whatever! Let’s take them down!” Jack grinned toothily, glaring down at the imposters before they charged towards us. 

“Don’t let them distract you!” Twilight announced as we positioned ourselves in defense.

“Twilight’s right.” I nodded in agreement. “We have to get to the Elements of Harmony. Like Ren said, they’re our only hope.”

“Mm-hmm!” Ren nodded before raising his Hacking Gun. “Let’s do this!”

O-okay…this shouldn’t be a challenge. I mean, there’s like fourteen of us and…a thousands of them….Oh man, we really are gonna die. N-no! What am I saying? I have to stay confident! I come this far and I can’t let them get away with this! I was brave enough to venture down the abandoned crystal mines and was able to save Princess Cadance, Twilight, and Nicole along with fighting off those weird shadow monsters…So the best way to do is to believe in the others…and myself!

With that, we all engaged ourselves into battle as the Changelings charged towards us.

Twilight fired multiple magic beams at them, shocking them and reverting them back to their original selves. Kaede, Carrie, and Fluttershy stayed together in a small group before noticing their fake imposters approaching them. Before I could anything, Ren came out and shot multipled ‘Paralyze’ bullets, shocking them and making them fall unconscious.

“You girls alright?” Ren asked in worried.

“We’re alright Ren.” Fluttershy thanked with a soft smile. “Thank you so much.”

“Yeah, thanks.” Kaede chuckled.

“Thank you Ren!” Carrie giggled with a smile, causing Ren to smile back at her before he noticed several more clones of him approaching him, causing him to glare at them before raising his Hacking Gun and shoot multiple bullets of ‘Break’ at them.

Kodiak was busy fighting off his own clones. Well actually, he looked like he was interacting with them.

“So cool…you look just like me.” Kodi said in awe.

“Nuh-uh! You look just like me!” His fake retorted till Kodiak shook his head and said “No! You are!”

“No you are!”

“No you are!”

…..It’s best if I skipped that. Anyway, Jack and Rainbow Dash tackled and punched many of their imposters with Jack body slamming some of Rainbow Dash’s clones, much to the imposter’s pain. Rainbow Dash kicked some of the Jack imposters in the butt with an apple-buck, knocking them straight into walls while I was with Twilight as she was trying to protect us with many magic beams around them. Applejack apple-bucked them into next week, Rarity used many of the stuff she brought over to fight off her clones, and Pinkie Pie using her party cannon, which confuses me on how she even brought that over here to Equestria, but it’s best not to question that. I’m trying not to keep asking her that many questions…

All I did was staying around near Twilight with a scared look. What can I do? I don’t know how can I help? Maybe I should stay with Fluttershy, Kaede, and Carrie who we were also trying to protect from those Changeling imposters! I…don’t know what I can do! I have no weapon so I can’t do anything.

That power….

Huh? What the?

That power…the power to fight back the darkness and despair…you are…

W-who is saying that? What are they even trying to say?

That power…you are one of the ones…who can unlock…

“Jamie! Watch out!” Huh?! I looked over to my right to get pushed onto the ground as I looked up to see an imposter of me, glaring evilly at me and hissed, much to my shock.

“Jamie!” Twilight shouted as she prepared to fire a beam at my imposter as he was prepared to throw a punch at me. However, I tried to grab something nearby till I found a rock and smashed it on his head, forcing him to fall on his back as I immediately got back up with a feared look on my face as he got up and glared at me, getting a little bump on him as his head.

His hissed angrily, making the others to transform into me as they pounced towards me.

“Jamie, watch out!” Twilight and Ren got in front of me as they prepared to help me out as I covered my head with a feared look till I noticed another one of my fakes jumped and was ready to attack me.

“AHHHH!” I screamed as I bent down in fear till….

…..

….

Nothing happened. Confused, I gotten up and looked to see the Changeling in front of me was unconscious, much to my surprise.

“Jamie?” I turned over to Ren and Twilight, who stared at me in surprise. 

“H-huh? Did you…guys save me?” I asked in confusion till Ren shook his head and replied “We…don’t know. We just saw a barrier protecting you from that Changeling.”

“Huh? Then…Twilight, did you-” Unfortunately, Twilight shook her head and replied “No, I was too busy focusing on protecting you and fighting off some of the Changelings that transformed into you that I didn’t have enough time to create a barrier.”

“W-what?” I asked in confusion before looking back at the unconscious Changeling. “S-so then…who?”

“Guys! Look out!” We looked back at Kaede as she fearfully pointed towards to see another wave of Changelings heading our way.

“Dammit! There’s no end to these guys!” Jack exclaimed angrily. “Now frigging what?!”

“We obviously can’t keep fighting like this.” Rantaro answered as an unconscious Changeling started to wake up till Rantaro shocked it again with his Taser gun. The Changeling was immediately shocked to death before falling unconscious again. “We need to move!”

“No way! We can take them!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, clapping her hooves.

“No, he’s right.” I answered, shocking and confusing Rainbow Dash. “We need to move because at this rate, we’ll be worn out in order to fight back.”

“Jamie has a point.” Ren nodded. “I mean, we can’t keep on fighting on like this. I’m almost out of battery in this thing.”

“And I’m getting too tired out to even fight back.” Rarity added. “We need to hurry over to get the Elements of Harmony!”

Rainbow Dash looked at us before back at the next wave of Changelings before sighing “Oh alright fine! You all win!”

“Hmph! I could’ve still stayed around and fight off these creeps…” Jack grumbled. “Oh well…let’s head over to these Elements of Harmony or whatever they are.”

“Good choice.” Nicole nodded. “For right now, there’s too many in the area.”

“Yeah yeah yeah, we get it!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “Let’s just get out of here and find the Elements of Harmony!”

With that, we began heading after to another street to avoid that wave at Changelings as we began going another way in order to avoid the Changelings. 

“Come on! We need to keep going partners!” Applejack yelled out.

“But where are we?” Carrie asked, looking around the area while we ran. Nearly, the entire city was covered in those green slime things. 

“We just need to keep on going!” Ren exclaimed. “I know it’s around here somewhere…”

“Y-yeah…well you guys been there before so it would make sense…” I sighed as we continued running past some Changelings attacking some people while they fought back against them. Are we really gonna make it? 

Go to where your heart tells you…

Huh? That voice again…who is saying that? And…go to where my heart tells me? But…h-how? I-I’m so useless…No, I can’t keep thinking these kind of thoughts……

I soon stopped at my tracks before looking over to my right, seeing an empty street over there. The others soon took noticed that I didn’t kept coming with them as they stopped with Twilight looking at me with a concern look and asked “Jamie, what’s wrong?”

“I…think we need to go this way.” The others grew confused as I continued “W-well…I think it might be this way.”

“You think?” Rantaro asked with a deadpan look. “Look kid, if we keep going into circles, we’ll end up getting lost.”

Nicole stared at me for a while before saying “Let’s go…”

“Huh?” Nicole began walking off and as she walked past me, she nodded and said “I trust you…you might know something, do you?”

I stared at her in confusion before nodding meekly as we immediately began heading out towards the empty street, which the others soon followed after us. We kept running through the street and soon to another, and then another. Five minutes later…we arrived in front of a tower. 

“It’s the tower!” Ren exclaimed in joy. “This is where we last saw the Elements of Harmony!”

“Yeah! Nice going Jamie!” Kaede thanked, causing me to blush a bit.

“I-It was no problem…” I shook my head as Twilight walked over to me with a smile and said “Amazing Jamie! That was great!”

I blushed in embarrassment and smiled meekly at her, happy to hear her approval of that. Suddenly, Rantaro walked over to me and asked “Okay, so how did you know it was here?”

“Huh?” I asked in confusion.

“You somehow knew this place was here. But I thought only Ren, Mason, Kaede, Carrie, Kodiak, and those mares knew it was here.” Rantaro pointed out, tapping his foot. “How in the world did you know that it was right here?”

“O-oh…umm…” I looked away in fear before answering “I-I really don’t know…I just knew….”

“You…just knew?” Nicole asked curiously. “That seems really weird.”

“I-I just knew…that’s all.” I answered. “I-I’m sorry if it’s not good enough.”

“Just knew?” Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion. “But Jamie’s never been around here, right?”

“I don’t know…” Ren shook his head before shrugging “But I guess maybe he just knew, that’s all. I don’t think Jamie has any ill intents on us to do it.”

“You’re right.” Twilight nodded. “Right now, we need to keep focusing on getting those Elements of Harmony!”

“Yeah!” Ren nodded in agreement as we slowly began to walk over to the doors. “Come on! Those Elements are just over by the-”

But at that moment we opened the doors, all of our hopes turned into a quick void of despair as we didn’t see the Elements of Harmony, but instead a whole army of Changelings. I widened my eyes in shock as I squeaked “W-what?”

“Oh…crap-baskets...” Ren muttered.

“You cannot be serious.” Jack said in a deadpanned look.

“Oh no…this is troubling.” Nicole sighed. The others stared at them in shock as the Changeling army stared at us with hisses and evil smiles before pouncing over all of us.

“AHHHH!” Kaede and Carrie screamed as I watched in horror and let out a shriek. As I continued to shriek, it happened again the moment everything turned black.

Don’t be afraid…don’t run away…you must overcome the fears of despair because you are one of the ones who….save me…



Fifteen Minutes Earlier
Mason’s POV

They were gone now. After Ren and the others took both Rarity and Carrie out of here with them, I stood there next to Princess Luna as we both were ready to fight off Queen Chrysalis as she make an arrogant smile at us.

“So…you dare fight against me? The Queen of all Changelings?” Queen Chrysalis asked rhetorically before scoffing “You two are already dumber than I thought. For a human, I guess you really are stupid.”

“Don’t underestimate someone like me.” I said with a solemn look on my face. “You have really gone on too far. Manipulating my friends, even the princess, and worse of all, hypnotized Shining and made him your slave, and trapped Princess Cadance into that abandoned crystal mines. How far do you go to make these crimes?”

“Please, I would do anything to get what I want.” Queen Chrysalis stated with a scoff before making a sly arrogant smirk towards me and Princess Luna. “Besides, you two will join in on Celestia’s fate.”

I narrowed my eyes before noticing the barrier around the city was starting to break and soon enough, it broken into millions of shards as her army of Changelings charge towards the city.

“No!” Cadance shouted in shock. “They already breached through the city! Twilight! Everyone!”

“Carrie…Rarity…my friends…” I gritted my teeth before glaring at Queen Chrysalis,  who was mockingly laughing at me as she said “Ooh, don’t feel bad Hunter. I’m sure they’re already getting captured by my Changelings and taking their love away.”

“You monster!” Princess Luna growled. “Would you let your minions do that?! Even to innocent people and ponies like a young girl?!”

“So what?” What…? What the hell did she just say to us? “It doesn’t matter who we steal love from. We only do this to survive ever since Equestria refused to let us live peacefully. Besides, I know what’s best for everyone, so in a way, think of it as give and take.”

“Give and take?!” I exclaimed. “You bastard! You’re going to kill everyone if you do that, even my friends and sister?!”

“Oh? You wished to protect your little sister?” Queen Chrysalis chuckled. “Ooh, I can smell how strong your bond with your sister is. It would be a wonder on how strong her bond with you will be.”

“What?” I asked, my anger slowly boiling in as I clutched onto my pole tightly. “What…did you just say?”

“Oh? Are you curious about us? Us Changelings can be able to sense how strong a loving bond can be. Why else did we come here as I send Cadance to the underground mines while I took her place. While I stood in her place, I slowly began absorbing the life out of Shining Armor’s love, and slowly making him under my control.” 

She walked over to Shining Armor, who kept smiling creepily with his eyes still green as it showed that he was still in her grasp. He slowly nodded as she stroked him underneath the chin, much to our disgust and Cadance’s anger.

“You monster! You dare touch a mane on my Shining-”

“Or what Princess?” Queen Chrysalis scoffed with an smug look. “You gonna try and save him? By now, your energy is too drained up after spending some time in those crystal mines.”

“You shall pay for everything!” Princess Luna growled.

“Very well…I have no time to discuss much about you incompetent specimen.” Queen Chrysalis grinned evilly. “As of right now, we shall proceed to see how far we can fight. But do you really think you can take me on? I am the Queen of the Changelings, I am the most powerful being now in all of Equestria!”

“Really? All I’m hearing is just arrogant comments coming out of that vulgar mouth of yours.” I said bluntly, causing her to flinch before glaring coldly at me. Princess Luna and Cadance couldn’t help but snicker at how right that was. “If you so claim to be strong, then why not show me your power?”

I got into a battle position with a dark glare along with Princess Luna. Queen Chrysalis stared at us for a while before licking her lips as she said “Once I am through with you, I shall steal as much as much as I want from the both of you.”

“We shall see about that, you vermin.” Queen Chrysalis grinned before firing a green fiery beam at us. Princess Luna got in front of me and protected us in a small light blue barrier. She keeps holding back as I immediately jumped over her and slammed my pole at the bug queen’s face, canceling out her attack as she hissed at me before she began using her horn as a sword, causing the both of us to fight off. I held my ground, acting my pole as a sword as we kept dueling each other. 

“Yeah! Get him Auntie Luna and Mason!” Princess Cadance cheered, much to Chrysalis’s irritation.

“You shut your trap, princess!” Chrysalis exclaimed before I round-housed her away, just five feet away from me. Before long, Princess Luna fired a spell straight at her before yelling “This is for Tia, you vermin!”

As Queen Chrysalis stared at the beam in horror, something came in front of her and took the shot, falling down on the ground unconsciously. We immediately looked over and saw a small black creature, sleeping on the ground. 

“W-what?!” Princess Luna exclaimed in shock.

“Oh yes, I must thank one of my own babies for saving their mother.” Chrysalis chuckled. “Hmph! Isn’t that wonderful? I guess even love can be used as sacrifices.”

“You monster!” I exclaimed. “You just let one of your minions, even your own children, take the hit and that’s what you say?!”

“Hmph! You would never understand that!” As Chrysalis screamed, she fired multiple fiery blasts towards me, causing me to block by covering my face with my arms while enduring the pain. As it was over, I unfolded my arms, seeing the sleeves of my sweater burned up to a crisp as I looked over at Queen Chrysalis, but she wasn’t alone as five more Changelings flew down with her, and worse of all…

“AHH! Let go of me!” Ah?! I looked over to see Cadance getting stuck in some green goo slime attached to her legs. I growled a bit before yelling “What the hell are you doing to her?!”

“Unhand thy niece, you despicable dispute of a vermin!” Princess Luna demanded. “You’ll pay for this!”

“Oh relax, we’ll be keeping her alive…for now till after our royal dinner.” Queen Chrysalis licked her lips, forming an evil grin as I glared at her angrily. 

“To treat a lady such as her like this, even on her wedding day. You really are ignorant, aren’t you? And you call yourself a queen? At least the princesses know a thing or two about chivalry and how to treat their ponies well unlike you.” I stated, angering Chrysalis.

“That I agree.” Princess Luna nodded before glaring at the bug queen, who was starting to get more and more angry.

“That’s it! I have had enough of your insolence!” Queen Chrysalis fired multiple beams at us, causing us to keep dodging them as I began twisting my pole around, blocking away the attacks. I soon came charging in as her minions came charging towards me. I sidestepped before hitting them each in the chest, causing them to fall on the ground, wincing in pain. “W-what?!” Chrysalis exclaimed in shock.

“Don’t worry, they’re alright.” I assured. “I just used a special punching acupuncture technique that’ll make them lay like that for a long while.”

“Oh, so you really are full of tricks, eh?” Queen Chrysalis smirked evilly. “I wished you could’ve joined us and take over Equestria. I mean, these simpletons don’t even deserves to have happy lives, not sharing their love with me.”

“Maybe if you just not came up with such a stupid plan like this. You and your kind could have been as kind as these ponies. They may be…too honest and innocent, but these are very peaceful people that don’t deserved this.” I stated before giving a backhand hook behind me, knocking out another Changeling.  

“Well..you certainly have a talent for fighting. Let’s see if you can even fight…” She started to become surrounded by green flames and soon… “Yourself!”

Ooh, you have got to be kidding me. Upon those green flames, I stared at her, who just…look just like me. Every angle, every aspect, every look on me…she looked exactly like me.

“So you can even transform into one of us as well, huh?” I asked, narrowing my eyes.

“True, it took a while to practice this form.” She laughed, placing her hands on her hips, or…’my hips’, ugh! You know what I mean! “Ever since he gave me a lot of info on you guys, I learned so much about you nuisances but I didn’t bother to take you all on because I realized that you all were just probably worthless to even fight on.”

There she goes again. Who is this ‘he’ she keeps mentioning? I’m not sure who it is, but right now, my first priority is to keep fighting on while protecting Princess Luna and Cadance!

“But anyway, right now…I think it’s time to finish this off!” She laughed evilly as she threw a knee strike towards me. I immediately dodged it before giving her an elbow strike to the gut, causing her to wheeze out.

“You keep on fighting, Mason!” Princess Luna shouted before protecting me from the other Changelings as they tried to pounce at me, but was blocked off by her magic barrier and shooting them away with her magic powers. “I shall protect you all!”

“Hmph! I don’t need any of my minions, I am alright by myself.” My other me shook his head before glaring at me as he tried to strike me again. We kept blocking our blows from each other with me delivering a Rear-leg pushkick, only for her to block it with her palm and tried delivering a Knee strike towards me, causing to jump away from that. I grabbed my bamboo pole and charged towards her as she tried blocking away my attacks, but it wasn’t good enough because I was more good with using my pole than with my fists and knees, and it would seem like that it could applied to Chrysalis as well! She was struggling to stop the blows, and it kept getting bruises to her body. 

“Impossible!” She exploded into anger as she tried firing a green fiery blast from the palm of her hands in that imitation of hers, but I immediately side-step out of the way before elbow kicking her in the gut and knocking her straight in the skull with my bamboo pole. She winced and held her head in pain before growling and reverting back to her original form. “You little gremlin! How dare you try and hurt me?! Do you know who I am?! I am Queen Chrysalis! Queen of all Changelings!”

“Just because of your high status doesn’t prove anything.” I stated with a death glare. “Being leader means that you must lead people to the right path, which is the duty of any ruler such as you, Cadance, Celestia, and Luna. I made a promise to someone I love and I am not willing to break it! I will protect my friends, no matter what!”

“Oh yeah?! You little cretin!” She snarled before returning transforming back into me as she tried to attack me again with many of the techniques like roundhouse, elbow strike, and such. However, I kept dodging her as I planted my pole on the ground and lifted myself off the ground before kicking her from the face. She shook off the pain before reverting back in her original form as her horn began to glow.

“You little bastard! You think you’re so frigging smug?!” She snarled as Princess Luna finished up finishing off some of the Changelings. 

“That depends on who you are facing.” Princess Luna commented with a small smile. 

“Score one for the princess.” I smirked before looking over at Queen Chrysalis. “Just face it…even if you transform into me, you still can’t beat us.”

“Oh yeah? Well then, why not dodge this?!” She fired a powerful green fiery flame towards us as Princess Luna fired another beam of magic, but it wasn’t strong enough to go through it.

“Hang on, your majesty!” I assured before running past her as I jumped over some of the Changelings’ head. Some of them tried to fire their magic beams at me, but I kept dodging them by jumping onto a nearby pillar and leaping over at the Changeling queen. 

“Take this!” She looked over at me and widened her eyes before I gave her a Hi-Jump kick to the face, knocking her down as her beam was weaken, which made Princess Luna’s beam shot her through the horn, causing her to fall down and hit on the debris.

“Thank thou Mason Hunter!” Princess Luna thanked, panting heavily.

“It is my pleasure.” I nodded before looking back at Queen Chrysalis, who slowly gotten back up and growled at me. 

“You…you…!” She growled, gritting her teeth.

“Just face it, I think you and your minions should retreat. Right now, you are just embarrassing yourself.” I stated with a cold dark look on my face.

“GRRRRRR!” She growled angrily, her face turning red while her Changelings started backing away in fear upon seeing her enraged look. Hmph, at this rate…I think she’ll give up and soon enough, they’ll get the Elements of Harmony and use it to defeat them.

“Heh heh heh heh….” Huh? She started chuckling and started laughing evilly before she started to form a smirk at me. “Well…so you’re willing to protect anyone? Even these princesses?”

“What?”

“Ahhh!” I heard a loud screeching, and it came from one pony! Princess Cadance! I immediately turned around to see some Changelings hissing at her, and some licking their lips at her. Queen Chrysalis walked over to Cadance and stroked her by the chin with a sadistic grin on her face. 

“You leave them alone!” I demanded. 

“Hmph! I will…if you just bow down.” Queen Chrysalis stated. “Let’s make a deal, you surrender and I shall let them live…”

“Tch!” I growled.

“Mason!” Cadance shouted. “Don’t listen to her! She’s just lying!”

“Mason, it’s all a trick!” I looked back at Luna, who was starting to grow worn out. “That vermin is just a liar! She is just lying so that she may hurt us all and steal all of our love!”

“Really? Would I ever lie?” After everything you did when disguised as her, I cannot side with that bug queen. “Besides….you wouldn’t want to break a vow to her.”

“W-what?” I asked, widening my eyes a bit. Where is she going with this? 

“I said that you wouldn’t break a vow to…” She was suddenly surrounded by green flames and then transformed into… “Me…”

……No….Why? How? Why did…

She transformed into Elena…?! How…How in the world does she know that?!

She smirked at me with a loving smile, but instead of the kindness and the radiance of goodness coming straight out of her heart, it was filled with misery, grief, and…despair. Her face was twisted…like she was the devil herself. I just stood there with a shocked look…like I couldn’t move at all. Maybe because she managed to transform into her, or…because on how I thought I would never see her face once more. I don’t care for each way…I don’t know…

“What’s wrong Mason? Too afraid to even fight me?” She asked with a soft smile that was like any devil you would see make. Her eyes glowed green before firing a green blast at me, hitting me straight at the chest as I fell to the ground with a hard thud as I struggled to get back up. She came over and kicked me to the side as I fell down the stairs.

“Sir Mason!” Princess Luna yelled before glaring at Chrysalis. “You rotten little!”

She charged towards her with an angry look till more Changelings tackled her and knocked her down next to her sister.

“Y-your majesty…!” I exclaimed as I struggled to get up before getting blasted again on the side, causing me to roll over and whither in pain. 

“Ooh Mason…how disappointing…” She chuckled, walking over to me and smirked darkly at me. “You can’t even fight the ones you protected because you’re too loyal with her and your sister and your pathetic excuse of a bunch of friends. You can’t do anything right because you’re so loyal…but who can you really be loyal too?”

“T-Tch…!” I scoffed as I slowly tried to get up but not before she placed a boot on my head, forcing me to struggle. 

“You claim to be strong, but in actuality, you’re so weak because you cling onto the loyalty of your beloved and friends that it makes you weak.” Chrysalis chuckled. 

“You…monster…!” I growled.

“Leave him alone!” Cadance demanded angrily. “Leave my friend alone!”

“Hmph! Or what?” She scoffed as I struggled to get up as a bunch of Changelings soon flew over to me and smirked and laughed at me.

“Shut up!” I exclaimed. “You all don’t know anything about love! Love isn’t something to just steal! It isn’t just an ‘object’! It’s something to give and share with those you care!”

Queen Chrysalis stared at me in her Elena disguise before scoffing “You’re such an idiot. Oh well…I guess I might as well suck up your love. Your love of this girl I taken the form of and the bond you share with your sister is quite scrumptious…it might satisfied my appetite a bit more than it already is.”

So…this is it? I wasn’t strong enough to fight her off. I stared over at Princess Luna, who was being encased in a green cocoon-like pod along with the unconscious Celestia while Cadance stared at me in horror before she looked over at her future husband, who was still under her control.

“Shining…!” Cadance cried out. “Please…I know that isn’t you. I know that you’re still inside…because I believe in you. I know that you are still inside…!”

It’s no use Cadance…he won’t respond as long as she’s still here. I can’t win…I just don’t know how…!

Don’t be afraid…

W-what? Who said that?

Don’t be afraid…of the dark…and the despair of a vigilante's heart… 

What? Who is saying that? I don’t understand anything of what its saying….

Because…you are one on of the ones’ who can…unlock and use my power…

“You won’t get away with this!” Huh? My thoughts were cut-off as we looked over to see Cadance glaring at Queen Chrysalis. “I just know that Mason can beat you! Along with Twilight and her friends, they’ll-”

Suddenly, we heard the hall doors opening up as it revealed a whole bunch of Changelings, bringing in…

“C-Carrie…? Rarity…?”

What are they?…No…This can’t be happening! It can’t be! Where are the Elements of Harmony?! Why aren’t they wearing them?! What’s going on?! Did…we fail? 



Jamie’s POV

How could this have happened? We were so close onto getting the legendary Elements of Harmony and this happened! I feel so useless again…now we’re captured and brought back here to where we last saw Queen Chrysalis, Mason, Princess Luna and Cadance, but instead…we saw Princess Luna and Celestia trapped in cocoon pods, Cadance getting her legs stuck in the same goo stuff we saw, and worse of all, we all saw a battered Mason being stepped on by some lady. Wait…where have I seen her before?

“You were saying?” The figure asked, smirking at Cadance before turning back to us. “You do realize that the reception’s over, right?”

“It’s not over till we say it’s over!” Ren exclaimed before raising a brow. “Hey wait…do I know you from somewhere?”

“Yeah…you look familiar…” Kaede muttered, looking over at the girl. Strange, I feel like I’ve seen her before as well…but where? I just can’t remember who-

“Okay, who’s the chick?” Jack asked in confusion while Carrie stared at the girl in shock. 

“Carrie…is there something wrong?” Kodi asked in worried, nuzzling her as she just stood there in shock.

“E-Elena!” Carrie exclaimed. 

“C-Carrie!” Mason sputtered out before coughing. “S-stay away from her-UGH!”

He was kept being stepped on pretty hard by ‘Elena’ as she just scoffed “You be quiet, you despicable dispute of a useless tool.”

Mason winced, not only from the pain, but by the insult she gave out. The others glared at the figure as Ren exclaimed “Hey! Leave our friend alone!”

“Hmph! Why should I? I’m just doing what I feel like I can do.” She scoffed, angering Carrie.

“Leave my big brother alone! You’re not Elena!” Carrie exclaimed. “The real Elena would never do anything to big brother like that!”

“Indeed!” Rarity nodded, glaring straight at her. “You have no right to do that to Mason! Mason described her as a royal princess who is very generous to those she loves! Not such a cruel, ungrateful, whelp like you!”

“After what Carrie and Mason told us about their past and history, there’s no way that’s really you.” Kaede pointed out, glaring at ‘Elena’.

“Yeah, I’m surprised that you all aren’t freaking out this woman is human.” Rantaro pointed out with an irritated sigh. “God, you guys are so slow…”

“And plus, that’s Chrysalis.” Nicole said bluntly. “It’s clearly because of her eye color.”

We all took a closer look before noticing that what Nicole pointed out.

“Ooh…I see it now.” Ren stated in awe.

“Wowie zowie, you got good perception there, Nikki!” Pinkie said in awe. “I wished I had super vision like you!”

Nicole went silent before looking away from Pinkie, and I could’ve sworn that she was smiling softly at her compliment.

“Umm, Pinkie? I don’t think the time is right.” Fluttershy said softly. 

“The chick’s right!” Jack nodded, growling towards ‘Elena’. “Let us go, you crappy bug!”

“’Crappy bug’?” ‘Elena’, who is actually Queen Chrysalis, growled at him. “Do not call me a ‘crappy bug’, you fat freakshow!”

“Hey!” Jack exclaimed in anger.

“Cool your jets already.” Rantaro said with a calm and bored look. “Right now…we should just listen in and do what she said. I mean, she got the princesses and Mason in her grasp, along with the groom.”

“Shining! Cadance” Twilight yelled, looking at her brother in worried before glaring at the imposter. “You monster! Give me back my brother and my future sister-in-law!”

“Sorry, can’t do that.” Queen Chrysalis chuckled darkly. “And right now, we all some lunch to go and eat.” 

She turned to her Changeling army that surrounded us as she commanded “Go my Changelings! Go! Feed!”

With that, they laughed evilly before she glared at them for a moment as they immediately head straight out through the windows as Queen Chrysalis reverted back to her original form, stepping over Mason as he was struggling to get up.

“Big brother!” Carrie exclaimed, running over to her brother as the rest of them checked over him. Ren and Jack helped him out as he wheezed out and said “I am so sorry you all…I wasn’t strong enough to beat her. I’m sorry.”


“Don’t say that Mason, you did your best.” Ren assured with a soft grin.

“Yeah! You sure look like crap.” Jack joked with a toothy grin. “Heh, don’t worry, we’ll take care of this crappy bug for ya!”

“Yeah, don’t worry! We promise to avenge ya big brother!” Carrie said with a determined look. “She hurt you, Luna and Cadance and even mocked you while she was in disguise as Elena! I’ll fight and protect ya big brother!”

“She is quite right!” Rarity nodded with a determined look before glaring at Queen Chrysalis. “She shall pay for ever hurting you, sweet Mason! I promise that I’ll fight her off, even if I have no choice but to dirty my own hooves and do some…uncouth things.”

“Carrie…Ren…Jack…Miss Rarity…everypony…thank you.” Mason chuckled.

“You know, it’s funny, really. Twilight and little Jamie here were suspicious of my behavior all along, including those other humans…” She walked over to me and Twilight with a smirk and was about to touch Twilight before she swatted her away as I stood there in fear. “Too bad the rest of you were too caught up in your wedding planning to realize those suspicions were correct! I guess those humans are more better friends than your pony friends.”

“Sorry, Twi, James.” Applejack walked over to us with a sad look. “We should’ve listened to you.”

“It’s not your fault. She fooled everypony.” Twilight assured.

“She’s right…don’t blame yourself.” I shook my head with a sad look. “After all…we were all fools. We all were in her trap.”

“Hmm, I did, didn’t I?” Queen Chrysalis chuckled before looking out the window with a dark grin.

(Queen Chrysalis):
This day has been just perfect
The kind of day of which I've dreamed since I was small
Everypony I'll soon control
Every stallion, mare, and foal
Who says a girl can't really have it all? 


She ended her little song with an evil laugh as we all stood there in anger, shock, and fear. 

“Big brother!” Carrie exclaimed, running over to her brother as the rest of us checked over him.

“…That was quick for a little song.” Nicole said bluntly, unintentionally angering the Changeling queen.

“Why don’t you shut up, you emotionless nuisance!” Chrysalis yelled at her. “After what you’ve tried to do to expose me, I had no choice but to send you away to the same place where I send Cadance!”

Nicole looked at her with a sigh as the rest of us stared at her in shock and confusion.

“What?” Rantaro asked. “What do you mean? Nicole? Care to explain?”

“….” She isn’t replying? Why is that?

“Nicole, what’s wrong?” Ren asked in worried. “I don’t know what you did, but I’m not going to suspect you, I want to believe in you.”

“I am not hiding anything. I’ll explain later.” Nicole assured. “But of right now, we need to focus on getting out of here.”

“It’s too late!” Chrysalis smiled evilly at us. “We’re almost done taking over Canterlot and soon, Equestria’s love will be ours for the taking!”

Nicole stared at her before looking over at the Changelings, seeing them laughing alongside her and smirked evilly at them. Even Rantaro stared at her with a mild annoyed look on his face. Meanwhile, the others glared at her.

“Look, we don’t have to do this, Queen Chrysalis.” Ren said with a worried look. “We can just negotiate and talk this through. You can’t just steal love from them, think about it!”

“Oh, I can and I will.” Queen Chrysalis chuckled darkly. “I’m doing best for what my babies want and I rather not be in the way of you foolish humans.”

“W-what?” Ren asked in confusion. 

“I know a lot about you. A ‘friend’ of mine told me so much about you all. Well I never paid much attention you insolent freakshows because I realized that you all were too weak to fight against me and my army of Changelings.” Queen Chrysalis chuckled with a smug look on her face. “Don’t you get it? Your kind are nothing more than such insolent weaklings who are cowards in disguise.”

“What you say?!” Jack exclaimed. “I swear to god, I’m gonna frigging kill you!”

“Jack! Calm down!” Applejack shouted.

“Y-yeah, violence isn’t a good thing to do!” Fluttershy agreed, trying to prevent Jack from trying to thrash at Queen Chrysalis.

“It’s the truth. Somepony once told me that no species can understand anything. All they did is fight for nothing but for selfish desires. But we have the power to remake the world into our image.” Queen Chrysalis explained. “The world is nothing more than filled with foolish ignorant beings who don’t care about anything. Unlike me, I care for my precious subjects because I want them to get them to savor the taste of sucking in the love of our dinner.”

I just stood there in fear, shaking in fear as Twilight spoken “Like you’ll get away with this! We’ll stop you!”

“Really? Are you really gonna go that far? Even for ‘them’?” Queen Chrysalis pointed over to our friends, mainly the mares. “After they discouraged you because they didn’t care about you, but their little wedding plans of theirs!”

“That’s not true!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “We were just…too busy with stuff!”

“Yeah, like that’s a good lie to come up with.” Rantaro snorted with a smirk, ignoring the death glare from her. “But you know, from the way you’re saying, I bet it relates to your past, isn’t it Chrysie?”

“’Chrysie’? Tch! How original.” Queen Chrysalis scoffed before smirking arrogantly at us. “But yes, I can understand that. Always getting ridicule and shunned by ponies. They say that friendship is magic and all that, but it isn’t. That was what he told me.”

“Eh?” Kodi asked with a dumbfounded look.

“He?” Kaede muttered.

“Oh well, that’s enough about me.” Wait what?! That’s it?! But wait, why is she- “Let’s talk about you two.”

“Huh?” Me and Twilight asked.

“W-what are you saying?” I asked in confusion.

“Why bother saving this world if these ponies don’t care about you, especially you little Jamie.” H-Huh? I stared at her with a confused and surprised look. She looked at me with a sly smirk as she came over and stroked me underneath the chin, staring me in the eyes. “Don’t you remember what they told you earlier before the wedding and my little invasion?”

S-she isn’t…talking about that, right? H-how does she…?

“Hey wait, how do you know that?!” Kaede demanded as Mason glared at her with gritted teeth.

“You…you’ve been spying on us, weren’t you?” Mason asked weakly, which made her smirk and replied “Right you are, human. I saw that bratty blue haired human looking through the door where I banished Twilight down into the abandoned crystal mines. I had to spy on him to see if he doesn’t try anything and I was planning on sending him down with his friend till I overheard the whole conversation.

To prove that, her horn started glowing green as it shot to the air and revealed an image…of us. I widened my eyes in shock as we watched over the screen, but this image was showing my conversation earlier with them.

“W-what is that?” Twilight asked in surprise. “What are you trying to show us?”

“I don’t know, why not ask your little boy toy there?” Twilight turned to me with a concerned look, causing me to wince and stare at the screen with widened eyes, already realizing what this is going on?

Soon, the image soon transpired and showed me arguing with my friends.

“I-it’s Cadance! Twilight was right! That wasn’t Cadance!” My mirror self  exclaimed with a panic look, but instead of seeing shocked looks, all he saw…was doubt. Even Shining had an angry look.

“Jamie…what are you talking about?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“W-what? I’m saying that Twilight’s in danger! We need to find her!” My mirror self exclaimed.

“And why bother?” Huh? We looked over to see Shining Armor scoffing. “Don’t bother with him, you guys. He’s probably just joking around and making things up just like Twilight.” He walked over to him with a glare, causing my mirror self to flinch. “Ha…now I can see why both you and Twilight are friends, you two like to make things up.”

“Now hold on!” Ren said, stepping up. “Why you would say that about your sister?”

“Stay out of this, Ren! I’m busy with my wedding than with my sister!” Ren and the other humans gasped in shock while Princess Celestia and the girls looked at each other.

“N-no! I-I’m not making it up!” My mirror self shook his head with a worried look. “Come on you guys! You have to believe me! Twilight is our friend!”

“She was our friend till she screwed it up.” Rainbow blurted out, much to my shock.


“W-what?” Twilight asked in shock. The others winced and looked away in depression and sad while Cadance looked at this in shock and horror.

“What is this?! Why did you guys…say all that?” Cadance asked. “Why would Shining say that about Twilight?!”

“This is all took place before the wedding began and after what they say about Twilight.” Queen Chrysalis laughed, causing the others to grimaced. “They say so many wrong things to her and abandoned her off the hall, and even to poor little Jamie. They should’ve known that he was telling the truth and not making things, but due to being more caring of your wedding instead of their friendship, they made him go to the deep end.”

I stood there in shock and horror, staring at the screen as it continued playing.

It began showing us many images of the gang not listening to me, not believing that nothing’s happening to Twilight and Nicole, even Shining scoffing and not caring much about her sister, even…the part where I grew outrage.

“Skittles, that was too far!” Jack yelled out in shock. “I mean, did you see how tearful she was?!”

“It’s a Twilight thing-”

“NO IT’S NOT!” The mirror self yelled out, shocking the others as he glared at them angrily. “You all don’t know Twilight at all! You guys call yourselves friends and yet you don’t know each other!”

“J-Jamie…please calm down!” Fluttershy pleaded, feeling a bit scared at my outburst.

“Yeah Jamie!” Pinkie nodded. “How about we calm down and-”

“No! I won’t calm down!” he shouted. “She’s our friend! Twilight may panic but we all our different and we all make mistakes!”

I winced and looked away in fear, not wanting to see this. I don’t want to remember seeing the outrage look on my face. Not even Ren and the others could watch it.

“Jamie…” Twilight turned to me with a worried and sad look. “Did…this really happen?”

“…..Y-yes…it has.” I nodded with a sad look, trying my best not to cry. “B-but it’s okay…I was so stupid for just telling them that…I should have provided with some evidence and I should have even stood up for you earlier…”

“Jamie…” Twilight gritted her teeth, trying her best to hold back her teeth.

“Ooh, don’t cry yet little peasants.” I looked over at Queen Chrysalis, who smirked at us as the next image began playing and…No, why this one? S-she eve saw this?

It was an image of me…an image of me about to leap off the balcony of my attempted suicide. So she saw that too…she watched me try to kill myself. At the moment I leaped off the balcony with a tear-stained look, Cadance and Twilight gasped in shock till I was saved by Ren and the other gang. The others, except Ren and co., widened their eyes in shock upon seeing this.

“No!” Cadance yelled out. “How could you do that?! Why?!”

“Princess…” Applejack muttered.

“Jamie!” Pinkie cried out.

“Oh no…We…we didn’t mean for that to happen!” Fluttershy exclaimed, letting out tears.

“What have we done?” Rarity asked, looking away with a sad and grieving look on her face.

“No way…” Twilight turned to me with a shocked look. “Why?! Why did you try and to kill yourself?!”

“I-I…Because…” I stuttered a bit, wondering what should I say.

“Jamie! How could you?!” Twilight exclaimed. “I can’t believe you would do something that crazy! I know you’re better than that! I…I can’t believe it!” 

Twilight…I’m so sorry. I…I didn’t mean to make you so angry. I should have…

“Is it true?” Rarity asked me in horror. “Did you…really tried to kill yourself?”

“…W-well…”

“I-it’s…true…” Mason coughed. “But…we were able to save him before he fell off to the ground.”

“Yeah, we worked together to save his life.” Ren added, feeling a bit grimace at that. “But we were able to encourage him back to not give up on life.”

“It’s true.” Kaede nodded in agreement. “We understood why because he felt so useless to others and weak…but we made him realized that he was actually strong inside.”

“Strong?” Fluttershy asked in confusion. “What do you mean by that?”

Before any of us could try to say anything, Queen Chrysalis began laughing manically.

“Ha ha ha ha ha! You’re all so immature!” Queen Chrysalis mocked me. “I mean, are you serious? Ha, I guess you fools are so bend up on wanting to keep making these stupid beliefs.”

“What?” I asked in confusion, feeling my fears rising up again. 

“Wanna know something? My dear Shining Armor didn’t say anything from my mouth when I started draining his love energy for Cadance…” She grinned evilly at us and continued “Everything he said to you and Twilight…was from his own mouth. I guess it goes to show you how friendship is nothing more than lies to you.”

“Huh?” I muttered. So…everything he just said…was from his own mouth of his own free will? Does that mean….he really meant it?

“Do you see it now?” She asked with a smug look. “Your friendship with them is nothing more than a bunch of lies! They never cared about you, they only cared about their selfish selves!” I could only just stood there, my arms shaking and sweat forming around my body with a painful look on my face because from what she said…is true. “They should’ve helped you but instead, they abandoned for a wedding over your friendship. I guess they never cared about you. Oh well…that’s a shame.”

“No! That’s not true!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Quit bullying Jamie like that! Stop mind manipulating with your…mind tricks!”

“Oh? So now you care? Or are you pretending to care for him just to further break his emotions even more?” Pinkie flinched at that as she stuttered “N-no…that’s not what I-”

“Of course it’s true.” Queen Chrysalis chuckled darkly before turning to me. “Do you see now little Jamie and Twilight? Your friends never cared for you…they’re just trying to hold you back from understanding the true value of friendship. I would know because I know everything to satisfy myself and others.”

I-is that right? Is she…right? No…it can’t be…

“No! You’re wrong!” Huh? Twilight glared angrily at Queen Chrysalis as she got into a battle position. “I know why my friends would leave me like that because I was too foolish to do anything and it made them lose my trust in them! But Jamie…he stood up and tried to help me, but instead gotten his trust for them lost as well. But soon after, he regained it back.”

“Hmph, do you really believe in that?” Queen Chrysalis scoffed before I noticed a little glint in her eyes. “Oh? What’s this?”

“Listen to yourself!” Twilight glared harshly towards the Changeling queen as she continued “I know that my friends didn’t have any ill intention to harm anyone! I believe in my friends because…I trust them. I know at first that I never knew about friendship, that I thought of it nothing more than just a mere challenge but after spending time with them throughout Ponyville. I learned so many things that a book couldn’t taught me.”

T-Twilight…do you really mean it?

“Ren, Fluttershy, Kodiak, Rarity, Mason, Carrie, Rainbow Dash, Jack, Rantaro, Nicole, Kaede, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Spike…” The people and ponies who were called up beamed up with smiles and felt encouraged. She then turned to me with a bright grin. “And Jamie….they were always there for me. They taught me so much…so many things, allowed us some places around Equestria, and…I’m glad that I’m happy to be with them.”

Twilight…thank you. After being with you for some time around in Equestria, reading many of my novels and your research books with you and Spike on endless nights, learning about each other’s cultures in our worlds, and for you to understand me so much…Thank you for being there for me as well.

“Oh?” Huh? She looked over us with a soft smile before grinning “Well well well…I’m sensing a quite amount of love from you two. Even stronger than Cadance and Shining Armor….could it be from the bond you two shared?”

“Huh? Wait, what are you doing?” I asked in worried before widening my eyes in shock. “Wait…you aren’t going to…”

“Why of course. I could eat you two up so good.” She chuckled with an evil grin before looking back at the hypnotized Shining Armor, the beaten Mason, and trapped Princess Cadance. “I came here to suck up the powerful loving bonds of Shining Armor and Princess Cadance, but after meeting you all…I sense a strong bond from those two little siblings…”

Mason gritted his teeth as his sister held her brother’s arm in fear, despite him being in pain and possibly hurting him…

“Along with those two…” She pointed towards Ren and Fluttershy, which the latter yelped in surprise before hiding behind Ren, who held a concern look for his special somepony while Kodiak barked at her. “They have an incredible strong love for each other. This is all just too much of an appetite! It would seem that I, er no, we have hit the jackpot!”

The rest of the remaining Changelings laughed in agreement with her. I started to grew fearful of her the moment she turned to me with a sadistic smile on her face.

“But you know…I am curious to know what a human’s heart taste like.” She chuckled as I began backing in fear. I…I don’t know what I can do. I mean…I don’t have any powers to begin with…I’m just…useless to people and ponies. “Oh? Do I sense fear? You don’t have to be afraid. I understand that feeling Jamie.”

“What?” I asked, my face starting to turn pale.

“You and I are like the same. Shunned by everyone we meet, can’t trust anyone, always felt lonely…that’s why I find you interesting because…” She smiled darkly at me. “You’ll be the first for me to eat.”

She licked her lips as I shivered in fear…unable to do anything but simply stand there like a fool.

“You leave him alone!” Twilight exclaimed, stepping up for me.

“T-Twilight?!” Cadance shouted in fear. “Twilight no! Don’t go anywhere near her!”

“What’s this? Are you protecting him? Is this the result of your bond?” She asked. “Are you protecting the one you love and care so much?”

“Of course I’ll protect Jamie!” Twilight looked at her with an angry look. “Back then, he managed to save us along with Ren and Mason and Princess Luna by getting rid of those bridesmaids and leading us all the way to the other exit of the cave. The moment I saw him, I saw something in him. Instead of nervousness and being fearful of everything, I saw courage, bravery, and something that I can’t explain. Maybe…determination? But either way, he was acting all brave than I can ever imagined. He was like someone that I never knew, and I appreciate the strength he carried.”

“T-Twilight…!” I exclaimed in shock and surprise by hearing all that. So…she admired seeing that ‘me’? I…I thought she never noticed, but I guess I was wrong. No, I was wrong because I know she saw me like that. She believes that I am brave and I can be strong…Strong….That word is what made me remember earlier back on the balcony. Ren, Kaede, Mason, Carrie, Jack, and Rantaro encouraged me to believe in myself. Believe…is what they said to me. I have to believe in myself.

“Hmph…you’re such an idiot. Well, more idiotic than your brother if he couldn’t even see through my disguise.” Queen Chrysalis scoffed before her horn began glowing out of irritation. “Now if you kindly get out of my way or else I’ll blast you!”

“No! Jamie saved my life and I’ll do the same for him!” Twilight exclaimed, glaring at the Changeling queen.

“T-Twilight!” Fluttershy gasped.

“Twilight don’t!” Ren shouted. “That’s too hard to handle!”

“I don’t care! I’m gonna protect you all because that’s what friends would!” Twilight shouted before firing a magic beam at Queen Chrysalis, who retaliated just in time with her magic beam. However, due to the increased strength she gained while absorbing Shining’s love, her beam was too powerful for even Twilight to counteract! I stood there in horror, unable to do anything. I…I have to do something! I must do something! I can’t afford to do this. This is my chance…my chance to prove that I am reliable!

“TWILIGHT!” I shouted before jumping in the way and pushing Twilight away, forcing her to stop shooting her beam as Chrysalis’s beam shot forward and… 

“AHHHHHH!” Everything turned white. Everything in sight…I couldn’t tell what was happening, but I feel so much pain….so much agony….so much…darkness…

“J-Jamie!” I slowly began opening my eyes to see Twilight looking at me with a worried and stressful look. The others were trying to come check over me, but the Changelings were blocking their path.

“Jamie! Are you alright?! Speak to me!” Twilight shouted with a scared look on her face. I struggled to get up as I glanced over at my body, seeing many burn scars on my body and bruises. “Jamie, why did you do that? Why did you push me out of the way?! You knew that you were gonna get badly hurt, so why?!”

“B-because…I didn’t want you to suffer and get hurt.” I weakly replied, much to her confusion. “I…I wanted to prove something. I wanted to prove that I wasn’t a coward and I can be proven useful, I….I guess I was wrong…”

“No you weren’t!” Twilight yelled out throughout the hall, shocking the others while Queen Chrysalis simply scoffed at me. “You are useful! To just…save my life and to sacrificed yours…”

“I-It’s nothing….” I slowly began getting up from the ground. 

“What do you mean it’s nothing?! You could’ve been killed!”

“I-I know…but…it was worth it.” I muttered as I finally stood on my own two feet as I glared at Queen Chrysalis. “I…I couldn’t just stand there and do nothing and watch her keep making us all suffer like this. She…she manipulated the others, and destroyed our friendship with each other, and even took control of your brother into a mindless slave….I couldn’t take it….I…I’m…”

Tears began forming around my eyes as they streamed down from my cheeks.

“I…I can’t be brave like any of you…not Ren, not Jack, not Mason, no one but…myself.” I continued. “I realized now…you guys are my friends. All this time, I kept being unsure of it when we first met. That is till I really saw how you guys interacted with each other, and such. I then realized that you guys even acknowledged me as a friend, whether you told me or not, you all still thought of me as a friend….and I know that. For all these years…I was alone…bullied by people for what I am…but after being here with you all…I realized that you all treated me nicely….You all thought of me as your best friend…all this time, I thought of myself as a useless novelist, but after what I did…”

I started walking towards Chrysalis, but due to the injuries I received from that blast, I was limping about towards her. 

“After everything I went through…I realized that I wasn’t useles…I was helpful, and I was strong because of my determination to be strong. All because you guys showed it to me. You all…are my friends, and I’m glad to be your friend too! I’m glad to meet wonderful people and ponies like you all!”

“Jamie!” Ren gasped in shock. “Don’t do this!”

“I have to…if I don’t, then what would be the point…?” I coughed as I glared at Queen Chrysalis, who looked at me with an angry look. 

“…You’re such an idiot. What would be the point of just taking your love if you’re gonna keep being this stubborn?” She asked me with an angry look before smirking devilishly. “Oh well…it doesn’t matter. What matters is that I should take it from you to just soothe the pain you went through.”

“No that’s wrong!” I exclaimed, pointing my index finger at her while trying my best to ignore the pain. “You’re wrong Queen Chrysalis! There’s a difference between you and I and that’s my strength coming from the power of my friends!”

“What?” She asked.

“After being in Equestria for a while, I learned that my strength came from my friends! They’re the spark that triggers my heart to be confident in myself! I’m gonna try and save everyone! What you are is nothing but an arrogant monster who enjoys watching us suffer! You think you know what everypony wants, but you don’t! You don’t care about anyone! You only care about yourself and that’s why you fail in earning love from others!”

“You…You…!” She gritted her teeth while the others were shocked by everything that came out of my mouth.

“Wow…I never thought the nerd would say that.” Jack commented with a surprised look on his face.

“Well it’s always the timid ones that shout out loudly.” Ren commented bluntly, unaware that Fluttershy was blushing in embarrassment. 

“Alright then…” Queen Chrysalis smirked at me and Twilight with an evil smile. “Let’s see if you handle this!”

She turned to her Changelings and that exact moment, they charged towards me and pounced towards us.

“Jamie! Watch out!” Twilight yelled as she surrounded us in a pink barrier as all of the Changelings banged against the barrier and tried to get through it. 

“Twilight! Jamie! Hang on tight!” Ren yelled out before shooting a ‘Break’ bullet towards the Changelings as the others tried to help out, even Mason, despite how much pain he went through his fight with Queen Chrysalis. Meanwhile, with the Changeling queen, she was laughing evilly at us.

“Ah ha ha ha! Look at you all! So worried for your friend that you’re gonna watch as my Changelings are gonna take away all of your love! Ah ha ha ha ha!” Queen Chrysalis laughed as I glared at her as Twilight began sweating, implying that she can’t keep hold of it any longer.

“Ugh…! Don’t worry…we’ll get out of here Jamie.” Twilight muttered.

“…Twilight.” I spoke up with a serious look on my face. “If we don’t make it out of here…I want to let you know…” I took a deep breath with a soft smile. “It was so nice being around you. You…were my first friend to understand me completely and share a few of my hobbies. Our time together…wasn’t meaningless. You…encouraged me to be with me. You…were my best friend...No, more than my friend. Because I….I….”

And I should let her know much about my true feelings. I need…to let her know.

“Jamie…I should be thanking you.” Hm? What? She glanced towards me with a soft smile. “Our time together was something I’ll never forget. I want to thank you for trying to stand up for me.” She let out a giggle despite already getting a headache. “It’s funny…I had these strange feelings whenever we see each other. You were always telling yourself that you’re weak, but instead…you were strong all along. You were trying to prove that you were strong…but it also showed how far you were gonna prove to be strong and I’m proud of you for it.”

“T-Twilight…” I muttered as she slowly walked towards us, unaware that the force field was slowly disappearing. 

“I…I don’t know what I’m feeling, but I understand now. You…You like me, don’t you Jamie? I’ve noticed why you keep blushing around me, but it took me so long to figure this out. I…I don’t know what to say Jamie, but…I’m glad to met a human being like you.” Twilight smiled softly as I stared at her in astonishment and shocked before chuckling to myself as I glanced away from her and replied “T-Twilight…I never knew that you figured it out. Heh heh…here I was, acting like a coward who couldn’t do anything to satisfied you.”

“But you did…and thank you for everything Jamie.”  Twilight thanked.

“No Twilight, it’s you that I need to thank. You’re mainly the spark that flies in my heart…and…I really like for being who you are.” I smiled softly at Twilight stared at me with a shocked look before blushing a bit before smiling over me.

“Ha ha ha. I guess the two of us were too scared to share our feelings with each other.” Twilight chuckled with a soft smile. “I’m…so glad to meet you Jamie….”

“Me too…Twilight.” I smiled softly before we slowly held each other by the hands/hooves before we slowly began to approach each other and then, at that moment the force field began to crack to pieces….we kissed. We kissed for the first time. I don’t know how to explain this…but it felt so…passionate. I don’t know how to explain it…it gave me the spark I needed to learn the true meaning of strength, and that’s the power of my friends.

I am thou, thou art I... Thou hast acquired a new vow. It shall become the wings of rebellion that breaketh thy chains of captivity. With the birth of the first Guardian of Magic, I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and new power.


And with that, the force field broke into pieces as the Changelings charged towards us, but not until a giant glow surrounded us, and everything in sight turned white. I don’t know what happened….but at least I finally gotten my wish true…



Several minutes earlier
Ren’s POV

“Jamie! Twilight!” I shouted with a horror look on my face, seeing the Changelings swarming around them while they were trapped in the force field.

“Those two-timing bastards!” Jack yelled out, gritting his teeth as his face was turned completely red out of anger. 

“No!” Fluttershy cried out.

“Jamie! Twilight!” Kodi exclaimed.

“Not them!” Applejack gritted her teeth before glaring at the laughing Queen Chrysalis. “You think this is funny?! You let them go!”

“Why should I? Those two have a strong bond with each other, so it should be enough for my precious Changelings to eat.” Queen Chrysalis remarked, upsetting most of us.

“You monster!” Cadance shouted as she struggled to get out of the goo trapped around her hooves. 

“Calm down princess, they’ll be fine once my Changelings finishes them off.” Queen Chrysalis assured with a soft yet devilish grin on her face. “Like I had for Shining Armor…”

“No…” She muttered as she started to tear up. I glared at Chrysalis with an angry look before exclaiming “No, that’s wrong!”

“Ugh, don’t give me that look boy.” She scoffed with an arrogant smile. “It’s too late. The princesses are incapacitated, Shining is now under my control, and now my Changelings can feed on the two friends you all abandoned.”

“We didn’t abandoned them!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. 

“Au contraire, you did.” Chrysalis pointed out. “You all abandoned them for not even believing in them. You even let poor old Jamie Watson try to kill himself. You all should be ashamed for yourself.”

“But…we never wanted this…” Pinkie sniffled a bit, letting some tears out.

“It’s all our faults…” Applejack lowered her head before taking off her hat and placed it on her chest with a sad look. 

“N-no…it’s not your faults…” We all turned to Mason, who Kaede, Carrie, and Rarity were carrying after me and Jack tried to help out and defeat the Changelings. “We saved him…and gave him another chance. Twilight never gave up…and that’s what makes her give up. She never gave up on saving us all, and even what they done was wrong…she doesn’t blame them because you manipulated them…and that’s what makes her special. Even Jamie isn’t willing to give up…Ugh…!”

“Big brother!” Carrie yelled out, holding onto him with a worried look.

“Hmph…do you really think that they could fight back? Even after losing to my Changelings since they’re probably devouring their love together.” Chrysalis smirked.

“No! Mason’s right!” I yelled out with a serious look on my face. “Twilight and Jamie aren’t the type to lose that easily! They’re gonna beat you! We all are gonna save everyone from your wrath!”

“Oh really? And how are you gonna do that?” Queen Chrysalis smirked teasingly. I smirked before raising my Hacking Gun in front of her as I prepared to fire one of my Truth Bullets at her. “Oh? You are going to shoot me with that stupid thing?”

“Not just that…” Jack stepped up with a scowl. “I’m gonna take ya down you frigging little bug! I’ll crush you with all of my might!”

“I may not have powers, but that’s not gonna stop me from defeating you!” Kaede exclaimed, glaring at Queen Chrysalis.

“You’re nothing more than a creepy bug with sharp teeth and an ugly distorted voice.” Nicole said, narrowing her eyes at Chrysalis.

“Yeah, even I don’t have the heart to sell out a life.” Rantaro stated, narrowing his eyes towards the bug queen.

“Same here!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed with determination. “Once we’re through with you, I’m gonna go and apologize to them for what we did.”

“I want to apologize with them as well.” Fluttershy nodded in agreement. “I wanted to forgive them, but I grew afraid. That’s why…I wanna try. I wanna try and not back away in fear because like Jamie, we all can be brave.”

“Yeah! I should’ve stood up for them!” Applejack nodded. “But instead, I was the one who suggested to instead check up on the princess instead of our friends.”

“We all thought of them as jerks, but we were the jerks instead.” Pinkie stated with a serious look. “I wanna make them happy again and that’s what I’m gonna do.”

“How charming…” Queen Chrysalis scoffed. “Oh well..it doesn’t matter.”

“No…they’re right!” Cadance exclaimed with a serious look. “I…I don’t know what you guys did to Twilight and Jamie, but I forgive you and I know it wasn’t your intentions. So that’s why I’m gonna keep going and fight head on towards them.”

“Really? You’re gonna keep on fighting? Even if I have your beloved Shining Armor under my control?” Queen Chrysalis laughed mockingly at her before sighing “Oh well…it doesn’t matter. You all are gonna die anyway.”

“Oh yeah? Here’s what I say…” I raised my Hacking Gun in front of her and said “Eat led, Chrysalis!”

But before I could fired it, we saw a bright flash coming from the swarm of Changelings, much to our surprise.

“What the heck?!” Kodi exclaimed. “What’s happening Ren?!”


“I don’t know!” I shouted as the bright flash exploded, blasting away all of the Changelings in the room as we all were blinded by the light. Ugh, what the heck’s happening? Why does it give me this Kingdom Hearts vibe all of a sudden?


“WHAT?!” Queen Chrysalis yelled out in shock.

Soon after, the light began to died down as we all uncovered our eyes and once we did, we saw an unbelievable sight. We saw Twilight and Jamie…kissing each other, and were the ones producing that light.

“Twilight?” Fluttershy muttered in surprise.

“Jamie?” Kaede gasped, covering her mouth in surprise. “And are they…?”

“Holy crap…” Jack blinked before barking up a laughter before placing his hands on his hips with a cocky grin. “Who knew the nerd had the guts to do…that?”

“Amazing…” Mason grinned a little while the the light surrounded us the area. Soon enough, Jamie and Twilight ended their little kiss as they looked at each other in awe. 

“Wow…” They both muttered in awe.

“Wow, it’s about time those two finally get a room.” Rantaro sighed, adjusting his fedora. 

“….They look nice with each other.” Nicole said bluntly while Jamie and Twilight looked over at us with soft smiles. Wait…hold on, what’s that on both of Jamie’s cheeks? It looks like a tattoo. The shaped of that tattoo looked like a heart-like shield, but the background of the tattoo on the outer area had a full moon and sun marks surrounding it, and the color on the inner color of the heart-tattoo like shield were the color of a rainbow, and what’s weird that it had a mark on the center of the heart-shaped shield-like tattoo. That mark…doesn’t it look like Twilight’s cutie-mark? Wait a minute…it is! What the heck?! Where did THAT come from?!

“Jamie! Twilight! You’re alive!” Kodi exclaimed happily, panting heavily before running over and jumping on top of Jamie, causing him to yelp before he fell on the floor and he began licking his face multiple times while the rest of us ran over and checked up on him and Twilight. 

“H-hey! S-Stop that! I know you like me, but please!” Jamie begged as the rest of us laughed at the scene. 

“Dude, that was so epic!” I laughed with a cheeky grin. “I never imagined that you would kiss Twilight, even at a time like this!”

“Guess our little man is growing up finally.” Jack chuckled.

“Indeed.” Mason chuckled before coughing. 

“Yeah…” Jamie softly smiled. “I guess I never expected that to happen.”

“Are you kidding me?! That was like the craziest thing I’ve ever seen!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Oh my gosh! This is something we need to celebrate on!” Pinkie laughed.

“Who knew you had it in ya to kiss Jamie like that, Twi?” Applejack chuckled, along with the rest of the girls while Twilight blushed in embarrassment.

“H-hey, take it easy girls.” Twilight chuckled, trying her best to hide away her blush. “It’s nothing…”

“It’s okay Twilight. I understand how you feel.” Fluttershy assured with a soft grin. “When I first kissed Ren, it was something…magical. Like all of that hope that I lost earlier just suddenly came back to me.”

“Thanks for at least understanding me, Fluttershy.” Twilight chuckled.

“H-hey!” I yelled out, my face turning red. “Flutters! Don’t remind me of that!”

“Sorry Ren.” Fluttershy apologized.

“Oh well, it doesn’t matter.” Kaede smiled brightly towards Jamie and Twilight. “What matters is that you guys are still alright.”

“Yeah…I can’t believe that happened.” Jamie replied. Soon enough, we all took noticed of those strange-heart shaped shield-like tattoos on each of his cheeks. “W-what? What is it?”

“Huh, that’s a strange detail on your face.” Rantaro remarked. “I guess that little make-out session wasn’t the only thing we would expected.”

“W-w-wait what?!” Jamie began rubbing his face, wondering what we were talking about. “What’s on my face?!”

“Calm down, we’ll tell you later.” Nicole assured before cleaning off her glasses. “In the meantime…we should probably take care of her.”

Her? Oh right, Chrysalis! I totally forgot about her! We all immediately turned back to see Chrysalis slowly getting up with a scowl on her face.

“You little brats! You all can’t just sit down and give up, do you?” Chrysalis growled. “You all are gonna pay for this.”

“Yeah right!” I exclaimed, glaring straight towards the Changeling queen. “No way we’re gonna lose to you! Jamie and Twilight came this far together and knocked out all of your minions, leaving only you but we can fight alongside them!”

“What?” She asked in a dumbfounded look.

“Jamie and Twilight endured all the pain from their hearts when the girls abandoned them, and while we were trying to comfort them, they managed to overcome so much pain and suffering from the betrayal! They never gave up on trying to save us all because they still believed in us! Even if Twilight was in tears, and Jamie was trying to commit suicide, we still managed to encourage them. And thanks to our encouragement, they kept on fighting you and the rest of the Changelings! That’s the reason why their bond is so strong, and I bet the same goes for Shining and Cadance because of their willpower is as strong as them, along with me and Flutters!”

“Yeah!” Kodi nodded in agreement. “Too bad that you can’t understand love!”

“True.” Nicole nodded in agreement with a somewhat stern look. “You think you know everything about what’s best for everyone, even for your minions. Well you’re wrong, you don’t.”

“Probably because that she never ever learned to be love in the first place.” Rantaro mocked with an small cocky grin on his face. “I bet because of that ugly looking face of yours along with that little arrogant and sly personality of yours, I can imagine why someone like you could never be loved by anyone.”

Queen Chrysalis growled angrily with many tick marks appearing on her head. 

“You little bastards! Don’t you dare mock my beauty!” She fired a powerful fiery-like beam towards us as Jamie stepped forward and shouted “No! Leave my friends alone!”

Suddenly, a force field appeared around us as it blocked away her magic beam.

“The hell?!” Jack exclaimed in shock and surprise.

“Twilight, did you do that?” Carrie asked in surprise. 

“No, I haven’t even began using my magic!” Twilight shook her head, having a surprised look on her face.

“Even my magic can’t excel into doing that!” Rarity pointed out.

“So that would mean…” We all slowly turned to Jamie, who was just surprised as we are. “Jamie?” Carrie muttered.

“Did I…do that?” He asked himself as he looked at his hands in surprise. “I don’t…believe it.”

“I can’t believe it!” Kaede exclaimed. “How did he do that?!”

“Impossible…” Mason muttered in shock. “Jamie, how on earth did you do that?”

“I-I don’t know!” Jamie exclaimed, raising his hands in surrender with a panicky look on his face. Thanks to that, it caused the shield to disappear while Chrysalis became shocked by seeing that.

“What?! Impossible! How can a brat like you used magic?!” Chrysalis demanded. “Humans are nothing more than useless defenseless freaks that can’t do anything!”

“Well you’re wrong!” Twilight exclaimed, standing next to Jamie. “Because these guys proves you wrong. Jamie, Ren, Kaede, Jack, Mason, Carrie, Rantaro, and Nicole are all trying to fight for us. Everything is nothing but bias and I’m proud of be called a friend to them.”

We all nodded in agreement while Jamie looked at Chrysalis with a serious look. 

“Twilight’s right. You claimed that you and I are alike, but you’re wrong. You’re someone who loves to suffer pain on anyone you meet and manipulate, but I’m not you. I’m someone willing to help a friend and prove to you that our friendship is as magical as we claim!” Jamie exclaimed, causing the rest of us to grinned.

Jamie…it seems like you really gotten your courage back. You held all that strength that you never knew about inside of you, and it’s being unleashed right now. Come on James, we can’t afford to lose to her.

“Hmph…Oh really? Let’s see how strong your bond is.” Chrysalis smirked. “In case you forgotten, I still gotten the Captain of the Royal Guard under my hoof. So I’ll have him deal with you.”

“Huh?…What’s going on? Where am I?” Huh? We all looked over behind Chrysalis to see Shining Armor, and he was back to normal! Judging by his eyes, he wasn’t hypnotized at all!

“Shining! You’re back!” Cadance gasped before nuzzling her husband, who chuckles to see her before looks around in confusion and bluntly asks “Wait, is the reception over?”

“Really?” Rantaro asked in a deadpan tone. “Oh well…looks like his mind is all right.”

“W-what?!” Chrysalis exclaimed, widening her eyes in horror. “Impossible! How could?!”

“Don’t know, don’t care.” Jack grinned. “Looks like you’re outnumbered.”

“Yeah, but remember? She drained all of Shining’s magic.” Twilight reminded them. “So he can’t fight back.”

“You’re right…” Jamie nodded. “But who’s say that we don’t have a chance?”

“Yeah!” I nodded in agreement. “Hey Jamie, Twi? How about you two show Chrysalis that something that she and the other Changelings lacked?”

“Huh?” Jamie and Twilight asked in confusion.

“He’s talking showing both of your love for each other.” Kodi said, causing the two of them to blush madly.

“W-w-what?!” Jamie gasped.

“Quick being such a punk and do it!” Jack exclaimed.

“W-w-well…” Jamie blushed while Queen Chrysalis growled at them.

“You insolent fools! You always ruined my glorious plans and that is why you all will pay dearly!” Chrysalis fired a green fiery ball of light straight towards them.

“Not so fast!” I exclaimed before shooting a ‘Knock-Back’ bullet, sending it away back to her before she dodged it in time while that magic attempt of hers explodes right behind her. Soon after that, I stood next to Jamie, who looked at me in surprise as I grinned at him back and nodded before glaring at Chrysalis and said “We aren’t just gonna let you get away with that! Because we got each other’s back! And we won’t let you get away with this!”

“Ren…” Jamie muttered in awe. “Thank you for saving us.”

“Hey, I know you can do it. I mean, your love for each other will give each other strength.” I said with a determined grin. “Now show them, you guys! Show them that our power comes from love and friendship!”

“Ren’s right!” Cadance shouted. “Our love can give us strength!”

“Ha ha ha!” Queen Chrysalis mocked us with her signature laugh as she arrogantly smiled and said “What a lovely but absolutely ridiculous sentiment.”

“And there you have it.” Jamie said, glaring at the Changeling queen. “Because you treat love like an object that you couldn’t understand it. You can’t learn love because you’ve never bothered to learn what love means to you! It’s an emotion that grows inside of us all, and you failed to even acknowledged that because you never been loved or even showed love to anypony. That’s why you were treated like this because of your cruel nature of treating anyone you meet as a puppet for you to control.”

Soon, the two tattoos on his cheeks began glowing brightly as he and Twilight held each other by their hands/hooves as Shining and Cadance smiled at each other with nods as their horns intersected by the tip of it, sparking up some magic as they started to glow brightly from the strength of their love before being swarmed around them and a warm embrace. The two looked surprised before smiling softly at each other before their eyes started glowing the moment they kissed.

Jamie held Twilight’s hoof with a soft smile, which Twilight nodded before the two looked at each other as Twilight’s cutie-mark began glowing along with the tattoos on Jamie’s cheeks as they started floating in the air, surrounded by a bright pink glow and a warm embrace. Twilight and Jamie smiled at each other as the former said “You know, I guess this was kinda out of the blue.”


Jamie blushed madly before replying “Y-yeah…I never expected any of this to happened so suddenly, I-I’m not so sure if I-I’m ready.”

“Maybe…” Twilight put her hoof under his chin, much to his surprise. “But you don’t to conquer it alone. We got each other.”

Jamie stared at her for a while before smiling softly as tears began raining down his cheeks before he replied “Yes…we do. And…I’m glad that I have you and everyone by my side…Twilight.”

“And I couldn’t agree more with that…Jamie.” Twilight and Jamie slowly began getting closer, and closer, and closer until…

“No! I won’t let you fools do this!” Chrysalis screamed as she prepared to attack them back. “I will not be satisfied till I claim your love! It’s the survival of the fittest for us Changelings! This is-AHHHHHHHH!”

She was immediately struck down as she started swirling her eyes like crazy as electricity began surrounding her body before she fell to her knees. We all became shocked by that before we looked over to see Rantaro raising his taser gun in the air with an annoyed look, but kept it with a calm and sly smile on his face.

“Survival of the fittest my behind.” Ooh wow, he used that line from that movie? Only except that last part…Oh well, never mind. You don’t need to hear it. Other than that…

Ah ha! In your face Chrysalis! The moment these Jamie and Twilight kissed, both of their loves grew stronger along with Shining and Cadance’s love for each other as they beamed brightly as a strong bright light shot towards around the area as we all immediately covered our sights as we hear Queen Chrysalis screamed as we were blinded by the light. Soon after, it all went silent as we all uncovered our eyes as we all watched in awe to see Shining, Cadance, Jamie, and Twilight all floating back down with smiles on their faces as we watched them in awe.

“Whoa, that was so awesome!” I exclaimed in awe. 

“Yeah.” Huh? We looked back to see Mason slowly getting back up, but all of his wounds were healed. “I gotta say, that’s pretty impressive.”

“B-Big brother?!” Carrie exclaimed in shock. “How are you?!”

“Huh?” Mason looked over and noticed that his body was completely healed, no bruises or scratches. “What the? When did…how the?”

“Mason!” Rarity ran over and wrapped her hooves tightly around Mason, catching him by surprise as she began sniffling and tears began descending down her cheeks. “I’m so glad that you’re alright!”

“Y-yeah…” Mason chuckled while Jack glares at him before he flickers his head, much to his annoyance. “Ow! What was that for?!”

“Just wanted to make sure.” Jack huffed with a cocky toothy grin before adding “Also, for whacking me on the head with that pole of yours.”

“Jeez, thanks…” Mason rolled his eyes as Carrie hugged him tightly along with Rarity while he chuckled. Though while his body was somehow completely healed, probably from that giant flash of light coming out of Jamie, Twilight, Cadance, and Shining, his clothes were still shredded into pieces. I guess Kaede and Rarity should fix that up when we get back.

“Oh dear!” Rarity gasped, noticing how his sleeves were ruined. “Mason darling, what happened to your sleeves?!”

“It’s…a long story.” Mason chuckled, sweat-dropping a little.

Yeah, I bet it is a long story and it’s kinda obvious what it was. 

“Ooh…” Huh? We looked over to see Princess Celestia and Luna slowly getting out of their pods with groans.

“Princess Celestia! Princess Luna!” Twilight and Jamie ran towards them with worried looks as Jamie asked “Are you two okay? Nothing happened, right?”

“We are fine.” Princess Celestia assured with a soft grin. “But I must say, we have to thank you all for helping us.”

“Actually, it was more like Jamie and Twilight, along with Shining Armor and Cadance saving the day.” I stated, placing a hand on Jamie’s shoulder. Jamie looked at me in surprise before smiling softly with a blush.

“C-Come on…” Jamie muttered while the others walked over to compliment the gang.

“Jamie, Twi, we’re so sorry for not standing up for ya.” Applejack apologized.

“Yeah! We all should apologized!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Please please please please forgive us!”

“Okay you guys, just calm down.” Twilight chuckled. “We don’t blame you guys. We’re just glad that you’re all alright.”

“Yeah.” Jamie nodded while Jack smirked at him before ruffling his hair, much to Jamie’s surprise. “H-hey! I-I’m sorry!”

“Nah, I ain’t hurting ya nerd. Just appreciating how strong you became…” He gotten closer to his face before making a sly grin and whispered “Especially kissing the chick of ya dreams.”

“S-Stop it!” Jamie exclaimed while the rest of us laughed.

“You know…I’m surprised that you did that to my sister.” Uh oh. Looks like Jamie is about to get chewed out by Shining. We all turned around to see Shining walking over, along with Cadance, who also gotten out of the goo slime off of her hooves. He held a stern look and said “I mean, a human kissing a pony, nonetheless my sister.”

“U-uhh…..” Jamie blushed and looked away in fear, which caused some of us to give him sympathetic looks and smirks on our faces.

“Looks like Jamie went back to his soft and nervous side.” Kodi whispered to me with a small smile, which I nodded in agreement and replied “Yeah, he sure is.”

“Shining, calm down.” Twilight assured.

“Indeed. After all, we all need to rest up after the battle we fought.” Princess Luna pointed out. “After fighting off all of those Changelings have worn me out a bit.”

“Indeed, Luna.” Princess Celestia chuckled. “We all went through such an intense battle.”

“You tell me.” Rantaro couldn’t help but agree to that. “Still though Celeste…Next time you get another threatening letter, be sure to double check anyone if you feel like there’s something off with them. You guys are too naive to fall for this stuff.”

“I can’t help but agree with Rantaro on that.” Nicole slightly nodded with a sigh. “You all fell for her trick when she was obviously an imposter due to her condescending and demanding demeanor appearance and attitude, along on how she kept insulting with the rest of us.” 

That caused some of the ponies to sheepishly rubbed the back of their heads until we heard Shining groaning as he placed a hoof on his head. 

“Oooh….not another headache. I’m already getting sick of it.” Shining groaned, causing Twilight to chuckle.

“Don’t worry Shining, we’ll get you healed up.” Twilight assured with a soft grin.

“Yeah, we all deserved to rest up after today.” I nodded with a smile before noticing Kaede looking around the destruction of the hall with a concern look before she chuckled nervously with a sweat-drop and added “Yeah…I think the wedding is gonna be put on hold, right?”

“It would seem so, Kaede.” Celeste nodded with a smile.

“Yeah…” Cadance nodded. “By the way…Shining?”

“Yes Cadance?” The moment Shining turned to her, he was slapped in the face by her as she gave him a scolding look. “Ow! What was that for?!”

“That was for insulting Twilight like that! I mean, she was practically in tears and you even straight out nearly gotten Jamie to kill himself!” That caused Jamie to shiver a bit as Twilight comforted him with a soft hug.

“Yeah, that’s gonna be one thing we want to forget.” Kodi said.

“But at least we still encouraged him to keep being strong, right?” Carrie reminded us with a cheerful smile. “I still think Jamie is still a strong guy like Ren, big brother, and Jack.”

“T-thank you Carrie…” Jamie thanked, a light blush on his face.

“Yeah, you were quite amazing out there.” Kaede complimented, furthering embarrassing him. 

“Speaking of which…” Princess Celestia walked over to Jamie as she gently placed her hoof on Jamie’s cheek, much to his confusion. “Ah…!”

“W-what? What is it?” Jamie asked nervously.

“Your cheeks…” Princess Celestia spoken in surprise. “It has cutie-marks.”

“Wait WHAT?!” Jamie yelled out before he began rubbing his cheeks. “W-w-where?!”

“Here, I have a mirror.” Rarity offered, taking one out of her mane as she showed it to him as Jamie looks at his cheeks, seeing those heart shaped shield-like tattoos. It’s strange that Twilight’s cutie-mark is on the center of the tattoo, but the shaped of the shield looks like Cadance’s heart cutie-mark, and the sun marks has Celestia’s sun cutie-mark, and on the back on the shield is Luna’s moon cutie mark due to the full moon centered on it.

“W-what is this?” Jamie asked in shock. “Why…do I have something like this?”

“Oh yeah, never noticed that.” Jack said, taking a closer look on his face. “Damn…what’s up with those cutie-patootie marks on your faces?”

“You mean Cutie-Marks.” Carrie corrected. “But…where did they come from?”

“More importantly, why exactly does Jamie even have that?” Rantaro questioned. 

“Why?” Fluttershy asked in confusion.

“Can’t humans even get cutie-marks?” Pinkie Pie asked innocently.

“No, they can’t.” I shook my head before adding “Well…at least I don’t think so.”

“It would seem that something caused Sir Jamie Watson to have those…peculiar Cutie-Marks.” Princess Luna remarked, inspecting Jamie’s new cutie-marks. “Tell us, did anything strange happened?”


“W-well…” Jamie thought for a while before answering “Oh yes! I think I heard a voice!”

“A…voice?” Mason asked in surprise.

“Yes, something about ‘saving me’ and ‘I’m being one of the ones’ or something like that.” Jamie explained. “I’m not sure what it was, but I’m sure I heard a voice when we were fighting Queen Chrysalis.”

“That is quite indeed strange.” Princess Celestia thought aloud. 

“You know, it’s weird seeing those cutie-marks on your face like that, Jamie.” Kaede said, touching his cheeks a bit. “It’s like you gotten a tattoo.”

“Y-yeah…” Jamie nodded a bit.

“Well either way, I’m glad that’s over.” Shining sighed before turning to Cadance and apologized. 

“Listen Cadance…I’m sorry for what I did. Especially you Twily and Jamie. I just…I never mean to hurt your feelings.” Jamie and Twilight looked at each other for a while before smiling softly towards him.

“It’s alright Shining, we don’t blame you.” Twilight assured.

“Twilight’s right.” Jamie nodded. “We don’t blame you. If we have just had some evidence, we might’ve proved it but I guess we thought you guys would helped us because we believed in our friendship, and thanks to that, Chrysalis took that as an advantage to herself.”

In a flash, Jack punched him in the shoulder, making Jamie flinch.

“Just shaddup already nerd!” Jack exclaimed. “So what if she did?! We already gotten rid of that ugly cockroach, doesn’t mean that you have to keep blaming yourself.”

“Yeah, besides you got us!” Carrie said with a smile.

“I know.” Jamie smiled a bit while I patted him on the back with a grin.

“You know, I think you really improved dude.” Jamie looked at me in confusion, which caused me to chuckle. “I’m talking about how you’re not stuttering anymore. You’re speaking quite well.”

“O-oh? You think so?” Jamie asked, blushing a bit.

“Sure seems like it!” Rainbow Dash agreed before making a teasing smile at him. “But you know, who would’ve thought that a simple kiss from Twilight would make you brave?”

That gotten the two to blushed madly with embarrassed looks on their faces while Shining raised a brow and Cadance laughed at their reactions.

“You know, what Chrysalis said wasn’t a lie.” Cadance chuckled with a teasing smile. “These two have a strong bond, along with Ren and Fluttershy.”

“Well duh, they are dating.” Kodi pointed out, causing me and Fluttershy to blush as we shouted “Kodiak!”

That gotten everyone laughing as we began feeling joyful and gained a lot of good times in the aftermath of the battle for Canterlot. With that, it was all over. Canterlot was in peace, we all finally forgiven each other and reformed our friendships, and now that the REAL Cadance is back, we can go get something to eat, take a goodnight’s rest, and soon finally, the real Canterlot wedding will begin.

Meanwhile

Somewhere in the outlands of Equestria, Queen Chrysalis and the rest of the fallen Changelings were all groaning as they were badly injured from the blast. 

“Ugh…” Chryalis slowly began to regain consciousness before looking around the area. “No…No…NOOOOOO!”

The other Changelings covered their ears and whimpered in fear upon seeing their mother’s furious look.

“I was so close! I was so close on stealing all of their love until those humans ruined it!” Chrysalis shouted in agony. “GRRR! Where did I go so wrong?!”

“Because you were too overconfident in your abilities.” Chrysalis and the other Changelings looks back to see a familiar dark masked wearing figure appearing out of the shadows. 

“Void…” Chrysalis grimaced out of disgust.

“Because you were too arrogant and overconfident in your plans, you failed to see how powerful those humans such as Jamie Watson was. Thanks to you, you finally managed to unlock one of the keys to their secret power.” Void said, walking over and grabbed her by the throat with an irritated look. 

“A-AAH!” Chrysalis choked out. “H-how is this my fault? W-what power?”

“It doesn’t matter, you cretin!” Void scoffed, throwing her off a distance from where he stood. He looked away and muttered “Great…this is a problem. If I don’t get those Elements of Harmony along with that power those freaks took away, then I won’t be able to make this world see true hope like I did back then…”

“H-Hey!” Chrysalis gotten back up with an irritated scowl. “Answer me! What power are you talking about?!”

“….” Void became silent before sighing a little. “You keep your mouth shut. For now, I need to hurry. But then again…” 

He took out a small crystal-like shard as it was covered in darkness. 

“I must thank you again for what you did.” Void chuckled.

“What?” Chrysalis asked in confusion.

“Thanks to you, I gained enough darkness and negative emotions from those ponies gained during your little invasion, but this one mostly came from the bearers of the Elements of Harmony, along with those humans after their little fight.” 

Chrysalis widened her eyes in realization upon what Void was talking about as he crossed his arms and said “Heh heh, I guess what you seem that you lost hope, despair always has it ways to ruin that moment. Oh well, with this much power, I am able to search for the last one from there.”

“Y-you…you used me…” Chrysalis muttered in shock.

“So?” Void asked nonchalantly.

“You little! You used me!” Chrysalis exclaimed, bursting with anger. “After those files you left me after you took your leave, I thought you trusted me! Me and my beloved Changelings worked for days to practice transforming into those humans! But you…you!”

She retaliated by firing a powerful green fiery blast, only for it to be cut down. She widened her eyes as she was being threatened by Void, who held a dark scythe that was emanating from darkness before it disappeared.

“That was the point. I used you.” Void stated before turning away from her. “Besides…anyone would’ve done it. And you’re telling me that ‘I’ used ‘you’. How ironic considering that you were using your own Changelings with the Hive Mind.”

Chrysalis growled in anger as Void slowly began disappearing from the shadows. 

“I am done speaking with the likes of you. Goodbye…” 

With that, Void disappeared from the shadows as Chrysalis let out an angry scowl on her face.

“One day Void…you’ll be begging to come back to me…” She scoffed before taking something behind from her, revealing to be the ‘files’ Chrysalis stated that Void left her that one of her Changelings found in her palace. 

But on the front of the stack of files…had a picture of Ren, and on the other files were a picture of the other humans. Queen Chrysalis narrowed her eyes before her horn glowed and burned them into pieces.

“Hmph! I don’t need them anymore because I know one day…” Chrysalis looked over at the skies with an angry look on her face. 

“I WILL HAVE MY REVENGE!” She screamed in the air with a vengeful look on her face. It would seem that this won’t be the last time Ren and friends won’t see her again.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 57 - A Canterlot Wedding Disaster Part 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Previously on My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria

Holy cow! What the heck?! No offence, but...is that your true form?

W-what? Why is Shining...acting like that?

Ever since I took Cadance's place, I've been feeding off Shining Armor's love for her.

The Elements of Harmony...You must get to them...and use their power...to defeat the queen...

Trump cards?

Dammit! There's no end to these guys!

Hmph! I will...if you just bow down. 

Please...I know that isn't you. I know that you're still inside...because I believe in you. I know that you are still inside...!

Okay, who's the chick?

You know, it’s funny, really. Twilight and little Jamie here were suspicious of my behavior all along, including those other humans...but too bad the rest of you were too caught up in your wedding planning to realize those suspicions were correct!

Jamie...did this really happen?

Oh no..we...we didn't mean for that to happen!

Oh? So now you care? Or are you pretending to care for him just to further break his emotions even more?

I...I can't be brave like any of you...not Ren, not Jack, not Mason, no one but..myself.

After everything I went through…I realized that I wasn’t useles…I was helpful, and I was strong because of my determination to be strong. All because you guys showed it to me. You all…are my friends, and I’m glad to be your friend too! I’m glad to meet wonderful people and ponies like you all!

I’m…so glad to meet you Jamie….

Me too...Twilight...

You little brats! You all can’t just sit down and give up, do you?

Twilight’s right. You claimed that you and I are alike, but you’re wrong. You’re someone who loves to suffer pain on anyone you meet and manipulate, but I’m not you. I’m someone willing to help a friend and prove to you that our friendship is as magical as we claim!

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Just shaddup already nerd! So what if she did?! We already gotten rid of that ugly cockroach, doesn’t mean that you have to keep blaming yourself.

You know, what Chrysalis said wasn't a lie. These two have a strong bond.

I WILL HAVE MY REVENGE!



My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria


Well…this looks like a satisfying conclusion for us. It was already starting to turn into night time as the others and I were busy eating over by the table with the princesses, Cadance, and Shining Armor. Twilight and I were sitting next to each other, and of course…her brother was sitting on the left side of me. I felt nervous that every minute that he would give me a look of suspicion. 

“Man…” Jack sighed in relief with much food in his mouth. “I’ve been frigging starving since breakfast. Jeez…”

Jack patted his gut with deep satisfaction while Nicole eating her dinner properly while typing some things in her iPad.

“What are you doing?” Carrie asked Nicole with a curious look.

“Just writing some data.” Nicole answered, much to our confusion till I managed to figure out what she was doing.

“Umm…is it about the Changelings?” I asked curiously.

“….Something like that, I think.” You ‘think’? What’s up with that response?

“I see, so you’re studying them up.” Mason said, looking over her with a solemn look while feeding his pet squirrels. “Does it involve your psychological work?”

“Psychological work?” Cadance asked curiously. “So she’s a Psychologist?”

“Yeah, and she’s been on top researcher on the field of Analytical Psychology.” Twilight explained with a cheery smile. “Well, that’s what Jamie told me.”

“Oh really?” Shining looked at me with a raised brow. “So tell me, how long have you been friends with my sister?”

“U-U-Umm…” I blushed and looked away. “S-Several months ago….I’ve been her co-worker as a librarian over by the Golden Oaks library.”

“Shining…” Twilight rolled her eyes and gave her brother an amused grin. “Jamie and I are just friends. So what if we kiss? That doesn’t mean anything.”

At first, I would think that she didn’t really mean that. But it would seem like that she was trying to defend me.

“Really? You two kissing twice along with me and Cadance meant nothing?” Shining asked suspiciously.

“Come on Shining, just because Twilight’s your sister doesn’t mean you should keep treating her like a baby.” Princess Cadance chuckled.

“Well it’s understandable.” Mason spoke up. “If Carrie ever had a boy coming over to our home, then I would’ve most definitely give him a hard time for meeting someone my sister.”

That gotten a slight blush from Carrie as she exclaimed “B-big brother!”

“He’s not wrong.” Princess Celestia chuckled. “Hardly, I would done it too for my sister.”

“Tia!” Princess Luna pouted. “Must you say that?!”

“What? I’m just saying.” Princess Celestia chuckled before taking a bite of the rice ball. Apparently, this was all made by Mason since he was somehow fully healed thanks to that bright flash that occurred when we were defeating Queen Chrysalis and the rest of the Changelings. “Mm-hmm. I must say Mason, you are an astonishing cook.”

“It is my pleasure.” Mason smiled, bowing to her. “I have prepared many meals like an Italian omelet, buttermilk pancakes, and those who prefer Equestrian cuisine, I have prepared some hay salad and miso soup.”

“You know how to cook stuff from this world?” Rantaro asked with a raised brow.

“Indeed. Rarity allowed me to borrow her cook book once.” Mason replied.

“Quite.” Rarity agreed. “It was a little something I thought dear Mason should borrow in order to learn much more about Equestria’s diet. That way, we wouldn’t want another angry mob.”

“Angry mob?” Princess Cadance asked.

“It’s about the…umm…” Ren rubbed the back of his head with a worried look. “How we eat meat.”

“Ah, you are thou speaking about that incident.” Princess Luna grimaced with her eyes closed. “Yes, we are sorry to not interfere as soon as we can. We would love to help, but thou schedules was too much to handle, so we had no choice but to continue it.”

“So wait, you guys…eat meat?” Shining asked with widened eyes.

“Yeah…” Ren nodded. “But don’t worry…we swore to never eat it. Just…not in front of anyone.”

“Yes, they’re right.” Fluttershy nodded. “I mean, I once saw Jack eating meat and they explained the whole thing to me. I was so scared upon seeing them eat a piece of meat, but I understood why saying that it’s a way for humans to survive, and they are some who consist to only eating vegetables and other food who don’t eat called ‘vegetarians’.”

“Well that’s a relief.” Applejack sighed. “Well either way, glad that whole incident was over.”

“Yeah, everypony soon tried everything to forgive us.” Kaede explained with a awkward smile. “I mean…they kept offering us stuff and kept apologizing us, but we declined their offer and kept accepting their apologies.”

“It’s was getting annoying by the minute.” Jack scoffed.

“But still, I understand why when they nearly tried to hurt us.” Carrie explained with a cheery smile of hers. “But still, I wished we would have known Diamond Tiara would have done something like that.”

“Still though…” Princess Celestia smiled softly at us. “It was good that you all managed to convinced everypony that you aren’t as dangerous as you humans say. Me and Luna would have resolve that matter, but we had too many duties as princesses of Equestria.

“That explains a lot.” Rantaro scoffed, leaning against his chair. “You wasted our time with us getting nearly thrown out of town or worse. And you call yourself princesses.”

“Rantaro!” Kaede scolded.

“Hey! I will not have you tolerate the princesses like that!” Shining Armor exclaimed, glaring towards him. “I don’t know who you are, but I will not allow you to disrespect them like that.”

“So what? Royalty and monarchies barely exist in our world. Why should I bother to follow the rules here?” Rantaro asked annoyingly before tapping his head with his finger. “Just because we live in your world doesn’t mean that none of us are gonna follow your rules. Besides, why should I bother with any of you? After getting to know this place under my own free will, I guess you guys are so more gullible and stupid than any of my clients back then.”

That seemed to gotten some of the ponies ticked off by that remark Rantaro made.

“Hey! Don’t pass the buck to us!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. 

“Rainbow Dash is right! Don’t compare us to her criminal fiends you call ‘clients’!” Rarity added, glaring straight towards Rantaro. Shining and Cadance widened their eyes upon learning this type of information about Rantaro as they both exclaimed “Wait what?!”

“Yeah…apparently, he’s a broker, but in a good way.” Mason explained with a sigh. “He’s fully known in the underworld society, and I don’t literally mean that way in your terms. I meant it in a place where people back in our world sells and buy things off the black market.”

“Yes, I have heard rumors of his work.” I spoke up before glancing towards him, who looked at me with an annoyed look. “He was known for buying and selling things on his own chagrin whenever he feels like, and he’ll do things under the price.”

“And he’s a dirty-money grabber and an expert on gambling.” Jack huffed, placing his feet on the table. “I’ve heard from a few pals of mine that they lost all of their insurance from some weasel wearing a fedora and had a raccoon by his side. The moment I found this bumbling idiot…” Jack gave a death glare towards Rantaro, who gave off a cocky smirk towards him. “I knew the instant that he was the one.”

“So what if I did beat your men? It’s not my fault they suck at playing blackjack.” Rantaro shrugged.

“Blackjack? But Jack isn’t black, right?” Pinkie asked curiously.

“Not that!” Jack exclaimed angrily. “It’s some crappy gambling game the boys and I played.”

“So our friend here is not only a criminal, but also a gambler as well?” Shining Armor narrowed his eyes before turning to Mason and asked “And you’re okay with this?!”

“…Forgive me Shining Armor.” Mason apologized. “But…we’ve endured how much he’s been around. But mostly, he prefers to be left alone along with Nicole.”

“It’s true.” Ren nodded in agreement, rubbing his cheek in embarrassment. “We’ve tried to get him to hang out with us, but he’s too stubborn to even listen to us. In fact, he said that we weren’t friends yet, but I just hope he will.”

“Really? Be friends with ‘me’?” Rantaro asked with a raised brow. “Wow, either you’re stupid or too friendly to be friends with a guy like me? Didn’t anyone tell you to never be friends with criminals such as me?”

“I know…” Ren nodded with a soft embarrassed smile. “But still, it wouldn’t hurt to try but to share a little kindness to ya. I mean, why else did you help us?”

“I was fighting for my life.” Rantaro answered, looking away from him. “I was trying to survive my way out of that crazy invasion.”

“But…Ren does have a point.” We all turned to Fluttershy across the dining room table, who let out a ‘EEK’ before looking away nervously from our gazes. “W-well…it’s just that…if you didn’t want to help or even care any of us, then…why did you shock Chrysalis?”

“…..” Rantaro went silent, looking away before tilting his fedora a bit. 

“Hey, Fluttershy’s right!” Pinkie nodded before gushing over at Rantaro with a bright grin. “Aww! You do care, Ran! I knew that you were a lovable guy from the inside!”

“Shut up…she was just annoying me.” Rantaro scoffed. “I’m sure any of you would’ve done the same.”

“Either way, that was nice of you to do that for us!” Carrie thanked with a smile. “Thank you Ran!”

Rantaro looked away with an annoyed look before giving out an exasperated sigh “God, you all are so petty annoying me.”

He sat down with his left leg crossed and leaning against his right arm with a bored look, which went unnoticed for both Princess Celestia and Luna as they both let out small gasps. He looks over at them with an annoyed look and asks “What?”

“…S-Sorry for us staring at you.” Princess Celestia apologized while I blinked in confusion.

What was going on with them? It was like they saw something through Rantaro, but what?

“So what now?” Kaede wondered aloud. “Now that Queen Chrysalis and the Changelings are gone, what about the wedding?”

“Don’t worry.” Princess Celestia assured with a gentle smile. “The Royal Guard are already calming the citizens while freeing those who were trapped by the Changeling’s slime.”

“Ugh…!” Rarity irked upon hearing that. “Just hearing or thinking about it just gives me the shivers.”

“Oh man up already, loon.” Jack scoffed, ignoring the angry glare from said ‘loon’.

“Don’t worry, we’re cleaning up the damages off of Canterlot.” Princess Celestia explained. “We’ll be sure to get the wedding started tomorrow afternoon.”

“That’s a relief…” Cadance sighed before taking a bite of a tray filled with hay cakes, much to our shock and bewilderment. She noticed us staring right from where she was sitting before as she asked “What? I’ve been trapped in those mines for days! I deserve something to eat!”

“B-but still…I-I think it’s rude to eat like that.” I pointed out nervously.

“Whatever nerd! She’s speaking my language!” Jack laughed before he started chowing down on the food.

“J-Jack! Slow down! Save some for me dude!” Rainbow Dash laughed before she began chowing down the food.

“Hold it!” We all stopped as we looked over at Pinkie, who raised her hoof in front of Jack and Rainbow Dash in a very weird pose. “You all can’t eat off all that food the princess made!”

Huh? Is…Pinkie Pie actually learning responsibility for once? I guess maybe despite her…randomness, I guess that-

“Without me, silly!” No, never mind. She’s the same careless Pinkie Pie we all know and love. Pinkie Pie immediately began gorging on the food while Jack and Rainbow Dash looked at each other before shrugging and began eating, much to some of our amusement and disgust.

“Slow down, you three.” Mason said sternly. “Keep eating up like that and you three could possibly choke on your food.”

“Oh shaddup!” Jack exclaimed, his mouth stuffed with desserts before he continued to eat down on the food.

“Ugh, honestly…why do I even bother?” Mason asked himself as he shook his head with a deadpan look.

“You know…you seem quite good at doing stuff like this, huh Mason?” Shining asked curiously with a soft smile. “You know…I’ve heard from Princess Celestia that you were known for being a bodyguard of some princess of yours back in your world, right?”

Mason went silent for a moment, but before he could say anything, Carrie beaten him to it.

“Yep! Big sis Elena and Big brother are always in love with each other and that he’s always there for her whenever she’s in distress.” Carrie explained with a bright grin, making Mason blush. “He’s always there for those who are trouble, even me from danger. He’s very strong!”

“C-Carrie…” Mason cleared his throat before turning to Shining Armor. “W-well yes, Shining Armor. I am strong, but I wasn’t strong enough to defeat Queen Chrysalis. She was a worthwhile opponent capable of transforming into many people, even us.”

“Yeah, and that’s what got me thinking…” Twilight spoke, rubbing her chin in thought. “Why…did she transformed into that girl? I think Carrie shouted that it was ‘Elena’, right?”

“Oh that’s right!” Carrie widened her eyes in surprise. “That bug queen somehow knew to transform into us, along with the other Changelings.”

“Though…it is weird for her to transform into us and into Elena.” Kaede added. “It’s just…so strange that I can’t help but think about it. It’s like she almost knows everything about that.”

“Yeah, that’s right…” I nodded, covering my mouth as I was in deep thought. How did Queen Chrysalis and her Changelings transformed into us? More importantly, how…does she know about Elena? We live in different worlds, don’t we? It’s just so…confusing that I can’t help but feel like it’s so strange.

“Still though…” Mason gritted his teeth a bit with a darkened look on his face. “I was too weak to even fight back. I couldn’t fight Chrysalis because of how she transformed into Elena.”

“I get it…” Ren looked down with a sadden look. “You couldn’t fight her because of how much you care for us…”

“Yes…” Mason sighed. “I…I just don’t know what to do. If it was myself, that’ll be alright. But if it was any of you…then I can’t do it…” He then turned to us with an apologetic look and bowed. “Please forgive me everyone for not defeating Chrysalis for you all.”

“Well no one is blaming ya, Mason.” We all turned to Ren as he gave us a soft grin. “I mean, it’s understandable why you couldn’t fight her if she transformed into Elena or any of us. It shows that you care for us all and are willing to protect us from harm, even Elena. You were always willing to protect us like how you saved me and Spike from that rogue dragon when Spike was feeling down…”

“Please don’t remind me of that…” Spike groaned before sighing “But you do have a point there, Ren.”

“Exactly!” Ren grinned before placing a hand on Mason’s left shoulder. “In my opinion, you’re a great friend.”

Mason couldn’t help but smile at Ren at his compliment and said “Well…thank you. I appreciate your well-being, Ren.”

“Yeah…” I nodded with a soft smile. “You’re really great and strong, I mean you’re practically like our motivator and leader of the group.”

“Leader?” Ren asked in surprise before rubbing his cheek in embarrassment. “T-that’s a little embarrassing…Mason’s more of a leader than I do.”

“But still, you keep encouraging us and always cheer us on.” Carrie pointed out.

“They’re right. Despite you being average and keep playing video games and such, you always support us to the end.” Kaede stated. “I think you’re like a cool leader.”

“Meh, the kid got guts.” Jack grinned. “I like it.”

“Give him some weird badge that says ‘I am the leader’ and then maybe I’ll accept him as a leader.” Rantaro rolled his eyes.

“You got it, Ran!” Pinkie took out a pink badge that says ‘I am the leader’ on it before placing it on Ren’s sweater chest, much to his embarrassment and Rantaro’s slightly shocked look.

“…Never mind.” Rantaro scoffed before he got up and began walking off, much to our surprise.

“Where do you think you’re going?” Applejack questioned with a raised brow. 

“Wherever I want to. I don’t need any of you guys to bother me.” Rantaro scoffed before he exited out of the Dining Hall. 

Rantaro Wilde is quite what they say about him from the rumors. A man who doesn’t like wasting time interacting with other people. He just wants is simple cash that motivates him, and doesn’t care about what he buys or sells the items off the blackmarket list as long he gets paid. But…he seems to at least acknowledged the economy system back when he managed to trick the Flim Flam Brothers from trying to outright get Sweet Apple Acres out of business.

“That man is nothing but trouble.” Rarity scoffed. “I still don’t get why a man like him would even be here in Equestria from that pod?”

“As much as I hate to disagree Miss Rarity, but I know for sure that he came out of the pod since the sixth and seventh pod that he and Jack came out.” Mason sighed.

“You sure know how to stay calm whenever he tries to put pressure on ya.” Shining said with an amused smile.

“I learned how to stay calm most of the times.” Mason replied with a sigh. “That’s one of the perks of being a bodyguard.”

“A bodyguard? You mean for Elena, right?” Cadance asked curiously, which Mason nodded. Cadance let out an amazed smile before continuing “Ha ha! That’s so amazing Mason! I never thought of you as a bodyguard for royalty the moment I first you! Especially of the outfit you’re wearing.”

“Huh?” Mason looked over at his clothes, causing him to frown a bit. “Yeah…Elena thought that I should wear it in order to make sure enemies of the royal family won’t know that I ain’t a bodyguard for her by wearing what bodyguards should wear.”

“I…guess that is reasonable.” Twilight stated with a sweat-drop.

“You know, you seemed pretty capable.” Shining chuckled. “I wouldn’t be surprise if you became a part of the Royal Guard.”

The moment he said that, we all looked at him in surprise and shock, including Mason himself.

“Really?” Mason asked. “Me? A part of the Royal Guard?”

“That shouldn’t be a surprise, Mason darling.” Rarity chuckled. “I mean, you are pretty helpful after all what with your cooking, loyalty, and strength. Why you even saved me a few times while also reconnecting with your sister and Sweetie Belle.”

“I-I suppose that is true, but…” Mason sighed. “Sorry….I guess I was just having some doubts to my credibility.”

“Don’t feel bad big brother, I still think you’re one of the strongest around here.” Carrie assured with a cheerful smile, which made Mason chuckle before giving his sister a noogie.

“Thanks sis!” Mason laughed, making her and the rest of us chuckle at the scene.

“Well I can arrange for that to happen.” Huh? We looked over to Princess Celestia, who held a smile on her face. “I mean, it is up to you Mason Hunter if you wished to train over by the Equestrian Royal Guard Academy to become one. That way, you might learned a few things about being more strong than you think.”

“Huh? That’s something to take.” Jack grinned. 

“Yeah! I mean, you could be the first human Royal Guard!” Cadance encouraged.

“Yeah…” I nodded with a soft smile. “I mean…you already trained yourself as a bodyguard in our world, so I’m sure the training may slightly be similar to ours, but I still think you have a chance.”


“Seems so.” Kaede nodded before giving Mason a happy smile. “But you’re right! I think you have a chance Mason!”

“W-well…” Mason looked down with a sigh. “Are you sure? I mean…how long does the training takes?”

“No worries. The training just takes six months to complete till graduation.” Shining punched his shoulder lightly with an amused smile. “I’m sure you can handle it.”

“True…” Mason looked over at Carrie and Rarity. “But..what about you guys? I know that you two might depend on me.”

“Mason darling, it’s alright.” Rarity assured with a soft grin. “I know that you can do this. After all, we aren’t forcing you to do this. In fact, this is your decision alone. You can’t always ask us for permission because you are you. Sure, you may true to yourself and keep protecting those you love.”

“Yeah big brother!” Carrie nodded. “I mean, I know how to take care of myself and all that because I’ve seen you how you do things. I can take care of Nate and Maddy for you while you train yourself.” Carrie fidgeted her fingers around a bit. “Well…that is if you want to accept to go.”

“Though will they accept you?” Fluttershy wondered. 

“Yeah, I mean you ain’t a pony, after all.” Applejack pointed out.

“No need to worry.” Shining assured with a confident smirk on his face. “As Captain of the Royal Guard, I practically train the new recruits.”

“Oh, well that’s a relief.” Ren chuckled with a smile. “I mean, if it’s with Shining then I totally trust him. But I bet the training will be intense due to the recruits gonna be…ponies.”

“Well I’m sure Masey can do it!” Pinkie grinned happily. “I mean, I bet he’ll be as strong as Jamie!”

“M-me?!” I asked in surprise.

“Well yeah!” Pinkie nodded as she turned to me and continued “If you and Twilight didn’t used your awesome super nova powers then we all would’ve been turned into lovey bug food!”

I let out a sweat-dropped and chuckled nervously. I wouldn’t call what we just used a ‘super nova power’.

“W-well….” Mason looked away for a while, thinking about whether or not he should attend to the Royal Guard Military Academy for six whole months of training till he graduates and practically becomes the first human Royal Guard in this world’s history. 

“…I think it’s best if you could just give me enough time to just think about it.” Mason answered with a soft smile. “I mean…you guys are throwing this off for me, so maybe I need more time to just think about it.”

Princess Celestia closed her eyes for a while before she slowly nod and replied “Very well. If that is what you wish, Mason.”

“Well even so, I know that you’ll make the right choice.” Shining Armor assured, smiling over at Mason. “If you finally made a decision, just let me know alright?”

Mason smiled over at him and nodded. Hmm, to think Mason would become a member of the Royal Guard. Well, I guess it’s possible now that we are living here in Equestria after waking up in those pods. I wonder…

“Speaking about which…Sir Jamie.” Huh? I turned to Princess Luna who was inspecting me with a curious look. “Why is thou…have those Cutie-Marks on your cheeks? It doesn’t make any sense why you would gain them considering that you say that your kind cannot gained them.”

“O-Oh…that is a good question.” I thought for a while, trying to figure out what’s the deal with that. “Why did this even appeared? I…just don’t understand that.”

“It sure is strange.” Applejack stated. “I mean, I thought you all said that humans can’t even have Cutie-Marks?”

“Because that’s so impossible to do.” Kaede stated. “I mean, if it was a tattoo, I would get but…for it to appear out of nowhere during our confrontation with Chrysalis, it’s just so weird.”

“Indeed.” Princess Celestia agreed. “I believe that this is the result of some secret that’s hidden deep within in your hearts.”

“Huh? Really?” I asked curiously. “A…secret hidden deep within in our hearts?”

“The hell’s that supposed to mean?” Jack questioned.

“I think Aunt Tia means that you guys might have some sort of mysterious power that you don’t know about it.” I looked over at Cadance in surprise before placing a hand on my chest. A…hidden power deep within my heart? And it’s something that I don’t know about? Well…that’s sound ridiculous at first glance because we lived in an entirely different world than theirs, but…if what she said is the truth then maybe…it could be a possibility. 

“Well, maybe it’s true.” Ren shrugged. “But man, a power within us all? Is that even possible? This sounds like something from Kingdom Hearts.”

“Is that some sort of video game?” Kodiak asked, which Ren nodded.

“Well of course! I am an expert on that subject.” Ren winked.

“So…is this power related to Jamie’s new Cutie-Marks on his cheeks?” Fluttershy asked Princess Celestia and Luna with a curious look.

“Well…we are not sure.” Princess Celestia replied with an unsure look.

“It’s best if I ventured deep within their dreams and figure that out thyself.” Princess Luna suggested. “It might take a while, but surely that might help recover some of your memories in the process.”

“Wait…what the hell do ya mean?” Jack questioned with a raised brow and crossed arms. “Ventured deep within our dreams or some crap?”

“She means that she can explore our dreams.” Rarity explained.

“Yep yep yep!” Pinkie nodded, appearing out of Jack’s shirt as it shocked him greatly. “She can go into your dreams, fight off your worst nightmares and make you sleep like a baby!”

“What the?! Get out of there, you brat!” Jack demanded, picking Pinkie by the mane.

“Tee-hee! Stop that! That tickles!” Pinkie giggled.

“Calm down, you two.” Mason said, intervening into their conversation. “Right now, we should probably keep this in mind when Princess Luna explores our dreams and recovers more of our lost memories.”

“So wait, what do ya mean lost memories?” Jack asked irritably before shoving Pinkie away. “I didn’t even forget anything.”

“Well…Mason meant memories on how we even got in those pods in the first place.” Ren explained before rubbing his cheek. “But I get why you wouldn’t believe it, dude. I mean, our situation is just getting way more confusing than usual.”

“Yeah…” I nodded. “I-I mean…I’ve been slightly remembering some things.”

“Me too, but not that much.” Kaede sighed. “I wonder just what’s been happening in our world.”

“Well I hope it’s nothing too serious, that’s for sure.” Rarity hoped. 

“Well, that’s enough speaking about that.” Princess Celestia gently smiled at us. “In the meantime, we all should probably finished up eating up our dinner and head to bed. In the meantime…” She turned to me and Twilight and said “Twilight, Jamie, I thought that maybe you two would like to resume with your jobs as the overseers of the wedding’s preparation.”

“Huh? You…want us to continue taking a look over the preparations for Shining Armor and Princess Cadance’s wedding?” I asked in surprise before feeling a bit sadden upon remembering much from earlier on when we arrived to Canterlot. “A-Are you sure?”

“I’ll admit, it was our mistake for not realizing that the ‘Cadance’ we’ve been talking for a while was nothing more than a mere imposter.” Princess Celestia sighed sadly, looking away. “And I was a fool to just abandoned my faithful student like that. I…I just hope you can forgive us all.”

“But Princess Celestia, we already had forgiven you.” Twilight stated, much to the princess’s surprise and confusion. Twilight looks down with a sad smile as she continued “Well…it’s just that we could never blame you for why you all would left us like that because you guys were too focused on the wedding, and what my brother said to me was right. I guess I was being a little bit too possessive.”

“Same here.” I nodded, looking down and clutching onto my pants. “I mean…I was a fool to even try convince everyone that was actually Chrysalis disguising herself as Princess Cadance since I didn’t have any evidence and I thought they might trust me since they always knew that I wasn’t lying, but…I guess I never suspected this.”

“Yeah, we should have listened Jamie.” Applejack apologized. “We should have know that you wouldn’t make something up.”

“And no offense, you…aren’t good at telling jokes.” Kaede remarked with an awkward smile, causing me to sweat-drop a little. W-well…I can’t say that she isn’t wrong.

“And we were too harsh on both you and Twilight.” Rarity said sadly. “And thanks to that, we…we all….”

I think I know what Rarity is trying to say. After all, I would know this too because…I tried to kill myself. The moment Queen Chrysalis showed us clips of stuff that she saw herself watching me about to fall off the balcony, I’ve been trying to forget about that scene. I just…don’t know what to do anymore.

“Yeah, it was terrible.” Fluttershy sniffled a bit. “If we just listened to you, then maybe we could stop you from trying to…” 

She stopped herself, not wanting to say another word.

“Hey come on Flutters, what’s done is done.” Ren assured with a soft and nervous grin. “I mean…we saved his life and managed to encourage him to keep being headstrong, and thanks to that, he and Twilight along with Shining and Cadance defeated the Changelings and saved all of Equestria from their little invasion here in Canterlot.”

“Ren’s right.” Kaede nodded with a chuckle. “You guys were awesome out there. Though, I’m still surprise that Jamie would have kissed Twilight like that.”

“Y-y-yeah…” I blushed a bit and I swore that I saw Twilight blushing as well. 

“So…when’s the honeymoon?” My blushing increased dramatically, possibly turning my face into the color of a tomato as I glared over at Jack’s grinning face.

“Tee-hee! You two are quite lovely together!” Princess Cadance chuckled. “I mean, you two seemed to have a close connection with each other, almost similar to me and Shining.”

“R-Really?” I asked in mild surprise. “T-that close to yours?”

“Yep, and I can easily tell with my ability to sense love in pony and another.” Princess Cadance explained. “I know that you have a strong connection with Twilight and yet you’ve been here for several months?”

“Y-yes…” I nodded. “Well…it’s just that…she’s somepony that I admire because she loves literature, reading through and observing key details, and sometimes we have our panic moments when we come across something that makes us antsy.”

“Ooookay, didn’t need you to go that far.” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes.

“No, Jamie is right.” Twilight smiled softly. “I mean, we practically do overact a lot, but we tend to overcome them and thanks to that, our bonds with each other grew deeper.”

“Yes, that’s right.” I smiled a bit before I frowned sadly. “But you know…don’t you think maybe it’s too soon to go through that?”

“Huh? What do you mean?” Twilight asked in confusion.

“W-well…it’s just that I don’t want to be rude…umm…” I sighed, rubbing my arm before turning to her. “I just…feel weird. I mean, is this how Ren and Fluttershy did it?”

“Well yeah.” Ren shrugged. “I mean, Twilight told me that she had a crush but gave that out as a phase.”

“Wait what?!” I asked, alarmed to hear that. This is the first time I’m hearing about this!

I immediately turned to Twilight, who blushed a bit before replying “I-It was just one time, but I know that it’s nothing!”

“Oh, we didn’t mean to make you so upset you guys.” Fluttershy apologized. “But Jamie…it’s okay. I mean, when I saw how encouraging and supporting and sweet Ren was, I just couldn’t bottled up these emotions I had inside of my heart. But most of all, I liked Ren for being someone anyone can trust. I’m sure you thought the same thing when being around Twilight.”

“W-well…” I closed my eyes for a while before letting out a sigh. “Y-yeah…I do. Because Twilight is like me, loves to read books, very powerful and wise when she uses her magic, and she’s very intelligent and leader-like. She’s like me in a way, excluding the leader-like attitude. But…I just can’t but admire her…”

“Jamie…” Twilight turned to me with a soft smile. “I never knew that you thought of me like that.”

“Y-yeah…I felt embarrassed to mention it. I…I just thought maybe it was ridiculous, especially for a guy like me to date a mare like you.” I sighed sadly. “I mean…I never experienced love in a way like Ren once said, I never had a single friend in my life because people treated me with cruel things to say.” I gritted my teeth, my face turning a bit painful just remembering the times when I was bullied. “I started to distrust people in my days, but not before somehow arriving in your world and meeting you guys. To be honest, I thought you guys were just gonna treat me cruelly and/or using me and throwing me away because of my family’s fortune, but after being around here…I learned that it wasn’t a lie nor it was a mistake being here. I’m…really glad being here.”

“And I’m glad to met a wonderful human like you.” Twilight chuckled. “I hope that one day that we can strengthen our bonds together.”

Me too Twilight. We may live in two completely different worlds, but we share the same heart together. I felt like my bond with Twilight was strengthen a little bit deeper after what we went through from that invasion.

“Huh? Family fortune?” Cadance asked curiously.

“Oh! James’ family is super rich, almost rich as Princess Celestia and Luna’s fortunes!” Pinkie answered. “I bet Jamie’s family’s fortune is so huge that you could swim around it from a diveboard!”

I let out a sweat-drop and retorted “But…that’s ridiculous. I don’t think anyone would have done it.”

“Yeah, and why did you suddenly make a Ducktales reference?” Ren stated, causing some of us to give him weird looks. “What? I’m just saying since I’ve watched the classic and reboot version of it.”

“Anyway…” Twilight turned to me with a smile. “Jamie, I’m really glad that you think of that and I’m sorry on what you had to endured.” She held my hoof and continued “I know what it’s like to be alone. To be honest, I was always so focused on my studies that I never bothered to make any friends. I always missed the opportunities to do so and hang out with others. I never let it bothered me till I came to Ponyville and met you all…” She turned to the rest of her friends, who gave her encouraging smiles to continue. “I thought of the stuff I could have done with the other ponies back here in Canterlot…but I guess I was too narrow-minded into becoming a great mage like Princess Celestia.”

I looked at her with a sympathetic look before saying “I guess the both of us had different situations, but similar problems trying to fit in with society, huh?”

“I guess in a way.” Twilight chuckled. “You know…if we ever started a relationship, I wouldn’t be prepared for it. I need to do some catch-up reading to learn about it.”

“Yeah, same here.” I smiled a bit. “Why not we both learned about it when we get back to Ponyville?”

Twilight nodded before we shook our hands/hooves together. I noticed the others giving us smirks and Shining Armor giving me a raised brow. I turned to him with a nervous look and said “S-Shining Armor…I understand that you hate me because of what I did…I’m sorry.”

“….Who said anything that I hated you?” Huh? Shining gave me a comforting smile while I looked at him in bewilderment. “I was just pretty suspicious and shocked myself that you would kiss my sister like that. But still though, I never said anything about disliking or hating you Jamie. I mean, after hearing all much of what you’ve been through and how much you’ve been with your friends and my sister, I realized that you’re someone that I can trust.”

“R-Really?” I asked in surprise.

“Yep. If my sister trusts you, then I can trust you as well.” Shining smiled before it started to turn slyly. “But…if you’re planning to marry my sister, then we can always have a double wedding.”

“Shining!” Twilight exclaimed, blushing madly along with me. W-w-w-what?! Marry Twilight?! Even after we revealed our feelings just today?! Is he serious right now?! 

“Tee-hee! I wouldn’t be surprise that you two did get married alongside us!” Cadance chuckled with a teasing grin. “I mean, I’m sure your parents would be shocked Twilight.”

“They would…” Twilight nodded with a meek smile before chuckling to herself and turning to me. “But don’t worry Jamie, they’re really nice ponies.”

“Y-yeah, I figured…” I chuckled with a nervous smile. 

“So anyway, we’re gonna resume the wedding tomorrow right?” Kaede asked curiously before chuckling. “Ha ha! I bet now that me and Rarity can make a great wedding dress for the real Cadance!”

“Aww, that’s so nice of you two to do that for me.” Cadance chuckled.

“Don’t worry Cadance! Me and Kaede will worked all night to redesign the dress into your liking, right Kaede?” Rarity asked with a hopeful smile.

“You bet!” Kaede nodded. “Well I didn’t like the way the dress we made for Chrysalis when she disguised herself as Cadance because it didn’t have this good aura that’s befitting for the person or pony for themselves. Well…it was Chrysalis, so that figures…”

“Tch! Glad that cockroach is out of our sight.” Jack scoffed, finishing up eating a triple hay sandwich.

“True.” I sighed. “Hopefully we may not see her for a while.”

“Yes, quite true.” Princess Luna nodded with a solemn look on her face. “Our guards are looking around the city for any more of her or her Changelings.”

“I’m glad it’s all over…” Carrie sighed in relief. “Do you…think those scary bugs are gone for good, you guys?”

“I don’t know.” Kodi shrugged before turning to Ren with a worried look. “What do you think Ren?”

“Beats me.” Ren shrugged. “But man, those guys sure are tough especially how they transformed into us. They’re quite good.”

“Too good if you ask me.” Rainbow Dash sighed. “Still though, it’s surprising how they could transform into you guys.”

“Yes…” Mason nodded, looking away for a while with his arms crossed. “I still don’t know how they could do that, especially transforming into…Elena, but I’m sure that we’ll find out soon enough.”

“Yeah, we just need to relax and stay confident.” Ren agreed with a grin. “But you know, I wished those guys didn’t have to do that.”

“What do you mean?” Applejack asked in confusion.

“I mean…Chrysalis said that she just wanted love, right? She and the others were discriminated by the other ponies because of their looks and how freaky looking they were.” Ren explained, feeling a bit sadden. “I mean…I can understand their motives why. But…I just wished we could have talk this out.”

“I feel the same way, Ren…” Princess Celestia nodded solemnly. “But…I’m afraid words won’t seemed to work on her.”

“And besides, why defend her?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “She ruined everything! Our friendship! The wedding! You can name it! They’re just dirty love stealing monsters!”

“See that? Right there is the result.” Ren stated, much to Rainbow Dash’s confusion. “I mean, we’re talking bad about them and it’s just not right. What if we knew something more about them than we already let on. I just wished there was another reason to convince them all that we can’t always fight.”

“I think so too Ren.” Fluttershy nodded before sighing sadly. “I mean, all that fighting was so bad. I thought that maybe we could have talk things thoroughly, but this had to happen…”

“I know…” Ren nodded firmly. “Oh well, there’s nothing we can do now. But I have a feeling that someday we’ll see each other again.”

“What makes ya say that?” Applejack asked.

“Well obviously. Everyone knows that the bad guys always come back and try to use another evil plan to achieve their goals.” Pinkie explained, popping right near Applejack from the other side of the dining room table. “They’re like that trio that always gotta catch that cute mouse!”

“Umm…What cute mouse?” I asked with a raised brow.

“Oh you know, Pika-”

“Don’t say it!” Ren exclaimed, pointing his finger at her. Pinkie stuck her tongue out at Ren while the rest of us just chuckled or held amused smiles on our faces.

“Well either way, I say that’s it getting late…” Princess Celestia pointed out. “I think it’s time to head to sleep.”

“Oh?” Hm? We all turned to see Nicole slowly waking up with a tired look on her face. “Are we done eating dinner?”

“You were asleep?!” Carrie asked in surprise.

“How did we not noticed that?” Kodi wondered, which made the rest of us shrugged.

“I wasn’t sleeping…” Nicole rubbed her eyes before letting out a yawn.

“Yes you were!” Ren exclaimed. 

“Sorry.” Nicole yawned. “For now, I just wanna go back to my room and get some sleep.”

“Well alright Nicole, it’s your decision, not ours.” Twilight nodded as Nicole gotten out of the table and took her leave.

“Oh yeah! Nicole!” Ren got out of the table and walked over to her with a curious look. “I was wondering on how you gotten to those abandoned mines in the first place?”

“….I’m sorry, it’s a secret.” Huh? We all became confused and bewildered by that response of hers. What does she mean that it’s a secret?

“Wait what?” Twilight asked. “But wait! We need to know!”

“I can’t.” Nicole said, her tone sounded stern. “If I told ya, you all would probably…wouldn’t understand.”

“Sure we can.” Applejack replied. “We-”

“But you all never understood Mr. Jamie and Ms. Twilight from their reasoning's despite it being the truth of the Cadance we all spent time with each other was a fraud.” The moment she said, we all looked at each other in shame and guilt. She must’ve felt that as she sighed and continued “I’m very sorry for bringing that up. I’m just worried that you all might not be able to understand what I may have to tell you.”

“We’ll understand Nicole.” Mason assured with a stern look. “It’s not very good to keep secrets with us.”

“Mason’s right.” Ren nodded. “If we’re gonna trust each other, we can’t hold back information. I mean, that’s what friends do.”

“You really think of me…as a friend?” Nicole asked, her eyes widened a bit.

“Well of course. Sure we’re different by age and height, but I know that we’re good friends and we stick together, no matter what.” Ren stated with a determined look. Nicole stared at him for a while before looking over her tablet with…a small blush?

“I-I don’t know what you’re talking about…” Nicole replied shyly. “A-Anyway…I guess I can tell you guys a little why.”

“Huh? You can?!” Pinkie asked excitedly. “Yay! Story time! Story time!”

“C-Calm down Pinkie Pie, let Nicole speak.” Kaede chuckled nervously.

“Sorry!” Pinkie apologized with a sheepish grin.

“So anyway…” Nicole cleared her throat and began her little explanation. “You see, I knew who Queen Chrysalis was underneath that false disguise of her as Cadance.”

…..Huh? We all simply stared at her in shock, trying to process our thoughts on what she said.

“Wait…you mean you knew who she was when disguised as Cadance?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Yes, I was able to hear that tone of voice of hers.” Nicole continued on with her explanation. “You see, when me, Rantaro, and Pinkie were in the party room, I discovered that the Cadance we all met was a fake because it didn’t sound like she was really excited for all the stuff we were doing, and obviously that she seemed to develop a strong hating to us despite we knowing each other for the first time. That’s when I realized that it wasn’t the real Cadance just by looking at her.”

“Wait…what?!” Shining exclaimed in shock. “You can tell just by hearing her voice and what her personality was, including what she looked like?!”

“I see now…” I said, rubbing my chin in thought. “I think somehow Queen Chrysalis realized that you were starting to unravel her true identity.”

“That might be it.” Twilight nodded. “I mean, her psychology skills are-”

“Quite amazing, I know.” Nicole nodded.

“Nikki…why didn’t you tell us this?” Carrie asked. 

“Yeah!” Kodiak nodded. “I mean, I don’t think it’s nice to-”

“Keep info away from you guys like that? Yeah, I know.” Nicole cut him off before walking over and scratching him by the chin, causing him to wag his tail happily as she makes a soft smile at him before turning back to us with a frown. “It was just that…would you not believe me like you did for Twilight and Jamie?”

That question might’ve hit its mark because we all stared each other in shame and guilt.

“Exactly my point.” Nicole nodded. “I don’t like to be rude or mean, but…I was afraid you guys might have turned on me as well.”

“Nicole…” Kaede muttered in worried.

“…” Nicole stayed silent before sighing and furrowing her brows at us. “I know…I didn’t mean to make you guys all like this. I am sorry if I am causing you all so much guilt. It is uncalled of me as a psychologist.” 

“No Nikki, it’s not your fault.” Ren assured with an apologetic smile. “I mean, the girls learned their lesson on never ever ditching a friend like that when they’re grieving so much like what me and the gang saw and tried to help them.”

“It’s understandable.” Nicole stated, cleaning off her glasses with her glasses cloth. “I mean…I should have at least told you. I’m sorry you all went through so much trouble…”

We all looked back at her with worried and sadden yet guilty looks on our faces.

“You don’t have to apologize, Nicole. It’s not your fault.” I said with a worried look. “You had your reasons and we understand them that it was your decision.”

“We didn’t mean to make you distrust us all.” Fluttershy apologized sadly. “I feel so awful to make you not trust us at all.”

“It’s okay.” Nicole replied. 

“Well still…” I gave her a small smile and said “We’ll likely try to remember this event. That way, we should always have faith in what our friends say. Isn’t that what…a good enough lesson?”

“Indeed Jamie.” Princess Celestia nodded. “Could to elaborate more?”

“O-Oh! Sure!” I nodded as I looked over at Twilight, who gave me an encouraging smile as I let out a smile as well and said “Well…I just thought that after this whole experience that maybe it’s not best to just judge something like there’s nothing wrong at all. When someone or somepony says something that nopony else believes them, well…I think it’s best if a friend just have faith in their words. They may not have proof or could be exaggerating, but…I still think its best if we take their word for now and try to have faith in them till it’s either true or not.”

“An excellent lesson, Sir Jamie.” Princess Luna complimented. “It is indeed a lesson we’ll always remember.”

“Yeah.” Shining Armor nodded before giving me an apologetic smile. “Oh yeah…sorry for what I said back there. I didn’t mean all of those what I said.”

“No no, it’s alright Mr. Shining Armor.” I shook my head with a soft smile. “We understand why you all meant those words. But still, it’s all in the past. After all, I don’t blame you all for being upset but I still think you guys could have at least thought it was strange enough. But then again, Queen Chrysalis did manipulate you all with those false tears.”

“Augh! Stop reminding us of that!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Yeah! We don’t need hear more of that bullcrap!” Jack yelled out. “Besides, me and the other dudes and chicks didn’t believe a single word from that crazy cockroach!”

“Y-yeah…sorry about that.” I apologized with a meek smile.

“You better be nerd!” Jack gritted his teeth, causing me to flinch in fear and duck underneath the table and hearing some laughter from the gang.

“Alright, settle down you two.” Mason said with a chuckle. “Now then, I think it’s time for bed you all.”

“Indeed.” Princess Cadance let out a sigh. “Oh boy, I’m about to get some goodnight’s rest on my bed after being in that mine for so long.”

“Just out of thought, just how long you’ve been down there?” Ren asked curiously.

“Oh, I think…maybe a week.” Princess Cadance replied, rubbing her chin in thought. “I don’t know. I lost track of time when being down there.”

“I…see…” Ren chuckled, sweat-dropping a little.

“But still…I’m so tired out.” Kodi yawned. “Come on Ren, let’s go.”

“Yeah, let’s go bud.” Ren smiled softly and petted Kodi by the head as they started to take their leave. “Night everyone.”

We all watched them leave and soon, one by one, we all started taking our leave out of the dining room and head straight to our temporary dorm rooms for the night here for the Canterlot Wedding, and I mean, the real Canterlot wedding.

“You know Mason, my offer still stands.” I looked over to see Mason looking at Shining Armor, who was near him as they were walking out of the door. Mason was apparently carrying a tired out Carrie after she was finished eating up her dinner.

“Well, let me think of that for a while till I can see you again. How does that sound?” Mason suggested.

“Well alright. But I have a feeling that you’ll make a good Royal Guard, in my opinion that is.” Shining nudged him, causing Mason to chuckle as the two walked out of the room. Soon enough, it was just me, Twilight, the princesses, and Nicole alone.

“Well, it would seem that it’s time to take thou leave as well, Tia.” Princess Luna yawned. “But first, we need to go over to the realm of Dreams to make sure thou everypony else isn’t having any nightmares.”

“Be careful out there, Luna.” Princess Celestia hugged her sister, who hugged her back while me and Twilight smiled at them.

“I’m really glad they’re getting along quite well.” Twilight smiled.

“Yeah. These two have such a strong bond.” I nodded before making a soft frown. This sorta reminds me of my sisters and how they treated so kindly. I…I wonder if they’re trying their best to search out for me. I…I wished I could somehow find a way to get back home along with the others. I mean, I bet their friends and family are worried about them as well.

“You’ve really changed, Mr. Watson.” Huh? I turned over to Nicole, who was smiling softly at me. “Your stuttering and that nervous frantic of yours is almost gone. It’s like you became a new man…but your clumsiness still stands.”

“Uhh…thank you?” What is she trying to tell me?

“Well…bye.” Nicole began walking out of the room while the rest of us watched her take her leave.

“She’s sure is a strange girl for a human.” Princess Celestia commented.

“She sure is, your majesty.” I nodded in agreement with a soft smile. “She sure is.”

Though, I do wonder about Nicole’s past life. I’ve known her for her work for the top research of analytical psychology, but…what is there about her? 

“So Jamie, looks like tomorrow is where we really start preparing for the wedding.” Twilight spoken, causing me to widen my eyes a bit before she continued “I know. I’m a little unsure of this, but don’t worry Jamie. This time for sure, everything will go right.”

“Yeah…” I chuckled before smiling over her. “But…I guess we can try. This time for sure…”

“Don’t worry…” Twilight placed a hoof on my hand, much to my surprise. “You got me. Everything will be alright.”

“Y-you sure?” I asked nervously.

“Well we can do it together like before. Also…” She let out a small blush. “How about we stand together next to my brother and Cadance?”

“O-oh…Okay.” I smiled softly, letting out a small blush. Twilight…thank you for everything. I feel as though my bond has gone way stronger with her than ever.

“Cherishing with each other, eh?” Eh? We looked back to see the princesses giving us sly smiles, causing the both of us to blush madly and looked away from their stares.

“You two really do belong with each other.” Princess Luna chuckled. “We could assign a wedding for you.”

“S-Stop that!” I exclaimed. “I-It’s nothing personal, really!”

“Really? Despite you two kissing each other earlier ago?” Princess Celestia teased.

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight yelled out, causing the princesses to laugh at us while we stood there in the dining hall with blushes. This is gonna be something to get used to, huh? Oh well…I guess I should get used to it.

But anyway, that was it. With that, we called it a night and decided to head out to our temporary rooms for the real Canterlot wedding to begin tomorrow for the preparations. Now that the Changelings were gone, we can finally begin with Shining Armor’s and Princess Cadance’s wedding. This will be a memorable event. Just thinking about it…it makes me pumped up to write something. 

Oh yeah…I forgot about my novelist career. Hmm…this event. I think it gave me an idea for a new story to write.

But…as we headed to sleep, I forgot about her. We forgot all about her and didn’t went to check up with her. But what we all didn’t know was that and I may not be a psychologist, but…there might’ve been something else for why she did it.



Meanwhile
Nicole’s POV
Hmm….well looks like the coast is clear. None of those guys are around here. Oh hey, you’re all wondering where am I? It’s nothing too important, just wanting to and speak with a new friend I made. Who’s that you asked? Well…I’m sure you all will think this is crazy, but…I think you all are gonna be shock with who I’m seeing. 

Anyway, I was hanging around the garden outside of Canterlot Castle, or what I heard those guys call it, to wait on for someone. Well…it’s not him if that’s what you’re implying. He may follow me around and keeps his eye on me, but we’re just allies for the time being here in Equestria. I mean, I never know how to make a friend since I distanced myself a lot from them in my research and/or studies. 

“Oh…you finally came.” And it looks like he was here the whole time. I turned over to my left to see something walking out of the shadows, revealing to be a random Royal Guard. He gave me a nervous yet warm smile and said “I thought for sure you would just told anyone about me.”

“Trust me, I wouldn’t do that. Like I said, it’s complicated for them to understand.” I replied, glancing away for a bit before looking back at him. “But they seemed to learned their lesson. I think some of them are feeling guilty for your kind due to what you’ve all been through, despite you all being under her control.”

“Yeah, I’m the only one who doesn’t believe in what she says…” The Royal Guard sighed as a flash of green fire circled around him, revealing to be a Changeling. But unlike the other Changelings, this one showed signs of…nervousness and timidness. “T-though…I am so sorry. I-I didn’t want any of this to happened, Ms. Nicole.”

“It’s okay. I should have known that she was watching over you.” I stated, forming a soft smile. “It’s my fault that I didn’t noticed her eavesdropping on us.”

“Yeah, you’re lucky that she didn’t take away your love.” He sighed in relief. “And maybe the same goes for me as she just scolded me, but she swore to speak more about this once the invasion was done.”

“I’m sorry…” I apologized before typing some stuff in my iPad. “But you know, I was quite surprised to see a being like yourself. Not only because of what you look like, no offence, but how generally kind and honest you were.”

“Heh heh…I guess I was, wasn’t I?” Well he’s acting like his usual self. It looks like since Queen Chrysalis isn’t far directly at him, I guess I can say that the Hive Mind isn’t working on him for now. “So why did you come and see me?”

“Because I had a feeling that you would be here.” I replied. “I’m very observant and I have data on you through my iPad, so I knew that you were part of the battle, but you didn’t fight off the others. It’s very understandable why considering that you yourself aren’t like the others, right?”

“Y-yeah…” He nodded with a sigh. “I-I’m really glad that you don’t think of me as a threat, even after I let my instincts get to ya from earlier we met.”

Oh that’s right. It was because that Queen Chrysalis was using her Hive Mind control on you, making you a heartless monster like the rest of them. Her heart is nothing but filled with arrogance, heartless, cruelty, and insanity for eating off someone or somepony’s love. I can remember meeting with him earlier before my capture.



Flashback - Several Hours Earlier 
Third Person’s POV

Nicole was walking around the empty hallways of Canterlot Castle as she was looking through some data she collected during her time around Equestria. As she was continued to look through it, she accidentally bumped into somepony. Nicole looks up to see an Earth Pony Royal Guard falling on his butt.

“O-oh sorry!” The Royal Guard apologized. “I-I didn’t see you there.”

“Oh hey.” Nicole greeted, not taking her eyes off the screen.

“U-Umm…ma’am? Can you hear me?” The Royal Guard called out. Nicole went silent for a moment, continued to look through her data. “Hey!”


“….Yes?” She called, tilting her head a bit. “What is it?”

“Umm…I accidentally bumped into you and I want to apologize to you.” The Royal Guard reminder her. “I-I want to apologize.”

“No, it’s alright. I’m sorry for bumping into you…” She sighed, adjusting a bit of her glasses. “I should have known better…”

“R-Right…heh heh…” He chuckled nervously as Nicole went silent for a moment, making this conversation quite…awkward. “S-so anyway. So sorry…I’ll go and take my leave.”

As soon as he said that, Nicole raised her brows a bit with a slightly surprised look on her face. As he was about to take his leave, Nicole called out to him.

“Hold on.” He halted before looking back at the human psychologist as she narrowed her eyes a bit. “What…are you even doing here in this garden?”

“H-huh? What do you mean? I’m…patrolling around the area.” He answered with a nervous smile. 

“You seemed pretty nervous for a member of the Royal Guard.” Nicole stated. “…Or are you even a Royal Guard at all?”

That statement nearly caught him off-guard as he began sweating nervously before clearing his throat and said “I don’t know what you’re talking about. I am a part of the Royal Guard. Well…a rookie, that is. Just started working out on the job here in Canterlot.”

“But right here when there’s a threat?” Nicole questioned before shaking her head and furrowed her brows at him. “You aren’t a member of the Royal Guard, so don’t go lying. Besides, you seemed way too nervous and timid to be a member of the Royal Guard while most members are too serious on the job, even when the princess isn’t around.”

The ‘Royal Guard’ froze in shock upon her finding out who he was as he slowly began asking “W-what…? But…I…”

“I’ll admit, you make a good disguise as a Royal Guard. Since Princess Celestia had ordered so many guards, you must’ve used that to your advantage. That way, no one would recognize ya.” Nicole explained softly. “Though, my eyes don’t lie. I can tell just by your emotions and personality, and I know that you aren’t a member of the Royal Guard. So tell me…are you the threat? Or…part of the threat?”

He looked down with a worried and scared look on his face as Nicole asked “Well?”

“….I don’t know how but…why? If you’re trying to-”

“Call for help? No, I won’t.” The Royal Guard blinked in surprise as how she knew what he was gonna say. “Besides, if I wanted help, I would have called help or someone watching over me by now to make sure you won’t caused harm. But don’t worry, I’m all alone.”

“But…why?” He asked, still shocked by her. “I mean, I’m the enemy, aren’t I? Shouldn’t you be afraid of me?”

“I’m not afraid, just curious. You can take off the disguise. We’re safe around here, I think.” Nicole stated. 

“U-Umm…but wouldn’t you just be afraid of me?” He asked, but Nicole shook her head and replied “No, I won’t. Please, won’t you tell me? You can take off that disguise.”

He stared at her in surprise. Wasn’t she gonna be afraid of her but here she is, standing in front of him with a solemn look. He looked at her for a while before giving out a slight nod.

“W-well…okay. But…can I really trust you? What if you’re-”

“Planning to hurt or tell the others? Nope, I won’t. I promise.” Nicole replied. “So…go on.”

He looked at her in surprise for a while before nodding and muttered “O-Okay…but promise me that you won’t get scared or run away or scream.”

“….Okay.” She shrugged.

He nodded as green flames began circling around him and in an instant, he revealed his true form: a Changeling. He slowly opened his left eye at her while she stared at him for a while before she replied “…You look alright to me.”

He nearly fell over before looking at her with a shocked look and asked “S-So wait! You…aren’t afraid of my appearance?! But…I’m not a pony! I’m a freak! You should be scared of me!”

“But I’m not a pony either, so maybe that’s why I’m not afraid of you.” Nicole retorted. “It’s alright you know…you don’t have to be afraid of me and I won’t be as well.”

“But…you just five minutes ago that you weren’t afraid of me!” He pointed out.

“True, but I have feelings too you know.” She pointed out. “I am a psychologist, and it’s my job to listen out to what they say and see how they feel, so give me a chance.”

“….O-Okay.” He nodded before gulping a bit. “But…I-I’m sorry. It’s just…”

“Your nervous and scared because of what you are, am I correct?” Nicole guessed, which the Changeling nodded.

“Y-yeah…I mean, we are known to suck away love from ponies.” The Changeling explained. “And besides, we are feared by anypony we meet. That’s the way of life for us…”

“Suck away…love? Do you mean that in a metaphorical way or…quite literal?” Nicole questioned curiously.

“Well I think it’s more between those two.” The Changeling explained, rubbing his foreleg with a scared look. “T-though…I am mildly surprised that you’re taking this calmly. Normally, anypony who sees me just runs away from me in terror or even try to kill me….but I guess I’m used to it to both ponykind and Changeling kind.”

“Hmm…” She hummed in thought with her eyes closed as the timid Changeling continued “Well, in case you wanna know and not because I-I don’t think of you as a monster like me, no offence, but…you seemed quite trustworthy…in my opinion, that is.”

“….Thanks.” Nicole replied, glancing at him before looking away from him. The Changeling let out a sigh and began telling his little tale.

“I-I was different from other Changelings. Unlike the ones who was made into soldiers to fight back our enemies and steal their love, even ones who holds the strongest bonds, I was different because I thought of different things we can do to solve things besides violence, but everypony bullied me, including my brother and my mother thought of me as useless. I mean, I don’t think of what the other Changelings think.”

“I see…so that’s why you’re here, right?” Nicole asked, much to the Changeling’s confusion. “Your mother must be here in this place inside of the barrier and she’s disguised as Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, correct?”

“What? B-but how?!” He asked in shock. 

“It’s no big deal, I just figured since she was starting insulting us with names despite we only met for the first time. So you know.” Nicole shrugged. 

“W-well…” He stuttered for a moment before clearing his throat. “B-but anyway…you should just stop. I mean, going against Queen Chrysalis is a big mistake. She can hurt you or worse if you try to interfere with her plans she’s got for the Captain of the Royal Guard.”

“…I guess, but maybe there’s a way to convince her to join?” Nicole suggested, much to the Changeling’s shock.

“N-no! You don’t get it! You can’t interfere! If you do…” He let out a hiss while Nicole narrowed her eyes at him. He kept hissing at her before flinching away. “A-Ah! S-sorry…force of habit. It must be her Hive Mind…”

“Hive…Mind?” Nicole asked. 

“Y-yes…It’s something our mother possesses. She uses it to communicate and do what she tells us to in our mind. In case we ever disobey her, she uses it control our minds.”

“In other words…it’s against your free wills, isn’t it?” The Changeling looked away with a sad look while Nicole looked at him with a slightly concern look. “And…you’re okay with this?”

“….I have to. I’m…just scared, okay? She says that it’s for the best for us to just listen what she has to say.” The Changeling explained. “W-we just do what she says to make her proud of us. She says that she knows what’s best for us all.”

“No she doesn’t.” Nicole stated bluntly, much to the Changeling’s shock and anger. 

“O-Of course she is! She knows everything for us! I-I tried very hard to satisfy her! I-I try to fit in as well! I just…I just want someone to acknowledge me!” The Changeling screamed out in anger as Nicole stared at him for a while before saying “There we go…”

“Eh?” He looked at her with a confused look on his face.

“That outburst…it brought out all of what you’re feeling.” Nicole explained. “I get what you’re going through. I never made a single friend due to my constant research and always focusing on my studies that I lack social activity. But it wasn’t just that…”

“R-Really?” He asked in bewilderment. 

“Yes…I can listen what people can say through their emotions so I know what they’re gonna say. You may say it’s like a prediction, but in my opinion, it’s more like knowing by my skills as a psychologist. So…I’m terrible at social communication.” Nicole explained, playing a bit with her hair while holding her violet colored iPad in her left arm. “So…I guess I can understand what you’re saying. I am sorry that you’ve been through much.”

“Wow…” He muttered in surprise. 

“Hm?” Nicole looked at him with a confused look.

“I…I never thought I would be talking to someone who understands me.” He chuckles. “I-I’m really glad to talk you. I guess you’re like the first friend I ever made despite me being a part of the threat.”

“Friend…” She muttered before softly smiling at him. “Thank you…Mister…?”

“O-oh! My name is Thorax. It’s very nice to meet you.” Thorax greeted with a soft smile. Nicole chuckled a bit before she heard a snarl from a very familiar demanding voice.

“So…you think you would come and figure out my true identity, huh?” Nicole widened her eyes a bit before immediately turning back to see ‘Cadance’ behind her with a darkened look. “Well…I guess I knew I shouldn’t have taken my eyes off of you.”

“Ah!” Nicole gasped while Thorax widened his eyes in shock.

“W-wait! Your majesty, don’t hurt her! She just wants to talk to you!” Thorax begged, only to get slapped by ‘Cadance’ as she gave off a scoff and replied “Shut up you little brat. I’ll deal with you later.”

“Thorax!” Nicole widened her eyes in shock before turning to Queen Chrysalis. “So…I take it that you’re the Queen of the Changelings, aren’t you?”

“True…but I must say that I never suspected you to find out who I am.” Chrysalis chuckled. “But it doesn’t matter now…because I’m afraid that I’m gonna need you to take a permanent vacation.”

“Huh?” She asked in confusion before widening her eyes in shock. “This tense emotion you’re feeling…it’s shape like…a monster?”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about and frankly, I don’t care.” Chrysalis scoffed before forming a sly grin at her. “But more importantly, I think it’s time to say goodbye for now…”

“W-wait! No!” Nicole shouted with a slightly pale look before she was surrounded in a ring of flames as it swirled around her and in the next ten seconds…there was no trace of her. Thorax slowly gets up and widens his eyes in shock upon seeing her again.

“No…” Thorax muttered before flinching upon seeing Queen Chrysalis’s glare.

“…You and I will discuss this later. In the meantime, go back to their disguise.” Chrysalis demanded, glaring straight at him. Thorax flinches and groans in pain before reverting back to his previous disguise. She lets out a scoff of disgust and comments “I swear, I wonder why I bother bringing you for the ride instead of your brother.”

Thorax looks down in the ground sadly before gazing over where Nicole once stood.

“…I’m sorry…” Thorax sniffled, letting some tears. “I’m sorry…for not trying to help you….”



Flashback Ended
Nicole’s POV

“Still though, I’m sorry that this happened…” Thorax apologized. “If I had known Chrysalis was eavesdropping on us, then…”

“You don’t need to apologize. It was my fault for directly coming towards you like that.” Nicole shook her head with a soft smile. “But more importantly, I’m glad that you’re safe.”

“For now, that is.” Thorax sighed before gazing at the crescent moon. “Right now, I can already fear what Queen Chrysalis might try to do to me if I return back to the kingdom.”

“So…” Nicole looked over him with a raised brow of concern. “What are you gonna do?”

“…I-I don’t know….” Thorax shook his head with a worried look on his face. “B-but…I guess maybe I should head back to the Changeling Kingdom and face whatever punishment she might give to me.”

“Is that so? You sure that maybe it might too dangerous to do that? That’s quite stupid and suicidal due to her cruel and arrogant personality.” I pointed out.

“No, it’s okay.” He shook his head with an reassuring smile. “I mean, I’m used to it. I felt as if I never belonged there due to my personality, anyway.”

“Then why not live with us?” Thorax looked over at Nicole with a shocked look. I gave him a soft smile and said “Just pretend to be somepony that nopony would know.”

“…Y-You sure? But…what if they found out about me?” Thorax asks in worried. “I-I mean…I don’t wanna anyone to be afraid of me once my instincts kicks in.”

“Then come by the house-ship and have some sessions with me?” I suggested, much to his confusion. “Once we go over the sessions, we’ll be able to get rid of that Hive Mind control that she placed within you.”

“I-I don’t know….” Thorax shook his head. “I-I mean…I don’t want to be a nuisance to you, N-Nicole. But…I want to prove to everypony that not every Changeling are like what they say.”

“That’s going to be difficult due to what happened earlier ago, what with that invasion your queen and your brothers and sisters pulled out.” I pointed out. “Or…more like your queen pulled while your brothers and sisters were doing this against their free will.”

“Yeah…I know…” Thorax sighed before giving me a comforting smile. “But…I want to thank you Nicole for being so kind to me.”

“Well like I said before, I am a psychologist, and it’s my job to listen out to what they say and see how they feel.” I reminded him with a soft smile before looking over at my iPad. “But maybe someday…I think we might be able to get those Changelings to break out of Chrysalis’s Hive Mind control. And maybe we’ll let them bring out their true emotions.”

“Indeed.” Thorax nodded. “I mean, it might even be possible to have them understand what love truly means. Something that Queen Chrysalis could even understand and lacks.”

“Yeah….” I nodded, glancing away for a while before saying “Well…do you want to come with me in disguise in Ponyville? I might learn a little more about your kind and in return, I’ll give you psychological sessions to bring out your true emotions to act like yourself. Until then, we can’t let anyone know, Mr. Thorax.”

“T-thank you Nicole…” Thorax thanked with a smile. “Maybe after the wedding, do you think you could introduce me to your friends…i-if that’s alright with you?”

“Don’t worry, as long as you disguise yourself as somepony that they don’t recognize or even exists in Equestria, then everything will be alright.” I assured with a small grin.

“…Thank you.” Thorax chuckled. We looked at each other with smiles until a voice spoke up. A voice that we were all too familiar with.

“Well well well, I never expected you to do something this far for a psychologist.” Oh man…it’s him. We turned around to see Rantaro walking down from the shadows within from the garden plants with a smirk on his face. “Man…imagine what the others may say.”

“You wouldn’t tell them, would you?” I asked with a raised brow.

“Oh I wouldn’t…for 100 bits.” Rantaro gestured his hand for me to pay up. I looked at him for a while and commented “No matter what, you’re just motivated by anything that involves money.”

“So? Life is all about your own life and money.” Rantaro answered while Thorax looking between me and Rantaro.

“Huh? Are you two…special someponies or something?” I widened my eyes in shock before looking away from them by gazing at my iPad with a light blush.

“D-Don’t be ridiculous, we’re just…acquaintances.” I sighed before turning sternly at Rantaro. “But how about this? If I am able to get at least enough bits to pay your little fee, can you at least keep this a secret? I don’t want the others to panic and do anything to harm Mr. Thorax.”

“Yeah, you don’t think I know that?” Rantaro asked irritably. “But…then again, then that’ll be nice.”

“P-Please Mr. Rantaro!” Thorax begged, kneeling down for him out of a pleading state. “Please! I’m not like the other Changelings! Please, give me a chance!”

Rantaro went silent for a moment before I turned to him and sternly said “Please…I wished to help this Changeling. He’s now a traitor to his own kind, and was badly mistreated by them due to his timid personality and how he views Queen Chrysalis’s ideals differently. He’s…different from the others and now he’s gotten no home. We’ll be able to keep this secret together, so-”

“Fine, whatever.” Huh? Rantaro sighed before shrugging and replied “Yeah, I’ll keep this little secret.”

Hm? That was…odd. His heart just felt…guilt? Was it something I said about Thorax?

“Y-you would do that for me, Mr. Rantaro?” Thorax asks in surprise and joy.

“Just called me Rantaro, no need for formality.” Rantaro said, picking his ear a bit. “Now then…I’ll keep this little secret for you two. But soon enough, knowing those guys for a while, they’ll discover the truth no less.”

“I know…but I’ll take it.” I replied. “But…I wanna try. I want to give it a try on…friendship.”

“Huh? That kind of crap again?” Rantaro asked before letting out a yawn.

“Yes…I am curious on the subject. I want to learn why friendship is…magical to them.” I explained.

“Yes, me too.” Thorax nodded in agreement. “So…will you promise to keep this a little secret?”


“Didn’t you hear me already? I said yes.” Rantaro rolled his eyes before looking over at his pet raccoon, who popped out of his fedora and shook his head in annoyance. “I know, right Gizmo? These kinds of people…”

“…Thank you Mr. Rantaro.” I thanked, much to his bewilderment. “I…am curious to figure out more of your past. Maybe start with your deepest resentment towards your father.”

Rantaro looked over at me with a surprised look before asking “W-what? What are you talking about?”

“Ah yes, I remember seeing a glimpse of that picture on your phone.” I looked over at my iPad and went through some data before showing him the picture. “I hacked into your phone’s storage data and managed to find out what you kept looking at for quite a while.”

“……..” He stood there in complete silence as his face showed signs of shocked and surprised. It would seem that I hit its mark. Or…at least I thought so.

“Ahahahaha! Really? That’s it?” I raised a brow, along with Thorax as Rantaro continued “It’s some stupid picture. So what if it’s my old man? I don’t care about him.”

“….Are you sure?” I asked, causing him to laugh more.

“Look, I don’t care about him and I never did. So stop asking me some stupid questions or else I’ll be canceling out on our little deal.” Rantaro chuckled with a smug look on his face. “I’ll keep your secret for a while till you pay the price.”

“Why do you always do that?” I questioned.

“That’s just business, whether we’re in our world or not.” Rantaro shrugged with a nonchalant smile. “That’s just how I roll.”

“Is…he serious?” Thorax asked in confusion.

“Trust me, he is.” I sighed before adjusting my glasses. “I meant…why are you always like this? Greedy? Cocky? Arrogant? Most importantly, did you really took down Chrysalis and helped us simply because you felt annoyed? No…you did care.”

Rantaro looked at me for a while before scoffing “Whatever, what I said is the truth.”

But what if that truth you just said is nothing but a mere lie? Rantaro Wilde…you are a man filled with lies. You are the embodiment of mysteries and lies.

“Well anyway, we should probably get going before anyone sees us, including him.” Rantaro pointed towards Thorax, who held a calm smile and said “O-oh. Good point Rantaro. But don’t worry, I’ll disguise myself with something that no one will ever noticed.”

“And what’s that? A potted plant?” Rantaro joked, only to find out that Thorax took that literally as he transformed into a potted plant. Rantaro and I stared at him in his disguise for a while as I bluntly commented “Hmm…you look nice for a potted plant.”

“Thanks Nicole.” Thorax thanked as we only heard his voice through it.

“I was being sarcastic.” Rantaro scoffed before walking over and picking it up. “Oh well…at least those idiots won’t find out much about you. If I know them, they’re too slow to figure things out.”

I wouldn’t say what with Jamie, Mason, and Ren are. Ren Loodan may look like an average teenage high schooler, but I sense something within him. It’s like some mysterious power lurking inside of his heart, just like Jamie. Perhaps it’s his ability that he doesn’t know of. His ability to give hope, such as ourselves, to others to support them. He’s that type to never give up and-



Ugh…what the? What’s happening? Is that…me? What is that machine on my head? And why does everything look static? 

“No matter what you do to us, we will never fall into despair.”

What? What did I say..?



“Ugh!” I winced before rubbing my head in pain.

“Eh? What’s up with you?” Rantaro asked, raising a brow at me.

“…It’s nothing. Just a minor headache.” I replied before gazing down at my iPad. Strange, that must’ve been one of our lost memories on how we got here. But it seems like that was one of those memories that we might somehow lost. Hmm…just what happened to us when we got out of those pods? Something doesn’t feel right…

“Hey, you coming or what?” Rantaro called, prompting me to look over and see him that he was about to take his leave with the potted plant of Thorax in his hands. 

“Coming!” I yelled back before running after him. Soon enough, we headed back to our dorm rooms with me carrying the potted plant in my arms. As we were near our rooms, I looked over at Rantaro and smiled softly at him.

“Thank you.” I thanked, much to his confusion before realizing what I meant.

“Enough praise, I just want the money and that’s all. Don’t forget.” Rantaro said, but that didn’t stop me from smiling at him.

“True, but I know you are a nice person.” I stated. “You may keep your distance away from us and tend to make unnecessary lies, but back then when everyone was at the pool area, you brought me out of my room and took me there. I…never been invited before.” 

“So what?” Rantaro replied, gazing away from me. “I just…don’t want to be left alone. Left alone with no one by your side…”

“Hm?” Oh? Did I sense…regret inside of him? Rantaro looked over me with a smug look and said “Well whatever, I’m gonna go and mind my own business. Catch ya in the flipside.”

With that, he walked away and headed into his room. I continued to look at him till I heard Thorax’s voice called to me through the potted plant.

“Mr. Rantaro…is a mystery, isn’t he? Is he always like that?” Thorax’s voice whispered through me.

“Yes…yes he is.” I nodded. “So anyway, Thorax…how long can you stay like this?”


“I-I think I can stay like this till we arrived in Ponyville. We Changelings can stay in these forms as long as we want.” Thorax explained, which I silently nodded before entering my room.

“Well I wish you good luck then. Night Thorax.” I smiled before placing him on the nearby table. 

“You too…and thank you Nicole for helping me.” Thorax thanked, which I nodded before saying “Your welcome…”

With that, we decided to sleep with Thorax remaining as a potted plant and me sleeping on my bed. I know you’re thinking that this is crazy, and I know. But still, as a psychologist, I want to help him after hearing his story on how different he was. Besides, his past…is similar to mine in a way and I’m really glad that I can him help through his habits as a Changeling and make him who he truly is. Trust me, it’ll work. Though Rantaro…I now saw it. I saw something through him. Through that smug, sarcastic, greedy attitude of his…there’s a man who felt so lost and filled with a goal. A goal…to search for the answers of his abandonment as a child.



The Next Day
Jamie’s POV

And so, the Canterlot wedding day has gone off without a hitch. After me and the others had our share for breakfast and such, we all decided to go through with our assignments. Me and Twilight worked together to check up on how everyone else was doing.

We headed over to where Applejack was, making one of her secret Apple Family’s apple strudels and shared some with Cadance, who felt overjoyed and it wasn’t even a trick or lie, she really liked it. 

Next we headed over to Rarity and Kaede, who finished making Princess Cadance’s wedding dress, which was the one that was rejected by Chrysalis back then, but for Cadance, she felt happy and complimented the two, much to their joy.

We then headed over to Ren, Kodiak, and Fluttershy. They were teaching the little hummingbirds to sing in a chorus, and they did surprisingly well. Even Princess Cadance liked it.

Next, they headed over to the party room where Pinkie managed to create in ‘mere seconds’ or so I was told by Nicole. She and Cadance were dancing around in joy while me, Twilight, Nicole, and Rantaro watched. I wasn’t bothered by it since she does have a strong love for anything childish. Well, it would make sense considering she was Twilight’s foalsitter in the past.

With that, everything was checked off. Jack, obviously, was busy in his room taking a nap till we managed to wake him up with Mason giving him a ‘good’ wake up call. I…rather not go into details on what he did to wake him up for the wedding to begin.

Me and Twilight were in the wedding hall where everypony else was waiting. Every guest that came to the wedding yesterday were now calmed down and were ready to have the wedding to begin. 

Before we headed to the wedding hall, Rarity and Kaede prepared several clothes for us to have. For me, I was wearing a white sleeved shirt with buttons on the sleeves. It had a grayish-white vest with three black buttons and grey pants with a leather brown belt wrapped around it with my black dress shoes still on. I was standing near Twilight, who was wearing a beautiful purple dress that fits perfectly for her. I was standing near her and her brother, like I promised. As we waited for the bride to show up. 

“Man, I know I’ve been to my parent’s wedding when I was nine, but this is ridiculous.” Ren sighed. Ren was wearing a white suit with a beige black tie with a chest pocket and had brown dress shoes on him. He also had his hair neatly smoothed out, making it less spiky than before.

As for the others, Mason was wearing a black suit with a red tie with his hair neatly combed, also making it less spikier than it usual is, but with only a piece of hair sticking it on front.

Kaede wore a sleeveless red dress, seeming to of gone below knee-length. As well as this, a jeweled ribbon was attached to it, the gem being green, with the ribbon itself being grey in color. Gloves were worn with this dress with fishnet leggings also accompanying the dress. He hair had sported into a shoulder-length ponytail with her some strands of her hair leaning on her shoulder.

Nicole, surprisingly coming to the wedding, had her hair in a bun and was straightened up perfectly. She seemed to be wearing a dark blue dress of sorts, having two transparent-white sleeves attached to it. It's shown that she also wore a grey belt of sorts, having a gold colored piece of metal in the middle, used to hold the belt in place. I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting her to show up to the wedding at all. I mean, what with her anti-social personality, she wouldn’t want to come so…what made her come?

Jack was wearing a large bluish-black suit jacket with a light blue shirt with dark blue horizontal lines going down from it. He also wore the same bluish-black pants with a large black belt wrapped around his waist, although not too tight because of…you know. The belt buckle was golden with a bull symbol on it, probably from him.

Rantaro was seen wearing a red strap jacket, held in place by a black belt, the center piece being made of a gold-colored metal. The jacket is shown to have goldish-yellow outlines along the clothing, even by the collar. The collar, is shown to have 6 buttons of the same colour, with the outlines being more visible there. Underneath this jacket is shown to be a white shirt of sorts, with the collar being shown to be neatly bent to portray profession. On the right side of this outfit is where a shoulder pad can now be seen. It's shown to be yellow in colour, having a blue piece of fabric draping down over his shoulder. His wildly hair was shown to be combed neatly and he wasn’t wearing his fedora. 

Again, I was surprise to see him here too. I just don’t get why are two anti-social people are here with us. I-I’m not trying to be rude, but it’s just so weird seeing them here. Are they…trying to hang out with us or…?

“Really? So does wedding takes this long, Ren?” Kodiak whispered, sporting nothing but a black bow on his neck. He tilted his head in confusion while Ren gave him an awkward smile and whispered “Yeah, it kinda does. Like two hours or so.”

“Relax you two.” Mason whispered to them. “Just be calm and allow the wedding to continue on. Besides, me and Carrie have been to many weddings in the past because of Elena and the royal family.”

Well I’ve been to some of my father’s weddings whenever he found a new woman to date as me and my sister’s newest mom. 

“Ugh, these pants are making my butt itch.” Jack commented, scratching his butt out of discomfort.

“Jack, stop that.” Kaede scolded. 

“Shaddup. You’re not my mom. Besides, I’m way older than you over six years.” Jack said smugly.

“Yet acts like an idiot.” Rantaro commented. “God, I wonder why the heck did I even bother to come here in the first place if you guys are just gonna waste my time with this?”

“Yeah, why are ya here anyway?” Ren asked curiously before smiling to him. “Did you come to the wedding to enjoy it as well?”

“No, because I felt bored and it beats sitting around in the castle waiting for you guys to finished up the wedding.” Rantaro explained.

“No because you felt like coming here due to wanting to have all the fun.” Nicole explained, much to Rantaro’s annoyance.

“Shut up you…!” Rantaro hissed, causing some of us to chuckle.

“Alright guys, settle down.” Kaede chuckled.

“Kay’s right. Let’s calm down and let the wedding proceed.” Ren nodded in agreement as we heard the bird choir singing with Fluttershy instructing them to do so. We looked over to our left to see the wedding hall’s doors opening, revealing the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Carrie racing through the red carpet, throwing pink flower petals on the ground. 

Carrie wore a black dress that reaches to her feet with a large bow wrapped around her hair flowed down without her ponytail as she looked more cute than usual, including with the extra make-up on her face. She also had a black sash on her neck with some glitter on it, presumably from either Rarity or Kaede or probably both.

As soon as they finished delivering the rose petals, Princess Cadance soon arrived in her wedding dress, and she held a beautiful smile which seemed to get Shining Armor gaping at in awe.

“Seriously, though. I get why the queen of the changelings wanted to be with you, but how did you get someone as amazing as Cadance to marry you?” Twilight questioned her brother. Shining Armor gave her a supporting smile and replied “I told her she wouldn't just be gaining a husband. She'd be getting a pretty great sister, too.”

“That’s really kind of you, Mr. Shining Armor.” I complimented with a smile.

“Thanks Jamie, and oh yeah…” He gave me a soft smile and said “Take care of my sister for me, will ya?”

“Y-yes, I promise.” I nodded. I must say, it looks like Shining Armor and I have finally now became friends in a way. It’s good enough that he trusts me with being around Twilight.

With that, Princess Cadance arrived to the top of the stairs as Twilight silently adjusted her brother’s bowtie, much to his joy as Princess Celestia began her announcement.

“Mares and gentlecolts, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of the real Princess Mi Amore Cadenza–”

“Princess Cadance is fine.” Cadance interrupted her aunt with a smile. Princess Celestia gave her a soft and warm smile before nodding and proceeding with the annoucment.

“Hm. The union of Princess Cadance and Shining Armor. The strength of their commitment is clear. The power of their love, undeniable. May we have the rings please?” 

Spike and Kodiak nodded as the two of them walked over, each carrying one right for the groom and bridge. Shining Armor and Princess Cadance used their magic to levitate the rings to each other and placed them on their horns. Well, since they don’t have any hands or fingers, I think this is a better way to do this.

“I now pronounce you mare and colt!” With that, they walked towards each other and kissed each other with all of us giving out shouts, cheers, and hoorays to them.

“Alright!” Ren shouted with a smile before widening his eyes a bit. “Hey guys, I just realized something…”

“Hm? What Ren?” Kaede asked in confusion.

“Cadance is Celeste’s and Lulu’s niece, right? And Shining is Twilight’s brother. If they gotten married…wouldn’t that make Twilight a niece-in-law for the princesses?” 

We all widened our eyes as we were stunned in silence upon realizing that. Oh my god…he’s right. Twilight is now…a part of the royal family!

“WHAT?!” We all shouted while Twilight giggled.

“What? Did you guys just now realize that?” Twilight chuckled.

“H-hold on! I-I didn’t realize that! I swear!” I exclaimed in shock, which made Twilight and soon, the other girls, laughing at that.

“Oh crap…” Jack put a hand on his head with a bewildered look. “That’s…something I never expected.”

“That’s so cool!” Kodi exclaimed. “You gotta be lucky Twilight if you’re now a relative to Princess Celestia, right?”

“Well…sure, but still, Princess Celestia is a good friend/aunt/teacher to me. And frankly, I’m proud of that.” Twilight smiled, gazing over at her brother and new sister-in-law looking out through the balcony and waving at the other ponies who came to the wedding from the outside. 

“Yeah, besides what’s more important is that we’re all here.” Ren pointed out.

“What do you mean by that, Mr. Ren?” Nicole questioned.

“I mean that we’re all good friends and together, I feel like we make ourselves not only a pretty good team, but a good family as well.” 

Family…? Does he really sees us as a family? We all looked at each other in surprise before nodding at Ren, who gave us an awkward smile and continued “Well…that’s what I believe anyway.”

“Well while you may be too kind and stubborn, your heart is quite pure in its own.” Mason smiled softly at him before nudging him, causing Ren to chuckle.

“Yay! I can’t wait for the wedding to go on!” Carrie shouted in joy.

“Meh, it better have some good. I could go for something to eat.” Jack rubbed his gut while Rantaro gave him a deadpanned look.

“Really? Do you always think of food?” Rantaro asked, only to receive a scoffing from him.

“Shaddup, I don’t need ya opinion.” Jack scoffed while some of us chuckled at them.

“This is both of your victories as much as theirs.” We all turned to Princess Celestia walking towards us with a soft grin on her face. 

“Huh? Our…victory?” I asked in confusion. 

“Indeed Jamie. You two were persisted in the face of doubt, and your actions led to your being able to bring the real Princess Cadance back to us. Learning to trust your instincts is a valuable lesson to learn.”

W-well…I guess so. But rarely, I barely did anything.

“W-well…thank you your majesty.” I smiled nervously before bowing. “But really…I didn’t do anything at all.”

“Sure ya did, James!” Pinkie nodded, wrapping her hoof around my shoulder. “You kissed your crush in the lips and created a powerful light that got rid of the despair out of Chrysalis and her Changelings!”

“W-what?!” I exclaimed, blushing madly. “What are you talking about?!”

“Oh well, that’s what I say! You were great Jamie!” Pinkie complimented. “Besides, you used those weird powers that you never thought you would use to save the day.”

“I don’t even know about those powers!” I exclaimed with a bewildered look on my face. “I mean, how would-”

“Don’t bother asking that Jamie.” Pinkie shook her head. “Besides, like that one guy would always say: heart light dark heart bart dart.” 

“…What?” Kodi asked, tilting his head in confusion.

“Where have I heard that before?” Ren wondered, crossing his arms in thought.

“Well either way….” Twilight smiled towards me with a light blush. “I think that you did great Jamie, and you really have grown strong in a way. I think you’re really great.”

“T-thank you Twilight…” I smiled softly as the two of us softly held hands/hooves together while the others smiled at us with joy.

“I think these two were made for each other.” Fluttershy commented. 

“Yeah, these two are kinda obvious to anyone judging by their love for books.” Ren added, causing the both of us to glare at him. “What? I’m just saying.”

“Kinda like you and Fluttershy in a way, Ren.” Kodiak laughed, causing the two of them to blush.

“Well…I suppose so, bud.” Ren scratched his cheek with a blush on his cheeks. 

“But you know, I think I’m proud of that.” Fluttershy held his hand as Ren looks down on her with a smile as the two started kissing each other, causing the rest of us to chuckle.

“Really?” Twilight chuckled before turning to me and said “How about we do as well?”

“S-Seriously? Right now?!” I exclaimed before Twilight kissed me in the lips, causing me to feel less tense while the others whistled at us. As we finished our kiss, my face turned red as I muttered “Wow…”

“Ha ha! Nice kiss nerd!” Jack laughed while some of them gave us amused smiles. Well…I wouldn’t care because…frankly, I kinda deserved this.

“Psst! Rainbow Dash! That’s your cue!” Huh? We looked over to see Princess Celestia whispering something to Rainbow Dash, who was the only one not wearing a wedding dress as she let out a giddy smile before blasting off through the balcony’s windows, leaving a rainbow trail behind. We all raced outside and watched Rainbow Dash leaving behind a large rainbow through the skies around Canterlot as we all watched in awe.

“BEST…WEDDING…EVER!” We all heard Rainbow Dash shouted as we all cheered and watched the scene before us.

“Ooh!” Carrie and Kodi said in awe.

“Heh, Skittles knows how to make a dramatic entrance.” Jack toothily grinned with his arms crossed.

“You can say that again.” Mason smiled as me and Twilight still held our hands/hooves together as we watched over the scene together.

Today, I felt so much confidence from just arriving here in Canterlot. I wasn’t being a coward, I wasn’t running away from my problems, I actually did something right for once and felt useful…I guess I really have become strong and I’m glad to have amazing friends such as them by my side…



Later
With that, the day surprisingly went fast as we all enjoyed ourselves here in Canterlot with all the dancing, eating, telling stories and jokes, and getting to know one another. Soon enough, we were all outside of the garden sanctuary as we all were preparing to have a little dance party. 

I was with Ren, Jack, Mason, Kodi, and Rantaro while the girls were busy talking with each other about stuff. As we were getting some punch, Jack punched me in the right shoulder, causing me to wince as he commented “Ha! Still can’t believe ya kiss a girl and stood up for yourself for once!”

“T-T-Thank you Jack…” I chuckled before looking over him, Mason, and Ren. “And…I couldn’t have done it without you guys.”

“Huh? Me included?” Ren asked in surprise.

“Yes, you three kept helping me in the end and I can’t help but thank you all for that.” I explained with a soft smile. 

“It was our pleasure, Jamie.” Mason assured with a soft smile.

“Well thanks. I appreciate it, but I really didn’t do anything at all.” Ren stated with an awkward smile.

“You were there with me for our morning exercises, so I thank you for that.” I chuckled, causing him to smile happily at that.

“Well…you make a good point.”

“Whatever. Hmph, I’m glad that you finally stood up and stop being a wimp…for now.” Jack grinned before ruffling up my hair with a grin. “You did good kid, and I didn’t need to beat ya half to death for pulling off that dumb move you pulled earlier.”

I sweat-dropped upon realizing what Jack was implying. 

“Can we please not talk about that, please?” I begged, earning a laugh from him.

“Sure sure, whatever nerd.” Jack laughed while Mason shook his head, Ren chuckling, and me sweat-dropping out of embarrassment and annoyance. 

“So…still got those things on ya cheeks?” Huh? Rantaro gazed at me, mainly at those cutie-marks on my cheeks. “Jeez, for a minute there, I thought you gotten childish tattoos.”

“Oh yeah, I forgot about them.” Ren said, looking at them. “Huh…I wonder if this about that secret hidden power Princess Celestia was talking about.”

“Yeah…but I think I’ll get used to it.” I sighed. “After all, if it’s like the same Cutie-Marks here in Equestria, I don’t think it’s possible to get rid of.”

Though, there has to be a reason why they’re on my face in the first place. What is this secret power Princess Celestia spoke about? I just wished I had all the answers…but it’s best to search out the answers for myself. After all, that’s pretty much the fun of it.

“Well I hope it doesn’t bother you that much, Jamie.” Kodi said in concern.

“No no, it’s alright. I’ll get used to it.” I assured. “I promise that I’ll search out the answers.”

“And we’ll help ya along with the way.” Ren said with a soft and warm grin on his face. “We promise dude!”

“T-Thank you R-Ren…” I thanked with a small smile, which he nodded.

“Ha! No offense, but that kinda tattoo makes ya look like a kid.” Jack laughed, causing me to sigh. 

Oh well…I’m sure he doesn’t mean it. 

“Psst! Boys!” Huh? We all turned around to see Pinkie coming underneath the table. glancing around to make sure no one was around. 

“Pinkie?” Ren whispered. “What are you doing here?”

“I need you guys to do me a favor and it’s a pretty big one that I know you boys are totally gonna like-like-like!” Pinkie explained, much to our confusion.

“A…favor?” I asked slowly.

“What kind of favor is it?” Mason questioned with a raised brow.

“Its an easy one that’s totally gonna liven the party up!” Pinkie giggled, much to our confusion. 

“…What?” Rantaro asked. “Look, if you’re gonna make us set up some of those crazy cannons of yours, then don’t. It’s a waste of time and money for me.”

“Don’t worry Ran, you guys are totally gonna love it!” Pinkie grinned largely, causing me to feel a bit nervous. Just what is this little favor Pinkie has in store for us? 

“What makes you say that?” Kodi asked curiously.

“Y-yeah…and you said that this favor will liven up the party.” I pointed out before asking “But why do you say that?”

“Well because the band assigned for this party couldn’t come except for DJ-Pon 3, so…” Wait…band? DJ-Pon 3? Wait, from what she’s saying, it’s like she wants us to…

“Band?” Jack asked with a raised brow. “The hell you talking about?”

“I mean that you guys are gonna sing for everypony!” And of course, it looks like I was right. My face turned a bit pale upon hearing that.

“Y-you want us…to sing in front of everyone here in the wedding?” I asked in worried.

“Don’t worry you guys! You’re all gonna love-love-love it!” Pinkie chuckled, only to get an annoyed look from Rantaro.

“Please don’t say that again.” Rantaro sighed. “So that’s it? What’s in it for me?”

“Duh! Make everypony in this party more upbeat by it!” Rantaro stared at her for a while before bluntly asking “Uh-huh, aaaand?”

“Plus, I’ll give ya 50 bits.” Pinkie added.

“Deal.” Rantaro smirked. 

“Hmph…dirty money-grabber.” Jack scoffed.

“B-but still…! Singing in front of everyone…!” I began panicking till Ren gave me a comforting smile and said “Hey, don’t worry dude. Everything is gonna be alright. I promise.”

“Y-you sure?” I asked nervously.

“Yep!” Ren placed hands behind his back with a cheerful smile. “Don’t worry, I’ve played tons of Guitar Hero games so I know how to play a guitar.”

Um….I don’t think that’s the least of my concerns.

“Besides, I think you’ll do great. Besides, you’ll have us by your side.” Ren added. “Trust me, we got your back James.”

“….O-Okay.” I nodded with a meek look on my face.

“Well…I’m already in for you guys.” Mason smiled. “I guess we can try.”

“Hell yeah! Count me in as well.” Jack toothily grinned.

“I’m doing this for the money, so yeah.” Rantaro shrugged. 

“And so am I!” Ren nodded before placing his hands behind his head.

“And I’ll be cheering you guys on!” Kodi barked happily. “I wished I could play an instrument…”

“Don’t worry Kodiak!” WAH! Pinkie suddenly popped right between us and wrapped her hooves around us. “I promise that I’ll get you a mic for you to become a backstage singer!”

“Oh! Thanks Pinkie!” Kodi smiled happily. “And thanks to you, we’ll be able to sing together and make everyone and this party awesome than ever!”

“YAY!” Pinkie shouted, nearly getting everyone to stare at us in confusion and bewilderment before looking away and kept chatting within themselves. “Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! I can’t wait! I can’t wait! Thank you! Thank you! Thank-”

“Don’t make us regret our decision.” Rantaro said with a blank look on his face.

“Sorry! Sorry sorry sorry sorry…” One look from Rantaro’s face showed that he wasn’t playing around her games, causing her to smile sheepishly and muttered “Sorry…”

“W-well…alright.” I sighed. I mean…it can’t be that hard, right?

Later

Okay…I’m starting to freak out! We were behind the curtains as everypony was still busy talking. 

Oh man, oh man, oh man. I’m really gonna screw this up.

“You alright Jamie?” I looked over at Ren and the others, who were giving me concern looks. Well…except for Rantaro as he was busy practicing with the electric piano.

“Yeah, you kinda look pale.” Kodiak pointed out, causing me to look away nervously.

“I-I’m sorry…I’m just nervous just singing in front of these ponies, including the princesses and our friends. I…I just don’t know what to do.” I explained sadly.

“Jamie…have confidence in yourself.” Ren said with a comforting smile. “You just gotta have faith in yourself. Have faith in yourself like you had when we were battling the Changelings. Just stay calm and we’ll be alright.”

“He’s right, you know.” Mason nodded. “Besides…I just don’t know why Pinkie picked us for this?”

“Ha, probably because we’re the only ones to do it.” Jack shrugged, sitting down near the drums.

“Well in the meantime, we just gotta believe in ourselves.” Ren assured. “Well…I’ve played enough guitar hero games to understand how to play one.”

“Well…a-alright then.” I sighed before the rest of us began getting into our positions with me on mic, Mason with bass, Ren with electric guitar, Kodiak also on mic next to Ren, Jack on drums, and Rantaro on the electric guitar. Oh man…I just know that we’re gonna mess up.

…No! I mustn’t think like that! I have to stop acting like a coward and have confidence in myself! Alright…let’s do this!

With that, we watched as the curtains gets opened up as it revealed everypony watching us in awe, including the girls and the princesses, as they became surprised to see us. Pinkie was with them and gave us a big grin and nod, implying that she was giving us a good luck gesture.

“Psst! Jamie…” Ren whispered towards me, causing me to glance at him. “You can do it…just speak what your heart tells ya. I’m scared too, but we just gotta keep going.”

“…..O-Okay.” I nodded before looking over at the crowd. Soon enough, Mason began playing his bass guitar, starting up a song. I soon let out a heavy sigh and held a slightly nervous yet confident look on my face. Soon enough, I began singing the lyrics of a song.


Glorious

(Jamie):
After searching trying to find ya
I thought I'd lost my luck
But I'd never thought in a million years that
You would just walk right up

(Kodi):
Now that I found your love
I could never let you down
Even when the times get rough
Nothing's gonna stop us now

(Jamie and Co.)
We'll grow old
And we'll never be alone
And no matter where we roam
We'll be glorious
We'll be glorious and you know it's true


Everyone started getting into the groove as they started dancing around and having fun listening to the song I’m singing. I heard this once from the radio while I was finishing up the last touches of one of my mystery novels.

(Jamie):
Now we're glowing
Like a fire
Illuminating from within, hey!
So we keep on
Climbing higher
To the sky we're going where we've never been

(Ren):
Now that we've set us free, hey!
Nothing's going to hold us down, hey!
Even when the time get rough, hey!
We'll never lose the fight in us

(Jamie and Co.)
We'll grow old
And we'll never be alone
And no matter where we roam
We'll be glorious, hey!
We'll grow old
And we'll never be alone
And no matter where we roam
We'll be glorious
We'll be glorious and you know it's true

(Jamie):
You and I we're never gonna rest
Keep up the dream
Like it's life or death
And you and I we're never giving in
Never giving in
Never giving in

(Ren, Jamie, and Kodi):
And you and I we're never gonna rest
Keep up the dream
Like it's life or death
And you and I, we're never giving in
Never giving in
We're never giving never giving

(Jamie and Co.)
We'll grow old
And we'll never be alone
And no matter where we roam
We'll be glorious, hey!
We'll grow old
And we'll never be alone
And no matter where we roam
We'll be glorious
We'll be glorious and you know it's true.


As soon as I finished the last verse of the song, everyone started clapping their hooves on the ground with excited looks on their faces and I noticed the girls and the princesses were giving us smiles, grins, and winks at us.

Ren gave me a big smile on his face and said “Alright! I told ya I knew how to play the guitar since playing so many Guitar Hero games!”

“Your knowledge of gaming never cease to amaze and surprise me at the same time.” I commented with a light chuckle.

“Yeah.” Mason nodded. “I think maybe we should play one more song for tonight? How does that sound?”

“Okay…” I nodded.

“Can we sing along with ya?” Huh? We turned around to see the girls appearing before us with smiles on their faces. Twilight stood in front of me with a grin and asked “Mind if we join in on the fun? I mean, you boys can’t have all the fun.”

“O-Oh…umm…” I hesitated for a moment before giving her a soft smile. “Sure, I see why not.”

Twilight smiled before kissing me on the cheek and the rest of the girls stood next to us or next to each other as Pinkie appeared behind a DJ set with a white pony wearing weird glasses as she exclaimed “Alright! Let’s get this party started!”

“Together, right Jamie?” Twilight asks me, which made me smiled and replied “Yeah, together forever.”

Together forever…is that even possible to do? Can we really be together forever in Equestria? Is that…possible? No, I mustn’t think negative thoughts. It’s a promise. A promise between friends like us. With that, we heard that white pony, who I think is that DJ Pinkie mentioned, began playing the song as we began singing through a song.


(Twilight):
Love is in bloom
A beautiful bride, a handsome groom,
Two hearts becoming one
A bond that cannot be undone because
Love is in bloom
A beautiful bride, a handsome groom
I said love is in bloom
You're starting a life and making room
For us 

(Choir):
(For us, For us....)


As we continued to sing on, the wedding was soon starting to come to an end. Shining Armor and Princess Cadance were walking towards the carriage as we were walking over to them with Shining smiling over his sister.

“Twilight!” Shining hugged his sister as he gave her a noogie and said “None of this would’ve been possible without you and your friend, little sis. Love ya, Twily.”

“Love you too, B.B.B.F.F.” Twilight laughed. Shining nodded before turning to me, causing me to feel tense and nervous as he gave me a stern look before raising his hoof and giving me a soft smile.

“Take care of my sister, Jamie. I trust you.” Shining chuckled, causing me to feel surprised by that before smiling over him and shaking his hoof. 

“Y-yes Shining. I promise that I won’t let you down. I swear it on my life…not literally.” I smiled a bit, which made him chuckle before he gave me a noogie.

“Ha ha! Anytime!” Shining laughed before turning to Mason. “And Mason, my offer still stands.”

“I know, and when we meet again, I’ll make my decision.” Mason smiled. “Until then, enjoy the honeymoon Shining Armor.”

“Yep!” Shining winked before he and Cadance entered the carriage with a smile on his face. Before the two can share a kiss, Cadance widened her eyes a bit before turning through the window.

“Oh! Almost forgot!” She threw some a bouquet of flowers outside.

“Ooh! I got it!” Kaede shouted as she, Carrie, and a trio of bridesmaids were trying to catch it.

“No! I wanna! I wanna!” Carrie shouted while the rest of us sweat-dropped at them.

“Should we…?” Kodi turned to Ren, who shook his head and replied “No…it’s best not.”

Well its wedding tradition for the bride to toss their bouquets into the crowds to distract people, then making a break for it with her husband to the bridal chamber. But it also meant to bring good luck to women to find their true love.

As the girls were gonna catch it, Rarity stepped in with a nearly insane look before she yelled “IT’S MINE! Ahahaha!”

She’s…gone too insane for us to stop her from doing that. Unfortunately, that bouquet landed into none of the girls hooves or hands. Instead, out of shock and surprised, it landed into none other than…Rainbow Dash.

She widened her eyes upon seeing the bouquet of flowers in her hooves before turning to Jack, who was standing near her as they both widened their eyes in shock.

“I guess some things are hard to resist with you two around, eh?” Rantaro joked.

“Yes indeed.” Nicole agreed.

“Huh?!” Jack widened his eyes in shock before growling at them. “Shaddup! What are you talking about?!”

“Yeah! The day I date fatty is the day I lose a wing and can’t fly! So nope!” Rainbow Dash threw her bouqet away and landed in Twilight’s arms, who looked at me as we both stared at each other in surprise before softly smiling at each other.

“Now that’s what I call a happy ending.” I heard Ren say to his friends, which made them chuckle while Rarity cried out in despair and pouts at us.


Love is in bloom
A beautiful bride, a handsome groom
I said love is in bloom
You're starting a life and making room
For us, (For us... For us... Aah...)


“Now this was a great wedding.” Twilight beamed happily.

“Yeah, I think everything is perfect.” I chuckled. 

“Oh yeah? Just wait until you see what me and Kodiak have planned for the bachelor party!” Spike grinned cockily.

“Yeah! While I didn’t understand what it meant, all I know that it was a party.” Kodi chuckled, causing the rest of us to stare at them before laughing at them, much to their confusion. “What? What’s so laughing?”

“Kodiak, that’s not how a bachelor party works.” Ren stated, trying to calm down from laughing too hard.

“Yeah, it only works by before the wedding.” I stated, causing the two of them to look at each other in shock before making sheepish grins at us.

“Oh…” They muttered.

“Don’t worry, how about we have one when we get back?” Mason suggested.

“Hey! We deserve a girls party of our own you know!” Kaede exclaimed.

“Yeah! No fair big brother!” Carrie shouted in agreement, causing some of the others to laugh. Soon enough, we heard fireworks being set off in the skies as we all stared at them in awe, amazement, grins, and joy.

“It sure looks pretty tonight.” Nicole commented.

“Ha ha! It sure is!” Ren smiled happily at the sight of them. 

“EEK!” Fluttershy flinched before holding onto Ren’s hands, catching him by surprise. She widened her eyes a bit in surprise before sheepishly smiling and said “S-Sorry! One of them caught me by surprise. S-sorry…”

“No no! It’s okay!” Ren assured with a soft grin. “You were just…scared, that’s all.”

“Oh…” Fluttershy blushed a bit as they watched over the fireworks. 

Me and Twilight looked at each other and chuckled before holding our hands/hooves together with smiles on our faces. Today….was really beautiful. Today…was a great day to show how strong our bonds have become. And frankly, I’m proud of that.



Meanwhile

“Yes, enjoy your little party humans.” Over by the cliffs gazing over Canterlot, Void had his arms crossed and merely mocked those down at the city.

“Because soon, all of that will have to come to an end once I revived his kingdom back. After all, I gave him and the others my life when I created them. Now then…it’s time to start.” Void darkened his face before he disappeared in a dark portal.

“….You humans don’t know what you’re dealing with in the first place. You’re just involved with all this because of her…” 

With that, Void disappeared from the sight as everyone was still busy partying by the Canterlot wedding over by the city. 

To Be Continued To The Third Season
> Chapter 58 - Another Day In Equestria
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“So how are you feeling?”

“O-oh…I’m feeling alright Ms. Bonnie, thank you.”

“You can call me Nicole, or ‘Nikki’ as everyone kept calling me.” 

Nicole and Thorax were in Nicole’s private bedroom with Frost resting on her bed. Nicole was busy giving Thorax a private therapy ever since Nicole brought him over to their home-ship as he disguised himself as a potted plant. To make sure that the others won’t get suspicious, she made a little lie that she got that potted plant during their little stay at Canterlot and nobody suspected a thing. Well…not everyone as she sensed some of her friends felt suspicious of that, but she didn’t mind.

Now several weeks has past since the major Changeling invasion at Canterlot, and Shining Armor and Princess Cadance were still in their little honeymoon. The Changelings were out of sight and the princess has to make sure such a mistake never happens again. 

Although, thanks to that battle, it made everyone’s opinion on the Changelings negative. However, those opinions didn’t matter to Nicole and possibly the others. Nicole promised Thorax that she’ll help him out of his problems and make him prove that not all Changelings are untrustworthy. 

“So…uhh…” Thorax cleared his throat, but still hesitated on what to say. “S-So…what now?”

“….” Thorax didn’t get a reply as he looked over and saw Nicole half-asleep in her chair while she had a white lab coat on her for psychology purposes. Thorax cocked his head to the left with a confused look and called her again.

“U-Umm….Nicole? Nicole? Nicole!”

“Hm?” Nicole blinked as a snort bubble from her nose before looking over at her patient. “Oh…sorry….I was too tired…”

Frost soon gotten up from Nicole’s bed and walked over to Nicole as he began nuzzling her and licking her by the face. Nicole softly smiled before petting him on the head while Thorax watched in confusion.

“Umm…what are you doing Nicole?” Thorax asked in confusion.

“I’m showing affection to my friend, Frost.” Nicole answered, turning to him with a serious look. “I know what you’re thinking. You’re confused upon seeing this, right?”

“W-well…you got me. I…never seen anything like this. Petting a polar bear.” Thorax said with a surprised look. “I-I mean…is this-”

“Part of your rehabilitation system to make you drop all of your habits as a changeling? Yes.” Nicole nodded before looking over her iPad. “You need to break out of your rogue nature in order to match up with your personality.”

“O-Okay…but how?” Thorax asked curiously.

“Pet Frost.” Nicole said bluntly, surprising Thorax.

“R-Really?! H-he wouldn’t bite me…right?” Nicole shook her head as she bluntly stated “Frost isn’t the type to use violence as long as he’s protecting anyone he deems a friend.”

“R-Really? That’s refreshing…” Thorax grinned nervously before looking at Frost, who was laying his head on the floor. Thorax grinned nervously before looking over at Nicole, who nodded before looking through her iPad. Thorax gulped before slowly walking over to Frost and slowly began placing his hoof towards Frost while it was taking another nap. Nicole watches them while she sat on her small computer chair with her iPad still in her hands as Thorax was slowly about to touch Frost’s snow white fur till…

“HISSSSSS!” Thorax began hissing at Frost, letting out a snarl while Frost got up from his nap before growling dangerously at Thorax. Thorax soon gotten back to his senses before looking away, clutching on his chest in pain.

“U-Ugh!” Thorax coughed before turning to Nicole with an apologetic look. “I-I’m so sorry! I-I didn’t mean to…”

“You’re getting flustered.” Thorax looked at her with a surprised look as she continued “Your habits of being controlled by Chrysalis is still lingering within your mind from her Hive Mind control. If you just calm your mind, then maybe you’ll be able to counteract her Hive Mind and you can think on your own in order to not be a violent Changeling.”

“N-Nicole…are you sure?” Thorax asked nervously. “I-I mean…I don’t wanna doubt you and all since you’re the only one to ever listen to me…but, I’m not sure-”

“If you can do this, right?” Thorax looked at her in surprise before nodding to him. Nicole sighed before taking off her glasses and began cleaning them as she calmly continued “Just because you think it can’t happen, doesn’t mean you can’t really do it without experiencing it.”

“Y-you…you really think so?” Thorax questioned.

“Yes…I think.” Nicole answered. “Just try being yourself and forget about your issues. How about we discuss about your social life back at the Changeling Kingdom?”

“Well…” Thorax rubbed his chin in thought, wondering where to start before brightening up on one thing. “Well I have a brother and he and I have a…complicated relationship.”


Nicole stared at him before nodding, implying for him to continue.

“Well…Queen Chrysalis sees him as a real Changeling warrior. While I don’t have the qualifications due to my personality, I was always picked on by the other Changelings. Like when I was young, I would always play around with my action figures till they came and tried to hurt me.”

“Action figures?” Nicole questioned.

“Y-yeah…I know, but it helps calm my mind.” Thorax chuckled sheepishly before he continued on with his story. “But then, my brother would always transform into the scariest creatures you can possibly imagine.”

Nicole hummed for a moment before looking over at Frost, who snorted before resting on her lap as she petted him on the head as Thorax continued on and on.

“And then, after scaring off my tormentors, he came over and forcefully made me slapped myself and told them that they were right calling me a coward.” Thorax sighed. “While that may not be a fond memory, I still appreciate him for saving me at least. Though, while we may be different by personality and status, I still love and trust Pharnyx…though I guess he thinks of me as a traitor…”

“……Ah, I see.” Nicole muttered, looking at her iPad and typing some things in it. “You’re very much different from the other Changelings that we encountered back at the invasion. You’re far too kind to ever be considered dangerous, but thanks to that invasion, many ponies are rightfully terrified and traumatized by your kind thanks to your leader’s selfish decisions.”

“I-I know…I wished she ever turned out to be like this. If only she never took his word onto getting the idea to steal Shining Armor and Princes Cadance’s love.” Thorax sighed, which seemed to grab Nicole’s attention.

“I have heard her mention that many times many weeks ago.” She narrowed her eyes at Thorax and demanded “Who is this he she keeps mentioning?”

“W-well…I don’t think I got his name, and his whole entire appearance was covered in a clock, but I definitely could tell that he had a mask with only his left eye showing.” Thorax described. “And…he had plenty of info about you guys.”

Nicole slightly widened her eyes a bit of surprise upon hearing this. 

“So…this being knew us? And everything?” Nicole questioned further, which made Thorax grow a little nervous by the questioning.

“Y-yes…but that’s all I can say. All I know was I was told to transformed into what Chrysalis told me to do based on some pictures of you guys.”

“Pictures…of us?” Nicole asked in confusion.

“W-well…I-I’m sorry, but…” Thorax flinched a bit. “I-I don’t know who he was, or where he got it…S-sorry…”

“No, it’s alright. Whether or not it’s not enough, it’s good enough.” Nicole assured. “Hmm…I’m not sure who this being is, or how in the world do they know us…but maybe…”

“Hm? Maybe what?” Thorax asked curiously. Nicole went silent for a moment before she replied back to him.

“…Sorry…I just need some time.” Nicole answered before giving him a soft smile. “But thank you very much, Nicole.”

“Y-your welcome…” Thorax chuckled, hiding a blush from him. “But you know…you gotta be the first person/pony to ever be this kind and nice to me. But…” He rubbed his hoof bashfully with a somewhat sad look and muttered “But the moment I walked into town in my true form, they’ll instantly see me as a monster and your human friends might try and kill me.”

“No, don’t say such ridiculous things.” Nicole assured, looking through her iPad while Frost laid down on her lap as she continued “Ren is a very kind person, and would try to find a way to believe in others. He’s more of the pacifist type. Mason is very loyal and would try to stay true to those he deemed as friends. Carrie may be small, but she isn’t that violent to hurt anyone unless something breaks her limit. Kaede may act average and kind, but she’s very optimistic in a similar way to Ren. Jamie is very nervous and timid as he doesn’t believe in violence unless its necessary, but has a tendency to listen to others’ opinions. Jack….is quite violent and a brute with a short-tempered fuse, but he’ll soon accept you like he had with us…and Rantaro…while he may be mysterious, anti-social, sarcastic, cocky, arrogant, greedy, and doesn’t like having his time being wasted…I know that he isn’t the type to eventually to hurt anyone…but he’ll do anything for money…”

“Meh, you got that right.” Nicole, Frost, and Thorax turned around to see Rantaro walking out of the elevator with a cocky grin and held three cappuccinos in a small package he held in his hands. Rantaro walked over to them and set them down on the table with a smirk on his face.

“Been wondering what took ya so long, Nikki?” Rantaro grinned arrogantly. “So…got my money?”

“……” Nicole grabbed a cup of coffee before slurping on it. Five seconds later, she turned to him and said “Thank you for the cappuccino, Rantaro.”

“Hello? Got my money? Time is ticking.” Rantaro stated with an annoyed look. 

“Wait, you weren’t kidding?” Thorax asked in confusion. “You were…serious about wanting to keep this secret if she given you money?”

“Of course. Money is everything.” Rantaro shrugged nonchalantly before glaring at him annoyingly. “And what are you doing here? Got nowhere to go?”

“W-well…yeah, kinda. I think now Queen Chrysalis deems me as a traitor since I kinda told Nicole about the whole plan. W-well…almost…” Thorax rubbed the back of his head. “Nicole decided to help me out by allowing me to stay around the home-ship.”

“Well not my problem.” Rantaro rolled his eyes before turning to Nicole. “So…where’s my paycheck? Been waiting for several weeks.”

“Do you honestly like getting payed for whenever someone promises you something?” Nicole asked, furrowing her brows at him.

“Well duh, that’s who I am.” Nicole shrugged before putting a finger on the right side of his head. “I’ve been living in this screw-up world that keeps wasting my time every five minutes! Do you know how much I make in a day?”

“…Well, seeing you acting like this makes me feel a lot better in an ironic way.” Nicole stated bluntly, causing Rantaro to roll his eyes before drinking his cappuccino.

After one drink, he gave out a soft cocky grin and muttered “Oh yeah…that’s the spot.”

“Umm…is this coffee?” Thorax asked curiously, gazing down at the latte. 

“What do you think?” Rantaro asked irritably. 

“W-well…I’m not much of a coffee person. I never drank something like this before.” Thorax chuckled nervously with an awkward smile. 

“So what are you waiting for? Drink up.” Rantaro offered, leaning against another computer chair near Nicole’s desk. Thorax stared at him in surprise before turning to Nicole, who shrugged while she gazed at her iPad. 

Thorax blinked a few times before grabbing the coffee with her hooves before drinking it. He widened his eyes before smirking in satisfaction as he exclaimed “Oh wow! This taste so good! Is this what coffee tastes like?”

“See? Were you having doubts with us?” Rantaro smirked, which made Thorax chuckled nervously. 

“W-well…I kinda, but I was pretty curious to know what coffee tastes like.” Thorax smiled a bit. “I-I mean…I do want to know what it tastes like. I…never tasted anything like this before.”

“Do you even eat anything?” Rantaro asked, picking his ear a it.

“Well…only when we suck up someone’s love, but even without that, but we even eat our own slime, that’s all.” Rantaro and Nicole stared at him as he gave out a nervous smile to them.

“…Your kind is really no fun, are they?” Rantaro asked with a raised brow.

“Yeah…kinda…” Thorax sighed. “But I really want to try, you know. I want to keep on being my own pony. I mean, that’s why I want to change as much as I can.”

“Well good luck to that.” Rantaro shrugged. “But do you really think any of those guys might even try to get along with a guy like you? I mean, what with the whole invasion thing back at Canterlot.”

“W-well…even so, I know they didn’t have a choice due to the Hive Mind.” Thorax stated.

“Whatever, it’s your call.” Rantaro shrugged.

“Don’t act hostile towards him, Rantaro.” Nicole sated sternly. “His heart is quite pure and filled with joyful emotions, of course he isn’t evil unlike his queen/mother.”

“Whatever you say, not my problem.” Rantaro rolled his eyes. “Besides, I’m still waiting on my cash. You don’t and I start spilling secrets.”

“Then why didn’t you do so earlier when we agreed to it?” Nicole asked with a raised brow.

“Huh?” Rantaro looked at her with a confused look.

“I study your character for a while, and now you do things early than anyone can anticipate.” Nicole stated, looking through her iPad. “I know that you do stuff like that. In you guys’ terms, you would have said something about our little secret about keeping a Changeling inside of the home-ship and befriending one in the first place after the invasion. So…why didn’t you when I couldn’t pay yet for the past several weeks.”

Rantaro looked away from her for a while with a small scowl on his face before glancing at her annoyingly and said “Jeez…you sure know how to negotiate.” 

“I’m a psychologist, so…it’s just my thing to know how to talk to my patients…I think.” Nicole shrugged. 

“You know, you too looked very close.” Thorax said, shocking the both of them.

“As if!” Rantaro scoffed.

“N-No…we’re just acquaintances.” Nicole stated, looking through her iPad in a huff. But…a faint blush appeared on her face. 

“W-well…I-I guess I wouldn’t know because-” Before he could finish, he let out another hiss which seemed to get Frost to growl and show off his teeth, which seemed to made Thorax flinch while Nicole scratched him underneath the chin, which seemed to calm down Frost. “S-sorry…”

“No need to apologize, you’re still learning.” Nicole assured with a soft smile. “But for now, we mustn’t let the others know much about you yet. So…let’s keep you hidden till the time is right. Don’t worry, I’m sure they’ll trust you.”

“O-Okay…” Thorax nodded nervously before looking over at the window, seeing it the sun shining brightly. “Say…where are the rest of your friends?”

“Hmm…I guess minding their own business or possibly in the home-ship doing some things on their own. I don’t know…” Nicole shrugged, still looking over her iPad. “But I’m sure they’re having fun.”

“Meh, I don’t care what they’re doing as long as they don’t bother me and my little business.” Rantaro scoffed.

Nicole stared at him for a while before letting out a small gasp. Rantaro narrowed his eyes at him and asked “What?”

“….Nothing.” Nicole shrugged before turning to her patient and said “So now…let’s continue on with our little therapy.”

“Oh…Okay.” Thorax nodded while Rantaro sighed and rolled his eyes before taking his leave.

“I don’t even know why I bother…” Rantaro muttered before walking over the elevator. Nicole glances at him as he waits for the elevator.

“….Hmm…” Nicole hummed in thought, watching him walking into the elevator as the doors closes. “Just….why? Why are you feeling loneliness?”

“Umm…Nicole?” Nicole blinked a few times before looking over at Thorax, who was trying to gain her attention. 

“Oh…Sorry. Let’s continue.” Nicole nodded before they continued on with their therapy. But before they could continue further, Nicole let out a small gasp as she witnessed something from her head.



Flashback

“I see…so this the meteorite that crashed land back in California, right?”

Nicole was seen wearing a lab coat and put down a package down on her table as she video-chatting with someone. She waited for a while as she was listening to what the person she was talking to was. 

“….I see. I’m still surprise that you would assign me. Then again, my skills of being a psychologist are quite advanced. So…I’ll see what I can do about it.”

With that, she ended her video-chat on her iPad before taking out a faint violet colored meteorite out of the package that was sent to her lab. She tilted her head a bit with a curious look before taking a closer look at it.

“Hmm….it would seem that the mysterious rock that was a part of that asteroid raid from a few days looks pretty alright to me.” Nicole hummed to herself before grabbing the meteorite and…it began glowing brightly as some essence slowly began creeping her body, causing her to wince in pain. “A-A…..AHHHHHHHHHHHH!”

Flashback Ended



“Ah!” Nicole gasped, showing off her scared look.

“N-Nicole! Are you okay?!” Thorax asked in concern.

“…..I’m fine.” Nicole recovered quickly from her shocked as she formed back a calmed look. “I-it was just some minor headache….but I’m alright. Let’s just continue.”

“A-Are you sure? You looked-”

“Let us continue please.” She furrow her brows to form a serious and stern look at Thorax, who flinched a bit before smiling nervously before nodding as they continued with their therapy together. While they were busy talking, Nicole couldn’t help but wonder what that was. Why did it just randomly appeared?

“Could it have been…our memories? Hmm…interesting…”



Meanwhile

“Are you almost done arranging the clotheslines, Kaede?”

“Yeah, just almost done.” 

Kaede and Rarity were too focused doing their little jobs with designing the perfect outline of a skirt that they were making together back at Carousel Bouquet. Right now, Kaede was almost done stitching it while Rarity was checking it over to see if Kaede made any mistakes with it.

With one last stitch, Kaede wiped away a sweat from her brow as Rarity examined the outline with her reading glasses.

“Hmmmmm….” Rarity stared at it for a while before smiling in satisfaction. “I say it looks stellar! I am quite amazed by how well you done, Kaede darling!”

“Thanks Rarity! I guess it was totally worth it to make the perfect outline for more than a hour.” Kaede stretched her back a bit, hearing a cracking sound. “O-Ow…Man, it’s aching.”

“Don’t worry bout that, I’m sure a lovely trip to the spa could work now that we’re done with all the designs.” Rarity giggled.

“That’s a relief! Been a while since I ever been to the spa!” Kaede said in excitement and joy. “I’m so glad that we’re finally taking a break. Been a while since we had any fun since the wedding.”

“I’ll say.” Rarity nodded in agreement as the two walked out of the Carousel Boutique before Rarity used her magic to levitate some keys as she locked the doors from outside. Soon, the two girls began walking through town as Kaede looks around, seeing everypony doing their own businesses as always.

“Jeez, Ponyville sure hasn’t changed a bit, huh?” Kaede joked.

“Well yes, same as usual I suppose.” Rarity sighed before softly smiling. “But even so, don’t you just love the days where it’s always calm and peaceful?”

“Yeah, I suppose so.” Kaede shrugged before smiling. “But the ones I mostly love is trying out new things in life.”

“Really?” Rarity asked curiously. “Well you did say that you worked as a part-time maid, and did an after-school activity about sewing. I mean, how else could I tell how good you were with the dresses and clothing we made for our friends back at the wedding.”

“I know…” Kaede’s eyes sparkled in joy. “You see, I’m the type of girl who wants to try out many things in life. I mean, sure my step-family may have been neglecting ever since my dad remarried my step-mother, but I never gave up. I wanted to help out anyone as I can.”

“Well that there is quite a lovely thing you would do, Kaede.” Rarity praised, which made Kaede rubbed the back of her head with a light blush on her face.

“T-thanks Rarity…” Kaede thanked before humming in thought. “But you know…I always wanted to prove that I’m not useless.”

“Really? Seems to me that you done pretty well to me.” Rarity assured with a grin. “You always help me out on my dresses, and watched over Carrie, and Fluttershy back at that dreadful Changeling invasion.”

“True, but I wanna help you guys fight. I wished I could find something that I’m good at…” Kaede sighed. 

“Cheer up Kaede darling, surely that you’ll find a weapon like Ren, Mason, and Rantaro possessed. Besides, I think you’re pretty great with who you are.” Rarity smiled at her friend.

“Huh? You really think so?” Kaede asked in surprise.

“Of course! I think you’re quite an excellent human.” Rarity nodded, which made Kaede chuckled with a smile on her face.

“Thanks Rares! You’re right about that, but still though, my talent on costume-making and such on taking care of others in a way.” Kaede smiled.

“Well ain’t that the truth, darling?” Rarity giggled while the two girls were almost there to the Ponyville Spa. Before any of them could walk further, Kaede brought up a random question.

“Say Rarity, I was wondering about something.”

“Oh? What is it?” Rarity asked curiously.

“It’s about Mason…” Kaede turned to her with a concern look and asked “Remember that little offer Shining Armor and Princess Celestia made? What do you think his decision would be?”

“O-oh…” That seemed to gotten Rarity a bit worried about that decision. She thought for a while before smiling awkwardly at her friend and replied “W-well…I’m not sure. It is Mason’s decision, after all.”

“I know, but for him to get an offer like that. It must be an honor.” Kaede smiled softly as she stared at the blue skies. “Hmm…Mason is extremely loyal with us. He’s an expert cook, fighter, and pretty much…anything a bodyguard for a royal family could do. You know, I think Mason has the talents to be one.”

“True, but at the same time…he would have to leave all of us.” Rarity pointed out, which made Kaede realized that before sighing sadly.

“Oh…right. You make a good point.” Rarity looked over to see a couple sitting down on the table and talking about things before they kissed each other. Rarity sighed happily and began daydreaming about her and Mason on a date. “Ooooh…Mason….”

“Huh? Rarity? What about Mason?” Kaede asked curiously, which seemed to snapped her back to reality. 

“W-w-what? O-Oh…it was just something about him.” Rarity coughed nervously before she said “You know…how he has Elena back in his world, right?”

“Oh right, Princess Elena. She was the one who Mason promised to protect with all his life. He gained extremely loyalty and learned to stay on our side, he even tried to buy us time when we tried to go after the Elements of Harmony while he and Princess Luna fought against Queen Chrysalis.” Kaede summarized.

“Indeed.” Rarity softly smiled. “Mason is quite the man of the hour. He is someone to admire. I know that he has a happy life, and I know that he’s already in love with his girlfriend back in your world.” 

Rarity sadly smiled upon realizing it. She may love Mason, but he already found his love.

“It’s the truth….I really like him, and if I tried to date him, I would end up stealing him from his true lover. I think it’s right for me to not force him to love me. It’ll be my selfish desire, after all. I want him to be happy…”

Rarity looked over at the sky with a sad smile as Kaede looks at her in worried.

“Hey Rarity…are you okay?” Kaede asked in concern, snapping Rarity back to her senses. Rarity gives her a soft and nervous smiled before replying “No, I’m fine Kaede. Now then, enough talk about that. Let’s head over to the spa and relax.”

“Oh right, sorry about that.” Kaede chuckled. “You just looked really worried about Mason. I was wondering because of how he might leave us if he accepted the offer…” Kaede folded her arms with a sigh. “But you know, we’ve grown quite a little close with each other to become good friends. But for him to just go to that Royal Guard Academy for six whole months…it would be a challenge and we wouldn’t see him for a while.”

“But it won’t be a long good bye. He’ll be back and become a full-fledged Royal Guard just like Twilight’s brother.” Rarity giggled with a soft smile. “I have a feeling that he’ll be someone that’ll always be there to protect us.”

“I have a feeling that you’re right. After all, Mason will always be there for any of us to protect.” Kaede nodded in agreement before they finally arrived in front of the spa. “But come on, no need to worried Rarity. I’m sure we’ll all enjoy a nice dip in the bath.”

“Indeed…also, I think my hooves need some hoof-icures what with today on those dresses we made.” Rarity looked at her hooves while Kaede rolled her eyes as the two entered the spa to prepare a long bath for today. The moment they stepped in, Kaede froze as something began to play in her head.

Flashback



“Ha…ha….ha….ha….” Kaede was running through the halls of a house with a scared look as she was being chased by an older looking woman and her two daughters. 

“Go away! Get away from me!” Kaede screamed out as she immediately raced through the halls before running through a door and closing it shut, locking it in the process. Kaede sighed in relief before it began banging intensely.

“Open the door, brat!”

“Yeah! We just want to teach you a lesson about trying to escape!”

“Yeah! We just want our prize money or don’t you wanna satisfy us like you try to do, sis?”

“Leave me alone! I’m not your sister!” Kaede screamed before clenching her hand as she looked down and saw the key she had in her hand. She looked around before seeing a vent in her house. She made a relieved look before stepping over a desk and pulling off the vent bars as the doors began banging again and again as it made Kaede scared again before she climbed through the vent and crawled through it. Kaede doesn’t know how long it took to go through them, but she managed to find another vent that lead possibly away from her stepfamily.

With such force, she pushed the vent opened and gotten out as she sighed in relief before jumping down, face-flat.

“O-Ow…” Kaede muttered before seeing the front door as she raced down the stairs and used the house keys to unlock it, but the moment she placed the keys in the lock.

“Found you, you little brat!” Kaede turned pale as she immediately turned around to see her step mother and step sisters were running towards us. “You are so dead!”


“AHHHHHH!” Kaede let out a scream and closed her eyes in fear till a bright light shined, blocking any vision.

Flashback Ended



“Kaede darling?” Kaede blinked a few times before noticing Rarity giving her a confused look, along with the spa employees. Kaede looked around in confusion before asking “W-what? But…what was…?”

“Kaede, you’ve been standing there for a while now, is there something?” Rarity questioned.

“O-oh…it’s nothing. It was just something I thought of, that’s all.” Kaede chuckled nervously, much to Rarity’s confusion. “Well anyway, why not we just go over and take some relaxation?”

“Well…alright then, darling.” Rarity shrugged as the two of them walked over the desk to pay for their spa treatment. While they were doing so, Kaede couldn’t help but thought what she just saw.

“What…was that? Why was I running away from my step mother and sisters? Did I do something wrong?”



Elsewhere At Sweet Apple Acres

“48….49….50!” With a great leap off the tree branch, Mason landed on the ground with his sweater off, showing off his lean body through his grey undershirt. He stretched his back a little before resting over near a tree to catch a little break.

“Mason!” Mason looked over to his right to see Applejack walking over, carrying two buckets of apples strapped to her back as she held a smile on her face. “Break time’s over, remember? You can stop exercising and training and get back to work.”

“R-right…Okay Applejack.” Mason smiled softly and nodded before getting back up. “Sorry, I guess I forgotten to hear the bell ringing.”

“Nah, it’s fine. Just don’t forget next time.” Applejack assured before walking off. “By the way, you better hurry up with the last few fields. Big Mac is just planning to sell some apples over by the market later on today after you both go and grab your sisters.”

“Right. Thank you.” Mason nodded as Applejack began taking her leave. Finally regaining his breath, Mason got up and gazed at the tree he was sitting down from before and…

“YAAAAH!” With one hard kick onto the tree, multiple apples fell down on the ground. Mason smiled before walking over and collecting the apples, but while he did…

CRUNCH! CRUNCH! CRUNCH!

Mason looked around and began hearing crunching sounds.

“Strange…that almost sounds like…” With narrowed eyes, Mason walked over to one of the trees and looked behind them to see… 

“You!” Mason glared upon seeing who the culprit was, eating a bunch of apples in his arms. Jack looked over behind him and saw Mason giving him a stern glare as his mouth was covered with many apples as he mumbled “What?”

“Jack Yamaki…what are you doing? And why are you eating all those apples?!” Mason demanded, his face showing off anger.

With one big gulp, Jack dropped the many apples before stretching his back and scratching his butt before asking “What? I was hungry.”

“Yet you realize that this is an apple farm. The same apple farm that you helped out on when the Flim Flam Brothers came and tried to take over?” Mason reminded, raising a brow while his arms crossed.

“So?” Jack scoffed, letting out a massive burp before rubbing his stomach. “Ahh…that hit the spot.”

Mason gave him a dark glare, which seemed to tick off Jack a bit. 

“You do know there’s a rule here on Sweet Apple Acres, right? You ate it, you bought it.” Mason stated sternly.

“Well that’s some messed-up rule.” Jack scoffed, crossing his arms. “It’s alright, I’ll get some of your Ren’s money and pay for it.”

“Leave Ren out of this. It’s his allowance and he can do whatever he wants with it.” Mason stated, glaring at him.

“Hmph! Well it wasn’t my fault!” Jack exclaimed angrily. “I was just hungry!”

“You ate breakfast just two hours ago!” Mason argued.

“Yet it still wasn’t enough!”

“Oh my god! Just how obsessive with food are you?!”

“What do you expect?! I have a massive appetite!”

“Yeah, I wonder why…”

“What’s that supposed to mean?!”

“You’re fat and irresponsible, that’s what I mean.”

“What you say?!”

“HEY!” The two turned around to see Big Macintosh stomping over to them with a harsh glare at the boys. “Keep it down you two!”

“Forgive me Big Macintosh.” Mason apologizes before glaring at Jack and said “But I caught him from eating nearly all of the apples at the orchard.”

Big Mac glared at him, which made Jack growled at them and exclaimed “So what?! I was hungry, alright?! I couldn’t get any because I don’t got any dough and nobody would offer me food, alright?!”

Big Mac growled and narrowed his eyes at Jack, who crossed his arms stubbornly.

“So? It was just a couple of apples I ate. You have plenty of them around.” Jack scoffed, earning two glares from both Mason and Big Mac. “…I don’t have any money!”

Big Mac scowled at him with an angry glare while Mason tapped his foot with narrowed eyes that formed into a darkened look.

“Well what the hell am I supposed to do?!” Jack exclaimed.

“Then work here and paid off your debt.” Mason suggested coldly.

“Eeyup!” Big Mac nodded in agreement before huffing and taking his leave. “You ate it, you bought it!”

“Uhhh….” Jack sweat-dropped upon realizing on the scene he was in. “….What the hell did I just get myself into?”

“You gotten a new job apparently till you pay off the debt. Now get to it.” Mason stated sternly, which made Jack grumbled in anger.

“Bastard…” Jack sighed.

With that, Jack had no choice but to pay for the eaten apples that he ‘unintentionally’ ate. He had to take off his overcoat and showed off only wearing his undershirt, but it showed his gut as he and Mason got to work. Big Mac let Applejack and Granny Smith what was up, and…let’s say, Jack’s gotten lucky that Applejack was busy tending another orchard from the other side of the farm. Otherwise, he would have faced her wrath. 

Mason and Jack were walking over in front of the orchard as Mason smirked and said “Hmph! You’re lucky that this is the last orchard Jack.”

“Ha! Must be my lucky day!” Jack cracked his knuckles with a cocky grin. “Let’s get to work! This is will be a piece of cake!”

“Trust me, it’ll be hard to get them down.” Mason smirked. “There’s no way someone that husky get them down.”

“Oh yeah?!” Jack growled before running over one tree before tackling the tree, making some apples fall down. “Ha! How you like them apples?!”

Mason rolled his eyes with a soft grin before walking over and knocking out a random tree, making all of the apples fall down, much to Jack’s shock.

“No…how do you ‘them’ apples.” Mason smirked, which seemed to irritate Jack.

“Oh yeah? We’ll see about that!” Jack yelled out before he kept tackling the tree from before, dropping some more apples in the process. Mason smirked at him before he went back to work and began using many fighting techniques to take down many trees down. Jack kept tackling many trees to drop as many apples as fast as he could. While they were too busy taking down many apples, they weren’t aware that the Apple Family have been watching over through binoculars.

“Looks like those boys are really going out on work.” Applejack smirked.

“Well those big whippersnapper better pay the debt!” Granny Smith barked, waving her cane around. 

“Eeyup.” Big Mac nodded as they watched the two boys racing through the last fields to take down all of its trees. 

One Hour Later

After that, the two sat down on the ground with heavy sighs as the two were sweating too hard which was obvious judging how sweaty they are and how all of their sweat gotten their undershirts all sweaty. They were sitting down at a random tree while recovering from exhaustion.

“Ha…gotta admit kid, you got some skills.” Jack chuckled before panting. “Oh man…never been this tired in my life.”

“You know…I’m surprise a guy like you could go as fast as you were before.” Mason panted, forming a smirk on his face. 

“Well duh…I…work out…a lot…back in my…world…” Jack grinned before recovering a bit. He patted on his gut and commented “Just because I’m husky, doesn’t mean I can run as fast as any of ya!”

“True…you really surprise me out there.” Mason chuckled before looking at the sky. “Heh…I wouldn’t be too surprise if Shining asked you to join the academy.”

“Huh? You mean that place where you trained as a Royal Guard?” Mason nodded with a soft smile as Jack huffed and said “Heh, you’re right. But I rather not. It’s not a good thing for a guy like me. Once a biker, always a biker.”

“I see…” Mason sighed before looking at the skies. “Hmm…you know, I’ve been thinking on Shining’s offer for a while.”

“What?” Jack asked, scratching his belly.

“About joining in on becoming a Royal Guard. I’m just wondering about that…” Jack turned to Mason with a bewildered look as he asked “What? You’re serious about that?”

“Of course.” Mason nodded with a sigh before forming a somewhat worried look. “But…I’m still not sure about that decision if I should go or not. I mean, I got you guys and Carrie to look after.”

“Hey, I can take care of myself without any of ya looking after me.” Jack scoffed. “In case you forgot, I bypass you four years of age.”

Mason made an amused smile at him and said “True, but you still act like a child with a temper tantrum.”

Jack growled angrily while Mason chuckled to himself before asking “But still, I’m serious about my decision.”

“You’re serious? Why bother?” Jack asked. “Didn’t you say that you’re some bodyguard for some princess.”

“W-well yes…” Mason nodded before sighing. “But we’ve been here for a year now, well…more like you, Rantaro, and Nicole been here for a few months. We know that we’ll find a way to go back, but there’s that possibility that we might not be able go back home soon and it could take years…”

Mason looked at Jack with a sad look and continued “I know that our friends and families might be worried about us…but like Ren once said, we need to believe that we’ll find a home and maybe our lost memories might be the key to search out a way home.”

“Yeah, I bet my old man is probably wondering where the hell I went. He probably sent out the whole Yamaki gang around the country to search out for me…but as a man…” Jack grinned cockily and said “Hmph! I can take care of myself. I’m a biker and heir to the Yamki Biker Gang, so I know how to fight on.”

“No argument there.” Mason shook his head with an amused smile before saying “But still…I’m not sure. I mean, what’s the right choice and what’s the wrong one?”

“Just pick whatever it’s right.” Jack suggested, much to Mason’s surprise. “I-I mean…it’s your choice. You can’t keep relying on anyone to make your decisions. You’re your own person so the decisions must be made by yourself.”

“Huh…” Mason blinked in surprise, which confused Jack.

“What?”

“Nothing, it’s just that…I’m surprised that someone like you would even say that.” Jack stiffened before huffing away with a light blush and muttered “W-whatever….I don’t care. Just wanna give ya advice…”

“Yeah…” Mason chuckled before remembering something. “Oh yeah, how’s Jamie? Has he been training with ya lately? I couldn’t arrive for our morning training because of my part-time job here on Applejack’s family’s farm.”

“Meh, he came and I have to say, he’s improved.” Jack explained before chuckling to him. “But those marks on his face, it still makes me laugh to this day.”

“True…I’m still wondering where they came from and why?” Mason wondered. “It’s just so weird…”

“Meh, it’s probably nothing.” Mason gave Jack a deadpanned look and asked “How is growing two marks similar to a pony’s Cutie-Mark not nothing to be concern about that?”

“I-I don’t know! Quit questioning me!” Jack exclaimed, which further Mason’s disbelief at that.

“Whatever…” Mason sighed before looking at the skies. “But even so…what am I supposed to do? I mean, I don’t wanna leave Carrie behind…she’s my little sister and I don’t wanna disappoint her.”

“True, you guys always stick together like glue. That’s the whole point with family.” Jack stated before taking out two apples from his pockets before tossing one to Mason. Mason caught it and blinked in surprise upon seeing one of the orchard’s apples in his hand before glaring at Jack. “What? You’ll get paid and you can use that money to pay off the apples while I pay off my debt for eating the apples here. See?”

“….Fine.” Mason sighed before biting into the juicy apple, along with Jack. “Hmm…maybe I’ll give it more thought when the time is right.”

“Well…good luck with that. But…” Jack wrapped his arm around and gave him a noogie. “Ha ha! You’re gonna make the right decision!”

Mason grew a bit irritated on the noogie he was receiving, but couldn’t help but smile and laughed along with his friend till he widened his eyes as something began playing in his head.



Flashback

Mason was seen walking with Elena and Carrie through a clothe store. Mason was carrying tons of bag with clothes on them. They walked through one of the dressing stalls as Elena grabbed one of them and said “Alright, we’re gonna try out the new clothes. Is that alright Mason?”

“Yes indeed Elena.” Mason nodded with a smile. “Good luck you two.”

“Yay! Yay! Come on Elena!” Carrie grabbed Elena’s right hand as she pulled her into one of the dressing stalls. Elena chuckled with her foster sister as the two began changing their clothes while Mason leaned against the wall before he noticed some people walking by as they were looking at him and began whispering about something and that was mainly about him…and his sister.

“Is that him?”

“Yeah, I think so. He’s one of them.”

“To think that he’s the lucky ones to go through with it.”

“Wasn’t there supposed to be some little girl with him?”

“I think so…”

“Yeah well…why is it that he gets to go through it?”

Mason gave them all a dark glare, causing the group of people flinching before running off. Mason looks back at his sister and lover, who were starting to come out of the dressing stall as they were wearing normal clothing that middle-class people wear.

“I say that this may not be my style, but I can’t help but feel like a normal girl in this!” Elena giggled.

“Me too!” Carrie nodded in agreement before turning to her brother. “Hey big brother! Do you think me and Elena look amazing?”

“O-oh…” Mason covered his mouth with his scarf with a massive blush around his face, nearly turning his face red. “Y-you two…look amazing as ever…you two are so stellar as ever.”

“Thank you Mason.” Elena kissed him on the forehead, causing Mason to blush more while Carrie giggled at them before noticing a bunch of people staring right at them. 

Carrie formed a concern yet scared look before hiding behind Elena and Mason as she called “Big brother? Elena?”

The two looked at her in surprise before looking at what she was staring at the group of people, who were whispering and muttering to each other.

“Why is the princess with them?”

“Maybe she haven’t heard?”

“Yeah right, she’s harboring one of those who’s immune to it.”

“I guess so…”

Mason narrowed his eyes before turning to Elena and Carrie as he said “Elena, Carrie, let’s go.”

“Huh?” Elena and Carrie turned to Mason with confusion on their faces.

“Big brother? What’s wrong?” Carrie asked worriedly. “I-Is it because…?”

“I-it’s nothing…let’s head back with the rest of our family.” Mason suggested, which made Elena hesitate for a moment before nodding as she and Carrie immediately headed back to the dressing stall and in five minutes, they headed out in their normal attire as they began making their way out of here as Mason held both of their hands. 

Mason looked back at the sneers and suspicious looks from the other people, causing him to glare back at him before sighing to himself.

“Why…..Why us?”

Flashback Ended



“Ngh!” Mason winced, much to Jack’s confusion as he ended his noogie and looked at him with concern.

“Hey, what’s wrong with ya? I didn’t even given that hard of a noogie.” Jack stated. Mason shook his head as he placed a hand on his head and replied “I don’t know…it was something I remembered…”

“Huh? Remembered?” Jack asked.

“I-I don’t know…but I’m fine now.” Mason sighed in relief.

“Heh, for a moment there, I thought you couldn’t handle one of my noogies.” Jack laughed, causing Mason to give him a deadpan look.

“No, that wasn’t it.” Mason sighed before muttering “Never mind…”

“Well anyway, I should keep on working with the rest of these trees. Hopefully, I get paid and managed to use that cash to pay off that recently made debt.” Jack scratched the back of his head before making a cocky grin. “Heh, don’t worry…I promise I’ll pay for it.”

“You better.” Mason smirked before getting back up while Jack looked at Mason for a while, noticing his lean build. Mason noticed this before raising a brow and asked “Is there something wrong?”

“Nothing, just that…heh, you got a nice bod there.” Jack teased, nudging him a bit before patting his gut, making it jiggle a bit. “But my gut is a man’s way to be strong!”

“No…it doesn’t.” Mason replied with a blank look. “And frankly…I think maybe you should lose some weight.”

“Hmph! Says you!” Jack scoffed, flexing his arm a bit. “I think ladies will dig a guy like me.”

“The day I see you date anyone, whether it’s a human or pony, is the day I would get sit by you big fat butt.” Mason mused himself, ignoring the growl from Jack. But before any of them could say anything…

“WHOOOOOAAAAAAA!” And just by a second, both Mason and Jack were tackled by a blue blur, landing straight towards the apple orchard, knocking the three, including the one who landed on them, down for the count. But thanks to that unexpected turn, a faint memory began playing inside of Jack’s head.



Flashback

“Are you frigging serious?!”

Jack slammed his fist on a metal table as he was seen speaking to a bunch of men wearing black suits and dark sunglasses. 

“You come to MY home, come and tell ME about this lazy stupid-crappy thing about some stupid project, and you all think that’s perfect for us?! No frigging way I ain’t doing this!”

“Sir, please calm down and-”

“Shut it!” Jack snarled and scowled angrily at them. “This situation is already right up my butt and you think that you could make me do what you say! Forget it, I’m out of here!”

Jack immediately turned around and began taking his leave, wanting to forget about this scene and headed out the door.

“Sir wait! If you just-”

“SHADDUP!” Jack screamed, causing the two men to flinch in fear before he headed out of the door and slammed it shut, ignoring the two men’s pleas.

“Hmph…Saving the seeds of hope, my butt…” 

Flashback Ended



“U-Ugh…” Jack and Mason slowly got up and looked around before noticing a familiar blue pony laying on top of them. “Rainbow Dash?!”

“W-what the?!” Rainbow Dash immediately gotten up from the ground and shook her head before glaring at them and yelled out “What are you two doing here?!”

“We should be asking you the same damn question as well, Skittles!” Jack exclaimed, sneering at her. “What are you doing landing on top of us! My stomach isn’t some pin cushion for you to just land on!”

“I wasn’t trying to! I just had a misdirection on one of my tricks and accidentally landed here! I wasn’t expecting any of you two to show up and me landing on you both!” Rainbow Dash retorted, glaring at Jack.

“Well maybe you need to pay attention more, Skittles!”

“Why not you not end up whenever I’m practicing my stunts, fatty!”

“Oh yeah?! You want me to come over and fight ya?! I ain’t scared of fighting off a pony, specifically a girl!”

“Oh yeah?! Those are fighting words!”

“Enough you two!” Mason intervened into their conversation before sternly glaring at them. “You two need to stop fighting and just calm down! You’re just making things more worse than usual if you two end up doing this!”

“Hmph! Fine!” Rainbow Dash and Jack huffed as they crossed their arms and looked away from him.

“Oh god…” Mason face-palmed before looking over at the crater they were in. “What am I gonna tell Applejack about this?”

“Oh stop it, she’ll be fine.” Jack shrugged till they heard a loud sound.

“WHAT IS THIS?!” They looked back and saw Applejack and Big Mac staring at the big crater that appeared right in front of them. Big Mac and Applejack stared in horror upon seeing this as the former fainted while the latter glared angrily at them.

“Who did this? Who’s responsible for this?!” Applejack demanded, glaring angrily at the three.

Rainbow Dash, Jack, and Mason widened their eyes upon seeing Applejack like this since they never see the farm pony this angry before. Jack and Rainbow Dash looked at each other before they started pointing at fingers at each other.

“She/He did it!” Jack and Rainbow Dash yelled out while Mason face-palmed and shook his head annoyingly.

“Oh my god…why me?”



Meanwhile

“No way! Seriously?!” 

Carrie nodded with an excited grin as the Cutie-Mark crusaders grew overjoyed by this revelation. Today, Ms. Cheerliee gave them a 15-minute lunch break while everypony else were busy chatting with each other. Right now, Carrie and her friends, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were in the midst of talking about what they’ve been through.

“Can you believe it?! Fighting off all those Changelings! You’re surely famous now Carrie!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed in excitement.

“Ha! Wouldn’t be surprised that you gained a Cutie-Mark of being a hero!” Scootaloo joked, causing Carrie to nervously smiled at her and replied “Umm…I’m not sure if that’s a talent at all. And even so, I didn’t do anything but cheer on for my friends.”

“Well we may not have seen the whole fight…” Apple Bloom formed a grin and said “But golly, wasn’t it an event? I never would have imagined that Princess Cadance that we all saw was a fake this whole time!”

“Yeah, what a twist right?” Scootaloo nudged her while Carrie scratched the back of her head and said “Well…I’m not sure of that count as a twist at all since she has been rude to me, my big brother, and the others by calling us names and such.”

“Meh, details.” Scootaloo waved it off.

“So Carrie…” Sweetie Belle turned to Carrie and asked “Is it true about your brother given an offer to attend the academy to be trained as a Royal Guard?”

“Oh yeah, Shining Armor and Princess Celestia thought it would be something that he could be good at. Though, big brother has the qualifications to be one considering just how strong and muscular he is.” Carrie explained with a soft smile. “But I’m wondering if he’s still deciding on that.”

“Well he should!” Apple Bloom cheered, nearly falling off her seat as she smiled at her human friend and said “I mean, to be accepted into the Royal Guard Academy is like an honor! He has the talent of a special agent!”

“No, a ninja!” Scootaloo argued.

“He’s actually a bodyguard for my foster sister, Elena.” Carrie reminded them.

“But wait, if he does decides to go…” Sweetie Belle looked at her with a confused and concern look on her face. “If he decides to go to the academy, then that means he’s practically leaving you, the others, and…and….Rarity!”

“Oh…” Carrie slumped down with a sadden look before gazing out at the window. “Yeah, I know that…but I want big brother to keep going on. I mean, he’s always protective me. I wanna be somebody that can take care of myself.”

“What are you saying Carrie?!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed in surprise. 

“Well…it’s not gonna be long.” Carrie assured with a soft grin. “I mean, it’s only gonna be six months till he graduates and becomes a part of the Royal Guard.”

“But still…! It’s so long!” Sweetie Belle complained, slamming her head on the desk.

“She’s right. I mean, won’t you miss him?” Scootaloo questioned. “If it was Rainbow Dash, I would grow sad and heartbroken that she would one day leave Ponyville and won’t be back for who knows how long if she ever became a Wonderbolt!”

“True, but I gotta keep cheering on for big brother.” Carrie stated with a cheery smile. “Back then, whenever he and Elena were having small dates with each other, I had a feeling that they would be together forever and get married someday and one day, moved into their own home. I was pretty bummed out and depressed that someday it would happen…”

Carrie placed her head on the desk before looking out the window, seeing a baby bird and its mother together. 

“So one day, big brother and Elena went over and saw me acting so gloomy. So when I told them on how I feel, they understood and big brother told me something.” Carrie turned to them as she began mimicking her brother’s voice. “Carrie, even if that is true, we would always be there for you. No matter how far or close we are, we’ll be there in by heart. Together from afar in the hearts we are connected.”

“Wow, that’s some pretty emotional stuff there.” Apple Bloom smiled a bit before sniffling.

“Yeah, and I’m not sure if my sister could handle him leaving.” Sweetie Belle added. “I mean, she practically has the hots for your brother, after all.”

“I know, but in a way, Rarity reminds me of Elena.” Carrie said honestly. “I mean, she’s so generous and so kind and would sacrifice anything to make someone happy or solve a problem, no matter how dirty she gets.”

“Hmm…good point.” Sweetie Belle shrugged before asking “So…what are you gonna do then?”

“I’m gonna keep on cheering him on. Besides, I’ve been learning much from big brother a lot.” Carrie giggled. “I’ve learned how to do things like how he does.”

“Well that’s pretty cool.” Scootaloo complimented.

“Well I’m learning how to apple-buck just like my sister and brother!” Apple Bloom stated.

“And I’m learning how to do cooking ‘properly’ or what my sister told me.” Sweetie Belle added.

“I’m planning on getting Rainbow Dash to make me her apprentice! That way, I’ll be the greatest stunt flyer in all of Equestria just like her!” Scootaloo exclaimed in joy, which made the others laughed. As they were laughing, Carrie froze as a faint something began playing in her head.



Flashback

“Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill!”

Carrie looked outside of the mansion, seeing a lot of people outside of the mansion’s gates as it formed into a mob as they were trying to bypass the gate system to get through the house. Soon, she heard the doors opened as she looked over and saw her brother and Elena walking in.

“Carrie, come on. We need to go now.” Mason said sternly.

“Huh?” Carrie turned to them with a worried look on her face. 

“Don’t worry Carrie, our parents are preparing the private jet. We’ll be leaving to one of our summer cottages to stay there in comfort. Don’t worry, not many people will ever find you guys there.” Elena assured. 

“Elena, I think that includes you as well.” Mason stated, but Elena shook her head with a soft smile and said “No, I’m not like you or Carrie, Mason. I’m not immune to that virus.”

“I know, but still…you’re still my main concern.” Mason reminded her.

“Big brother? Big sis Elena? Are we…gonna be okay?” Carrie asked worriedly before racing over and hugging them tightly, letting out some tears. “P-Please…tell me that we’ll be alright…”

“Don’t worry…we’ll be alright. I promise.” Mason assured with a soft smile.

“He’s right Carrie…” Elena bend down to her height and gives them a soft smile. “And don’t you worry, I promise that I’ll use my family’s power to find a cure to all of this. That way, everyone can be happy again. Our kingdom is already in ruins due to that meteor impact from the last few months, and this happened…I wanna make you and Mason to live perfect lives.”

“E-Elena…” Carrie cried out softly before hugging him tightly, letting out tears while she hugged her foster sister back. Mason hugged the two of them and smiled softly as they heard Carrie sobbing.

“I-it’s not fair…why?…Why do we get to live?…But not you?”

Flashback Ended



“Carrie? Carrie!” Carrie blinked a few times before looking around, seeing everypony in class looking at her weirdly as she looked over to see Ms. Cheerilee looking at her in worried. “Ms. Carrie Hunter? Are you alright?”

“H-huh? Oh…sorry.” Carrie apologized before letting out a yawn. “Just…tired, that’s all.”

“Oh, I see. Well please don’t sleep in class.” Ms. Cheerilee lectured softly. “Now then class, let’s begin with our next lesson.”

Carrie blushed a bit in embarrassment while her friends looked at her in worried and concern.

“Carrie, what happened back there?” Scootaloo asked in worried. “You’ve been sitting there with a blank look for a while the moment Ms. Cheerilee walked back into the classroom.”

“O-Oh…It’s nothing. I just…sorta froze there.” Carrie assured with a soft smile.

“Well what happened there?” Sweetie Belle asked in worried. Carrie hummed for a while before answering “I’m…not sure. I can’t remember a bit…”

“Huh? Remember?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Maybe next time.” Carrie replied. “I promise.”

“Well…alright.” Apple Bloom nodded as they looked back at Ms. Cheerilee as they listened through their lessons. While doing so, Carrie began thinking on what she saw on what played in her head.

“When….did that ever happened? I don’t remember much at all. Maybe the others knows about it?”



Meanwhile in the Home-Ship

Back there, Ren and Fluttershy are seen in the arcade room at the Round One floor as they were playing a Foosball table that they were able to find. They decided to explore around a bit after Fluttershy finished tending her animals for the day. Ren decided to invite her over to the arcade room and teach her how to play games that are from his and the others’ world.

As they kept playing, Fluttershy managed to score at least one point.

“Yay!” Fluttershy shouted, but it was too soft for it to be heard out. 

“Nice job Fluttershy, you done pretty well.” Ren complimented. “I say you’re getting the hang of it.”

“Thank you Ren. I never played games before in my life.” Fluttershy stated with a soft smile. “Well…that’s mostly because I never had that many friends when I was a filly at Flight Camp back at Cloudsdale.”

“Well hey, that was in the past.” Ren reminded her. “This is the present now. You got tons of friends by your side, even me.”

“Tee-hee! I-I guess you’re right…” Fluttershy giggled before hearing her stomach rumbled a bit. “Oh dear…I guess we’ve been playing around here for quite a while that I haven’t eaten in a while.”

“Then why not we head over to the mall area? I mean, we can some salad there.” Ren offered, causing Fluttershy to be surprised by that.

“Y-you really want me to go there with you? L-Like on a date?” Fluttershy asked in surprise.

“W-well…I wouldn’t exactly call it a date. I’m not good with relationships like we are in right now, but I want to try it out for you Flutters.” Ren scratched the back of his head with a smile on his face. 

“Heh heh, I-I see…” Fluttershy nodded in agreement with a soft smile and blush on her face as the two began taking leave off of the Round One Arcade, where we found Kodiak laying on a nearby sofa cushion as he let out a long sigh before noticing us leaving.

“Huh? Oh hey you guys, you finally done with your little date?” Kodi teased, causing the two of them to blushed in embarrassment as the two of us shouted “Kodiak!”

“What? I was just asking.” Kodi smiled innocently before stretching his back and said “So what’s up? We headed back?”

“Nah, we’re heading to the mall district so that we can get something to eat.” Ren explained.

“Well I am getting a little bit hungry. Okay, let’s go.” Kodi smiled happily. 

“Well I guess I could eat some salad and anything edible as log as it isn’t…you know.” Ren stiffened upon remembering what happened back then. Everypony in Equestria knew about their appetite about eating meat, butit seemed to calm everypony down, well…almost. 

“D-don’t worry, we made a vow to only eat food here in Equestria since the food tastes very similar to what we eat back in our world.” Ren assured with a soft grin.

“You don’t have to do that, Ren. We all know you guys eat meat, so why keep eating our food? I don’t mind.” Fluttershy said confusedly. 

“But still, I don’t want you or the others feel uncomfortable eating meat in front of us.” Ren stated, which made Fluttershy realized that he had a point. 

“I see…” Fluttershy nodded before smiling softly at me. “Well I understand your reasons. Thank you, at least.”

Fluttershy flew over and kissed Ren on the forehead, causing him to blush a bit before chuckling to himself.

“Come on you guys! Let’s go to the mall!” Kodi barked excitedly before racing over to the elevator. Me and Fluttershy looked at each other with amused grins upon seeing Kodiak act like that. Man, he acts as if he’s a little kid…or Pinkie Pie. Oh well, let’s head over and see what we can eat at the food court upstairs. But before Ren could walked through the elevator’s doors, he froze as something crawled up his spine as a mysterious feeling creep up and played something in his head.



Flashback

“……….Hey, wake up.”

Ren slowly awoken from the darkness as he sees a woman’s face looking directly at him. This woman…was very familiar to them. A girl they know…

“U-ugh….what the? Where….am….I?” Ren asked, slowly getting up and finding himself in an apartment.

“Are you okay young man?” Ren turned around and saw a girl looking at him, staring at him with a curious look. “You looked like you were out for a while after I found you across the river?”

“River…?”

“And don’t bother telling me who you are, I know you’re Ren Loodan.”

“Huh?” Ren looked at the woman in surprise. “B-but how did?”

“You’re just like me. Both of our…No, the nine people that were in this project were leaked into the news and showed our identities. So of course I recognized them…especially since I gotten info from some of my co-workers at the foundation.”

“Foundation? Wait, what are you saying?” Ren looked at her with a bewildered look before slowly asking “Who…are you anyway? I haven’t seen the news that much, but I did heard about the project’s info was being leaked across the world, so I don’t know who you are. But if you’re like me, then are you…?”

“Yes…I’m also an immune. For my name…it’s…”

Flashback Ended



“N-Ngh! Ah!” Ren hissed as he held his head in pain. Fluttershy and Kodiak looked back at Ren with shocked looks and ran towards him before they could entered the elevator.

“R-Ren!” Kodiak called, running to his side. Fluttershy flew over and placed a hoof on his forehead and asked “Ren! Are you alright? Do you need help?! Do you have a fever?!”

“Y-yeah…I’m fine.” Ren groaned, rubbing his head before looking at Fluttershy and Kodiak with a concern look. “I-I didn’t worried you guys, right?”

“Of course we did! Why else did we come over and check up on you?!” Kodiak exclaimed.

“R-Ren…are you feeling alright?” Fluttershy asked in concern. 

“Y-yeah…” Ren nodded with a soft yet nervous smile. “I’m feeling alright, but right now, I’m just having a minor headache, it’s no big deal. But right now, let’s head over to the mall.”

“Well….Okay.” Fluttershy nodded before they walked over to the elevator and headed upwards towards the mall district floor. While they were still in the elevator, Ren couldn’t help but think what he just witnessed. 

“That woman…that woman I saw….that was….No way…is there more of our memories that we originally thought?…No, it’s best not to think too much. I’m sure it’s nothing…right?”



Meanwhile

“Hmm…what about this book?”

“Yeah! That’ll work well!”

Jamie and Twilight were also in the home-ship, specifically in the mall district as they were looking over the book store that they saw the day they first explored this new area for them to explore. Right now, they were off doing their book studies together.

“Hmm…I gotta say, this book looks quite good to be used, right Twilight?” Jamie questioned, looking through one of the science study books that they managed to find through the shelves. “This book here contains college-based scientific and mathematics levels like physics for example. It’s quite a hard course to learn, but I’ve been studying physics back then so I could teach you maybe.”

Jamie let out a small blush as he looked over at Twilight and began stuttering again.

“T-T-That is…if you know physics already!” Twilight giggled at his reaction before replying “That would be something to learn about. Physics is quite a hard core subject, so I never gotten the chance to learn about it. So maybe you can teach me?” She nuzzles him before saying “Besides, it’ll be something to learn something new with you, Jamie.”

“Y-yeah…” Jamie softly smiled at her and nodded. Ever since the Canterlot invasion, Twilight and Jamie’s relationship gotten a whole lot better. From being friends into finding out they have secret feelings for each other, and they’ve been wishing to talk to each other about that subject. And right now seems like the perfect time to talk. Jamie let out a curious look but held a frown as he called Twilight’s name.

“Umm…Twilight?” 

“Yeah Jamie?” Twilight turned to him with a confused look.

“Do you…remember much about the Changelings attacking Canterlot?” Jamie asked curiously.

“Yes, we’ve been there, so of course I remember, Jamie.” Twilight reminded him, forming a concern look. “Why…do you ask?”

“Well…there’s something I wanted to talk to you about.” Jamie said with a worried look.

“Well…there’s something I want to talk you about too.” Twilight sighed as the two took a deep breath and said what they were gonna say at the same time.

“I wanted to talk you about our kiss!” Twilight and Jamie blurted out together, causing the two of them to look at each other in shock as they both asked “What?”

“You first?” Jamie offered. “I-I mean…you know the saying, ladies first.”

“Well….alright. You see…I was wondering if you remember much if we…you know, kiss?” Jamie groaned upon remembering that as he began apologizing to her.

“I-I know…it was terrible…”

“No, I don’t mean that. I meant…do you really mean it? We’ve been friends for a while and yet our feelings started to grow on each other lately…you may not have known it, but while we read books together, shared facts, and do late night research and studying as well as writing down schedules for each day for me….I thought I found someone that I could relate to. Someone who would love similar things like me, and it turned out…” Twilight blushed a bit, smiling over at Jamie. “I did.”

Jamie blushed madly as he began twiddling around with his notebook a bit before looking at her and decided to say something.

“T-that’s…very nice of you Twilight. I-I thought of the same thing too.” Jamie said with a soft smile. “We’ve been together for at several months, and…while I panicked and was distrustful of you all when we first met. All I kept thinking was begging to keep going home and see my family, mostly my sisters and the butlers and maids who works for my father, but after a while…I’ve started to accept living in this place after meeting you all and seeing how you guys were willing to protect anyone, even me. For most people back in my world, they would abandoned me or don’t bother to help me…I was always alone….”

Jamie looked at her with a grin before continuing “But ever since coming to Equestria, I’ve learned so many things a book couldn’t taught me. I’ve learned the many things what this world had and how greatly similar it was, including the holidays you spent here, and mostly…I’ve learned how to make a ‘friend’ and how friendship works. You guys…are my very first friends ever and I’m more than happy to ever be here with you all here today.”

“Jamie…” Twilight looked at him with a slightly surprised look on her face before smiling softly at him. “That’s great to hear….”

She let out a frown as she glanced down at her hooves before looking at Jamie and asked “So…what now? Do you want to continue being friends? Or…maybe become special someponies?”

“W-well maybe….” Jamie glanced away nervously, scratching his left cheek with a blush on his face. “I-If that’s what you want, and your brother does trust me ever since I protected you from the rest of those Changelings.”

“Well he did say so, but imagine his reaction to find out that we’re dating.” Twilight giggled, causing Jamie to stiffened in fear upon realizing that. Twilight noticed before making a soft smile and kissing him by the right cheek and said “Don’t worry…I’ll be sure to convince him. He IS my BBBFF, after all.”

“R-R-Right!” Jamie nodded, still worried about facing Shining Armor’s wrath. “But yeah…I think maybe we could work on a relationship…right Twilight?”

Jamie offered his hand in front of Twilight, which made her smiled and nodded before shaking his hand with her hoof.

“Right you are…Jamie.” Twilight smiled before the two started laughing. While they laughed, Jamie flinched as he placed a hand on his forehead as he gotten the same feeling as the others. A feeling…that he remembered something.



Flashback

“WAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!”

Jamie was running through the streets as a bunch of people chased after him. He was running through an alleyway before racing through of it and began hearing some screaming and such as he looks over and saw something attacking some of the locals. His face turned pale before backing away, not wanting to be a part of whatever’s happening over there before running away as the crowd of people from earlier were still after him. As he kept running in tears, he accidentally tripped and fell face-flat before getting up and panicked upon seeing the crowd of people surrounding him from every direction.

“P-Please…don’t hurt me. Please…” Jamie pleaded, but the crowd ignored him as they slowly made their way towards him with weapons in their hands. “No….NOOOOOOOO!”

As Jamie screamed, a bright light surrounded him as he ignored hearing the loud screams that were surrounding him. 

Flashback Ended



“A-Ah!” Jamie winced in pain, holding his head in pain. 

“J-Jamie! Are you alright?!” Twilight asked in worried.

“Ugh…it’s my head. I-I…I think…I remembered something.” Jamie said, putting his hand on his forehead. “I-it was…sorta faint…”

“Huh? You remember something?” Twilight asked in surprise.

“Y-yeah…” Jamie nodded, but before he could say anything else, he saw Ren, Kodiak, and Fluttershy walking out of the food court. “Huh? Is that…Ren? Fluttershy? Kodiak?”

Twilight turned around and noticed them as well, much to her surprise.

“It is them. I guess they’re here to hang out.” Twilight giggled before turning to Jamie and said “Hey, why not we check up on them?”

“Y-yeah, sure.” Jamie nodded before they headed over to Ren and the others were. “Hey, Ren! Fluttershy! Kodiak!”

“Huh?” The others turned around to see Jamie and Twilight walking towards them. “Oh hey dude, Twi, what’s up?”

“We’re doing alright. We just saw you guys over by the book store and just wanted to check up on you guys.” Twilight explained.

“Well we’re doing alright.” Fluttershy assured with a soft smile. “We’re just coming out of the food court. I enjoyed eating that lovely salad and vegetarian sandwich at Subway.”

“Same here!” Kodi grinned excitedly. “Oh man, I wish I could keep eating all day!”

“Kodiak…” Ren shook his head in amusement before turning to Jamie, noticing his Cutie-Mark tattoos on his cheeks. “Oh Jamie, how’s your cheeks?”

“Huh?” Jamie blinked in confusion before touching his cheeks, knowing what he was talking about. “Oh…it’s going alright. I still don’t know why they’re like this in the first place, but it looks like they won’t come off. Now I know they aren’t just planted there…”

“Does Princess Celestia or Princess Luna discovered anything about them?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Apparently not, they’re not even sure how did he get them at all.” Twilight shook her head. “All we know is that they appeared after me and Jamie…umm…”

“Shared your first kiss with each other?” Kodi bluntly reminded them, causing the two of them to blush in embarrassment before glaring at the Siberian Husky. “What? I was just saying.”

“Too soon Kodi, too soon.” Ren sighed, shaking his head. “So anyway…what’s the deal with that? It just appeared right out of nowhere?”

“Well…yeah, but before all that, I heard a voice.” Jamie explained. “I can’t remember much what it said, but it said something about ‘I am thou, thou art I’ or something like that.”

“I am thou, thou art I….” Ren muttered, rubbing his chin in thought.

“Well I’m sure we’ll be sure to discover many more secrets about that.” Fluttershy assured with a soft grin. 

“Oh yeah, what happened about that smudged up note you guys found? Along with Starswirl’s diary?” Kodiak asked curiously. “Any clue about them too?”

“Well we told them about it, but Princess Celestia allowed us to keep Starswirl’s diary for potential use while they took the smudged letter.” Twilight explained. “And I have a feeling maybe they may true to use any spell to make that letter so clearly for all of us to read.”

“Well that’s a relief…” Kodiak sighed in relief.

“Oh! I remember!” Ren exclaimed, startling the others. “Those words! That’s the exact same wording from the Persona series!”

“Persona?” Fluttershy asked in confusion.

“Persona stands for personality, in other words, who you are really are but hide deep within your heart when facing hardships in life. It’s also a video game series that I’ve played when I was 8. My most favorite is Persona 3, 4, and 5, but Persona 5 is the top of my top #10 video games list for obvious reasons. But those words you just said Jamie are the same ones as that.” Ren explained, only to received even more confused looks from Twilight, Fluttershy, and Kodiak while Jamie was in deep thought of that.

“I think you might have a point there…” Jamie muttered loudly, allowing the others for them to hear him. “It’s…definitely a connection, but I’m not entirely sure if a video game series like you described relates to what happened to me?”

“Well maybe it could be something.” Twilight spoken up, causing Jamie to flinch in surprise as he exclaimed “Crap! Not again!”

“What do you mean Twilight?” Kodi asked in confusion.

“What I mean that Jamie might gained some ability when he gained those cutie-marks.” Twilight explained. “You guys remember on how he brought up a barrier from protecting us from Chrysalis’s magic.”

“Oh yeah, we never did solve that mystery.” Ren nodded before slowly realizing what she means. “Oooh….you’re saying that maybe Jamie gained the same powers as you and Rarity, right?”

“Yep! And maybe we should prove this theory…” Twilight walked over to a nearby bench and placed one of the books they gotten from the book store down on it before walking back to the others. She turned to Jamie with a hopeful smile and said “Well go on Jamie.”

“H-huh? Me?!” Jamie asked in bewilderment. “B-but Twilight…I can’t have powers. I’m just a normal writer.”

“Well true, but we got to least try right?” Twilight smiled.

“She’s right. Go on dude, give it a try.” Ren encouraged with a smile on his face. Jamie looked at them with a surprised and bewildered look before sighing and nodded.

“O-Okay…I guess I’ll give it a try….” Jamie sighed before looking over at the book. 

“Now Jamie…” Twilight looked at her friend with a serious look as she began lecturing him. “You need to stay focus. Try to calm your thoughts down and try to stay relax. If you do that, you’ll be able to use your mind.”

“Got it…” Jamie nodded before raising his hand and tried to move the book, causing him to tense up a bit. “Just calm down….just stay calm down and you’ll be able to do anything…be confident. Don’t lose sight on your goal…”

Jamie closed his eyes and began thinking of some stuff he remembered over the course of his journey. The good times he had with his friends and such, and that caused him to make a soft smile on his face. Unbeknownst to them, the book was glowing dark blue as it slowly began rising up, causing the others to gasp as Jamie opened his eyes, seeing a glimpse of his book lifting in the air before falling back down on the bench.

“Whoa!” Kodiak gasped in awe.

“That…was…awesome!” Ren exclaimed in amazement and joy. “Dude, you gained psychic powers!”

“H-huh? I-I did that?!” Jamie exclaimed in shock.

“Yeah you did!” Twilight nodded with a smile. “You were amazing right there! I never knew you had such potential! But I never knew that much that you had such amazing power like that!”

“I’m more surprise that he can even do that!” Fluttershy added with a surprised yet amazed look on her face. “Is it because of those cutie-marks on his cheeks?”

“It must be considering that humans can’t even do that.” Ren stated, still awe by what he witnessed. “Still Jamie, that was so cool! Now you got the powers of the Force!”

“Umm…that doesn’t make any sense.” Kodi sweat-dropped as he gave his human companion a blank look while the other two giggled. Jamie looked at his hands with a surprised look but his face slowly began turning pale.

“AaaaaaaaAAAAAAAHHHHH!” Jamie let out a blood-curling scream, causing the others to cover their ears. “I-I did that?! I-I can do that?! I literally just did THAT?!”

“J-Jamie! Calm down!” Twilight assured with a soft yet worried smile. “I know this is all too hard to handle, even I’m surprised. But I know that you’re just worried about how you did all that, but you need to stay calm.”

“I-I know, but this is all to take on!” Jamie exclaimed in panic.

Twilight gave him a nervous grin before saying “Well look at the bright side, at least this is some new research that we can take upon.”

“…Y-yeah…I guess you’re right…” Jamie nodded, calming down a bit. 

“So you two are gonna research this?” Kodi asked curiously.

“If it’s these two, no doubt about it.” Ren shrugged with an amused grin.

“Well…kinda…” Jamie sweat-dropped a little before smiling at him. “But yeah…ever since that invasion, I’ve been more intrigued to learn more about the mysteries that we’ve been encountering like what does Starswirl’s diary says and why doesn’t anypony than us can see? What does that mysterious letter says? How did we get inside of those pods? And why do I have these cutie-marks?”

“But the more important question is that…why are we here?” Ren added, glancing down in thought. 

“Yeah, it’s a real mystery…” Fluttershy nodded in agreement.

“A mysterious mystery that always keeps getting us more mysteries throughout this fanfic.” The others turned around in a mere flash, only to scream in shock along with the one who they were seeing. “Kyaaaaa! Wait? Why are we screaming? Is it a scream party?”

“Pinkie Pie?” Kodi asked in surprise.

“Hi you guys!” Pinkie greeted with a cheery smile.

“Pinkie, when did you guys get here?” Ren asked in surprise.

“Oh! I was at the mattress store, jumping around the mattresses.” Pinkie answered with a bright grin before giggling to herself. “It’s so fun! It’s almost like an amusement park!”

“Pinkie, that’s very dangerous to do!” Jamie scolded.

“Jamie’s right! Why would you do that?!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Because it’s so much fun!” Pinkie answered bluntly, causing the others to sigh. Before any of them could say anything, they heard someone clapping as they looked over to see Rantaro leaning against a wall pillar with Gizmo sitting on his right shoulder, licking on a vanilla ice cream on a cone.

“Huh? Rantaro?” Ren called. “What are you doing here?”

“What does it look like? Taking a small break.” Rantaro answered, throwing a bunch of bits in his hands. “I’ve been collecting tons after ‘helping’ those other ponies.”

“Rantaro!” Twilight scolded. “Stop doing that!”

“I’m a broker, I make good deals with them by paying them info they give me.” Rantaro smirked. “That’s just how business rolls.”

“With you around, no wonder…” Kodi sighed.

“But I don’t get it, why do you love scamming ponies?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“It’s not scamming, we make deals. Don’t compare me to some low-life con artist like those Flim Flam wannabees.” Rantaro shrugged with a cocky grin. “Look, why am I wasting time with any of ya? You’re all wasting my time.”

“Come on Rantaro, can’t we just talk more?” Ren asked curiously. “I mean…we can be friends.”

“Yeah yeah, keep dreaming kid. Why be friends with the guy who electrocuted you to near death with an taser gun?” Rantaro rolled his eyes, walking away while the others looked at each other and sighed.

“Man…what’s his problem?” Twilight wondered. “I’ll never begin to understand him…”

“Yeah…” Jamie gulped before nodding in agreement. “Though…why bother bringing that up? That was long past, you know.”

“Jamie’s right.” Fluttershy said. “I mean, I’m not sure about him. I don’t think he’s a terrible person, but he’s too hard to socialize.”

“Even so, I’m gonna try.” Ren stated, surprising the others. “Even if he’s stubborn, I still want to help him out. I mean, so what if he almost electrocuted me to death? He didn’t mean it, besides it was aiming for Jack.”

“You…surprisingly make a good valid point.” Twilight blinked in surprise.

“Are you sure Ren? Can we even trust him? We don’t all that much other than his job as being a broker from the underworld or whatever you guys said.” Kodi reminded his human friend.

“Well…true…” Ren scratched the back of his head with a sheepish grin. “But he’s in the same situation as us. If we keep bonding with him, he’ll surely turn up to be our friend.” 

“Oh Ren…” Fluttershy sighed before smiling at him. “But you’re right…I mean, he helped us during the invasion.”

“But didn’t he say that he only did it because he was forced to?” Kodi asked in worried. “I mean, that guy is just doesn’t like his time being wasted, remember?”

“But what if he was lying?” Ren suggested. “I mean, I may not be Nikki, but I have this feeling that he just wanted to help us. I’m sure that he wants to be our friend.”

“That’s an understatement.” Jamie sighed, sweat-dropping a little. “But then again, I’m sure he’ll turn up…”

“Me too Jamie, me too…” Twilight sighed before smiling. “But then again, maybe Ren might have a point. I mean, we used to be anti-social but now look at us.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right.” Jamie smiled softly and nodded in agreement while the others began laughing as Ren added “You guys got that right!”

“Wow, I only showed up five minutes in this story and it’s already gotten this good.” Pinkie mused herself with a bright grin on her face, which the others didn’t bother to ask her about. 

Unbeknownst to them, Rantaro was still around as he was hiding behind a nearby store wall before looking away with a slightly annoyed look.

“Tch…way to go to keep wasting my precious time…” Rantaro sighed, glancing away from them before taking out his phone and looked over the photo of him and his father. While he was gazing at it, he flinched as he began feeling a strange feeling in his body as a faint memory began playing his head.



Flashback

“Hmm…Alright, let’s make a deal.” Somewhere out in the desert, Rantaro was over by a market’s back room, making one of his deals for rare items. Rantaro threw a stack of hundred dollar bills to the person he was making the deal with. “I’ll buy that for 10,000 bucks?”

“No, you give me 50,000 bucks.”

“10,000 bucks because I could always reveal info to the police that you were involved in many black-market dealings like what we’re doing right now.” Rantaro smirked, causing the man to feel tense before slamming his fist on the table. 

“Oh really? I could kill you right here, right now.” Rantaro shook his head with a cocky grin on his face before saying “Nuh uh uh! I don’t think so. I already gave out several of your clients info and after making some deals with them, they can easily testified for me and against you.”

“Tch!” The man hissed angrily before sighing and accepted the money as he said “Fine…deal…”

“See?” Rantaro chuckled. “Can’t handle it?”

“Hmph!” He scoffed before handing him a black case. Rantaro handed him the stack of money before grabbing the case and began taking his leave.

He soon made his way out of the store with the suitcase in tow before he sat down on a nearby rock and opened the case to find an faint orange colored meteorite in it.

“Hmm….so this is the ‘treasure’ that I’ve heard rumors about? Jeez, meteorites aren’t that rare anymore.” Rantaro rolled his eyes in a huff before picking it up. “Man…guess I was cheaped off by it…”

Suddenly, the meteorite began glowing as an orange essence flowed through his body, causing him to hiss in pain before falling to the ground, having that strange energy flow through his body.

“A….A….AHHHHH!” Rantaro screamed before he began falling unconscious into the brink of darkness.

Flashback End



“Tch!” Rantaro hissed, placing a hand on his forehead with a painful look on his face. Gizmo looked over at his friend from his right shoulder and tilted his head, wondering what was wrong with his partner-in-crime. Rantaro shook his head before noticing his pet looking at him in concern. “I’m fine…just a minor headache.”

Rantaro pulled back his cocky grin and said “Well…let’s get out of here. I just want to go and find something to eat that’ll make our appetites feel good than the boring food they sell in this stupid world…”

With that, the two began taking their leave and went off to find something to eat over by the food court. While Rantaro was walking through the mall district, he couldn’t help but wonder one thing.

“When…did that happened? About buying that meteorite from one of my clients? Hmm…I guess they weren’t joking about having our memories being missing but…how long exactly did we lose?”



Meanwhile

Somewhere in the colder regions of Equestria, a familiar mysterious dark figure was seen flying through the glacier with his arms crossed as he flew through the blizzard.

“Hmm…it’s got to be here…that kingdom. It’s where my creation were taken away after they were sealed by that princess a millennia ago.” Void murmured, looking through the glacier. As he gazed down through it, something caught his eye. He sensed a dark presence within the glacier, one that he’s all too familiar with. “This darkness…it belongs to….Ah yes, it’s been so long…my beloved Umbrum army…”

Void took out one of the small dark crystals out of his cloak before raising it into the air before it let out a dark-green like beam towards the glacier, causing it to open up a giant steep in the cliff, releasing a dark presence out of the ground as he began hearing some loud growling before seeing a pair of eyes appearing in the smoke.

“Who dares awakens me? Who dares break me out of my prison?” Void chuckled to himself before replying “It’s me…I’m sure you recognize me…Sombra…”

“Ah!” Sombra widened his eyes upon realizing who he was speaking to. “W-what? But…where did…?”

“I was in hibernation till I was finally awoken after absorbing the rest of the negative energy from living in this world for a millennia.” Void explained, crossing his arms. “For now, I have some energy left to release you. Now that you’re finally here, you can continue on what you and the others were destined for, right?”

“Indeed I have…” Sombra chuckled darkly before the two of them began noticing something faint was appearing through the glacier. “Ahh…so it seems that it finally returns.”

“’It’?” Void questioned before realizing what Sombra was talking about. “Ah yes….you’re talking about the kingdom you once ruled after killing Princess Amore, right? Hmm…well I’m surprised that it’s still looking fine even after appearing out of nowhere in this blizzard.”

“I placed a spell to make it invisible from a mere pony’s sight that prevents them from seeing anything ever since my imprisonment. But since you released me, the spell is broken. Now…it is time for revenge.”

“Indeed, but if you want to make your dreams into reality that can make it into a shining hope…” Void darkened his face, his left mask eye glowing crimson red. “You’re gonna need to release the Umbrum Army.”

“I know, but with the power of the Crystal Heart…I’ll be able to break through their prison and together, we shall destroy every part of Equestria into darkness. This…is…my…destiny! MWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!”

Void stared at him for a while, watching Sombra laughing maniacally.

“Yes…good luck. I’ll be of help to you…and I know with your help, you’ll help me create ‘true hope’.” Void chuckled darkly. “This is what you were created for, right? After all…” Void darkened his face with his left mask eye mask glowing crimson red. “I created you…and given you the purpose to fulfill your destiny…”

“….Yes, and I swore that I won’t let you down….father…”

Unbeknownst to them, the two were being watched by a cloaked pony as they looked upwards, seeing both Void and Sombra in the air. 

“….Sombra….it’s you…it’s really you…After all these years, I knew that we would see each other…After all…” The pony took off her hoodie, revealing a light violet colored pony with a pale aquatic blue mane as she sadly smiles at them, mainly at Sombra. “A friend would never forget their own best friend…”

To Be Continued
> Chapter 59 - The Crystal Empire Part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Ren…what are you doing?” Kaede called.

“Playing Persona 5!” I replied with a smile as I just finished off playing the first Palace of it. Man, it took very long. I don’t mean to brag, but I could have finish this in a day or so, but what with all the bonding and grinding levels and stuff like that, it took about the entire weekend to finish the first palace level. I mean, I need to grind those levels in order to beat Kamoshida! That guy is pretty powerful.

“Wow, you sure have been playing for a while.” Kodiak commented in surprise.

“Yeah.” Carrie nodded, scratching him and Rosy by the necks. “Do you play this game back then?”

“Well yeah. I’ve played all of the Persona games, either main or spin-offs.” I nodded with a smile. “But my most favorite ones are Persona 3, 4, and 5.”

“Why those games?” Jack asked, laying on the couch with a heavy yawn. “I’m no video game nerd like ya, so what’s the big deal?”

“Mostly for the great voice-acting, bonding with characters with social links, good music, and mostly for how the main protagonists are so cool.” Also because of Johnny Yong Bosch. I mean, seriously, that guy is like the greatest voice actor because no matter what anime or visual novel game and stuff you hear, you can hear that voice of his. It’s funny, isn’t it? I mean, how does he do it? 

“Meh, I still call bull on that.” Jack turned around and tried to sleep before scratching his butt. “Anyway…I’m going to sleep.”

“Come on Jack!” Kaede scolded, putting her arms on her hips with a somewhat stern look. “Can’t you just at least not go to sleep? Don’t you have that part-time job with Mason?”

“Sorry, not my problem brat.” Jack scoffed.

“But Jack…” Jamie called, looking over from reading his book while Rantaro and Nicole were sitting far aside from the battle with cappuccino beverages with them. “Don’t you think we need to continue my laps?”

“Till Mason gets back.” Jack gruffly stated. “I don’t wanna leave him behind.”

“But big brother wouldn’t mind, Jack.” Carrie pointed out.

“Whatever…” Jack scoffed. “Right now, I just my nap.”

“And that’s probably the reason why he’s so damn fat.” Rantaro snickered, causing Jack to look up and growled angrily before he shouted “Hey! You better shut the fudge up or else!”

“Jack, calm down!” Kaede assured.

“Yeah, just relax man.” Kodiak added, getting tummy rubs from Carrie. “I mean…we should just relax like how I am with these tummy rubs.”

“Mm-hmm! I hope you like it Kodi!” Carrie giggled.

“Yeah, and we can Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.” I suggested, pulling out a Nintendo Switch controller. “We can play up to 8 players, so that won’t be a problem.”

“Well I’m not good at video games, but umm…I guess I’ll try…” Jamie shrugged.

“Hmm…whatever.” Rantaro shrugged.

“Sure, I mean…I never played a Smash Bros game before, but whatever! Let’s do it!” Kaede exclaimed in excitement. “But just remember, I won’t let my guard down Ren!”

Whoa…someone’s pumped up.

KNOCK-KNOCK!

“Oh! I’ll get it!” Carrie gotten up and ran towards the door before she opened it up. The moment she did…

“Oh hi Fluttershy!” Huh? Fluttershy…here? I saved my game before walking over and seeing Fluttershy with a worried look. 

“H-Hi Carrie, hi Ren…” Fluttershy greeted. “Umm…everypony, can you come with me towards the Golden Oak Library?”

“The Golden Oak Library? Why’s that?” I asked curiously. “Did something happened to Twilight and Spike?”

“Well…it’s kinda hard to explain, but Twilight seemed to take it too seriously and we’re worried about her.” Fluttershy explained.

“R-really?” Jamie ran over with a concern look. “She didn’t overslept and having a headache from all that late night reading again, right?!”

The rest of us stared at him with confused looks, causing him to timidly look down and blushed a bit as he clarified “I-I’ve seen that happened before…”

“Right…” Jack blankly replied before turning to Fluttershy, who flinched upon seeing his face. “So spill the beans, timid chick? What the hell is up with the purple bookworm?”

“Well apparently it’s about from what Princess Celestia told her about.” Huh? From what Princess Celestia told her about? What does she mean? 

“Oh boy, what did your dear princess tell her about?” Rantaro asked. 

“W-well…”

“It’s about some sort of test that Princess Celestia prepared, right?” Nicole guessed, bewildering us all and shocking Fluttershy before she recovered and squeaked out “Y-yes…”

“A test? What sort of test?” Kaede asked curiously.

“We’re not sure, but it seems like it’s getting Twilight extremely worried.” Fluttershy shrugged before forming a concern look. “But…it making Twilight go through a panic state of mind.”

“Really? Does she even know what the test is?” Rantaro asked in a deadpan look.

“I don’t know, but it’s making Twilight go all crazy and really worried about it. Me and the others are so worried about her that we’ve tried to calm her down, but she wouldn’t listen to us.” 

Oh boy, looks like Twilight is having one of those moments.

“And you would teach her to stop being so panicky about those types of stuff.” Rantaro sighed irritably. “That little reason is what caused her to be abandoned and lose trust in her friends back then at that stupid wedding.”

“C-Can we please not go through that, please?” Jamie asked politely.

“But even so, she is really going through a panicky state through some stress.” Nicole lectured. “Most people or in their state, ponies, goes through terrible stress in stuff like this. Like for example, this ‘test’ Princess Celestia offered.”

“Well…that’s one thing, but…” Kaede had an unsure look on her face as she asked “What is this test the princess talked about?”

“Whatever.” Jack scoffed. “It’s no big deal.”

“But even so, we should go and visit her.” I offered, “I mean, just to be make sure that she’s alright.”

“Good idea Ren.” Jamie nodded. “I mean, I’m worried about her too.”

“You’re just saying that because you’re worried about your girlfriend.” Jack teased, earning a massive blush from Jamie as he flailed his arms up and down and exclaimed “We’re not even in a relationship!”

“Yeah, sure…” Jack scoffed. “Anyway…fine, might find something interesting for today.”

“It would be a waste of my time…why bother?” Rantaro asked. “I rather stay away and mind my own business?”

“Same here. I don’t like being around large crowds.” Nicole added, not wanting to go either.

“Come on you guys! Can’t you help us at least?!” Kaede begged.

“Sorry, you’re asking the wrong group of people.” Rantaro rolled his eyes.

“No.” Nicole answered bluntly.

“Jeez, why must adults like you always have to be so difficult?” Kaede asked with a sweat-drop forming on her head.

“W-well anyway…let’s go anyway.” I suggested with an awkward smile before we began to make our way towards the Golden Oak Library. 

“Tch…why bother going there? She’s just having another one of those ‘Twilight’ moments or whatever you guys call it.” Rantaro shrugged.

“If you don’t wanna come, then don’t.” Jack scoffed.

“Although…I am curious about this test.” Nicole begins to take her leave while she adjusted her glasses and said “I…suppose I can make an exception.”

“You’re kidding right?” Rantaro asked with an exasperated sigh. “Well…whatever. Fine…unless I get something in return.”

“I’ll give you 50 of my bits?” I offered.

“Go higher.” Rantaro folded his arms with a small smirk.

“What about 250?” I offered.

“Go even higher.” Is he serious about that? Well…ugh…

“I’ll just give you all of my bits.” I suggested, which seemed to gotten an approval from him.

“Your whole life savings? Now we’re talking.” Rantaro smirked. “And don’t worry, I’ll pay you back…probably.”

Probably…?

“Come on you guys! This is no time! Let’s hurry to the library and see what’s up!” Kaede exclaimed, which we nodded as the rest of us began racing over to the place. Oh no, I just hope Twilight is alright! I’m already beginning to get worried about her, and I think Jamie is getting worried about her too!


My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria


Oh god, I just hope that hopefully that we can Twilight to calm down! As soon as we arrived to the library, we encountered the other girls, along with Mason, who held worried and concern looks on their faces.

“Big brother!” Carrie called, gaining his attention. “Is something wrong with Twilight?”

“You can…say that.” Mason gulped. “Right now, she’s under stress.”

“And by stress, do you mean…?” Kodi asked worriedly with a raised brow.

“Where are all my quills?! Brbrbr. No, no, no, no, no…Ugh! I need the Magical Compendium volumes 1 through 36! Where is it?!”

We all winced at the loud thudding and banging all around the library.

“…Yeah that.” Mason nodded.

“Like seriously?” Rainbow Dash asked. “She’s really going all crazy with this test.”

“You know Twilight, she takes her studies seriously, Rainbow Dash.” Rarity reminded her.

“And that’s what worries us.” Fluttershy added. “I just hope that she’s gonna be alright.”

“Hey nerd.” Jack called, causing Jamie to stiffened a bit. “You’re more closer with the bookworm than any of us, think you can talk to her?”

“I-I can try…” Jamie nodded before walking past us and inside of the library as we all gazed from the doorway and saw how much of a mess it was inside. Yeesh, this place looks like it needs cleaning.

“It’s messy.” Nicole stated bluntly. 

“Thanks for stating that captain obvious.” Rainbow Dash scoffed.

“But can you blame her?” Applejack asked. “I mean, normally Twilight keeps her place tidy, but now it looks like a tornado came swarming inside and messed up the place.”

“Ain’t that the frigging truth?” Jack scoffed.

“Where is it? Where is it?!” Twilight kept looking around the place and whenever she found something like pencils, notebooks, or school stuffy, she places it in her satchel.

“Twilight…you okay?” Jamie stepped forward with a concern look.

“Not now Jamie! Right now, I really need to look for my flashcards to review what I learned so far!” Twilight exclaimed with an extremely panicked look on her face. Me, Kaede, Mason, and Carrie winced upon seeing how she’s acting like this.

“This reminds me of what happened last time.” Kaede whispered to me, which I gulped and sweat-dropped upon remembering how she tried to create a friendship problem. Yeah…definitely gonna prevent that by using Paralyze on her.

“I-I know, but can we please talk?” Jamie called. “I mean, you need to take a deep breath and relax.”

“Flash cards!” Twilight exclaimed, turning to Spike and completely ignoring Spike. “I should make some flashcards instead! Spike, Jamie, I’m gonna need you to quiz me.”

“Quiz you?!” Jamie exclaimed in shock.

“Yes, and on everything! Everything I’ve ever learned! Ever!” She grabbed his cheeks with a rather insane and frustrated look on her face before she used her magic to levitate a bunch of blank flashcards. “That isn’t going to be enough cards!”

“T-Twilight…please calm down. I think we should talk.” Jamie pleaded.

“He’s right, Twilight. Just calm down.” Spike agreed with a rather annoyed look on his face as he said “I mean, it’s just a test.”

“The squirt’s right.” Jack nodded with a light scoff. “What’s the point of it anyway?”

We all slowly widened our eyes upon hearing those two said those trigger words. Ooh…you two better run away as fast as you could, like…right now before she-

“Just a test?” Ah crap-baskets. “Just a test? Just a test?!”

“Yeah, so?” Jack scoffed as some of us kept making gestures to tell him to shut up, but he kept going on and on as he continued “It’s some boring test and I don’t give my behind that’s it all important. Besides, it seems like a waste of time.”

Suddenly, he and Spike were met with a death glare from Twilight as she slowly began to turn red and was steaming mad, even frightening Jamie as he slowly begins to back away in fear of her.

“You two!” Twilight walked up to them, pulling them closer with her magic as she loudly lectured the two of them. “Princess Celestia wants to give me some kind of examn, and you two are trying to tell me to calm down because it’s just a test?!” 

Spike and Jack looked at each other before turning back to her and shrugged.

“Uh…yeah?” They both answered, only to earn a blank and upset look from her before she puts them down on the ground with an irritated scoff.

“Never mind!” Twilight hissed before she pointed a hoof on Jack’s belly as she exclaimed “And I would not want to hear anything from you at all! This is important! I can imagine the possibilites if I fail it.”

“Jeez, she’s panicking as if she’s taking an S.A.T./A.C.T. exam.” Rantaro heavily sighed while Nicole couldn’t help but slightly nodded in agreement.

“Well…I’d say she’s handling things pretty well, considering.” Applejack chuckled nervously with an awkward smile.

“Yeah…she’s totally alright.” Rantaro shrugged.

“Are you sure Ran? She looks like she’s having a sugar rush like me.” Pinkie said in a dumbfounded tone, which made Rantaro face-palmed.

“I was being sarcastic.” Rantaro grumbled. “Tch! Look at me, wasting my time and energy with you guys. Tell me again when I get my pay?”

“Just relax, dude.” I assured, nudging him a bit.

“Could anyone please tell me on how can we calm her down?” Mason questioned, hearing Twilight letting out an exasperated grunt. 

“Beats me!” Jack scoffed, rubbing his gut with a snort. “That crazy purple chick is just outright terrifying. Jeez, she’s just panicking too much.”

“D-don’t worry, I’m sure I-I can try to help her.” Jamie assured with a meek grin before walking up to Twilight. “Now Twilight…can you please calm down and let us talk? Right now, you are acting too crazy and need some help! P-Please…I can help you out review your ‘test’.”

Twilight turned to him with a slightly remorseful look before sighing “Alright fine…sorry…”

Jack gaped at that while Rantaro smirked before nudging him by the shoulder and said “You were saying?” 

“I rather suggest you listen to Mr. Jamie.” Nicole spoken up, causing all of us, including Twilight, to turn to her. “You heard about this test from Princess Celestia, and yet you’re acting highly unstable right now. You don’t even know what this test is even is, so you’ll surely get an explanation from her if you go and ask her?”

“Oh…g-good point.” Twilight chuckled nervously. “I panicked over for nothing then…”

“You think?!” Spike asked before letting out an exasperated grunt and walking off.

“What Nicole is trying to say Twilight, is that…you need to calm down, Twi.” Applejack explained. 

“Applejack’s right.” Rarity nodded in agreement. “We’re your friends, and we’ll gladly help you out in any situation darling.”

“Same here!” Pinkie grinned happily, appearing between Rarity and Applejack, who blinked upon seeing her.

“Me too…” Fluttershy stepped up with a soft smile on her face before frowning a bit and muttered “I-If that’s alright…”

“And so do we.” I added with a soft smile. “I’ll be honest, I’m…not really good at taking tests, but we’ll surely be helpful with your test.”

“Do we have to?” Jack asked irritably, only to receive a death glare from Mason. Jack stiffened a bit before sighing “Fine…we’ll help…but don’t come crying to me when you fail it.”

“I want to help too, Twilight.” Jamie softly smiled. “I’m sure Princess Celestia is gonna explain to you this test if we ask her directly. Please…”

Twilight looked up at Jamie and the rest of us with a hopeful smile before saying “Thank you everypony.”

“No problem!” Rainbow Dash winked. “And don’t worry, we’ll handle whatever problem we can take on as long as I get to punch stuff!”

“Now you’re speaking my language!” Jack grinned, only to earn some groans from the rest of us.

“Not now, you too.” Kaede scolded. “Right now, we need to do something about this test. I mean, Twilight…do you know what Princess Celestia say about this test?”

“Actually, now that I think about it…no.” Twilight sheepishly grinned. “The moment Spike read the letter aloud to me about what it said this morning, I instantly began panicking onto what to do onto finding a way to study and prepare myself for the test.”

“Seriously?” Rantaro asked before scoffing “And that reason is why you’re too much of a book nerd like Jamie.”

That earned a whack on the head by Jack.

“Shut it!” Jack growled.

“Ow! What? I’m just saying.” Rantaro slyly grinned with a shrug.

“You’re being your sarcastic self as always. How amusing…” Nicole sighed before turning to Twilight. “So tell me…did that letter say anything else?”

“Well…I’m sure it said about meeting her up at Canterlot.” Twilight explained.

“Back to Canterlot again? Wow, we’ve been going there back there lately, huh?” I joked.

“Yeah.” Kaede chuckled. “It’s been a month since the invasion, so I think the place is either being renovated from the Changelings’ attacks or are already done.”

“Well then, shall we?” Mason smiled softly at us. “Let us make our way towards Canterlot.”

“Yay! A road trip!” Carrie exclaimed happily.

“I can’t wait!” Kodi grinned. “You excited Ren?”

“Well yeah.” I nodded with a smile. “Hopefully, the situation isn’t that dire.”

“Alright! Let’s go then!” Twilight smirked. “Oh! But first, I should probably some of my stuff just in case.”

We all let out groans as Twilight rolled her eyes and said “Oh relax, you guys. It won’t take long.”

With that, she ran straight upstairs while Jack face-palmed and grumbled “Yeah…won’t take long.”

“Yeah…” Jamie chuckled nervously with a minor sweat-drop.

“She takes longer than Rarity does…” Mason sighed, only to receive a glare from the fashionista. “Forgive me if I am comparing you to her Rarity, but it’s the truth.”

“Well…valid point indeed, Mason darling…” Rarity sighed. 

Well…I think this is gonna take a while for her to get her, so let’s just cut to the chase huh?

Later

After Twilight gotten her stuff ready to go and meet up with Celeste, we all headed towards the Ponyville Train Station and boarded a train towards Canterlot. Fifteen minutes later, we all arrived to our destination, but now, the city had less guards than usual.

“Huh…there’s not that many guards around Canterlot.” Kodiak pointed out. “Wonder why?”

“Probably since the threat is over, there’s no need for that many guards to patrol around Canterlot.” Nicole guessed.

“Seems likely…” Mason hummed in thought. “Hopefully, Shining Armor is here. I need to talk to him.”

Some of us turned to him with confused look as Carrie asked “Big brother…is this about the offer he made?”

Mason turned to his sister with a bewildered look before sighing “Yes…but I’m still indecisive at the moment.”

“Well…I know you’ll make the right decision, big brother!” Carrie grinned happily, earning an amused smile from Mason.

“I know I will…I just need wait till the right moment.” Mason chuckled.

“And when’s that?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Just…when the time is right, that’s all I gotta say.” Mason stated, bringing back his serious nature.

“M-Mason’s right, Rainbow Dash.” Rarity intervened with a soft smile. “Right now, it’s his decision and he shall accept whatever it is.”

“Thank you Rarity.” Mason smiled softly, earning a light blush from her.

“Umm…Rarity? You feeling alright?” Applejack asked.

“W-what?! Oh yes, it’s just…hot! Very hot today!” Rarity chuckled nervously.

“But…it’s 52 degrees out here.” Rainbow Dash stated.

“She’s right.” Nicole nodded. “I’m already checking the weather forecast app on my iPad.”

“Wait, it can do that?” I asked in surprise.

“I’ve updated it to match with the weather here on Equestria.” Nicole explained, taking off her glasses and cleaning the lenses off. “It was kinda hard to match up with the current weather here based upon how you guys control the weather, but I was able to do that.”

“You can do that?!” Jamie exclaimed in shock.

“I know many things other than psychology, Mr. Jamie.” Nicole stated. “I’ve taken engineering as a minor during my college classes.”

“S-Sorry…it’s just that, I never knew.” Jamie scratched the back of his neck.

“Wait, why didn’t you tell us before?!” Applejack asked.

“I didn’t feel like it.” Nicole replied bluntly.

“Oh, I see.” Pinkie grinned. “You were just super shy like Fluttershy! I mean, she would probably feel really scared and so shy that she wouldn’t tell anyone her hobbies!”

“W-well…you make a point there…” Fluttershy rubbed her hoof bashfully.

“Well yeah, I mean, we all have our hobbies, right?” I added, scratching my cheek with a nervous grin.

“Well even so, I still think you should have told us.” Kaede insisted. 

“Yeah! What else are you hiding?!” Rainbow Dash demanded, earning only the silent treatment from Nicole before she sighed and replied “I don’t got to tell everything or anything about me…not yet…”

“Huh? What do you mean?” Jack asked suspiciously.

Nicole didn’t respond back as she begins to walk ahead of us towards Canterlot Castle. 

“There’s something fishy going on with her.” Rainbow Dash snorted. 

“Calm down, you guys. Let’s all calm down for now.” I assured, not wanting anyone to fight all over. 

“Ren’s right. I think maybe we should go see Princess Celestia?” Fluttershy offered.

“I agree.” Twilight nodded. “Now let’s hurry before we’re late! Ooh, I am so gonna be late for this test!” 

With that, Twilight rushes off, leaving us behind in the dust.

“T-Twilight! Wait up!” Jamie called, chasing after her.

“Come on, let’s head out.” Jack grumbled before the rest of us chased after them. You know, I don’t want to suspect my friends at all, and I want to believe in Nicole. Though, I wonder what she didn’t want to talk about. I mean, she may have not showed it, but she looked….a bit nervous. It’s hard to describe, but I think I’m slightly getting to know her better…I think?

Later

Soon after we arrived to Canterlot Castle, we were all escorted to the throne room by the two Royal Guards opened the doors for us to enter.

“I think it’s best if I head in first. After all, I need to take the test like they want me to.” Twilight said till Jamie placed a hand on her shoulder, catching her by surprise.

“Wait Twilight…allow me to join in with you, please.” Jamie offered. “I really want to help you out on the situation.” Jamie let out a soft smile and said “After all…you might panicked again.”

“Jamie…thank you.” Twilight smiled softly at him while the rest of us either held amused looks or contained our snickering. It was obvious those two are quite close, aren’t they? Ever since the Canterlot Wedding, those two have been seeing eye-to-eye a lot, haven’t they? Heck, even Jamie hasn’t been stuttering his words lately since then. He’s finally gained his confidence, but you know…I wished I knew about those two marks on his face. I mean, I think with those, he’s gotten magical powers considering that he used the force just the other day. I wonder…could that very well happen to us?

“Hey you guys, do you mind if I join in?” I asked curiously. 

“What? But why?” Jamie asked.

“Umm…just wanted to say hi to Celeste and Lulu, that’s all.” I replied. “But you know…I’m just want some answers about if they knew about that smudged up letter and all that?”

“Oh…I guess.” Jamie shrugged.

“Well I have no doubt that Princess Celestia and Luna have possibly found out much about the clue that might relate on our appearances here on Equestria.” Twilight added with a smile.

“Well in the meantime, we’ll wait outside by the station.” Kaede said with a smile.

“Mm-hmm! We’ll wait till then!” Applejack added.

“And don’t forget to question about the cheeks!” Pinkie added, earning weird looks from us. “What? I mean, Jamie’s cheeky cutie-marks might be a clue.”

“Surprisingly, she makes a good point at last since the first I gotten out of here.” Rantaro whispered to Mason, who nodded in agreement.

“Well…see ya you three.” Applejack smirked before they took their leave while the three of us remained here. Kodi ran towards me before licking my face and said “You won’t take long, right Ren?”

“Don’t worry bud, it won’t take that long.” I assured with a soft smile. “Promise.”

“Pinkie Promise?” Kodiak asked curiously. I playfully rolled my eyes before doing the Pinkie Promise.

“Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” Kodiak laughed at that, along with Twilight, Jamie, and possibly the two Royal Guard members. 

“Alright! I’ll catch ya later dude!” Kodi grinned happily before licking my face and racing off to catch up with the others.

“Well…shall we?” Jamie offered, raising his hand in front of her. Twilight softly smiled and nodded before accepting his hand before the two walked in while I followed after them. As we walked inside of the throne room, we saw the princesses by the other side of the throne room, looking over a mural of me and the others defeating Discord.

“Are you sure you don’t want to go as well?” Princess Luna asked, her tone feeling curious and serious at the same time.

“Yes. Princess Cadance and Shining Armor are already there. The others will be joining them soon.” Huh? Shining and Cadance? Wonder what’s about them?

“The Empire’s magic is powerful. It cannot fall again, my sister.” Princess Luna boldly stated.

“She will succeed at her task. And when she does, we’ll know that she is that much closer to being ready.” Huh? Being ready? Is she referring…to Twilight?

“Ahem!” Twilight called, gaining the sisters’ attention. 

“Trust me, little sister.” Princess Celestia assured with a soft grin, causing Luna to nodded before giving us a serious look.

“Hey Celeste! Hey Lulu!” I greeted with a soft smile.

“Greetings Sir Ren…” Luna greeted me, but instead of giving me a smile, she given me her serious look.

“Umm…sorry if we’re late.” Jamie apologized. “We had some delay, your majesty.”

“That is quite alright Jamie.” Princess Celestia smiled softly while Princess Luna began to stepped away from us as Twilight began pulling out many papers by levitating them. 

“You wanted to see me? To give me a test? I brought my own quills and plenty of paper to show my work.” Twilight smiled before putting down two bags of her stuff she gotten back from the library onto the ground till a bunch of stuff popped right out of there and a scroll rolled down and landed right in front of Celestia. “Oh! Sorry! Sorry!”

“So Celeste…” I called. “How it’s hanging? You and Lulu okay?”

“We are quite alright Ren.” Princess Celestia smiled softly before she picked up the scroll by using her magic to levitate it and scroll it up. “Now, I’m sure you two are confused but this is a different test for Twilight to handle.”

“Huh? What do you mean?” Jamie asked with a confused look.

Princess Celestia looks at us with a serious yet grim look before saying “The Crystal Empire has returned.”

Me and Jamie blinked in confusion before looking at each other. The…Crystal Empire….that name…Hmm…

“The Crystal Empire?” Twilight asked before levitating several books and looking all over them at once. “I’m sorry, I-I thought I’d studied. Ooh…I don’t think there’s anything in any of my books, th-”

“There wouldn’t be. Few remember it ever existed at all.” Princess Celestia stated, taking away the books away from Twilight, who looks at her in surprise. 

“Really?” I asked with widened eyes. “Why’s that? Did…something happened to this Crystal Empire?”

Princess Celestia turned towards a glass capsule that was just near the thrones as she picked off a large purple crystal in the air before she fired a beam into it, showing off a hologram on the ground of the layout of the Crystal Empire.

“Whoa…” I muttered. “Cool…”

“Is this…the Crystal Empire?” Jamie questioned. 

“Yes. Even my knowledge of the Empire is limited. But what I do know is that it contains a powerful magic. One thousand years ago, King Sombra, a unicorn whose heart was black as night, took over the Crystal Empire.” 

The hologram began to transitioned to show many dark crystals rising from the ground, before it showed off a dark colored pony with a red horn and green eyes with a red pupil in front of us.

“Ah…!” I gasped before…



“You all don't even know the meaning of true hope. The powers you all took from me...only I can possess the power to create 'true hope'.” 



“Ngh…” I winced in pain before noticing Jamie holding onto his head in pain.

“Are you two alright?” Twilight asked in worried.

“H-huh? Oh yes…” Jamie nodded meekly while Princess Celestia looked at us with a solemn look.  

“Yeah…it was some strange headache, that’s all.” I added. “We’ve been getting some strange ones for a while.”

“Mm…it would seem that my sister is breaking through more of your chained memories.” Princess Celestia hummed in thought. “Now then…as I may continue, King Sombta was ultimately overthrown, turned to a shadow, and banished to the ice of the arctic north.”

The hologram showed us him enslaving strange ponies covered with crystal dust all over their bodies, but sooner or later, it showed Princess Celestia and Luna fighting him off till they combined their magic together and blasting Sombra down into the arctic glacier, sealing it up for good after he was diffused into a shadow.

“Huh…” Jamie muttered. “So you two defeated him and sealed him away?”

“Yes…” Princess Celestia nodded. “But not before he was able to put a curse upon the Empire. A curse that caused it to vanish into thin air.” The whole hologram of the Crystal Empire suddenly vanished before our eyes. “If the Empire is filled with hope and love, those things reflected across all of Equestria!”

The crystal illustrated her point by reflecting a rainbow of comforting colors.

“But if hatred and fear take hold…”

We all gasped upon seeing Celeste’s eyes turned completely green, her horn bubbling with purple mana as a bolt of black lightning struck the crystal, casting a shadow that reached out along the floor towards us. 

“A-AHHH!” Jamie screamed as he began backing away, his face showed how much fear he had. Suddenly, dark crystals sprung up, ugly and repulsive.

“W-Whoa!” I exclaimed before quickly taking out my Hacking Gun. “Break!”

I shot two ‘Break’ bullets, breaking them into pieces. Princess Celestia stared at me with slight awe before nodding.

“Thank you Ren.” Princess Celestia nodded with a soft smile. “Which is why I need your help to find a way to protect it.”

“You want me to help you protect an entire empire…?” Twilight asked, slowly widening her eyes in shock.

“W-wait what?!” Jamie exclaimed in shock. “But…no offense, but how?!”

“Do not fear, I have complete faith in Twilight’s capabilities. Besides, she has all of you by her side.” Princess Celestia remarked. “It is as I said, a different kind of test. But one I am certain you will pass.”

Twilight looked towards me and Jamie, which we gave them encouraging smiles as I commented “Don’t worry Twilight. We’ll be by your side, and you can count on us.”

“Same here. I’ll…protect you and work as hard as I can.” Jamie nodded with a serious look. 

“You guys…thank you.” Twilight softly smiled at us before turning to Celeste with a serious look as she asked “Where do we begin?”

“By joining Prince Shining Armor and Princess Cadance in the Crystal Empire.” Celestia replied.

“My brother is there?” Twilight asked, feeling more excited about it.

“I guess the honeymoon came to an end, huh?” I joked with a smile. 

“It would seem, but they understood the situation.” Princess Celestia chuckled with a soft smile. “But do not fear, they are there already, and your Ponyville and human friends will join you on this quest as well.”

I nodded before noticing Princess Luna leering at us, causing me to feel a bit tense. What’s going on with her? Why…is she looking at us like that?

“I have every confidence you will succeed, and when you do I will know you are ready for the next level of your studies.” Twilight looked at Princess Celestia before glancing at Luna, who was still leering at us, mostly at me and Jamie. Twilight turned back to the Sun Princess with a doubtful look before asking “But…what if I fail?”

“You won’t.” Celestia firmly said.

“But what if-”

“Twilight, have faith in her.” Jamie assured softly. “I-I mean..you can do it, right? You’ve come this far and I know you won’t fail…”

“R-Really?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah…because I believe in you.” Jamie softly smiled as the two stared at each other while I chuckled at them, along with Princess Celestia while Princess Luna didn’t bother to respond.

“Ahem!” Princess Celestia cleared her throat, gaining the two attention as they scooted away with light blushes on their faces. “So anyway, I know that you won’t fail Twilight. But, in the end, it must be you and you alone who ultimately assists Princess Cadance and Shining Armor in doing what needs to be done to protect the Empire. Do you understand?”

“Mm-hmm!” Twilight grinned happily.

“Then go. There is no time to lose!” Princess Celestia firmly called.

“Right!” Twilight smirked before turning to the two of us. “Come on you guys! Let’s get the others to know!”

“Yeah!” I nodded in agreement as we were gonna head out of the throne room till Princess Celestia stopped us.

“Wait just a minute!” We all turned back to the princesses as Celestia asked “May I speak with you for one more moment Ren and Jamie?”

“Oh…sure.” Ren nodded.

“Yes, your majesties. I-I mean, your highness. I-I mean…” I nudged Jamie, causing him to flinch a bit while Twilight rolled her eyes before asking “Umm…is it something troubling about the mission?”

“No, it’s…very private and it concerns about their lost memories.” Princess Celestia firmly stated.

“Our…memories?” Jamie asked in surprise.

“Yes.” Princess Celestia nodded before glancing at Twilight before gesturing her to leave. Twilight gulped before giving us supporting smiles before she began taking her leave while the two of us stayed right here in front of us.

“So…what is it?” I asked curiously.

“Well…there are a few things we wished to clear up.” Princess Luna spoken up. “First off…it concerns your memories.”

“Huh? What about it?” Jamie asked worriedly. “D-Did you…find any answer?”

“Not much, but as I kept digging through your memories…” Princess Luna leered at us suspiciously. “I swore that I saw each of you around the empire.”

“The…empire?” I asked before slowly realizing what she was mentioning. “What? The Crystal Empire?”

“Yes.” Princess Celestia nodded. “At first, I was in disbelief at that, so I thought maybe you guys knew about it.”

“N-no…” Jamie shook his head. “We don’t remember anything about it.”

“And wait, that…doesn’t make any sense.” I pointed out. “Why would any of our memories show us being around the Crystal Empire? I don’t remember that…”

“Yeah, same here…” Jamie nodded in agreement.

“Well…it must relates to your memories.” Princess Luna stated. “I may have not seen much, but I saw a glimpse of each of you all at the Crystal Empire and it looked like you were running away from something or in battle…but the empire…it looked different compared to what it was like before King Sombra invaded the empire.”

“Huh?!” I asked in shock. No way…did something really happened? This doesn’t make any sense…if it’s related to our missing memories, then why did the Crystal Empire appear in our heads?…No, that’s impossible! I would never believe that!

“I sensed that you two are in denial. Well…I guess it would make sense.” Princess Luna sighed. “But you two seemed to be familiar with the name of the kingdom.”

“That is true…it felt so…familiar to me…” Jamie rubbed his chin in thought. 

“Yeah…same here…weird, right?” I asked him, which Jamie nodded in agreement.

“Well…I’m sure it’s somewhat connected to your memories.” Princess Celestia assured. “But although Ren, the way you took out that dark crystal…it sounded as if you knew how to handle it.”

I looked at Princess Celestia with a shocked look. As much as I want to retort that, she did had a valuable point. How…was I able to knew that it might work? As a matter of fact, why…did I feel terrified around that crystal and those words…why did it sound so familiar to me?

“….I’m sorry Celeste and Lulu, but I still can’t remember anything other than weird stuff like seeing portraits of us being around some sort of funeral, along with weird helmets on our heads, and touching some weird stones.” I explained, shocking Jamie while seemingly getting the princesses intrigued by it.

“What? You saw all that too?” Jamie asked in shock.

“What?! So did you?!” I asked in shock.

“Y-yeah…all those things you’ve described…I can’t fully explain them, but those things you said was what I witnessed in my dreams!” No way! So he knew it too!

“So it looks like I am getting nearly everyone to remember similar events, huh?” Princess Luna hummed in thought. “But…these weird stones? Can you two try describing them?”

“Well…I’m not sure what it was to be honest.” I scratched the back of my head with an awkward smile. “I don’t remember much of my dream, but…it was the shaped of some rock and it was glowing…I think, pink?”

“Yeah…but the one I think I touched was Magenta?” Jamie guessed, which seemed to gotten the two princesses to looked at each other in confused looks. “B-But…that’s all I can try to remember…sorry.”

“It is quite alright, Jamie. You and Ren could try all your best.” Princess Celestia assured. “Though…it does raise some more questions.”

“Really?” Ren asked. “Is it about those stones?”

“Yes…” Princess Celestia nodded firmly. “We are not sure what you all could described, but…I think it might be a possibility.”

“A…possibility?!” Jamie asked. “C-can you tell us about what you came with, Princess Celestia?”

“Well…I am unsure at the moment, so sorry.” Celeste apologized.

“Hey, it’s okay. Sometimes we’re unsure about what we see in our dreams.” I chuckled, rubbing the back of my head. “But still…I’m sure we might find some answers even when we go to the Crystal Empire. I mean, if Lulu says that our memories are related to the empire, then maybe we might learn something there.”

“That is quite a good possibility there, Ren.” Princess Luna nodded. “You should prepare your Megaphone Hacking Gun in case of…enemies.”

“Yeah…” I nodded with a serious look. “You two can count on us all in to fight off this Sombra guy and the rest of his minions!”

“While we’re on the subject, we may love to discuss another factor concerning King Sombra.” Princess Celestia formed a concern look as she and her sister looked at each other while I stared at him with a confused look.

“What? What about him?” I asked curiously.

“Well…we couldn’t tell Twilight Sparkle because we didn’t want to ruin her confidence. Besides, this test is very important to her onto protecting the empire from Sombra’s wrath.” Princess Celestia explained. “You see…we feared that he might try to release the Umbrum Army.”

Huh? The Umbrum Army? That’s…completely new.

“The Umbrum Army? I’ve never heard of them before.” Jamie pointed out, rubbing his chin in thought before looking through his notes by checking out his notebook. “No…I haven’t even study about them from when I was getting used to my surroundings around Equestria.”

“That’s because they’re existence where hidden away along with the Crystal Empire.” Princess Celestia sighed. “Allow us to explain…you see, the Umbrum Army are beings of pure evil who wish to do nothing but manipulate others and conquer foreign kingdoms 1,000,000 years ago.”

“Whoa! That long?!” I exclaimed in shock. “Man…that’s frigging crazy!”

“Indeed.” Princess Luna nodded. “They appear to be immortal, or at least have absurd lifespans. They are very dangerous, manipulative, and cruel beings.” She formed a grim look on her face. “They are highly violent and too dangerous, devoid of any emotion.”

“No way…” Jamie gulped, his face turning pale. “I-Is that so? W-wow…I-I never knew that, Princess Luna.”

“That’s…” I gulped with a horrified look. “I mean…I’ve played a lot of video games and seen pretty much any pure evil character I can think of.”

“Well this is no game, Ren Loodan.” Princess Luna firmly said. “Right now, you and the rest of your human friends need to make sure to prevent Sombra from entering the kingdom and try to free them.”

“Luna is right.” Celeste nodded in agreement before showing us a hologram from the spiral crystal again to show the entire map of Equestria. “If Sombra succeeds onto taking back the Crystal Empire, he’ll likely release the Umbrum Army and…”

The image showed the whole map swarming around in darkness, causing me and Jamie to gasp.

“They’ll bring this world to darkness.” Princess Luna grimly stated. 

“Holy cow…” I muttered before forming a determined look. “Well…even so, we’ll try our best to prevent that. Though…it’s hard to believe that they would be this evil. Were…they always evil?”

“Ren…” Princess Celestia walked over to me and placed a hoof on my shoulder with a soft smile. “I understand that you don’t believe in the evil in everyone’s heart like with Chrysalis or Discord, but…you must understand that they are too powerful, violent, and they wouldn’t even show any remorse for the terror they released a millennia ago.”

I nodded grimly before darkening my face a bit. While I may not showed it, I kept wondering from our last encounters with the last two major villains…why was Discord and Queen Chrysalis evil? While I learned why Queen Chrysalis did it in the first place, I never learned much about Discord. I just hope that he wasn’t doing this out of boredom. I mean, Princess Luna used to be evil when she was Nightmare Moon, but she became good again and reunited with her sister after escaping her prison from the moon.

“Okay…but I’ll try my best.” I nodded with a serious look. “Even if they are evil, and if there’s any chance if we fail to prevent Sombra from bringing the Umbrum Army from escaping out of their prison…I’ll try to convince at least…”

“….Very well.” Princess Celestia nodded. “I understand your reasons, Ren.”

“W-well anyway…” Jamie cleared his throat, feeling a bit scared from what we’ve been discussing. “So these Umbrum Army are terrible and we all know now that there are quite evil, but why couldn’t you tell Twilight?”

“Because we feared that it might interfere with her test…” Princess Celestia answered.

“Her main concern is to prevent King Sombra from taking back the Crystal Empire.” Princess Luna added.

“Well…we understand.” I nodded. “Besides, it’s…kinda a similar thing, right? She stops King Sombra, saves the Crystal Empire, and unintentionally saves Equestria not only from him, but also from the Umbrum Army, right?”

“Yes. That is correct.” Celeste nodded. “So promise us that you won’t tell her about this, not even your other friends.”

I held a serious look before confidently saying “Don’t worry…we promise that we won’t tell a soul.”

“S-Same here…though I’ll try not to tell her or anyone, even when someone is threatening me…” Jamie gulped before sweat-dropping before knowing someone that he could do that. “Unless it’s Jack…”

“Yeah…I promise that’ll never happen.” I assured, scratching the back of my head while the two princesses softly smiled at us. 

“You two are so kind and trustworthy.” Princess Celestia softly smiled.

“I wouldn’t say that…” I chuckled before one question my head. “Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that Jamie might have the same powers as you guys.”

“Wait…really?” The two princesses turned to Jamie, who flinch in surprise. 

“Y-yeah…I can try, but me and Twilight have been researching all day and night about it, even practicing about it.” Jamie explained, twiddling his fingers nervously. “B-but…I don’t know much about it, neither does Twilight.”

“Hmm…this must relates much about those two cutie-mark on your face.” Princess Celestia explained. “Hmm…this is quite intriguing.”

“Do you think those cutie-marks means something?” I asked curiously.

“Hmm…it would seem so.” So is that a yes or…?

“So anyway…” Jamie cleared his throat. “Umm…I don’t mean to be rude, can we move onto another topic, please? I rather not talk about the cutie-marks on my face…”

Princess Celestia and Luna looked at each other in confusion before turning to me, which made me shrugged. They blinked a few times before realizing why, which made the two princesses blush.

“I-I see your point…” Celeste muttered.

“Same here, young Jamie.” Luna nodded in agreement.

“So…what do you wish to talk about?” Celeste asked curiously.

“Well…I was wondering abut the note me and Twilight send to you guys.” Jamie brought up. “I…was wondering if you were able to decipher it?”

“Hmm….” Princess Celestia hummed in thought while me and Jamie felt the suspense. Oh come on! Come on! What is it?!

“….I am sorry, but we have no clue what it says.” Aww…epic fail. Princess Celestia gave us a nervous smile and said “The smudge seems to real hard to remove, but…we think that maybe there’s a move to remove it.”

“Huh? T-There is?” Jamie asked curiously.

“Yes.” Princess Luna nodded before using her magic to bring over that pink crystal Princess Celestia used. “There is a crystal called a Prism crystal that can help erase all of that smudge.”

The pink crystal begins to show us a vision of the Prism crystal.

“Cool…!” I exclaimed. “So this thing can help us erase the smudge?”

“While that is impossible, this is another world where apparently anything can happen.” Jamie pointed out with an embarrassed smile. “S-so…I think we can look for it.”

“I have faith that you all will succeed.” Princess Celestia smiled. “The Prism Crystal is hidden somewhere in the Crystal Empire, so you should be able to search for as long as you can.”

“I feel like this is a side quest for us to do while Twilight and the others take care of protecting the empire from King Sombra.” I thought aloud. “Hmm…I guess it wouldn’t be hard to find one.”

“Yes, we know you can.” Princess Luna softly smiled before she handed us the letter, which Jamie received. “We weren’t able to decipher what it means, but we know with the Prism Crystal that you all will be able to get rid of the smudge and fully be known to read the contents of the letter.”

“Yeah, w-we’ll do our best. Thank you.” Jamie thanked with a soft smile.

“And please make sure that King Sombra doesn’t try anything to enter the kingdom and release the Umbrum Army.” Princess Celestia reminded us.

“Don’t worry Celeste and Lulu, we won’t let you down!” I nodded before taking out my Hacking Gun and had a serious look. “I mean, with my Hacking Gun and my friends, we’ll be able to defeat King Sombra and that Umbrum Army.”

“We know you all will.” Princess Celestia smiled. “Please…be careful and good luck on your mission.”

“We won’t let you down Celeste and Lulu!” I assured before nodding with a determined look.

“Me too…” Jamie nodded, sweating a bit. “I-I’m scared of learning all of this when we’re gonna go to the Crystal Empire, but…I don’t want to let my friends down, even Twilight. I-I’m gonna try.”

“We know you will.” Princess Luna nodded before making an apologetic expression. “And…I am terribly sorry for me leering at you all earlier. I felt suspicious that you all ever since I saw a glimpse of the memory of you all around the Crystal Empire.”

“Trust us, even we feel off-guard by learning that.” I added. 

“But you know,  know this might be strange, but…” Princess Luna looked at us with a serious look and said “The Crystal Empire I saw…I can’t help but feel like…it didn’t feel like it was the Crystal Empire that we’ve seen.”

“What do you mean?” Jamie asked curiously. 

“I’m not sure….I think maybe my eyes may have be playing tricks, but I am sure that the Crystal Empire we saw…felt different than the ones you’ve all seen earlier or even the one when Sombra took over.” Me and Jamie blinked and gasped a bit. 

“R-Really? Are you sure Lulu?” I asked in concern. “I mean, I’m still doubtful that we would be anywhere in the Crystal Empire from our past lives. I mean, why would we be there in the first place?”

“I understand if you all are still doubtful of your memories. Trust me, so am I.” Princess Luna hummed. “I wished as though it would be a lot faster if we found out a faster way to unlock your memories.”

“But wait, isn’t there a memory spell that can help us?” Jamie brought up. “I think I came across one while on my late-night reading.”

“Wait…a memory spell?! Seriously?!” I exclaimed before grinning in delight. “That could totally work! Why didn’t we think of that?!”

“But…you two need to be careful upon using that.” Huh? We turned back to Princess Celestia, who held a solemn look. “The memory spell is a very old spell that was used back then 1,000 years ago in case of amnesia, but it comes with side effects. You all need to think of that rationally for our sake. We don’t want any harm to come to any of you humans.”

“I see…” Jamie hummed. “Well…I think I’ll talk with Twilight about that…”

“Oh man…why must the easy way always gotta be hard? That’s like the most common thing to ever happen to…anypony.” I sighed. “Oh well…we might as well hurry back to the Ponyville Train station where the others are waiting.”

“Take care you all.” Princess Celestia smiled.

“And good luck on your mission. We’re all counting on you.” Princess Luna added, which made look at her with a surprised look. 

“Huh…” I muttered, which seemed to gotten her attention.

“Yes…is there a problem, Ren Loodan?” She asked curiously.

“Your…speaking normally. Sorry but, I couldn’t help but notice that.” I scratched my cheek in embarrassment while Luna blushed a bit with a nervous smile.

“A-Ah yes…my sister has been teaching me the proper language in this time of era. But…I’m still practicing…” Luna coughed and cleared her throat while Celestia giggled at how embarrassed she was.

“W-well anyway…we should get going, right?” Jamie reminded us.

“Ah yes…carry on you all and good luck finding the Prism Crystal.” Celestia called out. “We know that it’ll be the key finding your lost memories.”

I looked back at the Royal Sisters with a determined smirk and said “Don’t worry…we know that it’ll help us. Thank you for everything.”

With that, the two of us nodded before we made our way out of the throne room. As we walked through the hallways and out of Canterlot Castle, Jamie let out an exhausted sigh.

“This is bad…” Jamie sighed sadly. “I-I mean…from what Princess Luna told us, we…were around the Crystal Empire? Is that…even possible?”

“Well…I’m sure we’ll figure out when the rest of our memories come back. Have faith, dude.” I patted him on the back, which cheered him up a lot. Suddenly, a thought came across to me. “Hey wait, do you think the others have some of their memories back?”

“Well…it’s possible.” Jamie scratching his chin in thought. “I mean…it’s possible that we did recovered them, but maybe we all felt unsure onto telling each other of what we all remembered, it could lead to some misunderstanding or…”

Welp, here he goes with his random gibberish.

“Hey James…” I shook him while giving him a small grin. “Why not we ask them while we head out to the Crystal Empire?”

“O-Oh! R-Right! Sorry…” Jamie apologized, bowing to me. 

“Nah, it’s okay. Now come on dude, let’s go.” I said as we began to head out towards the Ponyville Station. As we continued to walk by, I couldn’t help but thought of what we’ve been discussing so far with the princesses. But…is that really true? Did we really go to the Crystal Empire at one point in the past? I mean, it just seems impossible. Why would the Crystal Empire appeared in our world? It never existed at all…right? I’m just having all these doubts right now…Man, it’s making my brain hurt.

Sooner or later, we caught up with the others as Twilight began telling the others about the Crystal Empire.

“Not quite. We’re going to the Crystal Empire!” Twilight exclaimed with a smirk on her face while confusing the others.

“Huh?” Everyone asked.

“The Crystal what?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Basically, we’re gonna protect an ancient kingdom that reappeared a thousand years ago from an evil tyrant.” I explained, gaining the others’ attention. 

“Ren! Jamie! You’re back!” Kaede called with a smile as Kodiak rushes over and licks our faces, causing us to chuckle.

“Kodi!” I called with a smile.

“What? I’m just excited, okay?” Kodiak pointed out. “Besides, we’re gonna go off to another adventure!”

“So another thing that the princess want us to do?” Rantaro scoffed. “This is just a waste of my time and energy. Where’s my pay anyway?”

“Come on Ran! This could be fun!” Pinkie exclaimed in excitement. “We’re already starting Season 3 and we don’t need to start it up on the wrong beat!”

“What?” He asked with a raised brow.

“Ignoring her…” Mason sighed before he folded his arms and turned to us. “So we are heading to this Crystal Empire to save it from an evil tyrant?”

“I can try explaining the details to you all, even making it specific for some of us.” Jamie glanced towards Pinkie, Rainbow Dash, and Jack, who raised brows of confusion at him.

“…Why is he staring at us?” Rainbow whispered to them, which made the two of them shrugging.

“Hmm…Crystal…Empire…” Nicole muttered. 

“Jeez…what a lame name.” Jack scoffed, only to earn a scolding look from Twilight and Jamie.

“Jack Yamaki, watch your mouth! This is very serious!” Twilight scolded.

“Exactly! This is ancient history we’re talking here!” Jamie added, glaring at Jack. “Twilight is taking a test about protecting an empire from an evil tyrant that cursed the Crystal Empire into disappearing out of existence for 1,000 years! Only a few knows about it’s existence, so stop talking about like learning ancient history is useless!” 

“Okay, okay, god…calm down nerds.” Jack raised his hands while some of us sweat-dropped with deadpanned or nervous looks.

“If you two keep acting up like this, then we won’t be able to do anything about it.” Rantaro sighed. “Besides, we’re already wasting time about going to this place. Besides…Crystal Empire…heh heh…”

“What’s so funny Rantaro?” Kaede asked curiously.

“Oh nothing…I think I can sell 500 bits for a single crystal.” Rantaro smirked.

“Rantaro!” Applejack scolded. 

“This isn’t the time for your cons and dirty deals!” Twilight exclaimed, giving him a look. “Right now, we need to protect the empire!”

“Sounds like work that your beloved princess wants ya to do.” Rantaro scoffed. “Besides, I’m already wasting my time with talking any of you.”

“You bastard!” Jack exclaimed angrily.

“Jack! Calm down!” Mason held him back, trying to make sure that he doesn’t try to kill Rantaro.

“Everyone, calm down.” Nicole called, her tone acting stern. “Look…it’s best if we all board the train and head towards this Crystal Empire. Twilight, Jamie, Ren, can you three share us the detail about this place?”

“Sure thing.” I nodded in agreement. 

“O-Okay.’ Jamie replied.

“Don’t worry, it won’t take that long.” Twilight grinned. “Now come on everypony, let’s get to the Crystal Empire.”

“Crystal Empire…” Carrie muttered.

“Something wrong Carrie?” Mason asked in worried.

“Oh…it’s nothing wrong big brother, but…I can’t help but feel like I’ve…heard that name…” Carrie winced in pain, which alarmed the others. “N-Ngh!”

“C-Carrie!” Mason and Rarity towards her and looked at her with great concern. “Are you okay?!”

“Y-yeah…” Carrie nodded in agreement.

“What happened, Li’l Carrie?” Rarity asked in worried.

“I-It was a headache, but…I feel as though I remember something.” We all stared at her with surprised looks. Did she…remember something? “B-But…it’s too hard and too static…Ow…”

“Hmm…” Nicole stared at her for a whole before letting out a small gasp.

“Huh? Something wrong Nicole?” I asked in concern.

“…How…does she know what it looks like?” Huh? How does…Wait, is she talking about..?!

“Wait, are you talking-”

“About the Crystal Empire, yes.” Nicole nodded. “As a matter of fact, I feel as though you and Jamie know this too, right?”

“Y-yeah…” Jamie nodded while the others grew confused. “Princess Celestia and Luna told us that the Crystal Empire is somewhat related to our lost memories, and it looks like Carrie remembered some about it.”

“Really?!” Kaede asked in shock.

“But…how? Why would she remember about the Crystal Empire?” Kodi asked curiously while Rantaro looked at each of us with a somewhat intrigued yet serious look on his face.


“More importantly, if she says that it relates to our memories…then why do we feel as though we’ve seen this Crystal Empire too?” Rantaro wondered.

“Yeah…that is strange…” Kaede nodded. “Maybe…we might learn something if we go there.”

“Well if so, then let’s go!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “We promised you guys to get you all back home and getting your memories back!”

“Me too!” Pinkie nodded in agreement. “We wanna help ya all! Besides, this missing memory is so clouded in your heads! We wanna wipe away those cloudy thoughts to get your memories back!”

“What?” Kodi asked confusedly.

“Stop talking like you’re an idiot, you pink weirdo!” Jack yelled out.

“Calm down, dude.” I called with a concern look, not wanting him to hurt anyone else. I know how he is what with attacking anyone who angers him that easily. “Anyway…we should probably head out and get to the Crystal Empire. I think it’s in the arctic north, right?”

“Arctic north?!” Kaede exclaimed. “You mean…in the cold?!”

“Oh, well I guess it’s a perfect time!” Rarity beamed in excitement.

“What? What are you talking about?” I asked in confusion.

“I packed a bunch of scarves for us all to wear in case of an emergency such as this!” Rarity beamed happily.

“Well…that’s pretty helpful.” Kaede sweat-dropped with an awkward smile.

“Okay.” Nicole shrugged. “Let’s go then.”

“Very well, let us go and see this Crystal Empire.” Mason smiled a bit.

“Yeah!” We all cheered with determined looks. Well, it looks like we’re heading to our next stop: The Crystal Empire. Hopefully, we can search for the answers to our lost memories. Hopefully…and…I was hoping to talk with a certain someone. It’s concerning about the last memory just before we came here to Canterlot and I didn’t find the opportunity to talk to her about it, but hopefully she can at least give me a decent conversation with me.



Later

And so, we began to trip towards the arctic north A.K.A. the Crystal Empire. During our train ride, me, Jamie, and Twilight tried our best to tell them as much about the Crystal Empire and what Twilight’s test had to be. The others were shocked but overjoyed to hear this, encouraging Twilight that she’ll do great.

However, me and Jamie didn’t tell them about the Umbrum Army because we made a promise to the princesses about this. I mean, we don’t want to stress Twilight even more. Though, Jamie hated to lie to Twilight about not knowing much. Though…I can’t help but feel if those two saw through my lies. What? Oh…I’m talking about Rantaro and Nicole. Those two can easily see our lies and know that we’re hiding something. Hopefully that they don’t see through us.

Soon, we finally arrived to our destination: the Arctic North. Boy…they weren’t kidding around. I can hardly believe that there would be a train station around in the middle of nowhere!

“Brr! What the hell?!” Jack exclaimed in anger. “Why the hell is it so cold out here?!”

“Because we’re in the middle of the arctic, duh.” Rantaro rolled his eyes.

“M-Man…it’s so c-c-cold!” Kaede yelled out.

“You can say that again…” Kodi nodded before letting out a ‘Brr’ sound. “I have a fur coat and yet I can still feel the cold.”

“B-Big brother!” Carrie whined, causing Mason to take off his sweater and wrapped it around her as a coat. 

“Don’t worry Carrie, you’ll be alright.” Mason assured with a soft smile. 

“Big brother…but what about you?” Carrie asked in worried.

“Do not worry, I’m one step-ahead of you all.” Rarity walked over and places a scarf for each of us to wear. She made a smug grin and said “Ha! And you all made fun of me for packing so many scarves.”

“Ugh, I didn’t even say a word!” We all turned around and saw Spike carrying a bunch of suitcases filled with scarves. 

“Oh please, allow me Spike.” Mason offered, walking over and carrying them for him. “Trust me, I’ve dealt stuff like this.”

“Ha ha, thanks Mason!” Spike grinned, earning a smile from him.

“Hmm…it’s pretty cold.” Nicole stated. “I’ve never seen this kind of blizzard before.”

“Well welcome to the 21st century.” Rantaro rolled his eyes.

“I know what snow is, Rantaro.” Nicole retorted sternly. “I mean that this storm…for some reason, it’s messing up my iPad.”

“Huh? What do you mean Nikki?” Kodi asked in concern.

“I mean that for some reason, it’s making the reception look bad on here.” Nicole showed us her iPad and saw that it was making a lot of static. 

“Huh…that is weird.” I thought aloud.

“W-well anyway…maybe we should all get out of here, right?” Jamie suggested. “Where do you think it is?”

“Good question.” Twilight muttered, looking over at the frozen wasteland with a concern look. But before any of us could do anything…

“Twilight!” Huh? We all turned around and saw a figure walking towards us. Twilight squinted her eyes before calling “Shining Armor?”

Soon, the figure revealed itself a pony wearing a black scarf, protective snow goggles covering his eyes until he levitated them to rest on his horn.

“Twily, you made it!” Shining smiled happily, which seemed to gotten Twilight happy too as she rushed over to him and hugged him.

“Shiny!” Twilight hugged her brother while the rest of us smiled upon seeing him. Once their hug ended, she looked at him with a concern look and asked “Are you okay?”

“What? You kidding? I’m perfectly fine.” Shining chuckled before noticing the rest of us. “Oh, you’re all here.”

“Hello Mr. Shining.” Jamie greeted shyly.

“Hey Jamie!” Shining grinned before shaking his hand. “I take it you and my sister have been getting along, right?”

“Y-yes sir. The two of us have been doing so well. In fact, we’ve been getting along very well.” Jamie blushed a bit, along with Twilight. Shining Armor looked between them before nodding.

“I see…” Shining made a teasing smile at them and said “You two sure are getting along, love-birds.”

“Shining!” Twilight shouted with a massive blush while Jamie covered his face with his notebook with an embarrassed look on his face. The rest of us chuckled as Mason made his way and bowed at Shining Armor before saying “We meet again, Captain Armour.”

“Mason, you don’t have to call me that.” Shining chuckled. “We’re friends, so call me Shining Armour.”

“True, but it feels wrong that I don’t address you as that.” Mason stated with a soft smile.

“Ah…I take it that you thought about the offer, eh?” Shining guessed, which made Mason tensed up a bit before he slightly nodded and replied “Yes…but I think it’s best if I told you when all of this is over.”

“I see…” Shining Armour nodded before forming a solemn look at the rest of us. “Now come on everypony. We’d better get moving. There are things out here we really don’t want to run into after dark.”

Fluttershy gulped in fear as she held against my arm and asked “What…kind of things?”

“Let’s just say the Empire…isn’t the only thing that’s returned.” What? Is he referring to…Oh no, so…he’s really back. Oh dammit…this is so not good. I just hope my Hacking Gun is strong enough against him.

“Eh? What is he talking about?” Jack asked. 

“I don’t know…but it’s giving me the shivers.” Kodi whimpered till I petted him on the head and gave him an assuring smile.

“Don’t worry dude, I promise that we’ll be alright.” I assured confidently. “We just…need to be careful.”

“R-Ren’s right…we’ll be alright…right?” Fluttershy asked, holding onto me in fear. I nodded in agreement while I noticed Nicole looking at me curiously, much to my confusion. What’s up with her? Speaking of which, what’s up with everyone always looking at me strangely? First Princess Luna, and now her? Is there something on my face or…?

…Never mind. Anyway, how about we move on, right? Okay.

So, we all began to head out through the frozen wasteland as we tried to surpass the frozen wasteland. Spike, Rarity, Mason, and Carrie trekked through the snow what with our friend carrying those suitcases with the other three walking behind him, possibly protection. 

“Something keeps trying to get in! We think it’s the unicorn king who originally cursed the place.” Shining yelled out as the blizzard roared through our faces.

“W-wait…you mean King Sombra?!” Jamie exclaimed in shock.

“But Princess Celestia said I was being sent here to find a way to protect the Empire!” Twilight called out. “If King Sombra can’t get in, then it must already be protected.”

“It would seem so, but how? I thought that the empire’s defenses were down since it somehow magically reappeared from out of nowhere!” Jamie added.

“How about you both shut the hell up so that we can figure it out?!” Jack screamed, causing the two of them to glare at him. But before those two could argue back…

…We heard a howl. We all froze in shock as Fluttershy held onto my arm as she was shaking with fear and asked “Th-That’s one of the things, isn’t it?”

Kodi growled a bit before turning around and saw some sort of giant dark shadow heading our way.

“Guh! We have to get to the Crystal Empire! Now!” Shining Armor yelled out.

The giant dark shadow erupted from the snow and from the darkness did appear a very familiar pair of frightening eyes!

“I-I-It’s him!” Jamie exclaimed in shock and horror.

“This is bad! We need to get out of here!” Kaede yelled out.

“Who cares?! Let’s get the heck out of here!” Kodi yelled out.

“GO! GO!” Twilight screamed before the rest of us begins to run away in fear as the giant shadow started chasing us. Mason abandoned all of Rarity suitcases and grabbed her, Spike, and Carrie by the arms as he began running ahead from us, catching up with Shining Armor while the rest of us continued to run away.

“Jeez, what? Did this guy woke up from the wrong side of the bed?!” Rantaro asked, holding onto his hat while Gizmo hanged on tight on his shoulder.

“Hang on! Let me try shooting him down!” I suggested, pulling out my Hacking Gun and pointing it towards him. “Burn!”

I shot multiple ‘Burn’ bullets towards him, but it was past him.

“What?! It…went through him?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“Who cares about that?!” Rainbow Dash yelled out. “If it ain’t working, then we need to gallop as fast as we could!”

“I agree!” Jamie nodded, panting as he kept up with us. “Right now, we need to find a safe place to hide!”

“Don’t worry! We’re almost there!” Shining Armor shouted, pointing over to let us see a shiny blue dome. I stared at it with a surprised look. Whoa…is that the Crystal Empire? It looks like it’s being protected, but by who?

“W-Whoa!” I turned back and saw Kodi falling on the side and tried to get up, but he winced upon seeing his paw badly bruised up. 

“Kodiak!” I screamed before running back and helping him up. “Hang on bud!”

“R-Ren…go on without me!” Kodiak begged, but I shook my head and replied “No…I ain’t gonna leave ya pal.”

“Ren…” Kodi looked at me with a surprised look before softly smiling. Suddenly, our little moment ended as we heard growling as we looked up and saw King Sombra roaring at us. I quickly grabbed my Hacking Gun and set it with Knock-Back before shooting it at him, but it had no effect to him.

“It’s not working!” I gulped, sweating nervously before holding onto Kodiak. Suddenly, we were pushed aside as we looked over and saw Shining Armor and Mason standing in front of us.

“Ren! Get out of here and go!” Mason yelled out.

“We’ll handle this! Get Kodi towards the dome and stay there! We’ll buy you guys more time!” Shining added, giving me a stern look.

“But-”

“Just go!” They both shouted, causing me and Kodi to wince before nodding as I picked up Kodiak as we immediately ran back, but till I heard some shouting.

“Bring it on! You don’t fear us!” I stopped before looking back and saw the dark shadow slowly surrounding them. I turned a bit pale before biting my upper lip and looked away.

“I’m sorry you guys…” I muttered before running towards the dome. No, I have to believe that Mason and Shining Armor can beat that thing. Hopefully that they can succeed.

With that, we entered through the dome as we saw the others catching their breaths.

“Phew…that was too close…” Kaede sighed in relief.

“It would seem that we were able to surpass that mysterious fog.” Nicole stated, which made Jack scoffed.

“Way to state the obvious, Captain Obvious.” Jack scoffed.

“Wait…where’s Shining?” Twilight looks around and noticed that he wasn’t around.

“And big brother?” Carrie asked in worried.

“He put us inside before following after Shining Armour to…” Rarity let out a gasp before looking back behind me and Kodiak. “No…he didn’t…”

“Oh no…” Applejack muttered.

“We have to go back!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Crap! What was that idiot thinking?!” Jack exclaimed in anger. “That idiot…!”

“Wait, hold on you guys!” I stopped them with a serious look. “They’ll come back! I know they will!”

“You seemed pretty confident.” Rantaro pointed out.

“True, but you look pretty worried, concern, scared, but you’re placing your faith in them.” Nicole added, looking at me curiously. 

“Well…” I looked back at the dome wall with a concern look before forming a small smile. “I’m scared and worried for them, but I gotta keep believing in my friends like them for example.”

“Ren’s right.” Carrie nodded, pouting a bit. “I want to believe in big brother and my friends.”

“Well…but still…” Jamie walked over and held Twilight’s hoof and looked at her with a soft smile.

“D-don’t worry…I-I know that they can do it. They’re both brave, after all.” Jamie grinned softly yet nervously, which seemed to gotten Twilight to smile back at him.

“O-Okay…I’ll believe in them…” Twilight sighed. 

“Ow…my paw…” Kodi groaned, slowly shaking his right paw till wincing in pain. Fluttershy gasped in shock before flying over and examining his paw.

“Oh dear! It looks pretty injured! We gotta help tend it!” Fluttershy cried out.

“I know…he accidentally tripped and gotten his paw hurt.” I explained worriedly.

“Poor Kodi…” Kaede muttered till Rosy appeared out of her bag and jumped out of there before running over and looking at Kodiak with an extremely worried look. Fluttershy picked up and showed her in front of Kodi, who smiled softly before he licked at her, which made her happy and feel relax before she nuzzled him on the cheek.

“H-hey…! Stop that! That tickles!” Kodi laughed, which made some of us laughed. What? It was a cute moment and…we needed to calm down right after getting chased by a demon. It reminds me of that chase scene from Deltarune. Only except that the enemy isn’t attacking you with card symbols.

“AHH!”

“OOF!”

Huh? What the heck?! We all turned and saw two familiar figures falling out through the dome’s shield.

“Oh, no! Shining Armor!” Twilight let go of Jamie’s hand as the two rushed over to his and Mason’s side.

“Big brother!”

“Mason!” Carrie and Rarity rushed over to Mason’s side as he coughed violently and looked at them with a painful look, but held a soft smile.

“D-Don’t worry you guys…we’re alright.” Mason assured, only to get hugged tightly by the two. “W-whoa…Rarity? Carrie?”

“Mason Hunter! What were you thinking?! You and Shining could’ve been killed!” Rarity cried out. “Do you know how worried you gotten Carrie? Even me!?”

Before any of us could say anything, she slapped Mason hard on the right cheek, causing him to wince in pain.

“O-Ow!” Mason hissed before looking at Rarity while rubbing his cheek. “Ugh…that isn’t gonna get old, isn’t it?”

“Of course not! You worried us! Even your own sister! You and Shining could have been killed!” Rarity screamed out.

We all stared at Rarity with shocked look, seeing tears forming around her eyes. Mason looked at her with a regretful look before sighing “I’m sorry Miss Rarity…I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings, and neither did you Carrie.”

“It’s okay big brother. At least you and Shining are alright.” Carrie sighed in relief.

“Same here. What the hell happened back there?” Jack asked before noticing something off on Shining Armor. “And what the hell happened to your horn?”

“Huh?” Shining looked up and gasped a bit upon seeing black crystals formed around on the tip of the horn. 

“Shining Armor, your horn!” Twilight gasped.

Shining began concentrated as hard as he can…only to groan as he got a headache before rubbing his head.

“Ugh…it’s no use.” Shining sighed. “Guess I won’t be using any spells or magic for a while.”

“I-I’m sorry about your horn, Shining Armor.” Jamie apologized sadly. “I should have stayed behind and help you.”

“Don’t be like that Jamie.” Shining Armor assured with a soft smile. “You watched over my sister and her friends, that’s all.”

“He’s right. You did well, Jamie.” I added with a soft smile, which earned a blush from him as he was being overwhelmed by the compliments.

“T-Thank you everyone…” Jamie muttered.

“So what happened back there?” Jack asked.

“I’m not sure, but we were saved by some cloaked pony.” We all blinked and stared at Mason with a confused look. He held a serious look before looking back at the dome as he began telling us his story. “It was right after we gotten both Ren and Kodiak to head towards the dome…”



Flashback

Ren runs through the dome with Kodiak in his hands as Mason took out his bamboo pole while Shining Armor’s horn glowed as they gazed towards the dark shadow as they heard an evil laugh emanating out of it.

“I take it that this shadow is that evil tyrant that enslaved the Crystal Empire back then?” Mason asked. 

“Yeah, and I gotta say…” Shining formed a cocky grin. “He sure looks pretty ugly for a king, eh?”

“For sure.” Mason nodded solemnly, but not till he formed a small smile. “But even so, it was pretty stupid of you to come all this way and fight it all by yourself.”

“And what? You don’t realize that you came with me too?” Shining asked cockily. Mason chuckled before replying “Good point, Shining.”

The shadow let out a roar before it began speaking.

“You human…you are one of the seeds…the seeds…of hope…” Mason stared at the mysterious dark shadow with a confused look. “Well…Father was not kidding…it would seem that you have its power…”

“Void? What are you going on about?” Mason demanded.

“That is for me to know, and for you two…” The eyes glowed more dark green than usual as he charged towards them and roared “…TO DIE!”

“Not on my watch!” Mason huffed before leaping back, dodging the shadow before using its bamboo pole in hopes of slicing it, but it had no effect. “What?”

“It’s just a shadow, Mason! We can’t even damage it!” Shining hissed angrily before shooting a magic beam at it, causing it to dodge that before growling towards Shining Armor. 

“You insubordinate little cretin! You shall pay for nearly shooting the great King Sombra down!” The cloud began forming before it began shooting dark green beams towards him. Mason managed to push him aside to avoid the hit as the two landed harshly on the snowy field. Shining shook his head violently to get rid some of the snow on his head before grinning softly at Mason.

“Thanks for the save, Mason.” Shining thanked.

“Don’t mention it.” Mason nodded before glaring at the dark shadow cloud. “This ends here, King Sombra. You stay away from the Crystal Empire and everything!”

“Tch! You dare tell me what to do?! Prepare to die!” King Sombra roared before firing another dark beam towards him. Mason charged before leaping upwards, dodging the attack and slicing him with his bamboo pole, but the cloud went through it and recreated it. 

“What?!” Mason hissed. “Nothing is even fazing this…thing.”

“Hmph! Is that the best you got, human?” King Sombra laughed maniacally as Mason growled and glared at him before feeling a headache on his head as he saw some sort of static of himself around a giant crystal-like palace in his head, but the memory was flashing for him to even remember what it was. King Sombra leered at Mason before firing a dark green beam at him.

“Mason! Watch out!” Shining pushed Mason away before taking the hit himself, straight at the horn, which made some bits of black crystal to block off the tip of his horn before he fell onto the snowy floor.

“Shining Armor!” Mason cried out before rushing over and picking him up in his arms.

“MWAHAHAHAHAHA! Do you all truly believe that you can defeat me?! The Unicorn Whose Heart Was Black As Night? King Sombra!?” King Sombra laughed, earning a cold and dark look from Mason.

“You are truly a monster…you will pay for this!” Mason hissed angrily. King Sombra stared at him for a while with narrowed eyes.

“….Hmph! It doesn’t matter…it’s time for you two to accept my judgement!” Before King Sombra could attack, a powerful beam of light hit him from behind, causing him to hiss before looking back and saw a hooded figure wearing a red hoodie. “What?!”

“Stop this! You will not harm them!” The figure shouted, surprising Mason. The red cloaked figure turned to them and pointed at the dome. “You need to get him towards the dome right away! I’ll hold him off!”

“W-who are you?” Mason demanded. “You can’t take him on! Let me-”

“His safety is more important than fighting off Sombra! Now hurry!” The figure demanded, which Mason seemed to understand before nodding as he carried Shining Armor towards the dome.

“No! You shall not escape my judgement!” King Sombra roared angrily as he tried chasing after them, but the red cloaked figure fired another beam of crystallized light at him, causing him to wince in pain before dissolving and in moments later, started reforming itself. Mason kept panting and ran as fast as he could while holding onto Shining Armor till he looked back and saw King Sombra surrounding the red cloaked figure before he jumped through the dome as the two landed hard on the ground.

Flashback Ended



“Whoa! So someone else helped you guys out?!” I asked in shock. “That’s pretty bold for them.”

“I agree!” Fluttershy agreed. “Do you think that mysterious pony is gonna be alright?”

“I wish so…” Mason looks back with a worried look. “I want to go back, but right now…all of your safety is my priority.”

“Don’t take it too hard, Mason.” Shining slowly got back up with a soft smile. “You didn’t mean for this to happen, and you were just trying to help out, that’s all.”

“I know…” Mason sighed till he felt Carrie holding onto his hand with a big grin on her face.

“Don’t worry big brother! I know that you tried your best! Even Shining Armor!” Carrie assured with a soft smile.

“Carrie…” Mason muttered before smiling softly at her and nodded.

“And I believe this belongs to you.” Rarity used her magic to give Mason his sweater. She looks at him with a soft smile, but I noticed a small blush on her face. “Y-you know…you were pretty cold out, so I-I thought you were needed it and…sorry for slapping you.”

Mason looked at her with a surprised look before smiling and nodding at her before putting his sweater back on.

“How can this guy have that much muscle?” Rainbow Dash whispered to Jack, who shrugged and replied “I don’t frigging know…”

“You guys! Look!” We all turned to Pinkie, who was staring at something that was far off from us. We all stared at her with confused looks before looking at her direction and let out gasps.

“Ah…!” I gasped as I held my mouth in a jaw-dropping expression as I slowly walked over and kept gasping, along with the others upon seeing the place. We all stared at the gorgeous crystals that was far off from us, and over there…was the Crystal Empire. Everything just from this distance…was awe-inspiring! It’s like you’re seeing a new destination that gets you so excited like from the start of a Persona game, or in a Final Fantasy game. 

I mean, look at this place! The entire town is made out of crystals! Even the building and that giant sky-scraper looking castle!

“Sparkleriffic!” Pinkie mused herself with an excited grin.

“Whoa…” Kodi muttered in awe. “This place looks awesome!”

“Well…they sure know how to make a place look all that crystallizing.” Rantaro chuckled before picking up a small crystal-like flower from the ground. “Like seriously…is this possible?”

“Amazing! An entire kingdom made out of any type of crystal!” Jamie exclaimed, his eyes sparkling in excitement. “I mean…how is that even possible?!”

“I have no idea.” Twilight replied, her tone filled with excitement as well.

I looked over and saw the others looking at the place with amazement and awe. Oh man…If I had my phone, I would totally tweet this on Twitter or even at Instagram! Nah…I think maybe Facebook.

Heck, even Nicole is staring at the place with a shocked look.

“Amazing…I….never seen this structure before…” Nicole muttered in awe. “Hm? Oh…the service on my iPad is back online…”

She looked through her iPad and softly smiled.

“Astonishing…I need to analyze my surroundings…” Nicole muttered.

“Analyze?” Applejack asked.

“Well I need to know much about this place…” Nicole replied. “Now let’s go…”

With that, she began to take her leave while Rantaro began catching up with her while the rest of us began following after them and headed towards the small town.

“Heh, you sound pretty excited.” Rantaro gave Nicole an amused look while she kept gazing at her iPad as she replied “I…wasn’t really.”

“No need to hide your emotions away.” He placed a hand around her shoulder with a cocky grin. “Keeping them lock away is just make the others feel suspicious of you. I mean, what with your talent on advanced, and Analytical psychology and studying the human emotions, you seemed pretty airtight…”

“…Are you mocking my talent?” Nicole asked, her tone feeling a bit irked.

“What? I’m just saying.” Rantaro shrugged before sighing “But man…I guess maybe this whole little trip wasn’t a waste of my time. I can’t wait to see what this place has in store for me…”

I let out a sigh and sweat-dropped. This guy can’t be serious, right? Oh well…at least he’s feeling happy, at least…right?

“It’s gorgeous! Absolutely gorgeous!” Rarity begins mumbling incoherently at the sight of the crystallized town. “There are no words!”

“Miss Rarity, please calm down.” Mason sighed, folding his arms with a solemn look. “We need to keep calm.”

“Well it’s understandable why she’s acting like this.” Kaede chuckled nervously. “I mean, this place is filled with crystals and she’s known for her love for crystals.” Kaede scratched her cheek with an awkward smile and added “I mean, she even has a gem-finding spell.”

“That is true, I’ll admit.” Mason nodded, which made me chuckle.

Well it’s true.

Sooner or later, we arrived to that sky-scraper like castle as we were underneath it. Man…it makes me feel like I was at some baseball stadium. Hmm…Dang it, where’s a phone when you need one?

Rarity looks around in awe, nearly at the verge of breaking down upon seeing the place. Jack came over and gave her an intimidating look and said “Hey, focus loon. We’re here to help the purple chick, not admire the scenery like you’re some stupid tourist.”

“Eh, I don’t see the big deal is. Just looks like another old castle to me.” Rainbow Dash shrugged.

“A–p–guh! Another old…! Have you lost your mind?!” Rarity yelled out. “Look at the magni-”

“Did you hear that?” Jack asked both Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Five seconds passed and he made a smug grin and said “That’s right…nothing.”

Applejack and Rainbow Dash laughed, earning a sigh from the fashionista as she muttered “Very funny.”

“Astonishing…this castle looks very beautiful. As expected from an ancient kingdom such as this, right?” Jamie asked, writing some facts down on his notebook.

“Yeah!” Twilight grinned before we walked inside through the doors and headed inside, finding the inside of the castle look pretty fancy looking compared to the one at Canterlot Castle. 

“Thanks for holding onto me, Ren…” Kodi thanked as I continued to hold onto him. 

“Don’t worry bud, I’m sure once we find a place to relax, Fluttershy can help you out.” I assured. “And I’ll help you out.”

“But…I don’t think you’re good with bandaging wounds and bruises or even cuts.” Kodiak pointed out.

“Well I have to do something. I am your owner/best friend after all.” I reminded him.

Kodi thought that for a while before smiling at me.

“Well…you make a good point.” Kodi nodded. 

I chuckled before looking at the others before…

“Huh…?” What the? D-did…my eyes just play tricks on me or did Mason’s shadow…just moved around a bit? Huh…that was pretty weird. I guess…I’m just seeing things. Hmm…and suddenly, I’m getting creepy vibes like I once had when I regretted playing Five Nights At Freddy’s…

Sooner or later, we all arrived to the throne room, where we saw another familiar friend of ours.

“Cadance!” Twilight shouted with an excited grin.

“Twilight!” Cadance weakly smiled at her before running off of the throne. The moment the two came across each other, they began their little theme song.

“Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!”

We all stared at them with nervous grins while Rantaro rolled his eyes and scoffed “Do we really have time for that?”

“Of course we do. We have time for everything.” Twilight retorted.

“Ha ha ha!” Princess Cadance chuckled, but her tone of voice felt weak. “One of these days we need to get together when the fate of Equestria isn’t hanging in the balance.”

She let out a sigh as I took noticed of her eyes, which made widened my eyes in shock.

“Are you okay?” I asked in concern.

“Cadance has been able to use her magic to spread love and light.” Shining explained. “That seems to be what is protecting it. But she hasn’t slept, barely eats.”

“Oh no…” Jamie muttered. “T-that’s bad…but if she doesn’t sleep or eats well, her mana could increasingly drain down.”

“I know, and I want to help her, but…” Shining kept trying to use his magic, but the tip of his horn kept flickering due to those small black crystal fragments were blocking his magic. “…My protection spell has been countered by King Sombra.”

Princess Cadance began breathing deeply before we noticed outside was starting to look rather different before she began making her horn glow and the blue sky looked normal again.

“It’s alright Shining Armor, I’m fine.” Cadance assured.

“Whoa…is this her doing?” I asked in surprise.

“I see…so it’s her protection spell.” Nicole said. “And it keeps draining your energy?”

“D-Don’t worry everypony…I’m fine…” Cadance took a deep breath and let out a heavy sigh. “I’m…just…so tired…”

“She’s not fine.” Shining stated. “She can’t go on like this forever, and if her magic were to fade…Well, you saw what’s out there waiting for that to happen.”

“Y-yeah…I don’t need to remember that.” Jamie sighed.

“And that’s why we’re here.” Twilight said, realizing the situation.

“No, why we’re all here.” I corrected her with a smile. “We need to protect the kingdom from the wrath of King Sombra, and it’ll be a piece of cake, am I right?”

“Heh, need you have to say, kid?” Jack joked, crossing his arms with a cocky grin. “I’m in.”

“Me too!” Carrie called.

“Same here. Right now, we need to focus and find a way in order to protect the Crystal Empire before Princess Cadance could get too exhausted to work up on her protection spell.” Mason stated, crossing his arms.

“Yeah! Let’s do this together!” Kaede exclaimed.

“Well, with Cadance putting all her strength into keeping her spell going, and me trying to keep an eye on signs of trouble in the arctic, we haven’t been able to gather much information from the Crystal Ponies.” Shining explained.

“Crystal Ponies?!” Rarity asked in shock before giggling uncontrollably. “Hahahaha, there are Crystal Ponies?!”

“Miss Rarity…” Mason called, his tone feeling concern. “Are you alright? You seemed to be acting a little off.”

“Yeah, like your character was a bit-off there.” I added.

“Um, ahem.” Rarity blushed and cleared her throat. “Please continue.”

“But we have to believe one of them knows how we can protect the Empire without having to use Cadance’s magic.” Shining said, looking at Cadance with a concern look.

“Well..that is a problem.” Kodi whimpered. “What can we do?”

We all looked at each other, wondering if any of us has an idea.

That was when those two shouted out a solution for us to handle.

“A research paper!” Jamie and Twilight shouted in unison, startling the others, even Shining.

“H-huh?” Shining asked in confusion.

“How the hell can something like that help us?” Jack questioned.

“Jack…” Kaede scolded. “How about we listen to what they say? Maybe they know something.”

“That must be part of my test!” Twilight exclaimed. “To gather information from the Crystal Ponies and deliver it to you!”

“Maybe so!” Jamie nodded, feeling excited as much as Twilight. “I mean, we can learn as much about the Crystal Ponies and see what this place has, and what was use as a means of defense and protection from enemy forces back then. This could be it.”

“So basically, we’re gonna be doing homework?” Rantaro asked before scoffing “Yeah…right. Count me out.”

With that, Rantaro began taking his leave till he was stopped by Rainbow Dash.

“Now hold on! We’re doing this together! We have to save the Crystal Empire!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“I rather not waste my time. Besides, your princess will be fine…for now.” Rantaro replied with a bored look, but that seemed to upset Shining Armor as he walked towards Rantaro with a stern look and confronted him face-to-face.

“This isn’t a game where you can sit around and do nothing! She’s suffering from exhaustion from using too much of her energy and could end up lose all of her energy to keep the protection spell on check!” Shining yelled out, which seemed to gotten Rantaro to give him a bored look.

“So? It’s not my problem, captain.” Rantaro scoffed. “If you knew that would happen, then why didn’t you do something about it?”

“W-what?” Shining asked.

“If you knew that might happen, you should have used the protection spell on yourself like you did last time or does it bring you flashbacks on when you abandoned your sister when siding with that bug queen?” Rantaro smirked, earning anger looks from the others while some of us felt as if this was going nowhere.

Why would Rantaro bring that up? I know it happened a month ago, but there’s no need to talk about it.

“Why you-!” Shining’s face grew steaming mad as he was about to punch Rantaro till Mason stopped him. “Let me at him! He’s gonna need pay!”

“It’s no use, Shining!” Mason exclaimed. “You need to calm down! You’re scaring the others!”

“He’s right!” I nodded in agreement. “I mean, we can’t all fight around like this! If we’re gonna save the Crystal Empire, we all need to work together as a team! So come on, no fighting!”

“I’m just pointing something out.” Rantaro shrugged. “It’s the cold, hard truth that everyone needs to face.”

“And I suppose you don’t take the truth, huh?” Applejack asked suspiciously. Rantaro glanced away in thought, his face turning a bit…dull? 

“I will, I always love taking any insult people give to me. When I’ll be able to learn that the lie that I thought about years ago is truly a lie, then I’ll learn the truth.” Rantaro stated, earning confused looks from us.

“R-Rantaro?” Jamie called.

“Tch! It’s none of your business. Now see ya, I’ll be searching out on my own.” Rantaro took his leave while the rest of us looked at each other while Mason managed to calm Shining down.

“Shining…” Mason gave him a solemn yet worried look. “I understand how you feel about him, but right now, just ignore what he says. We need to focus on what we need to do and find out much about the Crystal Empire. If we manage to find a source of energy other than Princess Cadance’s protection spell, then she’ll be able to rest.”

Shining Armor looked at him for a while before sighing and smiling softly at him.

“Yeah…okay.” Shining replied.

“You okay Shining?” Twilight asked as she and Cadance walked over to him.

“Yeah…I think so.” Shining nodded, gulping a bit. “Sorry if I scared some of you.”

“It’s okay. It’s not your fault.” Fluttershy assured. 

“Fluttershy’s right.” Carrie nodded in agreement as she held Rarity’s hoof. “I mean…we don’t need to fight against each other like last time, right?”

“Carrie, don’t say that.” I said with a soft smile. “We’re all pretty tensed up due to trying to save the Crystal Empire, but we’ll be able to make up our mistakes if we all not fight against each other and instead, work together.”

“Well said Ren!” Applejack grinned. “Just ignore what that hobo Rantaro says, we don’t need him.”

“Yeah, but he got off lucky this time…” Jack scoffed.

“Umm…guys?” Kaede called. “Where did Nicole go?”

“Oh, she’s right over here!” Pinkie pointed her hoof right to where she stood, but to her surprise, she wasn’t around. “Huh? No wait…maybe over there? Oh no, she’s gone! Did she disappeared like a ghost?!”

“I don’t think that’s what happened, Pinkie…” Kaede sweat-dropped.

“Yeah, she…probably either went off on her own like Rantaro or is following after him?” I suggested.

“Oh, of course she had the last person to disappear right from our eyes.” Rainbow Dash sighed exasperatedly.

“Well either way, we should focus on our mission.” Twilight said with a serious look. “Right now, we have some research to do.”

“You’re right!” Jamie grinned. “I-I can already feel pretty excited about this.”

“Me too Jamie! This is gonna be great! I love research papers!” Twilight grinned excitedly.

“Yeah, who doesn’t?” Jack scoffed.

“Oh-oh-oh! Lemme guess!” Pinkie raised her hoof in the air before pointing over one of us. “Is it Spike? Nono, Fluttershy! Rarity? Rennie? Ran? Kay? Kodi?”

“Uhh…” Kaede and I sweat-dropped while Kodi raised a brow at her.

“Well anyway, we should get to work.” I suggested. “I mean, there’s gotta be somepony that will help us, right?”

“Ren’s right. I mean, they’ve been through a lot, so maybe they could help.” Jamie nodded. 

“Are you all sure you can do this?” Shining asked.

“Don’t worry, big brother. I am really good at this sort of thing.” Twilight assured with a confident look on her face.

“Hell yeah!” Jack yelled out, cracking his knuckles. “If anypony is hiding something, they won’t escape from my wrath!”

“I rather not…” Jamie muttered, flinching away from him.

“Well then! Come on everypony! Let’s go!” Rainbow Dash yelled out.

“Wait! While we’re at it, I think it’s best if I gotten Kodiak to get his paw treated.” I reminded everypony.

“Don’t worry, there’s a guest room where he can rest.” Shining offered.

“I can come with you Ren. I am an animal caretaker and I have many experiences with stuff like this.” Fluttershy offered.

“Thanks Flutters.” I chuckled with a soft smile. “We’ll meet you all up at town. Till then, we’ll see you later.”

“Good luck you guys.” Twilight smiled softly at me, Fluttershy, and Kodi before she and the others began taking their leave.

“Actually, it’s best if I stay too.” Mason offered. “I…wish to speak with Shining Armor right at the moment.”

“Well…maybe.” Shining shrugged.

“Well Mason darling, you might as well deserved some rest after what you’ve been through.” Rarity smiled.

“Yeah! Don’t worry big brother! We’re gonna go and help them out!” Carrie assured with a smirk. “Don’t worry about me! I got Rarity and the rest of my friends by my side!”

“I see…very well then.” Mason nodded as the others began taking their leave. But as they were about to leave the throne room, Carrie immediately runs back to her and hugs her brother, catching him off-guard before he smiled back at her and hugged her back.

With that, she went off and went to catch up with the others while those of us that stayed behind went to stay and help out Kodiak.



Later
Mason’s POV

“There we go…” Soon after the others left, Ren and Fluttershy took Kodiak to the guest room before she managed to wrapped the bandage around his wounded paw, causing him to whimper painfully while Ren scratched him underneath the chin, which may have calm him down a bit. I was busy watching this from outside of the guest room seeing them helping their dog friend.

“Ow…” Kodi moaned. “How long till my paw heals?”

“I think till the end of the day, it doesn’t look too serious.” Fluttershy stated.

“Well that’s a relief.” Ren sighed in relief before smiling at him. “You’re lucky that I managed to see you fall down like that.”

“Thanks again Ren.” Kodi smiled before licking his and Fluttershy’s face, causing the two to laugh. I smiled over by the door as I heard Fluttershy speaking.

“You know, I’m happy that you have an owner like Ren.” Fluttershy praised, earning a minor blush on Ren’s face.

“C-Come on…I’m not that good, Flutters. I’m just some doing what anyone might do to love their pets/friends.” Ren replied.

“But still, you helped me out and were even trying to help both Mason and Shining Armor back there.” Kodiak pointed out. “I say that you’re really a kind guy.”

“Not really.” Ren chuckled.

“Well I think so too.” Kodiak smiled softly. “You’re…willing to protect anyone. I mean, you’re even helping us all save the Crystal Empire along with the Crystal Ponies.”

“Hey, it’s what I do.” Ren smiled while I couldn’t help but smile at them. Those two get along so well…

“Hey Mason…” Huh? I looked back and saw Shining walking towards me. “Just wanted to let you know our sisters and the rest of your friends are still searching out for info.”

“I see. Thank you for letting me know.” I smiled softly. “And what about Cadance?”

“She’s doing fairly well, but still exhausted.” Shining sighed. “Great…and I could have helped out if my horn wasn’t…you know.”

He pointed his hoof at the tip of his horn while I gave him a soft smile and said “Don’t feel bad Shining. What’s important is that you’re still here and safe and sound.”

“Yeah, I guess.” Shining sighed before smiling at me. “But maybe enough sad stories, how about we talk?”

“I think that’s perfect.” I nodded with a smile before we began to walk around the halls. “You know, I was meaning to talk to you about something.”

“I take it it’s the offer that we’ve talked about last month?” Shining guessed with a smile. “So…have you been thinking about it?”

“Well…about that…” I looked down with a somewhat darkened look on my face. “I…just worried if I was abandoning my friends.”

“Hm? What do you mean?” Shining asked.

“It’s just that…if I do, then I’ll have no choice but to leave the others and go to the Royal Guard Academy for six whole months.” I explained. “But if I refuse, then I’ll likely disappoint everyone…I just…feel so lost…”

“I see…feeling indecisive, eh?” Shining gave me an awkward grin. “Yeah…I had a feeling that you would say something like that.”

“Huh? Really?” I asked, looking at him with a surprised look. Shining let out a heavy sigh before stopping and looking at me with a gentle, friendly smile as he placed a hoof on my shoulder.

“I understand that feeling. Back when I wanted to join the Royal Guard, I felt nervous about leaving my sister behind. But…she encouraged me to go and says that she’ll accept whatever decision I choose. Besides, even if you do go, your sister will support you on, along with your other friends. I know they’ll do that and you aren’t technically gonna go away for good?”

“When you put it like that, but you make a very good point.” Mason sighed as his pet squirrels popped out of his scarf and nuzzled him in concern. Mason softly smiled at them before scratching them each by their ears. After he was done, he turned back to Shining Armor with a soft smile and said “Well…maybe just give me more time to think about that. Besides…I believe in them, and I guess you are right that they’ll accept in what decision I make. Thank you for your piece of advice, Shining Armor.”

“Don’t mention it!” Shining Armor grinned before punching his shoulder. “Now enough acting all mushy. As men, we need to be brave for our sisters and the ladies.”

“Mm…agreed.” I chuckled before he noticed a distinct shadow moving into Shining Armor’s shadow. I blinked in confusion and saw that Shining Armor’s shadow was acting all normal. Weird….didn’t I just saw…? Never mind…

“Something up?” Shining asked with a raised brow.

“N-nothing…now come on and let’s go check up with the others.” I suggested, which he nodded before we headed out. While we walked, I couldn’t but feel as though on what we just saw. That shadow…I could have sworn that my eyes wasn’t playing tricks on me.



Rantaro’s POV

Heheheheheheh….Eh? What’s this? Oh…it’s just you right there. Nothing much, just looking around the castle and maybe or maybe not taking some items because they could be valuable.  

“What do you think you’re doing?” Of frigging course someone had to come. I turned back and saw Li’l miss Psychologist giving me a stern look. “Well…? Why do you have all of those items?”

“It’s none of your business.” I answered. 

“Stealing is wrong.” I turned away from her with a light scoff and asked “So? It’s not like anyone can stop me nor even owns this castle, so it doesn’t matter anymore.”

“As always….you never cease to amaze my expectations. You really are greedy.” Nicole sighed. “So I just came and looked for you. The others began their information gathering around the Crystal Empire by asking some of the locals.”

“Really? I haven’t noticed.” I rolled my eyes. “Like I really care what they’re doing. All I care is just seeing what valuables I can find in a place like this.”

“…..” Nicole didn’t respond as she glanced away before replying “Well either way, I just came to check on you.”

“If it’s about our little friend, then I kept my word after you paid me.” I sighed. 

“Not that…did you noticed anything odd?” Mm? Anything odd? I turned to her and asked “What?”

“I see…well I noticed something dark roaming around the empire.” Huh…so something sinister is hiding from our sights. “And…I am unsure what it was, but it felt as though it was similar to King Sombra.”

“Really? How weird considering both Mason and Shining faced him off before those two headed back in here.” I pointed out before something hit me. “Huh…then again, maybe he done something to them without them realizing.”

“So I take it you’re suspicious about this, huh?” Nicole asked.

“So? that’s none of your business.” I scoffed. “Although…it doesn’t matter to me. What matters is just those guys can solve it themselves.”

“Then I won’t stop you then.” Nicole sighed. “You love do this kind of stuff to make things interesting in your own way, right?”

“Heh, you know me so well.” I smirked cockily before adding “Although, I guess I should keep my eye out on something like that. You know…for some amusement.”

“Do you keep like to not be helpful to make the others accept that as the truth?” Nicole questioned, earning me a confused look. “I mean, you were lying about not interested about the Crystal Empire but, you really do want to find out what secrets are here.”

“….So?” I asked. “I’ve been wasting my time staying around in this place. Do you know how much I make in a week? Or even a month?”

“Seeing you act up like this is somewhat relieving to me.” Nicole said bluntly.

“Whatever.” I shrugged with a cocky smirk before grabbing a crystal-like vase.

“You know stealing is wrong.” Nicole pointed out, causing me to let out an irritated sigh. 

“If that captain of the Royal Guard was gonna stop me, that wouldn’t bother me. He doesn’t even own this castle at all, so not my problem.” I shrugged nonchalantly. “But besides that, I’ll take my leave.”

With that, I began taking my leave while Nicole sighed and decided to follow me, irritating me a lot.

“Do you ever heard of the term ‘personal space’?” I asked.

“You know, you’re very distrusting and someone needs to keep an eye out for you.” Really? Me? Distrusting?

“Really? I’m distrusting? You’re suspicious yourself too.” I pointed out. “You’re keeping secrets about hiding a Changeling.”

“So?” Nicole asked, causing me to face-palm. Jeez, this woman…

“Whatever…you’re not my problem. Now excuse me, I’m gonna go and-Mm?” I looked over and the others entering through a door. With a raised brow, I began walking towards it till something else peeked my interest. 

“What’s this?” I asked upon seeing a portrait in front of me. It was a picture of a pony. She had brilliant amber eyes, the mane was a gradient of brilliant raspberry to moderate cobalt blue, and her coat had a slight hint of a very pale vermilion. Hmm…

“This looks like a painting of somepony, but she looks quite similar to one pony we know.” Nicole adjusted her glasses before going through her iPad. “You know who I’m talking about, right?”

“It’s that Princess Mi Amore whatever pony.” God, her name sounds a bit like Spanish. “So what? This is probably some relative of her.”

“But…why would her picture be hanged here?” Nicole wondered.

“Oh…” Hm? We turned back and saw a random pony whose mane looked aqua blue and very pale purple coat as they slowly walked up towards the portrait. “T-This…!”

“What? Do you know this pony?” I asked.

“This is…Princess…Amore…” The pony said before gasping in surprise. “I remember now…Ugh.”

“Hm?” Nicole stared at him with a slight concern look. “Are you alright sir?”

“Y-yeah…” He nodded. “Sorry…but I remember a bit, but this was Princess Amore, the previous ruler of the Crystal Empire.”

“Hm?” I raised a brow of confusion. The previous ruler? Actually…

“Hey, you.” I called, causing him to turn to me. “You know anything about her?”

“Y-yes…she was our ruler. She was so kind, and always protect us from monsters.” The Crystal Pony explained to us. “Then…one day…Ngh!”

His eyes widened in fear and started panting heavily.

“Eh? What’s up with you?” I asked with a raised brow.

“….S-Sorry…I-I….I need to go!” He rushed away while me and Nicole looked at each other in confusion.

“That was strange.” Nicole said bluntly. “But it’s understandable, he did had some PTSD.”

“Hm? PTSD?” I asked.

“Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.” Nicole answered. “A condition of persistent mental and emotional stress occurring as a result of injury or severe psychological shock, typically involving disturbance of sleep and constant vivid recall of the experience, with dulled responses to others and to the outside world.”

“I know what that is, I meant that he has it?” I remarked with an annoyed look. “Are you talking about that he has some sort of fear because of that whole enslavement with King Sombra?”

“Seems so. It makes no surprise because that pony seemed to hurt these innocent ponies for his selfish desires.” Nicole gazed at the painting of Princess Amore. “But this does raise a question, what happened to her?”

“Probably long dead all I care.” I rolled my eyes before gazing at it. “Hmm…well…”

“What are you doing?” Nicole asked sternly.

“So? I’m taking this with me.” I grinned cockily, but the moment I made contact with it…I felt the world swirling around as I let out a wincing sound and gotten my hand away from it. “Ngh!”

“What? What happened?” Nicole asked in concern. 

“W-what was that?” I asked, waving my hand off before looking over at the picture. “This painting…or…was it…?”

Huh? Why am I hearing? I hear some chattering…but I can’t make out with it.

Suddenly, I noticed Gizmo popping right out of my head and nuzzling me out of concern. I let out a sigh and replied “I’m fine…just some wild headache.”

Nicole looked at me for a while before gazing back at the picture.

“…Actually, there’s something off with this painting.” Nicole stated. “I think it’s best if we took it.”

“Oh…interested in earning money?” I asked dryly. 

“Not funny.” Nicole replied, her brows furrowing into a glare.

“Whatever.” I rolled my eyes before turning to the portrait. With a sigh, I walked over and managed to get the portrait down while dropping many of the crystal-like objects I gotten around the place on the ground. “Meh…I’ll come back for them later.”

However, the moment I touched the portrait, the wall surrounding it started moving back before it revealed…

“What the? A secret passage?” That caught me a little off-guard while Gizmo became shocked as he nearly fell off from my shoulder. 

“Interesting…” Nicole muttered before she slowly walked in and looks around it. “Hmm…looks very suspicious.”

“No duh.” I shrugged before covering my mouth and went into deep thought. So a secret passageway, eh? Did that Sombra guy or whatever they called him made this? Hmm…when there’s a secret passageway, there’s something hidden in it. Obviously not treasure because only a moron would fall for that. But then again…there’s gotta be something down here.

“You’re gonna go down there, aren’t you?” My thoughts went off the moment Nicole spoke as she gave me a curious glance. “If so…then let me come too. There could be traps or anything down there.”

“Whatever, just don’t get in my way.” I scoffed.

“I won’t even stop you from stealing those stuff around the castle.” Now she’s talking my language. Oh well, let’s head out. 

“Good answer.” I chuckled with a smug look on my face before the two of us headed downstairs through the secret passageway as we continued to walk down. 

We kept walking straight forward as it was notably getting more darker along the way.

“Ugh, it’s too damn dark.” I complained till we saw a flash of light appear right in front of us before we saw Gizmo flashing a light while he sat on my head. I gave him a grin before saying “Heh…thanks old pal.”

Gizmo cooed in thanks as we continued to walk through the tunnel.

“You seem very close with him, aren’t ya?” Nicole asked curiously.

“So?” I asked.

“Does this relate on your past?” I rolled my eyes as I realized that she would keep bothering me if I don’t answer her. 

“….Yeah. Found him as a baby with no one to take care of him, not even his parents.” I explained. “He was my only friend that I could trust. Taught him any trick I could think of, just like how my old man taught me.”

Old man….Heh, just thinking about me really bugs me.

“Are you referring to your father? Was he like you?” Nicole asked curiously.

“Yeah…He was a broker, and he would make really great deals with anyone. We used to live around with my mother, but she moved away because we were broke and couldn’t pay the bills back then.” I sighed, tilting my hat a bit. “Course, that’s when he started doing the black market and managed to get a lot of money. I was with him till he…”

“He left you that one day, right?” I glanced at Nicole, who was staring at me, a bit sorrowfully. “I am sorry if I am making you emotional.”

“Me? Emotional? Yeah right.” I rolled my eyes. “I don’t really care about him. He left me when I was young for reasons unknown and so I was able to take care of myself off the streets, and soon later…well you know the rest.”

“Yes….but don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll see him.” Nicole assured, much to my confusion. “And if you do, then how about I give you a therapy session?”

“Good luck with that. He’s quite tricky and loves to lie to others just like me.” I shrugged. “…Look at me, wasting my time and energy with you. Great…”

Nicole stared at me, letting out a sigh till she noticed something that caught his eye. I looked at her direction and saw a door right in front of us. With narrow eyes, I walked slowly towards the door with Gizmo shining the flashlight right in front of my way and Nicole behind me as we walked through it, finding an old dusty room filled with many dark looking crystals and some furniture. Judging by how the place looks, it almost looked like a lab.

“What is this place?” Nicole wondered aloud.

“Beats me.” I shrugged nonchalantly while we walked around to investigate the place. “Jeez, whoever owned this place really knew what they were doing. Jeez, some crystal-loving freak.”

“Hmm…these crystals…” Nicole wondered. “….Strange…”

“You can say that again.” I rolled my eyes before hearing Gizmo calling us over by the desk and showed something that he had in his hands. “Ooh, hello, what’s this?”

“It’s a book, a journal to be precise.” Nicole hummed in thought before grabbing the book as she began to read it over. “This…looks someone’s diary, but it’s pretty old.”

“Huh…” I walked over to her as the two of us began to read it over together.



Day 1X, Year XXXX

I…don’t know where to start with this. I don’t know where to begin with this story, but I guess I can begin that I grew up through my entire life without my parents ever since I was a foal. I lived by the Chestnut Falls’ Crystal Heart Foal Center. It was then I came across a young black unicorn pony. It was pretty strange since he was a unicorn just like me. Apparently, most ponies here in the Crystal Empire are all Earth Ponies, and the kids always picked on him because of their mutual ostracism or whatever ponies called it. 

That day, we became good friends and soon after, I find him pretty strange. When he first came to the orphanage, he would always keep saying the one word ‘Sombra’ for some reason. I never knew why, but I helped him learn about other words. But even so, the adults who works at the orphanage gave him the name ‘Sombra’.



“Huh? Sombra?” I asked. “Does she mean…?”

“King Sombra.” Nicole answered. “So…he was an orphan and whoever wrote this was apparently a childhood friend with him.”

“Heh…so he used to live here as an orphan, eh?” I wondered, rubbing my chin. “Then I guess about the reason why he took over seemed to be ostracism. I guess even in this weird world, stuff that we have back on our own can’t seem to escape even here.”

“I suppose that would be considered a motive for his reasons to take over the Crystal Empire, but let’s not jump to conclusions.” Nicole shook her head before she began reading it over.



Day 2X, Year XXXX

Sombra is quite a nice pony, but I feel as though something is wrong with him and it connects with the Crystal Faire. Every year whenever we go there and see the Crystal Heart, we visit the heart and we see our visions of what we would see in the future. My future is seeing myself as a beautiful princess. I was so in awed and was so excited to hear that. I don’t know how, but I’ll keep believing in myself to do this.

But…something was wrong with Sombra. Every time we go to the Crystal Heart and whenever he sees his future, he always fallen ill. So, I always stay by his bedside whenever he fallen ill. That’s when it happened….when he gotten really sick, he started to somehow break apart! I was so scared and I thought that he was gonna die! That’s when I managed to use my magic to heal him completely, and that’s when I earn my Cutie-Mark. It was so amazing! It was the best day ever! Though…I was still worried about him. I wanted to learn about where Sombra came from and…why he was so different to everypony compared to me. 

Then one day, I was visited by the princesses of Equestria! They invited me over to their school because of my special talent of healing. I was so happy and Sombra encouraged me to go. I was really sadden that we had to part ways, but we promise that we’ll see each other again someday…but before I could head to Canterlot…the day where all of our hopes and the light that shined into the kingdom…fallen into the deepest depths of the darkness and our hopes were turned into despair.



“Hmm…this diary is obviously mentioning Sombra’s take over.” I muttered. “So I take it that this pony knew what their friend was doing.”

“It would seem so, but I guess the pony who wrote felt heartbroken when they learned that the friend they made for the rest of their life became evil.” Nicole stated before she continued to read what’s left of it.



Day 3X, Year XXXX

I….I don’t want to believe it. I never will believe it! Sombra…he’s so different! The friend I grew so close too…turned Princess Amore into stone and destroyed it! He even hid away the Crystal Heart for his own dark desires! I…I was forced to watch all of this…his descent to darkness, and everything. I asked him why…why would he do this? And you know what his reply was like? ‘Because it was destiny’….or so he says it…he completely abandoned everything like he forgotten who he was. I…I thought we had something, and even the Crystal Ponies are forced to do what he tells them to do, losing their high spirits. 

I guess you may say this is an act of revenge against those who hurt him, and even me. I…I don’t want to believe this. I want to help him…and I will…and to do that, I’m gonna find a way to save him and bring back the Sombra I knew…



“Hm?” Nicole looked through the pages before finding a small photo in it, but it just revealed a small black pony while the rest of it was covered in some black smudge.

“So that must be Sombra when he was young.” I took out the photo and looked at it. “Huh…”

“He looked so young and innocent. What changed a pony like him into the dark side?” Nicole thought aloud.

“Beats me.” I shrugged till I heard another cry from Gizmo. We looked back and saw him playing around with a glass like crystal. “Hello, what you got there?”

“It looks like…a prism crystal.” Nicole walked over and scratched Gizmo by the ear before he happily cooed in delight. He handed her the crystal as she looked at it. “Hmm…I’ve seen prism crystals before online, but never in real life.”

“I have.” I stated. “I had some business with some guy once and I sold him a dozen packages filled with prism crystals.”

“Any particular reason why?” Nicole asked.

“Sorry, don’t wanna spoil my business partner.” I grinned arrogantly, causing her to sigh before examining it. I rolled my eyes and examined the photo…Hmm, this black smudge…it’s kinda similar to that smudged up letter…wonder what’s up with that?

As I was in thought, I saw a bright light going through the crystal Nicole was holding as it send out a beam of light straight towards the photo I held as it slowly begins to melt off the black smudge.

“Huh?!” I asked, blinking in surprise. Well that was quite something I never expected that to happen. 

“What was that…?” Nicole asked, also surprised by that. We looked back and saw Gizmo holding the flashlight in his hands before hiding it behind his back. I shook my head and face-palmed a bit. Oh you…

….Huh? What the heck? I gazed at the photo in my hands and saw something that caught my eye. Apparently, it didn’t just have Sombra in the photo, but a young pony alongside him. She looked like one of those Crystal Ponies, but…something about her felt different compared to one of those traumatizing losers.

Hmm…

“Did you find something peculiar about it?” Nicole asked, walking over to me and looked at the photo. “Huh…so it seemed that the black smudge was wiped off, huh? Did you do that?”

“No, that weird light from that crystal you were looking gotten rid of it.” I explained. Nicole looked at me and saw that I wasn’t lying before looking at the prism crystal. 

“Huh…” Nicole muttered. “Interesting…”

“But to the more important matter, who the hell is this?” I wondered.

“I don’t know…but maybe one of those ponies know.” Nicole guessed.

“Yeah, probably if they managed to talk. I can bet that the others are probably having a wonderful time gathering information.” I shrugged with a dry look on my face. “But yeah…let’s head out and go check up on those losers.”

Nicole slightly nodded before we heard a minor sound off the distance, which made the both of us tensed up.

“W-what? Who’s there?” I called, but no one replied back. “Huh…”

Well, looks like we aren’t the only ones around here. But…we can’t let this book nor that photo fall to the wrong hands…we need to give this to the others and let them do all the hard work. They seemed to know what to do…

“Alright, let’s head out and give it to them. Twilight might know something.” I turned to Nicole with a raised brow before asking “So…I take it that you know what I thought?”

“Your expression says it all.” Nicole stated before she began to walk away. “Now come on, let’s go.”

“Mm…” I shrugged before allowing Gizmo to rest inside of my fedora before giving him the book and photo as we began taking our leave. However, as I was beginning to leave the creepy room and into the hallway, I began thinking about that pony.

Hmm…it can’t be a coincidence that photo of that pony along with Sombra was in that book. Besides, do you really think that a tyrant like what the others say about him could write this? No…it had to be-

“AH!” What the?! I looked upwards and saw Nicole falling onto the ground and wasn’t moving an inch.

“Nicole!” I called, running towards till something behind hit me from the back, causing my whole to slowly feel like it can’t feel anything. I slowly fell on my back and leaned against the wall, dropping my hat in the process, along with Gizmo and the stuff we gotten.

Gizmo got back up and looked at me and Nicole with a worried look.

“D-Don’t worry about me…just go…” I told him, barely saying anything else as Gizmo didn’t hesitate and grabbed the stuff we obtained from the room and immediately tailed out of the hallway and presumably out of the hall. 

I glanced towards Nicole and saw her twitching, meaning that she was acting up like me…but who…?

Suddenly, I saw a shadow over-looming me as I glanced up and saw a red cloaked pony looking down at me. Huh? Wait a minute…the face…

“Y-you….you’re…” I grunted before my vision slowly began to turn into a blur…

God…damn…it….



Jamie’s POV

Wow, everything is working out perfectly. Oh, sorry if we missed out on a lot. You see, our information gathering didn’t go well as we expected. All of the Crystal Ponies looked so terrified and whenever we asked them about if they knew anything about the Crystal Empire, but they don’t seemed to remember. So we decided to take a break till Applejack told us about a library inside of the castle, so we decided to go there and search for anything related to the history of the Crystal Empire.

But the moment we entered the library, I couldn’t help but let out an excited gasp, and Twilight couldn’t even hold back her amazement upon seeing the Crystal Empire’s library.

“I just…I don’t even know to…There are no words.” Twilight muttered.

“I’ll give one word: Extraordinary.” I replied with a grin.

“This place looks so big!” Carrie exclaimed.

“Yeah, just look at all of these books.” Kaede stared at the books in awe. “I wouldn’t be surprise if Twilight and Jamie read every single book of this place in a week.”

“W-well…” I blushed a bit and looked away in embarrassment, along with Twilight.

“Ahem.” Huh? We all looked to our lefts and saw an older looking Crystal Pony wearing small reading glasses by the counter staring at us with a small smile on her face. “May I help you?”

“Yes.” Twilight smiled. “We’re looking for a book.”

“We have plenty of those.” She answered, much to our joy.

“You do. You really do!” Twilight exclaimed in awe.

“Yeah! A million of them!” I added.

“Hey, we’re looking for a book, not a bunch of them for you nerds to read over.” Jack scoffed, causing the two of us to glare at him. “What? I’m just saying.” 

Applejack stepped forward and ignored Jack as she told the library the reason why we came here.

“We’re looking for a history book. Something that might tell us how the Empire might’ve protected itself from danger back in the day.”

“Yes. Of course. History, history…” She rubbed her chin in thought before letting out a small gasp. “Ah, yes.”

We all squeal in joy and sighed in relief till we realized that she didn’t even say anything else.

“Which is where, exactly?” Twilight spoken up, still having a hopeful smile on her face.

However, the librarian’s face turned into a frown and replied “I…I can’t seem to remember. I’m not sure I actually work here.”

We all frowned and/or groaned loudly. Rainbow Dash face-palmed while Jack growled irritably.

“Great…thanks.” Jack scoffed. “That means we need to look through every single of these damn books.”


“Come on, you guys. I’m sure we’ll find it in no time.” Kaede assured with a nervous grin. 

“Kaede’s right.” Twilight nodded in agreement. “We’ll just take a look around. I’m sure we can find it on our own.”

With that, we began our search and split up in pairs. That book has to be around here. We can’t just give up so easily. We need to do our best in order to find it! For Cadance’s sake! For the Crystal Empire! We won’t give up!

“Let me know if you find anything!” The librarian called, waving her hoof at us.

“I like her!” Pinkie grinned.

“Yeah, I don’t.” Jack huffed. “Now hurry your butts to find the damn book.”

“Yeah, yeah. Cool your jets, fatty.” Rainbow waved it off, which made Jack scoffed before we all began our search.

We searched from every suspicious nook and cranny from every single part of the library, but no matter where we look, we seemed to not find what we came looking for.

“Uh, anyone else starting to think this is a lost cause?” Applejack called over from the other side of the library.

“No, no, no, no, no…” Twilight looked through every book, not finding a single book that relates to the history of the Crystal Empire. While she kept searching, I noticed one book on top of the shelf, but I couldn’t seem to reach it and there wasn’t a ladder around.

Uh…how can I get it? I mean, it could be the book but, I won’t know till I see it. It’s very common for characters not to look at the out-of-places areas when looking for something. But how can I reach for it? It’s not like I can magically make it come to me….

Oh….Oh….right. Well, I haven’t practiced much due to all of that late night reading, but it’s worth a shot.

I slowly extended my hand as I noticed my cheeks glowing a bit and the book was wrapped in a light blue aura as it started shaking a bit before slowly making its way out of the shelf before slowly making its way towards me. I smiled softly as it was working well onto getting it, but not till Rainbow Dash came flying and accidentally bumped into the book, causing her to let out a scream before flying straight through the wall and slowly fell off the wall with the book on her face.

I winced in pale with a sweat-drop before yelling out “S-Sorry!”

“O-Ow…what the hay was that?” Rainbow Dash wondered, getting the book off her face before rubbing her head in pain.

“Jeez, what happened to ya? Did something caught your eye and crashed straight in the wall?” Jack grinned teasingly, causing her to glare at him as she flew straight to his face and exclaimed “Hey! It’s not my fault that something got in my way!”

“Really? Doesn’t sound like to me.” Jack rolled his eyes.

“Shut it fatty!”

“Whatever you say, Skittles.” 

The two glared at each other while the others shook their heads. I’m very worried for these two, and I want to tell them but maybe’s not the time.

“Wait a minute…” Twilight walked over to the book that fell off of Rainbow Dash before picking it up with her magic as she read over it before letting out a gasp. “Yes! The History of the Crystal Empire! I just hope it has the answers we need!”

“That’s great!” Kaede grinned happily. 

“Guys?” Huh? We looked back and saw Ren, Mason, Fluttershy, and Kodiak walking in. 

“I thought we find ya here.” Ren grinned softly before asking “What’s the rush?”

“You’re not gonna believe it! We find the book that might help us learn about defending the kingdom!” Kaede explained.

“That’s great!” Fluttershy grinned happily. 

“That’s wonderful news.” Mason smiled softly. “I’m glad to hear that you guys did it.”

“Yep! I guess we were lucky to find it.” Carrie chuckled while I blushed a bit and remained silent. If only they knew…well, I think only Ren, Fluttershy, Twilight and Kodi knows about it.

“Here we go!” Twilight shouted, placing the book on the table as the rest of us rushed over and began hearing her out. “A ‘Crystal Faire’. According to this book, it was established by their first queen and became their most important tradition. The Faire was held every year to ‘renew the spirit of love and unity in the empire so they could protect it from harm’. My friends and I could put it together. Everything we need to know is in the book!”

“That sounds pretty promising.” Ren said.

“And it’s perfect. I’ll go inform both Shining Armor and Princess Cadance about it.” Mason smiled before running out of the library.

“We’ll get started right away!” Twilight grinned excitedly before turning to me and Spike. “C’mon, Spike, Jame, we’ve got a Crystal Faire to put together!”

Spike let out a heavy sigh while I smiled softly and nodded.

“You got it.” I nodded.

“Mind if we pitch in to help?” Ren offered. “I mean, I know you guys can’t do this alone.”

“Do you even need to ask Ren? Of course we can! We can all do this as a team!” Twilight smiled while the others grinned determinedly and held excited looks as we all begin to plan out the Crystal Faire. 

As soon as we came outside and began working on the preparations for the Crystal Faire and with Mason coming back and helping us after he told Shining and Princess Cadance of the new about the Crystal Faire, we began hearing some music playing in the background and if I had to guess, that would mean it was time for another song to sing. Oh well, let’s do this.



(Twilight Sparkle):
Princess Cadance needs our help
Her magic will not last forever
I think we can do it
But we need to work together

(Jamie):
We have to get this right
Yes, we have to make them see
We can save the Crystal Ponies with their history

(Rainbow Dash and Jack): 
It says that they liked jousting

(Rarity, Mason, and Carrie):
They flew a flag of many hues

(Applejack and Jack):
Made sweets of crystal berries

(Fluttershy, Ren, and Kodi):
They had a petting zoo with tiny ewes

(All):
Oh, we have to get this right
Yes, we have to make them see
We can save the Crystal Ponies with their history

(Pinkie Pie):
There was a crystal flugelhorn
That every pony liked to play

(Mason):
Pinkie Pie!

(Pinkie Pie):
What?

(Twilight Sparkle)
And the Crystal Kingdom anthem
Can you learn it in a day?

(All):
Oh, we have to get this right
Yes, we have to make them see
We can save the Crystal Ponies with their history


Phew…okay. After all that singing, we finally completed the preparations for the Crystal Faire. You know, it looked like a normal carnival fair, but I only read them from books or seen images of them.

“Look at it! We did it!” Carrie giggled.

“This place looks epic!” Kodi barked happily.

“Whoa, that’s awesome! It’s just like the county fair!” Ren grinned.

“That or a Culture Festival!” Kaede insisted. 

“Mm! Hell yeah it is!” Jack laughed, rubbing his gut. “And I can already smell the food that AJ and Pinkie prepared!”

“Of course you would think of food…” Mason sighed.

“Shut it you bastard!” Jack yelled out.

“Guys, calm down…” Ren intervened with a soft smile.

“Ren’s right…there’s no need to fight over each other.” Fluttershy reminded.

“…Fine.” Mason and Jack huffed while some of the Crystal Ponies came over and looked at the place in awe and curiosity.

“It looks amazing! I don’t know how I could’ve done this without you all!” Twilight exclaimed happily, looking through the book we obtained from the Crystal Empire’s Castle Library.

“Yeah, and hopefully this will raise the rest of the Crystal Ponies’ spirits. After all, we need to bring their spirits back up.” I pointed out, looking through my notebook to check up on my notes. “Now all they need to do is to make sure that everything’s in place, and the the festivities can begin.”

“What’s this thing for?” Applejack asked, looking at the mysterious heart-shaped object on top of the pedestal.

“Oh yes, I think it was from the book, right Twilight?” I asked curiously. “I think it was called…the Crystal Heart, right?”

“That’s right Jamie.” Twilight nodded. “The last page of the book mentioned a Crystal Heart as the faire's centerpiece, so I used my magic to cut one out of a crystal block.”

“Whoa, that’s so cool.” Ren commented. “I mean, it’s just like the Chaos Emeralds from Sonic.”

“I don’t have no clue what that is, but I’m glad you guys like it.” Twilight smiled.

“Nice work, Twi. Think we're ready to get this faire up and running.” Applejack smirked.

“And don’t worry, we’ll be able to make the others come and enjoy it!” Ren assured with a confident grin till we heard someone blowing through a flugelhorn, which was apparently a familiar pink pony friend of ours.

“FLUGELHORN!” Pinkie yells out.

“And that’s our cue…” Ren sweat-dropped. “We better stop her.”

“Good idea.” Applejack nodded in agreement before she and the others walked over and tried to get the flugelhorn away from her.

“Well…this is it…” Twilight let out a heavy sigh before looking at me. “Do you think I did the right thing?”

“Well…I think so.” I nodded before gulping a bit upon seeing the crowd of Crystal Ponies looking at us. “B-but…I-I’m right here with you, s-so…no worries.”

“That nervousness is making me nervous, you know.” I turned pale and sweat-dropped upon hearing that blunt comment. W-well…when you put it like that…you make a good point.

“W-well…I’ll still be by your side.” I assured with a small yet nervous grin.

“Well then, let’s begin.” Twilight cleared her throat before turning to the group of Crystal Ponies. “Hear ye, hear-”

“FLUGELHORN!” Jeez, she’s really loud, isn’t she? We all looked back and saw Mason swiping away the flugelhorn away from her before giving it to Jack, who broke it with his bare hands. I couldn’t help but gulped and sweat nervously upon seeing that. Ooh…this is another reason why I shouldn’t get him upset by me…

“Ahem.” Twilight cleared her throat before smiling at the crowd. “Hear ye, hear ye! Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor do cordially invite you to attend the Crystal Faire!”

“Hell yeah!” Jack yelled, scaring some of the Crystal Ponies. “Now come down here and enjoy the rides!”

“Come on in, you all! Got food and drinks that away, games and crafts, Crystal Heart to the back near the Princess.” Applejack added, standing near a booth alongside Jack.

The moment she mentioned about the Crystal Heart, the others all widened their eyes and looked over at the Crystal Heart Twilight made with awed looks.

“Did she say…Crystal Heart…?” One of them asked as the others as they all looked at each other in awe, and in just five seconds, they were surrounded in a strange aura and in just three seconds, they changed into crystal-like versions.

“Whoa…” I muttered, quickly grabbing my notebook and writing down some new facts. “I see now, whenever they’re feeling positive emotions, their whole body are quickly crystallized. But…not literally crystal…”

“This is amazing.” Twilight grinned excitedly before turning to me. “You gotta put a lot of info into your notebook.”

“I’m way ahead of you, Twilight.” I nodded as I continued to copy down the notes. You know, this is quite great news. I could possibly publish a new book to add new info about the Crystal Empire like an autobiography. Heh heh, this is just great! I can’t wait for the others to read about it! I even have so many new ideas for my new books…Huh?

Was that just me…did I just saw a shadow moving? Huh…well I haven’t been sleeping well that much, so I guess my eyes are just playing tricks…right?

“Jamie! Focus!” I stiffened upon hearing Twilight calling me before I continued to write down more faster as I exclaimed “Y-Yes ma’am!”

Oh man…this is so embarrassing…



Ren’s POV

Okay, so far the Crystal Faire is going so awesome! In fact, why bother running some booths when you can enjoy it and get the others to enjoy it alongside with us.

Me, Mason, Kodi, Fluttershy and Carrie were shooting down cans down from the shooting booth. I aimed my Hacking Gun and shot two ‘Break’ bullets at the cans, shooting down from the count.

“Ooh!” Carrie said in awe.

“Amazing.” Fluttershy said in awe.

“Nice shooting Ren!” Kodi grinned as I put the Hacking Gun behind my back and said “Well…it’s nothing. I just got lucky, that’s all.”

“But even so, your shooting range is getting better.” Mason pointed out before taking out the toy gun that’s used in the booth. “Though I am not good with guns, just swords and Katanas.”

“Really? But all I see you use is that bamboo pole.” I pointed out.

“True since I do not like putting violence to any of my foes…” Mason stated. 

Oh…well that’s nice to know about.

Mason shot down a couple of cans while some of the Crystal Ponies were amazed before rushing over to the booth while the gloomy ones fully became crystallized. 

“This is so amazing!”

“Can I try?”

I chuckled while taking out my Gun and used ‘Move’ to levitate a nearby toy gun and handed it to a small filly.

“Ooh! Thanks mister!” The filly thanked me, which made me softly smiled and patted him on the head.

“Anytime.” I nodded before noticing Pinkie in a jester outfit and playing with…another flugelhorn?! What in the world?! How…Wait, this is Pinkie Pie. So…yeah, it’s obvious. She probably got it out of her ‘hyperspace’.

Some of the Crystal Ponies were playing over by the booths and some of them were eating some of the Apple Family’s traditional foods and the Crystal Empire’s cuisines.

Meanwhile, the others were having fun on their way. Rarity were asking some of the Crystal Ponies for fashion tips and how could they be so ‘crystallized’ or whatever. Though, I am quite curious about why would they be so…crystal-like.

Applejack was operating the food booth and presented some delicious snacks for them with Kaede helping out by giving out some kids with the food while giving out small designs for others to have that she said that she made for her spare free time.

As for Jack and Rainbow Dash…well….

Let’s just say that they’re having a food-eating contest, with Jack obviously winning while Rainbow tried to and wasn’t giving out, no matter how stuffed she is. Just shows how those two are so stubborn.

“Give up yet Skittles?” Jack asked in a teasing manner, his mouth filled with many apple pies in his mouth. 

“S-Shut…up…fatty…” Rainbow groaned before covering her mouth as her cheeks puffed out before swallowing it back up. “Ooh…I am not going to be having a good night’s rest.”

“Ha ha ha ha ha!” Jack laughed while some of the Crystal Ponies cheered for him.

“That guy is so amazing!” 

“How does he do it?”

“Whatever he is, he managed to beat that Pegasus with ease!” 

Looks like the crowd is liking Jack, heh. He sure knows how to gain other’s respect other than his rude attitude. 

“It looks like everyone is enjoying themselves.” Fluttershy softly smiled before sighing sadly. “If only Rantaro or Nicole would enjoy this.”

“Yeah, I wanted them to come but I doubt the others would enjoy either of their company.” Well…maybe Nicole, but Rantaro is so difficult. I want to believe in him, but he’s so mysterious and antisocial that he always wants to be left alone. Just…what’s his problem? Including what he said about a while ago?

I mean…I know the others can’t handle what he says, but I can tell that how he wants to be friends. Even if he doesn’t want to admit…I just wished that we can try to hang out together and maybe make a social link like we do in the Persona series.

Hmm…

“Ren? Are you feeling alright?” I turned to Fluttershy and Kodiak, who looked at me in concern.

“Oh…sorry. I was just wondering about how we can get Rantaro and Nikki here to come and have fun with us.” I explained. “I haven’t seen those guys for a while.”

“Me too…I just hope they’re alright.” Fluttershy wondered.

“Maybe they’re here in the Crystal Faire?” Kodi suggested.

“Hmm…I guess.” I shrugged.

“Yo!” Hm? We looked over and saw Jack and Rainbow Dash walking over with Rainbow groaning from all that food she ate. “Heh, so did you guys witness our food eating contest? Guess who won?”

“I think it’s kinda obvious that you won it, dude.” I chuckled. Jack grinned before patting me on the shoulder, but it felt so hard that it made my shoulder ache in pain.

“Ha ha ha! Good eye kid! Guess Skittles didn’t even think twice about fighting me!” Jack laughed while Rainbow Dash glared at him.

“Obviously why.” Rainbow grumbled. 

“Rainbow Dash, are you going to be alright?” Fluttershy asked in concern.

“W-well…I-I’ll be fine. Nothing that I can’t handle.” Rainbow laughed nervously.

“But you know, I can’t believe this actually worked!” Jack laughed. “Guess we totally nailed it, right?”

“Yeah, they’re really feeling a lot of love and unity about now.” I added. 

“It’s nice. I feel awfully bad for them to get enslaved by King Sombra…” Fluttershy sighed. “Why would somepony would do this?”

“Well…I don’t know, but was he always evil?” I blurted that out, which made the others looked at me like I was crazy. “I mean, do you really believe that evil is always born from the day they came from when they existed? I mean, I know this King Sombra guy is scary, but…was he always evil? It doesn’t make any sense…”

“Hey, don’t get any crappy idea! The guy’s a villain, so?” Jack scoffed.

“I know, but…do you really truly think that he was bad?” I retorted. “I mean, remember Chrysalis? She did all those things because her species were being threatened and ridicule by other ponies. I don’t want to believe that some villains that we encountered are evil. I mean, when I first came here and confronted Nightmare Moon, I realize that she was created by Lulu after she escaped from the moon. She was a manifestation of the jealousy and envy from her sister, Celeste. I mean…pure evil characters aren’t that sympathetic and kinda boring in the category. I mean, nearly anyone can agree.”

I mean really? Nobody loves pure evil characters. I mean, I have to agree because we try to make them feel sympathetic, but they’re too crazy to handle. That kind of ordeal…

“I guess you make a point there, Ren…” Fluttershy nodded in agreement.

“To be honest, the bad guys we came across are all insane and don’t seem to care what they do.” Kodi pointed out.

“Obviously cause they’re the bad guys!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“But still, I know they do bad things but I want to help them because I believe they have their reasons onto why they do this stuff.” I retorted with a soft smile. “I believe that.”

“Say what you want, but that obviously won’t change anything.” Jack snorted while I rolled my eyes. Of course, you won’t say that…

“Speaking of which…what’s up with some of these Crystal Ponies?” Rainbow Dash wondered, noticing some ponies were holding their heads in pain.

“Maybe they have headaches?” Kodi asked curiously.

“Well I did see some of them drinking slushies, so maybe a brain freeze?” I suggested with a light shrug.

“Seeing all of this, I feel like I’m starting to remember.” Huh? Oh hey, it’s that librarian mare from…well, obviously the library. “Remember things from before the king.”

“Me too.” Another pony nodded in agreement before the two let out a shocking gasp as they both exclaimed “The Crystal Heart!”

“Yeah, what about it? We got it.” Jack stated, crossing his arms with a smug look. “Of course you can thank all of us for getting it.”

“Really? Do you guys really have it?” I nodded at one of their questions as I answered “Of course we have it. I mean, it’s very important to you guys, right?”

“Of course it is. It’s the very item that our previous ruler used to protect our kingdom from blizzards and enemy attacks.” The librarian explained.

“Previous ruler? You’re talking about Sombra?” Fluttershy asked, but the librarian shook her head and replied “No, I meant Princess Amore.”

“Princess who?” Rainbow asked.

“She was our previous ruler of the Crystal Empire till he turned her into stone and destroyed her into pieces, taking siege of the kingdom where we…you know.” So…King Sombra killed one of the original rulers of this place?! That’s…insane. I can’t believe he did that…but why take over this place? I don’t wanna believe that he did this for power. Because that’ll be too stupid, right? There’s gotta be another reason how…

“Damn…that’s messed up.” Jack sighed.

“I’m sorry about that.” Kodi apologized. “You must’ve really loved your ruler so much, huh?”

“Yeah, she loved us all and even protected the Crystal Heart for many generations.” The librarian adjusted her reading glasses with a soft smile. “Though I’m glad you all strange fellows managed to find the Crystal Heart.”

“Of course we do! Can’t have have a Crystal Faire without the…” Rainbow stopped herself before hearing her what she said. “Wait…what did you just say? Did you say ‘find’ it?”

“Well yes. You see, the whole purpose of the Crystal Faire is to life the spirits of the Crystal Ponies, so the light within them can power the Crystal Heart, so that the Empire can be protected!” The librarian let out a gasp to catch her breath before adding “I do work at the library!”

“W-what’s this about ‘powering the heart’?” I asked in confusion.

“I just can't believe you found it. King Sombra said he'd hidden it away where we would never see it again! I only hope it will still be as powerful after all these years...!” Uhh…what?! I’m sorry what?! Hidden away? B-but then…that means… 

“Mm, funnel cake!” As the librarian and the other Crystal Pony walked off, we all jaw-dropped and turned pale upon learning this new information.

“W-what?” Fluttershy squeaked in horror.

“No frigging way…does she mean…?” Jack slowly turned to me while I stood there in shock and pale.

“It’s…real…? Oh no….!” I exclaimed. “We need to warn the others about this!”

Before we move out, Rainbow Dash flew past us and went off where Twilight and Jamie where as we immediately ran towards them and find the two of them checking out the book till Rainbow Dash immediately covered the ‘Crystal Heart’ as we presumed, with a blanket to hide it from view.

“Rainbow Dash! What are you doing?” Jamie asked in confusion. “Why did you-”

Rainbow covered his mouth with a shushing gesture as the rest of us raced over with panic looks on our faces.

“Twilight! Jamie…I think we may have a problem…” I said, furthering their confusion.

“What? Why? What’s wrong?” Twilight asked. 

“This whole thing is a hoax! We gotten the wrong deal! It’s real!” Jack yelled out, causing some of the Crystal Ponies to come over and look at us in confusion till Rainbow Dash flew over and punched him by the right cheek, causing him to grown. “What the hell was that for?!”

“Keep your mouth shut or else they might hear us!” Rainbow shushed him.

“What? What’s real?” Jamie asked.

“It’s…the Crystal Heart…it’s real.” Kodi explained.

“W-what?” Twilight widened her eyes. “B-but…are you saying that-”

“Yep…apparently, it wasn’t something to create. It was an item that protected the kingdom back then till King Sombra hid it away or so they say.” I explained, still shocked by learning this. “We need the real thing!”

“W-w-w-w-w-what?!” Jamie’s face turned pale upon learning this news, along with Twilight as she dropped the book in the process.

“Did you think they took the news well?” Fluttershy whispered to me, flying up to my ear.

“…That’s a no-no…” I whispered back, sweat-dropping in the process. This is so not good…and just when things were going so well. Our hopeful way to bring the joy to all of the Crystal Ponies was clouded with the despair that soaked us all…



Later

As soon as we told the others, we rounded ourselves up at the balcony of the Crystal Empire’s castle where everyone was assembled as Twilight and Jamie was looking through the book with extremely frantic looks on their faces.

“This can’t be! We didn’t even know about it! How can we be so stupid?!” Jamie cried out.

“I didn't know it was an actual relic! The book didn't mention anything about the Crystal Ponies powering the Heart!” Twilight exclaimed before letting out a small gasp.

“Twilight, what’s wrong?” Kaede asked in concern. Twilight and Jamie slowly turned around and showed us at the end of the book, showing us a small ripped on it.

“There was a page missing... How did we not notice?!” Twilight cried out.

“What?!” Mason gasped. 

“Great! Now look at you two did! We’re in deep crap because of ya!” Jack yelled out, causing Jamie to wince before rubbing his arm bashfully with a sadden look before saying “S-Sorry…”

“Don’t apologize Jamie, it’s not your fault.” Twilight sighed sadly. “It’s my fault…if I would have just noticed that missing ripped-up page, then I would noticed it.”

“It’s alright, Twilight…” Cadance assured before coughing weakly. 

“Wait, where’s Rantaro and Nicole?” Pinkie wondered.

“Yeah, they should have been here.” Kodi looks around in concern.

“I’m sure they’re somewhere around the Crystal Empire…hopefully.” Mason sighed. “This is terrible…how could everything gone to waste?”

“Big brother…” Carrie looked at her brother with a worried look till we heard groaning as we turned around and saw Cadance kept coughing before falling down till Shining managed to save her and saw her horn flickering, causing the shield to slowly crack.

“Twily…” Shining muttered in worried and concern. Soon, we all watched the shield cracked and destroyed into many pieces as we all stared upon seeing many black clouds and that beneath that black cloud revealed…

“Sombra…” I muttered, looking at the clouds.

“R-Ren…” Fluttershy held my arm with a scared look and tears forming down in her eyes. 

“I know…” I gulped as we watched Sombra’s face forming beneath the clouds before letting out a massive roar as he slowly makes his way towards us.

Rantaro…Nicole…where are you two? More importantly…what’s going to happen now?

To Be Continued
> Chapter 60 - The Crystal Empire Part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Previously on My Little Pony: Ren’s Adventures In Equestria

“You wanted to see me? To give me a test?

“The Crystal Empire has returned.”

“You want us to help protect an entire empire?”

“It must be you and you alone.”

“What? But that’s insane! What you say makes no sense!”

“How could we know about the Crystal Empire in the first place?”

“But what if I fail?”

“Let’s just say the Empire…isn’t the only thing that’s returned.”

“Go, go!”

“I AM KING SOMBRA, YOU BRAT! I WILL NOT BE RIDICULE BY SOMEONE LIKE YOU!”

“Sparkleriffic!”

“Amazing!”

“Do you see it too big brother?”

“Well, with Cadance putting all her strength into keeping her spell going, and me trying to keep an eye on signs of trouble in the arctic, we haven't been able to gather much information from the Crystal Ponies.”

“There are Crystal Ponies?”

“Oh really? Says the one who betrayed his own sister after falling straight for what that bug queen says?”

“Who do you think this journal belongs?”

“Don’t know…”

“Y-You…you’re….”

“’History of the Crystal Empire’. The last page of the book mentioned a Crystal Heart as the Faire’s centerpiece, so I used my magic to cut one out of a crystal block.”

“I know, but do you guys really think that he was born evil?”

“The whole purpose of the Crystal Faire is to life the spirits of the Crystal Ponies, so the light within them can power the Crystal Heart, so that the empire can be protected!”

“I think we may have a problem…”

“WHAT?!”

“I didn’t know it was an actual relic!”

“Don’t blame yourself, Twilight. It’s all my fault…”

“It’s alright, Twilight.”

“Twily…”

“R-Ren…”

“Yeah, I know…”




My Little Pony: Ren’s Adventures In Equestria


“This is bad!” Mason hissed.

“Dammit! Now what do we do?!” Jack exclaimed.

Honestly, I gotten no clue. I didn’t bother to listen what anyone says as we watched that dark cloud that King Sombra was in making his way towards us as black crystals began to manifest through the entrance of the empire.

“The Empire is under attack!” Shining exclaimed.

“W-what do we do?!” Jamie screeched.

“We need that princess to bring back that damn protection spell or whatever its’ called!” Jack demanded.

“No Jack, she had enough.” Mason stated sternly as he and Shining helped her up. “She used up all of her energy. I can’t imagine what could possibly happened if she keeps doing that.”

“So what can we do?!” Jack exclaimed.

“B-Big brother…” Carrie muttered, looking at her brother with a worried look.

“Don’t worry Carrie, we’ll think of something.” Mason assured.

“But…Shining can’t use his magic with those black crystals blocking his horn.” Kaede reminded us. “And Cadance is too tired out, and Twilight can’t do it because of her mission! I think we’re practically running out of good ideas!”

“When you put it like that, it really does feels like it’s the end, huh?” Kodi wondered.

“Dammit…goddamn frigging-” Jack clenched his fists as he stomped on the ground effortlessly. “Now great…what can we do?!”

“Calm down Jack. At times like this, we need to act calm and think rationally.” Mason said, his tone acting very calm. 

“How the hell can we be so calm in a time like this?!” Jack yelled out.

“Well we’re all getting antsy, okay?” Kodi stated. “I mean…what can we do?”

I let out a sigh and looks at the group, seeing them arguing with one another while I looked at my Hacking Gun. This is bad…King Sombra is making his way towards the empire and we practically got nothing…so what can we do?

Suddenly, I heard another loud howling as I looked back and saw Sombra’s evil grin as he slowly made his way through the front entrance of the kingdom in a slow pace through those dark clouds. 

King Sombra…I don’t wanna do this dude. While we came here to stop you from trying to take over the Crystal Empire and inflict the fear and terror you gave to these innocent Crystal Ponies, I won’t let you get away with this. That’s why…we’ll stop you, but I need to find a chance to get through you…

But right now, we need to order another shield to protect us from him. Cadance is too tired out to use anymore of her spells, Shining can’t used his horn, and Twilight can’t focus on finding a way to save this kingdom while at the same time to find the Crystal Heart, which turns out that it was real. Oh man…if only there was another unicorn that can use magic to create another shield for the empire…

Wait…magic….Unless….That’s it!

“Jamie!” I quickly turned to him, who flinched upon hearing his name being called out.

“H-huh? Y-Yes Ren?” Jamie asked in bewilderment.

“You have to create a new shield for Cadance’s place!” Everyone stared at me with baffled looks while Jamie widened his eyes in shock, along with Twilight. 

“Ren, what are you talking about?!” Kaede exclaimed. “Jamie can’t use magic!”

“No…I-I can…” Jamie answered.

“Huh?!” Kaede stared at him with a surprised look on her face. “You can what?!”

“Since when the hell can you even do magic?!” Jack demanded.

“W-well…” Jamie glanced away nervously. “You see…I discovered about this for some time ago just right after that Changeling Invasion. Ever since those cutie-marks appeared on my cheeks, I’ve somehow been able to use magic just like Twilight, Rarity, the princesses, Shining, and pretty much, any unicorn around here in Equestria.”

“W-whoa! That’s so crazy!” Kaede widened her eyes in awe and shock.

“So in other words, you can use magic?” Mason questioned, which Jamie nodded and replied “W-well…I haven’t been using it that much, so I-I don’t think I can do it…”

“No offense, but there’s no way!” Shining shook his head with a solemn look on his face. “It’s a high-level spell and if what Jamie said is the truth, it’ll be impossible!”

Ouch man, I think you said as a little roast towards him.

“But he has to try!” I exclaimed. “I know he can.”

“B-but…!” I gave Jamie a soft smile and continued “Trust me Jamie, I know you can. You’re already strong, and if you keep on believing in yourself, then you have the ability to do anything. Just don’t doubt yourself like you done back then, believe in yourself. If I remember one song back then from a certain anime that I really love so much…’Be a hero’.”

“Be…a hero?” Jamie asks slowly. 

“Yeah…no matter who you are, anyone has the potential to be one and I know you can…don’t do this for us, but do this for yourself.” I smiled while the others stared at me in surprise while Jamie placed a hand on his chest with a thoughtful look on his face. 

“Be…a hero…” Jamie muttered before slowly forming a confident look on his face. “Alright…I’ll…I’ll try!”

“Nerd?” Jack called.

Jamie closed his eyes and took a deep breath as he raised his hands in the air in a slow manner. Once so, he began concentrating while we all watched him.

“Be a hero…be a hero…be a hero…” Oh wow, he really took my advice. Heh heh, I didn’t expect that. “I…need to be a hero…”

With that, we saw his hands slowly glowing in a dark blue aura and soon a small ball of light formed in his hands. We all became shocked to see this. Whoa! That’s crazy! That’s awesome but crazy at the same time! 

Whoa! His cutie-mark cheeks are glowing too! That’s frigging awesome! 

With that, all of his energy flared up around his body before a blast shot from his hands and with that, a bright light circulate around us before it revealed a new and proper shield build up around the entire empire, blocking Sombra’s way.

“Whoa! It actually worked!” Kaede exclaimed.

“It worked…It actually worked…!” Twilight grinned happily before running over and hugging Jamie, who blushed brightly while the rest of us smiled in satisfaction and sheer awed. Holy crap-baskets, that actually worked! I knew that he can do it!

“Wow…he actually did it.” Shining blinked in shock. “I can’t believe that actually worked.”

“Jamie…how did you do that?!” Kaede demanded.

“Oh…w-well…” Jamie blushed a bit, glancing away in embarrassment. 

“Oh, he apparently does that ever since he gotten those cutie-marks on his face.” Kodi explained, cutting Jamie off.

“H-Hey wait!” Jamie called.

“Yeah, we even were so shocked upon seeing him did that! I thought for a second there that he did the Force like from Star Wars.” I added, ignoring the shocked Jamie.

“Do I get a saying out of this?!”

“Huh, incredible.” Mason complimented.

“Cool! That’s pretty amazing Jamie!” Carrie giggled. 

“O-Oh….thank you…” Jamie muttered, blushing a bit.

“I gotta admit, even I was taken by surprise.” Shining added, still shocked by what he witnessed.

“Damn nerd, you never cease to amaze me.” Jack walked over and placed a hand on his shoulder with a toothy grin on his face, which seemed to hurt Jamie a bit before he smiled awkwardly at him and replied “Y-Yeah…thanks Jack.”

Jamie grinned softly before moaning a bit as he held his head in pain. 

“O-Ohhh….my head….” Jamie muttered. 

“Jamie, what’s wrong?” Kaede asked in concern.

“It’s the spell…” We all turned to Cadance, who slowly gotten up and was still exhausted from using the spell. “I don’t know how he did it…but even with these strange newfound powers he has….it must apply the same thing with unicorns and getting a magic strain from keeping focus of putting this shield in hold….”

“Then we gotten no time!” Shining exclaimed, making a serious look. “If he’s having the same problem as Cadance has, it won’t be long till he feels the side-effects…”

“D-Don’t worry…I-I’ll keep my power in contact with keeping the shield under my control…” Jamie coughed, concentrating on all his might on keeping the magic barrier under control.

“Jamie, don’t take it too far.” Mason said with a stern yet calm look. “You just need to stay calm.”

“I-I’ll try…” Jamie softly smiled before groaning in pain.

“Damn…he’s really taking it.” Jack widened his eyes in shock. “That’s pretty tough, even for someone like him.”

“So what can we do?” Kodi wondered.

“Well we now learn that the Crystal Heart is actually a real relic and Jamie is using his newfound magic powers to create the barrier in Cadance’s place…” I thought aloud. “So maybe we need to find the Crystal Heart.”

“Isn’t that frigging obvious?” Jack scoffed.

“He’s right! We need to do as everything as we can to protect the empire!” Shining nodded. “I have to find the Crystal Heart!”

But before he could take off, Twilight got in his way and said “No, you stay here with Cadance and Jamie. They need you, Shining Armor. I’ll retrieve the Heart.”

“W-what?” Jamie asked in worried. “B-but Twilight…”

“I’m sorry Jamie, but you can’t come. You already using this new magic of yours to keep the barrier intact. If  you come, you might lose focus of it and have King Sombra break into the empire and scare the Crystal Ponies.” Twilight explained. “Don’t worry, I’ll be alright.”

“T-Twilight…!” Jamie’s face turned a bit pale with concern.

“Wait Twilight, let us come.” I offered with a serious look. “I mean, I understand where you’re going along with this, but you can’t do this alone. Let some of us accompany you for protection.”

“Yeah! Let’s do this!” Rainbow Dash grinned.

“Well…I’ve been trying to figure out how I’m meant to pass Celestia’s test! Retrieving the Crystal Heart must be it.” Twilight replied.

“Meaning?” Kodi raised a brow in confusion.

“Meaning that I want you guys to do something else you all can do.” Huh? Something else? But we can’t do that!

“Name it.” Jack smirked, crossing his arms.

“You and the rest of our friends have to keep the Faire going.” Twilight ordered, which made the rest of us to widened our eyes in shock.

“What? With that thing moving into the Empire?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“The whole purpose of the Crystal Faire is to life the spirits of the Crystal Ponies, so they can activate the Crystal Heart.” We all raised a brow as I asked “Yeah, and?”

“S-She means that if the Crystal Ponies finds out that King Sombra is trying to take over the Empire again, their spirits are gonna be anything but lifted.” Jamie explained, putting a hand on his head as he began feeling an headache. “It won’t matter if you all find the Crystal Heart. They won’t be able to make it work. You have to keep them happy here at the Faire.”

“Yeah, what he said.” Twilight nodded before giving him a concern look. “I’m sorry you have to endure this Jamie. It should have been me.”

“D-Don’t blame yourself Twilight…I did this so that…no one can do this…” Jamie moaned, but managed to make a small smile on his face. “C-Can you guys…please hurry…I’m having a really hard headache…”

“Damn nerd…taking the bold move like that.” Jack looked at him with a grin. “Sounds to me that you’re slowly getting better with yourself.”

“O-Oh…thank you…” Jamie muttered with a small blush on his face.

“Well at least I get what you all saying then.” Rainbow Dash muttered. “We gotta keep the Faire going and the Crystal Ponies spirits high. Done and done!”

“Well…fine. Do whatever you want…” Jack sighed, scratching the back of his head. “I won’t stop ya…”

I frowned a bit, looking back at the barrier where we last saw King Sombra trying to make his way towards the empire. We gotta hurry…and Twilight needs all the help he needs.

“Don’t…give up…” Huh? Who said that? I looked around till I saw no one but us around. What is this? “You are the…one…who can…filled…this kingdom…with light…and hope…even the deepest of the darkness can be…filled with…love…”

That strange voice…who is telling me this? What is going on? Is this…one of those weird voices that no one knows till they reach the finale to discover their true identity, and they encouraged the players to keep on fighting. Hmm…strange. Well I’m sure it’s nothing like this. But even so, I’m gonna go and listen to the voice.

“Twilight, please let me come.” I offered, turning to her. “I wanna help ya out as the best as I can.”

“What? But Ren-”

“I know I might get in the way, but I want to try and help out as much as I can. Trust me, we’ll succeed.” I pointed out with a smile on my face. “Trust me Twilight, I’ll do as much as I can to help out.”

Twilight stared at me with widened eyes before sighing and smiling softly at me.

“There’s really no convincing to not come, huh?” I nodded with a smile on my face while Twilight couldn’t help but chuckle. “Well alright then, I’ll let you come.”

“Ren, are you sure that this is a good idea?” Kaede asked in worried.

“Kaede’s right. What if you get hurt? Can I…come too?” Fluttershy suggested.

“No Flutters, you have to stay here.” Fluttershy widened her eyes upon hearing what I said. “I’m sorry…I’m not saying that you’ll get in the way, I’m saying this because I don’t want to get you hurt from where we gonna go and get the Crystal Heart.”

“B-but…I don’t want to see you get hurt either.” Fluttershy pointed out. “Please Ren, think about this.”

“I am, and I know what I’m doing.” I nodded before hugging her. “Don’t worry, I’ll be alright. Just have faith in me, Flutters. I promise that I’ll be okay.”

“…O-Okay…” Fluttershy nodded before making a meek smile. “I’ll…believe in you, Ren.”

She flapped her wings and flew at my height before kissing me on the forehead, causing me to chuckle as I scratched my cheek with a soft smile.

“Ren…” I turned to Mason, who folded his arms with a stern look. I frowned a bit upon seeing that till I noticed he softened it. “Good luck.”

“Huh?” I asked, blinking in surprise before smiling softly at him. “Okay dude.”

“Big brother, why don’t you go too?” Carrie offered, much to Mason’s surprise.

“C-Carrie…why would you say that? I have to keep you all safe, even you.” Mason reminded.

“But I’ll be alright. Besides, Jack, Kaede, and the others will watch over me.” Carrie said, putting her hands on her hips as she pouted. “I’m not a little kid anymore!”

“Umm…but you are.” Jack stated, rubbing the back of his head.

“But…” Mason hesitated as he clenched onto his fists. “I…what would happen to you if I wasn’t there, then I…”

“Mason, it’s best if you go.” We all turned to Shining Armor, who gave him a soft grin. “I know that you’re worried, but I’ll keep an eye out for Cadance, Jamie, and Carrie in your place.”

“But Shining-”

“As captain, I order you to go!” Whoa! He looks really scary when being serious.

“Ah…” Mason widened his eyes before sighing and giving him a smile.  “I see how it is…and I understand. Alright, I promise that I won’t let any of you down.”

“So does that mean…?” Carrie asked, blinking in surprise. Mason turned to her and nodded before he hugged her tightly.

“Promise me that nothing will happen to you. I know that I can’t always protect you, that’s why I’m giving you this one chance where you need to act brave and don’t be afraid.” Mason lectured. “Can you promise me?”

“Yes big brother.” Carrie nodded. “I promise that I will be on my best behavior.”

“Thank you, little sis.” Mason chuckled before ruffling up her hair, causing her to giggle while the rest of us chuckled or held amused smiles.

Those two have really strong bond with each other. A really strong genuine bond.

“Don’t worry, I’ll keep an eye out for her.” Jack walked over with a confident look on his face. “Well I ain’t good with kids, but at least I’ll keep the brat in check and not get lost.”

Mason smiled at him before replying “I sure hope so, or else I’ll beat you down.”

“Heh, we’ll see about that.” Jack grinned before we saw his stomach growling a bit. We all gave him blank looks till he blushed and exclaimed “What?! I’m hungry, okay?!”

“You seriously have a stomach problem.” Rainbow Dash muttered with a deadpan look.

“Anyway, I guess I can take you two.” Twilight shrugged. “But can you both promise me that nothing will go wrong with you two.”

“We will.” Me and Mason nodded in unison. 

“And we promise that we’ll keep the Faire going and make everypony’s spirits lifted.” Kaede grinned. “You can trust us.”

“Hell yeah.” Jack nodded. “And I think I know one thing that’ll get everypony’s heart pumping.”

“Really? What’s that?” Kodi asked.

“We’ll have a contest to see who’s the best. Everyone loves that kind of thing and that’ll get everyone pumped up.” Jack grinned cockily. “But I know you guys won’t match up with me…well…maybe Mason and Skittles…”

“’Maybe’? ‘Maybe’?!” Rainbow Dash flew straight to his face with a serious look and exclaimed “Oh! It is so on! Let’s see what you got in store with all my speed and all…that.”

“Are ya calling me fat?” Jack asked, narrowing his eyes at her.

“Maybe fatty.” Rainbow grinned cockily, making Jack grits his teeth in anger. Oh boy, I’m not liking where this is going.

“You guys, calm down.” I intervened before turning to Jack. “Well I guess that could work. We need to have the Crystal Ponies to stay happy, but I know you guys can do it.”

“Heh, thanks for liking at my idea.” Jack grinned before ruffling my hair. “Now go! Leave the rest of this to us! After all…” Jack gave Rainbow Dash a quick glare before saying “I’m going to have some fun breaking the wings off this blue cocky bird.”

“Oh, you did not go there!” Rainbow Dash growled angrily at him. 

“Oh…I’m going to be having some major fun with ya…” Jack cracked his knuckles while some of us groaned.

“What does he mean?” Kodi wondered.

“They aren’t gonna fight, are they?” Carrie asked her brother, who pinched the bridge of his nose before replying “Oh trust me Carrie…I’m afraid that they will…but in their own way…”

“I just hope that they won’t go too far…” Fluttershy frowned a bit. Well…I hope so too, but I’m afraid that’s a 1% chance of them ever stopping from their grudge against each other.

“G-Guys…can you all like maybe go now…please?” Jamie began coughing violently and was groaning with a pale look.

“Oh right! We’ll get going!” I nodded.

“Ren, what about me?” Kodi asked. I turned to him with a slight frown, wondering if I should bring him with us or let him stay here. Well actually, maybe…

“I think maybe you should stay here and protect the others. I know this is hard, but can you at least do that for me?” I suggested, much to Kodi’s shock.

“But what if…you know, if something happens to you guys and I’m not there to call for help.” Kodi wondered with a worried look.

“Don’t worry bud, we’ll be alright. That I promise you.” I assured with a soft smile before scratching him from behind the ears. Kodi chuckled before smiling at me and replied “Okay…just promise me that nothing will happen to you.”

“I promise.” I vowed, raising my hand with a smile.

“Pinkie promise?” Kodi raised a brow, which made me sigh before doing the thing.

“Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” Everyone chuckled at the scene as Twilight cleared her throat and said “Now come on you two, let’s head out and find that Crystal Heart.”

“Alright, let’s go and Carrie…” Mason turned to his sister with a soft smile and said “Please…be safe with the others.”

“Okay big brother…” Carrie nodded.

“Don’t worry, we promise that we’ll keep her safe.” Kaede assured.

“Alright then, we’ll be heading our way then.” I smirked before turning to Fluttershy and kissing her by the forehead. “And don’t worry Flutters, I’ll be alright.”

“Okay, good luck Ren.” Fluttershy smiled. “I promise that I’ll try my best to get everyone happy and I hope you’ll do great.”

“Mm-hmm.” I smirked before turning to Mason and Twilight, who nodded as we began to head out while Jamie stood there and tried to concentrate, but due to using magic for something like this for the first time, it’s struggling for him to keep it intact to make Sombra not coming his way towards the Empire. 

“Twily, Mason, Ren, be careful.” Shining called.

“We will.” We answered with confident looks before we all headed out to search for the Crystal Heart. I know we can search for it!…H-huh? What in the? What was that? I swore that I saw a shadow…what in the world is going on? I’m not seeing things, am I?



Meanwhile
Kodi’s POV

Man, I should have gone with Ren. I’m so worried about him….he’s my best friend and it’s my job to protect as his best friend. He would’ve done the same for me…but…what can I do? I’m stuck here with the others on keeping the Crystal Ponies happy as ever.

While I walked around with Carrie and Kaede as we inspect every one last of the Crystal Ponies while Rainbow Dash went off to tell the others who weren’t with us about what we discovered and what we have to do.

“I really wish big brother, Ren, and Twilight would bring us along with him.” Carrie wondered. 

“I know, I wish I could have done something but I think we might be able to get everypony happy as long as we give them a good time.” Kaede assured with a soft grin. “I mean, it can’t be that hard, right?”

“Well yeah.” I nodded. “It wasn’t that hard the first time when we started out this Faire.”

“Oh yeah! Maybe if we showed them many games, we can get them more excited than ever!” Carrie grinned happily.

“That’s actually a good idea.” Kaede nodded before noticing a bunch of Crystal Ponies were trying to shoot their mark with a bowing arrow, but kept dropping the arrow. 

“Aww…I can’t do it…” He groaned, which made us frown.

“Poor guy…” Kaede muttered before smiling softly before walking over and said “Excuse me, do you want me to help you?”

“Oh, can you do this?” He asked curiously, which Kaede nodded.

“Well…I did Archery once a while back, but haven’t done it in a while.” Kaede admitted with an awkward grin. “But I’m sure that it’s easy. You just need to stay calm and be focused on your target.”

“Focus…on your target?” A female Crystal Pony asked curiously.

“Yes, if you stay focus, then we know that you can do it.” Kaede smiled before she helped the pony that previously shot the arrow as she held their hooves as they slowly pulled a crystal-like arrow from the back of the string of the arrow. “Now…focus on the target, and time it well…and…shoot!”

They both shot an arrow and it made a bulls-eyes on the middle of the target, much to the Crystal Ponies’ joy.

“Wow! I really did it!” The male Crystal Pony exclaimed in joy, transforming into his crystallized form. “Thank you so much ma’am!”

“Anytime. Anything I can do to help.” Kaede giggled. 

“Wow, that was so amazing! I never knew that you were so good at Archery!” The female Crystal Pony grinned happily.

“Yeah, neither did I.” Kaede nodded before frowning a bit. “Huh…neither did I…”

“Kaede, what’s wrong?” I asked, walking towards her and whimpering in concern.

“Well…it’s what they said…it made me realize something…” Kaede hummed. “I never knew that I could do archery, and…it was just like before back on Nightmare Night where I was shooting those weird shadow demons. Ren even gave it to me…like he knew that I could do that…”

Well actually, she does have a point. But that was the only weapon that Ren saw that you could use, and he was believing in you. So…what’s the problem with that? However, as I kept thinking, I heard Kaede groaning as she placed her hands on her head with a struggled look on her face.

“K-Kaede! What’s wrong?!” Carrie asked in concern.

“Ugh…I feel as though I’m having a headache…Ngh!” Kaede gritted her teeth as she began feeling that headache.

“Kaede!” I called, giving her a worried look.

“Ugh…my head…” Kaede slowly opened her eyes and rubbed her head. “What…did I just saw?”

“What do you mean?” Carrie asked. “Did you see something?”

“I-I think…it was some palace…and…it looked almost like…the Crystal Empire…” Kaede groaned, rubbing her aching head. “I don’t understand…why did I see that?”

“Really?” Carrie tilted her head till she began to groan and held her head. “Ow…my head…”

“You too Carrie?!” I asked in shock. 

“H-hey Carrie! Calm down!” Kaede bend down and placed her hands on her shoulder with a concern look. “What’s wrong?”

“Ugh….” Carrie groaned before she let out a gasp. “I-I saw it too! I saw a palace that looked almost similar to the Crystal Empire!”

“So looks like we remembered the same thing…” Kaede placed a hand on her chin. “But…what does it mean? Why…did we remember this place? I mean…I’m no architect or archaeologist or whatever job relates about finding places around the world back in our world, but I know for sure that it didn’t existed in our world at all. I wonder what it means…”

“ALRIGHT! YOU ARE SO ON FATTY!”

“BRING IT SKITTLES!”

Huh? What the? What’s going on?!

“What was that?” Carrie wondered.

“I don’t know, let’s go and find out what’s happening!” Kaede suggested.

“Right!” I nodded as we immediately followed the trace of that loud sound. We all past through the crowds while I barked at some of them, catching some of the ponies’ attention as they moved out of the way for us as we managed to get in the front, bumping into Applejack, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie in the process.

“Hey you guys, what’s going on?” Kaede asked.

“Uhh…I’m not sure how to explain this, but…” Applejack pointed her hoof right in front of us as we looked and saw Jack and Rainbow were standing around in a field wearing armor. Well…only Rainbow Dash was wearing a weird crystal-like armor while Jack only wore the helmet and they held large poles. 

“Ooh! Ooh! This is gonna be good!” Pinkie cheered, eating a bag of popcorn.

“Hey, can I have some?” I asked with a pleading look.

“Sure!” Pinkie nodded before giving me a hoof-full of popcorn, which I happily ate. 

“But…shouldn’t we stop this?” Carrie asked.

“Well they did say that they were gonna entertain the rest of the Crystal Ponies by having a competition, so I should have saw this coming…” Kaede sweat-dropped.

“Oh…” Carrie nodded. “But I never seen something like this. I read about it, but I forgotten what it was.”

“Well don’t worry, I’m sure they’ll go easy on each other.” Fluttershy assured before muttering “I hope…”

“Get ready Skittles! I’m gonna crush you so hard that I’ll probably sit on you on my butt!” Jack pointed his butt in front of her and grins at her, who snorts at Jack.

“Please, I like to see you try!” Rainbow rolled her eyes before cracking her hooves. “Now then…let’s see what you got!”

“You goddamn right! YAAAAAH!” 

“AAHHHHH!” Both Jack and Rainbow Dash charged at each other with determined looks till…

BAM!

We all gasped upon seeing Jack being sat on by Rainbow Dash after she managed to push him out of the way.

“Ha…you were saying?” Rainbow grinned teasingly, chuckling to herself while Jack growled angrily as her tail smacked him on the face, adding more to his fury.

“Well that’s a bit awkward…” Kaede sweat-dropped.

“Yeah, but it looks like the crowd likes it.” Applejack pointed out.

“Well I guess maybe their contest really is working!” Carrie smiled happily. “But why do they always fight like that?”

“Cause they’re stubborn, that’s what Carrie.” Applejack answered bluntly.

“Like you?” Carrie asked, which made Applejack chuckled sheepishly.

“Yeah…just like me.” I couldn’t help but snicker at that till I noticed something that caught my scent. Curiously, I began sniffing around the ground and searched for the source of that smell till I came over and saw Spike running towards the palace.

“Spike?” I chased after him through the palace till I managed to caught up to him as I called “Spike, what are you doing?”

“Rainbow Dash told me and Rarity that Twilight went out to go and find the Crystal Heart!” Spike explained. “That’s why I need to hurry before it’s too late!”

“But they said that they can handle this!” Kodi assured. “I trust them, so you should too!”


“B-but Twilight’s the best friend I ever had, other than Ren and Mason! I can’t let them do this on their own!” Spike retorted, which made me frown. I understand how he feels, but I trust Ren and the others. I know they can do this. There’s no reason for Spike to go and do this alone. But…

Suddenly, my thoughts were cut-off as we heard some growling, which made the both of us turned around and saw a familiar raccoon racing towards us with a frantic look on his face.

“Gizmo?” I raised a brow of confusion as he immediately came over, holding a book and a photo in his little arms.

“What’s he trying to say? I can’t understand him at all.” Spike shrugged with a bewildered look. I took the time to translate what he was trying to say, along with the little gestures he made.

“I think he’s telling us that something happened to Rantaro and Nicole, and he apparently gotten some items that they found a while back while they went away from us.” I translated before forming a confused look. “Wait…what happened?”

Gizmo twiddled his fingers and began making more cries to us, and by ‘us’, I mean ‘me’ since I can understand what he was saying.

“Oh…so they were taken out and were dragged away by someone.” I smirked before me and Spike bulged our eyes in shock. 

“Wait what?!” We exclaimed in shock.

Gizmo showed us the book and the photo, which Spike picked up and looked through them, including the photo. One look at it and we saw two fillies, one was a mare that we haven’t recognized and the other…well…I saw his eyes and I recognized those eyes anywhere!

“Is that…King Sombra?!” I exclaimed in shock. “W-Why is he in this photo?!”

“I don’t know…but something is definitely strange!” Spike exclaimed as he looked through the book. “I mean, whoever wrote this was telling us some details about Sombra. In fact, I didn’t even know this guy even lived here.”

“Really?” I walked over and began reading the book before widening my eyes upon seeing the contents of this. “Whoa…whoever wrote this must’ve known Sombra. But…wait, he lived here?”

“Apparently so. Heh, I guess this guy is doing this for his own reasons. I guess probably because it states of how he was mistreated and all that for being a unicorn.” Spike skimmed through the book with a curious look. “But this book and that photo are really important clues that we need to show to the others!”

“Wait, what about Rantaro and Nicole?” I reminded him. “I mean, we can’t just leave them behind! We need to go and look for them!”

“But Twilight and the others…!” I gave Spike a very serious look and exclaimed “We can’t just leave them behind like that! Ren would never do that! He would always stay by their side and help his friends just like he did with some of us! Even Flutters! Are you saying that we should abandoned them for good!”

“N-No…that’s not what I meant. It’s just that…” Gizmo glared at Spike, who flinched as the two of us continued to glare at him. Spike let out a groan before saying “Fine…we’ll go save them. But once so, let’s go find Twilight, Ren, and Mason.”

“Thanks Spike!” I grinned happily. “And sure if Rantaro and Nicole are difficult to interact, but we know they aren’t so bad people. I can tell by smell.”

“By…smell?” Spike asked incredulous.

“Yeah.” I smiled while Spike scratched the back of his head with a sweat-drop.

“No offense dude, but I highly doubt that.” I gave Spike a pout, which made him chuckled sheepishly. Hey! I ain’t lying! I can so smell their feelings and I know for a fact that they aren’t bad people! Even Ren believes that!

Suddenly, our conversation came to a halt as we turned back and saw Gizmo calling out for us, and gave us a glare.

“Oh right! Sorry!” I apologized sheepishly before turning to Spike. “Now come on! Let’s head out and find those two!”

“O-Okay.” Spike nodded before hopping on my back. I turned to Gizmo and nodded, who smirked before getting on my back as well before he kicked me by the hip, causing me to yelp.

“O-Ow! Hey!” I glared at Gizmo, who smiled innocently. He so did that! How could he?!

“Who cares?! Just follow their scent!” Spike exclaimed before he looked down at Gizmo. “Gizmo, do you know where they went?”

Gizmo nodded before he pointed to the end of the hall, which I managed to do as we ran straight towards the end of the hall and what we saw was a painting of a pony princess.

“Well…is this the spot?” I asked as Gizmo nodded before jumping off my head and made the painting tilted, forcing the wall behind it to fall back and slide out of the way, revealed a secret passage.

“Whoa!” Spike and I exclaimed in awe. “So they went down here?”

Gizmo nodded before hopping on my back again before kicking me again, making me yelped again.

“Ow! Quit it!” I growled, which made Gizmo laughed. I swear, this raccoon really just love showing off.

“Hey you guys, let’s focus on finding Rantaro and Nicole! Right now, they could be in danger!” Spike reminded us.

“Oh right…let’s head out.” I nodded before looking towards the secret passageway. “Man…I just hope we can find them in time.”

“Me too…” Spike gulped before turning to Gizmo with a worried look. “Are you sure that they went through here?”

Gizmo crossed his arms and nodded firmly, which made the both of us gulped.

“W-well…we got no choice. We have to save them…” I slowly formed a determined and serious look as I gazed at the secret passageway. After all, Ren wouldn’t abandoned any of his friends. He would have done the same and encouraged us to keep going. That’s why…I’m gonna keep moving forward with hope in my heart. For Rantaro and Nicole…

“Let’s do this…” I began trekking down the secret passageway alongside with Spike and Gizmo on my back as we began to head out through this tunnel while the door behind us slowly closed. Well…there’s no turning back. Now it’s time to focus and save our friends! For our friends…and to my best friend, Ren.



Ren’s POV

“So if I were the Crystal Heart, where would I be?” I thought aloud as we explored some hallways around the Crystal Empire’s palace. “I mean…it’s going to be hard since he might have placed it somewhere that we wouldn’t expect. That’s a classic thing villain loves to do.”

“Well we need to focus on where it could be.” Mason replied, covering his mouth while he was in deep thought. He soon turned towards Twilight and asked “Twilight, what are your thoughts?”

“I think I might know where King Sombra hid the Crystal Heart.” We turned to Twilight with surprised and confused looks.

“What do you mean?” I asked in confusion.

“I’m talking about the throne room.”

“The throne room?” Mason asked.

“The more I think about it, it makes sense to begin with.” The throne room, huh...Wait…

“Hold on, is it because that since everypony is afraid of Sombra, they wouldn’t dare enter the throne room? And because of that, it might be the only place he could have hidden the Crystal Heart?” I guessed.

“Correct, and I thought that it might be the first place we could check out.” Twilight nodded.

“That sounds right about that.” Mason hummed in agreement. “Hmm…I wouldn’t be surprised if he did hide it somewhere in the throne room.”

“Exactly!” Twilight smiled.

“Well I hope you’re right.”

“You and me both, you guys.” Twilight gulped before we began to head out towards the throne room. Hmm…it looked pretty fine like any normal throne. I mean, I’ve seen Celeste and Lulu’s throne room, so of course I had a feeling about it.

“Alright, how about we split up?” Mason offered.

“Good idea Mason. We can search out much more faster.” I nodded in agreement before forming a determined look. “Now let’s hurry before that shield breaks! I’m not sure how long Jamie can hold onto it but I’m sure he can hold it as long as he can.”

“Right!” Twilight and Mason nodded before we all ran different different directions around the throne room.Twilight looked behind the throne room while I searched through the curtains and Mason was looked around through the doors that was inside of the throne room.

However, despite looking through every nook and cranny, we were coming out short…

“Ugh!” Twilight growled exasperatedly. “Did any of you guys find anything?!”

“No! Not at all!” Mason shook his head, having an upset look on his face. “This is no good!”

“H-hey, don’t feel bad you guys. We can’t give up that easily.” I said with a  soft smile. “Right now, we need to keep looking.”

“You’re right Ren. It’s gotta be here somewhere.” Twilight nodded, trying to think as hard as she could. “It’s just gotta be! It has to!”

“Yes…but where?” Mason wondered as I looked around till I noticed a crystal on top of the throne. I stared at it till a memory flashed through my mind back when we were talking about the Crystal Empire, and the crystal that Celeste used to show us a hologram of the empire….That’s it…I wonder….does it work on mine. 

I took out my Hacking Gun and aimed it at the crystal before shooting a ‘Link’ bullet.

“Link!” I shouted, shooting it directly at the crystal as the other two looked back at me and saw the crystal interacting with the ‘Link’ bullet, causing the crystal to shined brightly at it, showing off many different colors.

“I knew it! It’s really one of the crystals that Celeste was talking about!” I exclaimed. 

“Ah! Celestia’s orders!” Twilight smiled brightly. “Ren, you just made me realize something!”

“What do you mean?” Mason asked curiously.

“Well she said something about the power of the crystals here in the empire. If it Empire is filled with hope and love, those things and reflected across all of Equestria. If hatred and fear take hold…”

“Then it’ll bring despair and chaos!” Twilight finished, which I nodded. “Of course! It makes sense!”

“I see…but how can it to be?” Mason questioned.

“Because this isn’t King Sombra’s castle.” I answered, which Twilight nodded.

“Exactly. He may have lived when he was in power, but it didn’t look like this at all.” Twilight pointed out before turning to the crystal and closed her eyes, focusing real hard till we saw sweat forming around her face as a dark green beam was shot right out of her horn, with her eyes showing the same menacing look the Celeste showed us back at Canterlot when demonstrating Sombra’s powers. The dark green beam shot towards the large purple crystal, causing it to turn dark before its shadow surround half of the throne room. We moved out of its way as the shadow revealed a secret stairway just in the middle of the throne room.

“Cool! A secret stairway!” I exclaimed. “Why didn’t I think of that?”

“Clever.” Mason muttered. “I’m surprised that you managed to see that, Ren.”

“Heh heh, well I’m not dumb.” I scratched the back of my head with a sheepish grin. “It just…sorta hit me. But anyway…where did you learn that Twilight?”

I turned to her with a surprised look but held a smile on my face. 

Twilight smirked and winked at us before replying “That was a little trick Celestia taught me.”

“Whoa, that’s pretty impressive. I guess that’s why you’re her faithful student.” I chuckled.

“Indeed.” Mason nodded with a soft smile before we heard loud rumbling. “Huh?”

“What in the world was that?!” I exclaimed before rushing towards a nearby window before letting out a gasp, seeing the barrier nearly fading away as those dark clouds began forming around and some started swarming through the inside, turning some of the crystals into dark color.

“Dammit!” Mason cursed himself. “Jamie’s shield is nearly fading away! This is bad! We need to hurry as fast as we can!”

“Right! We have to hurry before it’s too late!” I nodded in agreement before running towards the stair till I was pulled by Twilight as she held by the hoodie with her magic. “What is it Twilight?”

“Ren, we need to be careful!” Twilight warned with a cautious look. “We’re not sure if Sombra made any traps down here.”

“Twilight may have a point there. We need to be cautious.” Mason nodded, forming a stern look. 

“Right…sorry.” I apologized as Twilight let go of my hoodie as we all gazed down at the dark stairway, seeing it endlessly go down to the bottom. Frankly, there were so many stairs that I couldn’t even see where it ends. I couldn’t help but feel nervous about going down there, but right now, we can’t give up after coming this far onto searching for the Crystal Heart. 

I took a deep breath and held back my fears as I said “Come on you guys…let’s go.”

Twilight and Mason nodded as we began heading down the stairway. Twilight used her horn to shine some light as we continued to descend straight down towards our way towards the Crystal Heart. Like seriously, did Sombra like walked all the way down here? If so, then I’ll admit…he’s crazy. Although, I really wish this guy had an elevator…



Later

“Phew…made it…” I sighed in relief as we finally arrived to the bottom of the stairs till I fell flat on the floor while Mason walked over to me and helped me up before asking “Are you okay?”

“Y-Yeah…just so many stairs…I-I’ll be alright…” I panted, wiping away the sweat off of my forehead. “Like seriously, why did he make so many stairs?”

“Don’t know, but that’s not important.” Mason remarked. “Right now, what’s important is finishing up the mission on finding the Crystal Heart in time. Jamie’s power is nearly draining as we know right now.”

“Yeah…I know.” I nodded before turning to the far back of the room and the moment I did…

“Huh?” What the heck? A…door? And it looked pretty normal. That’s…totally not suspicious, huh? 

“What the? A door? A door to what though?” Twilight wondered before walking over to it. 

“Whatever it is, it’s obviously a trap. We need to be careful, Twilight.” Mason wore a cautious look on his face. “Something about that door seems to be way too obvious yet dangerous.”

“Yeah, it’s obviously a trap.” I nodded.

“I appreciate your concerns, you two. But I’ll be alright.” Twilight assured as she raised her hoof towards the doorknob, but the moment she did, something hit her on the forehead as she immediately fell on her butt.

“Twilight!” We both shouted and ran towards her with rising concerns on our faces. “Twilight, are you alright?!” I asked in worried.

“Ugh…huh? What the?” Twilight soon opened her eyes, showing off a green aura around them as we gasped and took a step backed.

“Oh no! Is Twilight possessed or something?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“I-I’m not sure…but I did warned her not to open that door!” Mason growled. “Now what?!”

“P-Princess Celestia? What are you doing here?” Wait what? Celeste? But she isn’t even around? What is she talking about? “W-What? Go where?…I don’t understand! The test? I…You didn’t say anything about no longer being your student if I failed!”

“Something’s wrong…” Mason muttered, looking back at the already closed door. “And it leads to a dead end…was this a trap?”

“Hold on, let me try to do something to help Twilight.” I offered, taking out my Hacking Gun and aiming it straight at her.

“W-Wait! Ren! What are you-”

“Link!” I shot a heart-shaped truth bullet with rainbow colors at Twilight, hitting her by the forehead and it made her stop from whoever she was talking about and stood back up till I turn off the effects of it. 

“Ugh…” Twilight groaned, rubbing her aching head. “What in the?”

“What? But Ren…how did you know that would work?” Mason asked, looking at me in surprise.

“I…don’t know. I just…knew.” I shrugged, not knowing how I did it too. Huh…it’s strange, but I guess because it worked before with that purple crystal.

“Ugh…what? What just happened?” Twilight asked us with a raised brow.

“I don’t know. You just opened that door and moments later, you just were talking to yourself while your eyes were glowing green.” I explained, pointing over to the door as I walked over and opened it, but the moment I did…

I felt as if everything I was seeing turned blurry, like I was being swirled around in a vortex or something. It felt as if…I was dying…I…felt…so ill…



….W-Where am I….?

“There he is! Get him!” H-Huh? I turned to my back and saw crowds of people running towards me.

“H-Hey! What are-What’s going on?!” I exclaimed in shock before I began running off in fear. “Leave me alone!”

I kept panting as my feet kept pushing me through. No matter how tired I was, I couldn’t get caught! I…don’t want to die! I want to live! I’m…supposed to be the hope of this world! One of the last fragments of light to save us all….Wait, what am I saying? What is all this?

“GET BACK HERE!”

“ABOMINATION!”

“WHY DO YOU GET TO LIVE?!”


“WHAT ABOUT US?!”

I…didn’t asked for this…I never wanted to be a part of this…I….why me? Why no on else….

I’m…just a normal kid. I…just wanted a normal life. Why did I have to be a part of this?

“Ren….Ren….Ren….REN!”



H-Huh? What the? Where…am I? 

SLAP!

“Ow!” I winced upon feeling my cheek turning red from whatever I just felt. I rubbed my cheek in pain before looking over and saw Mason was the one who slapped me.

“There we go…you had me worried there.” He sighed before forming a stern look. “What were you thinking?! Do you just seriously just opened that door and ended up the same way as Twilight?!”

“W-well…how was I supposed to know that it would have happened?” I scratched my injured cheek with a frown. “I-I didn’t mean to…just wanted to see what was the problem.”


“And I think you would have known from the start.” Mason retorted with a deadpanned look before letting out a small smile. “But either way…I’m glad you’re alright at least.”

“Same here.” Twilight nodded in agreement, walking over to me. “Are you okay Ren?”

“Y-Yeah…I think so…” I rubbed the back of my head with a sheepish grin before looking back at the door. “But seriously, what the heck is up with that door? I think I nearly gotten traumatized with a nightmare the moment I opened it.”

“Really? What did you see?” Twilight asked in concern. I scratched the back of my head, trying to remember the sequence of events I experienced just now. 

“Well…I looked like I was running away…from a bunch of people.” I explained, placing a hand on my head. “But…that’s all I can remember.”

“Being chased by a bunch of people?” Mason wondered, scratching his chin in thought before looking at me in surprise. “Wait…did those people call you by any names?”

“Yeah…but why do you ask?” I asked curiously. 

“Because that was a similar dream I had back when me and Carrie were getting used to Equestria.” Mason explained, much to me and Twilight’s shock.

“What?!” We asked in shock.

“Yeah…I dreamed about something like that, but I’ll explain that another time. Right now, we need to focus on our mission to save the Crystal Empire from Sombra.” Mason stated.

“R-Right…but there’s a dead end.” I pointed out, looking back at the door.

“Ren’s right…but there has to be a trick on this door.” Twilight says otherwise with a serious look. “Sombra wouldn’t make this stairway and a dead end down here.”

“Good point…” I nodded in agreement before noticing something that caught my eye. It was a small green crystal embedded onto the top of the door. Wait…that looks like…No way! I think I got it.

“Hey you guys, I think I got an idea and a way to solve this little puzzle.” I grinned.

“Great! What is it?” Twilight asked. To answer her question, I quickly took out my Hacking Gun and shot a ‘Link’ Truth Bullet at the green crystal, causing it to turn into a rainbow color before the dead end that circled around the door into a path.

“Whoa!” Twilight exclaimed in shock while Mason widened his eyes in surprise. Mason immediately walked over to me and turned to me before asking “H-How did you know that would work?”

“I…don’t know.” I chuckled sheepishly. “I swear…I just knew…”

Mason stared at me for a while before sighing and replied “Ren…you are strange sometimes…”

Meh, I take what I can. 

“Umm…guys?” We turned around to find Twilight looking through the doorway and gave us a sheepish smile. “I think the trip to find the Crystal Heart is gonna take a while.”

“Why do you say that?” I asked in confusion. 

“Twilight…what’s else is over by the path?” Mason questioned, hoping for a good answer. However, that gotten crushed with what she replied back.

“Stairs…lots and lots of stairs.” Twilight grinned sheepishly.

“Is it that bad?” I asked before Mason and I walked over and looked through the doorway, and…holy crap! That’s a lot of stairs! It’s like we’re climbing all the floors in Tartarus! Dang it, that was one of my problems I had when playing Persona 3! Well…hopefully we don’t encounter shadows while walking through here.

“….Never mind…” I sighed, sweat-dropping.

“Well…it’s best if we don’t complain and move on.” Mason suggested. “What do you say…leader?”

“Huh? Me?” I asked in surprise.

“Well yeah, you seemed qualified to be one, which I am kinda surprised saying so considering that you’re a year younger than I am.” Mason chuckled. “Besides, you’re the first human to ever wake up to this place and know how it goes, so you’re basically a leader to us all, even Twilight leads the other girls.”

“Hmm…a leader…” Wow, this is straight out from the Shin Megumi Tensei series. A leader….well I’m not that good at doing stuff like this. But…I wouldn’t mind. 

“Huh…I guess I can try.” I shrugged before looking upwards to the staircase. “So looks like we gotten no choice, huh?”

“It would seem so…” Twilight sighed before looking over at the dome. “I just hope Jamie’s doing alright…”

“Same here…” I nodded in agreement before looking at the dome nearly falling down. Jamie…please be alright.



Meanwhile

Jamie was sweating nervously as he was getting a really massive headache upon using his newfound magic powers to keep the dome intact out of Cadance’s place.

“Stay calm Jamie. You need to stay calm.” Shining stated sternly while he laid Cadance on the couch. 

“I-I’m trying…but this headache…” Jamie coughed. “I don’t feel so good…”

“I know how you feel, it happened with me and Cadance, but try to hold it in longer…” Shining remarked before looking over at the horizon, seeing the barrier nearly down as he sees the dark clouds leaking out of it and turning some of the crystals outside into dark crystals. Shining gritted his teeth while Jamie kept groaning in pain.

“I-I….can’t back down…not like this….ugh…” Jamie groaned, trying to overcome his headache. “Twilight…Ren…Mason…hurry….please….”



Later

“So up for another round fatty?”

Back at the Crystal Faire, Jack have been having a massive losing streak by the many jousting matches he had with Rainbow Dash. Apparently, she’s been way too strong, even against him against a simple match as this!

“S-Shut up…!” Jack hissed, getting all sweaty from the many matches he had with her. “Ugh…how the hell am I losing to ya, Skittles?!”

“Maybe I’m too good against someone like ya?” Rainbow Dash laughed while the crowd kept chanting Rainbow Dash’s name. Jack growled a bit while the others looked at them in concern.

“Why are those guys keep on fighting? Aren’t they gonna tire themselves out?” Carrie asked in worried.

“I don’t know why, but this is so exciting!” Pinkie giggled, wearing a jester outfit before blowing through a flugelhorn that was filled with popcorn at the end.

“Pinkie Pie, darling, would you stop doing that?” Rarity asked politely, getting rid some of the popcorn out of her mane. 

“I want to stop this, but knowing those two…” Applejack shook her head with an annoyed look. “They’re the stubbornest bunch you would ever find here in Equestria.”

“Yeah, but it looks like the crowd’s enjoying it at least.” Kaede chuckled sheepishly as Jack and Rainbow Dash gotten ready for their next jousting match.

“Whoa dude, you sure you wanna keep on going? I mean, you may be strong fatty, but I’m starting to get worried about ya.” Rainbow looked at Jack with a slightly concern look.

Jack scoffed as he replied “Don’t act like I have diabetes. My whole family have a whole history of never catching diabetes…and I’m not gonna lose to ya!”

“Well if you say so!” Rainbow grinned boastfully before charging towards him, which made Jack charged towards her till…

BAM!

Everyone winced and flinch upon seeing what happened. Apparently, the two crashed into each other with Jack groaning before looking over and to his shock, he felt something touching his lips. Specifically, Rainbow Dash’s lips. Ever since the charged at each other, they landed on top of one another and had their lips touched each other.

“AHHHH!” The two screamed in shock, immediately getting off of each other with horrified looks.

“What the hell Skittles?!” Jack yelled out.

“You tell me why my lips touched yours! Ugh!” Rainbow stuck out her tongue and tried rubbing it to get rid of his germs. “I swear! I think I touched some of your sweat with my mouth! Blah!”

“Shut it!” Jack hissed angrily. “You kissed me!”

“Well I told you to not keep on fighting me in this jousting match!” Rainbow shouted.

“Well maybe you should have stopped as well!” Jack retorted.

“That doesn’t make any sense fatty!”

“You make no sense, Skittles!”

The two began bickering at each other while the others sighed and sweat-dropped.

“There they go again…” Kaede smiled awkwardly. “You know, seeing these two like this makes me think they’re a couple.”

“You aren’t far off there.” Applejack nodded before noticing one of the Crystal Ponies looking over at the Crystal Heart. “Whoa nelly! Be right back!”

Applejack ran over and went to stopped the Crystal Ponies from looking over at the fake Crystal Heart. 

“Oh man, these guys are really persistent onto wanting to see it.” Kaede muttered, forming a worried look. 

“Why is that?” Carrie asked curiously.

“Well they haven’t seen the Crystal Heart for years, Carrie darling, so I guess they really do wanna see it.” Rarity suggested. “So they’re really so persistent, almost like those two.”

They looked back and saw Jack and Rainbow Dash kept arguing over and over.

“Yeah.” Kaede sighed, placing a hand on her head. “Though, I wonder how the others are doing.”

“Me too…I hope big brother will do alright.” Carrie sighed. “But I’m more worried on Jamie.”

“Don’t worry you guys! Jamie can do it!” Pinkie grinned.

“But Pinkie, he might be suffering just like Princess Cadance.” Fluttershy reminded, forming a worried look. “What if something happened to him?”

“Jamie’s smart just like Twilight, so I’m sure that he’s doing alright!” Pinkie waved it off while Carrie looks around and noticed that they were missing someone. 

“Huh? Hey, where’s Kodiak?” Carrie asks in worried.

“Kodiak?” Kaede and the others looks around and noticed that they haven’t seen him. “Weird, he was just here a while ago.”

“Well I’m sure that he’s probably around the festival and enjoying it. I mean, what’s the worse can it happen?” Rarity shrugged, but that seemed to make things even worse as they noticed the barrier glitching many times while they saw not that many Crystal Ponies attending the Crystal Faire. 

“Uh oh…Spaghetti-O!” Pinkie exclaimed in shock, putting her hooves on her cheeks and squished them together.

“Huh? What’s going on?” Kaede asked in concern. “Jamie couldn’t be losing control of it, right?!”

“Oh no!” Carrie muttered in fear. “Big brother…big bro Ren….Twilight…please hurry.”

“Everypony just stop!” Applejack shouted, which made the others looked over and saw Applejack struggling to make the other Crystal Ponies go away.

“Jeez, how persistent are these ponies?!” Kaede exclaimed in shock before the gang headed over and stood by her side in order to calm down the scene. “Please! Calm down everyone!”

Meanwhile…

“Oh, so that’s it huh?” Rainbow Dash growled angrily. “You wanna go there, fatty?!”

“Of course I do Skittles! Let’s have another round, one last round where we’ll determined the winner!” Jack yelled out. “And it doesn’t if you won many times, this one will decided or not I win!”

“Yeah! The fate of an entire empire rests on us showing these ponies a good time!” Rainbow Dash grinned cockily. “But don’t back down that easy fatty! I’ve got a reputation to maintain!”

“Well I’m gonna have a new reputation on what everyone’s gonna say, right guys?!” Jack turned to the others, only to find them missing. “Huh? What the?”

“What’s going on over there?” Rainbow Dash wondered, pointing over to where the ‘Crystal Heart’ would be held. 

“Don’t know, but it doesn’t look good.” Jack took off the armor and put the coat back on like a cape. Rainbow Dash discarded the armor off of her body as the two rushed over as Fluttershy kept begging them to leave.

“P-Please everypony, let’s all talk this through calmly. Can we just please calm down a bit?” Fluttershy asked.

“The hell’s going on?” Jack asked, standing near Carrie and Rarity.

“All of the Crystal Ponies wanna see the Crystal Heart.” Carrie answered.

“What?!” Jack exclaimed in shock before turning to the crowd. “Well too bad! Just hold your damn horses and just wait!”

“But we wanna see the Crystal Heart. It’s been so long since we’ve last seen it, and we wanna see if it survived after being kept by King Sombra for so long.” The librarian Crystal Pony stated.

“Yeah! It’s one of our last ruler’s greatest treasure. We want to see it for ourselves! Please!” Another Crystal Pony begged.

“Excuse me, pardon me…but how about we talk this through sometimes later? I made several straw hats that you all might love.”  Rarity takes out a small straw hat and wanted to give it one of the Crystal Ponies, but none of them were interested other than the Crystal Heart.

“We can’t! So you all have to please relax!” Kaede pleaded.

“This is bad….” Applejack muttered. “Twilight, Ren, Mason, you all better hurry. These ponies are mighty curious than a kitty.”

“Meow?” Rosy popped her head out of Kaede’s backpack, overhearing the little expression Applejack made.

Everypony else began murmuring to each other, most of them wondering why are the gang were keeping them from seeing the Crystal Heart.

“Tch…these bastards are upsetting the crap out of me.” Jack growled.

“But I wanna tell them the truth, but we can’t because big brother, Ren, and Twilight told us that they’ll be back with the real Crystal Heart.” Carrie whispered to Pinkie, who nodded before happily replying “Don’t worry! I’m sure hope that time comes soon! Even I can’t keep this party forever!”

“W-well…we can still try.” Kaede remarked, overhearing what she said. “There’s got to be something we can do to make them go away.”

“How about this? I’ll just go over and make them go.” Jack suggested, glaring at the Crystal Ponies which made some of them back away from his glare.

“No! We don’t wanna make them scared, Jack! We need to have them stay happy!” Applejack sternly told him, which made him scoffed.

“You do your thing, and I’ll do mine.” Jack scoffed.

“Well I’m sure I can keep on entertaining them while I still of my Pinkie juice inside of me!” Pinkie grinned, twirling some plates while balancing them on one hoof on top of a ball. Everypony stared at her in surprise, wondering when did she get the time to changed her clothes but decided to let it go because…well, she’s Pinkie Pie.

Unfortunately, she accidentally trips and falls on the ball, dropping the plates till one of them hit the pedestral, causing it to tilt and fall over, making the ‘Crystal heart’ fall and break into many pieces.

“…Oops.” Pinkie muttered sheepishly while the rest of the Crystal Ponies stared in horror upon seeing it break so easily till they realized why.

“T-This isn’t the Crystal Heart.” One of the Crystal Ponies gasped.

“O-of course not!” Kaede chuckled nervously. “I-I mean….the real is just-”

“On its way!” Applejack answered, which made Kaede widened her eyes in horror before exclaiming “I-I was gonna say being polished to buy us some more time!”

“Oops.” Applejack gulped while some of the Crystal Ponies began murmuring to each other in shock.

“Why? Why would you lie to us?” The librarian asked.

“We didn’t even know that it was real! It’s not our fault you idiots couldn’t remember a damn thing all because you’re all scared of some damn pony who enslaved ya all!” Jack scoffed.

“Jack!” Kaede scolded.

“What? I’m just saying what comes to my mind.” Jack huffed.

“But you didn’t need to say it harshly. Big brother would have said something like that in a polite and calm way.” Carrie pointed out, which made Jack scoffed.

“Please, like they could have handle anything.” Jack scratched his butt a bit before glaring harshly at them, which the Crystal Ponies flinched in fear. “Now listen up! Just hold your tails already ‘cause that damn thing is coming! Now shut your mouths up and mind your own businesses, OKAY?!”

The rest of the Crystal Ponies gulped in fear while the gang face-palmed at him while Carrie frowned a bit.

“Jack…you do realize that we’re trying to keep them from being scared.” Kaede sighed.

“Well it could be worse.” Pinkie shrugged till they felt a harsh wind coming towards them as they all turned around and to their shock, many crystals were slowly turning into dark crystals till they saw the face they hoped to never see again.

“I-It’s….it’s him!” A random Crystal Pony shouted before running away in fear while the dark clouds formed into King Sombra’s face, which made the other Crystal Ponis run away in fear.

“Oh no! This is bad!” Kaede exclaimed in shock.

“W-What are we gonna do?” Carrie asked.

“The best way we can do is keep everypony safe from him!” Applejack suggested, which the others nodded in agreement. Suddenly, they noticed something out of the dark clouds as it began forming shadow-like animal monsters.

“EEK! What are those?!” Fluttershy squeaked in fear.

“Hey, aren’t those the same things that attacked Ponyville?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Wait what?!” Jack asked.

“They attacked us while we celebrated Nightmare Night last time before you or the others showed up.” Kaede explained. “But why are they spawning out of Sombra?! Is he doing this?!”

“I don’t know the reason why, but I rather try to stay alive Kaede!” Rarity exclaimed.

“Well good thing we got your back!” Rainbow grinned, pounding her fist into her hoof.

“Yeah…I needed to blow off some steam.” Jack grinned cockily, cracking his knuckles.

“Jack, Dash, are you two gonna be alright?” Carrie asked in concern. Rainbow Dash and Jack looked at her with smirks as the latter replied “Don’t start crying, we got this.”

“Yeah, I’ll help too.” Kaede offered, stepping up.

“What? But how? You don’t even have a weapon.” Rainbow Dash pointed out. Kaede soon realized that she was right. She didn’t even have a weapon to begin with, so where can she get one? Unless…

“Wait!” Kaede ran towards to the nearby bowing arrow booth and grabbed the weapon she needed. Kaede formed a determined and serious look before saying “Alright, I’m ready!”

“Huh? A bow and arrow?” Rarity asked in confusion.

“Wow Kay, I never knew that you can shoot arrows!” Pinkie said in awe.

“Well this will be my third time shooting one, so I guess I’ll still give it a try.” Kaede answered sheepishly before noticing a nearby shadow about to attack a small Crystal Pony filly and their mother, prompting her to pick out an arrow and shoot at the monster, causing it to disperse and disappeared once it gotten shot down.

“Whoa nelly! Now that’s some shot you got there, Kaede!” Applejack praised.

“Heh, nice shot.” Jack grinned before seeing more and more shadow monsters approaching them, much to his annoyance. “Oh great, more of these damn things.”

“No worries! I’ll try and protect Carrie along with the other Crystal Ponies!” Rarity offered.

“Me too! Besides, I-I’m not that good as a fighter…” Fluttershy admitted, blushing a bit in embarrassment.

“No worries Fluttershy, you’re still amazing! Even Rarity since you two are gonna protect me and I’ll protect you both as well!” Carrie smiled brightly. “Because that’s something my big brother would have done for anyone, even Elena.”

“Oh Carrie…” Rarity smiled happily while Fluttershy cooed at the response Carrie gave. “That’s so lovely.”

“Hey loon! Fluttershy! How about less talking and more getting the fudge out of here!” Jack demanded, which earned a huff from Rarity before she began carrying Carrie on her back while Fluttershy flew with them hoping to protect some of the Crystal Ponies.

“You sure we can hurt them? I mean, we only know that Ren can damage them with that Hacking Gun of his, so how could we solve this?” Applejack wondered.

“Well it also worked with Mason’s staff, and one of those arrows I shot, so it might work.” Kaede shrugged, preparing another bow as the shadows began approaching them. “But right now, we need to protect this place before they tried to harm the others!”

“Yeah! Yeah! Can we get into the fighting?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Yeah! I’m already getting bored with this damn conversation! Let’s just do this!” Jack exclaimed as one of the shadows tried to attack him, but he punched it away, causing it to disappear. 

“Well alright! Let’s do this!” Rainbow pounded her fist before charging into one of the shadow bear monsters that almost looked like a Ursa Minor as she went straight through its body, causing it to disperse before the others began fighting off the rest of the shadow monsters.

“Ren…Twilight…Mason…please hurry! I’m not sure if we can hold them and King Sombra for this long!” Kaede thought before firing another arrow straight towards another shadow raccoon monster.



Later
Ren’s POV

“Huh?” Weird…I could have sworn that someone was thinking about me. Huh…weird.

“These stairs are impossible…” Mason sighed. “I wouldn’t be surprise if Sombra created this as another trap?”

“You mean, like…infinity stairs that goes on forever and ever?” I suggested, which he nodded.

“Exactly my point.” Mason nodded. “If that was the case, then it would be a problem for us.”

“Wait, hold on.” Twilight halted. “I got an idea!”

“Great, what is it?” I asked curiously.

“Hold on to me.” Me and Mason looked at each other with raised brows before shrugging as we held onto Twilight before her horn started glowing before she did something and in a few seconds, we all felt the air turning before we saw everything turned upside down. I mean, we didn’t feel the steps but the back of them. “There! A lot better!”

“W-Whoa…what did you do?” I asked.

“Well, I managed to use a zero gravity spell to make the stairs turned upside down for us to easily skate through!” Twilight explained happily. “Now hang on tight you guys!”

“O-Okay!” I nodded.

“Just be careful Twilight! I wouldn’t want your brother to worry what happens if you do something so drastic like this.” Mason warned with a cautious look. 

“Relax Mason! I’ll be fine! Now let’s…go!” Twilight began skating through around the stairs while we followed her, skating down while I held onto her for dear life along with Mason who was skating down behind her just in case she might tripped and keeps an eye from behind.

“Whoa! W-We’re really going way too fast!” I exclaimed in shock and joy.

“Whoooooooooahahaha!” Twilight laughed with an excited smile on her face. “I actually studied gravity spells, thinking it might be on my test! Turns out I was prepared for this! Woooo-hoo!”

“Well I’m glad that you’re enjoying this!” Mason smirked before we felt a loud explosion. “What in the?!”

“What was that?!” I exclaimed before noticing the barrier slightly breaking. 

“Oh no! Jamie is nearly losing control! Oh, I should have known that even with his newfound magic, he wouldn’t been able to control it! After all, he just started using magic the moment those cutie-marks appeared on his cheeks!” Twilight wore a worried look on her face before she scrunched her face into a look that showed her serious side. 

Well technically…she always takes things serious.

“Well let’s get go!” Me and Mason nodded before we began reaching to the end and finally arrived to the top of the tower.

“Phew, we made it!” I chuckled with a smirk on my face before getting off of Twilight and looked around the place. Hmm…looks like any normal looking tower. Now where’s that…

“The Crystal Heart…” Huh? Oh right! The Crystal Heart! I looked at where Mason and Twilight were gazing at and saw the Crystal Heart, shining brightly as ever around a pedestal. Okay, so how in Equestria did I miss that?

“Strange…it’s just floating there peacefully.” Mason thought aloud. “Something’s not right…”

“I’ll say…” I nodded in agreement before noticing something that caught my eye. That shadow…I swear that I just saw that! Or is it just my imagination? No…it can’t be. So what was that?

Beware…of the shadow…that shadow…that hurts your friends…is a trick…

Huh? What the?! Ugh…my head…I swear, I’ve been getting some headaches the moment I arrived to this place. 

“Twilight, wait!” Huh? I looked over at Mason, who was trying to call Twilight with a stern look before gazing over and saw her attempting to take the Crystal Heart.

“Mason, we have no time! Right now, we need to get the Crystal Heart to the others before its too late!” Twilight reminded, but the moment she made contact with the Crystal Heart…

We all heard a petrifying alarm. It was so loud that it made my ears nearly destroyed. However, we saw giant crystals surrounding where Twilight was as she immediately threw the Crystal Heart away from where she stood as it landed straight into my arms.

“W-What the?!” I exclaimed in shock as the alarm kept bleeping off.

“Twilight!” Mason called as we ran towards her and attempted to break those sharp crystals out of there.

“Hold on!” I quickly took out my Hacking Gun and aimed it directly at the sharp crystals and shot ‘Burn’ multiple times. But no matter what, there was no scratch. “Whoa…what is this thing made out?!”

“Hold on, let me try something!” We heard Twilight called before we saw her teleporting right in front of us. She held a smug grin till more crystals surrounded her. 

“Well that was unfortunate…” I sweat-dropped. 

“Ngh! It’s no use! Wait, where’s the Crystal Heart you guys?!” Twilight called for us.

“We have it! It’s in Ren’s hands!” Mason called before taking out his bamboo pole. “Now hold on! We’ll be able to break you out of there!”

“No! Don’t!” Twilight yelled. “It’s no use breaking me out! Ugh, you both can move, just not towards me! How could I have been so foolish? I was just so eager to get it! Then…ugh!”

“You have to get out of there, Twilight!” I yelled out. “You have to be the one who brings the Heart to Princess Cadance! If you don’t, you’ll fail Celeste’s test!”

“King Sombra is already attacking the Empire! He could reach the Crystal Ponies at any moment…reach Princess Cadance, my brother, my friends. There may not be enough time for me to find a way to escape!”

We heard the crystals slowly began to come towards her and crush her.

“No, we won’t leave you like this!” Mason stated sternly.

“No, it can’t be me! It has to be you two to bring the Crystal Heart to the Faire!”

“Us?” I asked incredulous. “But Twilight-”

“Go!”

“But-”

“Goooo!” 

“Ugh…it’s no use.” I sighed before looking down at the Crystal Heart. “What can we do Mason?”

“Ngh…I…don’t know but I don’t want to leave her like this. I have to remain to her side and not let anything happen to her, and yet…this happens…” Mason clenched his fists angrily with a frustrated look on his face.

“Mason, it’s not your fault.” I shook my head and smiled at him. “Maybe you can still be loyal to her if you do what she said!”

“Huh?” Mason looked at me with a bewildered look as I continued “Being loyal doesn’t mean that you have to stay by the person’s side closely like that, but to fulfill the promises we made to them and that’s what we’re gonna do!”

“Ah…” Mason stared at me in surprise before smiling softly and nodded. “Alright! Let us go before it’s too late.”

I nodded as the two of us prepared to take our leave till…

“Ngh!”

“Ah!” W-What the?! What’s happening to us?! W-We can’t move…

“Ahh…it’s such a shame. You two were really so close on trying to save this empire from me.” H-Huh? Who said that? 

Soon, Mason and I slowly turned our heads and saw our shadows slowly rising out of the ground as it revealed to be a pony with red eyes with deep scarlet pupils, his mane was black, his goat was dark gray, and he wore a coat that looked like a king would wear. Wait…that can’t be…!

“Greetings humans, the pleasure is all mine.” I slowly widened my eyes in shock along with Mason’s as we both slowly realized who that was. 

“Y-You’re…!” He walked over to us and swiped the Crystal Heart from my hands by levitating it away from me. 

“Ahh…so you have heard of me? Well, the pleasure’s all mine. You may call me…King Sombra, ruler of the Crystal Empire.” King Sombra laughed as me and Mason tried to break out of our positions, but whatever he’s doing is making us hold us frozen.

“You two must feel uncomfortable since I’m controlling both of your shadows to hold you back.” King Sombra grinned at us darkly as I looked down and saw a pair of hands holding my feet. “Now with the Crystal Heart in my hooves…I shall not only retake the Crystal Empire, but all of Equestria as well!”

“Y-You monster…you…how did you?!” Mason demanded, only to receive a laughter from him.

“Why it wasn’t so hard, really. All I did was hide in your shadows in plain sight and swarm around the place to try and remember where I last put away my lovely Crystal Heart. But now…I guess it’s time to use it’s power for his purposes.”

“H-Hold on…!” I called, trying my best to break free of his control. “W-Wait a minute…if you’re here…then…who’s attacking the Empire then?!”

“Oh…you’re curious, aren’t you?” King Sombra smirked. “Well…if you must know, he’s someone that you’ve all would have known…or possibly remembered.”

“W-What?” What is he talking about? Who’s he talking about?



Meanwhile

Back at the Crystal Faire, the whole group of Crystal Ponies were being hidden away in many booths away from the shadow monsters that were coming out of the dark cloud.

Kaede was firing a bunch of arrows to one or more monsters that tried to hurt a nearby filly. 

“Go on! Hide!” Kaede pleaded, which the filly did without hesitation.

Applejack used a lasso to wrapped around a bear-like shadow’s feet before tugging it, causing it fall down before she ran away and apple-bucked it into next week before it dispersed.

Rainbow Dash blasted her way through the dark clouds and destroyed some of the shadow monsters, along with Jack who was crushing them with his punches and body slam, along with some of his grappling moves.

“Damn! Just how many of these things are there?!” Jack exclaimed.

“As long as that dark foggy cloud keeps getting in the way, we won’t make any progress!” Applejack yelled out before apple-bucking another shadow-like monster.

“Oh yeah?! I’ll take care of this!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed before flying straight in the air towards the dark cloud. 

“Rainbow Dash! Wait!” Kaede called, but it was too late as Rainbow Dash started punching and kicking the clouds away till they shot straight towards her, pushing her away as she begins to crash land straight towards them.

“WAAAHHHHH!” She screamed in agony.

“Somebody catch her!” Kaede called.

“Hold on Skittles!” Jack races over and manages to catch her, despite being crashed into the ground with her. He lets out a grunt before slowly getting up and helping her up.

“U-Ugh…h-huh? Fatty?” Rainbow Dash muttered.

“H-hey…don’t worry…never leave someone behind as I always say…” Jack weakly smiled, putting her down and brushing himself off. “Heh, I may have been hurt but I don’t care…but next time, try not to do anything stupid.”

“Oh please, that would been the first thing you would have done.” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, which made him blush.

“F-Fair point…”

“Man…is this guy persistent or what?” Kaede groaned before glaring at the giant dark cloud that was showing off evil eyes of the supposed King Sombra. “Ugh, what’s your deal Sombra!? Why won’t just stop?!”

“Stop?” A voice spoken up from the clouds, but this one was slightly different from the last time they heard it when they were escaping from its clutches. “Why stop the fun Kaede Ross? We are just beginning.”

“H-Huh?” Kaede asked in surprise. “W-who said that?!”

The two humans and two ponies looked over and saw the shadow demons forming around the cloud as a figure slowly makes his way, his mask shining bright red through the visor.

“What the hell is this?! Some cheap knock-off of the terminator or something?!” Jack scoffed, but he was relatively shocked from what he was seeing.

“I’ll say…just what is he?!” Applejack demanded.

“Well I don’t know who, but he’s not King Sombra! That’s for sure!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed before flying straight towards Void till a shadow hits her as she flies and crash lands onto the ground.

“Skittles! You alright?!” Jack asked, running towards her as well as the others. 

“Ohh…where am I? W-what? What am I doing back in Ponyville?” Rainbow Dash asked herself, slowly getting up with green eyes. “W-W-Why…is everyone…No! No! What happened?!”

“S-Skittles?!” Jack asked in shock, holding onto her as she began flinching around.

“W-What’s happening to her?!” Kaede asked.

“That varmint must’ve put a spell on her!” Applejack glared at the mysterious individual. “Who are ya anyway?! You aren’t King Sombra!”

“Mmhmhmhmhm! Indeed I’m not! You all may call me…Void.” Void introduced himself with a bow. “That is all you all shall get from me.”

“What?” Kaede asked before flinching, along with Jack as they began experiencing some massive headaches. “Ugh…my head…what’s happening?”

“Ngh! What the hell?!” Jack grunted, holding his one hand onto his head. “Ugh…seriously?! Right now?!”

“Mm….it would seem that you all are having a slight chance of remembering. Well, it would make sense since you all don’t know me…yet.” Void chuckled, folding his arms as his shadows began manifesting into something huge.

“W-What are you…talking about…?” Kaede asked.

“Well…it doesn’t matter young Kaede Ross. Now…it is time that I bring you all into true hope and end all of your pain, misery, and despair.” Void clenches his fist as his shadows formed together and created into a giant shadow monster that resembles an Ursa Major.

“W-what?!” Kaede gasped, her headache is slowly dying out. “Look at the size of that thing!”

“Ngh…dammit!” Jack hissed, looking at the size of that thing before looking down at Rainbow Dash, seeing her flinch around with her eyes beaming green from the spell Void cast on her.

“N-No! Why didn’t I do anything?! Why them?!” Rainbow Dash cried out. “I-I….AHHHH!”

“Calm the hell down, Skittles!” Jack yelled out, but she kept screaming and squirming around before glaring at Void. “You bastard! What the hell did you do to her?!”

“I given her ‘hope’. She now wishes her hope to become stronger.” Void explained.

“What hope?! You’ve given her some sort of bullcrap!” Jack exclaimed till the shadow Ursa Major let out a mighty roar straight at Jack’s face. “Ngh! Damn beast!”

“Jack! Get Rainbow Dash out of here! Kaede and I got this!” Applejack offered.

“What?!” Jack asked in shock.

“She’s right! It’s the least I can do to prove you guys that I can help!” Kaede held the bow and arrow in her hands. “Just hurry and take Rainbow Dash back with the others for safety and try to snap her out of that!”

“Tch…! I ain’t gonna leave your punk flanks behind!” Jack yelled out till he saw the Shadow Ursa Major tried to attack him till Kaede shot it with an arrow, causing it to yell in agony.

“Just go! We got this!” Kaede pleaded.

“….Heh, you got guts girl! I love it!” Jack smirked before he ran away, carrying the panicking Rainbow Dash in her arms while leaving Kaede and Applejack by themselves.

“You know, you could have gone too Kaede.” Applejack remarked, but Kaede shook her head and smiled at her friend.

“Well…I wanna help all of you! There’s no need to worry! Let’s go!” Kaede smirked, raising her bow in front of the shadow Ursa Major while Applejack sighed and shook her head before smiling at her.

“Well alright…let’s do it!” Applejack grinned as the two prepared to fight against the thing while Void floated around the dark clouds with an amused chuckle.

“Mwahahahahaha! Yes! Let me witness this and we can truly see ‘true hope’!” Void laughed manically as the Shadow Ursa Major lets out a mighty roar towards the two as they prepared to fight against this new mysterious foe.

“I don’t know who you are or how do you know my name…” Kaede raises her bow and prepares to fire her arrow, not noticing that the arrow was glowing a bit. “But I won’t let you let you harm any of my friends or these innocent ponies!”

She fired her arrow at it made its way towards the beast as it let out a roar and prepared to fight back.



Meanwhile…
Ren’s POV

“Ngh…I can’t believe it…so that’s someone else?!” I asked in shock.

“That indeed and you all fell for it!” King Sombra laughs as a dark portal appeared behind him. “Now if you excuse me…it is time if I head down and release the rest of my kind.”

“W-What?” I asked in confusion.

“No! Let go of the Crystal Heart this instant!” Mason demanded, trying to move his body but it was still frozen.

“Sorry…but I got some business attend. Father wouldn’t want me waiting.” King Sombra laughs, holding the Crystal Heart in his magic aura as I tried to get him out of my sudden frozen prison, trying to focus as hard as I can.

Come on! Come on! I can’t let Twilight or anyone down! I made a promise to them and we all intend to protect the Crystal Empire for all of my friends!

Suddenly, I felt something out of me as a great flash of light appeared out of nowhere, blinding all of us. Ugh…this feeling…I felt this before…haven’t I? I swear that I felt something like this before…

The light…within….you…still…lives…on…you have…the power…to save…me…

“What?” I mumbled before opening my eyes, finding Mason still blinded by the light along with King Sombra. I looked around and saw myself moving now before seeing King Sombra and the Crystal Heart still in his hands.

“AH!? What is this?! He told me that your powers were already gone! Could it be…that it’s slowly being healed right now?!” King Sombra hissed. 

“I don’t know what you’re talking, but now isn’t time time!” I exclaimed, holding onto my Hacking Gun. “Sombra…give us back the Crystal Heart! We don’t have to do this! I don’t want to hurt you.”

“Funny…neither do I, but I guess we can’t have things. Now die!” King Sombra fired a dark green magic beam which I side-rolled out of the way and shot a ‘Break’ bullet at him, knocking him away as he dropped the Crystal Heart on the ground. 

I immediately saw this as my chance and ran over to it before grabbing it back into my hands.

“Ah-ha! I got it!” I smiled brightly upon having the Crystal Heart till I was met with an angry Sombra as he immediately tackled me straight into the dark portal. “OOF!”

“R-Ren!” I heard Mason called over as me and Sombra went through what felt like…death. I don’t know what you call it, but it’s making me feel I’ve been dead before…ugh….man, I’ve been having a lot of headaches before. 

Suddenly, I felt the ground hitting me as I let out an groan before slowly getting up, and saw Sombra on top of me, much to my surprise. 

“Ugh…you!” King Sombra hissed, getting off of me and glared towards me with his horn glowing dark green in a benevolent way. “Where’s my Crystal Heart?!”

“C-Calm down! Look, we don’t have to keep on-” However, before I could say anything, I saw that the Crystal Heart was gone. What the?! But…it was straight into my hands! I swear. “…What the?! I-It’s gone!”

“WHAT?! By who?!” King Sombra demanded before he glared at me darkly. “You have five seconds mere human or else I’ll kill you!”

“W-Wait! Calm down!” I said, getting up and holding back my Megaphone Hacking Gun. “Please…we don’t have to fight.”

“Too bad…I’m still going to destroy you-Huh?” What? What’s he looking at? I turned around and saw a red-cloaked pony walking up the steps of this dark crystal-like place and I saw that pony carrying…

“The Crystal Heart!” I gasped, alerting the pony before it began running upwards the stairs. “Hey! Come back here!”

“Give me back my CRYSTAL HEART!” King Sombra screamed, his voice echoing throughout the halls as the both of us tried to catch them till we saw some shadow-like creatures popping out of the corners of the halls.

“Oh crap!” I cursed myself before Sombra turned to the demons and shouted “Silence! What is the meaning of this?!”

The shadows didn’t respond as it jumped towards him, much to his shock. I quickly took out my Hacking Gun before using ‘Break’ bullets at them, knocking them out before they dispersed into nothingness.

“What?! But…Father told me that the shadows would respond to me no matter what they’re doing! What is the meaning of this?!” King Sombra demanded.

“What?” I asked in confusion before seeing more shadows appearing behind us. “Oh crap! We need to get out of here!”

“What?! I will not run away that easily from these mere shadows!” King Sombra scoffed, but I shook my head and said “But we can’t! There’s too many of them!”

“Do you know who you’re talking to?!” King Sombra growled angrily at me. “I am King Sombra! The Pony Whose Heart Is As Dark As Night!”

“Well actually, I only just know you.” I pointed out, much to his irritation.

“Doesn’t matter! What matters is that I will not run away in a fight!” Crap! He’s too stubborn to listen to anything! Hmm…there’s gotta be a way to convince him…Wait! I got one!

“But if you waste your time around here, then what about the Crystal Heart?” I reminded. “That figure could be doing whatever he is with that Crystal Heart right now, but right now! We need to hurry before it’s too late! Come on Sombra, I mean, maybe you see me as a enemy, but I’m not gonna kill you!”

“Tch!” King Sombra scoffed, causing me to sweat-drop a little. Jeez, just what’s his problem? “…Fine, but you owe me!”

“T-Thanks!” I smiled a bit before shooting down a nearby shadow with ‘Knock-Back’ before we began running away straight through the corridor. We kept running till we saw the figure walking into the shadows.

“There he goes!” I called, pointing at the end of the hall.

“I know that human! Now shut up!” King Sombra scoffed before the two began running towards the hall till he was grabbed by a shadow from the leg. “Ugh! You ignorant little! Let go of me!”

“Sombra!” I called before taking out my Hacking Gun and taking it down, destroying the Shadow in the process, much to Sombra’s shock and bewilderment.

“H-Human…you saved me? But-”

“Umm…not to be rude to you, but maybe you can tell me till after we escaped from those crazy shadows!” I suggested, grabbing his hoof and immediately pulled him away from those crazy things as we rushed towards the shadow-like end of the hall before running through it and managing to make it to the other side, finding ourselves in some weird room with stairs leading somewhere.

“Huh? Where are we?” I wondered.

“Who cares?!” King Sombra scoffed before glaring at me. “And frankly, I don’t care for you to save me. I would have done it myself, human.”

“Well I was just helping you dude. There was no way I would leave you behind like that.” My response seemed to make him gone a bit shaken by what I said. 

“W-What? And why’s that? Not after from what I’ve done?” King Sombra asked. “Have you never heard the tales of me conquering the empire? Anypony, even a mere human with half a brain, would know that I’m the most powerful villain in all of Equestria!”

“I know…but I feel as though there’s more to than just that. I mean, where did you come from and why did you conquer the Crystal Empire back then?” I questioned. “Look, I know this might not be none of my business to you, but I don’t want to fight you. I swear.”

“….You are definitely idiotic.” King Sombra replied bluntly. “I don’t want your pity and I have my rights. I don’t need anyone.”

“Well…alright. But I won’t attack you if you don’t attack me, how about that?” I suggested.

“Just stay out of my way, human. It’s time for me to retrieve my Crystal Heart to conquer all of Equestria!” King Sombra barked up another laughter before making his way towards the stairs.

“H-Hey wait!” I called, chasing after him before we finally made our way through the stairs and arrived to rather another strange room. This room had a large door with a chain lock with a peculiar lock on it, but we weren’t alone. We not saw just the red cloaked pony figure holding the Crystal Heart in their hooves, but we also saw a couple of my old friends.

“Rantaro? Nicole? Kodiak? Spike? Gizmo?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“Ren?!” Nicole looked at me, a bit bewildered to see me. 

“Oh great, and just when we needed rescuing, you show up.” Rantaro grumbled. “Oh well…just hurry before that crazy mare tries to unlock that door.”


“What? Why?” I asked. “W-Who is she?”

“Ren!” Kodi raced over and began licking my face, causing me to laugh. “There you are! I thought I would never see you again!”

“Kodi! Stop! That tickles!” I laughed while the others walked over to me.

“Ren, what are you doing here?!” Spike asked before glancing at King Sombra as he walked past us and went to confront the red cloaked figure. “With King Sombra of all ponies?! Are you insane?!”

“Ren…something’s happening up there right?” Nicole asked, which I nodded.

“Yeah, and I tried to grab the Crystal Heart from King Sombra, and we ended up here where you guys are.” I explained. “So what is this place? Why does it look like Tartarus?”

“What? This place? It doesn’t even look like Tartarus.” Spike raised a brow of confusion.

“No, that kind of ‘Tartarus’ I mean. I mean the one from Persona 3. I mean, it nearly looks like the place.” I clarified. “All we need is that giant clock entrance that leads us to the dungeon and we’re sorta in.”

“…Huh?” Spike asked in confusion.

“Ignoring that, care to share what’s up?” Rantaro asked with a rather annoyed look. “You guys now just learned about the Crystal Heart?”

“Yeah, but-”

“You guys just realized that it was real and instead used a made-up one, right?” Nicole guessed, which took me out by surprise before nodding. “I see…but it looks like we have no time left. We have to stop her!”

“What do you mean?” I asked in confusion.

“ENOUGH!” Whoa! That nearly caught me off guard! We immediately turned around and saw King Sombra confronting the red cloaked pony.

“I recognize you! You are that foolish fool that tried to intercept me before managing to hold back to allow that foolish human and insolent pony escape before I transformed into a small shadow to hide into their shadows before they could enter the Crystal Empire!” King Sombra glared angrily at them. “But now is not the time! Hand over the Crystal Heart or else!”

However, the figured remained silent, much to Sombra’s anger.

“Are you deaf?! GIVE ME THE CRYSTAL HEART!” King Sombra screamed.

“She won’t listen. She’s under their control.” Rantaro answered.

“She?” I asked in confusion.

“…..” The figure remained silent before slowly uncovering her hood, revealing herself which seemed to made King Sombra widened his eyes in horror as I saw his face slowly turning pale.

“W-What is this…? N-No…you…I thought…it’s not possible…” What? Why is he acting like that? I never thought I would hear him trembling like that before.

“So…you do recognized her, eh?” Rantaro sighed. “And I thought that the big bad king like you would instantly forget his own sanity the moment he turned to the darkness.”

“What? What are you guys talking about?” I asked in confusion. “And who that mare? She’s…kinda creepy with that blank look of hers.”

“Ren…I sensed that you must know that King Sombra wasn’t always evil, huh?” Nicole guessed, which caught me by surprise a bit before nodding. “Well…you were right on the key. But it seemed like they influenced his mind just like they planned when he first arrived to the Crystal Empire.”

“What? What are you guys talking about?” I asked in confusion.

“Jeez, and I thought you had some sort of hidden intelligence inside ya. Use your head.” Rantaro sighed. “King Sombra isn’t a pony…he’s an Umbrum.”

“An Umbrum?!” I exclaimed in shock. King Sombra’s…an Umbrum?! But I thought he was a unicorn because…well, he has the horn and all that! “Hold on, how do you guys know about that?!”

“You don’t have to lie. I knew that you were hiding something the moment we headed into the train towards here.” Nicole explained. “But we gotten a better view on them when she took us.”

“She? You mean that mare?” I asked. “Who is she again?”

“Don’t know, but she’s pretty scary and hasn’t said a word when me, Spike, and Gizmo found them!” Kodi explained. 

“Well…if ya want to know, why not ask your shadow unicorn friend over there?” Rantaro shrugged. “You know…to save the suspense. I’m already wasting my time explaining it to a kid like you.”

Is…that a reason? Well…I guess I won’t mind.

“Hey Sombra…do you know this mare?” I asked in confusion, but I saw the horrified look on his face. Wow, never thought that he could even show that kind of face despite his crazy yet arrogant look.

“……No….Hope…?” Huh? Hope? 

I slowly turned to the mare who was holding onto the Crystal Heart in her hooves as she gave us a blank look.

“…Hope….it can’t be…” King Sombra widened his eyes in shock as we all stared at the red cloaked pony. So…is her name ‘Hope’? What a weird name, but then again, everyone around here has weird yet funny names.

“Watch out…!” Nicole warned, narrowing her eyes sternly towards the pony.

“What? Why?” I asked in concern and bewilderment.

“That pony…she’s under their control.”

“They’re…control?” I asked in confusion.

“You don’t get it, do ya? Did you even listen to our conversation?” Rantaro asked with an annoyed look. “She’s being control by the leader of the Umbrum Army.”

I widened my eyes in shock before turning back at the said pony, who was giving us a blank look still, unfazed by anything.

“No way…” I sputtered out.

“Radiant…Hope…” King Sombra muttered.

I don’t get this…how does King Sombra know her? And…what does she mean under the control of the Umbrum? What’s been going on?!…Is anyone gonna answer my questions as I keep rambling on?!

To Be Continued
> Chapter 61 - The Crystal Empire Part 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Previously on My Little Pony: Ren’s Adventures In Equestria

“This is bad!”

“Dammit! Now what do we do?!”

“When you put it like that, it really does feels like its the end, huh?”

“Jamie! You have to create a new shield for Cadance’s place!”

“Huh?! You can what?!

“Be a hero…”

“Well…I did Archery once a while back, but haven’t done it in a while.”

“So looks like we remembered the same thing…”

“ALRIGHT! YOU ARE SO ON FATTY!”

“BRING IT SKITTLES!”

“N-No…that’s not what I meant.”

“I knew it! It’s really one of the crystals that Celeste was talking about!”

“What the? A door? A door to what though?”

“Well…its best if we don’t complain and move on. What do you say…leader?”

“Yeah! The fate of an entire empire rests on us showing these ponies a good time!”

“Ahh…it’s such a shame. You two were really close on trying to save this empire from me.”

“…Heh, you got guts girl! I love it!”

“Mwahahahahaha! Yes! Let me witness this and we can truly see ‘true hope’!”

“ENOUGH!”

“Watch out! That pony…she’s under their control.”

“You don’t get it, do ya? Did you even listen to our conversation? She’s being controlled by the leader of the Umbrum Army.”

“Radiant…Hope…”



My Little Pony: Ren’s Adventures In Equestria

“……..”

….How long have I been out? And…why am I still asleep?…Mm, I guess I have no choice but to wake up. Either way, I think the paralysis is slowly going away then. I slowly began opening my eyes to find myself leaning against some hard wall before seeing a pony who had their back turned to us as she was examining…some sort of door.

“…What are you doing?” I questioned, trying to get up but couldn’t before looking down and saw my arms and legs were tied up with some sort of rope, but it was made out of crystals. 

“…So you’re finally awake, huh?” The figure called, which I was able to identify as female. “I was wondering how long you guys would wake up. To be honest, this wasn’t what I expected to happen. Also…I didn’t want to capture you, but you all took that photo and my book.”

“Ah…so those items do belong to you.” I hummed in thought, sitting comfortably down on the chair before looking at my hands. “But may I ask why did you bring us here?”

“…I’m not much of a killer.” Hm? Her voice…that sounded hesitant for a second there. “But anyway, just keep quiet and let me try to figure a way to break this door.”

“U-Ugh…” Hm? Oh…he’s awake. Rantaro slowly begins to wake up and finds himself tied up.

“Oh great…first I get paralyzed and now I’m a hostage.” Rantaro rolled his eyes, completely unfazed by this. Though I saw through his eyes was he was already surprised.

“So you’re awake too, huh?” The figure stared at us for a while before looking away, continued to examine the door. “Well as long as you guys remain quiet and allow me to find a way to break free of this door, then maybe I can let you go.”

“You don’t know sound so sure of yourself.” Rantaro grinned slyly. “What’s wrong? You can tell us…and maybe we can tell you about us.”

“That you’re humans and you’ve been living here for sometime, right?” Ah…so she’s aware of us.

“I take it that you know this like how everypony else around here knows?” I guessed, staring at her with narrow eyes. “Or…did you learned this from when you were eavesdropping on either us or someone else?”

The figure stares at me for a while before shaking her head and replied “I learned from either way.”

“Either way, huh…” Rantaro hummed before noticing me. “Oh, so you’re awake?”

“You’re now just noticing me?” I asked with a stern look before sighing “You know what? Just never mind…”

“Yeah yeah, whatever.” Rantaro rolled his eyes. “So…how long we’ve been out?”

“I just woke up before you did.” I answered before turning to the red cloaked figure. “So…what is going on here? Where are we?”

“Can’t tell you.” Hmm…so she wants to keep this a secret, huh? I see…

“You can’t tell us…is that so? Then that means that this door is very important to you, huh?” I narrowed my eyes at her with suspicion. “This door leads to somewhere, right?”


“….So I guess there weren’t kidding that you were amazing with your analytical psychology skills.” Huh? So she knows about that too, huh? Hmm…I’ll keep a note of that.

“So…I was wondering who you were.” Rantaro grinned nonchalantly. “Since we’re together as your hostages and you as our kidnapper, would you mind getting along?”

“No.” She answered, glancing at him with a slight glare.

“Really? Not even to this door? Heh heh, I see…” Rantaro smirks at her. “Some hostage negotiator I am.”

“It doesn’t matter. What matters is trying to find a way to get the Crystal Heart and open the door to allow the Umbrum Army come out.”

Hm? Umbrum Army? Hmmm…

“Umbrums?” I spoken, gaining her attention. “Do you mean something is beyond that door?”

“…..Do I really have to tell you? What’s in it for me?” Hmm…So she tends to hold back information. I could try to understand her if I read her face, but that’ll be difficult due to the hoodie…

“Well I’m afraid that you need to tell us, Radiant Hope.” Rantaro grinned, causing me to blink in surprise while we heard the red cloaked figure gasped. “Oh? Did I catch you both off-guard? Well…I guess it makes sense since Ms. Psychologist can’t easily read people who conceal themselves or even you can’t fool me.”

“….” The red cloaked figure looked away before asking “So…how did you figure that out?”

“I saw your eyes.” Rantaro answered with a solemn look. “The eye color of that pony in the photo we found and when I saw your eye color when I was about to black out.” 

“Anypony else could have the same eye color as me.” She retorted, which made Rantaro shook his head and gave her a smirk. 

“Really? Then what about your face? I don’t think anyone could fight against that.” Rantaro grinned, causing her to froze before turning away from me. “So…got nothing to say.”

“….So you guys really know, huh?” So she admits it…I guess I can thank Rantaro for figuring that out, but right now isn’t the right time.

“So…” I spoken up, narrowing my eyes at her. “You’re Radiant Hope, aren’t you?”

“…Yes, I am.” Hm…her tone is filled with sorrow and regret. “My name is Radiant Hope, but I’m sure nopony around Equestria knows who I am, and anypony here in the Crystal Empire don’t remember much. Though…that doesn’t bother me. Right now…I want to go and get the Crystal Heart to open this door.”

“The Crystal Heart?” I questioned, but all I received was silence. She’s pretty difficult, but I’m sure I can get her to talk. “You know, being silent isn’t going to help. While I may not read you clearly, I can tell your tone is filled with grief, sadness, and regret. You seemed to have something that’s bothering you, right?”

“….Well….you aren’t wrong there.” She nodded. “Right now, I’m trying to bring him back if I released the Umbrum Army so that the leader can bring Sombra back to his physical form.”

“You mean King Sombra, right?” Rantaro guessed. “Ooh, so you really are Radiant Hope.”

“Why would I lie about my own name?” She asked, her tone showing irritation.

“For many reasons.” Rantaro replied. “So…this door leads to these ‘Umbrum’, right?”

“That’s right.” She nodded. “The Umbrum Army are these friendly creatures that’s been trapped in their own world for a long time.”

“Been trapped?” I questioned. “Did something happened to them to make them get trapped inside there?”

“Apparently, the ruler of this place locked them away for a slight misunderstanding, but I know for sure that they can help Sombra.” Radiant Hope explained. 

“Ah…” I smiled softly, which Rantaro and Hope noticed.

“Huh? What is it?” She asked in concern.

“You seemed to be feeling happy about it.” I stated. “It seems that your personality is surfacing now. You’re trying to hide how you feel from acting all anonymous.”

“Hmm….” Radiant Hope hummed in thought. “Your skills on reading people are quite amazing…”

She soon uncovered her hoodie, revealing her face as a purple coated pony with light blue azure mane that nearly looked like it was crystallized.

“Well you see…I’m trying to do my best to find the Crystal Heart to open this door to release the Umbrum Army. That way…they can come back and help Sombra bring back to his physical form.” Radiant Hope explained.

“You seemed pretty committed, and you’re telling us that these ‘Umbrum’ can help him?” Rantaro questioned. “How do you know that they can help?”

“Because they and Sombra are from the same kind.” 

…The same kind? But we saw him as a dark figure, but…these Umbrum she states are said to be friendly creatures. Something doesn’t seem to be adding up. 

“Hm?” Rantaro raises a brow at him. 

“Yes, you see…I’m sure you read pretty much everything from my diary, but it’s the truth. Sombra and I were best friends.” Radiant Hope sighed, gazing at the door with a sadden look. 

“If I remember correctly, that book states about his life and such here in the Crystal Empire.” I closed my thoughts and hummed in thought. “So all of that stuff in that book was written by you?”

“Yes.” Radiant Hope nodded. “Well since you two are gonna keep bugging me with questions, it’s best if I just answered them to shut you guys up. Besides, you two are tied up at the moment, so I don’t see why not.”

“Yeah, we noticed.” Rantaro scoffed sarcastically. “So…besides, we can skip a few things considering that we already read your little diary.”

“Wait…” I called, turning to him with a stern and solemn look. “There are a few things I need to clarify.”

“Yeah, like what?” He asked.

“Like for instance, why are you still here?” I questioned, turning to Radiant Hope. “That book we read….it seemed to been written for a very long time, and judging by how much dust was on it, it seemed to be over a year or much more.”

“So you got to know about it.” Radiant Hope sighed. “Well…you aren’t wrong there…You see…I’m a hundred years old.”

I let out a small gasp and nearly became surprised by this. The fact to learn that somepony here can live this long is quite impossible. How is this possible?

“Hm…so you lived for that long? Is it because of the curse surrounded around the Crystal Empire?” Rantaro asked.

“No…it’s more like because I lived with the Umbrum Army in their world for a very long time. Time is very different there than here in Equestria.” Radiant Hope remarked.

“Really?” Rantaro questioned while I stared at her with a slightly raised brow. Hmm…she doesn’t seem to be lying, but why does it feel feel so weird and strange at the same time?

“Yes. I grew up with them for so long when the Crystal Empire was controlled by Sombra…” Radiant Hope sighed. “Right after…I betrayed him…”

“Betray?” I asked. “So you betrayed him over his take over across Equestria?”

“Yeah…it was after he transformed Princess Amore…to stone.” She looked away with a grim look. “He asked me to be his queen, but I never wanted that.”

“Because that’s not who you are, correct?” Radiant Hope stares at me before nodding and continued “Yes…because I didn’t want this and I know that Sombra would never do that.”

“Having faith in some guy you know for many years…” Rantaro muttered. “Heh…you trusted him too much.”

“Shut it!” Radiant Hope narrowed her eyes, her horn glowing as she was about to shoot a magic beam at him but Rantaro was unfazed by it. “I trusted Sombra since the day we met at the orphanage, and I know that he would never do it…!”

“Really? Well what do you think what set him off?” Rantaro raised a brow. “Was this because how those Crystal Ponies out there just view him as a ‘freak’ because of him being a ‘unicorn’?”

“…That’s what I thought at first.” Radiant Hope looks away with a grim look. “The moment we first met, everypony would steer clear away from him, but I didn’t. I decided to become good friends with him, and he and I became the bestest of friends for as long as I can remember. During my time, I would discover my talent for healing magic due to the many illnesses Sombra kept suffering.”

“Oh right, I remember reading that book.” Rantaro thought aloud. “I was wondering who it belonged to.”

“It was obvious who it is judging by that photo.” I pointed out. “But right now, please continue.”

“What’s the point since we read the book?” Rantaro grumbled, rolling his eyes.

“Because I wish to hear this from her perspective and in person.” I retorted before looking at Radiant Hope. “So Ms. Hope, would you mind continuing with your story?”

“Alright…” She nodded. “Ever since Princess Celestia and Princess Luna discovered my talent of healing, they invited me over to hone my skills which I happily accepted. I felt so excited to do it, but before I could go, I…I…”


Her face…it’s PTSD. In other words, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. She’s seemed to be suffering what cruel fate she went through or witness, and I can already tell what it was.

“Was this about Sombra’s descent to darkness?” I guessed, causing her to wince and looked away sadly before she silently nodded. “I see now. That experience about him transforming into that form we all witnessed when we were heading out to the Crystal Empire and him killing your previous ruler of this place really traumatized you…I see.”

“Ngh…after that, I couldn’t go with it so I decided to run off and do my studies at their school.” Radiant Hope looked away, her eyes showing signs of fear. “But…I couldn’t focus on school, and…I was scared…I couldn’t take it anymore…so one day, I left the school…”

“I guess your trauma of guilt and regret for betraying Sombra must’ve really affected you.” I thought aloud. 

“I couldn’t take it…I couldn’t handle abandoning Sombra.” Radiant Hope closed her eyes with deep regret. “So…after when the princesses banished Sombra and with the Crystal Empire disappearing for good, I ran away and tried to find a way to save Sombra.”

“Hm…” Rantaro stares at her with a raised brow. “And by that, you think these ‘Umbrum’ guys can really save him?”

“I don’t think. I know.” Radiant Hope glares at him. “I know the Umbrum Army for a long time. When I came to the frozen wasteland to find a way to free Sombra, I came across a mysterious portal that lead me to their world, and they’re really friendly creatures that took care of me. And I also discovered recently that time passes differently in their world and here in Equestria.”

“I see…so that’s why you aren’t that old.” I remarked. “Oh…please forgive me if I insulted you with that little remark.”

“No no, you had the right idea.” Radiant Hope shook her head. “But anyway, right now…I need to focus on my mission to open this door. That is all I can tell you.”

“…So…you’re the one who saved Mason and Shining Armor?” Rantaro questioned, changing the subject. 

“Huh? Oh that…yeah.” Radiant Hope hummed in agreement, examining the lock at the door. “I didn’t want Sombra to kill them because I wanted him to at least gain a heart, but no matter what I said to him…he wouldn’t listen to me.”

I see…So when Mason and Shining Armor escaped from the clutches of Sombra, she tried negotiating a deal with him, but it seemed like it was no use.

“So I take it you ran away from him? What a good friend you are.” Rantaro smirked, surprising me a bit while Radiant Hope stopped what she was doing before marching over to him and glared at him.

“What?” Radiant Hope hissed.

“I mean it, if you really want to save your friend, then I guess it’s too late.” Rantaro rolled his eyes. “Besides…how can we be sure that if those guys really mean it?”

“What are you getting at?!” Radiant Hope exclaimed. “I’ve lived with the Umbrum creatures for a very long time! They’re really great creatures! You don’t know anything!”

“Well if you’re that smart, then don’t you find it weird that your ‘friend’ looks like an evil demon lord while these Umbrum as you described are kind and gentle creatures.” Rantaro raised a brow.

Actually…he’s not wrong there. 

“They said that they could redeem him. He was just like as an error, but they can transform him into a real pony if I opened the door to their world and make them back here.” Radiant Hope explained.

“Really? So you think they can help? I highly doubt that.” Rantaro scoffed before making a smirk. “Besides…how can you be so sure?”

“I know that they do care. Besides, the Umbrum aren’t evil as everypony claims!” Radiant Hope retorted. 

“What? What do you mean?” I asked, trying to get up but remembered the crystal bondage that wrapped around our arms and legs. 

“You wouldn’t understand. The Crystal Ponies are the real villains here. They locked the Umbrum away.” Radiant Hope stated. 

“Strange, I don’t remember being told that.” Rantaro smirked. “I don’t think you have the rights to tell us…unless you’re lying to yourself.”

“I am not lying!” Radiant Hope exclaimed, glaring coldly at Rantaro. “And the reason why nopony out there in Equestria knows about the Umbrum Army because the princesses demanded any history book related to them to be destroyed!”

“What?” I asked.

“It’s the truth! They deemed them dangerous and hidden that fact from everypony in Equestria for a thousand years and it’s the truth!” Radiant Hope nodded with a serious look. 

Her emotions…fascinating…it seems to go high above with this belief of the Umbrum Army being sincere and good. But I won’t know for sure…but I do know one thing…if what she says is the truth, then that means one thing…

“You’re being fooled.” I stated, confusing her. “You may be saying that as a fact, but how can you be so sure if what they’re saying could be the truth?”

“See, she gets it.” Rantaro pointed his finger at me with a smirk. “But unless you have proof, then I guess we can’t believe anything you say is the truth. For all we know, they could be really be monsters just like your poor little King Sombra.”

“They aren’t! They’re nice, decent, creatures!” Radiant Hope pointed out. “I’ve been living with them for all these years.”

“Wait…” I stopped her, narrowing my eyes at her. “I know you told us that before, but there’s one question I want to ask; Why did you leave their world in the first place and came here?”

“They let me go.” Radiant Hope explained. “They wanted me to know that they were good. That Sombra could be good. They wanted me to help Sombra complete his mission.”

“His…mission?” Wait…his mission…could it be related to when he took over the Crystal Empire back then and was planning to rule all over Equestria? How peculiar…

“But if these guys are locked away as you claim, how did you manage to find them?” Rantaro questioned. 

Radiant Hope darkened her face a bit and began her story.

“There’s a red crystal. In the Artic Wastes. It’s like a door, but the problem is that we can go in but they can’t get out.” 

I raised a brow at that little answer she gave out. So anyone can enter to their dimension, but they can’t. Could it be some sort of curse or mechanism? Very interesting…and she doesn’t seemed to be lying, so I‘ll take her story…for now.

“And you were able to go into their prison and speak with them?” I asked. 

Radiant Hope nodded and replied “For centuries, something about that place just kept me from aging.”

“Well…if you really think that’s true, why not take us there?” Rantaro grinned slyly. “If you prove to us that these guys are as his claim, we believe you.”

“I thought you’d never ask.” Radiant Hope gloated, smirking at us.

I see…so that’s his plan. Rantaro was trying to make a bargain for us to see the Umbrum Army. Hmm…interesting. I never thought his skills might become useful, but then again, it has worked a few times.

Radiant Hope’s horn slowly began glowing before it fired directly at a nearby wall, creating a portal.

“Oh, and…” She turned to us with a stern look. “I’m going to release you guys, but if you try anything…you two will be sorry.”

“Yeah yeah, we get it.” Rantaro rolled his eyes.

“It’s not we want to leave.” I stated with a sigh. “Let’s go and trust us, even if we attack you, it’ll be no point.”

“Hmm…Alright then.” Radiant Hope nodded before her horn glowed, releasing the binds out of us. I stretched my hands and fingers before feeling a bit better as the two of us gotten back up

“Thank you.” I thanked.

“Don’t mention it.” Radiant Hope smiled softly. “Though I must admit, for humans…you two seemed very calm but I still don’t trust you.”

“Hm…” I narrowed my eyes at her, sensing that little distrust in her. It appears that she’s lying to us as well. It looks like someone did tell her about us. How strange that she would hide this fact from us…it’s best if I kept my eyes on her.

“Well, what are you two waiting for? Let’s go.” Radiant Hope walked towards the portal, which Rantaro and I did too.

“Well this isn’t what my day was supposed to be. Ugh…fine.” Rantaro shrugged before we headed towards the portal.

“Alright…let’s see where it leads.” I’m not sure where my iPad went, but I guess I don’t need it. I kept all my save data of learning everything about this place safe and sound in my pockets before I gotten knocked out. Assuming that she didn’t take it…

However, the moment I was about to stepped to the portal she made…I saw it…



N-Ngh!…What the? Is that…the door she was examining? But…it looked brand new…and plus, it’s slowly closing something dark. I hear the voices coming out of the door, those voices…are the people voices…of how they feel about life…wanting to die, wanting to give up, every negative emotion I can see…

“Come on you guys! Close the door!” Huh? I saw some individuals attempting to close the doors for good. Wait…is that…?!



“Hey!” Hm? I glanced upwards and saw Rantaro staring at me with a deadpan look. “You just gonna stare into space or are you gonna come?”

“….Right…” I nodded before we entered through the portal. I don’t understand…why did I see them and more importantly…why do I know about this place?



Meanwhile

“Where are they?” 

Back with Kodiak, Spike, and Gizmo…they were exploring the dark tunnels of the place as the talking husky was sniffing out as much as he can in search for one of his lost friends.

“Beats me, I can’t even sniff like you.” Spike commented, crossing his arms before looking over at the photo Gizmo handed them. “Seriously though, I can’t believe that this was Sombra in this picture…he looks too young to be that evil.”

“I’ll say…” Kodi nodded before something caught his attention. “Wait…”

Kodi started sniffing on the ground, finding something on the ground. 

“What is this?” Kodi picked the item off the ground as Spike and Gizmo hopped off his back and found the said item. 

“Hey wait…I think I’ve seen that before.” Spike folded his arms as he stared at the item before letting out a gasp. “No way! It’s that iPad thing that Nicole always carries around!”

“Oh, actually…now that I’m holding onto it, I’m starting to see it too.” Kodi muffled, which Gizmo squeaked in agreement.

“I never seen her leave without it.” Spike nodded. “So she must’ve dropped it! Oh no, where could they have gone?!”

“Wait…” Kodi gave the iPad to Gizmo before he began sniffing it. Five seconds later…

“A-A-ACHOO!” Kodi sneezed, annoying Gizmo due to him being the only one in front of him for the husky to sneeze at. Kodi scratched his nose with his paw and gave the raccoon friend a sheepish grin. “Excuse me…your fur gotten my nose all clogged up.”

Gizmo rolled his eyes before he began squeaking, which Kodi was able to translate.

“Well, what did he say?” Spike asked.

“He said something about ‘Cover your nose next time mutt’.” Kodi translated before glaring at him. “Hey!”

Gizmo giggled before hopping on his back, along with Spike as he asked “So, did you find a scent?”

“Yeah! It’s…this way!” Kodi began running off throughout the dark tunnel before arriving to a dark corner.

“Umm…Kodiak? We’re at a dead end.” Spike pointed out, hopping off his back while Gizmo remained sitting on Kodiak, who was confused by this.

“That’s weird…the scent keeps on going.” Kodi pointed out, sniffing around the place.

“Huh…maybe your nose is misleading us.” Spike pointed out, leaning against the wall till…

“W-Whoa!” Kodi and Gizmo turned around and saw Spike was nowhere in sight. 

“Spike? Where are you?” Kodi called, looking around in concern before seeing Spike popped his head out of the dark cornered dead end. “Whoa! Spike?! How are you doing that?!”

“I don’t know, but I think your nose wasn’t wrong! You gotta check this out!” Spike pointed out, gesturing him to head towards the wall. Kodi and Gizmo looked at each other in confusion and felt hesitated to do before walking towards the wall and went past the darkness, arriving to the other side of the wall and finding a long dark hallway.

“Whoa!” Kodi gasped. 

“Crazy, right? I guess that dead end was meant to fool anypony who finds that tunnel.” Spike suggested.

“Yeah, but…” Kodi sniffed in the air before smirking to himself. “I can smell them up ahead!”

“That’s great to hear!” Spike grinned before hopping on Kodiak. “Now let’s go!”

“Okay, I still smell their scent!” Kodi grins before he prepares to run till…

“AHHH!” The moment the three stepped forward, they instantly saw a pair of shadow-like hands coming out of the walls, almost like they were reaching out for something.

“W-W-What?!” Spike gasped. 

“Quick! Run!” Kodi yelled out, running through the halls while avoiding the crazy hands while Spike and Gizmo held tight on him. Gizmo kept nudging Kodi hard to the side, which was starting to irritate him.

“Ow ow ow ow! Stop that!” Kodi hissed, glaring at the grey raccoon as they rushed through the halls before arriving to the end before looking back and saw that they weren’t there. Almost as if they were never there.

“….Okay, so I wasn’t the only one who saw that, right?” Spike asked the animals, which they nodded.

“I don’t know what just happened, but I probably won’t.” Kodi sighed, which Gizmo nodded before their ears perked up as they looked over and saw another dark corner at the end. “Hey! Look at that! Another dead end!”

“You think that might lead us to another room like the last one?” Spike asked curiously.

“Probably…” Kodi shrugged before muttering “And hopefully not those crazy dark arms again.”

“What was that?” Spike asked curiously.

“Oh nothing! Come on, we should head out before they might-” Unfortunately, it was too late as the dark arms stretched out towards Kodiak and grabbed him by the legs, causing him to scream while Gizmo and Spike fell of him and avoided the arms as they tried to save Kodi.

“Guys! Get me down!” Kodi whimpered as the shadow-like arms lifted him in the air and attempted to grab him.

“Hang on…!” Spike called, trying to think of a way to save him. “Ooh! If only I had wings so that I can fly!”

Gizmo noticed Spike’s tail and an idea came to him as he immediately bit on it, causing him to scream in pain, letting out his green flames which directly hit the shadow-like arms that was holding Kodiak, causing him to fall down before he immediately gotten up and ran off. He immediately picked off both Spike and Gizmo before placing them on his back as he avoided more of the shadow arms coming out from the walls.

“Watch out!” Spike yelled out, holding onto him before he managed to avoid the rest of the arms for good before jumping, side-stepping, or managing to duck in time to avoid them before he races over to the dark corner and went past it before finding themselves in a nearly dark room.

Kodi took them off his back as they all panted heavily.

“Man…that was so crazy…I thought I was toast back there…” Kodi sighed in relief.

“I’ll say…” Spike panted before glaring at Gizmo. “And what the heck was that for?! You didn’t have to bite on my tail like that!”

Gizmo waved it off before noticing a pair of stairs leading upwards before running off towards it.

“Hey wait! Where are you going?! I’m not done talking to you yet!” Spike yelled out before he began chasing after him. “I just hope that you don’t have any rabies!”

“Spike? Gizmo?” Kodi looked over and saw them running up the stairs. “Hey wait…!”

Kodi began sniffing in the air before gasping. 

“They’re this way! Just where Spike and Gizmo went!” Kodi began running ahead before racing upwards to the stairs before meeting up with Spike and Gizmo, who were staring at something right in front of them. “There you guys are, don’t leave me behind like that again! I swear that I felt pretty scared alone in that dark…place…”

The moment Kodi laid eyes at where Spike and Gizmo were staring at, he widened his eyes in shock upon seeing what was right before them.

What laid before them was a giant door right in front of them. It looked pretty big and very old, ancient-looking to be precise. 

“Whoa…” The three muttered in awe.

“So this isn’t a dream, right? I’m not the only one staring at it, right?” Spike questioned.

“Nope, I’m seeing it too.” Kodi gulped while Gizmo blinked in shock before slowly fainting onto the ground. “What’s this door doing here? And…how is this so huge?”

“I don’t know, but is this the right place?” Spike wondered, looking around the area. “I don’t know why, but I have this weird feeling that they were here.”

“Maybe.” Kodi stood still in a dog position and stared at the door. “I mean…this is where the trail ends…Oh! Maybe they could be in the door!”

“You really think so?” Spike questioned.

“Well…the trail ends around in this room, and this door seems to be the only entry to this place.” Kodi remarked.

“Good point, but how are we gonna open it?” Spike wondered, examining the giant lock on it. “It seems that it won’t open unless we had a giant key for it.”

“Yeah…say, doesn’t it almost shape like a heart?” Kodi wondered. “I don’t know why, but I’m getting this strange sense of deja vu that I’ve seen that shape before.”

“Yeah…” Spike crossed his arms and was in deep thought before shrugging. “Ah well…let’s try to find a way to open this door.”

“Probably…” Kodi hummed before noticing Gizmo on the floor. “You okay Gizmo?”

“I think he couldn’t handle seeing this giant door.” Spike suggested with a shrug. “But anyway, let’s try and open it.”

“Okay!” Kodi got up and gotten excited yet determined as he and Spike walked over to the door and attempted to pull off the giant lock off the door, but to no avail.

“Come on…!” Spike grunted, pulling with all his might with his claws while Kodi tried biting it off, but it was futile. 

“Man, this thing is so tough….as metal!” Kodi exclaimed.

“That’s probably because it is made out of metal!” Spike retorted before they stopped and started panting heavily, trying to regain their breath. “Okay…maybe we need to try something else.”

“Why not use your flames?” Kodi suggested.

Spike widened his eyes in realization upon that idea before snapping his fingers and exclaimed “Oh yeah! Duh! I’m a dragon!”

Spike cleared his throat before he blasted the giant lock with his flames, but once he was getting tired out, it barely made a dent.

“Oh…never mind.” Kodi blinked in surprise.

“…This might take a while.” Spike groaned.



Meanwhile
Rantaro’s POV

Hmm….well I’ll say two words to describe our situation right now; I’m cold.

Apparently, that Radiant Hope fell for my little bargain and promised to bring us to the Umbrum’s dimension. The moment we exited out of the portal, we were around the frozen wastelands, just outside of the Crystal Empire and was around is just snow but one thing caught my eye.

A big red crystal sitting lonely in the snow.

“I can’t wait for you to meet them! You’ll see they’re not at all what you think!” Radiant Hope grinned happily.

“Ms. Hope, I want to make sure we understand each other.” Nicole spoken as we walked over through the snow.

“Just give them a chance! You’ll see that they’re not evil!” Radiant Hope happily assured.

“If you’re right, then I guess we can get them free.” Nicole sighed. “But if you’re wrong-”

“We won’t set them free.” I sternly stated before grinning at her. “But I know that I’m right. I mean, it’s kinda obvious if you think about it due to King Sombra being a crazy and evil entity, you know.”

“It’s just something that happened to make him like this!” Radiant Hope argued.

“Yeah sure.” I rolled my eyes before giving her a sly smile. “But in exchange, if we’re right, you have no choice but to free us for us proving a point that these things might be not what you say and…you’re gonna take us back to the Crystal Empire. Those guys are probably wondering where the hell we are.”

“For once, I agree. Those guys are very protective with each other, even us despite not wishing to be around the others.” Nicole nodded.

“Well of course! I promise!” Radiant Hope smiled. “But you’ll see, I’m not wrong!”

“Yeah yeah, just where is the way to get there?” I questioned before gazing at the giant red crystal. “Do we like…go through that?”

“Yep! Just follow me!” Radiant Hope happily trotted over to the giant red crystal before going through it, surprising me a bit while Nicole stared at it with a curious look as she examined it, using her fingers to go through it.

“Hmm…interesting.” Nicole muttered.

“Yeah yeah, just hurry and get in Miss Psychologist.” I rolled my eyes before muttering “I can’t believe I’m wasting my time doing all this. I could be relaxing taking some old valuables and treasures around that palace, but I just happened to be a hostage for that pony that says that she friends with a demon pony. Yeah…totally not want I wanted for my life.”

“Mr. Wilde, please stop.” Nicole called sternly. “It’s best if we just do what she says.”

“Whatever…I don’t trust her.” I waved it off before gazing at her. “And I don’t trust you either.”

“You always distrusted everyone unless you get paid. Though, even so, you are the type to not easily trust anyone unless something earns you your trust.” Nicole pointed out.

“Well you certainly got me there…but while you may be annoying, you peek my interest after all.” I chuckled with a smirk. “After all, I can’t help but wonder what you’re hiding.”

“Where are you going with this…?” Nicole questioned.

“Just…who are you really Nicole Bonnie? You seemed to be more than a psychologist.” Nicole looked at me, feeling a bit bewildered by that remark as I smirked at her and continued “I don’t know why, but I just have this feeling that you aren’t telling us who you really are.”

“…And you?” Nicole furrowed her brows at me, which made go silent before sighing.

“Well…what’s there to tell?” I shrugged.

“….Fair point. I suppose…I could tell you everything since you will keep suspecting me. But first, I like to ask you a question.”

“Yeah, what’s that?” I asked.

“You don’t remember anything at all, right?” Nicole questioned.

“None of us remember how we gotten into those pods at all.” I shrugged. 

“True…but have you really been thinking about some things?” Hm? Where is she going with this?

“What are you talking about now? If you’re just changing the subject, then-”

“I mean that something just seem right with each of us. We don’t seem to remember how we gotten here, but…that’s the strange part. Tell me, what were you doing before you wound up here?” Huh? What kind of question is that? Oh well…might as well answer that stupid question for her.

“I was busy making a deal with one of my clients. I was selling a Bell UH-1N Twin Huey to the client who happily payed me 10,000 dollars, and then…” 

However, the moment I tried to say something, no words came out of my mouth. It wasn’t because of hesitation, it was…because that’s all I can remember. 

“…You see now? That part of the memory seems to stop.” Nicole stated. “You seemed to only remember that and I’ve been studying everyone. I was hoping if I could ask them all what they remember before they all, including myself, wounded up in those pods.”

“What are you getting on?”

“Those pods…I was studying them till I manage to find out something through their program. Those pods seemed to be machines that were programmed to put a person to cold sleep, freezing the subject’s entire body at will without ever damaging it by slowly freezing each of their cells and let the patient rest easily in a sleep for however you wish to sleep.”

I stared at her for a while, seeing how she knew much about it. Honestly, I was not expecting her to knew that. But…I can’t believe that a thing like this could exist.

“I honestly never knew that something like that exists.” I admitted, staring at her with a suspicious look.  “As a matter of fact, how exactly can you know something like that? In fact, you sound like you know of it.”

“Because I do since I was the one who came up with the idea.” Nicole answered.

….What? Huh…well looks like we’re getting some interesting things at least.

“What?” I questioned.

“When I…was examining each of the pods we each awoken from while you all were busy doing your own things, I decided to check the coding of this system, but when I was hacking into its system when using my iPad, the coding…it was very easy to decrypt the code after I hacked into it for a while before somehow getting blocked off. I wasn’t sure if the person or people who put us in those pods intentionally left that coding for us, but I do know one thing…the coding for those pods said about putting us to cold sleep…but that’s the strangest part because that coding was mine.”

“So you’re saying that these pods’ coding was made by you?” How can that be? Unless of course she’s the one who put us to cold sleep in those pods, but why bother putting herself in there as well? Something doesn’t seem to add up. “And also, why are you telling me this now? I was hoping that you wouldn’t tell any of us anything, making you look more and more suspicious.”

“…If it means solving the mysteries of our appearance of how we wound up in Equestria, then…I suppose I could say something. Besides…” Nicole looked away with her cheeks turning a bit red. “I…was agitated if you guys would even believe me, and I calculated that you all would make me the enemy judging by the info that I told you.”

“I see now…so you’ve even calculated how we react.” I hummed in thought before smirking at her. “And I take it you saw how I react huh?”

“You are most peculiar since you do tend to hide your emotions quite a lot, but I sense you are between the lines of understanding me and not wanting to understand me.” Nicole deduced.

“Huh…you really know me.” I grinned before asking “So…you really sure that program in those treatment pods really yours?”

“Well yes…but there’s one set of the code that I haven’t even set yet.” Nicole explained. “If I had my iPad, I could have shown it to you if we weren’t in this situation.”

“I see…but you kept it in a thumb drive, right?” I guessed, earning a raised brow from her. “What? I pay attention whenever I find something that interests me.”

“…Right.” Nicole nodded. 

“You know…you should probably tell them that you knew of this or else.” I chuckled before forming a sly grin. “You really aren’t that good making yourself look less suspicious than you already are what with hiding these petty little secrets. First hiding a Changeling and now telling me this. Wow…this might not be your lucky day, huh?”

“I know…” Nicole sighed. “But I am planning to tell them all soon…probably after this crisis…but as I was saying, that code…that part of the code was half my work since I recognized it, it would seem that the other half of the code for the pods seemed to be made by someone else. Though, it’s odd…that other half of the code seemed to be similar to the code I made that seems to activate the cold sleep again…how peculiar, isn’t it? I only managed to catch a minute of it before being blocked off.”

“Jeez, that’s problematic.” I sighed before asking “Okay, I see now…but one question remains in my head, when you mention it was blocked out, what do you mean?”

“The system seems to stopped me before I could move any further, but I don’t know how. My bet…that someone or something is preventing me from seeing it. My bet is that it somehow relates to how we got to that home-ship. Though…I fear of a possibility that I think it show us.”

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“Do you remember when I ask you about what you remember before wounding up in that pod? When exactly did that happen?” Nicole asked.

“When? What’s in it for me to tell?” I asked. 

“….You’re not telling me because you’re starting to see, don’t you?” 

….Well she certainly gotten me there. I remember that I did this on August 24th, 2017. But…there are some places and some things that seems to contradict it. So-

“Hey!” Huh? We turned around to see Radiant Hope popping her head out of the red crystal. “Are you guys coming or what? I’ve been waiting like forever.”


“Ah, I almost forgot about that.” Nicole sighed. “I am afraid that we should continue with this conversation some other time Mr. Wilde.”

“…Yeah.” I nodded before we both faced the red crystal as Radiant Hope pulled back through it. Me and Nicole looked at each other before I slowly reached out and touched it, making some sort of reflection as it bounced back. Frankly, this isn’t one of the weirdest things I’ve experienced, but whatever…besides, who knows? We might experience and prove this girl wrong to make her realize what she’s doing. 

Soon, we stepped in through the red crystal and arrived to a mysterious dark room that has some ruins to it.

“Hm…so this is where the Umbrum Army lives, huh?” Nicole wondered. 

“I’ll say…and really?” I gazed upon to see a set of stairs. “Looks like we’re gonna walk through these stairs, huh?”

“Watch your step you two, it’s very dark.” Radiant Hope warned.

“Hmm…” I hummed, fiddling with my fingers in hopes to break free of the ropes wrapped around my arms, but it was tough. Ugh…well…guess I’ll find a way to break free of this. Even Ms. Psychologist’s binds…

“…It’s revolting.” Nicole said bluntly.

“Don’t judge anything by appearance. Just follow me.” Radiant Hope began trotting down the set of stairs, which we obliged to stay close in case we might end up falling down or whatnot. 

“This smell…it’s disgusting.” Nicole sighed. 

“Well you better get used to it, apparently.” I shook my head before glancing at her. “So…you ain’t gonna tell me more about yourself or our lost memories that you might’ve figured out?”

“No.” Nicole answered. 

“Wow…you really know how to break a guy’s heart, you know that?” I smirked at her, which made her furrow her brows sternly at me.

“Stop that please, Mr. Wilde. It’s not helping.” Okay, okay. Jeez…she sure doesn’t like being joked around, even in these types of situations, huh? “But…that last thing we’ve spoken about is something that you can figure out. Though…I never expected to tell you all that to someone like you.”

“Yeah, you really didn’t think this far, huh?” I smirked. “And you know, it’s not nice to hold back info, you know.”

“And you don’t?” She raised a brow, causing me to smirk and replied “Touche.”

“…But very well, if it helps us with our situation then I suppose that I can tell them to make us grow closer to our appearance to this world or why we were in those pods.” Nicole sighed. “Though I expect them to hate me.”

“Yeah, totally.” I smirked, earning a look from her. “But either way, this is a you problem, don’t get me involve in your crap.”

“Yet you do realize that I’ll also tell them that you were a part of this.” Nicole reminded, causing me to give her a blank look. “I am serious about this.”

“…Ugh, you really know how to blackmail, I’m impress. I thought I could pull your strings, but I guess not.” I sighed. “Alright…fine. I’ll tell them the truth, but don’t get mad if they don’t accept it.”

“….Alright.” Nicole nodded.

“What are you two talking about?” Radiant Hope questioned, looking back at us with a confused look.

“Oh nothing.” I grinned, but she gave us a suspicious look before sighing.

“Alright…” Radiant Hope didn’t respond to anything us before we arrived to the bottom part of the stairs. As we continued to walk down, I remembered one little thing that she spoken a while back before we got here. 

“By the way, you mentioned about some Crystal Heart? Like what in the world is that exactly?” I questioned. “Is it valuable?”

“Why yes. It’s a special treasure that was founded many years ago when the first Crystal Ponies first founded it after they formed the Crystal Empire out of the many crystals they discovered in the Arctic Wasteland.”

“Really?” Nicole asked, raising a brow at him.

“Yes, and once it’s powered up by much hope and light, it can create a powerful barrier that is said to protect all of the Crystal Empire.” Radiant Hope nodded. “And if I had that power, I would be able to break free of that lock to open that door for the Umbrum Army to finally be out and they can finally save Sombra.”

“Really? It can do that huh?” I questioned, rubbing my chin in thought.

“Yep! With that powerful magic of its light and darkness, I’ll be able to free them!” Radiant Hope smiled.

Hmm…the Crystal Heart. Heh…I think I can make good money out of it. Well…actually, never mind. If it’s that important for them, I won’t take it. Just anything that doesn’t involved protecting the Crystal Empire and all that.

Hm? Why is she giving me that smirk? I saw Nicole giving me a small smile, much to my annoyance. Ugh…

“But right now…I don’t think your companions know about it.” Radiant Hope sighed, much to my confusion.

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“Earlier, I saw many Crystal Ponies having fair at the Crystal Faire. To think that it would one day be brought back when the Crystal Empire finally came back to Equestra. But anyway…Your little companions presented the Crystal Heart to them, but it was a fake.” Radiant Hope explained. “But they’ll eventually find out eventually.”

“A fake? So they made a fake? Why is that?” Nicole wondered. “Hmm…I guess that they didn’t know that it was a real artifact, huh?”

“Probably.” Radiant Hope shrugged. “But…I’m sure they’ll realize.”

“Hopefully knowing those guys…” I rolled my eyes, placing my hands in my pockets. 

Making a fake artifact…Heh, didn’t expect them to do it. Oh well…like it matters. 

“Alright…we should be around here…” Radiant Hope muttered, arriving to the bottom of the stairs. 

“Alright…so now what?” I asked, still putting my hands in my pockets. 

“Rabia! Rabia, it’s me, Hope!” Radiant Hope called the moment we arrived to the bottom of the stairs.

“Hm…” Nicole looks around the nearly darkened place. “I don’t see a door. Where do we go from here?”

“I brought some guests, Rabia! They want to meet the Umbrum and help me to free you!” Rabia? Rabia…Well that’s gotta to be at least the normal name than those guys’ name.

“Ms. Hope, maybe we should-” However, before Nicole could finish, Hope smiled happily as she exclaimed “Here she comes!”

Huh? What the? 

Soon, we were introduced by some small pony-like pixel but its entire body was cloudy. Almost like smoke…

“Friend Hope! You have returned! Is it time? Are we free?!” What the hell is that thing? Man…and I thought talking ponies that can perform real childish magic and fly around the place was the last thing I would wanted to see. But I’m afraid that wasn’t it…

“Almost, Rabia. I brought some new friends.” Radiant Hope turned to us with a smile. “These are the humans that you once told me about. Umm…”

“Nicole Bonnie.” Nicole introduced herself.

“Rantaro Wilde.” I held a blank look, staring right at the thing. Hmm…there’s definitely something about this thing.

“Oh! Two humans? Here?” It asked, feeling a bit surprised to see us.

“It’s nice to meet you, Rabia.” Nicole stepped forward with a curious look. “Radiant Hope has told us much about you and how you were unjustly imprisoned.”

“Yes, it is a painful memory for us.” Rabia nodded, placing a hoof on its mouth while it stared at us. 

“Well…we were wondering if we could meet with the rest of your species. We are just curious to learn more about you, that’s all.” Nicole explained while I stared at it for a while. I don’t get it…what is this thing? Are you telling me that this is an Umbrum? And this is where that King Sombra guy was born from? From these little guys?

No…something’s-



Suddenly, I see a static-like image of some freakish devil looking pony with its eyes glowing as its entire body was all smoky and stuff. It was staring right at me and-




“N-Ngh!” I flinched before coughing a bit.

“Mr. Wilde?” Nicole called. “Are you feeling alright?”

“Never better.” I scoffed before staring at the thing, who stared back at us with a suspicious look. 

What the hell was that? What did I just saw? The moment I met this thing, I saw something different about it. Was that…? No…I better not jump to conclusions…for now, that is.

“Hmmm…two humans in the Prison of Shadows? That’s unheard of.” Rabia hummed.

“Please Rabia!” Radiant Hope begged.

“How can we be sure to trust things like you? I mean, we were locked away for so long, so if these two might do the same?” Rabia thought aloud.

“Really? How can we even do that?” I asked blankly.

“Well…fine.” Rabia sighed before giving us slightly suspicious and stern looks. “But…I need you to not use any magic inside.”

Hm? Not any light? How is that supposed to make you trust us?

“…..Of course.” Huh? What is the woman doing?

“You sure?” Rabia raised a brow towards Nicole, who nodded and added “We promise.”

“Excuse me but how can we even shine light?” I asked irritably. “If you think we can use magic, you’re wrong.”

“Huh? You can’t use magic?” Rabia asked, feeling surprised by this.

“…? Yes…we can’t.” I replied with a raised brow. Rabia glanced away for a bit before nodding to us. Why the hell would it ask us that? Okay, this thing may know about our species, but not that much apparently.

“Well, in that case…” Rabia flew over right what we were staring at front as something appeared before us through the darkness, revealing to be a prison-like area.

“Welcome to the Shadow Prison.” 

Me, Nicole, and Radiant Hope looked over at the place and were in awe upon seeing this place. Okay…seeing this place makes me think that this might be a prison.

“Well…let’s go.” Nicole gestured as she and Hope began heading out with me following after them. We walked around the place, seeing the many rocky ages around the place before walking upwards to the stairs, entering the higher floor of this place before encountering more creatures that were just like Rabia and I gotta say…they’re freaky looking.

“Hello Hope! So glad you’re back!”

“Oh hello humans! You two sure look beautiful as we heard from Hope!” 

Okay, these guys are really pushing it. What the hell has this mare been telling them about us humans? I mean…I get she was spying on us, but…

“This way, please you all. I would like you all to meet my daughter.” Rabia called, flying next to Hope.

“I would like that very much.” Nicole softly smiled while I nodded.

We walked around before seeing a couple of more pixel shadow-like ponies waving at us from inside the rocky cages. Jeez, they sure seemed to like using this place to act as their homes, huh? Well…imagine me living in a cell-like area. Heh heh, yeah like I would ever get caught in jail one day.

“Hello!”

“Good day!”

I waved at them while I didn’t look back at them. I was mostly not interested, but…I still had my suspicions on them.

“What did I tell you two? They’re wonderful, right?” Radiant Hope smiled brightly.

“Yeah…” I slightly nodded before noticing the other Umbrum flying around happily. This doesn’t make sense…

“They certainly do seem nice.” Nicole nodded, rubbing her chin in thought. “But why would anypony lock these things away?”

“It must have been a misunderstanding.” Radiant Hope shrugged.

“Hmm…” I tilted my hat a bit to avoid eye contact. A misunderstanding…Nah, it couldn’t. That wouldn’t explain based on what she told us that Sombra was an Umbrum just like these guys.

“Here we are! It’s not much, but it’s my home!” Rabia showed us to one of the stony prison cells, but this placed seem darker than the other rooms.

“Thank you, Mr. Rabia. We are honored to be your visitor.” Nicole nodded as we entered the place.

“My daughter, Ira, will be so excited to meet a bunch of humans!” Rabia exclaimed with a smile on his face.

“Hm…Okay.” Nicole nodded before noticing how dark the room was. 

“Hmm…Ira must be hiding in the shadows again. She loves to do that.” Rabia chuckled. “Come out, darling!”

“Is she shy?” Nicole questioned, which made Rabia chuckled nervously.

“Heh heh, I’m afraid so.” Rabia sighed. “I’m sorry you two. She should have better manners when meeting guests like you.”

“I see.” Nicole closed her eyes as she delved into deep thought. I’m not sure what she’s thinking, but I have feeling that she’s probably thinking the same thing as I am. This all seems too suspicious for them to just be friendly creatures.

“They can hide in the smallest shadow. It could take hours to find the little one.” Radiant Hope stated.

“Well…mind if I take care of that?” I took something out of my pockets and revealed a lighter.

“What is that?” Radiant Hope questioned.

“It’s a lighter. It’s something we humans use to guide ourselves through the darkness.” I explained with a small smirk on my face before flicking the light on, seemingly brighten up the place before looking around to find her. But…what we saw…truly made us regret me using that lighter…

“….!” Nicole widened her eyes in horror upon seeing a slightly disfigured shadow-like pony with weird butterfly-like wings with creepy looks, almost like a zombie.

“Wow…Just wow. You seriously don’t look like anything like your mother.” I remarked blankly.

“W-What is this?” Nicole asked. Huh, her tone…it’s trembling in fear. Huh…I never expected her to show fear.

“T-This isn’t Ira!” Radiant Hope gasped, her moth agape. “Ira’s a tiny little horse like her mother! She looks just like a small version of Rabia!”

“You’d be surprised.” Huh? Okay….No…don’t tell me…Don’t you dare go there. We slowly turned around and saw…

…Dammit. I told you people not to do this to me.

“Rabia, what is-”

When we saw Rabia’s face, it was the same as his daughter, but even more bigger than her and weird and creepy looking as well.

“W-What?” Radiant Hope widened her eyes, her pupils shrinking in fear before being grabbed in the face by Rabia, who was staring at her creepily.

“Oh, finally be quiet you numbskull! You only had one job! You were to find the Crystal Heart and use its power to set us free! But instead, you bring these two inferior humans to our doorstep!” 

“And that is our cue to leave!” I quickly grabbed Nicole’s hand and Radiant Hope’s hoof before we quickly began making our get-away.

“And you two! The only think I asked was ‘no magic!’. And you had to use that damn light to reveal our true selves!” Rabia screeched.

“Well I sure damn well did it!” I exclaimed. 

“Ah…” Nicole stares at them in horror. “These emotions I see…they’re filled…what are they?”

Funny…I never thought I see her reaction like this. Just what is seeing in them? More importantly…how about that exit?!

We quickly ran out of the house and quickly headed downstairs before looking back and saw that we were being chased by these things. Can’t these things catch a break?!

“AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! You can’t run away forever, Hope! I given you what you wanted! You wanted Sombra not to be what we are! You wanted me to tell you that Sombra was not a monster!” Rabia rambled on while it irritated her more and more.

“He’s not! Sombra is good inside! I know he is!” Radiant Hope exclaimed angrily.

“You fool!” Rabia exclaimed. “Do you really think you can escape from us? Father will surely make sure you all will die here! Can your hopes really be called ‘hopes’ for you all!”

“What?” I called before running straight through the halls. 

“Your hopes….means nothing! Your despair is lurking deep within your hearts that will surely come forth when the time you all learn why you can’t leave this world!” 

“W-What do you mean?” Nicole questioned.

“That is for me to know and for you all to die!” Okay, you’re seriously not making this situation more better than usual. “But what’s more great is how you all can’t use any of your magic than you did back then!”

“What?!” I exclaimed.

“Ha ha ha! This shall be easier for us all to enjoy! It would seem that you all lost everything! Maybe ever since you all sealed us away!”

Okay, I have had enough! I ain’t listening to what crap he’s saying to us at all! Let’s just get out of here!

Soon, we saw the way out as we proceeded there, but then we began hearing more and more voices of him kept talking, but soon, we began listening in what he was trying to tell us.

“Do you really think that Sombra can change? He’s just like us!” Rabia exclaimed, causing Radiant Hope to grit her teeth in anger before shouting “You’re lying! He isn’t!” 


“Really? Though do you mind if I told you that Sombra was the one who suggested to be a spy to the Crystal Empire?” Rabia asked with a small smirk, shocking Radiant Hope.

“What?” Radiant Hope asked, her eyes widening in horror.

“Sombra’s just as much an Umrbum as any of us. When he was just a young filly, we came up a plan. Our powers kept us from crossing through the crystal.” Rabia explained. “So we had to lock the darkness away in him. We had to make him look and seem like a pony, so he could pass through. From when the ponies took him in, they wouldn’t know what he really was. It was hidden even from him until he was finally strong enough.”

“So that’s why…” Nicole muttered. “Even he was deceived.”

“Heh, it’s funny and ironic since you humans can relate to Sombra since you two went similar situations.”  

“What? What do you mean?” I questioned. “We can relate to a guy like him?”

“Oh, but it is truth. You all will soon learn what it’s like when all of your hopes will fall into despair.” Rabia laughed.

“Guys, we need to go now!” Nicole exclaimed. “Hope, take us back to the entrance now!”

“T-There’s too many of them!” Radiant Hope exclaimed. 

“Yes humans! She’s right. You’re not leaving here.”

“Really? In that case…” I quickly grabbed ahold of my lighter and shined it to them, causing them all to hiss before I grabbed Nicole, who noticed this as she grabs ahold of Radiant Hope’s hoof as I yelled out “RUN!”

“Rantaro! Don’t let that lighter die out!” Nicole exclaimed. “They seem to can’t stand the light!”

“You don’t think I know that?!” I yelled back, annoyed by this but remained focus on trying to escape the place.

“What are we going to do?! We can’t let Sombra nor I free them!” Radiant Hope exclaimed. 

“Just shut up and keep running!” I yelled out before we managed to get to the stairs and raced out of there in time before arriving to the entrance, but the light was slowly about to die down as the others were about to head out. However, before we could enter, one of the Umbrum grabbed Hope by the hooves, causing her to shriek in fear.

“AHHHH!” She screamed as she was met face-to-face with Rabia.

“You aren’t going anywhere Hope!” Rabia screamed, looking at her with a dark look till I managed to shine my lighter towards it, causing it to hiss in pain before letting go of Hope as the rest of us immediately walked into the portal, stepping right out of the red crystal.

“Okay…” I sighed, letting go of those two before dusting myself off. “Well…it would seem that I was right. So you owe me one.”

Hm? No response? Huh…tough crowd.

“…Hope…send us back to the door.” Nicole stated sternly.

“…R-Right…” Radiant Hope nodded before transporting us out of there before returning to the floor where we all met up. 

“Well…looks like we’re back here.” I sighed, adjusting my hat a bit.

“It appears so…” Nicole coughed, but I noticed her hand still shaken. 

Hmm…so she does experience fear, huh? She tends to hide and oppressed these feelings to give herself a calm demeanor. 

“…It’s okay to be scared.” I stated bluntly, surprising her a bit before she gave me a look and said “I’m not scared.”

“Yeah, keep telling yourself that.” I rolled my eyes before turning to Radiant Hope, whose eyes was still widened upon…well basically going through with that painful truth. “Hey you…Hope, was it?”

“…It…it was all a lie…” Radiant Hope muttered, her eyes showing how traumatic they were. “I can’t believe it! After all these years, I’ve been lied too! Why?!”

“Likely to trick you onto releasing Sombra and using that Crystal Heart to open this door to break free of this control.” Nicole suggested.

“I can’t believe it!” She hissed angrily. “They lied to me for so long and…and…”

Oh great, she’s crying. Fan-frigging-tastic. Can this day get any worse?

“Rantaro! Nikki! You’re here!” What the? Ah!

“Ahhh! Get off of me!” I cried out before feeling something licking on me. I managed to open my right eye and noticed a familiar talking husky was licking me.

“Oh, it’s you.” Nicole blinked in surprise.

“Oh! It’s a good thing that we found you guys!” Spike cried out, rushing over to our side with an excited look on his face. “I thought for sure that you two were already out of the empire!”

“Why would we do that?” Nicole asked bluntly, causing Spike to sweat-drop before he scratching the back of his head. 

“W-Well…”

“Whatever! Get off of me!” I pushed the mutt off of me, who was still smiling over me before giving me one last lick. 

“Heh heh, sorry. Force of habit. I normally do this with Ren!” Kodi grinned, much to my annoyance. Of frigging course that boy would received licks from a dog like you. As I slowly gotten back up, I was immediately hugged and snuggled in the face by none other than my favorite pal.

“Oh, it’s about frigging time Gizmo.” I grinned, which made Gizmo chuckled before the two of us fist-bumped each other. “So…did you deliver the photo to the gang?”

Gizmo started giving me a shrug and a sheepish grin before pointing over to both Spike and Kodiak.

“…You showed it to only both the small dragon and the mutt, did you?” I guessed in a deadpan look, which made Gizmo nod sheepishly, which made me face-palmed. “Great…”

“Oh right, we did find evidence that relates to Ms. Hope and Mr. Sombra.” Nicole realized while she adjusted her glasses. “That is quite problematic if the others don’t know about this.”

“What’s the point now? I mean…this is all crazy! We can’t open that door!” Radiant Hope exclaimed. “If we do! Then…the Umbrum…we would…!”

“We know.” I sighed. “So…now you know the truth.”

“I do…and after all these years…I’ve been lied to!” Radiant Hope cried out.

“Umm…who is she?” Spike called in confusion.

“This is Ms. Radiant Hope or Ms. Hope for short.” Nicole introduced her before forming a serious look towards her. “But Radiant Hope, you need to calm down.”

“But…how can I be after I’ve been lied to?!” Radiant Hope exclaimed.

“But even so…do you trust Sombra?” Nicole questioned, surprising her.

“Wait, what?!” Kodi exclaimed.

“Okay, did we miss anything or…?” Spike looks back between Nicole and Radiant Hope. 

“But…don’t you get it? I’ve been lied to…” Radiant Hope cried out.

“But even so, you seemed to be committed to find a way to bring back the Sombra you all know and love.” Nicole pointed out before softly smiling at her. “Maybe there is a way to revive him…If there is a chance, then maybe he can remember something about you.”

“Ah…” Radiant Hope remained silent, wondering what to do before softly smiling at her. “Y-You’re right…maybe there’s a chance that I can get him to remember me. While it may be difficult due to me betraying him, I know that I-”

However, the moment she tried to say something else, she flinched in pain before her eyes turned blank. Her eyes devoid of anything. No emotion…just staring blankly like she was a predator searching for its prey.

“Umm…is she alright?” Kodi asked in concern while me and Nicole stared at her with suspicion.

“…Hey, you alright? Hope?” I called, raising a brow at her till she disappeared in a flash. “What the?”

“It appears that she vanished by using her teleportation magic.” Nicole placed a finger underneath her chin and went to deep thought.

“We figured but why did she act like that?” I asked with a raised brow.

“…That I don’t know.” She shrugged.

“So anyway…what’s been going on?” Kodi asked.

“Yeah, we’ve been trying to track you two down till…you know.” Spike shrugged.

“Oh…let’s just say that I think we have more problems than with that King Sombra guy.” I sighed, adjusting my hat a bit. “Well…no matter.”

“Hm…” Nicole closed her eyes for a moment before reopening them with a serious look. “Though her reaction felt off….could it be…?”

“Nikki?” Kodi called in concern.

“…..You guys, I think we might be in trouble.” Nicole sternly stated.

“Hm? Did you realize something?” I asked.

“Yes…and I might not like it.” Nicole sighed. “But even so, it’s best if we be safe.”

“What?” Spike asked.

“Well whatever.” I shrugged. “While we’re here, what are we gonna about-”

However, before I could say anything else, a sudden flash appeared in my head.



W-What the? What is this? What is that door? Is it…opened?

“Now’s our chance! Come on! Close it with all your might!”

Wait…is that voice? I don’t understand…why am I hearing their voices? No…




“Ngh…” I placed a hand on my head and panted heavily, which the others noticed.

“Huh? You okay Rantaro?” Kodi asked in concern. 

“…Did you remember anything?” Nicole walked over and looked at me with a raised brow, but I saw her eyes glinting with concern. Ooh? Is she feeling concern for poor old me? Well I do have ways to ‘pizzazz’ ladies. “You seemed to experience some minor headaches.”

“Never better.” I replied before shaking my head. “Hey…do you happen to remember anything about this door?”

“Hm?” Nicole blinked in surprise before slowly nodding. “Yes…and I heard some voices that I think you must know.”

“Yeah…” There’s no doubt about it. Who can forget their voices? Those voices…it was-

“WAH!” Hm? Oh great, now what? We looked over at where Spike shrieked and saw Radiant Hope slowly walking over with some heart-shaped Crystal in her hooves as she still kept the blank and eerie look on her face.

“Ms. Hope?” Nicole called, but received no response. 

“Is she alright?” Kodi barked.

“Beats me…” I shrugged before glancing towards her. “Hey you…you still awake?”

She doesn’t offer a response at all but then…

“I am afraid that she won’t be speaking for the moment…” 

What the?! 

“What the?! That didn’t sound like her!” Spike cried out. “Who are you?!”

Radiant Hope let out a cruel smirk before saying “Oh, but I am afraid that I cannot reveal myself, but you should see me during the battle in the surface of the Crystal Empire.”

“What?” I questioned. 

“So something is happening up there with the others…” Nicole scratched her chin before sternly glaring at Hope. “So tell us…who are you and why are you controlling Hope?”

“It was pretty easy when she was hanging around with the Umbrum Army for so long. We have managed to control her thanks to her being influenced by us.” Radiant Hope smirked.

“What?!” I asked, glaring annoyingly at her before realizing who it was. “Wait…Rabia?!”

“Rabia?” Kodi called, confused by that name.

“Ahahahahahaha! So you do finally recognize me! Well thanks, I appreciate the offer human! But it doesn’t matter. With Father by our side and with us Umbrums finally be released, I’m sure we can work together to create ‘true hope’ for all.” Radiant Hope immediately disappeared and appeared in front of the door with that heart-shaped crystal in her hands.

“H-Hold on…Is that the Crystal Heart?!” Spike exclaimed. “But how did you get it?! I thought that Ren, Mason, and Twilight were trying to look for it in their own hands!”

“Oh, don’t you worry about it. I knew Sombra would let us all down since he’s just a failure from the very beginning.” Okay, now it’s sounding like we’re the ones getting lost.

“Sombra? Wait…” Nicole stared at the mind-controlled Radiant Hope with narrowed eyes of suspicion. “So you managed to mind-control her due to her staying in your world and being influenced by you guys.”

“Indeed. You two are those that we can’t control. Makes sense since you humans hold so much light than we do.” 

“You know, you’re making less sense the more you talk.” I pointed out. “Do you even like…listen to yourself whoever-you-are?”

“Now now, it is enough for the childish games, it’s time to finish this…” 

“H-Hey wait!” Huh? Is that…?

We all turned around and saw a familiar orange-haired boy walking up the steps that leads to this area along with a black coated pony with green eyes as his horn was slightly curved with a red tip on it, along with wearing one of those medieval robes kings’ wears.

My best bet is that this pony with the angry eyes is Sombra himself. Huh…they weren’t kidding what with how he looks like a pony to fool the others. I’ll give it that to them.

“Rantaro? Nicole? Kodiak? Spike? Gizmo?!” Ren exclaimed in shock, seeing us all in here.

“Ren?!” Nicole looked at him, a bit bewildered to see that he came here.

“Oh great, and just when we needed rescuing, you show up.” I grumbled. “Oh well…just hurry before that crazy mare tries to unlock that door.”

“What? Why?” Ren asked. “W-Who is she?”

“Ren!” Kodi raced over and began licking his face, which made the boy laugh. Ugh, well he may be a teen, but acts likes a little kid that it makes my head hurt seeing this scene. 

“There you are! I thought I would never see you again!” Kodi smiled, giving him one last lick.

“Kodi! Stop! That tickles!” Ren laughed while the rest of us walked over to him.

“Ren, what are you doing here?!” Spike asked before glancing at the crazy black unicorn as he walked past us and went to confront the red cloaked figure. “With King Sombra of all ponies?! Are you insane?!”

Yep…I totally guess right.

“Ren…something’s happening up there right?” Nicole asked, which he nodded.

“Yeah, and I tried to grab the Crystal Heart from King Sombra, and we ended up here where you guys are.” Ren explained. “So what is this place? Why does it look like Tartarus?”

“What? This place? It doesn’t even look like Tartarus.” Spike raised a brow of confusion.

“No, that kind of ‘Tartarus’ I mean. I mean the one from Persona 3. I mean, it nearly looks like the place.” Ren clarified. “All we need is that giant clock entrance that leads us to the dungeon and we’re sorta in.”

“…Huh?” Spike asked in confusion.

Okay, really? Are we really talking about games at a time like this? 

“Ignoring that, care to share what’s up?” I asked with an annoyed look. “You guys now just learned about the Crystal Heart?”

“Yeah, but-”

“You guys just realized that it was real and instead used a made-up one, right?” Nicole guessed, which made him flinched out by surprise before nodding. “I see…but it looks like we have no time left. We have to stop her!”

“What do you mean?” I asked in confusion.

“ENOUGH!” Oh right…I forgot that he was around! We immediately turned around and saw King Sombra confronting the red cloaked pony.

“I recognize you! You are that foolish fool that tried to intercept me before managing to hold back to allow that foolish human and insolent pony escape before I transformed into a small shadow to hide into their shadows before they could enter the Crystal Empire!” King Sombra glared angrily at them. “But now is not the time! Hand over the Crystal Heart or else!”

However, the figured remained silent, much to Sombra’s anger.

“Are you deaf?! GIVE ME THE CRYSTAL HEART!” King Sombra screamed.

“She won’t listen. She’s under their control.” I answered, pointing towards Radiant Hope.

“She?” Ren asked in confusion.

“…..” The figure remained silent before slowly uncovering her hood, revealing herself which seemed to made King Sombra widened his eyes in horror as I saw his face slowly turning pale.

“W-What is this…? N-No…you…I thought…it’s not possible…” Oh? Is he hesitating? For an evil tyrant that is said to enslaved an entire kingdom thousands of years ago, seeing her must be shocking to him. Makes sense considering who’s he looking at.

“So…you do recognized her, eh?” I sighed annoyingly. “And I thought that the big bad king like you would instantly forget his own sanity the moment he turned to the darkness.”

“What? What are you guys talking about?” Ren asked in confusion. “And who that mare? She’s…kinda creepy with that blank look of hers.”

“Ren…I sensed that you must know that King Sombra wasn’t always evil, huh?” Nicole guessed, which caught him by surprise a bit before nodding. “Well…you were right on the key. But it seemed like they influenced his mind just like they planned when he first arrived to the Crystal Empire.”

“What? What are you guys talking about?” Ren asked in confusion.

“Jeez, and I thought you had some sort of hidden intelligence inside ya. Use your head.” I sighed. “King Sombra isn’t a pony…he’s an Umbrum.”

“An Umbrum?!” Ren exclaimed in shock. “Hold on, how do you guys know about that?!”

Hm? So he knows about the Umrbum Army as well? Huh…I knew that he was hiding something, but not like this.

“You don’t have to lie. I knew that you were hiding something the moment we headed into the train towards here.” Nicole explained, which made me give her an incredulous look. Really? Since when did ya? Then what was the point of listening to her story then? Ugh…forget this. I’m too tried for this. “But we gotten a better view on them when she took us.”

“She? You mean that mare?” Ren asked, gazing at Radiant Hope. “Who is she again?”

“Don’t know, but she’s pretty scary and hasn’t said a word when me, Spike, and Gizmo found them!” Kodi explained.

“Well…if ya want to know, why not ask your shadow unicorn friend over there?” Rantaro shrugged. “You know…to save the suspense. I’m already wasting my time explaining it to a kid like you.”

What? Right now…our lives are on the lives right now, isn’t it?

“Hey Sombra…do you know this mare?” I asked in confusion, but I saw the horrified look on his face. Wow, never thought that he could even show that kind of face despite his crazy yet arrogant look.

“……No….Hope…?” Huh? Hope?

 Oh…so he does recognize her. And I thought he was gonna get upset upon seeing her.

Ren slowly turned to the mare who was holding onto the Crystal Heart in her hooves as she gave us a blank look while me and Nicole glared towards the mind-controlled Radiant Hope.

“…Hope….it can’t be…” King Sombra widened his eyes in shock as we all stared at the red cloaked pony. So…is her name ‘Hope’? What a weird name, but then again, everyone around here has weird yet funny names.

“Watch out…!” Nicole warned, narrowing her eyes sternly towards the pony.

“What? Why?” I asked in concern and bewilderment.

“That pony…she’s under their control.

“They’re…control?” I asked in confusion.

“You don’t get it, do ya? Did you even listen to our conversation?” Rantaro asked with an annoyed look. “She’s being control by the leader of the Umbrum Army.”

I widened my eyes in shock before turning back at the said pony, who was giving us a blank look still, unfazed by anything.

“No way…” Ren muttered with widened eyes..

“Radiant…Hope…” King Sombra muttered.

Yep…I guess finding much more about this pony along with what these Umbrum Army guys are, including learning more stuff about Ms. Psychologist and what she found in her research and investigation during her time in Equestria, and maybe coming up with several theories…looks like we’re done for…

…Well, that is…if we can fight them off, that is. But I know one thing…we’re doomed.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 62 - The Crystal Empire Part 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Previously on My Little Pony: Ren’s Adventures In Equestria…

“…What are you doing?”

“So I guess they weren’t kidding that you were amazing with your analytical psychology skills.”

“Been trapped?”

“No…it’s more like because I live with the Umbrum Army in their world for a very long time. Time is very different there than here in Equestria.”

“Having faith in some guy you know for many years…”

“Strange, I don’t remember being told that. I don’t think you have the rights to tell us…unless you’re lying to yourself.”

“Man…that was crazy…I thought I was toast back there…”

“Good point, but how are we gonna open it?”

“I know…but I am planning to tell them all soon…probably after this crisis…”

“Oh, finally be quiet you numbskull!”

“He’s not! Sombra is good inside! I know he is!”

“I am afraid she won’t be speaking for the moment…”

“So something is happening up there with the others…”

“No….Hope…?”

“No way…”




My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria


“So…you’re Radiant Hope?” I questioned with a shocked look before scratching the back of my head. “Well…to be honest, I…don’t even know you. I’m sorry if we never met, Hope.”

“Hope…why are you here?” Sombra questioned, glaring at her. “I…thought you were gone for good. Why are you here?! I…I thought you never wanted to see me again after you betrayed and left me! Why now?!”

“…You are such an idiot, you know that Sombra?” Okay, that was not what I was expecting to hear out of her voice. 

“W-What?!” Sombra exclaimed, widening his eyes in shock. “That voice…Rabia?!”

“So you do know him?” Nicole questioned. “I guess it would make sense considering that you two are Umbrums.”

“So wait…who is this ‘Rabia’ guy?” Kodi asked, which I shrugged.

“I mean…we don’t even know whose Rabia is.” I shrugged.

“Rabia…” Rantaro looked at him, glaring directly at Hope. 

“Rabia…what are you doing? Why are you taking control of Hope?” Sombra questioned. 

“Oh nothing. She’s just serving her role as my little puppet.” Hope smirked evilly.  

“As…a puppet?” I questioned. “Wait…what do you mean?”

“He means brainwashing her, obviously.” Rantaro rolled his eyes. “It should’ve been obvious the moment he said it. Then again…we did witness it earlier before you and Sombra showed up.”

“See? That human gets it, boy.” Hope chuckled darkly. “The time has come to finally released us from our prison and I could work well using her body as a new vessel for me to stand with Father.”

“Father…?” Spike asked.

“What do you mean?” Sombra questioned. “This wasn’t part of the plan.”

“You still don’t get it, do you?” Hope raised a brow before shaking her head. “You’re so stupid Sombra that it makes me wonder why I chose you to infiltrate the Crystal Empire all by yourself. You’re just a mistake considering that you started a relationship with this stupid pony.”

“What?” Sombra widened his eyes and looked at her with a shocked and bewildered look. 

“You are just a failure due to starting a friendship with her. If you just remember your role, then maybe you could have released us way earlier, even during your reign of terror. You completely abandoned us.” Hope explained, sneering at Sombra.

“You…I haven’t abandoned my kind. It’s just that…” Sombra grits his teeth angrily. 

“Just what? That you could have taken over Equestria all to yourself, but you couldn’t at all because your arrogance allowed you to be beaten by those princesses thousands of years ago.” Hope scoffed before adding “You’re just a tool for your arrogance. Why else do you think Father released you from your prison in the first place?”

“What do you mean?” Sombra questioned.

“It doesn’t matter…because now…” Before long, she placed the Crystal Heart into the lock as it slowly begin shining. “It is time for the Umbrum Army to rise from the ashes to destroy all of Equestria!”

“Oh no…” Rantaro muttered.

Soon, the locked began shaking all crazily before a bright glow blinded us all and soon we heard something explode right in our eyes before uncovering our eyes to see the lock was destroyed, and for the Crystal Heart…it looked pretty dark than it’s usual colorful aura like I saw before.

“No…what did you do?!” I exclaimed in shock. 

“The Crystal Heart lost all of its power…it’s no use to us anymore.” Hope cruelly smirked at us before we heard something banging in the door.

“Did you guys hear that…? Or was that me?” Spike asked in worried. 

“Nope, we definitely heard that.” Rantaro put a hand on his hat with a grim look.

“Everyone…we need to go now.” Nicole called. “If we stand around here, we’ll get killed by those Umbrum.”

“Wait, I can’t leave Sombra nor the Crystal Heart alone.” I pointed out. 

“Sorry kid, but we got no choice!” Rantaro exclaimed before we heard the banging from the giant doors kept making more louder sounds. “And that is our cue to leave!”

Rantaro immediately took his leave with Spike, Gizmo, and Nicole following after him. As Kodi began to take his leave, I remained still and didn’t go, casting a worried look towards Sombra.

He was just confused by all of this and didn’t want to say. There was so many questions that I even needed to ask, but even so…Sombra looks so lost that I can’t help but feel bad for him. 

“Hope…” Sombra muttered before glaring coldly at the brainwashed Hope. “Rabia…I don’t know why you’re doing this, but release Hope. She has nothing to do with any of this.”

“Oh, but she does have everything to do. Her role will be completed as a new empress for us to rule over Equestria while you’ll just disappear.” Hope grinned evilly before the doors burst opened, revealing many shadow-like ponies breaking out, but they looked like zombies to me. Oh my Celestia, they really looked crazy looking.

Though they don’t seemed to be like the ones that me, Luna, Mason, and Jamie faced in that underground mining cave back then. They look…way different from them.

“Grr! How dare you?!” Sombra screamed. “If anyone will rule Equestria, it shall be me! I don’t need the Umbrum Army nor Father, I will destroy you all myself!”

“Sombra wait!” I rushed over, ignoring the calls from my friend.

“Ren! No!” Kodi called, chasing after me before the Umbrum Army let out loud roars before chasing down towards Sombra.

“Hey wait!” Spike shouted, running towards us with a serious look, trying to stop us till….

“AHHHHHHHHHH!” Sombra screamed, his horn glowing bright green as me and Kodiak raced over to stop him till we saw the Umbrum Army heading its way towards us and before that…

A bright flash swept us up and…that was it. I couldn’t see what was happening. I felt like…I was empty…



Rantaro’s POV

“Kid!” 

That was the last thing he heard before being taken away by that dark tornado along with Sombra and Kodiak. Those Umbrums formed together to a giant tornado while Radiant Hope laughed maniacally at it before we last sight of her through that dark tornado of Umbrums.

“Rantaro! We need to go!” Well you don’t have to me twice, girl! Let’s get the hell out of here! Well…that kid’s gone but we need to get going! 

“Wait, what about Ren and Kodiak?!” Spike exclaimed. “We can’t just abandoned them!”

“They’re already gone! Let’s just go!” I quickly grabbed Spike and Nicole before we began running down the stairs of this floor before arriving to some dark room but there was no exit around here. 

“W-What is this place?” Nicole questioned before turning to Spike. “Spike…you somehow came to that room along with Kodiak and Gizmo, right? Do you know the way out?”

“Y-Yeah! Follow me!” Spike immediately began running straight through the wall, disappearing right in the minute.

“Huh…don’t see that every day.” I commented bluntly.

“A dark wall…how interesting…” Nicole muttered. 

“You can think of that later! Let’s just get the hell out of here!” I exclaimed, pulling her arm as we crossed over the dark wall before closing our eyes. If this is just some cheap crappy magic trick with us hitting the wall instead of going over it, I’ll be happy to sue anyone. Who knows? I could always make a quick buck at court…Nah, probably not. I wouldn’t do that…or will I?

…Huh…I feel fine. Not a smack in the face from that wall. I guess he was telling the truth. We reopened our eyes, finding ourselves in a long hallway. 

“Huh, what do you know? It actually worked.” I commented.

“Come on you guys! Let’s get out of here!” Spike shouted, just a mile away from us before me and Nicole began running after him before catching up with him. 

“Spike! You know the way out! You need to try and run towards the exit of this place as fast as you can!” Nicole called out.

“Right!” Spike shouted back as we began to run through the hall for what felt like hours, but really…it was more like ten minutes or so, and what’s worse is that Hurricane Umbrum is right behind us! 

“Watch out!” Spike warned, pointing over to the walls as some shadow-like hands popping right out of the walls.

“What the?” Nicole exclaimed, widening her eyes a bit. “What the heck are these?”

“Who cares?! Let’s get out of here!” I yelled out, grabbing her hand and Spike’s claws as we raced through the halls, avoiding the giant shadow hands like jumping over them, side-stepping, and other things that I won’t describe because it will be a waste of time for me to explain it all. 

“AH!” I looked back and saw Nicole’s left leg getting grabbed by one of the hands, prompting me to narrow my eyes before taking out my Tazer Gun before shocking it, causing it to let go of her while she took some small breaths.

“You okay?” I asked, raising my hand to her. Nicole looked at me with a slightly bewildered look before nodding. 

“Come on! They’re coming!” Spike shouted, running ahead of us through the dark dead end corner. We looked back and saw multiple Umbrums heading our way. We both immediately ran off before going through the walls and arrived back to an all-so familiar tunnel.

“This tunnel…” Nicole muttered. “This is the same tunnel form where we explored.”

“Yeah, we can think of that later! Now let’s get the hell out of here!” Without no hesitation, we immediately ran away through the dark tunnels of the place as we saw many Umbrums chasing after the three of us.

“The entrance should be over there!” Spike pointed over to the left of the hall, which we immediately headed over and kept running till we saw the outside of this place.

“Keep running towards it!” Nicole shouted, catching me off-guard. Well this is the first time I’m hearing her shout like this. Huh…letting out your emotions, eh Ms. Psychologist? 

So, we kept increasing more of our pace before we finally the light from the door before finally jumping out of there, finding ourselves back inside of the Crystal Palace.

“We’re back…” I sighed in relief before we heard the many loud shouts coming from the tunnel, revealing to be the Umbrum Army.

“Quick! Close it!” Spike shouted as Gizmo quickly hopped out of my hat and immediately slid the portrait back to the way it was as it slowly begins closing. As it was near to close, one of the Umbrum’s hooves popped out of there and grunted on trying to break free from the door.

“Ah! It’s trying to get out!” Spike screamed out.

“Well in that case…Rantaro?” Nicole called, looking at me with furrow brows. 

“You read my mind.” I smirked before looking down at Spike and quickly grabbed it.

“W-Wait, what are you-?!” Before long, I stretched him out and forced a lot o green flames from his body and shot at the hoof of the Umbrum, causing it to hiss before backing away as the mechanism door closed shut.

“That was a close one…” I sighed before putting Spike down. He began coughing up violently before glaring at me. I gave him a nonchalant shrug and said “What? You’re still alive. Get used to it.”

“…I hate you.” Spike grumbled.

“I hate you too.” I smirked, earning a dirty look from the small dragon.

“Guys…we need to get going.” Nicole stated sternly.

“What?” Spike asked. “What do you mean?”

“That door won’t stop them! We need to race outside and get the others to let them know about this.” Nicole explained before we heard the walls banging hard, hearing more loud groaning.

Jeez, these guys are acting like zombies.

“But wait…what about Ren and Kodiak?! We need to go-” Nicole shook her head and said “I am afraid that isn’t possible now. I’m not sure what happened, but I’m sure we can find a way.”

“I hate to say it, but she’s got a point so it looks like we need to get out of here for now.” I nodded before we saw the doors banging even harder. “Probably like right now.”

“But-” Oh for god’s sake! I quickly grabbed the reptile’s arms and quickly ran out of the room along with Nicole by my side as the walls began breaking more and more. Okay, I have had enough wasting enough time! Let’s get outside and warn the others! 

Well…let’s just hope that they aren’t busy with whatever they’re doing!

…Oh who am I kidding? They definitely are. That’s obvious, enough.



Meanwhile
Kaede’s POV

I fired a couple of arrows straight at the giant Ursa Major, shooting at its head but it deflected them  back. 

“Watch out!” Applejack warned, noticing the Ursa Major’s claws glowing dark before slamming down towards us. Me and Applejack jumped out of the way before it could came and hit us.

Phew…if we stood there any longer, then we would’ve been dead!

“Really? Is that the best you gotten?” We look up to Void, who was still in the air with his arms crossed. “If so, then your hope is not strong at all. If you think you can fight it off like that, then you’re useless.”

I gritted my teeth before glaring at Void.

“You don’t know that! I don’t know who you are creep, but we aren’t giving up that easily!” I yelled out, glaring at the masked figure. Seriously, what’s his problem?!

“She’s right…but woo-wee…am I exhausted…” Applejack panted before we heard the Ursa Major letting out a massive roar at us, creating a powerful shockwave that blasted us back on the ground.

I dropped my bow and arrow in the process as I slowly looked up and saw the Shadow Ursa Major glaring down at us.

“So it would seem that you can’t defeat it then…how disappointing.” Void sighed. “So boring…so disappointing…so…hopeless…”

“W-What?” I coughed before slowly getting up, helping Applejack stand back on her own hooves. I glared at Void before shouting “You don’t know anything…! We can win by working together!”

“How pitiful…why bother forging bonds? Trying to use bonds as a way to hide away your fears.” W-What? Where is he going on with this?

“What’s he talking about?” Applejack asked, raising a brow at me.

“I don’t know…” I shrugged.

“Dear Kaede…I meant that you’re afraid of being useless.” I slowly widened my eyes in fear. H-How does he know…? “You wish to be useful, want to fulfill your mother’s wish, and by taking those multiple jobs back then, you wanted to be useful and that’s your greatest weakness. You feel as though that if nobody needs your help, you’ll feel lonely and feel like your life has no meaning.”

I began biting my lower lip as my pupils shrank. 

Everything he said up to this point…is true. I mean, that’s what I always feel but I don’t want anyone to find that out.

“Is this…true Kay?” Applejack asked, looking at me with a surprised look. I slightly looked away, not responding to her question.

“Oh? But it is true, I can smell that she’s afraid to admit and will probably deny her true self.” Void scoffed. “It’s just shows that humans and ponies aren’t special and why they devoid of creating ‘true hope’.”

Void begins cackling an evil laugh while the Shadow Ursa Major approached us, ready to finish us off.

“….” I grew silent and didn’t say I word. I know that it is true. I wanted to be useful for people, which I why I still lived with my stepfamily. I mean, sure they didn’t like me and used me as their slave, I just wanted to fulfill my mom’s wish to help anyone and that I promised…which is why I shared my generosity to them. I didn’t mind what jobs or clubs I partake, it was not just a way to avoid mostly my stepfamily but a way to make myself feel…included in anyone. 

I devoted myself to give people help. I gave my generosity to those I worked for because I want to help others while my friends helped me. It was an act…of generosity.

Before long, a shock appeared and made the creature back away from us, much to our surprise before we looked back and saw some familiar faces.

“Did we miss anything?” No way…! Rantaro? Spike? And Nicole?! 

“Where in Equestria have you three been?!” Applejack exclaimed.

“We have some…delay that we needed to go through.” Nicole explained, adjusting her glasses before furrowing her brows. “But right now, we need to be prepared.”

“What? Why?” I asked in confusion.

“Let’s just say that we might get some company.” Rantaro answered before snapping his fingers at me. “By the way, who’s your new friend in the air?”

We all looked back and saw Void, who kept his gaze down at us. Jeez…this guy is just so creepy. 

“Whoa…what in Equestria?!” Spike exclaimed. “Okay, what’s been happening while we were away?!”

“It’s a long story…” Applejack sighed. “Basically, it’s this figure who calls himself ‘Void’.”

“Void?” Nicole questioned before she and Rantaro looked upwards at him and in just five seconds, they flinched and placed hands on their heads. 

“H-Hey, are you fellas okay?” Applejack asked in concerned.

“W-We’re fine…” Rantaro scoffed, shaking his head. “Jeez…what’s going on?”

“Ah…Rantaro Wilde, the famed broker from the blackmarket.” Void chuckled before turning to Nicole, and the way it looked from his mask, it almost looked like…he was sneering at her. “…Dr. Nicole Bonnie.”

“What?” Nicole raised a brow.

“What’s wrong Nikki?” I asked.

“I….don’t know. I can’t know what he’s feeling right now, but I do know one thing…” She furrowed her brows at the creepy dark figure in the air and commented “He’s full of insanity…”

“Well…this is quite a reunion, doctor.” Nicole looked at him with a raised brow, probably puzzled. Now what is he talking about? “Oh well…you already forgotten about me now, but it doesn’t matter to me at all. What matters is creating the ‘true hope’ in the future…but you all just had to be in the way.”

“Sorry, it’s what we do.” Rantaro winked before turning to me and Applejack. “By the way, you…red hair.”

“Huh? Me?” I called.

“Who’s the only red hair around here?” Well he’s not wrong there but he doesn’t have to be rude about it. And also, is he trying to rile me up by taunting my red hair? “Now listen…who gives a crap what he says?”

“Huh?” I asked in confusion.

“We arrived here the moment we heard him talking.” Rantaro explained.

“Yes…and Ms. Ross.” Nicole turned to me with a calm and solemn look. “Please don’t back down for things such as that. You have those ponies and the others by your side, and no matter the motive, you are…reliable no matter what. Whether you have the job to do it, you have the support to encourage everyone.”

I stared at them with a surprised look. Are they…trying to support me? Well that was unexpected of them, especially for Rantaro but…I guess not.

“…Oh, and I’ll go and check up on Rainbow Dash at the secret place. I’ll go after them.” I stared at Nicole with a shocked look before she began taking her leave. 

“I honestly still shocked that she can see through me.” I said with a surprised look.

“Trust me, even I am and I still don’t know why.” Applejack blinked.

“Umm…how about we talk more and address the giant dark Ursa Major?!” Spike exclaimed, pointing behind us. We looked back and saw the Shadow Ursa Major shaking its head from the shock it took from Rantaro’s Tazer-gun. 

“Hmm…it took so long to recover from that? How disappointing even for you.” Rantaro chuckled with a cheeky grin, looking at Void.

“Oh…did I bore you?” Void chuckled, folding his arms. “Sorry…I was just interested in her ‘pep’ talk, that’s all. Which is why I made my creature stand still till it was over.”

“Stand still?” Spike questioned.

“I can control these beasts since I am their master and father.” Okay…that is just weird and creepy from the way he said. “I can easily make them do what I want….it is just one step to make this world be bathed in ‘true hope’.”

“What ‘true hope’?!” Applejack growled. “What in tarnation are you going on about?!”

“It’s best not to think about it…” I sighed. “Besides, like Nikki said, he’s full of insanity.”

“Good point…” Applejack nodded before glaring at the monster. 

“Well…looks like I’m stuck with ya, huh? Fine…let’s just call this ‘support’ of mine on the house.” Rantaro smirked, taking out his Tazer-gun. 

“W-Well…maybe I may be weak, but I can still fight on!” Spike shouted, standing between us. 

“Yeah…” I nodded, clenching my fists. 

“Hold it…” Rantaro threw something in my hands, which made me gasp. 

“My bow and arrow….but how?” I turned to him with a bewildered look.

“I’m just that sneaky to get things that easily.” Rantaro smirked. “Now then…do you wanna keep on fighting for your friends or just want to wuss out like a coward?”

I gave him a scolding look along with a pout before glaring back at the creature, who roared straight at our faces. 

No way am I gonna lose….maybe that Void guy knows my fear. I’m afraid that nobody will find use for me and abandoned me, but I made new friends with them and no matter if I work as a fashion designer with Rarity, and give them my support on the sidelines, I will keep on fighting for my friends.



Meanwhile
Mason’s POV

I can’t believe it! Ren! Why would he do that?! Go straight to that portal when tackling Sombra along with the Crystal Heart…what was he thinking?! What can I do now?!

“Hey! What’s going on?!” But first, I need to get Twilight out of there! Recovering from what I experienced a while ago, I quickly went over to the black crystal pillars that surrounded Twilight as she was barely breathing in there!

“Hold on! I’m gonna get you out of there!” I exclaimed before I began using my bamboo pole to break through the crystals. “Come on…!”

“Mason, I told you to just leave me behind!” Twilight yelled out. 

“No! I won’t leave you behind!” I exclaimed, attempting to pry and break apart of the crystals. 

“But what about the Crystal Heart?! You and Ren should-”

“Ren’s gone! He and King Sombra just disappeared out of sight when the former tried to stop him, but they both gotten suck into a portal King Sombra made, even with the Crystal Heart!” I explained, which upsetted Twilight once more.

“WHAT?!” Twilight shouted, causing me to wince before sighing.

“I’m sorry for letting you down! The least I can do to make up is breaking you out of there!” I shouted, trying to break down the crystals, but no matter what I did is that, it kept regenerating! At this rate, I’ll break her out!

“I told you Mason! You just need to leave me and go back and save Ren!” Twilight shouted. “Just leave me and save the Crystal Empire!”

“Twilight…I am not leaving.” I stated sternly. “I made a promise to your brother and I intend to keep it. I won’t let anyone get hurt and I trust Ren that he’ll be fine. He is our leader, apparently. So…I will believe in our leader and I know that I won’t break a promise to your brother!”

I’m not sure if Twilight was upset or shocked by my answer, but I have no time! The Crystal Empire is still under siege from the darkness that is spreading across the kingdom and very much soon, the Crystal Empire! Right now, we need to save Twilight no matter what!

“Alright…fine…” I heard her sigh, almost as if she was accepting defeat. “Man…you are so stubborn…I wonder how a bodyguard like you could possibly be this stubborn.”

I couldn’t help but smile at that little joke of hers before replying “Well…that’s just how I am. Stubborn but loyal.”

“I see…Hey wait, I think I got something!” Hm? What is it now? “Alright Mason…when you see me arrive right next to you, I need you to quickly grab me and jump down from the tower.”

“Huh?!” I didn’t hold back my bewilderment at that. Why would she come up with that?!

“Just trust me on this one!” Twilight insisted. Jeez, and they call me stubborn.

“…Very well.” I nodded and waited up for her. I just hope she has enough magic to transport herself out of there.

Soon, ten seconds past and in an instant, she appeared right next to me.

“Ah-Ha!” Twilight grinned before we heard the sirens turned on again. Not waiting for her to say anything, I quickly grabbed her by the torso and carried her over my shoulders before quickly jumping out of the tower, avoiding getting trapped in those black crystal-like pillars before falling down from the sky. 

The wind brushed through my face, my scarf was blowing hard as we fell straight down from the sky. Before we could hit the ground, Twilight’s horn started glowing, but was flickering as we were wrapped around in a pink aura and slowly stopped, safely landing on the ground before I placed Twilight back on the ground.

I let out a heavy sigh and placed my hands on my knees, sweating all nervous. Man…I’ll admit that it was so scary…

“Phew…we actually did it…!” Twilight grinned weakly before coughing weakly. “Man…am I exhausted…?”

“I’ll say…” I coughed before noticing some dark clouds surrounding the empire. “Oh no…Jamie’s barrier is nearly weakening!”

“I should have known…” Twilight frowned. “Jamie…”

I noticed that she was getting so worried, and I can understand why she’s feeling like this. She loves Jamie after seeing the true self of his back at the Canterlot invasion.

“Don’t worry…I know that he’ll do alright. Just have faith in him.” I assured with a soft smile.

“Yeah…” Twilight nodded before remembering something. “Oh right! About Ren, is he really…?”

“Yeah…there was this strange bright light that appeared out of nowhere that blinded and distracted King Sombra enough for Ren to be able to move again and tackled Sombra along with the Crystal Heart through that strange portal they went through. I’m not sure what happened, but the moment they were gone, I was able to move again.” I explained the situation to her, leaving her speechless.

“No way…does this mean that we failed?” Twilight muttered, feeling guilty.

“Don’t feel bad Twilight, we’ll be able to find it. This is Ren, I’m sure he knows what he’s doing.”

Hopefully…he may be capable to defend himself with that Hacking Gun…but he’s still a kid, so I’m worried. It was my responsibility to protect him and Twilight, and I blew it…

BOOM!

“What?!” I exclaimed, looking around in shock before noticing something coming out of the palace. Before long, multiple shadow-like demons started pouring out of the palace either through the windows and doors.

“No way! What’s happening?!” Twilight gasped. “What are those things?!”

“Not sure…” I shook my head before narrowing my eyes. “But we got no time! Right now, we need to make sure that the others are alright! Right now!”

“O-Okay!” Twilight nodded before we began heading out. 

“Just stay close to me, okay?” I warned her with a cautious and stern look, which she nodded. I’m not sure what these things are, but I know one thing…! 

I need to hurry over to Carrie and the others as fast as I can!

“Look out!” Twilight warned as we saw some of those monsters coming towards us. Strange, they look almost like the ones I fought in the cavern a month ago, but the strangest part is that…they looked more realistic and creepy-like now. 

They started charging towards us till I managed to take them down with my bamboo pole by twirling around and knocking them down, causing them to disperse.

“Standing around here is too dangerous! We need to find the others as soon as possible!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Yeah, if we can know where they went.” If they noticed those dark clouds, they sure to at least try to hide or protect the Crystal Ponies from these demons!

“AHHHHHHH!” Huh?! 

“Wait…Rainbow Dash…?!” Twilight gasped.

“That sounded like it came over there!” I pointed to a nearby house, which seemed to be a bit bigger than most of the houses here in the Crystal Empire. 

“Quick! She might be in trouble!” Twilight exclaimed as we immediately rushed to hurry and see what was happening.

“Rainbow Dash…” I muttered, showing a concern look on my face. I’m not sure what’s going on, but I can tell that she’s in pain! Did those shadow monsters get to her?! If so, then we really need to save everyone! I won’t let them down!



10 Minutes Earlier
Nicole’s POV

Okay…it looks like they’re still fighting on against that shadow Ursa Major. I’m not sure what’s happening, but I have a feeling that they can handle. 

Though, that Void creature…I don’t know why, but the moment I saw him, I have this strange sense of familiarity. Hmm….how strange. 

Plus…that doctor part. I may be a psychologist and while I may have experience with medical knowledge when I was busy reading some books about the subjects of pharmaceutical and health-bringing, it’s still odd that he would call me like that.

And that tone of voice…it sounded like it was disgust and anger. Interesting…and while I couldn’t tell what I was seeing due to the mask, I know one emotion he’s feeling…

…He’s filled with malice and insanity.

“Hm?” I began hearing some muttering before looking over to one of the houses. 

I walked over to the door and knocked on it, and in five seconds, it slowly opened…in its own. Hmm…is this a trick? Oh well, I guess I can enter and-

“YAHHHHHH!” And that’s what caught me a little off-guard as I slightly widened my eyes and saw about a triple dozen of Crystal Ponies, either adult or child, inside and holding onto each other in fear. 

“Nikki?!” Hm? Ah, that sweet little voice…

“You’re here!” I was soon hugged by the legs by none other than Carrie, who was smiling happily to see me while I smiled softly and nodded before I was introduced to as Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie, along with Jack over by the back corner, who was holding onto a struggling Rainbow Dash.

“Oh thank Celestia that you’re here Nicole!” Rarity sighed in relief. “In what good Equestria happened to you?!”

“You really had us worried that I thought you guys were gone…” Fluttershy looked at me with a worried look before smiling softly at me. “I’m glad that you’re okay.”

“Thank you.” I nodded.

“So what happened to you? And where’s Rantaro?” Carrie asked curiously.

“He’s with Kaede and Applejack along with Spike.” I explained, much to their surprise while the Crystal Ponies murmured to each other.

“He’s out there helping…Kaede and Applejack?! Along with Spikey-wikey?!” Rarity gasped before fainting on the ground.

“Wow…I thought he was gonna run off like he doesn’t care except for a price.” Pinkie blinked in surprise. “I wonder if that last chapter really gave him some character development…Nah!”

….I am not going to comment or question. It would be too impossible to understand her ‘Pinkie-logic’ at all…

“So Nicole…Umm…where were you?” Fluttershy asked.

“I shall explain that when this is over. Right now…” I glanced over at Jack, who was holding onto Rainbow Dash. Hm…Ah! 

“…What’s going on with Rainbow Dash?” I quickly walked past the group and came upon Rainbow Dash and Jack.

“I don’t know! She was acting like that since that black masked weirdo touched her and done something to make her see something!” Jack exclaimed, holding onto her tight in a bearhug as she continued to move and struggle around. 

I looked over at her eyes, seeing it all green with red pupils as it showed off some purple aura. 

“All of them…all of my friends are gone…I’m all alone! AHHHHHHH!” Rainbow Dash screamed, causing everypony in the house to cover their ears in pain. 

“She’s been acting like this ever since! We don’t know why but she looks like she’s in pain.” Fluttershy explained, rubbing her foreleg in worried. “I-I want to help her, but she doesn’t listen.”

Soon, she begins sniffling and exclaimed “Why…?! If I just stayed by their sides, then none of this would have happened! I was too slow to save them!”

“….Wait…” I slowly widened my eyes and examined her. This emotion…it’s just like before with Diamond Tiara! Her mind is filled with dark thoughts and is suicidal! This is bad! 

“She really needs help and we need to find out what’s going on with her.” I quickly said, looking at Jack with a serious look. “We need to make her relax before she might try something.”

“I know but no matter what, Skittles won’t just shut up!” Jack yelled out before we heard a loud explosion, causing us all to scream and hold onto each other, excluding me of course.

“W-What was that?” Carrie asked, holding onto Rarity, who was hugging her back to comfort her.

“I do not know, but I just hope that wasn’t from our friends. Ooh…” Rarity gulped.

“Or possibly Rainbow Dash about to bolt to the door!” Pinkie pointed out, revealing Rainbow Dash getting out of Jack’s grip from the explosion before she tried flying straight outside till Pinkie slammed the door shut…

“OW!” Rainbow Dash flinched before slowly falling down onto the floor as Jack slowly gotten back up and looked at her with a shocked look.

“Skittles!” 

“Jack! Stop her before she tries to kill herself!” I stated quickly, which Jack nodded before grabbing her and putting her back in his bearhug position.

“Let go of me! I need to die! I need to die to see my friends again! That way…I…I…AHHHHHHHHHHHH!” 

This emotion….I cannot describe it…it’s filled with so much with dark thoughts to kill herself. Did this Void do this to her…? But why…? What is he…?

“SHADDUP!” Jack shouted, shutting Rainbow Dash up and having everypony stare at them in shock. Jack hugged her tightly while gritting his teeth.

Hmm….his face is showing anger…and regret?

“Listen…Just stop…we’re here. I don’t care what that bastard did to you to make you think like that? You didn’t let us down…we aren’t dead…we’re still here.” Jack spoken, darkening his face a bit before gazing at Rainbow Dash’s eyes. “Look at me…! Look at my damn eyes Skittles! You aren’t alone…you didn’t let us down or anything! Do you think we give up that easily and die?! Hell no! We’re still alive and kicking butt than ever! So stop whining! Besides, this isn’t you! You would never act like this! You would rather keep going and never give up! So stop this crazy nonsense of you wanting to kill yourself and remember who you are! Please…! Stop it right now, Rainbow Dash!”

His emotions…it’s filled with emotions that contradicts his emotions. Hmm…I guess there are a few things that we can see from his grouchy attitude. 

Soon, I noticed Jack’s cheeks glowing a bit, along with his hands glowing a bit, much to our surprise and in just five minutes, Rainbow Dash’s eyes returned back to their normal color.

“Ugh…what just happened? What am I…doing here?” Rainbow Dash groggily asked before noticing that Jack was holding on her. “What the?!”

“Sup.” Jack greeted before getting kicked in the gut by Rainbow’s foreleg. “Ow! The hell Skittles?!”

“W-What the hay, dude?!” Rainbow shouted, glaring at him while she stretched her back and flapped her wings for a moment before flying up and glared at him straight in the eyes. “I am not that type of mare to easily get hugged by a guy like you!”

“Yeah well, says the chick who was saying how much she wanted to die!” Jack scoffed, confusing Rainbow Dash.

“What?” She asked.

“Oh! You kept talking and talking all over about ‘how we were gone’ and ‘Oh how much I want to die’! Stuff like that!” Pinkie explained with a grin.

“Okay, you definitely lost me there and plus, what are we doing here?” Rainbow Dash questioned, noticing that we were inside of the house along with the Crystal Ponies. “And why is all of the Crystal Ponies in here?”

“They gotten scared and hid in there from those monsters outside.” Carrie explained. “You, Jack, Applejack, and Kaede all tried to fight off those monsters till Jack came in here with you wailing around. You scared me, Rainbow Dash.”

“I-I did?” Rainbow Dash asked in surprise, which Carrie nodded. She rubbed the back of her head sheepishly before saying “Oh…I’m sorry. I…I didn’t mean to scare ya, squirt.”

“You can start apologizing to me…” Jack growled, rubbing his gut. “God…you kick so hard like a horse.”

“Wait…” I spoken up, raising a brow at Rainbow Dash suspiciously. “Rainbow Dash…do you not remember anything?”

“Well all I know is fighting off the monsters till we encounter-” She soon let out a gasp before gritting her teeth angrily. “Oh! That guy! He done something to me and then I…I remember somehow being back in Ponyville and I saw everyone…”

She gritted her teeth and turned her head away, hesitant to keep going on.

“What? What is it Rainbow Dash? Speak up darling.” Rarity pleaded.

“You guys…were all gone.” Rainbow Dash finished her sentence.

“What are you talking about Rainbow Dash? We’re all here silly!” Pinkie grinned happily. “I mean, we probably were having a party.”

“A party?” Carrie asked curiously.

“Yeah! I mean, that’s where everypony were probably doing in her dream, right?” 

…No comment on what she thinks. Her head…is filled with things that I do not wish to go through or even talk about. 

“No…not that kind of gone…” Rainbow Dash shook her head, her face showed how pale she was turning. “You guys…I saw…you all laying on the ground and not moving…”

“N-Not moving?!” Fluttershy squeaked in fear.

“Damn…” Jack muttered, looking at Rainbow Dash in shock.

“Maybe we were sleeping?” Pinkie suggested.

“No…that wasn’t it…” Rarity turned pale upon hearing that. “Oh dear…”

“Yeah…and I…I…” Rainbow began shaking in fear, prompting Carrie to walk over and hug her. “W-What the?”

“Don’t worry Rainbow Dash, like Jack said, you still got us. You’re not alone!” Carrie smiled happily.

“Huh? What?” Rainbow Dash glanced at Jack, who was coughing sheepishly while avoiding eye-contact.

“Yeah! Jack really said some nice things and even called you by your real name.” Carrie smiled happily.

“S-Shut it brat! Stop that!” Jack exclaimed.

“Jack…” I turned to him with a blank look and bluntly commented “Your face is red.”

“W-What?!” Jack shouted in shock.

“Are you feeling alright Jack…?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Shut up!” Jack exclaimed.

“Whoa dude…since when were you the type to say stuff like what Carrie says?” Rainbow Dash raised a brow before cheekily grinning at him. “Don’t tell me that the big bad biker gang leader fatso is growing soft.”

“Mm…maybe…so what?” Jacks scoffed, trying his best to hide away his blushing but was failing miserably.

“Ooh! Is this a new shipping? I smell some shipping!” Pinkie giggled.

“Shipping?” Carrie asked curiously.

“I’ll tell you when your older, Carrie.” Rarity assured before smiling at Jack. “But I must say Jack Yamaki, despite your vulgar attitude, I guess you can really be nice when you want to.”

“S-Shut up! Why are you guys keep grilling me like that?!” Jack yelled out.

I couldn’t help but grin at him. Strange, I guess I can see why those two are close. They’re too stubborn.

Suddenly…the door slammed opened, revealing two familiar friends of ours.

“What’s going on?!” 

“Big brother!” Carrie rushed out of Rarity’s hooves before hugging the leg of her favorite brother. 

“Mason!” Rarity rushed over and leaped into Mason’s arms, hugging his chest.

“C-Carrie? Rarity?!” Mason gasped before smiling over them. “You guys are all right!”

“Fluttershy! Pinkie Pie! Carrie! Rarity! Jack! and Nicole!” Twilight rushes in with an excited look on her face, feeling happy to see them here. “I thought you guys were out there and getting attacked by those shadows!”

“Ha, like those damn things can touch us.” Jack smirked before rubbing the back of his head. “Well…maybe Skittles, but ya know…”

“S-Shut up!” Rainbow Dash growled angrily at him.

“I’m so relieved to see you all hear…” Rarity sighed in relief before looking at Mason. “Also Mason…”

“Hm? Yes Rarity?” Mason blinked in confusion before getting slapped in the face real hard, leaving a red shaped hoof mark on the left cheek.

“Don’t you ever worry me like that ever again! Do you honestly know how scared I was when that thing we confronted came out of nowhere and tried to hurt us and invaded the Crystal Empire, I was so honestly so scared that something terribly happened to you, Ren, and Twilight!”

Mason blinked in shock before sighing and shaking his head with a soft smile.

“Point given…” Mason chuckled.

“Damn dude, you alright?” Jack asked in surprise.

“…Yeah. This isn’t my first time.” Mason admitted.

I can easily tell judging by your reaction.

“Twilight? Mason?” Fluttershy called, surprised to see here. “Wait…where’s Ren?”

Mason turned grim hearing that, along with Twilight.

“We gotten ourselves in a scuffle and to put in short, Ren disappeared to somewhere to who-knows-where.” Mason explained, shocking the whole group.

“W-What?!” Fluttershy gasped.

“I’m sorry…I let you all down.” Mason sighed, leaning against while Carrie and Rarity looked at him with concern. “I was frozen in shock, quite literally and Ren somehow managed to stop Sombra from stealing the Crystal Heart.”

“What?! Sombra?!” The Crystal Ponies screamed in fear, hugging against each other.

“So Sombra stole the Crystal heart while Ren tried to stop him but gotten captured too?! What the hay?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, growling a bit. 

“Yes, but I just hope he’s alright…” Twilight sighed.

“Well…I know Ren is strong…” Fluttershy softly smiled before frowning a bit. “I…just hope t-that Sombra doesn’t hurt him.” 

I frowned and looked away, not saying a word to them. It’s best not to do anything and end up making them all depress. If so, then I can guess that they’ll be upset and/or more depressed. 

Although…there is that certain yet small chance that Ren and Kodiak is still alive, along with Sombra and Radiant Hope.

“So what now?” Jack questioned before letting out a yawn. “Kaede, Rantaro, and Spike are back there fighting off that giant shadow bear monster.”

“Wait WHAT?!” Twilight shouted, causing Jack to sweat-dropped and asked “Did I say that too soon?”

“Definitely.” Mason face-palmed before sternly glaring at him. “And what do you mean Rantaro, Spike, and Kaede are out there fighting off some bear monster?! Is it like one of those pony-like shadows out there?!”

That last part gotten my attention as I turned to Mason with narrowed eyes.

“Pony-like…shadows?” I questioned before realizing what he was saying. “Wait…what’s going on out there?”

“Some weird monsters came out there and swarmed around the empire from out of the palace.” Twilight answered before frowning worriedly. “I just hope Jamie, Shining, and Cadence will be alright.”

“Yes, we even encountered those monsters out there and managed to beat them before coming here.” Mason explained with a serious look.

“Tell me…where these things called the Umbrum Army?” I questioned, confusing the gang while shocking the citizens back there.

“The Umbrum?” Rarity questioned.

“The Umbrum?!” The Crystal Ponies shrieked in fear.

Hmm…I see. So they know about the Umbrum Army too. Guess that Radiant Hope wasn’t the only one, huh…makes sense.

“Wait, Umbrum? What do you mean?” Jack questioned.

“Don’t look at me! I don’t know even know about it!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, holding her hooves in the air.

“But nobody was looking at you.” Carrie reminded.

“Tell me…” I turned to the Crystal Ponies, who was still holding onto each other in fear. “Do you all know about the Umbrum Army?”

“B-But how…how do you know about them?” A young mare asked. 

“…You’re hesitating.” The young mare looked at me with a confused look as I sternly stated “You guys are trying to make us not want to see the truth, but if you don’t tell us…then we all die and possibly all of Equestria might be destroyed if you all refuse to tell us all.”

“B-But…!” 

“Just shut the hell up!” Jack stepped in, his belly jiggling a bit with each step before glaring harshly at the Crystal Ponies, making the small fillies to run into their parent’s hooves. “Look at you wimps! Just backing away ‘cause you’re afraid at what we might do! I bet because of your cowardliness that made Sombra control you all when he took over the Crystal Empire!”

“Jack, stop!” Mason warned.

“No! Fudge this!” Jack scoffed before glaring back at the Crystal Ponies. “If you really are tough then fight on you wimps now! Just frigging tell us this instant or else!”

“Jack! Calm down!” Twilight shushed him, stepping in front of him. “I understand your anger, but right now-”

“Well what I’m saying is from my own damn head!” Jack yelled. “These guys are just too trustworthy and too gentle to even step up or even fight against Sombra, so if they really want to be strong then they need to toughen up like the nerd!”

Despite his rudeness, he makes a good point. Jamie started improving his attitude more lately and started acting a bit confidant ever since we defeated the Changelings. I guess he improved due to Jack and Mason’s…training.

“….While I may dislike Jack’s attitude, he…might have a point.” Mason sighed, stepping up next to Jack. “The Crystal Ponies are very sensitive, but because they’re too gentle and too friendly, they make easy targets. Why else has King Sombra took control of them? If they just stood up for themselves like Jamie, then maybe they could have fought against him…Though I understand their reasons…”

“You guys…” Twilight sighed.

“Hold it…” Hm? We all turned around and saw an elderly male Crystal pony walking towards us. “I…shall tell you the story.”

Everypony, except us, gasped in shock.

“So…you’ll tell us?” Mason questioned.

“Umm…excuse me?” Fluttershy called, looking at her with a curious look. “But…do you know something about this ‘Umbrum Army’?”

“….They’re those monsters that Mason and Twilight talked about, right?” I questioned, which the elderly Crystal Pony nodded.

“Yes…those beings. The ‘Umbrum Army’ are said to be manipulative and cruel monsters. They’re very violent, but also very intelligent. They do not care about love nor friendship or anything that we ponies cares about. They were wicked, evil, destroying everything in their sight.” 


I see…well that perfectly describes them. The moment I saw them…I felt so overwhelm. I felt…so afraid. I never would have imagined to feel that horror…all they seemed to care about killing others…killing everything…no remorse…no care…no love…nothing. Just an empty emotion but malice…but…that same goes for Void, filled with malice and insanity…

“I see…so…how long have they been know? And how do you all know about this?” Twilight questioned.

“We’ve known for this since our ancestors discovered this place. When they discovered a mysterious door, a strange description appeared on a stone tablet that was around the Crystal Empire that described about the Umbrum and the warning of what might happened if they came out of there.” Hmm…a strange description on a stone rock…Hmm…that is curious.

“Really? We didn’t come across that when we first came here.” Rarity explained.

“Well that’s because the author didn’t mention it till now, duh.” Pinkie stated, sticking her tongue out a bit. We all stated at her with a confused look before shaking our heads.

“So…what did it say…?” Fluttershy asked in worried. 

“Well what I told you about the Umbrum is basically a similar thing on the stone tablet, but it mentioned that if that lock was opened, then the world would fall into darkness.” She answered. “At least…that’s what I said. It is said that the key made of the hope and light from all that could unlock it.”

“A key made of the hope and from all that could unlock it…?” I muttered before remembering Radiant Hope using the Crystal Heart. “Could it be the Crystal Heart?”

“Mm-hmm…” The majority of the Crystal Ponies nodded as the elderly continued on with her story.

“Yes…our ancestors and soon everypony here in the empire realized that it was the moment we read it and saw the shape of it in the secret underground.” 

“So…this giant door is actually where these terrible Umbrum creatures came from?!” Rarity gasped.

“Yes.” She nodded. “Through that giant door that is hidden through the deepest part of the Crystal Castle, it’s a portal that leads to the Real of the Umbrums, and they can fool you with their illusions, but while so, if a speck of light shined in that dark world, they would be revealed of their true identities.”

“I see.” I nodded. “So that’s why…”

“Nicole? Is something wrong?” Mason asked.

“…No, it’s nothing.” I assured before turning to the elderly. “Now then…may I ask something?”

“Yes dearie?” The elderly looked at me curiously.

“About that lock…do you know who sealed it?” I questioned, but all I received was her shaking her head in response.

“….No, I’m afraid not. We assumed that it might’ve been our ancestors, or even Princess Amore when she and the first Crystal Ponies to create the Crystal Empire from the many beautiful crystals that they discovered around from where we are today. So no, we do not know who created that door in that secret underground passageway nor who made that lock or it appeared, but we know that it was made with good intentions to keep the Umbrum Army away.”

“…I see then.” I nodded. “Thank you.”

“So wait…I’m a little confused…” Jack scratched the back of his head, causing the others to sigh.

“She means that they knew about the Umbrum Army for a very long time from stories from their ancestors, which they learned from this stone tablet that’s somewhere around the empire.” Twilight explained. “But strange…if so, then that lock…and you said that the Crystal Heart might be this key you talked about?”

“Yes…” The elderly smiled softly.

“But then wait…if so, then how did the Crystal Heart appeared? I thought that it was created by you Crystal Ponies or even made by King Sombra?” Rarity asked.

“No…according to our ancestors’ stories, they founded the Crystal Heart in a lone stone pedestal to protect the land that we live in today from the harsh blizzards.” The elderly explained.

“Really…?” Now that’s interesting…What could it all-



“Whoa…you created that?”

“Well duh…using the small crystals that we each used to create that lock, we’re able to create this special item to have it represent that hope still exists.”

“I see…so that thing will be here? But…what would happen if anyone discovers it S____?”

“Heehee! Don’t you worry! I have this strange feeling that someone will discover it and use it to have those who see it use the power of their hearts to power it up through the hope, trust, and the magic of friendship to keep it going.”

“Well that’s frigging great…”

“Wow…it’s really beautiful S___!”

“Thanks…C___! With this…maybe there is hope in our world…”



“Ugh…” I groaned, touching my forehead. Another memory…? No…I realized that there were multiple people in it.

“Tch!”

“Ugh!”

Hm? I looked over and saw Mason and Jack wincing and placing their hands on their foreheads.

“Big brother! Are you-” Before long, Carrie groaned and placed a hand on her head, frowning. 

“What’s wrong with you guys?” Twilight asked.

“Did you guys get ice-cream headaches?” Pinkie asked, tilting her head.

“So…it’s coming back to you guys.” I stated, feeling a bit awe and surprised to see them like this. 

“W-What?” Mason asked, his right eye closing while he was trying to get rid of the headache.

“You all are remembering a slight part of our lost memories.” I clarified, surprising the others while the Crystal Ponies grew confused by that.

“Wait, are you guys remembering anything?!” Twilight asked.

“Any per chance that you remember something before being brought over to our world?” Rarity asked.

“Just…a little…but all I heard were some voices…” Jack groaned.

“Yeah…but I’m not sure why that appeared…” Carrie frowned worriedly.

“Yes…what kind of memory was that?” Mason groaned.

While nobody noticed, I remained as calm as I could, but I surely recognized those voices but that static on what we were gonna call but it keeps getting cut from what we’re trying to say. But…it’s too soon to jump to conclusions.

When this is all over, I’ll confirm this with everyone.

“Are you all feeling alright?” Rarity questioned.

“If you want, you all can rest up…not that I don’t mind…” Fluttershy muttered.

“And sleep through all the craziness that’s happening out there, no thanks.” Jack scoffed.

“So those ‘Umbrum’ came out of the giant door from the inside of the Crystal Empire? I guess that explains…but I fear that Jamie might be in trouble…” Twilight muttered.

“Me too…” Mason nodded. “I wish to see how Shining, Cadence, and Jamie are doing.”

“Yeah, same here.” Twilight formed a determined look. “We need to go over to them!”

“But Twilight darling, what about Kaede, Spikey-wikey, and…Rantaro?” Rarity questioned.

“Oh yeah…that is a problem…” Twilight sighed, rubbing her hoof on the head.

“How about this? Let the Crystal Ponies wimps help fight off those things out there along with helping the others.” The Crystal Ponies all widened their eyes upon hearing their suggestion before they all repeatedly shook their heads.

“Come on, why can’t you help us pretty please?!” Pinkie begged.

“I’m sorry…but we can’t!” A young adult pony gulped. “W-We’ll all die the moment we stepped out of there by those Umbrums and that giant monster your friends are facing.”

“So what?!” Jack scoffed.

“For once, fatty’s right.” Rainbow Dash nodded. “You all need to stop making excuses and keep fighting on! Besides, how can you even be so sure when you guys never fought against the Umbrum Army in the first place?! Nor that giant monster outside!”

“Yeah!” Jack nodded. “Our friends have already split and ain’t gonna let anyone die in my damn hands! These guys are fighting to protect you all and here you all are, whining around like babies! The small fillies I understand but you adults are ridiculous!”

“W-Well even so-” Jack made a harsh glare towards the one Crystal Pony who spoken up and once he made contact with his glare, he made a sheepish smile and silently sat back down. 

“While I may have to disregard for their rudeness, they have a point…” Mason walked over with a serious look. “You all need to step up for yourselves.”

“Yes…I want to go and help my friends too…” Fluttershy nodded in agreement. “I mean…I want to help Ren as much as I can…and I know that wherever he is…I’ll be sure to fight for him. I stayed here to protect you all along with the rest of my friends, so…can you pretty please help out?”

“Yeah! Please!” Carrie pleaded.

These guys…they really have faith in the Crystal Ponies and I must say…that they do seemed to have faith, I’ll admit.

“They’re right. All of my friends are right, you guys.” Twilight stepped up with a serious look on her face. “I was sent here to save the Crystal Empire from King Sombra, but now all of this is happening and I can’t help but feel guilty for not doing anything right. We lost the Crystal Heart and I mean the real Crystal Heart…”

The Crystal Ponies gasped while we stood behind Twilight, looking at her as she continued on.

“But…it’s not too late. I won’t let the Crystal Empire down that easily and neither should any of you too! In fact, I can’t do this all alone. I mean, I have my friends by my side…” She turned to us with a smile while the others smiled too while I continued to listen what she got to say.

“You guys care about this place, right? Then you need to stand up against King Sombra, the Umbrum Army, and that weird thing you all told me about. I know this is hard…but…even if I failed this test, I would still be happy that I can at least be there to protect everyone and have my friends by my side. Besides…it’s just a test. There’s always next time.”

Huh…that was quite an interesting speech and there could be the distinct possibility that they would feel motivated by it.

“…O-Okay.” A lone Crystal Pony stepped out of the crowd with a determined and serious look. “I…I want to do something…but I was so scared to fight on…”

“Really?!” Twilight asked in surprise.

“Yeah…I want to do something too…” A young mare stepped in as well. “I too want to fight…and I want to at least try my very best.”

Soon, a whole number of the Crystal Ponies began joining in, wishing to try their best.

“Yay! It worked!” Pinkie exclaimed happily. “Now the revolution can finally begin!”

“What revolution?” Fluttershy asked. “Weren’t we just having them help us fight against the scary monsters outside?”

“Yeah, I don’t really see it.” Carrie agreed.

“Well more importantly, I’m glad that you’re all happy to hear. Though someone need to keep an eye on the fillies.” Mason stated, looking over to see some parents holding onto their children to keep them safe from danger. 

“Then why not you stay here Mason?” Twilight offered.

“Me?” Mason asked in confusion.

“Of course you can, Mason darling.” Rarity brightened up on that idea. “And don’t worry, we’ll be sure to fight against those horrible monsters.”

“But I made a promise to protect you all and even Twilight.” Mason stated. “What if-”

“Don’t worry, I’ll be alright.” Twilight assured. “In fact, why not you and Rarity stay here to keep everyone safe? Why not that?”

“Hmm…I see your point.” Mason nodded. “You’re quite talented Twilight so I won’t doubt your skills. Just please be safe, okay?”

“I’ll be fine.” Twilight nodded.

“Well of course. I’ll stay here and protect the others from harm along with Mason and Carrie.” Rarity smiled. 

“Me too.” I spoken up, gaining the others’ attention. “I’m not sure how I’ll be, but I’ll stay here to safe cover.”

“Okay!” Twilight nodded. “And I’ll try to infiltrate the castle to find Jamie and the others.” 

“In the meantime, we better get ready.” Rainbow Dash grinned cockily, along with Jack.

“Hell yeah Skittles, it’s time for a battle.” Jack cracked his knuckles while the Crystal Ponies that decided to join in the fight cheered alongside them.

“But umm…do you think Ren will be alright?” Fluttershy asked in worried.

“Relax Flutters, you can go and sleep with him once this is all over.” Fluttershy blushed madly before sighing “Okay…”

“What does she mean, big brother? Rarity?” Carrie asks curiously, which made the two widened their eyes before looking at each other and gulped.

“We’ll tell you when you’re older.” They both answered.

“Okay.” Carrie nodded.

“Okay…is everyone ready?” Twilight called, which everyone shouted ‘YEAH’ in response. Twilight smiled at them before walking over to the door. “Alright…let’s go everypony! We’ve got some friends to save!”

With that, she slammed the door opened and rushed out, along with Jack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, the Crystal Ponies, and Pinkie Pie who shouted “The revolution is nigh!”

They were surrounded by many Umbrum, but the Crystal Ponies managed to find some weapons from around the crowd which consists of pots, pans, brooms, and other househould appliances. I guess that’s what they could all fine…Well these guys seemed to not be the type for fighting, but now they realized that their kind-nature is what made them easy targets for Sombra to take over the kingdom, but I guess that’s it.

With that, I immediately shut the door closed for them to fight against the Umbrum, hearing some loud cries and cheers while some Crystal Ponies who stayed behind snuggled against their loved ones. 

“I just hope they’re all right…” Rarity muttered.

“So Rarity, why did you choose to stay here with us?” Mason questioned.

“Huh? O-Oh…umm…” Rarity coughed sheepishly. “Well…I am not sure if I could be useful in a fight.”

“But you’re really great at fighting like big brother back in Canterlot.” Carrie reminded. “But I understand why. It’s ‘unlady-like’, right?”

Rarity giggled and patted her on the head before saying “Exactly Carrie darling.”

“Well…I couldn’t because I’m not good at fighting either.” I sighed, taking off my glasses and cleaning them off. I can’t find my iPad either so that’s useless to collect some data to learn more about these things.

“Well, while I may understand your reasons…I am not sure what to do now.” Mason sighed. “I made a promise to Shining Armor to protect Twilight from harm when we were going after the Crystal Heart, but it would seemed that became a let-down.”

“Mason darling…it’s okay.” Rarity assured.

“But even so, I made a promise and I broke it.” Mason looked away with a sad gaze casted on his face.

He’s really depressed about something mere as that. Ah yes, he’s very loyal to us as a friend and due to his job as a bodyguard if I remember correctly.

“But you technically aren’t.” Rarity shook her head and looked at Mason straight in the eyes with a serious look. “You are fulfilling her wish by letting her go out there and help see her brother, Jamie, and Princess Cadence. Being loyal doesn’t mean that you should listen to what one person tells you, but to listen to others and how you stick up to them. Being loyal is being able to put others before yourself and stick with them in good times and bad. You trust us, right?”

“Well…yes.” Mason nodded.

“And you allowed Twilight to go out and see Jamie and the others because you trust her. That’s what it means to be loyal, almost like Rainbow Dash. Despite her…uncouth behavior, she always supports us and trusts us and never leaves us behind. While being loyal doesn’t just mean that you should listen to just one person you trust, but the many friends who trust you and who you trust in the very end.”

“She’s right big brother! I believed in you that you can do it and I know that you can still do it!” Carrie smiled happily, holding her brother’s hand.

“Carrie…Rarity…” Mason looked between in surprise before smiling softly and nodded. “I think I understand what you both are trying to say.”

“It was my pleasure.” Rarity giggled, her cheeks turning red while the audience in the background either smiled or sighed happily at them. 

Hmm…the both of them are feeling the same emotion. The emotion…of sexual attachment, or in other case…deep romance. I never went on a date and even so, I’m too busy with my work to do things like that.

Suddenly, we all stopped talking as we heard a scream. A banshee-like scream which I instantly knew what it was.

“W-What was that?” Carrie hugged both Rarity and Mason tightly in fear while the two tried to soothe her and calm her down. 

We all remained silent and immediately headed over to the back room of the house. We all kept silent till I noticed a hatch on the basement floor…Hmm…

“Guys…hide in there.” I pointed down towards the hatch.

“A hatch?!” Mason blinked in surprise.

“Oh, I remember seeing that! We didn’t even think about hiding down in there.” Rarity said before groaning a bit. “Well for me because it might messed up my mane.”

“Well I’m sorry Lady Rarity, but we need to hurry.” Mason quickly opened the hatch and gestured the Crystal Ponies to hide in there, which they did. 

“L-Lady Rarity?” Rarity’s face turned bright red upon hearing what he called her. “N-No need for formalities Mason, darling.”

“R-Right…please excuse me for that, Lady…I-I mean Rarity.” Mason coughed sheepishly while Carrie giggled at the two. 

“You two…that was the last of them.” I called, much to their confusion before noticing the last Crystal Pony entering the hatch before we started hearing some banging at the door.

“I-Is that them…?” Carrie asked in fear.

“Carrie…get inside.” Mason called, which Carrie hesitated to do before nodding and headed down, alongside Rarity and soon he went next. “Let’s go Nicole!”

I nodded before slowly heading down till…



I saw myself around in a lab and saw a bunch of scientists working on something as several were crowding around a lone rock trapped in a glass capsule. That rock…No, a meteorite. Hmm…and it’s dark black…what is that?



“…Huh?” What was that? Do I…know that rock? And why was I in that lab? 

“Nicole!” Mason hissed, causing me to look down at them. “Hurry before they find you!”

I heard the intensity of the banging going real hard, causing me to nod before climbing down the ladder and shutting it, putting myself alone in the darkness with the others by my side.

“Nicole, what’s wrong?” Carrie asked curiously. “You took so long to come down here.”

I didn’t respond back as I was in deep thought. What could it mean? Maybe…that rock…hmm…

“Nicole? Is there something wrong?” Mason asked, looking at me with a stern yet concern look. 

“…I am sorry, but I’ll tell you later. Right now…we need to be quiet.” I shushed them. “Please forgive me if I’m being rude.”

“H-Huh…? Sure thing…” Mason nodded while the rest of us backed away towards the wall and kept quiet.

I just hope the others are fairly doing well…



Later
Third Person P.O.V.

Back at the ruined Crystal Faire, Kaede begins shooting some arrows at the bear’s eyes, causing it to roar in pain before Rantaro came over and shock it with his Tazer-gun, straight at its chest, stunning it.

“Take this ya dirty varmint!” Applejack narrowed her eyes before charging over towards its leg and apple-bucking it on the right knee, causing it to collapse straight down on the floor and slowly began disappearing.

“Alright! We got him!” Spike grinned, pumping his fist in the air.

“Hm…It appears that I underestimate you humans…” Void hummed, tapping his arm. 

“Heh…yeah, you really messed up, did ya?” Rantaro grinned before shrugging. “Man…and here I was, trying to make some dough by finding anything valuable here in this ancient kingdom till I have to come here and help these two girls out for free. Man…that is so unlike me.”

“Well either way Rantaro, I still have to thank you for saving us.” Kaede thanked with a soft smile.

“Yeah, maybe you aren’t such a bad fella, after all.” Applejack grinned, only to receive a scoff from him.

“Yeah yeah, whatever.” Kaede frowned while Applejack shook her head.

“Really? Well…we just started. After all…” Void’s left eye visor begins glowing darkly in a crimson color. “The main cast has finally arrived.”

“What?” Kaede asked before they heard some load groaning as the three turned around and saw a storm cloud of Umbrums heading out of the Crystal Castle and surrounded around the skies of the empire, mainly at Void.

“MWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!” Void begins laughing maniacally, upsetting the trio.

“What’s so funny, varmint?!” Applejack demanded.

“Oh…it’s just my precious creations. They came to see their ‘Father’ and help him destroy you all…!” Void explained as many Umbrums formed a giant cloud that surrounded him while the others widened their eyes in shock, except for Rantaro.

“Now that’s just unfair…” Rantaro blankly stated.

“’Unfair’? Well…many fights are always unfair, and that leads for others to kill each other and betray.” Void retorted.

“What’s this got to deal with anything?” Kaede questioned, readying her bow. 

“That’s the point. These ponies don’t know anything about the magic of friendship or ‘true hope’ at all. Due to their different personalities, it’s what makes the world imperfect. I am that savior that can bring that dream into reality.” Void explained.

“Yes…indeed!” Soon, a lone Umbrum, which seemed a lot bigger than the other Umbrums stood next to Void before it bowed to him. “And I thank you for finally making your return against those meddlesome creatures that tried to interfere with our works of taking over Equestria, Father.”

“The pleasure is all mine, Rabia.” Void chuckled. “You are my child, and I can’t help but appreciate on a job well done unlike that arrogant Sombra who completely abandoned you all after taking over the Crystal Empire. This was a choice of mistake for him to ever be the one to infiltrate the Crystal Empire.”

“Yes, I know but he is long taken care of along with that boy and his dog, including Hope.” Rabia explained while the other three grew confused on what they were talking about.

“W-What is that thing?” Kaede questioned. “And hold on, ‘that boy and his dog’? Is he talking about Ren and Kodiak?”

“I think so…Wait…” Applejack narrowed their eyes at Void and Rabia. “What is this about them? Why are you bringing them?”

“Are you curious? They’re gone. They’re now trapped within us all.”

“W-What…?!” Kaede exclaimed in fear.

“Oh…right…did we not mentioned that before?” Spike chuckled nervously.

“Ah…I see now. So he’s not dead.” Rantaro muttered. “Even the dog, your precious king, and Hope are trapped inside of that dark cloud of Umbrums, huh?”

“Why are you taking this nonchalantly?!” Applejack demanded, glaring at Rantaro. “Ren and Kodiak are probably captured by those things and you’re just acting like it’s-”

“If you let me finish and stop jumping to conclusions…” Rantaro gave her a scary look with his face looking a bit darkened with his pupils shrinking a bit with a blank look which seemed to shut Applejack up. “They’re not dead, probably. They might still be alive.”

“B-But…how can be so sure?!” Kaede questioned. “I mean, Ren and Kodiak might be well dead!”

“Well probably…” Rantaro shrugs nonchalantly. “But how can we be so sure? They could be lying to you guys right now.”

“Huh?” The two looked at him with confusion, prompting him to sigh in annoyance.

“They could be lying about Ren and Kodiak dead. If you two know that boy and his mutt, then they wouldn’t be taken down that easily.” Rantaro reminded.

“Well…I guess when you put it like that…” Kaede muttered. “I guess…”

“Hmph! So you all are gonna take word from a liar like myself! You saw what I done to them, human, so don’t try to weasel your way out of this one!” Rabia scoffed.

“Wait what?!” Applejack widened her eyes.

“Yeah, so what if I saw it?” Rantaro grinned, shrugging in the process. “It didn’t look like he was dead, including that mutt, Hope, and Sombra.”

“Rantaro, you’re really confusing us right now…” Kaede sighed.

“Well I did see what happened, but…I just don’t know if they’re really alive or not.” Spike shrugged.

“But it doesn’t matter now!” Void sighed, already getting bored right now. “What matters is destroying you all and making sure that none of you stand in my way of creating ‘true hope’.”

“Not if we got something to do with it!”

“Huh?” Applejack blinked.

“Was that…Jack?” Kaede called.

Rantaro turned back before a smiled enter his face upon gazing at what he was seeing. 

“Well what do you know? Looks like our main cast has finally arrived.” The two girls looked at him before turning back and widened their eyes upon seeing Jack walking over with a big mallet in his hands, along with Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie, including many Crystal Ponies who either held scared, confidant, and determined looks.

“Jack?!” Kaede gasped.

“Pinkie Pie? Fluttershy?! What are you all doing here?!” Applejack asked.

“What does it look? We came here to kick some shadow butt.” Jack smugly grinned. “And don’t worry, we got your back.”

“All of us got your back.” Rainbow Dash added, folding her arms with a grin. “And trust me when I say that I’ll take care of this guy. I’m waiting for Round Two for our fight.”

“Which you lost in five seconds and started crying.” Jack scoffed, earning an annoyed look from her.

“W-Well…I’m sure…I can help out…I think…” Fluttershy nodded, shivering a bit in fear.

“And I’ll blast away them!” Pinkie demonstrated by pushing a big party cannon and shooting some confetti out of it, including a giant cake which landed on one of the Umbrum’s head, causing it to fall down and crashed down into the ground.

“…Okay, that’s been proven to be a useful weapon.” Rantaro bluntly commented.

“And the rest of them are willing to fight for what’s right!” Jack grinned, pointing over to the rest of the Crystal Ponies, who cheered loudly while raising their makeshift weapons.

“But I thought those guys were too scared to even fight against this ‘Void’ guy or even his shadow monsters?” Kaede asked before turning to the crowd and raised her hands in the air before saying “No offense.”

The Crystal Ponies either sheepishly chuckled, smiled, or just shrugged.

“Well we managed to get their crystal butts out of their hiding places and make them fight alongside us.” Jack smugly stated. “And now…”

Jack glared towards Void and Rabia, including the rest of the Umbrum Army.

“Well guess what you freak shows? I ain’t leaving this place till you bastards are done for. Now get ready…”

“Yeah! Get ready you freakshows because you’re going to be answering to my face!” Rainbow gloated.

Kaede couldn’t help but smiled at everyone, happy to hear that they would fight with her by her side.

“Phew…about time that I needed back up.” Kaede giggles with a soft smile.

“So they think that just cause they have an army that they can take us down? How stupid of these ponies!” Rabia scoffed. “Father…we shall eliminate these pests that dare try to harm you.”

“Why thank you Rabia…” Void chuckled before glaring down at the gang at the ruined Crystal Faire. “Now then…this is where a true battle shall be held. Get ready to be destroyed…”

“We’ll see who’s talking once we take you down.” Jack scoffed.

“Heh, looks like you finally became useful for once.” Rantaro commented bluntly.

“Shaddup.” Jack hissed.

“Well…I guess we really do need the help.” Applejack grinned.

“Yeah!” Kaede nodded before glaring towards the giant dark cloud of Umbrums, Void, and Rabia. “And we won’t lose…!”

“Yeah…this time…!” Spike grinned determinedly before turning to Fluttershy and whispered “Oh yeah…and how’s Rarity?”

“Oh…she’s back at the house with Mason, Carrie, Nicole, and some other Crystal ponies.” Fluttershy answered.

“Oh…I see. Gotcha. That’s a relief.” Spike sighed in relief. “Well at least they’re alright. If anything bad were to happened to Rarity, Mason, Carrie, Nicole or any of my friends, then I would never forgive myself…but at least I can still fight for them like what we’re about to do!”

Soon, Spike snapped right out of his thoughts as the Umbrum Army was glaring towards them, ready to attack at any time.

The gang all glared towards them, waiting for anything for a call. And in just at that moment…

“Now everypony…! Charge!” 

One of the Crystal Ponies yelled out as everyone charged towards the Umbrum Army, who stormed down into like a hurricane as the two sides prepared to fight while Kaede ready her bow, ready to shoot down her enemies as the battle for the Crystal Empire has just began.



Meanwhile

While everyone was in battle, Twilight managed to sneak in through inside of the Crystal Castle by taking the back entrance that she managed to find and slowly crawled around, trying to avoid getting hurt by the Umbrum Army.

“Alright Twilight, they should be at the balcony. I just hope they’re alright…” Twilight said to herself. “But there’s the possibility that I might get caught by them, or maybe even get killed in the process and I am talking to myself, aren’t I?”

Twilight shook her head before she proceeded to head out to find her way towards the throne room, unaware that some shadows were staring straight at her from behind. 

As she walks through the halls, hiding away from the back of the walls from the Umbrum. As she walks around the place in stealth, some of the Umbrum snuck up against her and soon attacked her.

“Ah-!” And that was the last sound she shouted before falling unconscious.

Somewhere in the throne room, Jamie was nearly conscious from using all of his energy to push back the force that Shining had to helped him out. He, Jamie, and Cadance were in the back of the throne room, hiding away from the Umbrum Army. After they blasted right out of the tunnels and started pouring right out of the Crystal Castle to swarm around the kingdom, they immediately had to hide behind a small secret room in the throne room which was behind the throne.  

The room wasn’t that big at all, and there was barely anything there except for a few dustbunnies, but it was the most best place they could find to keep themselves from being caught by the Umbrum.

“Shining…I’m so tired…” Cadance whined.

“I’m sorry…I let you down…” Jamie coughed, laying on Shining’s back.

“It’s alright you guys, you did your best.” Shining assured before taking a peek out of the door, seeing many Umbrums around the throne room. “Although…this is bad. If we aren’t careful enough, we could end up getting caught.”

Shining looked at his horn and attempted to use his magic, but the black crystals that surrounded from the tips of it were blocking it, preventing him from even doing anything other than using his hooves for violence.

“So…when did you two find this room…?” Jamie asked curiously.

“It was during when we finally came to the empire and explored the castle for the first time that we found this room.” Shining explained. “The best part is that it’s soundproof.”

“Really?” Jamie asked in surprise.

“Yeah…” Cadance nodded before coughing a bit. “But…even so, it’s best to keep quiet for those things outside to not come out.”

“Yeah…” Jamie gulped, peeking out the door to see some of the Umbrum out there, searching out for the three.

“It was a good thing that the moment we saw those things racing out of the castle, we instantly knew that we needed to hide till Shining showed me that secret room behind the throne room.” Jamie thought, sweating down. “But those things…these might be the Umbrum Princess Celestia and Luna talked about. But I thought they were sealed away for good. But if they’re here…”

“It’s my fault…” Jamie sighed sadly, slowly getting out of Shining’s back and leaning against the wall. “If I just kept the barrier up for a little while, then those…things…wouldn’t have come and attacked us before we locked ourselves inside here.”

“Don’t blame yourself Jamie.” Shining assured. “You shouldn’t be doubting yourself. After all, you’re using magic for the first time, right?”

“R-Right…sorry.” Jamie apologized, wiping a sweat off his brow before looking at his hands. “But man…I never would have imagined that I would use magic in the first place.”

“Must’ve came from the same time those cutie-marks appeared.” Shining pointed to his cheeks, which made Jamie blushed a bit.

“H-Hey…! It’s not like I asked for this!” Jamie exclaimed before sighing “You know…this is still all shocking to me. For me to use magic to create such a large barrier. I never would have imagined as a novelist and author such as myself would do something like that.”

“Well…maybe you’re special Jamie.” Cadance smiled weakly at him.

“I don’t want to boast, but I guess I am special in a way due to writing many novels and books about mysteries.” Jamie shrugs. “But either way…I just hope that Twilight is alright…along with Ren and Mason.”

“I’m sure they’re alright.” Shining smiled softly before deciding to tease him about it. “What’s wrong? You worry that my sister might get hurt?”

“H-Huh?! Well…I was just curious, that’s all!” Jamie blushed. 

“Heh heh, don’t worry.” Shining assured, slugging him in the arm.

“Ow…” Jamie muttered, rubbing his right arm bashfully.

“So…how are you two getting along?” Shining asked curiously.

“Shining…” Princess Cadance raised a brow. 

“Don’t worry…it’s nothing personal.” Shining chuckled. “Besides…while we’re in here safe and sound, we might as well talk.”

“O-Oh…well…” Jamie smiled softly. “We’ve been acting like our normal selves, really. Nothing personal. It’s not like I’m planning on marrying her because that would be completely ridiculous considering that we just met for several months and so!”

“Ha ha, no need to worry.” Shining winked before making a suspicious look. “But you know…I would be taken by surprise if you really married her out of the unexpected.”

“N-No…I would never.” Jamie shake his head before stating “But didn’t you do that too? You just told her about you and Princess Cadance’s wedding like out of the blue the day we started setting it up.”

“…Huh, touche.” Shining shrugged.

“Heh heh…it’s only been a month, but it feels like a long time.” Cadance chuckled. 

“Yeah, I’ll say.” Shining smiled before frowning.

“Something wrong?” Jamie asked, breathing slowly but he was slowly recovering. 

“Well…it’s just that…I can’t help but feel like Twily is still mad of me.” Shining sighed. 

“Is…this because of what happened?” Jamie guessed, which made Shining winced before nodding.

“Yeah…I sided with the enemy through that disguise of her and I felt like a loser when I remembered what I said to her…” Shining looked down sadly. “I really hurt Twily’s feelings.”

“Hey…you don’t have to feel sad…” Jamie muttered, rubbing his arm bashfully before slowly getting off his feet. “I mean…she told me that she forgave you, and she felt guilty for letting her superstition get the better of her. She should at least stayed calm and not do anything rash, so the fault was on her…well, that’s what she said.”

“Really?” Shining asked in surprise, looking at Jamie.

“Yeah…she still cares about you and still thinks about you. I know that…I would know about sibling relationship by experience.” Jamie softly smiled. 

“Oh, so do you have a sibling…?” Cadance asked curiously.

“Yes…24 sisters, to be exact.” That caught both Shining and Cadance off-guard upon hearing that till Jamie added “And don’t worry…most of them are half-sisters, foster, or even step.”

“Oh, I see…” Shining chuckled, scratching the back of his head sheepishly. “It must be nice having siblings, huh?”

“Yes…especially since they care about you.” Jamie sadly frowned. “It’s just that…I never had a good childhood…the only ones who ever cared me were my sisters. I…I really missed them…and I sometimes wonder if they’re looking for me right now.”

“Jamie…” Cadance frowned soflty before coughing a bit.

“Come on, you wouldn’t know that for sure.” Shining stated. “I mean, you said that they love you right, so wouldn’t they be thinking of you and could possibly be looking for you right now?”

“Maybe but…” Shining walked over to Jamie with a stern look. 

“Jamie…stop that. Doubting yourself isn’t a good thing. I would know because I doubted myself of ever joining the Royal Guard Academy because I would miss my sister a lot, but…” Shining softly smiled. “But Twily gave me the courage to continue on and I was happy to ever become Captain of the Royal Guard.”

“And you said that Twilight might’ve been upset with you…” Cadance teased with a weak smile, causing Shining to cough sheepishly while Jamie softly smiled at the two. 

“I see your point, and…thank you.” Jamie smiled.

“Anytime.” Shining nodded. “Oh, and one more thing…”

“Huh?” Jamie looked at him with a confused look before seeing the serious look on his face.

“If…anything ever happens to me…take good care of Twily, please?” Jamie blinked in shock, seeing the look he was giving them. Before long, Jamie gulped and nodded in understanding.

“Hey…are they still out there?” Cadance asked curiously.

“Beats me.” Shining shrugged before turning to Jamie. “Hey Jamie, do you mind if you gone and check it out?”

“Sure thing.” Jamie nodded before he walked over and peeked out of the door before slowly widening his eyes in horror upon seeing who was in there.

“T-T-Twilight?!” Jamie exclaimed in shock.

Shining and Cadance froze before peeking out from the secret door and widened their eyes upon seeing Twilight being dragged in with a chain wrapped around her neck while the Umbrum that captured her brought her over, one of them holding the end of the chain.

“Let go of me…!” Twilight hissed, trying to break from the chain, but the Umbrum tugged the chain, causing her to fall on the floor.

“Quiet you! You have no right to speak!” The Umbrum glared at her, upsetting Jamie, Shining, and Cadance.

“Twilight!”

“Twily!”

Jamie, Shining Armor, and Cadance rushed out from the secret room before rushing over and stepped in between Twilight.

“Guys?! What are you…?!” Twilight gasped.

“So you little cretins decided to come out, huh? Well then…” The Umbrum growled. “Prepare to die…!”

“Twily, stand back!” Shining called, glaring straight at the Umbrums. 

“But you guys…I’m sorry…” Twilight apologized. “I tried to come over and…”

“Don’t blame yourself, Twilight.” Jamie assured before glaring at the Umbrum with a serious look. “I won’t let these guys hurt you anymore. Now let go of her!”

“What’s the point? She’s our prisoner now.” The Umbrum laughed, along with his other comrades.

“You…!” Jamie exclaimed. “How could you?!”

“Because we feel like it. Exactly like how father would like it!” One of the Umbrums laughed manically. 

“You think this is fun?” Jamie asked, glaring at them. “What’s wrong with you guys?”

“That’s life. We can manipulate life as much as we want to others no matter what. Who cares what we do. It’s your fault that you all have to be born. You all don’t understand the true meaning of hope or even friendship at all.” One of the Umbrums scoffed.

“You monsters!” Cadance shouted.

“You’re gonna pay for this for hurting my Twily!” Shining growled.

“And what can you do? You’re nothing without your magic!” The Umbrums laughed, causing Jamie to clench his fists in anger.

“I…have been listening to you all go on and on…” Jamie glares at them before shouting “Just shut your goddamn mouth, you frigging monsters!”

Soon, his eyes glowed dark blue along with his cutie-marks before holding his hand out, making the remaining Umbrum that captured Twilight to float in the air.

“W-What the?!” One of the Umbrum screeched before everyone in the throne room turned to Jamie, who looked at them with a serious look before closing his palm, causing the Umbrum to explode in a cloud of dust.

“Whoa!” Shining exclaimed.

“J-Jamie…!” Twilight widened her eyes in shock before the chain around her neck disappeared. She felt relief before seeing Jamie collapsed on the floor, falling on his knees. “Jamie!”

Twilight, Shining, and Cadance rushes over to his side and helped him out.

“Are you okay?!” Cadance asked in concern.

“Y-Yeah….I think so.” Jamie coughed. “W-What just happened?”


“Are you kidding?! You just somehow made them float in the air and destroy them in one move!” Shining Armor pointed out.

“Jamie…that was amazing! Never in my life as a Unicorn witnessed such magical powers!” Twilight complimented, earning a blush from the blue-haired boy. 

“O-Oh…i-it was nothing Twilight.” Jamie smiled softly before earning a confused look. “S-So wait…I did all that?”

“You didn’t even realize that?” Shining asked in surprise before punching him in the shoulder. “I gotta say, I probably should not mess with you when you’re angry.”

“Huh…” Jamie looked at his hands with a surprise look, opening and closing his palms. “I…guess I’m slowly recovering much of this new power I had.”

“I’ll say!” Twilight smiled.

“Wait…Twilight, what are you doing here? And where’s Mason and Ren?” Cadance asked in concern.

“Mason stayed behind to protect the rest of the citizens from those Umbrums.” Twilight explained.

“Huh? How do you know about the Umbrums?” Jamie asked in surprise.

“Some old mare told me about it…Wait, how do you know about the Umbrums?” Twilight questioned, earning confused looks from Shining and Cadance.

“U-Umm…well…” Before long, more Umbrums appeared from the shadows of the throne room.

“Dang it! They gotten us surrounded!” Shining hissed.

“Well I guess we have no choice but to fight, right?” Cadance asked.

“B-But Cadance…” Shining tried to reason with her, but she shook her head with a soft smile.

“Don’t worry…I’ve been recovering very slowly while Jamie took my role from me, so I gained a little bit of my magic.” Cadance assured.

“And I managed to have some magic left in me!” Twilight grinned. “So what if we’re surrounded? It was my fault to coming here when I knew the danger here.”

“Same here…” Jamie nodded with a serious look. “I…will try to fight as much as I can.”

“You guys…” Shining groaned before smiling at them. “Fine…I guess I got no choice then, huh?”

“No.” They answered bluntly.

“Thought so…” Shining shrugged.

“Right…” Jamie nodded before clenching on his fists. “I’m ready now…”

The Umbrum all hissed at them as they charged at the four, who prepared to fight back at them.

“This time…I won’t run away!” Jamie thought with a determined and confidant look as they prepared to fight off more Umbrums that entered the throne room.



Meanwhile
Ren’s P.O.V.

…..Ugh….man…my head….

….Huh?

What in the…? Am I still blacked out? Why is the entire room all blacked out?

Huh? Wait…am I floating in mid-air on my back?

“Hey…hey…hey…hey…” H-Huh? I looked around the place but there was nothing around. Oh crap-baskets, am I hearing things?

“Hey…hey…hey!” Okay, who keeps saying that? “Hey you…can you…hear me…?”

Suddenly, a faint speck of light soon floated down towards me, causing me to gasp in surprise. Whoa, where have I seen this from before?

“Those Umbrums…those shadows you fought…they were made by Void…the being that’s been watching you all for a long time…is attacking your friends…”

“Huh?” I asked in surprise.

“Don’t worry…you can still save them…you each have the power to fight against Void and his shadow monsters.” Huh? Is that true? What power? There’s something in each of us? And…who’s this Void? And…why does his name sound so familiar?

“Your powers…grew weak…and I’m still not here…but…I’ll be sure to see you all again…But…you…can…still…fight on…Use…the power…of the…heart…to…save…your…friends…”

I blinked in confusion before the speck of light starting glowing into…

“The Crystal Heart?” I sputtered out, seeing it right before my eyes. So wait…was that voice telling me from inside of the heart, or…?

“The Crystal Heart….a heart made from the hope and light of all…can be use to defeat Void and the Umbrums.” The voice spoken, the speck of light swirling around me.

“Really?” I asked curiously. “But…didn’t it power drain? How can I use it?”

“Find your remaining friends…and they’ll help you bring some light into it…”

“Huh…okay.” I nodded before checking my surroundings. “So…where am I exactly?”

“You are inside the Umbrum.” Wait what?! I’m inside of those shadow things that Celeste and Lulu told me about?! Well…this isn’t good. Wait…I think I remember a bit of trying to save Sombra and his friend, Hope, along with Kodiak but…we gotten attacked by a hurricane filled with Umbrum and then…I blacked out.

So I’ve been inside of them for who knows how long? Huh…freaky.

“I’m…sorry…my power….is weakening….I’m…afraid…I…won’t…talk to you…any longer…” The voice started acting static-y, almost like the communication between us is about to get cut-off. “Please…hurry…the fate…of Equestria…to prevent…the Great Fall…again…will soon…come…”

“Hey wait!” I called, but the voice gave no response. “Hello?!…Voice?! Are you still there?!”

…….

……Aaaaand now, it’s gone. That speck of light disappeared in a flash. So it’s just me and this Crystal Heart. Hmm…but what can I do? Hm? Oh hey, I still got my Hacking Gun.

I took it out from my pants and looked at with a curious look before letting out a small nod. I know what I must do. 

I need to find them around this place before it’s too late. I just hope my friends are doing just fine. Now….where can I go first?

Well…I guess I can try finding a way out of here…

I slowly began falling down from mid-air and landed on the ground. Huh…it’s really weird standing on a blackless ground when you find yourself in a creepy place with nothing but darkness around you.

With the Crystal Heart in my hands, I’m sure I can find a way to get out of here and place it in the pedestal in time as well as trying to find a way to power it back on.

I looked around, wondering which where I should go. Suddenly, I heard a faint voice…one that I was all too familiar…

“Help…me…” 

“Ah! Kodiak!” I gasped before immediately turning around, seeing a portal behind me. That sounds like he’s coming out from there, I have to go and save him!

I quickly held my Hacking Gun up close to my face before quickly running straight into the portal as blinding darkness wrapped around me, causing me to close my eyes and cover my face with my arms before uncovering them before noticing my surroundings.

“What am I doing back inside the Crystal Castle?” I asked, finding myself in the throne room. I don’t get it…why here? Wait…that’s in the air.

“Kodi…?” I called, seeing him floating on his back but…his whole body looked nearly dead. Almost as if it was fading away in existence. 

I’m not sure what’s going on, but I need to find a way to help him as soon as I can!

Suddenly, a bunch of  Umbrums appeared out of nowhere and slowly descended towards Kodiak, causing me to gasp before glaring at them.

“Hey! Leave my friend alone!” I shouted, gaining their attention. 

They hissed at me before charging towards me.

I quickly took out my Hacking Gun before firing some ‘Break’ bullets at them.

“Break!” I shouted, shooting straight at them before they made contact of it and gotten blown up. The remaining Umbrums tried to bite me or even tried to tackle me, but I kept dodging it before changing the dial before using another ‘Truth’ bullet.

“Link!” I shouted, shooting the ‘Link’ bullet at one of the Umbrums, but once it made contact, it didn’t work. 

“What? It didn’t work? I don’t understand…!” I shouted, blinking in shock before getting tackled by one of the Umbrums as it tried to bite. I widened my eyes in shock and tried to reach for my Hacking Gun while avoiding getting bitten by it.

Soon enough, I managed to finally grabbed my Hacking Gun before aiming it straight at its head.

“Okay! Take this! Break!” I shot a ‘Break’ bullet straight at its head, causing it to disperse. The two remaining Umbrums charged again but I changed the dial again. “Now! Burn!”

I shot multiple ‘Burn’ bullets at the two, causing them to each burn into ashes before dispersing. I let out a smile that I managed to take them down before seeing Kodiak, who was still floating in the air unconsciously.

Before long, a strange creature appeared before him that was a lot different from the rest of the Umbrum. This one nearly looked like he was half-pony and half-human, carrying a large scythe in his hoof-like hands. It’s whole appearance was dark black with a tint of gray just like the rest of the Umbrum, but its eyes were glowing yellow.

“….Oh…my…god…” I muttered with widened eyes as it slowly descended towards Kodiak, raising its scythe. Oh crap-baksets! It’s going to kill him! 

“Hey! Leave him alone!” I raised my Hacking Gun straight at him before shooting a ‘Paralyze’ bullet at it, nearly paralyzing it’s entire body. It hissed angrily at me before breaking out of the effects before charging towards me with the scythe in hands…I mean, hooves…I mean…well…

“AH!” I shrieked before ducking from the attack and immediately ran off, trying my best to avoid getting sliced in half by that thing. It let out a loud roar and tried killing me, letting down its scythe once more but I managed to use a ‘Break’ bullet straight at its chest, nearly fazing it as it felt distracted by that attack of mine.

“Okay! Burn!” I shot multiple ‘Burn’ Bullets straight at its chest, nearly making it go down till it managed to create a powerful shock-wave to drive me away as I fell down on my back, dropping my Hacking Gun in the process.

Oh come on! Again?!

Suddenly, that giant scythe wielding monster noticed me collapsing before attempting to finally kill me, but I rolled to the right to avoid getting hit before immediately running past him and went back to get my Hacking Gun, but the monster started tailing me and tried to kill slice me, but I managed to dodge roll out of that and finally grabbed my Hacking Gun before aiming at it.

“Break!” I fired the final shot, and this one was really powerful to finally take it down before it began disappearing and faded away. I let out a heavy pant and nearly fell on my butt, trying to catch my breath before standing back up and headed towards for Kodiak, who was slowly fallng down on the ground till I caught him.

“Kodiak! You okay boy!?” I asked in concern, shaking him a few times before noticing his tail twitching a bit as he slowly woken up.

“Ugh…what just happened?” Kodi muttered, looking around in confusion before noticing me. “Ren!”

Before long, he tackled and pinned me to the ground before he begins licking my face, causing me to laugh before shouting “Kodiak! Hey! Okay! Down boy!”

“Sorry.” Kodi apologized before getting off of me as I lifted myself up. I then smiled towards him before petting him on the head, causing him to pant happily before giving me one last lick to the face. 

“Well I’m glad to see you at least boy.” I chuckled before standing back up as he asked “I’ll say, but…what are we doing here in the throne room?”

“That’s what I’m wondering.” I replied, shrugging before noticing a faint glow from the Crystal Heart. I took it out of my sweater pockets and looked at it, seeing it slowly turning a bit blue. “Huh? The Crystal Heart?”

“Whoa…it’s glowing a bit!” Kodi pointed out, sniffing it a bit. “But…I thought that it was drained out of its magic once that pony placed it inside that lock.”

“Yeah…but why now?” I wondered before noticing a portal appearing in front of us. “Huh?”

“Whoa, what is that?” Kodi asked in awe.

“That looks like a portal.” I answered before I walked towards it. “Hey Kodi…do you wanna come?”

“Are you kidding? Of course! You can’t leave me here!” Kodi barked, causing me to wince a bit before smiling nervously at him and replied “Right…sorry. It was stupid of me to ask.”

“Well…I understand where you’re going with this, but no matter.” Kodi walked next to me before looking straight at the portal. “So…do we go in or…?”

“Well yeah…” I shrugged before slowly placing my hand inside of it and soon went through it with Kodiak following me as the two of us soon embraced through the blind darkness once more, and I finally find myself in…

“Huh…?” I called, finding ourselves in the Crystal Faire. “What are we doing out here?”

“What are we doing out here? And…where’s everypony?” Kodi wondered, looking around the place before something caught our eyes. “What the?!”

Before long, we saw a purple coated azure mane colored pony floating in the air, unconscious while she laid on her back. 

“Hey…isn’t that Hope?” I blinked in confusion before we walked over to her. “Did she get send here within the Umbrums as well?”

“Wait…’within the Umbrums’?” Kodi asked.

“Oh…well, you see…we’re inside of the Umbrums.” I explained, shocking him.

“Wait what?! We’ve been eaten alive by them?!” Kodi gaped.

“Well…I’m not sure about that, but it’s more like we’re trapped within them.” I shrugged before scratching the back of my head. “I don’t know how this works…”

Before belong, multiple Umbrums appeared around her and attempted to kill her. However, I noticed that one of them was more darker than the rest of them. Hmm…seeing these things just reminded me those creepy horses from Rise of the Guardians. Only except they’re more deadly…

“Whoa! It’s those same monsters that escaped from the doors!” Kodi shouted in shock, gaining the rest of the Umbrums. “Oops…”

“Don’t worry Kodiak, we’ll be fine.” I assured with a soft smile before taking out my Hacking Gun and handed him the Crystal Heart by placing it on his back. “Just get the Crystal Heart out of here before they might try to get it.”

“Okay!” Kodi nodded before racing out of there as I aimed by Hacking Gun at them. 

“Alright…Break!” I shot multiple Break Bullets straight at them, eliminating one of the monsters before the five of them charged towards them. I quickly turned the dial before using…

“Knock-Back!” I shot a powerful wind blow, blowing them away before they crashed into the ground. I then switched the dial and aimed straight at one of the Umbrums. “Burn!”

I fired some ‘Burn’ bullets, causing it to burn before fading away while the other four slowly gotten up. The darker Umbrum let out a roar, forcing the other three to charge towards me.

“Oh yeah? Paralyze!” I fired a ‘Paralyze’ bullet at the remaining three, shocking them before they exploded into small bits of dust. The darker Umbrum let out a monstrous roar before charging at me.

I aimed straight at it before shooting some ‘Break’ bullets at it, but it kept dodging before tackling me and sending me flying off across the floor. I managed to get back up before that thing started flying straight towards me.

“Link…!” I shouted, firing a heart-shaped bullet towards them, but the bullet was destroyed by that Umbrum once it made contact with it.

I don’t understand! Why is the ‘Link’ bullet not working on these guys?! I feel like that this is a slight error! 

I quickly rolled to the left, avoiding getting crushed by its hooves as I immediately stood up and attempted to escaped from that thing. I quickly ran across the area, avoiding getting attacked by that darker Umbrum. 

I immediately climbed on top of one of the booths and began jumping across with each of the booths while the darker Umbrum kept destroying everything in its path. I managed to jump down back from the ground and quickly headed back to where Hope and Kodiak were, and that monster were chasing him. 

“Ren! Shoot it!” Kodi yelled.

“I-I’m trying…!” I shouted back before taking out my Hacking Gun and shooting some ‘Break’ bullets, but it kept dodging it and attempted to bite me. However, I began dodge-rolling before managing to get past it and aimed for its face.

“Paralyze!” I shouted, shooting an electrical bullet at it, causing it freeze in shock. “Got you! Now….take this! Break!”

I shot a Break bullet straight at its face, causing it fall down and collapsed on its back before it slowly began fading away. 

Phew…finally…gotcha…

“You did it Ren! You finally beat it!” Kodi laughed, running towards me as I fell on my butt and tried to catch my breath while Kodi nuzzled me. I let out a small smile and chuckled before we saw Hope slowly falling from mid-air and landed on the ground softly.

“Hope!” I shouted, quickly getting back up and helped her up. “Are you okay…?”

“Ngh…” Hope slowly opened her eyes and once she did…she squinted her eyes and said “Sombra….?”

“No…I’m not Sombra. I’m Ren. Ren Loodan.” I corrected her with a soft smile.

“Huh?!” She gasped before immediately getting out of my hands and looked at me fearfully. “W-Who are you…?! And…where am I?”

“Well…remember when we got swept up by those Umbrums?” I questioned. “Well…we’re inside of them.”

“What?!” Hope gasped with widened eyes before placing her hooves on her head with a slightly panicky look on her face. “No no no, this can’t be happening! Then…it really was a trap! I really fell for their lies!”

“Hey hey, calm down. Don’t feel bad.” I assured with a soft grin. “We’ll get out of here.”

“But…why?” Hope questioned, confusing me. “Why save me then…? I mean…do you even know who I am?”

“Well Sombra told me your name when we first saw you when I reunited with my friends.” I explained. “So yeah.”

“I see your point…but why bother helping me? I’m your enemy.” Hope stated sadly before getting back up and looked around the area. “Wait…this place…”

“Do you recognize it?” Kodi asked, walking over to her with a worried look.

“…This is where me and Sombra would go every year whenever the Crystal Faire took place.” Hope explained, looking around in some of the booths that weren’t destroyed by that monster. “…So…did he do this? Is this a way to just toy with me even more?”

“Hope…” I walked over to her with a concern look and asked “Did…something happened?”

“Yeah…I remember a time where Sombra and I would come here, have fun, him getting sick and me tending to his illness. I always loved it…I loved being around him as his friend. Well…his first friend to be exact.”

So…Sombra was an outcast at the time during his time here in the Crystal Empire? I’m starting to see that now. 

“Sombra…I’m sorry…” Hope sniffled, looking down sadly. “It’s all my fault….if I hadn’t found the Umbrum’s world, then I wouldn’t fall for their tricks and be used as their puppet…”

“Hey, don’t feel bad. You didn’t know.” I assured, placing a hand on her shoulder but she swatted it away and glared at me. 

“What would you know?! You never saw me there! All my life that I’ve been used by Rabia and the rest of the Umbrums to have me released them to Equestria! But after learning about their true nature and everything about Sombra…I know that it was all a lie! I…I….It’s all my fault…!”

Hope begins to let out tears, like she was holding them back all along. I think I’m beginning to understand her…

“Hope…I know that we just met…but you don’t have to cry.” I stated, which made her look at me with tears still flowing down her eyes.

“And why can’t I cry?! All I just wanted to help Sombra and bring him back! I wanted to save and bring back the Sombra I used to know and love! I…I wanted to see him…! And it’s all thanks to my naivety that I let this happened…!” Hope cried out.

“Hope…” Kodi muttered.

I stared at her for a good while before smiling softly and walking over to her and gave her a soft hug, which caught her by surprise.

“You don’t have to keep crying. I’m sure we can find a way to help your friend unlike what they told you.” I said with a soft smile.

“But…why? Why are you willing to help me? You barely even know me.” Hope stated.

“True…but you looked like you were feeling upset and sad at the same time, and besides…I know that it wasn’t your fault. People and ponies like you needs some kindness to sympathize with them.” I smiled before we ended our hug. “Besides, I had doubts of Sombra of ever being pure evil too. I mean, after what Princess Celestia and Luna told me and Jamie about the Crystal Empire and King Sombra, I couldn’t help but wonder why he was so evil and wanted to take over the empire. Since we never gotten a clarification for that, I knew that I needed to find out for myself.” 

“Huh?” Hope stared at me with a shocked look. “You…had some faith that Sombra might’ve been not necessarily evil.”

“Yeah…and I’m gonna try to help him. Even villains need some sympathy…well maybe pure evil villains too, but you know.” I shrugged.

“….Thank you.” Hope smiled softly. 

“It’s nothing…I just wanna help you. I know that you’re just misunderstood, so I’m sure we can find a way to help you and Sombra.” I nodded before noticing the Crystal Heart started glowing a bit brighter than usual. “Whoa…some of its light is being restored…”

“What?” Hope stared at the Crystal Heart with a surprised look before another portal appeared before us. “A portal…but…where will this lead us?”

“Don’t worry. I’m sure I know where this one will lead…and I think we need to be ready…” I gulped before we slowly began making our way towards it. 

“Are you sure Ren?” Kodi asked in worried.

I gave my pal a soft smile before nodding.

“Don’t worry, I’m sure we’ll be alright.” I assured before turning to Hope. “Say Hope…do you wanna come with us?”

“Huh?” Hope looked at me with bewilderment as I smiled and let out my hand towards her.

“Well?” I chuckled.

Hope just stared at me before smiling softly and nodded before grabbing my hand with her hoof.

“Right…let’s go.” Hope nodded before we began walking into the portal. “…For Sombra.”

She really must care for Sombra and I can understand that feeling. I want to protect my friends no matter what, and that’ll be something I’ll be able to do with everyone by my side.

I’m not alone…I have everyone with me and I know that we can succeed. We may be here in Equestria, but…our friends and families are waiting for me. My sister, my brother, mom, and dad are hoping that I’ll be home and that I promised. I won’t let them down…

Soon, darkness soon blinded us all as we waited for it to be over once we crossed towards the portal before finding ourselves…

“What?” Hope asked in surprise, finding us nowhere but inside of what looks like an orphanage. “This is…!”

“Do you know this place Hope?” Kodi asked, sniffing around the place.

“This is…the orphanage! The place where me and Sombra met!” Hope gasped. “But…why here?”

“I don’t know…does it mean something?” I wondered before noticing someone right in front of us. “Wait….is that…?!”

“Sombra?!” Hope gasped. 

He was right there, standing while his back was turned. Strange…I would imagine that he would be floating in mid-air while sleeping like Kodiak and Hope. So…why is he standing around like that?

Suddenly, I heard Kodiak growling towards him.

“Is there something wrong Kodiak?” I asked in confusion.

“There’s something off about him…I smell something off about him…” Kodi replied, glaring towards Sombra. Huh? Wait, is there something wrong with him?

“Sombra!” Before any of us could respond, Hope ran towards Sombra with a hopeful look on her face as she tried to reach for him, but the moment he turned around…

“Crystal…heart…” Oh my god…

“….Sombra?” Hope’s eyes slowly widened as her pupils shrank in fear upon seeing Sombra’s face. His eyes looked completely dead but showed off those green scary eyes of his. 

Jeez…he looks like a zombie and reminds me of that character…You know, just thinking of that game is just making me regret of ever watching the series. Like seriously, it was so messed up…! Why would I even watch it?! Well…it’s my own fault for ever watching so gory as Corpse Party…Dammit, now I’m starting to remember the-

“GIVE ME MY CRYSTAL HEART!” Sombra roared before his horn started glowing, shooting Hope away with a powerful beam as she slid down through the ground and landed near me.

“Hope!” Me and Kodi yelled, racing to her aide as she slowly gotten up and winced from the pain.

“S-Sombra…what’s wrong?” Hope asked weakly. “Why…did you…?”

“It’s…my…destiny…my destiny…to destroy all life in this world…” Oh god…he’s really gone insane! 

“Hope…Kodiak…you two need to hide.” The two looked at me with surprised looks as I held a serious expression on my face and said “You two need to hide like, right now. Whatever’s happening to Sombra is making him not feel like himself.”

Well sure, I mean, he’s evil but the look at his face tells me that he’s being controlled by those guys who trapped us in here.

“W-What? No…let me-”

“I’m sorry Hope, but you have to trust me.” I remarked, cutting her off. “Right now, Sombra won’t listen to us and isn’t even respond back to us so it looks like we have no choice but to fight…but I don’t want to see you two get hurt like how you already are, Hope.”


“But-”

“I’m sorry…but trust me on this one.” I smiled softly and nodded to her. “Don’t worry…I’ll be sure to get you back the Sombra you knew and love as a friend.”

Hope looked at me with her mouth gaped before it formed into a smile and nodded. With that, I handed her the Crystal Heart and said “Keep it safe.”

“Okay.” Hope nodded.


Don’t worry, I trust her with it. I believe in her.

“Okay, good luck Ren!” Kodi gestured Hope to follow him as the two ran off and headed to the sidelines while I stood there in front of Sombra, who glared at me as his eyes glowed fiercer than ever.

I readied my Hacking Gun as the two of us prepared to have a clash between with each other. 

A battle between my hopes and his despair…

“Crystal Heart…I need it…I need it to complete my mission to destroy all life in Equestria….IT’S MY DESTINY!” 

Sombra let out a loud yell as the whole ground started turning distorted with many cracks on the ground and the sky turning red with me looking at him with a surprise look before he looked at me with a sadistic and cruel smile.

“My destiny….MY DESTINY!”

Well…this might take a while.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 63 - The Crystal Empire Part 5
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Previously on My Little Pony: Ren’s Adventures In Equestria

“So…you’re Radiant Hope?”

“What is this place?”

“This tunnel…“

“Yeah, we can think of that later! Now let’s get the hell out of here!”

“Wait…Rainbow Dash…?!”

“I don’t know! She was acting like that since that black masked weirdo touched her and done something to make her see something!”

“N-Not moving?!”

“Maybe we were sleeping?”

“Hey…you don’t have to feel sad…I mean…she told me that she forgave you, and she felt guilty for letting her superstition get the better of her.”

“I’m sorry…my power…is weakening..I’m afraid…I won’t…talk to you…any longer…”

“But…why? Why are you willing to help me? You barely even know me.”

“True…but you looked like you were feeling upset and sad at the same time, and besides…I know that it wasn’t your fault. People and ponies like you needs some kindness to sympathize with them.”

“Crystal Heart…I need it…I need it to complete my mission to destroy all life in Equestria…IT’S MY DESTINY!”

“My destiny…MY DESTINY!”


My Little Pony: Ren’s Adventures In Equestria




“Oh my god!” I screamed, quickly dodging Sombra’s dark magic beam as I was running away from him.

“GIVE ME BACK MY CRYSTAL HEART YOU FOOLISH BEING!” Sombra demanded with the craziest look you would ever seen.

“Okay, can’t we just talk about this?!” I begged before quickly aiming my Hacking Gun at him. “I don’t want to hurt you dude, but you’re kinda making me do this the hard way instead of the easy way.”

“You dare speak to me?” Oh boy…I don’t like the tone of that voice. “YOU DARE SPEAK TO ME LIKE THAT?!”

Yep…he’s really upset. I’m so in trouble, am I? Oh well…I knew this wasn’t going to be easy anyway in the first place.

“Um…Break!” I squeaked, firing a ‘Break’ bullet straight at him, but Sombra used his dark magic beam to destroy it for good.

“So…you want to play it that game? I see…well prepare to die.” Sombra grinned cruelly before his horn started glowing as something came out of his shadow and took the form of a black sword with a red handle and a glowing green eye on the hilt. 

“When did this turn into Sword Art Online?!” I exclaimed in shock. 

“Ren, run!” Kodi yelled out.

“I’m already on it, boy!” I quickly ran out of the way before Sombra could slice his dark sword straight down where I last stood. 

“Hold still boy! Let me kill you!” Sombra demanded.

“Dude, just chill out! We’re all trying to help you!” I called, hoping to get that through his skull, but he gave me a death glare and scowled at me.

“Help? I don’t need help from a hairless freakshow like you!” Again with that…does people like calling us that? I mean, it’s starting to upset me a little on being called like that. Oh crap, it’s the sword again.

I quickly raised my Hacking Gun and used it block the hit as he started pushing me back, causing me to grit my teeth and struggle.

“Sombra…Stop it!” Hope begged, looking at Sombra from afar with a scared and concern look. “This isn’t you!”

“Of course it is, Hope…this is the real me that I was destined to be.” Sombra grinned darkly, staring straight at me with his eyes glowing green…in a creepy way. “I was destined to be the ruler of Equestria, destroying all my enemies and those who opposes me…I shall destroy them all…”

“Sombra, please!” Hope kept pleading, nearly at the verge of tears. “I know that you wouldn’t want to hurt you! The Umbrum and Rabia are using you and making you do all these things! You need to remember!”

“She’s right…! If she’s really your best friend, what about the good memories you two had?!” I asked as well, glaring at Sombra as I tried pushing myself back to him against his sword. “Was that all…just pointless?!”

“I don’t need a foolishly foolish fool and Hope to tell me what to do!” Wait, did he just make a Phoenix Wright reference? Well I’m sure he doesn’t know, but not to me, I do. “Now…die you foolish mortal!”

“Ah!” I flinched before falling on my butt, dropping my Hacking Gun as it slid away far away from me.

“This time…I will rule Equestria just as I was destined to!” Oh crap-baskets! This really isn’t good…! I can’t die…! I can’t let my friends down! “You fools will not get in my way and Hope can stand by my side as my queen…just like we want…”

Sombra begins laughing hard as his sword prepares to finish me off till something but him on the flank, causing him to scream loudly before turning to see Kodiak biting onto his flank.

“You stupid mutt! Let go of me!” Sombra demanded as he attempts to shake him off till he managed to lift his sword and…No! 

“Leave him alone! Paralyze!” I raised the Hacking Gun in front of him before firing a ‘Paralyze’ bullet at him, straight at the horn, which caused Sombra to roar in pain and be electrocuted. Kodiak saw this and quickly let go of Sombra’s flank while he was being electrocuted.

“Sombra!” Hope called, rushing over and trying to help him. “Sombra! Are you okay?!”

“You…insignificant….foolish…mortal!” Sombra screamed, creating a powerful shockwave that blasted Hope and Kodiak away, even I flinched from it before seeing the evil craze look from his face. “You think you’re all so slick?! Well guess what?! I’ll kill every one of you to show to never mess with me!”

Sombra charges as I quickly dodge rolled his attacks from both his magic spells and the sword that he was lifting by levitation.

“Ren! Quick! Shoot him in the horn again!” Kodi yelled.

“Huh?” I blinked in confusion before realizing that my ‘Paralyze’ bullet affected him greatly when it landed on his horn. “Oh right…! Thansk boy!”

“Look out!” Hope shouted, causing me to quickly turn around and see him firing a dark magic beam at me.

“Whoa!” I quickly got out of the way before seeing him disappearing from the shadows. “Huh? Where did he go?”

Wait, this is just like that one boss fight where the character always disappears and attempts to-

“Gotcha now!” Oh crap-baskets! I quickly looked back and saw him appearing out of my shadow with a cruel and dark smirk on his face. He fired a magic beam from my back, causing me to scream in pain before falling on the ground.

I gritted my teeth and attempted to get back up, but couldn’t. Oh man…did he somehow paralyze me with his own dark magic?

“You foolish mortal…you cause quite the trouble for me.” Sombra scoffed, walking over to me with the sword floating around him in circles. “Say…how about we play a little game?”

“I’m not liking where this is going…” I grunted before gulping in worry. 

“You give me the Crystal Heart, and I’ll let you all go.” Sombra proposed. 

“Huh?!” Kodi asked in surprise.

“Sombra, no! You do realize that we need it in order to help save our home!” Hope exclaimed.

“Home? What home?” Sombra scoffed. “I never had a home anywhere…I am an Umbrum…and my destiny was chosen by Rabius. Their destinies were carved by Father when we were created many centuries ago.”

I’m not sure who their ‘Father’ is, but I’m pretty sure whoever it is is definitely not a good person if he created dark beings like them and Sombra, and I mean no offense to him.

“Sombra, that isn’t-”

“IT IS!” Sombra cried out, cutting Hope out as she stares at Sombra with a shocked and hurtful look. “Nobody was willing to accept me anywhere! Despite being a pony, nobody accepted me…but even so, it wouldn’t matter since I would one day unleash the Umbrum Army upon the world just like what I was told.”

“If so…why didn’t you…?” Sombra stopped himself before turning to me as I stared right into his green eyes with a serious and calm look. “You had…plenty of chances when you…ruled over…the Crystal Empire…you could have…used the Crystal Heart…to unlock the door in the underground room…”

“Your point…?” Sombra questioned.

“Why? Why couldn’t…you do it? You sounded…like you knew where it…was…but even so…you didn’t unlock the door by using the power of the Crystal Heart…Was it maybe…you refused to do it…?”

Sombra continued to stare at me with a raised brow as I continued on my explanation.

“If so, then I know…why…it’s because…you didn’t want to hurt anypony anymore…Not…even…Hope…because you wouldn’t…forget the times…you had…for her…” I smiled softly while Hope looked at me in surprise. “Maybe…you wanted…the princesses…to stop you…to make you…realize your mistakes…”

“Stop it boy! You’re pissing me off…” Sombra growled. 

“No…I’m serious.” I grunted, forming a soft smile on my face. “Hope saw you…as a different being…she saw…the pony she knew…since you were foals…”

“Stop it! Stop it!”

“It’s not too late…to accept who you really are…the kind Sombra she knew…” 

“I SAID STOP IT! I AM SICK OF TIRED TO HEAR YOU TALK!” Sombra raised the sword straight at my back and slashed it towards my spine. I closed my eyes in fear, hoping for the impact to come. 

I was just trying to help you! Calm down! 

….Huh? Wait, why aren’t I feeling the pain? And…huh? My back…it’s feeling a lot better. Was I healed?

“That’s enough Sombra!” I immediately opened my eyes before feeling Kodiak licking my face.

“Ah! Kodi!” I laughed, scratching him beneath the chin.

“Sorry, force of habit!” Kodi grinned before we turned to see….

“Hope?!” I immediately got up and saw her standing right in front of us. Apparently, she created a barrier around us from Sombra’s dark magic.

“Hope, get out of my way!” Sombra demanded.

“I’m sorry Sombra, but I won’t allow you to hurt anypony anymore! Not even him!” Hope shook her head before turning to me with a soft smile. “He…makes a few good points. Why couldn’t you open the door at all if you knew where it was?”

“Ngh…” Sombra hissed. “Hope, get out of my way to finish off the brat-”

“No! I won’t! I will never do that!” Hope exclaimed, glaring angrily at Sombra. “You need to wake up Sombra! The Umbrum are using you! They used me to for when I opened the door to let them out! You need to realize that we’re puppets to them!”

“So? We are destined to finish our roles and embraced death.” Sombra scoffed.

“Sombra…” Hope frowned sadly. “I know that this isn’t what you want.”

“Then tell me what do I truly want?!” Sombra demanded, gritting his teeth in anger.

“A friend.” I answered, confusing him. “Sombra…I understand what you feel. I’ve never made a lot of friends in my place and they took advantage of me, but I never took my anger out at them. In fact, I started making a few friends in my middle school and high school days and it was fantastic. What I’m trying to say that you can’t always have destiny always control your life. You are your own pony and you need to learn to stand up for yourself. You keep believing that you don’t take orders from anypony, but you kinda are if you’re doing what your ‘Father’ and the Umbrum Army are doing.”

“Ah…!” Sombra widened his eyes before growling at me. “You don’t know anything at all about me and I don’t want anypony!”

“I know…and I won’t fight you…” I shook my head, putting away my Hacking Gun and stared at him straight from the shield Hope created for us from his sword based attacks that were attempting to slash apart the barrier. “Sombra…Hope has always been on your side. Despite being evil now, she’s still taking your side. She cares for you Sombra…and I know she does…she’s a really good friend to you if she’s able to stand up for you just like that.”

“Shut up! Enough of your talk! Just die already!” Sombra cried out, his horn glowing more larger than before.

“Even so…it’s okay. I’ll be your friend…everyone needs compassion and kindness in them.” I stated with a soft smile before taking out my Hacking Gun and aiming at his sword before shooting it down with a ‘Knock-Back’ bullet, pushing it away and down on the ground before it faded away into existence.

Since Sombra is getting way too angry and too focus on hearing me talk, he’s putting all of his magic into this one final blast from his horn. I better make this one count.

“Sombra, please listen to me!” I cried out, placing a hand on my chest. “I know that this isn’t what you want! Stop being this way and be the Sombra everypony knew back then!”

“I. SAID. SHUT. UPPPPPPP!” With that, he fired a powerful magic orb attack straight towards me. I narrowed my eyes before quickly aiming my Hacking Gun at it and…

“BREAK!” I fired a powerful Break bullet as it collided against Sombra’s giant green orb as we tried pushing them back. I quickly switched it around before aiming it at Sombra’s horn. “Sorry about this, but Paralyze!”

I shot a ‘Paralyze’ bullet at his horn, causing him to groan in pain while being electrocuted while losing control of his magic, making the giant green orb to start shrinking. Now’s my chance!

“Sorry about this as well! Knock-Back!” I shot a Knock-Back at our attacks, pushing them straight back at Sombra till it hit him directly in the horn.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” Oooh…Oh man, I really hit him that hard.

You see….apparently. When those two attacks collided straight at Sombra, his horn came out and he fell straight on his back. 

“Sombra!” Hope cried out before putting the shield down and quickly running towards him and picking him up by the head. “Oh no! Oh no! Oh no!”

“Is he gonna be okay?” Kodi asked in concern.

“H-He’s not hurt too bad, right?” Excluding the horn, of course.

“…Phew…he’s still conscious, but his horn…” Hope glanced over at the broken horn with a frown. “I’m…not too sure what to do about that…”

“Sorry…I went too far…” I apologized sadly.

“No, it’s not your fault. You had no choice…” Hope sighed sadly before she saw Sombra’s eyes slowly opening. “Ah! Sombra!”

“Ngh…what the?” Sombra slowly began waking up. “What in Equestria is going on here?”

“Hey there Sombra.” I smiled softly at him. “How you doing?”

“You…!” Sombra growled angrily before quickly getting up and glared at me. “Just for that you petty mortal, I shall-Huh?”

The moment he tried to use magic, nothing happened.

“W-What? Why can’t I use my dark magic?” Sombra demanded. 

“Um…about that…” Kodi walked over and picked up his broken horn, showing it to him. The moment he saw, he grew shocked and rubbing his forehead, feeling the stump of where his horn was. 

“No! My powers! You insignificant fools! Why-”

“I know what I did was wrong, but I didn’t know that might happen!” I exclaimed, panicking a bit. “But even so, I guess maybe you won’t try and hurt us when we try to talk to you.”

“And why should I talk to any of you?” Sombra demanded.

“Sombra…this needs to stop.” Hope begged, confusing Sombra.

“But Hope…why? Why are you siding with the enemy?” Sombra demanded.

“Because they’re trying to help you too! They’re trying to wake up on realizing what the Umbrum are doing to us!” Hope exclaimed, shocking Sombra.

“Impossible…! Why would Rabia…?!” Sombra’s really lost about this whole thing. We managed to at least make him listen to us, so this is our chance. Even though, I’m completely lost in all of this as well…

“I’m not sure what you guys are talking about, but even so, you should listen to her Sombra.” I suggested, earning a scowl from him.

“Nonsense you fool! You do not-” 

SLAP!

Ohhh…yep, that’s gonna leave a mark. Sombra blinked in shock before feeling the sharp pain in his left cheek before turning to Hope, who was glaring angrily at him.

“W-What? H-Hope-”

“Just stop! Stop being like this! Just being such an arrogant good-for-nothing pony to me!” Hope cried out, glaring at him sternly. “Look at yourself! Don’t realize that we’re being used as their little toys this whole time?!”

“But Hope, don’t be like it! You could rule by my side! It is our destiny!” Sombra argued, only to see the glare from her.

“Oh really? To be your queen? I don’t want to even rule Equestria in the first place. All I want to be with you and what? That’ll be good? Then you’ll win by destroying anypony who opposes you?” Hope narrowed her eyes.

“Hope! This is only the beginning! Then-”

“Then what? I’m supposed to be your empress in this?! I’ll stand by your side and watch you take over Equestria and destroy all life?! Is that what you really want?!” Hope exclaimed.

“She’s right, you know.” Kodi nodded. “Sombra, I’m not sure that’s even nice to do.”

“What would you know mutt?!” Sombra glared towards Kodi, who growled back towards the black pony.

“He’s right Sombra!” Hope nodded in agreement.

“Hope…” Sombra turned to her with a worried look and tried to reach out for her, but she swatted his hoof away and glared at him before exclaiming “Get back! I’ll be fine! If I’m going to be an empress of monsters, I ought to at least be able to stand on my own!”

“Hope…I’m sorry.” Sombra apologized with a remorse look on his face.

“Are you, Sombra?” Hope asked with narrowed eyes. “They told me this was who you would become, but I didn’t believe it. I knew there was something better in you.”

“But Hope, I-”

“No!” Hope shook her head vigorously before walking over close to his face. “I was a fool. You told me yourself that you were a monster. I should have listened, but I had….Hope. Foolish foolish hope.”

A foolish hope? No, I don’t think it was foolish. I think your heart was in the right place, Hope. 

“You don’t understand!” Sombra took a deep breath and closed his eyes before slowly opening them with a purple mist emanating out of his creepy green eyes. “When we looked in the Crystal Heart that day, I saw this! I saw what I am now! I saw my destiny!”

Sombra then glared at my direction before walking over to me with a snarl.

“And you interfered with my destiny! No matter what you say to me boy, it won’t change!” Sombra exclaimed, causing me to frown sadly. “Rabia confirmed it. She told me I was a weapon. They made me the way I am so I could release the other monsters! I was born to be a monster!”

“Sombra, that isn’t true.” I shook my head. “I know that you couldn’t have always been a monster to everyone back then before you became evil. I mean…I may not know a lot about your past, but Hope seems to really trust you a whole lot. If so, then you two must be close friends, right?”

“But…even so…” Sombra looked away, gritting his teeth till Hope came over and gave him a stern look.

“Sombra, look at me.” Hope called.

“What?” Sombra stared at her in the eye, seeing the serious look from her.

“When we looked into the heart, you hid what you said. I told you what saw.” Hm? Really? What exactly did they see? “What did you see, Sombra?”

“You saw yourself as a princess.” Sombra answered somberly. 

“And am I a princess?” Hope questioned.

“Aren’t you?” Sombra questioned, but she shook her head and answered “No. After what happened with you, I left my training. I went out to try and find you. To try and help you!”

“So, you never became a princess because of me?” Sombra asked, surprised to hear this.

“That’s right.” Hope nodded.

Sombra looks at her with a disbelieved look before saying “Hope, I’m so sorry. I wanted to hurt you for turning on me. I never dreamed I’d rob you of your destiny.”

Hope gritted her teeth before face-hooving herself.

“Sombra, you’re a fool.”

“What?” Sombra blinks in confusion before seeing the hurtful look on her face. 

“You didn’t rob me of anything! I chose! I had a choice between my destiny and you! I chose you!” Hope exclaimed, showing her disgust about it.

“But…”

“No more talk about destiny, Sombra! I’ve never believed in it!” Hope looked away, trying her best to hide away her tears. “You’re the only thing I’ve ever believed in. Now let’s go forge our destiny together.”

Sombra stares at her in shock, unable to figure out what to say about any of this.

“She’s right you know.” I spoken up, causing Sombra to turn to me. “You need to stop believing into the path that was chosen by you. So what if you were created just like the rest of them? You are your own pony, and you have your own reason to go on. I mean, Hope already showed that to you, didn’t she?”

“H-Huh? How…How can a mere mortal like you understand that?” Sombra questioned.

‘Well…maybe I don’t, but that’s okay.“ I softly smiled, showing my sympathies to him. ”It’s okay Sombra…we’re here for you and we’ll be by your side.“

“…Why?” Sombra stared at me with a confused look. “Why…are you siding with somepony like me? Do not know who you are?”

“We know.” Kodi nodded with a smile. “If Ren believes in you, then so can I.”

“Yeah, you may be bad Sombra but I know that you weren’t always that evil. You were just misunderstood as a kid back then.” I smiled. “I know there’s still good inside of you, and Hope sees that too.”

Sombra blinks in shock before turning to Hope, who wiped away her tears before she stared at Sombra in the eyes. Sombra looks back at me and Kodi, the latter giving him a soft smile while I gave him a nod. Sombra looks between us before taking a deep breath.

“I…don’t know…what to do…what is my…choice…?” Sombra wondered.

“Don’t worry…” I walked over to Sombra and placed a hand on his shoulder, causing him to look at me in surprise. “We’ll help you pick the right path.”

“…I see. Very well, human child.” Sombra sighed before slowly getting up. “I’ll…leave this in your own hooves…or whatever you may call those things with fingers.”

Don’t you mean hands?

“Okay, so it looks like Sombra woken up, now what?” Kodi wondered, looking around at the Crystal Empire’s orphanage that we were in. “How do we get out of here?”

“Huh, I never really thought of that…” I hummed in concern, looking around the place. “I mean…how exactly can we get out of the Umbrum?”

“Wait, we’re inside of the Umbrum?!” Hope gasped.

“Yeah…did I not mention that?” I awkwardly smiled, rubbing my cheek. “Sorry…”

“Tch, how typical.” Sombra sighed. “We’re trapped here without knowing a way out of here.”

“Don’t worry, I’m sure there’s a way out of here.” Hope assured, looking through her pouch as she tried to look for something that might help us get out of here. As she looks through her bag, she pulls out a familiar object to us.

“Hey, it’s the Crystal Heart!” Kodi barked happily. “Oh right, I gave it to you after Ren gave it to me since it was hard holding it in my teeth.”

“Yeah…” Hope nodded before noticing a faint glow from it. “Huh? It’s…glowing.”

“What? It is?” Sombra questioned.

“But I don’t get it…all of its powers should be drained once I destroyed the lock, so how?” Hope frowned. “This doesn’t make any sense…”

Hmm…that’s a good question. But maybe…it’s hearing our calls? Deep inside is our hopes getting stronger by each time I save my friends? 

“Say…you guys said that it showed you guys something. What do you mean?” I asked curiously.

“The Crystal Heart has the power to help view a pony’s future.” Hope answered kindly. “Me and Sombra once view our future. I saw myself as a princess, but Sombra…I’m not sure what he saw, but I guess…”

“A monster.” Sombra responded, surprising me, Kodi, and even Hope. “I saw myself of who I am today…a monster…”

“Well you aren’t a monster no more.” I smiled softly.

“Huh?” Sombra stared at me in confusion. “Human boy…why? Why are you so friendly with me?”

“Like I told Hope, everyone needs kindness every now and then, and you deserve one too.” I smiled softly. “I understand that if you were treated as an outcast, but Hope remained on your side even after you became a monster. I think that’s real friendship right there.”

Sombra stares at me in shock along with Hope. Well it’s the truth…even if he is a villain, I want to understand them on what they’re like before whether or not I want to at least help them. 

However, before any of us could speak, a voice soon spoken to us all and it wasn’t neither of us.

“Ha ha ha! Really? Must you listen to what that boy say, Sombra?” Huh? I blinked in shock upon hearing that, wondering where the heck is that at.

Before long, we saw something appearing out of our shadows, revealing to be one of the Umbrums, but this one felt different compared to the others.

“Rabia?!” Hope gasped in shock.

“Rabia?” Kodi asked, bending down a bit as he growled straight at the figure.

“Who’s that? Is he the leader of the Umbrum Army?” I asked, taking out my Hacking Gun.

“Yeah, and my supposed ‘caretaker’ from when I lived in the Umbrum’s realm for many years.” Hope glares angrily at Rabia, holding back the Crystal Heart in her hooves. “But how is she here?!”

“Maybe she…Wait…that’s a girl?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“Yes…? I thought it was obvious.” Hope turned to me with a raised brow of confusion. 

“Well…it’s just that…no offense to her, but she barely looks anything like a female to me. Well, I don’t much about the Umbrums, so I guess I have no room to talk.” I rubbed my cheek in embarrassment before turning to Rabia. “Um, sorry about that.”

“Also, can we ask how is she here?” Kodi asked, getting in front of me to get ready to protect me. 

“Oh? Curious? I am actually a cognition of this world you all are trapped in.” Rabia answered. “I am merely speaking from the mind of this cognition world.”

“’Cognition’?” I asked. “Wait…do you mean an illusion that is created based on people’s emotions and personality?”

“Well I’m surprised that you managed to figure that out, young boy.” Rabia chuckled. “Did you figure it out from the places you’ve explored? It’s all an illusion created by us Umbrums’ minds.”

Well duh, I mean, I learned about cognition from playing Persona 5. Or ‘Cognitive pscience’ as they would put.

“But for now, I didn’t come here to just chat. I came here for my precious Sombra.” 

Kodi growls at her while Sombra looks at Rabia with a serious look.

“Rabia…what is the meaning of this?” Rabia grins darkly at Sombra before answering his question.

“It is nothing my dear Sombra. I was just telling you that you shouldn’t listen to what they say.” I don’t like where this is going. “Sombra…you were destined for greatness…You do not need to listen to what they say. Just listen to me and our Father to become great and powerful that you can ever hope for.” 

“No, that’s not what he wants!” I exclaimed. “Sombra is his own pony-self, and he gets to decide what the future wants.”

“A foolish creature like you won’t understand anything. Sombra was destined to be this.” Rabia shook its head. “The Crystal Heart even showed his future of what he was going to be the day he and Radiant Hope viewed their futures from the Crystal Heart.”

“Then so what?” I questioned with a serious look. I felt Sombra, Kodi, and Hope looking at me, but that didn’t stop me from continuing on from what I’m saying. “Even if it did, we all have the power to change the future, right? Destiny is just something to decide what you have to do and follow a single path, but there’s more to it. You are your own person, you don’t follow the goals people set for you, you can follow your own path that you believe in. There are endless possibilities from where you can start, and Sombra can choose his path if he believes in what he believes! So do my friends!”

“Really? You truly believe that? Well your friends are right now about to lose against Father and the rest of us Umbrums.” Wait what?! That can’t be! 

“Yeah right! Like I’ll believe that!” I shook my head. “And even if you do show us something, you’ll be showing us an illusion, right? Look, maybe if you guys stop this-”

“Stop? Why should we stop?” Rabia chuckled. “We are only just starting. Together, we will expand all over Equestria, destroying everything and making it a beautiful wasteland for us all.”

“But what about the rest of us?!” Kodi questioned.

“Hmph! What about your pathetic species? You’ll die just like the rest of us.” Rabia scoffed, shocking him.

“Is that so?” Sombra asked. 

“Indeed! Everything that you deemed for!” Rabia grinned before sighing “But unfortunately…if that was possible.”

“What do you mean?” Kodi asked. “Aren’t you guys free?”

“Unfortunately, it’s not enough. We may be free from our realm and out invading the entire empire, but we might fear that someone will lock us once more from that door. So that’s why…”

The moment Rabia set his sights at the weakened Crystal Heart that was in Hope’s hooves, she made a smile that I saw. It was filled malice and no remorse for anything. Even the next thing she was about to say wasn’t good at all…for us.

“…You need to destroy it.”

“Huh?!” I asked in shock.

“Sombra, destroy the Crystal Heart.” Rabia begged. “Do it for us, do it for Father, do it for me…”

“No way! We can’t let them have the Crystal Heart and destroy it!” Kodi yelled out. 

“Yeah, and if you wanted to destroyed, why didn’t you do so in the first place?” I questioned.

“We can’t touch it since even without its powers, it kept hurting us every time it touched us.” What? Is that true? If so…then how did it appeared before me? Hold on…that voice…whoever that voice was…it somehow managed to protect it along with me…but how? “But since Sombra was turned into a pony, even after being trapped inside the glaciers for so long, he can be able to touch it…and that’s when we can start a new age for us Umbrums with you on the throne, ruling over these foolish specimen…You can conquer worlds, you will have everything Sombra…if you just do what I say…”

“No way! Sombra wouldn’t do that! Not after using us!” Hope exclaimed angrily, holding onto the Crystal Heart tightly. 

“….Very well.” Huh?! We all turned to Sombra, who stares coldly at Rabia as he walks over and takes the Crystal Heart from Hope. “If that is what you want…”

“Yes!” Rabia cheered. “Do it!”

“But wait…if you do that…!” Kodi gaped as I stared at Sombra, and saw straight through his eyes. I continued to stare at him before putting away my Hacking Gun, much to Kodi’s surprise. “Ren?!”

“It’s okay, I trust him Kodi. Let him make his decision.” I reassured with a soft smile. Hope seemed to have the same idea as I did as she backed off from Sombra and the Crystal Heart from his hooves as he stared at it.

“Well Sombra, you may smashed it into many pieces. With or without your magic, you still have the strength to destroy it! That’s why you need to do it! Do it!”

Sombra didn’t seem to hear what Rabia said as he just continued to gaze at his reflection at the Crystal Heart.

Sombra may see himself as a monster as he proclaims…but Hope sees him as a friend…and so do I…I can help him…

“Sombra…please.” Hope pleaded, staring right at Sombra. 

“You should listen to what she has to say Sombra.” Rabia grinned. “That Crystal Heart is a dangerous weapon for us. It’s the same thing that hurt us Umbrums and sealing us away to the outside world. As long as it remains whole, we’ll be locked away. If you smash it…we’ll be free forever! Smash it Sombra!”

Sombra continues to stare at it with a solemn and calm look.

“Why isn’t he smashing it?” Kodi whispered to me.

“Because…” I formed a smile on my face. “He’s starting to choose his own destiny…”

“What are you doing, Sombra?” Rabia questioned, getting irritated by his impatience.

Sombra narrowed his eyes as he continues to gaze at his reflection. 

“Just remembering the first time I looked into this thing. It was the first time I saw myself as a monster.” Sombra explained solemnly.

“What do you see now?” Sombra sighs before replying to Rabia’s question.

“Just me. Just my reflection.” 

“Maybe it doesn’t work if it’s not powered up. All the more reason to destroy it.” Rabia waved it off.

However, Sombra shook his head and turned to Hope as he replied “No, it’s working fine. Hope?”

“Yes, Sombra?” Hope responded curiously. 

Before long, Sombra formed a small smile and said the two words that we all never expected him to say.

“Thank you.” Sombra then tossed the Crystal Heart into my hands, much to my surprise. I looked at him in surprise before he smiled softly at me and said “You too human boy…Or Ren as that mutt called you. Thank you…for showing me the way too.”

“…Your welcome.” I nodded with a warm grin on my face.

“NO! Sombra, what are you doing?!” Rabia demanded with a shocked look on his face.

Sombra turned to Rabia with a serious look before answering him…

“Making my own destiny.” Yep, I guess after that little fight, losing his horn and listening to us what we have to say, it made him finally realize what he’s done and is making it up…by making his own path to his own decisions instead of what this ‘Father’ made for him. 

“Y-You fool! How could you?! Just for that…!” Rabia glares at us all before shouting “You all deserve to die!”

“I don’t like that at all…” I gulped.

“Me too…” Kodi nodded, frowning.

Before long, the whole area began turning dark as we all looked around in fear.

“W-What’s happening?!” Hope gasped, holding onto Sombra who comforted her. 

“Now you all will perish inside of us Umbrums! Disappearing and fading away out of existence within us!” 

Oh no, this is Corpse Party all over again. Only except the cursing and weird fanservice, and obviously without the gore. And what do I mean? Well in the game for those who played (I am sorry for you all who have to go through that horror), learns that those who died have their existence erased. If this is following what I think it’s following, then we’re doomed.

And how do I know that? Let’s just I was naive to play it…and was too intrigued with the story that I had to look up much more on the characters and stories after playing Corpse Party PC…I was an idiot to play that…and I would rather watch it on Youtube rather than playing it myself…I still have nightmares on that little red ghost girl…

But anyway, we’re getting off-track here. Oh yeah! We all saw that the entire orphanage was disappearing and being replaced with nothing but darkness crawling through the area we were in while Rabia disappeared in sight, but not before leaving behind his or her evil laughter behind.

“What do we do?!” Kodi barked, whimpering worriedly.

“I don’t know, but maybe there’s an exit.” I suggested before turning to Hope and Sombra. 

“…I’m sorry.” Hope shook her head. “I’m afraid I don’t know how to get out of here…”

“Same here…sorry Ren.” Sombra apologized. “Well…even if we die…I guess it was nice enough to actually redeem myself on what I did.”

“Yeah, it was nice enough that you did that Sombra.” I smiled softly. 

“Hm…thanks again Ren for waking me out of my senses. But…I am curious.” Hm? Oh, I think I know what it is. Sombra looked at me with a curious look and asked “Why? Why did you believe that I wasn’t always this evil?”

“Well…after hearing about your past with Princess Celestia, I just…felt curious, I guess.” I scratched the back of my head as I continued on with my explanation. “I mean, I had this feeling in me…Like something was off with you and your past…I thought I could at least get to figure out something more about you…besides, I guess bad guys do deserve some sympathy…Well I guess those with terrible pasts.”

Like Goro Akechi, Adachi, Loki, and any villains with terrible backstories that’ll make us cry. Well…maybe not Adachi or Akechi, but you get it.

“I see…well…I’m not sure whether that you’re brave or stupid.” Sombra sighed.

“Either way…I want to thank you for helping Sombra realize the situation and for believing in me on that Sombra isn’t evil as everypony says…” Hope smiled softly before walking over and handing me a small gray crystal. “I’m not sure if this is enough, but this has the power to light and shine off anything.”

Wait…really? Is this…?

“A Prism Crystal?” I asked in surprise. “You had this?”

“Well it was kept in an old room that I found in one of the secret tunnels of the Crystal Empire.” Hope explained. “Your other two human friends, Rantaro and Nicole, found it and I didn’t want them to take anything that could harm my mission to save Sombra, so I took it from them after knocking them out.”

“Oh, I think I’m starting to see how they ended up in that room.” I nodded, piecing the puzzles together. “So…you’re giving this to me?”

“Well…it’s the least I can do…and…it’s pretty much a bad time to give it to you since we are going to die…” Hope sighed sadly, seeing the darkness slowly surrounded us, giving us no room to spare.

“But even so, it was nice.” Sombra smiled softly, placing a hoof of Hope’s shoulders. “It’s the least we can do now…and…I’m happy to have you back…”

“Sombra…” Hope looks at Sombra with a soft smile before we saw the darkness slowly beginning to swallow us.

“Hey Ren, if we die…I want to tell you…” Kodi smiled softly and jumped into my arms and licked my face. “It was nice meeting you best buddy.”

I ruffled Kodi’s fur before replying “It was nice meeting you do, buddy.”

You know, even if we do die and get erased from existence by the Umbrums…I’m glad to at least help out. But…I know there’s a way out of this…

I raised my right hand, which held the Crystal Heart in the air as I smiled softly. 

At least I was able to at least make Sombra finally redeem himself, made amends with Hope, and realized who he really is. Like I said, everyone needs a bit of kindness and compassion to those, no matter if they’re jerks. Though…maybe I’m a hypocrite on that little saying, but still…I’ll be able to help them. That’s what a good friend would do for anyone…

As I slowly closed my eyes, I began hearing a soft voice speaking through me. A familiar voice that I recognized…the voice…who woken me from my slumber of this place…

I am thou, thou art I... Thou hast acquired a new vow.

It shall become the wings of rebellion that breaketh thy chains of captivity. 

With the birth of the Guardian of Kindness, I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and new power.

And just like that, a bright light shined around us all before we all felt our consciousness’s slipped away. 

I’ll always be there for them…as their friend and leader…



Meanwhile
Third Person’s P.O.V.

Back at the battle on the Crystal Empire, the gang were all getting cornered by the Umbrums and Void, who was cackling happily at this.

“Dammit…!” Jack gritted his teeth before punching another Umbrum.

“There’s just too many of these varmints!” Applejack hissed, applebucking a nearby cart and hitting a few Umbrums. 

“Well we still won’t give up that easily from these things and that creepy masked guy!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. 

“Yeah!” Applejack nodded while Fluttershy helped some of the Crystal Ponies of their injuries.

“Mwahahaha! You all are so pitiful…you truly think that you can defeat me? Then you all must be useless, and you call yourselves the bearers of the Elements of Harmony.” Void scoffed, crossing his arms. “You’re all practically worthless of those titles.”

“What would you know?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Yeah, ya dirty varmint! We helped out our friends unlike you and those nasty shadow monsters!” Applejack exclaimed.

“Really? You’re still fighting…? I thought for sure that you would give up Applejack.” Void chuckled darkly, confusing Applejack. “You really don’t remember? The one who gave you your little motive to abandon your friends over something as stupid as not telling them how you felt from your problems back at the little town of Dodge Junction.”

At that moment, Applejack widened her eyes almost at the size of plates as she stared at him.

“No way…it’s you?!” Applejack gasped. 

“A-Applejack?” Fluttershy called, looking at her friend in worried.

“What the hell’s your problem?” Jack asked.

“Y-You guys…it’s him…that fella who made me run away from you all…” Applejack gulped while shocking some of her friends.

“What?” Jack asked in confusion.

“Hey you.” Rantaro called, looking towards Fluttershy. “Little miss Shy, what’s she talking about?”

“Oh, well…Applejack once tried to bring money for the mayor to help repair her building, but she didn’t manage to do it and felt afraid, so she stayed in Dodge Junction to earn some money and we tried to bring her back, but she tried ignoring us and ran away from us, but we managed to help pull it through…” Fluttershy explained before looking down meekly upon seeing the blank look on Rantaro’s face . “I-Is that good enough?”

“Thanks.” Rantaro answered before turning to Applejack. “So…you tried running away from your problems?”

“Well yeah… I wanted to go back, but then that varmint…!” Applejack glared towards Void, who had his arms crossed in boredom. “He managed to make me become fearful that you all would abandoned me.”

“What?!” Jack exclaimed before snarling at Void as he begins forming his own make-shift throne out of the dark clouds that surrounded the Crystal Empire. “So you’ve been messing with some of my pals, eh?”

“I was doing it for my own amusement. My original goal was to kill you, but I realize if I did, then it still won’t make the Elements of Harmony go back to me.” Void sighed. “So my goal is to make you all fall into despair.”

“Wait, hold on, what did you say about the Elements of Harmony?” Kaede asked in confusion.

“I owe you all no explanation since you all are about to lose against me.” Void stated, seeing more and more Umbrums raining down around the empire as the gang were doing their best to defend themselves against it.

“Dammit! Dammit! Dammit!” Jack cursed himself. “These damn things won’t give!”

“And I’m almost out of arrows here!” Kaede cried out.

“Well…everyone, we all had a good run.” Rantaro sighed, earning an incredulous look from Rainbow Dash as she exclaimed “Don’t say it like that!”

“Well I mean, we are gonna lose.” Rantaro shrugged.

“He’s…not wrong there.” Fluttershy couldn’t help but agree with them there till flinching upon seeing the stern look from Rainbow Dash. “S-Sorry…!”

Soon, the Crystal Ponies who decided to help out with the humans and the Mane Six were huddled against each other with their weapons in their hooves as the Umbrum Army were ready to take them down.

“Now then…I say it’s high time that we finish this. Rabia, give the command.” Void snapped his fingers.

“Right Father, now-Ah!” Rabia froze upon seeing something on the center of the dark clouds. The other Umbrums stopped at what they were doing before seeing the bright light that was poking out from the dark clouds.

“What is going on? I said attack!” Void demanded before seeing the bright light as well. “What the?!”

“What in Celestia’s name is that?” Applejack wondered.

“How the hell should I know?” Jack shrugged.



Meanwhile, back at the castle…

Jamie, Shining, Cadance, and Twilight were backed up in the balcony of the castle, fending themselves from the remaining Umbrums inside of their castle till they noticed the bright light.

“Wait, what is that?” Shining asked.

“That can’t be the sun, right?” Cadance wondered.

“Wait…have we seen that kind of light before?” Twilight wondered.

“Yeah…” Jamie nodded, staring right at the light.



Back with Mason and his friends, they were hiding in the basement and kept themselves close in hopes that the Umbrum that broke into their little safehouse finds them they see some light enveloping through the floorboards.

“Big brother…?” Carrie blinked in surprise upon seeing it. “What is that?”

“…I am not sure Carrie.” Mason shook his head, not sure about it as well.

“What is happening?” Rarity wondered.

Nicole stares at the light before gasping a bit, recognizing where it was.

“This is…just like with Jamie…” Nicole muttered.



Over at the center of the dark clouds, a bright light enveloped around it, repelling most of the Umbrum Army as a shining object slowly came out of the sky. Upon seeing this, all of the Crystal Ponies all began murmuring to each other.

“Is that…?!”

“It is!”

“It’s the Crystal Heart!”

“It looks more beautiful than ever!”

Void and Rabia both became shocked upon seeing the Crystal Heart looking more brighter than ever, creating this much powerful light to repel against their forces.

“What is the meaning of this?!” Void demanded, his tone showing off how upset he was.

“T-This can’t be…! I thought…!” Rabia gasped as four figures appeared out of the clouds along with the Crystal Heart as they were right around by the pedestal of where the Crystal Heart was. “No! It’s them!”

“WHAT?!” Void screamed, the volume of his tone was so loud that it nearly shattered some windows.

“Guys, is that…?” Spike gasped, widening his eyes upon seeing them slowly coming down in front of them. 

Right in front of them was Sombra, which made everyone shocked to see him emerged in the light, and next was Hope, but since the Mane Six and Jack didn’t met her along with the amnesiac state that the Crystal Ponies are having due to their fears of King Sombra, they don’t recognized her. However, Rantaro blinks in surprise upon seeing Hope with Sombra, and not just them alone, but…

“Ren! Kodiak!” Spike cried out.

“Ren?!” Fluttershy gasped as the crowd watched the other two emerged from the light from the Crystal Heart.

Kodi shook his head and looked around, finding himself back at the Crystal Empire and his friends. Ren slowly woken up before finding himself back with the others with the Crystal Heart floating right next to him.

“Guys?” Ren called.

“Ren!” Fluttershy, Applejack, Rarity, Spike, and Jack cried out while Rantaro tilted his hat a bit and smiled before he commented “Ah, nice of ya to join the party. I thought you were a goner.”

“Wait what?” Ren asked in surprise.

“Ren, you’re here!” Fluttershy smiled happily before gasping. “R-Ren…!”

“Huh? What’s wrong?” Ren asked in concern before seeing the others’ shocked expressions. He blinked in confusion before he saw Rarity taking out a mirror and showing it in front of him. He took one good look at himself and widened his eyes upon seeing…

“Cutie marks?” 

You guessed it. Ren had two cutie marks attached to each of his cheeks. It was the same shaped, same design, and pretty much similar thing to Jamie, only except that instead of the Twilight’s star-shape cutie-mark plastered on the heart-shaped moon shield, it was replaced with three small butterflies on them, and they looked exactly like Fluttershy’s cutie-marks.

“No way…I got them too?!” Ren gasped in shock.

“What in Equestria?” Hope asked in surprise.

“Ren, would you like to explain what in Equestria is that?” Sombra demanded. “I thought humans couldn’t gain Cutie-Marks at all.”

“Well…apparently I do and so does my friend, Jamie.” Ren answered.

“W-Wait wait wait wait! Hold up hold up hold up!” Rainbow glowered towards Sombra and exclaimed “What’s HE doing here?! He’s the enemy!”

“Yeah, no step aside king or else.” Jack threatened, cracking his knuckles.

“Wait you guys! He’s on our side!” Ren stopped them while shocking the whole crowd. “Sombra was being used by the Umbrum Army too!”

“He’s right!” Kodi barked in agreement. “Ren and Hope managed to convinced him that he isn’t who they say anymore!”

“Yes, and…I’m sorry Rantaro for bringing you and Nicole into this mess.” Hope apologized to the broker, who just shrugged nonchalantly.

“Meh, I’m used to stuff like this. So it’s no big deal, only except you owe me.” Rantaro replied with a cocky grin.

“So…the main party has arrived? It’s been a while…” Ren, Hope, Sombra, and Kodi looked up to see Void staring down at them. “You pitiful creatures just don’t know when to give up, do ya?”

“Who…is…that?” Ren asked. “And why does he look like he’s cosplaying Infinite from Sonic Forces?”

“Hello again, Rabia…and Father.” Sombra greeted, glaring at them. “It’s been a while…”

“You! How dare you help these fools! Do you not realize what you have just committed?!” Rabia exclaimed in anger.

“I have…I have committed treason, but…I did it for a noble cause.” Sombra glares hard at them before looking at Void. “And Father…I should have realized sooner that you would use me as your little puppet. Well…no longer will I run away.”

“Yeah, me too!” Hope agreed, standing beside Sombra. “I don’t know what you are or where you came from, but…I will never ever forgive any of you for hurting and using Sombra like that!”

“Hmph…to think such a traitorous Umbrum like you would do this…fallen in love with such a pathetic pony like her…how pitiful.” Void scoffed.

“It’s not pitiful!” Ren exclaimed, glaring at Void before flinching in pain. “Ngh! My head! What the?”

“Hmm…it would seem you’re slightly remembering me.” Void rubbed his chin in thought before chuckling darkly to himself. “But no matter…I shall still have the chance to destroy you all by making you all fall into the despair I created.”

“Des…pair…?” Ren asked, shaking his head before glaring at Void. “Yeah right…I’m sorry but you have no right to talk to my friends like that. We’ll never give up!”

“Really? And how are you gonna do that?” Void scoffed. “Even if you managed to power the Crystal Heart back, you still have no chance of winning.”

Ren gave him a smirk and retorted “Oh, guess again…Uhh…what was your name?”

“You may call me ‘Void’. That is the last thing you’ll remember before I crushed this world into oblivion.” Void clenched his left hand, making a cracking sound.

“Right…Um, Void.” Ren nodded before holding onto the Crystal Heart in hand. “Maybe I can’t bring it to the pedestal, but he can!”

“’He’?” Spike asked in confusion.

Before long, Ren threw the Crystal Heart straight towards Spike, who surprisingly catches it before widening his eyes in shock upon receiving it. 

“Wait WHAT?!” Spike asked in shock, starting to get nervous. “But Ren…!”

“I know, but I believe that you can do it Spike!” I exclaimed.

“You’re frigging kidding right? What if he doesn’t make it?” Jack questioned.

“Ren…are you sure?” Fluttershy asked in worried. “N-Not that I’m doubting you at all…”

“I know that he can do it, and we’ll provide cover.” Ren assured with a soft smile. “I promise that you’ll be okay! Now go!”

Without hesitation, Spike nodded before quickly rushing past the others with me following after him while the others managed to defend ourselves. Kodi looked back at Ren and Spike heading over to the Crystal Castle before he decided to follow after them.

The others managed to use their remaining strength to fight back the Umbrums, Void, and Rabia.

Due to the Crystal Heart returning to its full power, most of the Umbrums were left helpless.

“They’re getting away!” Rabia exclaimed as she tried to race after them till Sombra and Hope got in their way. “You ignorant fools! Get out of my way!”

“Not this time…” Sombra threatened, narrowing his eyes at Rabia while Hope’s horn started glowing.

“You’ve used us as your little puppets for far too long, but now…it’s time for you to learn how to never used us…” Hope glared angrily.

“Oh really? Like anypony would even side with you-”

“Think again ugly!” Out of the blue, Rainbow Dash punched Rabia right in the chin with an uppercut before collapsing on the floor. 

Rainbow Dash gave Rabia an angry glare before exclaiming “I’m not sure what’s going on, but it looks like they’re on our side!”

Sombra stares at Rainbow Dash in shock before seeing the smirk planted on the blue pegasus’s face. 

“Hell yeah!” Jack stepped in, patting his gut and cracking his knuckles as he sent a harsh glare towards Rabia. “Now you better shut the hell up or you’ll be asking for more!”

“You foolish pathetic humans and ponies! Do you really-”

Not too soon was a blast of confetti was shot on Rabia’s face, covering her entire body with party stuff. Everypony turned around and saw Pinkie using her party cannon as she bluntly commented “You talk too much!”

“So do you.” Rantaro reminded.

“Yeah, because of comic relief. He talks too much and it’s annoying.” Pinkie retorted with a grin.

“Ugh…you’re so stupid.” Rantaro sighed.

“Boys, look out!” Rarity cried out, seeing some of the remaining Umbrums who weren’t taken out by the large light were charging themselves towards Ren, Kodi, and Spike.

“Not so fast!” Jack grabbed one of the Umbrum’s legs and swung them back to some of its kind, knocking them down for the count before he jumped crushed them underneath his left arm.

“Ha! Stay there!” Rainbow Dash laughed, seeing Jack flatten them. 

“Come on everypony! It’s not over yet!” Kaede cried out before seeing some of the Crystal Ponies staring at Sombra in shock. “Come on everyone! He’s on our side! Forget about everything he’s done to you in the past!”

The Crystal Ponies reluctantly agreed before Sombra began using his back hooves to fight off some of the Umbrums while Hope used her magic to heal some of the Crystal Ponies from injuries and exhaustion. 

Ren and Spike kept running with Ren giving cover for Spike while shooting down any Umbrums that tried to come after them.

“Seriously though, why me?!” Spike demanded while Ren shot down several Umbrums using a ‘Burn’ bullets. 

“Because I trust you Spike, and I know that you can do it! Besides, I kinda ran out of ideas!” Ren yelled out before firing more Truth bullets straight towards at one of the Umbrums that came after for Spike. 

“Ren!” Ren and Spike looked back and saw Kodiak running towards them.

“Kodi, what are you doing?!” Ren called. “You’re supposed to be with the others.”

“I couldn’t leave behind my friends behind! So I’m coming!” Kodi grinned, earning a grin from Ren.

“Oh Kodi…” Ren sighed happily before they finally managed to reach to the pedestal. “There it is!”

“Great! Now’s our chance!” Spike grinned happily as he tried to place the Crystal Heart on the pedestal till they began hearing an omnious laughter. The three looked around till Kodi began barking a lot, pointing over to Ren’s shadow, which made Ren looked back and saw his shadow growing a lot bigger before it began popping right out of the ground, revealing Void.

“Ahahahahahahaha! I never expected that you would hand that Crystal Heart to some inferior being! Placing trust in a small dragon child, you truly are specimens that deserves to die.” Void chuckled.

“Void…” Ren said, his tone showing grimace and fear. “Dude, what’s your problem? Why are you doing this?”

“Hmm…well I thought you would know, but since your memories are missing, I guess I shall explain…” Void snapped his fingers as a bunch of shadow monsters appeared before them, and they were a lot different from the Umbrums as they looked like ponies from the shadows. “But I wouldn’t want you all to place that Crystal Heart on that pedestal there.”

“Well we have to!” Spike exclaimed, glaring at Void before backing off from the shadow ponies.

“Do you like them? They’re my creation, well my least favorite creations that I created by using my powers of the darkness. I lost this ability for quite a while, but when I first awoken from my slumber to heal myself, I happened to found a certain piece that restored some of my power.” Void explained while Ren readied his Hacking Gun straight at the strange pony-shadow like monsters while Kodi and Spike stood behind him. “My powers are…complex, in a way. But no matter, whenever I find a certain piece that I looked for and filled with it so much negative emotion, it helps give me my powers once more by what you’re seeing right now.”

“So wait…you mean created these things and…” Ren slowly began putting the the puzzles together and suddenly realized what he was talking. “And the Umbrums! You made them too?!”

“Indeed, took you while to figure out that mystery.” Void chuckled, folding his arms before floating in mid-air. “But the Umbrums and my shadows are quite different creatures. The Umbrums are made from my emotions of how I view the species that once ruled over this land.”

“Huh? What…are you talking about?” Ren questioned. “The Umbrums are made from your emotions of how you view the species that once ruled over this land? Do you mean the ponies?”

“Indeed, along with your kind.” Void grimaced, clenching his fists. Ren stared at his left eye visor and saw malice, disgust, and hatred. 

“So wait…do you mean you hate humans along with ponies?” Ren asked in fear.

“That is correct. You call friendship ‘magic’ and whatever you do you call it ‘hope’, well I think it’s nothing but causes so much suffering and pain to you all. If friendship really is ‘magic’ , then why must everyone have problems in life like your friends.” Void sighed, shaking his head. “They shouldn’t concern with the things they do, but complicate it and affect their friendship. It happened like back at the Canterlot wedding.”

“Huh?! You know about that too?!” Kodi gaped.

“Know about it? Oh quite the contraire, I just happened to be the one who gave Chrysalis and her Changelings the motive to be there.” Void explained.

“So wait…that ‘friend’ she kept talking about was you?!” Ren exclaimed in shock.

“Indeed…she was just a simple toy that I used for my little ‘experiment’.” Void replied, unfazed by their reactions. “I simply needed more negativity from everypony, even you guys. It was quite strong for when I powered one of the meteorite shards.”

“Meteorite shards?” Ren questioned.

“Sorry, but I’m afraid that I won’t be answering that question to you.” Void shakes his head. “You’ll find out someday, but no matter, once I have returned to my full strength and have the Elements of Harmony by my hands, I’ll be able to use them to bring about the Great Fall! In other words…the end of the world…!”

Ren slowly turned pale along with Kodi and Spike as the shadows slowly cornered them into a bunch.

“You’re going to…end the world!?” Spike exclaimed. “But why?! What did we do?!”

“No worries, you all can embrace death anytime. Besides, you all will be considered a little ‘stepping stone’ for when I create true hope to pathetic world.” Void answered calmly.

“You won’t get away with this, and…I’m not sure why, but it’s not so nice.” Ren pointed out.

“Hmph, it doesn’t matter. Though it worries me that you’ve started gaining your powers again.” Void sighed.

“My…powers?” Ren asked curiously.

“You’ll find it once you recovered them or when you have the chance to fight me. But for right now, it’s time for you all to die…” Void snapped his fingers as the shadow ponies started surrounding them, preparing to kill them till a magic beam came by and shot one of them down.

Ren, Kodi, and Spike looked around and saw Twilight, Jamie, Shining, and Cadance coming by and the one who fired the shot was Twilight as smoke came out of her horn.

“Are you guys alright?!” Twilight asked in worried.

“Yeah, I think so. Thanks.” Ren smiled.

“Quick! Get it to the pedestal while we hold these guys off!” Shining exclaimed.

“But what about your horn, Shining? And what about how tired you were, Cadance?” Ren asked in concern.

“W-We’ll be fine. Right now, you need to go and hurry!” Cadance yelled before managing to take down a shadow pony by using her wing. Shining beaten two shadows using his two back hooves.

“We’ll try our best! Go Ren! Kodiak! Spike! Get to the pedestal!” Jamie exclaimed before he began manifesting some sort of dark blue energy ball in his hands before firing it directly to another shadow pony, destroying it. 

Ren, Kodi, and Spike looked at Jamie in surprise, who just shrugged and said “I-I know… I didn’t know I could do that either, but now’s really not important!”

“You ignorant fools won’t interfere in my plans!” Void exclaimed. 

“Do not fear Father!” The gang all looked back and saw Rabia standing in front of the pedestal with some of her Umbrum guards. “We shall protect the pedestal from these stupid humans and ponies!”

“Oh yeah? We’ll see about that!” Ren took out his Hacking Gun and attempted to finish them off, but nothing came out. Ren grew confused before looking at the small monitor and saw that it was out of battery power. “Oh no…”

“Out of power?” Kodi asked in worried.

“Yep, out of power.” Ren sighed.

“Ha! You missed your mark!” Rabia laughed. “Now with that stupid gun’s power empty, there’s nothing you can do!”

“Think again!” Before long, a powerful beam came out of nowhere before it shot down several Umbrum guards, shocking everyone, even Rabia as they looked back and saw Hope and Sombra stepping in to fight.

“You! How dare you two traitors come and harm us?!” Rabia demanded. “Just for that I could tear you two-”

“ENOUGH!” Sombra screamed, cutting off Rabia. Sombra snarled angrily at Rabia as he exclaimed “For my whole entire life, I always assumed that becoming who I was back then was my destiny…but now I learned my true destiny…”

“Oh really? And what’s that?” Rabia demanded. “You already know what you are and you can’t change it!”

“Actually, I can.” Sombra nodded solemnly before smirking at him. “And I’m willing to make a great sacrifice to protect everypony, even Hope.”

“What?” Rabia questioned in confusion till Sombra pointed back and saw Spike running towards the pedestal with Ren and Kodiak by his side. “NO!”

“What?! How did…?!” Void exclaimed before being confronted by Shining, Jamie, Twilight, and Cadance as they managed to take down all of the shadows. “You all?!”

“Surprised?” Twilight smirked. “I may not know who or what you are, but I do know that you’re a threat to us!”

“No! Rabia, stopped them!” Void exclaimed.

“I’m trying but-” Not too soon was Rabia get tackled by Sombra as the two began fighting and delivering blows to each other till Hope managed to use her magic to heal Sombra from Rabia’s attacks. 

“Please Ren! You have to hurry!” Hope called out.

“Almost there…” Spike was almost there till more Umbrums got in their way. “Oh come on! Don’t these guys ever get tired?!”

“Apparently not, but they’re just stubborn.” Ren sighed. “And my Hacking Gun is out of power, so there’s no use.”

“Don’t worry! I’ll bite these guys!” Kodi growled angrily at them as the Umbrums charged towards them.

Ren embraced himself before an idea came out of his head.

“Spike, you’re our only shot!” Spike looked at Ren in confusion till he was picked up by him and was thrown straight towards over the Umbrums and was launched into the pedestal.

“AHHHHH!” Spike screamed before managing to reach over to the pedestal and placed the Crystal heart on it. Before long, it started swirling around as light began forming around it.

“We got it!” Ren shouted, alerting to the other ponies. The Crystal Ponies looked over and grew amazed to see the Crystal Heart right in front of their eyes. 

“The Crystal Heart…!” One of the Crystal Ponies exclaimed in awe.

“Everypony!” Ren shouted as loud as he can, calling out to every Crystal Pony were either hiding or fighting off the Umbrums. “The Crystal Heart has returned! Use the light and love within you to ensure that the Umbrums and Void does not!”

The Crystal Ponies looked at each other and nodded before they began transforming back to their crystallized selves, adding more power into the Crystal Heart.

Back at the safehouse, Mason, Carrie, Nicole, Rarity, and the rest of the Crystal Ponies they were keeping safe came out of the basement once the coast was clear before seeing a bright light over by the Crystal Castle.

“It’s the Crystal Heart!”

“They brought it back!”

“We’re saved!”

The Crystal Ponies smiled happily upon seeing it before they quickly changed into their crystallized forms.

“Oh my…!” Rarity grew awed upon seeing them transformed like that as they started glowing across the place.

Soon, the whole empire began glowing as a snowflake pattern appeared in the center of the Crystal Castle, turning it bright blue. Two vertical crystal spires come together to keep the Crystal Heart in place. 

Soon, all of the Crystal Ponies across the area bow down as the blue light spreads all over the streets of the empire. The light suddenly retracts and concentrates inside the Crystal Heart, causing the heart to spin rapidly, generating a sphere of light that explodes and engulfs the empire. 

“No…No….NOOOOOOO!” Void screamed before he quickly disappears into the shadows while Rabia and the other Umbrums, both conscious and unconsciousness were absorbed by the light while Hope hugged Sombra tightly, who hugged her back as the light embraced everyone.

As the bright light calmed down, the others opened their eyes and saw themselves being covered in crystal. 

“Whoa…!” Ren blinked in shock upon seeing himself being all covered in crystal and his hair was combed neatly. “Check us out…”

“Are we…made out of crystals?” Jamie wondered, looking at his hands and seeing them sparkled.

“Well, what do you know?” Rantaro grinned, seeing himself all crystallized.

“Damn…” Jack muttered, looking behind his back and saw himself being all shiny and crystallize.

“Amazing!” Twilight gaped in amazement. 

Back with our other friends, Rarity, Mason, Carrie, and Nicole run towards to where the light originated, hoping to find their friends while also gawking at their temporary appearances.

“Oooh!” Rarity giggles excitedly, feeling more amazed than bewildered upon her appearance. 

“Miss Rarity, I don’t want to be rude but right now, we need to catch up with our friends.” Mason pointed out.

“But how can you not resist and be amazed by all…this?!” Rarity exclaimed, giggling happily.

“Big brother, isn’t this cool?” Carrie asked, looking at her arms while Nicole hummed in thought as she looked at herself curiously.

“Hm…not bad.” Nicole shrugged.

“Am I the only one who should be focusing on the current task?” Mason sighed.

Soon, they managed to catch up with their friends, including with Fluttershy, Kaede, Applejack, and Pinkie as they all met up with Ren and co. by the center of the Crystal Castle.

“Guys, you’re here!” Ren smiled happily.

“I’ll say! Guess we missed the finale, eh?” Applejack joked.

“Yeah, I’ll say.” Jack nodded before walking over to Ren and Spike, giving the two noogies. “Ha ha, well you two earned my respect.”

“H-Hey!” Ren laughed along with Spike. Soon after that, Ren smiled at Spike and said “But I don’t deserve all of the credit. Spike saved the day by placing the Crystal Heart in its pedestal and all of us played a vital role.”

“I suppose so…” Mason sighed before turning to Shining Armor. “Shining, I am sorry for not being there for Twilight.”

“It’s okay Mason, we’ll talk about this later.” Shining assured, showing no anger at Mason. Mason reluctantly nodded while the others began chatting with one another at the success of finally restoring the Crystal Heart.

“Y-You…fools…” Everyone stopped before turning to see Rabia on the ground, his body slowly fading away into dust. “This…isn’t over…Father…will…have his…revenge…I just…know it…we all…may be gone…but you won’t…stop….from him…bringing forth…the Great Fall…”

“The Great Fall?” Nicole questioned, adjusting her glasses.

“What the hell is that?” Jack whispered to Jamie, who just happened to be nearby, but he just shrugged while Rabia began laughing weakly before fading away from existence. Soon, the rest of the Umbrums began fading away as all of their essence were being sucked around the Crystal Heart before it managed to repel them and send them through the undergrounds of the Crystal Empire and back into the huge door as it opened up and sucked all of them back into it before it shut closed, the locked slowly forming back onto the door with the seal closing up for good.

Everyone stood there in a dumbfound 

“So…it’s over?” Carrie asked, holding onto her brother’s hand.

“Seems so…” Mason nodded before noticing two more ponies standing by the end of the Crystal Castle. “Huh? Is that…?!”

“Don’t worry, he’s on our side.” Ren assured with a soft smile. “Sombra isn’t evil anymore and Hope managed to bring him back.”

“Oh…” Mason looked over as everyone watched Hope and Sombra talking with one another.

“So…we did it. We saved the empire and beaten the Umbrums, huh?” Hope smiled softly.

“Yes…but they’re forever locked away back in their dimension for good.” Sombra nodded. “Trust me, they were sent back through the door you opened…”

“And…what about you?” Hope asked in a concern tone before seeing Sombra was slowly starting to fade away. “Oh, Sombra!”

“Thank you for believing in me, Hope.” Sombra soon turned to Ren. “You too…Ren. I never believed in myself. But I trusted the two of you…and if you…”

“Sombra…” Ren muttered, frowning upon seeing him start to fade away. 

“I guess this was meant to happen, anyway. I was created by Father…I thought I knew who I was, but it turns out…we can change our destinies…just like you said.” Sombra softly smiled as Hope came over and hugged him, letting tears out. 

“Sombra…” Hope smiled sadly. “You see, I was right. You’re not a monster at all. You saved everyone…”

“I’m also the reason they were in danger…”

“Stop it. You’re a hero, Sombra.” Hope reassured.

Sombra smiled before looking at the Crystal Heart, which made him feel…happy.

“Heh, maybe. It’s a funny thought.”

“Sombra?” Hope called in confusion, looking at him as he continued on with his sentence.

“Hope, you have to promise me you won’t run away again. You can do so much good in this world.” Sombra pleaded, which Hope nodded before she replied “I will.”

Soon, he began slowly transforming into dust as he and Hope stared at each other with bright smiles.

“So this is what happens with the Crystal Faire. I finally got to see it. It only took a thousand years.” Sombra smiled. 

“What do you think?” Hope began tearing up, but still held her smile.

“It’s more beautiful than I ever imagined…” Sombra chuckled before slowly disappearing. 

“Sombra?” Hope called, frowning sadly before hearing no response coming out from him. “Sombra…”

The Mane Six and the humans all frowned sadly upon seeing her mourn for her friend’s goodbye. Ren slowly took something out from his pockets, revealing to be the Prism Crystal along with…Sombra’s broken horn from when they were trapped from inside of the Umbrums.

“…Sombra…you’re really cool.” Ren softly smiled before a tear drop from his eye and it hit the horn, but the moment it did, it started glowing brightly. Ren looks down on it before feeling his cheeks glowing and before long, the horn started floating around in the air as the others watched with puzzled looks.

“What?” Hope wondered as she slowly walked over to the floating horn as it slowly began glowing. Soon, Ren’s cheeks began glowing before the horn started shining more till the Crystal Heart shined some of its energy towards Sombra’s horn and before long, it created something out of it. A giant puff of smoke soon came around the area, and something appeared before them.

“What the?” Jamie blinked in shock.

“No…way…” Pinkie jaw-dropped on the floor while the others gaped upon seeing who it was.

Right in front of them was a grey unicorn with a neatly combed black mane and tail with a silver gray crown on his head with a green jewel embedded on it and a royal cape around him with a white furry outlines on the edges with black polka-dots on it. His hooves had silver-shoes like on them and his eyes were normally green like a normal pony.

“Am…Am I really here?” The gray pony asked, looking around in surprise.

“The hell?!” Jack exclaimed in shock.

“What?” Rantaro asked, feeling bewildered by this.

“Sombra!” Hope quickly rushes over and hugs the gray pony who reveals himself as Sombra in a tight manner.

“Hope…did you…bring me back to life?” Sombra asked in surprise.

“No, I didn’t.” Hope shook her head before turning to Ren with a bright smile. “He somehow did.”

“Ah…” Sombra turns to Ren before walking over with a smile and asked “Ren, did you…?”

“W-Well…yeah. I honestly don’t know how, but I guess I did it, huh? But hey, at least you’re back here with Hope, right?” Ren smiled softly, which earned a chuckle from Sombra.

“Yes, I suppose so.” Sombra nodded.

“Whoa…” The gang all stared at the new Sombra right in front of them. Rantaro stares at him with a soft grin along with Nicole while Pinkie brought up a piece of cake in front of them.

“Cake?” Pinkie offered.

“Why?” Nicole asked curiously.

“Because it felt right since we all won.” Pinkie smiled happily.

“Ren, your cheeks!” Carrie gasped. “You got Cutie-marks too!”

“Yeah, so I figured.” Ren chuckled softly, blushing a bit in embarrassment.

“So you too?” Jack asked in surprise. “What the hell is going on?”

“Beats me.” Rainbow Dash shrugged. “Though, it suits Ren considering that he’s a lot girly with those kind of Cutie-Marks on.”

“Um…thanks?” Ren raised a brow of confusion.

“Hey, look!” Kodi pointed up at Ren’s cheeks. “Those marks…they don’t look like they have Twilight’s cutie-mark beneath them, it looks like Fluttershy’s!”

“My…cutie mark?” Fluttershy asked in surprise before blushing. “Oh my…”

“Huh, never expected that.” Rantaro commented.

“Same here…so Ren can achieve this too?” Twilight hummed in thought.

“But…what could this mean?” Jamie wondered.

“If you two nerds are done thinking, how about some lunch?” Jack grumbled. “I’m starving…”

“Of course you are.” Rainbow snorted, earning a snarl from the biker while the others began laughing.



Meanwhile

Somewhere outside of the kingdom, Void appears out of the shadows and breathes heavily, nearly falling to the ground. 

“Impossible…that boy’s power…it returned…and soon the others will gain them back…but why did those marks appear? They never came to when they first gained them…could it be that the powers slumbering in each of them were evolving during their slumber?” Void wondered before noticing a lone red crystal just near him.

He slowly gets up and walks over to it. 

“…So…either way, those foolish Umbrums done nothing right for me. They failed me yet again…oh well, like it matters. I was this close onto destroying the Crystal Heart once and for all…it was her creation, after all.” Void scoffed. “Oh well…”

Suddenly, he raises his foot in the air and slams it hard onto the red crystal, destroying it completely.

“It doesn’t matter anymore…what matters now that I barely had any power left for the next shard…” He takes out a small crystal shard, which looks barely dark compared to the ones he collected. “Hm…though, I suppose it collected some power from the fear of those weak Crystal Ponies due to Sombra, but…I suppose I must find some other place to get more negativity…”

With that, Void slowly began floating in the air as he gazes out of the Crystal Empire, sneering down at it.

“This isn’t the last you all see me…” Void soon disappears from the shadows, leaving behind an ominous laughter. 



Later

With the crisis over, the gang all rounded up by the train station. With the snow storm gone, the train was capable to travel.

“Big brother, all that sparkling is gone.” Carrie frowned sadly, seeing her entire body back to normal.

“I guess those Crystal forms were just temporary.” Twilight said, which made Rarity bummed out.

“Well, I do wish it was permanent. Did you see how my mane just absolutely sparkled?” Rarity sighed happily.

“But…” Applejack gave her fashionista friend a smirk. “Good things are better when they’re a rarity.” 

“Aww.” Rarity laughs alongside with Applejack while the others began boarding the train.

Ren was with Sombra, Hope, Kodi, and Fluttershy.

“Wow, you two are so nice together.” Fluttershy smiled softly. “I never would have imagined that you were so nice Mr. Sombra.”

“Oh, well…” Sombra blushed a bit. “I was like this before I became…you know.”

“Hey, no worries. That was in the past, and now you guys are together.” Ren smiled. 

“I agree.” They turned around to see Shining and Cadance walking by. Shining gave Sombra a raised brow and commented “For an evil king, you sure are now becoming nice.”

“Well…if it wasn’t for your friend, Ren, then I wouldn’t be here.” Sombra smiled softly. “But…I don’t know how to thank you all or how to apologize for my misdeeds.”

“There is no need.” Ren shook his head with a soft smile. “Sombra, you’ve just saved Equestria and you’re forgiven. You have another chance to decide what sort of pony you could be.”

“He has a point.” Cadance nodded in agreement. “You even fought against Rabia while allowing Ren, Spike, and Kodiak to reach to the pedestal to place the Crystal Heart there.”

“Yeah, it’s quite an accomplishment.” Hope smiled happily. “Though, maybe I should have called for you guys’ help to bring back Sombra, but I was afraid.”

“Hey, no worries. We’re always here for you.” Ren smiled.

“Yeah! And you can trust Ren since he has a good heart and a cool guy.” Kodi barked happily.

“Come on boy, I’m not that cool. I was just doing what was right.” Ren retorted, blushing a bit from that compliment.

“So what are you guys gonna do now you’re together again?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Maybe make up with the Crystal Ponies?” Kodi suggested, but Sombra shook his head with a solemn look.

“I’m afraid not.” Ren, Kodi, and Fluttershy grew confused by that. “There are some unfinished business I must do in my act of redemption. I cannot live here in the Crystal Empire until it’s complete.”

“Really? What do you mean?” Ren asked.

“Well, I thought I would start by forgiving someone myself. Princess Amore deserves a second chance.” Sombra explains, surprising Hope as she turned to him and asked “Amore? But you…killed her.”

Sombra shook his head and replied “Not killed. Just shattered.”

“Shattered?” Cadance asked, which Sombra nodded.

“I made her into a statue and scattered her pieces across Equestria. If you helped me rebuild the statue…”

“We can save her?! We could bring her back?!” Hope asked, feeling overjoyed by it.

“I think so.” Sombra nodded.

“That’s great to hear!” Ren smiled happily before asking “But…you sure that you don’t want to come to Canterlot and meet up with Celeste and Lulu?”

“No…but maybe give her a message that tells her that I’m sorry for leaving her and I hope that one day that we’ll meet again.” Hope smiled. 

“I’ll be sure to give her that message and let her know what happened.” Ren nodded in agreement. 

“I hope so, and Ren…take care of yourself.” Sombra smiled, wrapping his hoof around Hope. “And…live a good life.”

“I should say the same to you.” Ren wrapped his arm around Fluttershy, who smiled softly and was blushing. 

With that, Sombra and Hope gave their goodbyes to their friends and headed out on their own, ready to take their own paths out in the world to find the missing pieces of Princess Amore.

While they waved goodbye, Shining turned to Mason who was chatting with his sister and nodded throughout much of her conversation. Shining smiled upon the human bodyguard before walking over and calling out to him.

“Hey Mason!” Shining called, having Mason turn around to him and went to an ‘attention’ pose and bowed.

“Shining Armor, sir.” Mason called with a salute, earning a smile on Shining’s face.

“No need for the sir part Mason, I thought we could talk privately.” Shining offered, which Mason nodded in understanding before he turned to his sister and kissed her on the forehead before heading far away from the other side of the train station.

“Now, I just thought we could talk before you guys head out to Canterlot to speak with the princesses.” Shining spoken with a stern look. “Now, regarding what happened with Twily and Ren…”

“Please forgive me…It was irresponsible to let those two to just wander off on their own…” Mason frowned, looking down. “But…when I saw my sister and the others in the safehouse and most of the Crystal Ponies, including Jack, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash. I decided to stay there while Twilight said that she went and help you alone. I stood there back there because I…I felt worried on whether what to do to stay by with Twilight and my sister and the rest of the innocent civilians and Rarity…”

Shining went silent, listening through Mason’s story as he continued on.

“So…Twilight allowed me to stay here and said that she would be fine. She was really worried about you and so she went out. Besides, Ren wasn’t with us as he jumped in after Sombra appeared out of nowhere and tried to swipe the Crystal Heart away from us from out of the blue…I felt like I couldn’t do anything to prevent that, but I made it up after someone told me that being loyal to someone only isn’t loyalty there. Being loyal on the tasks or your sense of justice is loyal enough.”

“…Is that so?” Shining asked, which Mason nodded.

“Yes…I understand if you are upset and refuse to hear me out, and even take away your proposal that you gave to me.” Mason sighed.

Shining Armor continues to stare at Mason sternly before softly smiling at him.

“Who said anything that I would take away my proposal or anything about me getting upset?” Mason looks at Shining with a surprised look as he continues “I’ll overlook about you keeping an eye out for my sister and let it slide. Besides, you protected as much of the citizens from those Umbrums, and I’m proud of that. Maybe you have the potential to be a Royal Guard. Speaking of…have you made your decision?”

Mason looks down, wondering what to say. Has he really made a decision? Should he back off and stay back home or go out and train himself to become a member of the Royal Guard?

“…It’s okay.” Shining assured. “If your sister is like mine, then she’ll encourage you to go…even the rest of your friends.”

“….” Mason kept silent, thinking about his decision before forming a serious look. “….I’ve decided…”

Shining looked at him with a soft smile and asked “Alright, so what’s your decision?”

Mason softly smiled and nodded to him before saying “I accept.”

Mason raised his hand in front of him, which brought a smile from Shining’s face before he shook his hoof with Mason’s hand.

“I see. So…when do you want to leave?” Shining asked curiously.

“…I think I’ll leave in about in a month to start off my training.” Mason suggested. “I…just need time with my friends and sister.”

“I see…Okay.” Shining smiled before wrapping his arm around Mason’s shoulder. “Well I know it won’t be easy, but you’ll get used to it! Trust me!”

“Okay.” Mason nodded before noticing something. “Oh…your horn.”

“Huh? Oh yeah…it’s been healed since we put back the Crystal Heart. Phew, I thought for sure that I wouldn’t be able to use magic anymore.” Shining chuckled, rubbing the back of his head.

“Heh, I’ll say.” Mason smiled, earning a chuckle from Shining as the two kept laughing till a voice spoken up.

“So…you’re really going big brother?” Mason and Shining looked over in front to see Carrie staring at them. “You’re really going to become a Royal Guard, right?”

“Carrie…” Mason frowned sadly. “I’m…sorry if this is all so sudden, but…”

Before he could finish his sentence, Carrie ran over to him and hugged him tightly, catching him off-guard before he lifted her up to his shoulders and hugged her back . Carrie happily smiled at her brother before whispering “Promise me to always think of me, big brother…”

“I will…Carrie. And I trust our friends to keep you out of trouble.” Mason whispered back, earning a laugh from his sister. 

“Big brother…I don’t cause that much trouble.” Carrie softly smiled.

“Heh heh, I know…but I know that you can do it. You are part of royalty, after all. Sometimes, you need to do things without me by your side.” Mason grimly stated before ruffling his sister’s hair, who smiled softly at him. “But it’s just six months, so I won’t be gone for that long.”

“But it’s so long for me…” Carrie pouted, earning a smile on her brother’s face.

“True…but I promise to send you letters. How does that sound?” Mason offered.

“Okay, and while you’re gone, I’ll be able to hold down the fort!” Carrie smiled brightly, putting her hand over by her small muscle with a smile. “I promise big brother that I won’t let you down!”

“Ha ha ha! I have a feeling that you won’t and I know that they’ll keep a good and sharp eye on you.” Mason nodded. “Isn’t that right…Jack?”

“Huh?” Carrie and Shining blinked in confusion before looking over at Mason’s directions and saw Jack staring over at them, but he was caught by surprise upon realizing that Mason caught him.

“H-Huh?!” Jack looks back and saw the smirk on Mason’s face. He rubbed the back of his head and replied “Right…S-So what? I-I was listening in, okay? I just…didn’t know when to…”

Carrie stares at him in surprise while Shining raised a brow at Jack’s assumption, but the biker looked away with a blush.

“Well? I ain’t none of my damn business to intervene, but just felt curious on ya kid.” Jack snorted. 

“I am fine Jack.” Mason reassured.

“You may keep acting like an adult, but don’t forget that I’m way older than you.” Jack pointed out. “So in the meantime, I’ll keep an eye out for your sister. Just ‘cause that you’ll be gone…and…”

“And?” Mason asked with a raised brow.

“…W-Whatever! I’ll protect the little girl and make sure nothing happens to her, got it?!” Jack exclaimed. “Is that so hard brat?! You want my fist up in your face?!”

“…That’s what I want to hear.” Mason smiled softly. “Thank you Jack.”

“Whatever…” Jack snorted, looking away while hiding his blush. Carrie stares at Jack curiously before smiling over him. “I’m out…I’ll be waiting in the train with the others.”

“Right.” Mason nodded before turning to Shining. “So Shining…thank you again for the proposal.”

“It’s no big deal. I thought it would be nice for you to spend some small time with your friends.” Shining smiled. “You deserved it Private Mason.”

“’Private’? But I haven’t enrolled in your school yet.” Mason stated.

“True, but you are gonna be in it and start out at the rank of being private, ‘Private’.” Shining smirked before nudging Mason.

“…Hmm…I see now. Thanks…’Captain’ Armor.” Mason smiled, earning another round of laughter from Shining.

“Guys!” The three looked over to see Spike calling after them. “We’re getting ready to board the train!”

“Right! We’ll see you later!” Mason bowed.

“Goodbye Shining!” Carrie smiled happily at him before the two began heading towards the train to meet up with the rest of their friends. Shining watches them leave till Twilight and Jamie walks over to him as the purple Unicorn nudges her brother on the side.

“So…I take it that Mason accepted the offer?” Twilight asked. 

“Yep. Something tells me that Equestria will be more greater with him being the first human Royal Guard.” Shining smirked before turning to his sister. “Though, you and your friends gotta stop saving my rump like this. It’s starting to get embarrassing.”

“Wasn’t me who saved you in the end. It was Spike, Ren, and Kodi.” Twilight pointed out. 

“It’s just a test. Maybe she’ll let you retake it.” Shining reassured, which only made Twilight let out a heavy sigh.

“I don’t think she’s gonna give me a new test…” Twilight frowned sadly.

“I’m sure she’ll understand Twilight.” Jamie softly smiled. “I-I mean…she’s a pretty understanding princess, remember?”

“I sure hope so…” Twilight sighed.

With that, the gang all headed back over to the Friendship Express as the train slowly began taking its leave with the gang all waving goodbye to Shining and Cadance.

As they rode over the train, the humans and Mane Six were busy talking with each other, mainly about Ren receiving his Cutie-marks.

“I must say though, that is quite surprising to have Ren.” Rarity commented.

“Yeah, but why are my Cutie-Marks there?” Fluttershy wondered. 

“I’m not sure, but it must mean something.” Twilight hummed in thought.

“Possibly.” Jamie nodded in agreement. “Though…I still can’t believe that you managed to gain them. How did you do it, Ren?”

“Well…I don’t know. All I did was believe in myself when I tried to help out Sombra realize who he was.” Ren shrugged.

“Well that sure ain’t helping us.” Jack scoffed.

“No, it would seem so.” Nicole assured, letting out a yawn. “These powers seems to be connected with us due to our personalities.”

“What are you saying?” Kaede asked curiously, placing her bow and arrows down on her seat.

“She’s saying that we all might have it.” Rantaro answered, tilting his hat before smirking at Nicole. “Am I right, miss psychologist?”

Nicole stares at him for a while before nodding.

“Yes. Though, it is just a theory.” Nicole took off her glasses and wiped off all the dirt on the lenses. “Though, it’s plausible that we all might gain some of their power.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right about that.” Jamie nodded in agreement.

“So anyway, Kaede darling.” Rarity turned to her friend with a raised brow. “Why did you bring along those arrows and that bow?”

“Huh? Oh this? Well I thought I could bring it with me. I don’t know why but it really fits me.” Kaede smiled. “If I practice just more, then I know for sure that I’ll do well with these.”

“That’s great to hear Kay.” Ren smiled softly. “I’m sure that you’ll do well with them.”

“Thanks Ren.” Kaede thanked.

“So, what did you guys even think about Sombra and that Hope chick?” Jack questioned, picking his nose a bit. 

“I think they have a chance to redeem themselves.” Twilight smiled softly. “I’m not sure how Ren did it, but he done a good job on helping them to make them good again.”

“I’ll say! I mean, he does have the heart to help anyone.” Kodi licked his owner’s face, causing him to laugh before he scratched him by the ears. 

“Thanks boy, but even so, I was just showing him from the kindness of my heart.” Ren smiled softly.

“To be honest, I would be a lot scared confronting him like that.” Fluttershy gulped. “Though…I guess I could try to have him be nice.”

“I’m sure you would, Flutters.” Ren smiled.

“So anyway, could I ask everyone something?” Nicole spoken up.

“Is there something wrong, Nicole?” Mason questioned.

“I thought we all could discuss some things…” Nicole said before asking everyone something. “Do you all have these strange deja vu moments like you’ve seen or heard Void before? Or even the Crystal Empire?”

At that moment, the humans looked at each other in surprise while the Mane Six grew confused by that.

“Wait, what are you talking?” Applejack asked.

“Are you guys telling us about a special prequel series or something?” Pinkie questioned, earning bewildered looks from most of her friends.

“No, but I can easily tell that you guys are having some curious thoughts on the sudden flashbacks on that place that you never knew that happened.” Nicole stated.

“Well…it is true.” Jamie nodded. “I mean, I remember Princess Luna telling us that we seemed to know the Crystal Empire despite that it never existed for a thousand years due to Sombra’s curse.”

“That is true, but that wouldn’t make sense, right?” Twilight raised a brow, feeling confused on it. 

“Not just that.” Rantaro spoken up, leaning against his chair. “But that giant door that the Umbrum came out…well…me and miss psychologist here seemed to know about it…”

“Huh? Really?” Carrie asked in surprise. 

“I remember seeing that door, but I didn’t get any weird feeling.” Ren pointed out. “Though then again, we were under the moment when Hope opened the door and released the Umbrum Army.”

“True…” Rantaro nodded.

“Hey.” Mason called, forming a stern look. “What exactly happened to you and Nicole?”

“Well…” Nicole sighed before she began to explain what happened to them. She and Rantaro gave out every detail of their captured by Hope after discovering several clues and her diary about what happened back then before Sombra became evil. They even explored the Realm of the Umbrums, and even discovered who the Umbrum really were and how they knew what Rantaro and Nicole were.

“What?!” Several exclaimed in shock. 

“The Umbrums…knew about humans?!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Okay, but how?!” Spike asked.

“Wish we knew.” Rantaro shrugs before forming a nonchalant look. “But even so, we got nothing to know much about it.”

“I see…” Mason sighed. “But to think you two went through all that…”

“Well what do you expect?” Rantaro rolled his eyes. “You think we were gonna be in a land filled with lollipops and other sweets?”

“Ooh! Really?! Something like that exists?!” Pinkie asks excitedly, appearing in front of Rantaro. Rantaro stares at her blankly before he pushes her away as he replied “Nooo…”

“But I guess…we all somehow knew about this Void guy and the Crystal Empire.” Kaede sighed. 

“Actually, I was curious about him…just who was that?” Jamie wondered.

“Good question.” Mason nodded in agreement. “For all we know, he could be a big threat to Equestria, possibly more powerful than Chrysalis and Sombra or even the Umbrums or even Discord…”

“Whoever he was, we definitely know for sure that he is the enemy. He seems to know our full names, and for some reason, he looks like he’s seeking something.” Nicole closed her eyes and went into deep thought.

“Heh, so what? We all can take him down.” Jack waved it off. 

“Fatty’s right! We’ve faced a lot of enemies, how can we not fight against him?” Rainbow smirked.

“Says the one who went charging and kept whining over and over about what kind of delusion you saw.” Applejack pointed out blankly, earning a growl from Rainbow Dash.

“Hey! How was I supposed to know that he was gonna pull off that weird thing to make me see whatever I saw!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed angrily.

“Girls, please calm down.” Ren pleaded.

“Ren’s right. M-Maybe we shouldn’t argue with each other, please?” Fluttershy agreed, forcing the two ponies to huff and looked away.

“Well whoever he is, I hope Princess Celestia knows who he is.” Jamie sighs before widening his eyes. “Ahhhhh! I forgot about it!”

“Forget what darling?” Rarity asked curiously.

“The Prism Crystal! We never did found out much about it!” Jamie exclaimed in shock.

“What is he talking about big brother?” Carrie whispered to her brother, who just shrugs till Ren blinks in surprise upon hearing that name.

“Oh right…actually…” Ren takes something out of his pockets and reveals the gray crystal in front of them. 

“Huh?! Where did you?!” Jamie exclaimed in shock.

“Well…Hope gave it to me when I saved her, Kodi, and Sombra from when I was trapped within the Umbrum’s mind.” Ren answered. 

“Hold on, what are you guys talking about?” Twilight asked. “And what’s this Prism Crystal you guys keep talking about?”

“Well actually…” Ren frowned, realizing that he and Jamie were going to have to tell them. He turns to Jamie, who sighs and nods. Ren nodded before turning to his friends. “You see guys…we-”

“Actually knew about the Umbrums and that Prism Crystal by the princesses, correct?” Ren and Jamie recoiled in shock upon hearing Nicole guessing as she gives the two boys a stern look. “Am I correct?”

“W-Well…yeah.” Ren sighed.

“So wait, you guys knew about them before us?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“What the hell you two?!” Jack shouted before grabbing the two by the shirt collar. “You two better tell us or else!”

“J-Jack, calm down!” Ren raised his hands in surrender. “Look, Celeste and Lulu told us not to tell you guys because she didn’t want Twilight to interfere in her test.”

“Really?” Twilight asked, widening her eyes in surprise.

“Y-Yeah…sorry.” Jamie frowned sadly. “I wanted to tell you…but…we didn’t want to break our promise with the princesses.”

“…It’s okay. I get it.” Twilight sighed. “Besides, it doesn’t matter whether I knew or not. I still feel like I failed the test.”

“Come on Twilight, you don’t know that.” Spike reassured. “So what if me and Ren placed the Crystal Heart into the pedestal. I think you tried to protect the others.”

“I guess…” Twilight looks over at the window, looking outside with a sad look. “But even so…I guess I gave it my all…”

“Twilight, don’t be like that.” Fluttershy softly smiled. “I’m sure Princess Celestia will appreciate how much you’ve done at least.”

“Maybe.” Twilight shrugged.

“Hmm…” Nicole stares at Twilight for a moment before speaking up. “Miss Sparkle, please stop moping around. Your doubts on stuff will cloud your judgement and will not help you as much. Stop worrying a lot and relax.”

“…Alright.” Twilight made a small smile towards Nicole before nodding. “Thanks Nicole.”

“Mm.” Nicole nodded before turning to Jack. “And please put them down Jack. It is not right for you to hurt them.”

“…Hmph!” Jack puts Ren and Jamie down before crossing his arms and looking away. “Whatever…” 

“Jeez, stop acting like a tough guy, fatso.” Rantaro rolls his eyes, earning a scowl from the biker.

“But anyway…there is one last thing that I wish to discuss with you all.” Everyone turned to Nicole, who looks at them with a serious look on her face.

“What’s that?” Mason asked curiously.

“It’s concerns about our lost memories.” Nicole explained. “I’ve been wondering for sometime…but about those pods, I’ve been hacking into the system to check it out from my iPad.”

“Huh? Really? Is that possible?” Carrie asked, tilting her head a bit. 

“Yes.” Nicole nodded.

“Hold on, then there was another reason why you use your iPad? Just to hack into the system?” Kaede asked in shock. “I never knew that you were even into computers at all…”

“I have hobbies.” Nicole stated bluntly. “But that’s not important…what I’m trying to say that I once made my way into the system…and I’ve discovered a coding that allowed us to be put in sleep in those sleeping pods.”

“Really?” Jamie asked excitedly. “I always had a guess on what they were about, but I never really thought of it like that.”

“Yep, and I think this next part you all might not wanna like.” Rantaro sighed tiredly.

“What do you mean?” Ren asked in confusion.

“The coding that was used to put us to sleep in those pods…was my coding.” 

The whole room grew silent upon Nicole’s answer, some turned shock, some turn bewildered, and some turned pale.

“W-Wait…y-your coding?” Kaede asked in shock.

“Yes, I know if you all don’t trust me.” Nicole sighed, adjusting her glasses.

“H-Hold on a sec!” Jack exclaimed. “You’re frigging telling us that the reason that we all went to sleep in those damn pods was because of you?!”

“H-Hold on you guys!” Ren exclaimed. “Look, I know this might look bad, but I’m sure there’s a good reason for that. Besides, how can we be sure? I mean, she woken up from her own pod, right?”

“It is true.” Mason nodded. “I even checked on it and there was eight pods there.”

“So then, how does that explain about how she placed the coding into the sleeping pod system?” Twilight wondered.

“I wish I knew…” Nicole sighed. “Unfortunately, I am in the same situation as you guys and I can’t remember anything like you all…but that seems to be the only issue on my mind.”

“What…do you mean?” Rarity asked.

“Yeah, you guys somehow lost your memories of how you even got inside those pods.” Rainbow Dash shrugged. “No big deal.”

“Not how we got there. I meant, ‘when’?” Everyone looked at Nicole in surprise and bewilderment.

“’When’?” Carrie asked curiously.

“I mean, when did we get send into those pods in the first place?” Nicole clarified.

“Huh? Really? Well…I never really thought of that.” Kaede rubs her chin in thought.

“Actually, now that we’re talking about memories, I feel as though something is very off with them.” Ren crossed his arms with a frown on his face. “I mean, when we all came here to the Crystal Empire, it should have been our first time seeing this place, right? But we somehow recognized it.”

“And not just that, but we all had similar experiences in our memories.” Mason added. “Getting chased by angry mobs, people murmuring rumors about us, and touching these strange objects, and…seeing our portraits in our own funeral…We all somehow experienced similar things.”

“Yeah, I always thought that was strange…” Jamie nodded slightly, looking down and went into deep thought.

“Ugh, hearing all of this is making my brain hurt.” Rainbow Dash moaned, holding her head.

“So, what does it all mean?” Applejack wondered.

“Well if you want, you can say that our memories seemed to be flawed in a way.” Rantaro pointed out. 

“And how would you know?” Twilight asked, raising a brow.

Rantaro stares at her before looking back with his hat tilting as he gave them their answer.

“I don’t remember how I got into that pod or why considering that I’m quite good at hiding my identity. Though, I don’t even have any memories from before I gotten into that weird space-ship or into that pod.”

“You…don’t remember that?!” Ren exclaimed in shock.

“Wait…now that he’s bringing that up, I also don’t remember that!” Kaede exclaimed.

“I don’t remember how we got there either.” Carrie added.

“That’s what we all have in common?” Mason wondered.

“…H-Hey guys.” Jamie spoken up, his tone showing hesitation and fear. “I wanted to ask you for some time now but…Do you all remember what we did, at least try your hardest?”

“Huh? Well…” Ren rubbed the back of his head while the others tried to remember. “Hmm…actually, I remember attending school. I think that was on…November 24th.”

“Huh? Wait…what are you talking about?” Kaede asked Ren with a surprised look. “I remember doing my maid work from October 11th.”

“Huh? What are you talking about?” Jack asked, raising a brow. “Why are you guys giving out different dates?”

“No way…” Twilight slowly widened her eyes, along with the others. “Is it possible…that you guys lost your memories to the stopping point of different days?”

“No way…!” Carrie gasped.

“Just as I feared…and even we can guess that even the years were different too.” Nicole nodded in agreement. “For example, Rantaro was doing some business of his own on the year, 2017 before he woken up from the pod.”

“Ah, so you did read my mind about that huh?” Rantaro smirked, which Nicole igored.

“2017?!” Ren exclaimed. “But wait…that’s not how I remember! It was 2018!”

Soon, the gang all looked at each other in shock and bewilderment, realizing this.

“No way…” Ren turned pale upon realizing this. “We’ve all forgotten…about the times we spent with our friends and family…we’ve all forgotten about what day and year we each remembered…”

“But why would you fellas remembered different days and years?” Applejack wondered.

“Perhaps it’s relating to something.” Nicole guessed. “I’m not sure yet, but judging by we remembered differently, I would say it was something like…something is making us not want to remember what goes forth over the real date of our kidnapping.”

“I suppose so…but what exactly?” Jamie wondered.

“I wish I knew…” Ren sighed. “But how about we stop talking about that for now? I don’t want to feel more shock than I already am.”

“Mm…good idea leader.” Nicole nodded, earning an incredulous look from Ren.

“W-wait? You’re calling me leader too?” Ren asked in surprise before blushing a bit. “C-Come on, you guys…I can’t be a leader to you all…”

“Well actually, I guess you do have the qualities of being a leader.” Jamie meekly smiled. “Other than me being the first to get these cutie-marks, you were the first to ever waken up here in Equestria.”

“Okay, fair point…” Ren frowned.

“And plus, you got a cool weapon!” Kodi pointed out, wagging his tail excitedly.

“Okay, you got a point.” Ren shrugged.

“Also, you do seem to find ways on how to help out with situations and easily make some of us your friends.” Mason smiled.

“Heh heh….okay. Lay off you guys…” Ren blushed, rubbing his cheek.

“Well you are the first human to ever waken up here, Ren.” Twilight smiled. “I know you’ll do great as being leader to these guys.”

“Hey, the same could be said to you, Twi. You lead the other ponies together as friends.” Ren pointed out, earning a smile from the purple Unicorn.

“Yeah, I figured.” 

Jamie smiled at Twilight before seeing Canterlot off the distance, but there was something else out there.

“Guys, look!” Everyone looked outside and saw a bunch of shining lights circling across the kingdom.

“Northern Lights?!” Kaede exclaimed.

“Aurora Borealis…” Jamie corrected. “And those lights…they’re coming from the Crystal Empire…”  

“Damn…that’s pretty frigging cool right there.” Jack grinned.

“Ha ha, yeah, I’ll say.” Ren smiled while the others brighten up upon seeing the shining lights right in front of them emanating from the Crystal Empire.



The group headed their way straight towards the city before finally arriving to the Canterlot Train Station before making their way towards Canterlot Castle. The rest of the gang waited outside while Ren, Jamie, and Twilight headed inside to speak with Princess Celestia.

Ren, Jamie, and Twilight entered the throne room to see Princess Celestia gazing out of the window, watching the northern lights in awe.

“It’s beautiful.” Princess Celestia commented.

“I wish it had been me who ultimately made it so. But it wasn’t.” Twilight groaned.

“Twilight, stop doubting yourself like Nikki said.” Ren said, giving her a soft smile.

“Ren’s right. I’m sure that you never failed at all.” Jamie reassured. “I-I mean, we all helped out each other while I tried to protect you from the Umbrum Army.”

“They are right Twilight.” Princess Celestia nodded before walking over to them. “Twilight, as I understand it, Spike and Ren brought the Crystal Heart back to its rightful place and your friends managed to make all of the Crystal Ponies stand up against the evil forces of the Umbrum Army. Not only that, but Ren…you miraculously redeemed and revived Sombra into a real unicorn and forever be with my former student, Radiant Hope.”

“Huh?! You knew?!” Ren asked in surprise.

“Well of course. My niece, Cadance, and Twilight’s brother, Shining Armor, told me through their recent letter.” Princess Celestia nodded before turning over to a mural that had both Spike and Ren placing the Crystal Heart on the pedestal, shining all of its love and light across the empire. 

“But it’s been like a half hour since we left the Empire!” Jamie exclaimed, gawking at the new mural in the window.

“Wow…you guys really work fast.” Ren commented, blinking in surprise before turning to the princess. “Oh, and I thought I should tell you that Hope said hi and…she really misses you and Luna.”

“I had a feeling…” Princess Celestia softly smiles, remembering much about Radiant Hope. “I always wonder whatever happened to her, but to think that she was still young and alive this whole time…”

“Yeah…even I’m confused on how that is possible…” Jamie sweat-dropped, realizing this.

“But even so, I still fail the test…” Twilight sighed sadly, but Princess Celestia gave her student a soft smile.

“Twilight, who said that you failed the test? You didn’t do all of this yourself, but your friends helped you along the way to protect the empire. You even entrusted the Crystal Heart to Ren and Mason at first because you weren’t sure how quickly you could find a way to escape the tower.” Ren, Twilight, and Jamie looked up to her in surprise, hearing that sentence from her. “You weren’t willing to risk the future of the citizens of the Crystal Empire in an effort to guarantee your own. Far better that I have a student who understands the meaning of self-sacrifice than one who only looks out for her own best interests.”

“Does this mean…?” Twilight slowly widened her eyes and upon seeing the nod from Princess Celestia, she beamed in excitement and let out a loud ‘YES!’ while Ren and Jamie looked at each other in shock before smiling at one another.

“I PASSED!” Twilight shouted before covering her mouth and blushed upon realizing that her friends and her mentor were staring at her. “S-Sorry…”

“Ha ha ha! It’s alright Twilight.” Princess Celestia assured. “You deserved it after what you’ve all been…but other than that, Jamie, Ren, I read the report Shining and Cadance gave to me and I heard about this figure that was with the Umbrum. He called himself ‘Void’, right?”

“Yeah, and he somehow knows us.” Ren nodded. “Though…whatever he is, maybe he might have the answers that we have.”

“And whoever he is, he is a clear threat…” Jamie gulped, clenching onto his notebook. “B-But I’m sure that we can defeat him…hopefully.”

“Well I know that you all will succeed.” Princess Celestia nodded in understanding. “But for now, you all deserved some rest. By the way, have you retrieve it?”

“Oh this?” Ren presented the Prism Crystal in front of her. “Yeah, I was kinda lucky that we found this.”

“Good…but I’m sure that you will put it in good use.” Princess Celestia smiled before her horn started glowing, revealing the dark smudged letter to them. “And you should take this with you. Once you shine it’s light against the dark smudges, it’ll reveal the truth.”

“So that’s the power of this thing? We shine the light through it and it reveals just that?” Jamie questioned, which Princess Celestia nodded.

“That’s pretty amazing.” Twilight complimented before frowning. “But…Princess Celestia, why couldn’t you tell me about the Umbrum Army? I could have at least stopped them.”

“I didn’t want to put you in danger or do anything reckless that could have affected your test. I’m sorry…” Princess Celestia used her wings to hug Twilight with a soft smile. “But you’ve already proven that you are responsible to be prepared for possible tasks like that in the near future.”

“R-Really?” Twilight asked, which Princess Celestia nodded. “Thank you Princess Celestia.”

“So anyway, thanks.” Ren thanked, receiving the smudged letter from Princess Celestia. “And I promise that whoever that Void guy is, we’ll stop him no matter what.”

“I know you will.” Princess Celestia smiled. “Also…give Mason my best regards once he goes into training with the Royal Guard Academy.”

“We will.” Jamie nodded. “See ya…”

“Indeed…Also Ren, I love your new Cutie-marks.” Ren blushed a bit before scratching the back of his head as he replied “R-Right…Um…thank you.”

“No problem.” Princess Celestia smiled. “Though I am quite confused on why do you have them too?”

“That’s what we’re wondering…but right now, I think we should save all these mysteries for another time…” Ren sighed.

“Yeah, until then, goodbye for now.” Jamie meekly smiled before he and his two friends headed out with Princess Celestia smiling over them before gazing at her new mural.

“…To think that Sombra would actually be revived and be transformed into a Unicorn? Could it been that new power Ren acquired like Shining and Cadance told me about, or…?” Princess Celestia wondered, questioning about the cutie-marks. “And Void…just what is he?”



Later
Ren’s POV

“I PASSED!” Wow, she’s really excited! Ha ha, I guess I can understand that. The others soon grew amazed upon hearing this as Spike quickly rushed over and hugged Twilight before yelling “Yes! I know you could do it!”

“Congratulations!” Mason smiled and nodded.

“You did it Twilight!” Carrie cheered.

“Woohoo!” Kaede whooped.

“Hell yeah! Way to go!” Jack raised his fist in the air with a toothy grin on his face. Rantaro smiled softly at her before Gizmo popped out of his hat and handed him a bottle of grape juice.

“Heh…I thought for sure you would fail, but good job.” Rantaro smirked before opening the bottle and drinking it.

“Congratulations.” Nicole nodded with a small smile on her face.

“Yeah, we knew that you could do it.” I chuckled.

“You did it! Great job!” Kodi quickly rushed over and licked Twilight in the face, causing her to look away in disgust.

“Bleh! Umm…thanks?” Twilight smiled awkwardly. 

You know, Twilight really done it. She entrusted me and Mason before with the Crystal Heart, and she was willing to help out. She made a self-sacrificed by trusting us with it, and I’m glad she does trust us. It shows that we really trust with each other.

And at that moment, a song began playing in the background with Rarity starting out the verse of the song.




(Rarity):

You were prepared to do your best

Had what it takes to pass the test

All those doubts you can dismiss

Turns out you were

(All sans Twilight Sparkle):

Prepared for this!

(Applejack):

You clearly have just what it takes

(Pinkie Pie):

To pass a test with such high stakes

(Fluttershy):

We knew for sure you would prevail

(Rainbow Dash):

Since when does Twilight Sparkle ever fail?

(All sans Twilight Sparkle):

All those doubts that you can dismiss

Trust yourself and you cannot miss

(Ren, Mason, and Carrie):

Turns out you were

(Twilight Sparkle):

Turns out I was

(Kaede, Kodi, and Jamie):

Turns out you were

(Twilight Sparkle):

Turns out I was

(Rarity):

Turns out you were

(All sans Twilight Sparkle):

Prepared for this!


And with that, we boarded back to the Friendship Express and made our way back home while Twilight gave Spike a raised brow, which made him sheepishly laughed at her before saying “Yeah, I knew everything was going to be fine.”

“Yeah, right…” Rantaro rolls his eyes, earning a glare from the dragon.

Heh heh, oh Spike.



Later

We soon arrived back to Ponyville as we said our goodbyes to each other and headed back to the home-ship.

“You know, that was quite an adventure we had.” I commented, placing my hands behind my back.

“I’ll say for sure.” Jamie nodded in agreement. “But I’m very glad that we’ve saved Equestria again.”

“Indeed.” Nicole nodded.

“Oh Nicole, I didn’t realize but you don’t have your iPad.” Kaede pointed out.

“Mm…my guess is that she must’ve gotten rid of it.” Nicole sighed. “But it is alright. I still my back-up memory drive in my pockets, so I’ll get another iPad from the appstore in the mall section.” 

“You come prepare, don’t you?” Mason questioned, folding his arms.

“It comes with the perks.” Nicole answered.

“Yo, so are we still trusting her even after learning a lot more about our missing memories and crap?” Jack asked, leaning over to Rantaro. Rantaro gave him a blank look and replied “Well to be fair, we won’t know much till we find out what else is hiding behind our lost memories.”

“But still though, I can’t believe Mason is going to the Royal Guard Academy!” Kodi pointed out. “That’s pretty awesome!”

“I guess so…I’ll be leaving in a month, so I have plenty of time to be with you guys.” Mason smiled before ruffling his sister’s hair. “Even spending time with you sis.”

“Hee hee! Thanks big brother!” Carrie smiled happily. “And I promise to write you letters every week!”

“Mm, thanks.” Mason nodded.

“I know, maybe Pinkie should give you a big send-off party.” Kaede joked.

“I’m pretty sure that would be nice.” I softly smiled at that idea.

“Yeah, maybe.” Mason smirked. 

“Well in the meantime, can we get something to eat?” Kodi begged, licking his lips. “I’m hoping to eat some delicious chocolate muffins!”

“Same here.” Jack rubbed his gut as we headed over to the front entrance of the home-ship. “I’m hoping to get some good beef steaks to make myself feel relax.”

“You do that and make you more gluttonous, fatso.” Rantaro grinned, earning a scowl as he tried to go after him but me, Kaede, and Jamie stopped him.

“Hold on Jack! It’s not worth it!” I exclaimed. “Please, don’t fight!”

“Yeah! T-This isn’t gonna solve anything!” Kaede begged, calming Jack down.

“Fine…” Jack huffed before opening the door as he grumbled about ‘turning him into a stuffed toy’ or something like that. Always with the violence, jeez…

“Rantaro.” Mason glared at Rantaro with a stern look.

“What? Don’t act like you’re my dad. Besides, I’m older than you in four years, so you don’t tell me what to do.” Rantaro scoffed before heading inside. 

The rest of us looked at each other and shook our heads before heading inside. Seriously though, those two just like riling up against each other. I am trying my best to prevent these two from killing one another.

Soon, as we entered the room…

“ENEMIES SPOTTED!” Huh? We all looked around from the inside of the living room before seeing a toy helicopter right in front of us. But this one was the weirdest one we’ve ever seen…it had robotic eyes and what looks like machine guns on its side. 

Um…did I just enter a Terminator movie or something?

“What the hell is that?” Jack asked.

“AT RANGE…FIRE!” Before long, it’s little machine guns started firing down at us, causing us all to quickly jump out of the way before we got out of the way.

“What the heck?!” Mason exclaimed before examining the shots. “Wait a minute…these are fake.”

“Yeah…” I walked over and picked one of them from the ground. “Wait…are these nerf guns?”

“OH NO! THESE MAGGOTS AREN’T EVEN SCARED!” The toy helicopter exclaimed.

“What the hell is that thing?! Seriously?! It tried to kill us!” Jack exclaimed.

“Um, excuse me, but who are you?” Carrie asked, earning a chuckle from the toy helicopter as it rubs its…mustache? Wait, does it have a mustache?

“CURIOUS AREN’T YOU, LITTLE SERGEANT? WELL…YOU MAGGOTS AREN’T GETTING OUT OF MY SIGHTS!” The toy helicopter exclaimed sternly.

“Sergeant? Maggots?” Jamie questioned. “Those sound like terms used for a military boot camp…”

“WELL…TOO BAD…BECAUSE I AM SOMEWHERE WHERE YOU-”

“They’re hiding from the back of the couch.” Nicole said bluntly, causing the toy helicopter to gulp.

“Oh really?” Jack hummed before turning to me and Mason, which we nodded before walking over to the back of the couch.

“YOU MAGGOTS! YOU BETTER NOT OR ELSE-”

“Now!” I yelled out before we jumped down from the side of the couch and wrangled ourselves somewhere down there.

“OW! Hey!” After ten seconds of trying to fight off whoever is down there, Mason, Jack, and I gotten back up with Jack holding some boy in his hands.

This one seemed to wear a MultiCam-MICH-Helmet-Cover-Tactical-Military-Camo-Army- with large goggles embedded on top of it. He wear an green cameo pajamas set. His shirt was long-sleeved with different patterns on it and was buttoned-up, and his skin seemed pale. He also had shoulder pads on his elbows and his knees. He seemed to be wearing slippers and his hair was sunflower blonde with freckles on his face, but it was chin length. 

“Hey! Let me go maggot!” The boy demanded angrily.

“Oh yeah, says who little boy?” Jack scoffed, glaring at him, only for him to glare harshly at him.

“Who are you to talk to a little girl like me?!” 

….Wait what?

“Wait…did he just say…?” Kaede asked, widening her eyes in shock.

“Duh, I’m a girl.” 

“….WHAT?!” We all exclaimed with Jack dropping the boy-I-I mean, the girl onto the floor while she rubbed her butt in pain while we gaze at her in shock.

Just…what the hell is happening? That’s…suppose to be a girl? Well…he does have a slightly girly voice, but…what is happening?!

To Be Continued
> Chapter 64 - Discovering More Secrets and The Ninth Human!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was the day after the invasion of the Crystal Empire where we defeated the Umbrum Army and successfully locked them back to their own dimension. Sombra and Hope managed to redeemed themselves and left on a journey to search for the missing pieces of Princess Amore, and soon later, I gained these cutie-marks on my cheeks like Jamie did. Only difference is that the marks has Fluttershy’s covered on them instead of Twilight’s.

Soon after we returned back home, we were greeted with something we never expected. And trust us when we say that meeting her wasn’t what we expected, not that I’m being rude about it.

So by the next day, all of us decided to stand by and talk to her by the next day. 
The moment Jack caught her, she managed to break free from his grip and gotten into the elevator in quick pace and made her escape. We’ve tried going after her, but that little helicopter that she seemed to be controlling forced us to stay away from the elevator. Though it took us the willpower to stop Jack from going after her.

“Mm…” I let out a small yawn before getting out of bed and headed towards the bathroom, brushed my teeth, used some mouthwash, washed my face, put on my clothes and met up with the others at the dining room.

“Ah, good morning Ren.” Mason greeted with a soft smile.

“Morning you guys.” I greeted back before sitting back down on the table. Nicole was eating her omelette before commenting “This omelette feels a bit undercooked, but nonetheless, it still tastes good. Thank you.”

Mason bowed to her before saying “Thank you” to her.

“Good morning…” We turned over to the left to see Jamie coming inside of the dining table. “Sorry if I’m late…just woken up from the guest room at Twilight’s room.”

“Lucky…” Jack huffed.

“No problem Jamie.” Mason assured before handing him his breakfast.

“Thank you.” Jamie thanked before taking a bite of his English Muffin.

“So um, guys…aren’t we discuss about her?” Kaede brought up, reminding us of our new human friend. 

“You mean the brat? Tch! That little dirty crap ran us over all because we stopped her!” Jack scoffed, finishing up his ten-stack of pancakes. “She’s already gone and we don’t need her to become a pain in the butt to us, or more to me.”

“I’ll say. Forcing me to sleep on the ground with you on the ground, including that psychologist who took the couch, it was a waste of my time.” Rantaro scoffed.

“What you say?!” Jack snarled at him.

Oh that’s right. Ever since that toy helicopter managed to get inside of the elevator, it’s preventing us from going through it. Jamie had no trouble sleeping over at Twilight’s home for late-night studying. Jack, Nicole, and Rantaro had to sleep on the couch and on sleeping bags at the living room with Nicole winning a game of rock-paper-scissors against the boys because she knew which move they were gonna use.

“But shouldn’t we at least check up on her? She looked pretty angry and pretty scared upon seeing us.” Carrie stated.

“Agreed. Judging by her reaction towards us when we found her, she seems to never go out that much or is even socialize with others.” Nicole agreed.

“Huh, really?” I asked, blinking in surprise before frowning worriedly. If that’s the case, then what kind of past have our new friend has gone through?

“Look, I know you guys want to help her, but trust me, how about we not?” Rantaro shrugged nonchalantly. “With that helicopter in the way, we won’t be able to at least explore the new rooms in this place.” 

“New rooms?” I questioned before realizing what he means. “Oh, since she’s awaken, you think new places will be opened up for us?”

“Exactly.” Rantaro nodded. “I just want to be over with, so I can go back to business.”

“You mean conning ponies?” Mason questioned with a suspicious raised brow.

“I think the correct term is a ‘profitable business’. I provide them info they want to know, and they just have to pay me the sums of cash that’s fair for the both of us.” Rantaro explained with a smug grin.

“But still, I still think it’s wrong.” Jamie pointed out.

“Shut up Jamie.” Rantaro rolled his eyes, earning a frown from him.

“Well still, maybe it isn’t around?” Kaede suggested. “I mean, I haven’t seen it go all ballistic on us with those mini-guns at us.”

“So maybe we can check out the place?” Carrie asked excitedly.

“That depends, what do you think Ren?” Mason asked.

“I guess it’s alright to check it out.” I smiled softly.

“Okay! Let’s go then!” Kodi barked up happily. “The more I want to check up on those rooms, the more excited I am to go through with it!”

“Mm…” Nicole nodded before we all continued on eating.

I am curious to know about the new girl. I mean, maybe she looked a bit whiny and such, but I know she’ll be a great friend to us all. Plus, she seemed pretty much into military warfare very much. I could tell easily by her clothing, or more like pajamas, and that helmet, including having that weird communicator-like helicopter. 

Maybe she’s just a bit shy, but maybe we’ll get along greatly with her. 




My Little Pony: Ren’s Adventures In Equestria


“Huh…” Well it looks like the chopter’s not around guarding the elevator.

“What the hell happened to that thing?” Jack wondered.

“My guess is that the girl controlling it must’ve went to bed. So it’s best if we hurry.” Nicole said.

“Easy enough.” Rantaro shrugged before pressing the button. Five minutes later, the doors opened and once so…

“TARGETS ACQUIRED!”

Oh crap! Hit the deck!

“AHHHHHH!” We all screamed and quickly got out of the way before the thing could fired its mini-guns at us.

“TARGET MISSED! REDIRECTING ITS’ LOCATION!” Okay, is she trying to kill us?! Don’t you think she’s going too far?!

“Hey! What the hell?!” Jack screamed.

“Ahhh! Stop that! Please!” Jamie begged.

“Tch! Typical.” Rantaro groaned, hiding behind the kitchen counter as the toy helicopter approaches us.

“ALRIGHT YOU MAGGOTS! RISE AND SHINE!” The toy helicopter remarked as a small robotic hand with a glove came out of it and pointed to our direction. “YOU DON’T THINK YOU COULD HAVE TRIED TO GO TO MY SECRET BASE AND INFILTRATE IT! GUESS AGAIN MAGGOTS BECAUSE THIS SOLDIER ISN’T BACKING DOWN FROM YA!”

“Jeez, a little warning next time brat.” Jack huffed. 

“L-Look, we don’t want to cause any trouble.” Jamie frowned worriedly.

“Yeah, we just got on the wrong foot.” I said with a soft smile. “Look, we just want to get along. We’ll introduce ourselves. I’m Ren Loodan, and these are my friends, Kaede, Mason, Carrie, Jack, Rantaro, Jamie, and Nicole. We just want to talk to you and-”

“ACCESS DENIED!” The helicopter shouted. “DO YOU MAGGOTS HOLD THE RIGHTS TO MEET THE GENERAL OF THIS BASE?!”

“General?” Kodi asked curiously.

“I think she’s speaking through what a military instructor would speak.” Mason hummed, rubbing his chin. “It would make sense considering her appearance as a military fanatic.”

“YOU THERE!” The helicopter pointed its robotic hand glove directly at Mason, flinching him a bit. “YOU MAKING ME FUN OF ME, PRIVATE MASON?!”

“No sir!” Mason shook his head, standing in attention.

“Big brother, you don’t really have to stand on attention.” Carrie stated.

“Well in the meantime, we’ll just roll with it.” Mason whispered to her, which she nodded.

“WHAT YOU WHISPERING?! YOU BETTER DROP AND GIVE ME THIRTY PUSHUPS!” The helicopter demanded. “NOW! ALL OF YOU MAGGOTS!”

“Should we?” Rantaro groaned. “This toy is seriously annoying me.”

“And who the hell puts toy guns inside of some chopper?” Jack scoffed. “I swear that it nearly made my butt cracked up.”

“How…amusing…” Kaede muttered, sweat-dropping. 

“WHAT ARE YOU MAGGOTS DOING?! YOU BETTER-HUH?” Hm? It’s starting to act funny. Wonder what’s up? As we continued to think what was going on, a new voice appeared out of the communicator of the helicopter that we never expected it to be.

“Hi you guys!”

….What the?

“Huh? Pinkie?” Carrie asked in surprise.

“Huh? Why is Pinkie’s voice coming out of the chopper?” Kodi asked in surprise.

“HEY! WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU’RE DOING?! DON’T R-Ruin the VOICE MODULA-Tor!” Okay, what is happening right here? It sounds like it’s malfunctioning. “WHAT are Y-you?! A-Are you…an alien?! W-What the?! H-HEY! DON’T touch T-that!”

Not too soon that it started firing its mini-gun of phony bullets straight towards us, causing us all to quickly out of the way as it started roaming around crazily out of the elevator and into the kitchen.

“What the hell was that?” Rantaro asked in annoyance. 

“Whatever it was…it is better not to find out.” Nicole shrugged before running towards the elevator. “Now let us go off before it sees us!” 

“I agree. Let us go!” Mason grabbed Carrie and carried her over to the elevator with the rest of us entering in with Rantaro entering last, grumbling, “Great…more time of mine to be wasted.”

As soon as we entered the elevator, new buttons were made into it, meaning new places to explored. But our first destination was to find out much about where our new friend went.

So when I pressed a random button, it started moving upwards in its silent path as it finally arrived straight to the top and once it opened, we all soon arrived into a room that looked like we were inside a military themed room. 

“Whoa, talk about being a fan of the military.” I commented as we stared at the big room we were in. The room was decorated with a lot of military cameo color, even the ceiling was painted with their traditional green, brown, and black spots all over it. Her bed seemed to be a special bed. It was like a bunk bed, but there was nothing down there but a curtain blocking the bottom of the bed. The mattress was on top with a ladder leading to the small bedded mattress. And of course, the sheets were covered in the military themed colors as well.

“Damn, that girl sure is intrigued by the military.” Jack blinked in surprise.

“Yeah, she must be a big fan.” Kaede smiled. “I mean, we all special hobbies, likes, and dislikes.”

“She’s right about that.” Jamie nodded in agreement, examining a portrait of different military weapons and vehicles that has description of them each. “Her family might be part of the U.S. Military too.”

“Hm…that could be the case.” Nicole adjusted her glasses while looking through her iPad. 
“She may sound serious, but she seems to the type to have the heart of gold.”

“Yeah right! That brat nearly blasted us into smithereens!” Jack exclaimed. 

“Whatever, where is she? You would think she would be in her room by now.” Rantaro commented.

“Give it back!” Huh? Wait…that voice! 

“Come on! I want to know what it does!” 

“Voices?” Carrie spoken up, blinking several times.

“That sounded like it came from over there!” Kaede pointed over to a pair of stairs that leads upstairs that was on the right side of the room as we raced over and headed upstairs and once we arrived to the room upstairs of the new girls’ room, we found ourselves in what looks like a workout gym room that also seems to act like it’s a mechanic shop. While we were here, we witnessed the young sunflower blonde girl fighting over an advanced looking remote control from Pinkie Pie as they wrestled against each other.

“Come on! Let go!” The young girl exclaimed. “This is mine!”

“But I wanna know what it does! I really want to!” Pinkie begged.

“Well…when you put it like that, how about I show ya?” The girl grinned. “I always love testing it on maggots downstairs!”

“HEY!” Jack shouted, stomping his way before grabbing the two in his hands.

“Hey!” The girl whined. “Not you again, chubby!”

“Oh, you are so asking for a spanking!” Jack snarled.

“What? We were just having fun.” Pinkie insisted.

“Pinkie Pie…” Mason shook his head. “Well anyway, at least we finally found her.”

“Hey, you guys are those weirdos I saw and managed to escape from yesterday.” The girl responded. “Heh, didn’t expect me to see, eh rookies?”

“Rookies?” Jamie asked. 

“Are you treating us like we’re actually soldiers from the military?” Kaede asked.

“Of course I am!” She nodded before Jack lifted her up towards his face.

“Nah, you look like a shrimp to me.” Jack scoffed. “And an annoying to me.”

“Aye, you take that back mate!” She exclaimed. “You’re talking to one and only Skye Jones here!”

“Skye Jones?” I questioned curiously. “I’m sorry but I don’t I never heard of you before.”

“Wh-Wha? S-Seriously?” She asked in surprise. “Well that’s disappointing.”

“Um, so that’s your name.” Jamie smiled softly. “Well, it’s okay to trust us.”

“Mm…don’t underestimate me.” Skye smirked. “You’re speaking to a smarty right here.”

“Mm…” Nicole stared at her before gasping softly. “Ah…I now get it. So you’re THE Skye Jones, a specialist in military mechanics and VR control systems, and graduated high school at the age of 13.”

“Whoa, seriously?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“No way, I’m now remembering that!” Kaede gasped. “That’s…so amazing!”

“That’s right! I may have recently graduated high school, but I guess my fame was already sky-high, eh?” Skye joked. “That’s why I said that you shouldn’t underestimate me.”

“Really? Still, to me, you’re nothing but a brat.” Jack scoffed, dropping her and Pinkie on the ground. “By the way pink brat, what are you doing here? And how the hell did you get here?”

“I used the elevator earlier before you guys, duh.” Pinkie grinned and rolled her eyes, like she was stating the obvious. I’m not sure that’s not obvious to us, though. “Other than that, I found your new friend and I wanted to find out what kind of remote control it can do, but she wouldn’t.”

“Hey hey hey, it’s mine!” Skye pouted. “You can’t just take my things!”

“Well maybe she should have.” Rantaro scoffed, tilting his hat down. “After all, you nearly tried to kill us.”

“Those were fake bullets anyway.” Skye rolled her eyes. “Don’t get upset on me, you guys. Besides, I was just trying to figure you guys out if I should trust you or not. For a moment there, I thought you suckers were my kidnappers, seeking to use me for my knowledge of VR sets.”

“Is that so? Well we’re sorry for making you feel that way.” Mason apologized. 

“Yeah, we didn’t mean to make you scared Skye.” Carrie apologized.

“Nah, don’t fret. No biggie.” Skye shrugged. “Either way…you guys still have orders under me as your commander! Now then! Atten-hut! You! Private Loodan, right?”

“Y-Yes?” I called, flinching a bit. 

“Care to explain my surroundings and were we are? Are we in some sort of our kidnapper’s base or something?” Skye demanded.

“R-Right…you see…” I began to explain to her the events of what’s been transpiring. Just giving her the short version of the story like where we are, what this place is, about the citizens here, and our friends, and her reaction…

“I see….that’s pretty frigging crazy!” Skye exclaimed. “That might explain the talking pink pony over there!”

“You don’t seem to be frightened by her as you should.” Kaede pointed out. 

“Oh trust me, I was when she appeared right out of nowhere and tried to tinker with my controller, but I managed to overcome it.” Skye grinned, gloating a bit. “After all, I’m pretty cool at doing stuff like that.”

“How surprising.” Rantaro said in a sarcastic and dry tone. “So anyway, you saying you’re some teenage girl who’s famous for graduating at the age of 13?”

“Yep, just recently.” Hm? Recently?

“Recently…? But your success was over the news for as like several months as I remembered.” Jamie stated.

“Whaaa? What are you talking about? I graduated for about a month ago and it’s still going on.” Skye retorted, earning surprised looks from her. “What? Why are you staring at me?”

“Damn…so that means that your memories are all messed up too?” Kodi called.

“W-Whoa! The talking dog!” Skye gasped.

“Surprised, huh?” I chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of my head.

“…Okay, maybe this is a dream and I need to go back to sleep.” Skye commented, blinking in surprise.

“Do that and I’ll gladly sit on you.” Jack said with a stern look.

“Never mind.” Skye chuckled with a nervous grin.

“Look, we understand how afraid you are, but you need to trust us.” I said with a soft smile. “So trust us when we say that you can trust us.”

“Well…I don’t know…” Skye frowned suspiciously.

“Well, we tried.” Rantaro rolled his eyes.

“We aren’t giving up that easily.” Kaede argued, frowning at Rantaro’s actions.

“Ooh! Ooh! How about we have some fun along the way?!” Pinkie asked excitedly. “You know, I could take you around Ponyville and the ship?”

“Alright, but just the ship! I was just admiring much of my room and this workout room!” Skye exclaimed in excitement. 

“Well in that case, how about we explore much more of the place together?” Mason questioned.

“…Alright, but if you guys try and hurt me, then I’ll gladly use my chopter on you.” She frowned. 

“R-Right…” I nodded with a frown.

“Ooh! Ooh! How about we have some fun along the way?!” Pinkie asks excitedly. 

“Pinkie, maybe later. Right now, we need to investigate as much as possible around the place.” Mason insisted.

“Well…I don’t know. Maybe she could help.” I reassured.

“And be annoyed by her? Nope.” Rantaro said in a dry and annoyed tone.

“Rantaro!” Kaede called. “You shouldn’t hurt her feelings like that!”

“No, it’s okay.” Pinkie assured with a smile. “I’m sure I’ll be fine! Besides, I already see much by hanging out in the mall, enjoying eating those potato fries! They taste so different from hay fries!”

“You sure…?” Jamie asked in concern.

“Yep! Totally!” Pinkie chuckled. "Bye bye for now, you too General Skye Jones!"

With that, Pinkie quickly dashed out of the room, much to our surprise. I don’t know why…I mean, I always see her happy but she sure was acting weird. Wonder if she’s upset? If so, then I kinda feel bad.

"General Skye Jones...Ha ha ha, 'bout time someone calls me." Skye chuckled.

“But...what about Pinkie Pie?” Kodi frowned, whimpering sadly.

“Hey, don’t worry about it little guy.” Skye petted him on the head. “…Whoa, he feels so real. Are you sure that this dog isn’t a robot?”

“Last we checked, nope.” Rantaro shook his head. 

“Hm…” Nicole stares at her. 

“What are you looking at, soldier? You don’t look when I tell you to look!” Skye exclaimed. 

“…You’re charismatic.” Nicole bluntly answered.

“H-Huh? Oh that? You mean how confidant I am?” Skye asked with a smirk before placing a hand on her hat. “Heh, of course. This smart girl is quite someone you all don’t want to mess with! Got it maggots?!”

“You know, she sounds really cute compared to the voice from that helicopter.” Kaede giggled.

“Yeah, she really is cute and cool.” Carrie agreed.

“Hey! Don’t you go there!” Skye exclaimed before taking out her control and began fiddling around with it, having her helicopter toy come into the room in mere minutes before its starts flying around us. “This bad boy is something of my invention! It was what won the Battlebot competition last year!”

“Battlebot?!” I exclaimed in shock. “Oh hey, I remember now! I’ve seen it on ABC network. So wait, you were one of the competitors?!”

“Heh heh, yep. This baby here was also served as my final project for my High School Robotics classes.” Skye grinned madly. “She’s a beaut, isn’t she?”

“Mm…it does look pretty advanced.” Nicole agreed.

“See? She gets it!” Skye laughed. “Now come on maggots! In formation and let us explore more of this darn place!”

“Um…okay?” Jamie gulped.

“Fine, but she’s your responsible.” Jack snorted, heading out, scratching his butt. “I rather go and take a nap.”

“Jack! We need to investigate the place!” Kaede exclaimed. “We can’t just stand around and do nothing! We have many places to explore!”

“Ugh…fine.” Jack yawned. “But after that, I’m taking my nap.”

“Sure, whatever.” Rantaro rolled his eyes.

“Okay.” Nicole nodded.

“Alright you guys, let’s go.” Ren smiled. “Let’s continue on exploring around the place!”

“Hey! He stole my line!” Skye complained. “Jeez! No fair!”
Heh heh…Um…sorry?

“Though, a workout room? Hmm…curious.” Mason smiled softly. “Perhaps I could train myself in here before I depart.”

“But you’re already strong big brother.” Carrie stated, earning a chuckle from her older brother.

“While that may be true. I still need to train hard in order to be prepared. Extra precaution.” Mason smiled before ruffling his sister’s hair.

“Tee-hee! Okay big brother!” Carrie smiled brightly.

“Hey, what they talking about?” Skye asked.

“Just some offer he was given to about going to some military themed school.” I answered, putting my hands in my pockets.

“Ah…I gotcha. He certainly does looks like he’s ready for combat.” Skye smirked. “I like it.”

“This place does look like you see from a Planet Fitness Gym.” Kaede commented. “And we even got one back down at the mall.”

“Guess maybe for back up training?” Jamie suggested before frowning. “No…that doesn’t make sense.”

“Alright alright! You maggots get it! This is a room for new recruits like you to workout! But remember that I’m in charge, and you need maggots need to be obedient! Then you’ll be ready for battle!” Skye grinned.

“We already have a leader.” Nicole spoken.

“Eh?” Skye asked in confusion.

“Ren is the leader considering that he was the second to unlock this new mysterious power of his, along with being the first human to waken up to our current situation.” I blushed over at the explanation Nicole gave out to her.

“C-Come on, you guys…again with being a leader? I-I mean…we all just on equal to our own ends.” I stated, blushing a bit.

“Whaaaat? Oh come on!” Skye grumbled. “Fine then! For now on, you’ve been promoted to Corporeal Loodan then! But I’m still considering myself General Skye Jones! Remember that!”

“R-Right…” I nodded, gulping a bit. This girl really means business…



Later

After heading back to the elevator, Skye became interested in what the buttons that she tried touching some random, but Jack stopped her and screamed “Don’t even try brat.”

“Jeez, I was just curious about this place! Not my fault, chubby!” Skye pouted.

“What?!” Jack yelled.

“Jack! Calm down!” Mason held him back, much to his anger.

“Dammit!” Jack growled. “Piece of crap…”

“I’m right here!” Skye exclaimed. 

“Can we just move on already?” Rantaro groaned.

“Don’t worry, I got it!” Carrie pressed one of the new buttons appearing in the slots, closing the doors with Skye holding onto her toy helicopter.

“Do you always carry that?” Kodi asked curiously.

“Of course I do, doggy.” Skye grinned.“ Ha ha, I take this baby on a stroll for reconnaissance!”

“Reconnaissance?” I asked.

“You mean that you use it to examine things? Hmm, I guess it would make sense on how you knew us.” Jamie nodded in agreement. “It has some cameras installed in it.”

“Exactly! Good eyes there, Private Watson!” Skye smirked. “I test this baby out whenever back at home!”

“Really? Even back at home?” I asked in surprise. “Wow, what else can a 13-year old genius can do?”

“Heh, jealous?” Skye grinned at me. “I know, I’m awesome!”

“W-Well…not really. I was just awed by it.” I stated.

“Awe on my VR designs later, Corporeal Loodan! Right now, let’s explore this so called ‘Home-Ship’.” Skye stated sternly, but held a confidant smirk on his face. 

“R-Right…” I grinned awkwardly, sweat-dropping a little. She’s pretty cheery, confidant, and such.

Soon, the elevator began moving upwards into one of the next rooms of the place. It soon arrived to another new floor in the area, which appeared to what looks like a wrestling ring. We walked across the narrow pathway and found ourselves a stadium with a wrestling ring in the middle. Apparently, this room seems to be just one floor below the shopping district.

“This looks like something out from seeing the WWE.” I commented. “I always seen that much about and those cool moves John Cena does.”

“You’re a fan of John Cena?” Jack asked in surprise.

“Well yeah. Especially his epic theme song.” I added with a soft smile. 

“Ha ha ha ha!” Jack came over and gave me a noogie. “So you watch it too?! That’s pretty damn awesome!”

“Oh, so you watch that wrestling TV network?” Jamie asked in surprise before muttering “That’s sorta not a surprise…”

“I heard that nerd.” Jack growled before puffing his chest, jiggling his belly a little before commenting “I’ll have you know that my family are actually influential in the art of wrestling! I know a few of my cousins who went to WWE and fought in it.”

“So you know how to wrestle despite it being fake?” Rantaro questioned.

“Hell yeah! I wrestled my dad a ton of times as practice!” Jack smirked. “Even though most of the time I always lose by getting underneath his b-”

“Don’t finish that sentence please!” Kaede exclaimed, covering her ears with a blush on her face. “I seriously don’t want to be scarred for life!”

“Tch, that’s because you aren’t even my age.” Jack grunted before gazing at the wrestling ring with a smirk. “But how about one of you losers come and fight me?”

“F-Fight you?” Jamie asked nervously.

“Heh heh, maybe not now. But even so, I don’t think we wouldn’t get a chance against you.” I smiled nervously. “Well…I guess maybe Mason, but we’ll never know.”

“Oh trust me, I would.” Mason smiled.

“Wanna bet there?” Jack walked over to him and got into his face with a growl. 

“It could well may be, bear.” Mason smirked.

“B-Bear?!” Jack growled.

“Well you do act like a bear like the growling as well wanting to take a nap.” Carrie commented.

“And you’re as fat as one.” Skye grinned. “So suck it up, private Yamaki.”

“You shut your mouth or else!” Jack snarled.

“Hmm…interesting.” Nicole commented, walking inside of the walking ring while Rantaro checked out the rest of the audience’s seat before finding the commentator's room. 

“Huh, it looks like the power here seems to work.” Rantaro said, speaking through the microphone. “Heh, sitting right here is something to be proud of.”

“Um, by sitting in one of the commentator's seat?” I asked in confusion.

“If you don’t get it, then scram kid.” Rantaro scoffed. “I’m already annoyed being around you.”

“Never mind…sorry.” I apologized with a slight frown before walking away from him and looked around the place.

“Hey guys! I think I found the changing room for both genders.” Jamie called, finding two different colored doors. The blue was for the boys, and the pink was for the girls.

“Huh, that’s…somewhat comforting.” Kaede smiled softly.

“And some wrestling singlets…!” Jack shouted, coming out of the boys changing room and showed us different sized singlets. “Ha ha, maybe now that we can wrestle. Don’t worry ladies, I’ll teach ya how to fight.”

“Uh…what?” Kaede glared at Jack, along with Nicole and Skye while Carrie frowned. 

“That’s not very nice.” Carrie stated.

“Yeah, coming out of a tub of lard like ya. Seriously private Yamaki, learn to watch your mouth from your superior.” Skye grumbled.

“What you say?!” Jack exclaimed.

“Let’s just go before things escalate into more arguing.” Mason sighed. “Because this is how I will not spend with the rest of you like this for an entire month.”

“Well we’ve dealt with crazy things like this before, right? So maybe it won’t be bad.” I reassured with a soft smile.

“Fun?” Huh? AH! The moment I turned around, Pinkie was standing right next to me. I didn’t see her coming at all! 

“It’s that pink pony you all referred to as your friend, right?” Skye asked, trying to hold back her surprise with a stern look. “W-What was her name again? Pinky?”

“No, not that Pinky, this is Pinkie.” I corrected her, which she soon understood. Right, she isn’t Mina despite how their look like each other, including skin color.

“Hey Pinkie, what are you doing? I thought you left?” Jamie asked.

“Fun?” Umm…what? “Fun! Fun! Fun!”

“Guys, is it just me or is Pinkie acting funnier than she usually does?” Kaede asked in confusion.

“Hmm…” Nicole stared directly at Pinkie before widening her eyes a bit. “What…?”

“What’s wrong Private Nicole?” Skye asked in confusion. “What’s this pony’s status? Stat!”

“I’m not sure…but this Pinkie doesn’t seem to act like our Pinkie.” Wait what? What does she mean by that? Does she mean…!

“Wait…are you saying that-”

“Fun! Fun! Fun! Fun!” ‘Pinkie’ bounces off to who knows where, disappearing from our sights.

“…The hell has that chick been going on?” Jack wondered.

“It’s probably better if we found out later on…hopefully.” Mason sighed.

“Anyway, let’s continue on…” Nicole muttered, glancing away in thought.

I can’t help but wonder what was that all about…but I can already tell that Pinkie wasn’t our Pinkie…So I wonder what’s going on outside right now.



Later

We explored around the mall district as we explored to find some new shops opened up, revealing a racing track. 

“A racing track? I never would have imagined a mall to have something like this.” Jamie commented. “And judging by this structure, I say it’s sponsored by NASCAR.”

“Isn’t that that racing network that shows many racers racing across the track for who knows how long?” Carrie asked curiously before smiling softly. “I think I remember seeing it once on TV with Elena. It was crazy along with those crashes they sustained…I never knew that racing was so dangerous.”

“Just like with me fighting off some of my rival gangs.” Jack huffed. “Fighting off for territory can lead some to…unintended violence.”

“Not interested.” Rantaro bluntly stated. “Besides, why am I so interested learning so much about you? Unless it involves cash, I rather be interested in that as a broker.”

“Do you always think of stuff like that?” I frowned, not liking Rantaro’s attitude per usual. I know that he helped us a lot throughout against the Umbrum Army and that Void guy, but still…he’s acting like his careless self.

“Well I’ve been stuck here long enough. Do you know how much money you can make in a day, week, or even months?” Rantaro questioned with a bored look.

“Once again, seeing you is sometimes makes us baffle.” I sighed before smiling softly. “Though it is good to see you act like that.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Rantaro questioned.

“He means what he means.” Nicole replied for me before entering the small racing track, seeing some cars. “I guess we have some means to have fun…though I never did stuff like this. Not a fan of motion sickness, but I manage to hold it in when necessary.”

“Heh, not inviting you on a joy ride with me.” Jack snorted before examining the cars. Skye walked over and gently bowed down a little at the car Jack was examining. He noticed her looking down at it and grunted a “What”?

“It’s just weird that all of this was made into this strange ship. Or…is it really a space-ship? I mean, how the heck was all of this made?” Skye questioned. “I mean, I’m new to this all of this, but this is all loco to the coco.”

“Um…is that really an expression?” Jamie meekly asked.

“Of course it is! So don’t interrupt your superior, Private Wattson!” Skye stated sternly. “Now then, where we we? Oh right, we were investigating this place for…Corporeal Loodan! Give me a recap of what so special about this place?”

And of course, she returns back to me…Oh well, might as well explain it all back to her.

“Well it’s just that we all woken up on this ship with no memories of how we got here.” I explained. “Though…we later soon found out that our memories were all jumbled up.”

“Jumbled up? I thought you guys said that you all each don’t remember how you arrived in this base, right maggot?” Skye questioned.

“We did, but unfortunately, what we mean is that we seemed to remember different days of our last days before ending up in Equestria.” Mason clarified. “I’m not sure, but it would seem our kidnapper intended this to mess us up.”

“I see…and those pods are some sort of sleeping pod, right?” Skye guessed. “You know, that weird thing I ended up waking up.”

“That’s the one.” Nicole nodded before looking through her iPad. “Apparently, we each woken up in those things for some reason to end up here in Equestria.”

“Course I still don’t know why I ended up being around here with you dopes.” Rantaro shrugged. “Oh well, guess it would be exciting to try out new things in life as they say.”

“Yeah yeah, shut up.” Jack grunted in annoyance. “But anyway, we all woke up with different days of how we were kidnapped.”

“Or different years, messing us up.” Jamie added. “Skye, do you remember anything from before?”

“Actually, it’s pretty obvious when she told us.” Nicole said, confusing the rest of us.

“Eh? What I say?” Skye asked.

“Earlier before, you said something about getting ‘recently famous’ and how your fame started out in a month ago or so.” Nicole explained. “Meaning that that was the last day you remembered before getting trapped in that sleeping pod. In other words, that was the stopping point of yours.”

“Huh, good explanation there Private Bonnie.” Skye nodded. “So wait, you guys remember further than me when I became famous from graduating high school?”

“Well yeah, more like many months before you.” I chuckled, rubbing the back of my head.

“Huh, that’s pretty cool! Hee hee, guess it makes sense to show the world how much cool of a celebrity are!” Skye grinned. “But you know, this is pretty cool. Wish I knew much about this place.”

“Well we will know once we solve any of the mysteries.” Kaede stated before realizing something. “Oh right! Ren, do you remember about the note and the Prism Crystal?”

“Oh right! I forgot about that!” I quickly took out the smudge note along with the Prism Crystal. “Hmm, if I shine some light onto it, we might find out what’s going on.”

“Whoa, is that a crystal?!” Skye asked in awe. “It’s so gray! Can I see it for a bit?”

“Umm…maybe later?” I offered. “So how does it work?”

“I don’t know. We aren’t experts on magic.” Rantaro rolled his eyes.

“You must use the light. Though, why not use your Hacking Gun? Put it in your power supply.” Nicole instructed.

“Power supply?” I asked in confusion before she walked over and pointed to a small panel at the side of my trigger. I blinked in surprise upon seeing it. Wow…I never noticed that. “Oh…thank you.”

I managed to open it before seeing another small crystal inside of it. 

“There’s another crystal inside, and it’s multi-color.” I stated, staring at the crystal. 

“Really? Could that be the power source?” Jamie questioned.

“Well, I guess but…if its in there, how can we get it inside of the Hacking Gun?” Kaede wondered.

As we all wondered about that, a bright light came from the multi-colored crystal as it slowly began showing a beam of light into the Prism Crystal, sucking it inside of it.

“What the hell?!” Jack exclaimed. “What just happened?!”

“Whoa! Did that seriously just happened?! Awesome!” Skye smiled brightly before realizing what she said and cleared her throat. “I-I mean…that was some excellent work there, Corporeal Loodan!”

“Um…thank you?” I chuckled sheepishly, sweat-dropping a little. She’s kinda like a little kid whenever her demanding general-like personality drops down. 

“So what now?” Carrie asked. “Did it work or…?”

“Only one way to find out.” I shrugged before closing the small panel down as I began switching the dial to something. Hmm…well if I remember what Celeste and Lulu said, it shines its light to uncover the thickness of darkness or something like that. Hmm…maybe…

“Detect!” I began using Detect, shining the purple light over the note, which was rested over at a nearby table I placed as the others walked over and soon watched over the black smudges slowly disappearing in sight.

“Whoa, it really worked.” Jamie commented in awe. 

“How did you know that might’ve work?” Mason asked in confusion. 

“I don’t know.” Ren shrugged. “It just…sorta came to my head.”

“Huh…” Mason muttered.

“So does that mean that we can read it?” Carrie asked.

“Yeah!” Kodi nodded. “Hey Ren, what does it say? What does it say?!”

“Hold on, hold on.” I picked up the note and looked through it. “You guys ready?”
Everyone nodded, but Skye began flailing her arms around and exclaimed “Whoa! What in the world was that?! I never seen anything do that before! What did that crystal do or…or…!”

“Hey, calm down brat.” Jack huffed, grabbing her by the back collar. 

“H-Hey! Put me down Private Yamaki!” Skye demanded.

“Shut it.” Jack huffed before turning to me. “Hey kid, what does the note say?”

“Huh? Oh well…” I looked over to the note and began reading it aloud. Every bit I read it…it only adds on much more on what we previously knew so far.

- From the Executives Office of the Connelly Foudation....
Through it the years, We have been committed to watching and helping the world in order to help the people in search of their lost futures. But we’re regret to inform that the world is facing an epidemic crisis. Ever since the biggest incident that occurred several months ago, the epidemic worse and this creation lead to be a problem for mankind. That is why we decided to work on Project Ark. But make no mistake, this is not the end for the Connelly Foudation nor the future of mankind. We will find a cure for the virus. We sincerely thank everyone for your help and start over the years. For now, we are going under investigation and it would surely that we might've discovered the cause of the Dusk-7 Virus. Though, it should have been obvious the moment we created the monsters to harness its power to help the world. For now, we’re developing the cure but we will surely be ready to find any possible survivors. Once we find any possible survivors, we’ll report back to show about it. For now, we already gained nine people who appeared to show no symptoms about it…If we find them and interview them, then we may sure find a possible way to secure the hope of mankind. Then Project Ark can start.“
- Sincerely, the Executives Office.

It was that moment the atmosphere turned silent and dark. After I was done finishing this up, everyone looked at each other in shock, disturbance, and anger.

“What the hell is this crap?!” Jack exclaimed. “Is this some sort of joke?!”

“The Dusk-7 Virus…?” Nicole questioned, rubbing her chin in thought. “That’s quite strange…”

“I’ll say…” Rantaro nodded, hardly fazed by these news. “So the world is facing an epidemic of some virus. Heh, when crap gone really crazy, this happened…”

“S-So whole world is being threatened by a deadly virus?!” Kaede exclaimed. “That’s insane! I never even heard about it!”

“Me too! And this Darken Heart Virus?! This is relevantly new!” Jamie sputtered. “I-I mean, I’ve reviewed many viruses, illnesses, and many other symptoms of different cases of virus and such, but this is just new! What could it mean?!”

“So none of us remembered this, huh?” Mason asked, which we nodded as I answered “Yeah, it would seem so. That’s another case of our memories. Looks like our missing memories of how we got here isn’t the only case, we don’t know much about that.”

“So deadly virus spreading around the world in a wildfire? Wow, that’s pretty cray-cray.” Skye blinked in shock. “And what in the hay is this Connelly Foundation?”

“I think I have heard about them somewhere…” Nicole hummed. 

“Really? I don’t really know…” I smiled sheepishly.

“Hmm…you know, there’s one thing I’m confused.” Carrie frowned.

“What is it Carrie?” Mason asked in concern.

“It’s about the part how they created something about monsters. Does that mean that these guys were involved onto creating these monsters?” Carrie wondered. 

“Yeah, it would seem so.” Mason couldn’t help but agreed there. “Whoever this Connelly Foundation is, surely we’ll remembered once Princess Luna manages to release one of our locked-up memories.”

“Hey, what you guys’ talking about?” Skye asked. “Who’s this Princess Luna?”

“She’s one of the rulers of Equestria and a good friend to us.” I explained. “Trust me, she’s a really friendly pony with a weird Shakespeare accent.”

“Whatever, you maggots show it to me.” Skye grinned. “You know, as your general in charge of this mission.”

“We just barely met you like five minutes and you already call yourself a general?” Jack snorted.

“Though, about the Connelly Foundation…I know for sure I’ve heard about them somewhere.” Nicole thought aloud.

“Well give it time and maybe you would remember.” Rantaro joked. “Heh, like you could due to your silent nature.”

Nicole doesn’t remark on that and just remains silent from his answer.

Yep, he’s definitely right about that…Not that I’m not arguing or complaining about that. 

“But…a virus affecting the earth?! I don’t believe it!” Kaede exclaimed in shock.

“As much as I want to disbelieve in that, I…think maybe we need to believe it.” Jamie frowned, much to our surprise. “W-Well…this is just a thought, but remember those dreams we had based on our lost memories that Princess Luna manages to break free? Well maybe…they may relate to that. I mean, that’s what I think…”

“Well…I guess.” I couldn’t help but agreed to that.

“But this Dusk-7 Virus….What could that be?” Mason wondered.

“Wish I knew.” Rantaro shrugged.

“Bullcrap! I never even heard of any crap like that!” Jack hissed, clenching his fists before slamming it into the table, creating a bit of a dent while the rest of us flinched back of that impact. 

“H-Hold it Private Yamaki!” Skye exclaimed. “While this is all crazy, even I’m comprehending by everything that’s happening, but all we gotta do is just see what’s in the end and find out much about our missing memories, you got it maggot?”

“Tch…fine.” Jack huffed, putting his feet on the table. “Tch…this all been a waste.”

“I wouldn’t say so Jack.” I smiled, reassuring him. “I mean, at least we found some new clues about our missing memories.”

“Ren’s right. And like he, Jamie, and Skye said, we need to keep calm and accept everything we learned.” Mason nodded in agreement.

“Yeah, and besides, I think it clears some mysteries.” Jamie nodded in agreed. “At least we finally figured out how many of us are left.”

“What do you mean?” Kaede asked.

“Well-”

“He means that the contents of the note stated that this Connelly  Foundation founded nine survivors, which means it could be stating about us, am I right?” Nicole questioned.

“R-Right…” Jamie sweat-dropped, smiling sheepishly at her.

“Nine survivors…So that must mean that we must be the only ones left.” Rantaro smirked. 

“N-Now hold on…I’m sure there’s a logical explanation!” Kaede exclaimed. “I mean, there could be more people, right?”

“I guess…but…I’m sure there were nine people.” I nodded in agreement. “I remembered something Discord said to me…about how us nine were more than immune…I think he meant that us nine must be immune to that virus the note described.”

“Discord? Immune? Okay, slow down Corporeal Loodan!” Skye spoken up, her eyes widening a bit. “You know, you need to slow down for us…and by us, I meant these guys.”

“Discord?” Rantaro questioned.

“He’s a guy who’s combined with any mythical creature and animal into one body. He’s pretty evil, but seems pretty cocky yet chill about most things.” I shrugged, explaining to them who Discord is.

“Heh, that sounds stupid.” Jack huffed. “So you guys met him?”

“Yeah, and big brother, Ren and Kaede defeated him along with the other girls!” Carrie smiled.

“Yeah, he was pretty evil looking but he was turned back into a statue with the magic of friendship.” Kodi smiled brightly, wagging his tail.

“Turned into a statue?” Nicole questioned before realizing what we were talking about. 

“Ah…that explains about that weird statue back over at the gardens last I visited Canterlot.”

“Yeah, that’s the one.” I nodded. 

“Jeez, you guys went all this adventuring and somehow seemed to complete your training? Gotta say, not bad for a pack of maggots.” Skye grinned. “Hee hee, wish I was there for all that kick-butting and show them who’s in charge?”

“Yeah…right.” Jack rolled his eyes, earning a scolding look from her.

“Oh yeah? Just for that, I’m demoting you soldier!” Skye exclaimed, earning a snort from Jack. She then rubbed her chin and mumbled “I wonder what kind of worse punishment I could give you for your attitude?”

“Being around you?” Jack joked.

“Wrong! Being around ‘you’!” Um…I don’t get it. Is that some sort of reference to something?

“So…nine survivors? Wow…I’m seriously taking all of this…” Kaede muttered. “I mean…this Project Ark, nine survivors and other stuff stated on that note…is it really true?”

“Apparently so, that might explain our current situation. But that doesn’t explain why in a colorful world filled with talking ponies, dangerous creatures, and evil boring villains.” Rantaro shrugged. “I’m pretty sure that’s what all in our minds right now…”

“Mm…” Nicole hummed in agreement before saying “That is the only mystery we know so far. Why here?”

“Yeah…that is confusing.” Kaede nodded in agreement. “I just hope we all can figure this out…”

“Don’t worry everyone, I know that we can do it.” I reassured with a soft smile. “Maybe the earth is in danger from Darken Heart Virus, but maybe they made that cure for us.”

“True…there’s still a chance that earth is still there.” Mason nodded.

“Yeah, we can’t give up!” Carrie smiled happily.

“Hm…” Nicole nodded.

“Yeah, hopefully! I mean, I have a dream back there and that’s flying a plane!” Skye exclaimed, much to our surprise. “What? I never mentioned it?”

“No, you didn’t brat.” Jack gave her a deadpanned look. 

“Well I’ll have you know chubby that I always wanted to work on a plane, and it would be awesome to do it!” Skye exclaimed with a confidant look. “I always wanted to fly a plane and once so, I can reach high to the skies!”

“That’s a pretty nice dream.” I complimented. “I know that you can do it if you try.”

“Heh heh, thanks.” Skye winked. “Alright, so is that everything so far in this ship?”

“Nah, there’s plenty of stuff like a pool, all these shops and stuff you find here in the mall district, the living room, the kitchen, our rooms, a garage, a library, a changing room just near the pool.” Jamie listed it off his notebook.

“Whoa, this place is like a cruise ship. Whoever developed this place is getting a five star review from me.” Skye chuckled. “This place is pretty awesome and I can definitely work on my VR system…that is if this place has a workshop.”

“Well, I’m sure you’re gonna like it here.” I smiled.

“Thanks Corporeal Loodan.” Skye grinned. “So now, let’s get to work onto finding a new place out of here.”

“That’s the idea.” Rantaro shrugged. “So what now?”

“I'll be going on my own investigation for a little bit.” Nicole suggested.

“What? Why?” I asked curiously.

“Just to check something out that we might've missed.”

“What makes you say that?” Carrie asked, but Nicole doesn’t say anything back to her.

“Hey! Answer back at us! Private Bonnie!” Skye exclaimed. “Don’t let me unleash the beast at you!”

“…I don’t know. I just know.” Nicole replied back before taking her leave. 

“Huh?” We all looked at each other in confusion, wondering what does she mean by that. Nicole may be a good friend, in my opinion, but I still feel wonder if she could help us at all.

“Hang on you guys. I’m gonna go after her.” I insisted, getting up from the table and following after her. “You guys just keep investigating the mall if there’s anything we missed other than new NASCAR track circuit shop!” 

“Hey! Don’t leave me!” Skye exclaimed, running beside me. “You still got a good lump of work to do if you want to succeed as leader, Corporeal Loodan.”

“Heh heh, right.” I nodded with a sheepish grin before catching up to Nicole, who was waiting for the elevator doors to open. “Oh! Nicole!”

“Yes?” Nicole called, glancing at me and Skye. “What are you two doing here?”

“We were worried about you and-”

“Wanted to know what I am going to investigate, am I right?” Nicole questioned, adjusting her glasses. 

“Well…yeah. I mean, you’re always so secretive and quiet that I want to figure you out.” I stated. “So can you please tell me what’s going on?”

“Hmm…I have many things that I wish I could remember, but at the same time, I am not too sure if that is good.” Nicole sighed, cleaning the lenses of her glasses before putting it back on her face. “Although, maybe there’s the small chance we might learn about our arrival to this new world we are living in.”

“Yeah, we know that already!” Skye exclaimed. “And while this Equestria is quite amazing with all this magic and stuff, which I want to go out there and check it out right now, you seemed to hold back a lot of info on us!”

“Mm…” Nicole muttered.

“Yeah, I mean, come on Nicole…you can trust us. I promise that whatever you know or hiding, I promise-”

“That you would tell the others and have them trust whatever I know, right?” Well yeah, you guessed it. She really does read me like a book, probably almost anypony around here can read me like a book. 

“Well while we’re searching, I’ll be able to have my copter be my eyes.” Skye grinned. 

“Now come on, quick being such a bunch of whiners and investigate this place Private Bonnie wants to go to.”

“Hm…Okay then, just please be quiet. I can’t work if you guys act like that.” Nicole stated, which we nodded before entering the elevator as she pressed the top button on the panel before it started going down, straight back to the living room. 

We headed over straight to my room and straight through the secret wall and into the secret white room. The room where we all woken up from those secret pods. 

“Hey, I know this place!” Skye gasped. “This is the same room where I woken up and that’s the pod that I’ve woken up!”

Skye pointed over to one of the pods over by the farthest right of the wall. All nine pods were lined up with five on the right and four by the left. I still can’t believe that nine of us woken up at the same place, and now we’re all together. This is all too crazy…

“So why are we here again?” I asked curiously. 

Nicole didn’t respond before walking over to the white wall between the white room and pressed her hand over it. Huh? Why is she doing that? Is there a reason for that?

As me and Skye kept watching, we heard a clicking sound before seeing a part of the white wall started pushing back and opened up a dark hallway.

“A secret entrance?!” I gasped.

“It would seem so.” Nicole hummed. “But why here?”

“Hey, you don’t think-”

“That would it lead to a dead end?” Nicole guessed, surprising Skye before she nodded. “Hm….I guess.”

“You guess?” Skye asked incredulously. “Not good with answers, are ya Private Bonnie?”

Nicole doesn’t respond back to her before she began heading inside of the secret entrance with the two of us following after her. As we caught up to her and saw how dark and gritty it was walking through here, I walked right next to Nicole and asked “So Nikki, how did you know that there was a secret entrance?”

“Hmm…I don’t know. I just had this feeling…” Nicole muttered.

“Huh…I see.” I nodded in understanding. This feeling…does it relate to her memories? Hmm…well either way, whatever we’re heading into would lead us to any more clues. 

As we reached to the other side of the small dark hallway, we find ourselves in what looks like a tornado swept through here. It was a small brown room with a computer by a desk at the far left corner of the place with a shelf filled with books, but it looked like it was all fallen apart along with a bunch of blank white papers all over the floor.
Seeing this place made us look like someone was destroying this place.

“Jeez…what the frigging Arnold happened here?” Skye blinked in surprise. “Did somebody tried to blew up this place?”

“Maybe…” Nicole muttered before walking over to the computer and attempted to turn it on, but the screen remained blank. “No power…typical.”

“Well I guess…but no offense, but it’s not like we can Google our way through.” I chuckled nervously. 

“You kidding? Course we can Corporeal Loodan. Google’s always the answer!” Skye smirked. “Fudge Yahoo and all those other search-websites, Google is the key to our answers.”

“Well…can’t help but argue with that.” I mean, I practically go on my computer all day and search up anything that I want to find with the help of Google. So…yeah. Maybe that could work.

“Well…I guess I can’t do anything. Though this room seemed to hold something important, but what?” Nicole wondered aloud before examining much of the room’s quarters. Me and Skye looked at each other and nodded before we began to help her in our search around this room.

Skye looked over at a bunch of stack books and tried to take out one of them till she manged to make them all fall on top of her.

“You okay Skye?!” I asked in concern.

“D-Don’t worry about Corporeal Loodan! I’m a-okay!” Skye popped her hand out of there with a thumbs-up, much to my relief. 

“Hey. Come look at this.” We all turned to Nicole as she took out a folder from out of the desk drawers and examined it. I ran over to it while Skye managed to get herself out of the stack of books that was on her before heading out, trying to stand up to get a better look at the folder Nicole had in her hands.

It had the words ‘Classified’ on it. With a name like that, I bet there is something good in here. It might show us much about our missing memories.

“What is this? A file?” I asked warily before reading the type of the name and when I did, I grew shocked. “Project Ark?!”

“Wait, isn’t that the same name described on that letter you guys somehow managed to read by wiping off those black smudges?” Skye questioned.

“Apparently…” Nicole muttered.

“So this file has info about the project?” I wondered.

“Okay, so what does it say?!” Skye demanded, getting excited. “If I really lost my memories like you guys said, so maybe it can fill us in?!”

“I guess…” I shrugged before smiling softly. “Who knows? It could happen.”

“Ha! I’m lucky that I woken up yesterday and after being told of all this crazy stuff, I’m actually pretty early for the big twist.” Skye gave us a peace sign with a smirk on her face before clearing her throat. “So anyway, care to read it Private Bonnie?”

Nicole let out a nod before she opened up the file and saw a bunch of papers inside it with the front page showing something detailed on it.


“Project Ark.”
“The last hope to save humanity from the disaster raining down from space. Burdened with this imperative project are the Adams and Eves of the new world. Those who are selected for it will be the seeds of hope for the future of humanity. That is the purpose of Project Ark.” 


Huh…Adams and Eves of the new world? Could it possibly refer to us as ‘Adams and Eves’ and the new world ‘Equestria’?

“W-Well…what does the rest say?” Skye asked, pointing her finger at me. “Come on! Don’t leave us in suspense! Just say it Private Bonnie!”

“Unfortunately, I can’t.” Nicole shook her head before showing us the rest of the papers, revealing each and every sentence were blacked out with a permanent black marker. 

“The rest of it is blacked out, I can’t ready any further.”

“Huh? Seriously?!” I exclaimed in shock.

“What?! What the heck?!” Skye exclaimed. “What the fudge?!”

Why is that part covered up? Now what are we gonna do?! Wait…that part…

“Hey, about the part that says the Adams and Eves of this new world…you don’t think it’s mentioning us, right?” I questioned with a slight frown. 

“And what the heck is this seeds of hope?” Skye questioned. “What kind of hope is it talking about? Knowing so far with this isn’t giving us any hope at all.”

“Indeed…” Nicole muttered, looking through the rest of the files through the single folder, finding all of the paper all blacked off. 

Man…and I thought we were so close. Though I guess it’s a relief that we managed to find some info about this Project Ark and such. Though, I wonder what’s this about this Dusk-7 Virus…It sounds like something out of a Shonen Anime. 

As Nicole was looking through the file….a slip of paper fell out of the file, and I turned my attention to it.

“What’s this…?” I asked, picking the piece of paper up. It wasn’t very long but it wasn’t blacked off like the rest in the file as I read a single sentence on it.


“You must not leave.”


“Eh? That’s it?” Skye asked, grabbing the piece of paper out of my hands and looked through it. “Well this is a hunk of junk!”

“Though…why does it say it like that?” Nicole wondered. “Something is wrong with the way it was written.”

“Yeah…I kinda have to agreed.” I nodded in agreement, voicing out my opinion. “I could understand if it said, like, ‘I can’t leave’. But ‘you must not leave’?”

…

What is this? My head feels…funny. This strange sensation. It’s like deja vu…Those words…you must not leave…I don’t know why…but I feel like I’ve seen that…somewhere before…

“But…I can’t quite remember…” I muttered.

What do I know? What don’t I know? I….I….I don’t know…I can’t remember…

“….” Nicole stares at the piece of paper before placing it back in her pockets. “In any case…I’m afraid finding this secret room seems like it was another hope shattered moment.”

“Aww…that sucks!” Skye complained. “I can’t believe it! That is so suckish! Now what?!”

“Well…” Before I could say anything, we heard something beep inside of the room.

“Huh? My remote control?” Skye took out her helicopter’s control and looked at the small  monitor. “What the hay is going-Huh?”

“What? What’s up Skye?”

Nicole and I walked over to her side and saw through her monitor.

“Fun! Fun! Fun! Fun!” What the heck? Pinkie Pie? 

“Hey, Private Pink! What are you doing with my copter?!” Skye demanded, glaring hard through the screen. 

“Fun! Fun fun fun!” Huh? What the? Okay, I know Pinkie is really weird but this is next-level weird. We soon see another pair of familiar eyes that managed to move over Pinkie and introduced themselves as…

“Pinkie?!” I exclaimed in surprise.

“What in the?! Does this pink pony have a twin or something?!” Skye exclaimed in shock.

“No, at least she never told us about that.” I shook my head.

“She doesn’t. She told me that once.” Nicole clarified, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Anyway, what is going on?”

“Dang nabbit! Round them up!” Huh? Was that Applejack? What’s going on here? We better go upstairs and investigate this.

“Okay, who made that cowgirl voice?” Skye wondered, squinting her eyes through the small monitor.

“No time! We need to hurry back with the others! Come on!”

We quickly rushed out of the room, however, before I could leave…

“..El…lo….H….el…lo…”

Huh? W-Who said that? I looked around before noticing the broken down computer over by the desk as‌ I‌ slowly walked over there and saw it fainting glowing before it turned on with a shining light green in the background with many computer programming codes, and what the screen showed was some shadowy figure that was in the shape of a man.

“…If…anyone…who hears me…I want to say….believe…in…hope…I…wish…we could…meet…but…please…take care….of her…don’t forget about…h..ope….”‌ 

With that, the screen turned off while I stood there in bewilderment. Holy cow…what was that? 

“Ren!”‌ H-Huh?! Oh crap!‌ They’re waiting!‌ I-I need to get going now! I decided to hold back what I‌ saw on the computer screen before heading out of the secret room and followed after the others back to the small white room.‌ As we headed out of the room, the entrance that led us to the secret room started closing before we quickly headed out back to the elevator. 

“Okay, this better be good!”‌ Skye huffed, tapping her foot impatiently on the floor as the elevator took us back up to the top of the ship; The Mall District. However, the moment the doors opened…

“No…..way…..”‌ What the heck?!‌ What is this?!

Right in front of us, were a thousands of Pinkie Pie roaming across the mall, acting up in a frenzy. Holy cow, look at them all, just what is going on here anymore?!

“Get back here!”‌ Huh?‌ I saw Jack and Rainbow Dash grabbing ahold many Pinkie Pies as possible. Applejack used her lasso to round all of the Pinkie‌ Pies up. Fluttershy, Rarity, Kaede, and Carrie attempted to sweet-talk them, but they kept annoying them by repeating the same word….

“Fun!‌ Fun!‌‌ Fun! Fun!‌”

Yep, no offense Pinkie, but you’re kinda annoying me for you to repeat.

“Ugh…and this is what ‌I get being around you guys.”‌ Rantaro groaned in annoyance, sitting down on a chair just near a table as he drank some Starbucks Cappuccino. 

“Guys, what’s going on here?!” I‌ exclaimed in shock, seeing all of the Pinkies being rounded up by the gang.

“We don’t know…”‌ Jamie came over alongside with Twilight, each holding books in their hands. “Apparently, they just popped right from the elevator five minutes after you guys left while we continued to investigate through the mall district.”

“Yeah, it’s been a real problem with all…this.” Twilight cleared her throat with a sheepish smile. “Sorry about all this…”

“It’s alright Twilight.”‌I reassured with a soft smile.

“You! Purple horse!”‌ Skye called, gaining Twilight’s attention, including the other girls. 

“Huh?!”‌‌ The Mane Six exclaimed in shock upon seeing Skye. 

“Yeah, I’m talking to you!‌ Who the hay are you girls?!”‌ Skye demanded.

“Oh my, another new human?!”‌ Rarity gasped. 

“Wait, is this the new human you told me about, Jamie?‌”‌ ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌Twilight questioned, which Jamie nodded. 

“She’s just some kid.”‌ Rainbow Dash commented. 

“Shut it pony!”‌‌ Skye exclaimed. “Names!‌ Now!”

“Um…okay?”‌ Applejack raised a brow at her. 

“My oh my, how rude she is?”‌ Rarity questioned. 

“Hey! No back-talking the general!‌”‌‌ Skye hissed. “Names!‌ Now!”

“Um…Applejack.”‌

“It’s Rarity.”

“Names Rainbow Dash!”

“I-I’m Fluttershy.”

“I’m‌ Twilight Sparkle.”‌ 

“I see…So those are your names?‌‌ I get it now.”‌ Skye nodded in agreement.‌ “So those are your names, huh? Okay then, very well Private Twilight, Private Dash, Private Rarity, Private Fluttershy, and‌ Private Applejack.”

“What is with all that ‘Private’ business?‌” Rainbow Dash asked.

“It’s military term for low ranking.”‌ Jamie explained. “She appears to be a military fanatic, so I’m afraid that you’ll get used to her soon enough.”

“Um, it’s very nice to meet you, um, Skye.” Fluttershy greeted her with a soft smile. 

“U-Um…so that means…you’re new here to Equestria?”

“So I‌ heard.”‌ Skye nodded in agreement. “Now then, give us the run-through with this little external crisis of…Private‌ Pinkie Pie.”

“Well…we don’t know, but I‌ think it has something to do with what Pinkie Pie told me earlier.”‌ Twilight explained. “You see, she’s been going through all out trying to have some fun with the rest of us all day, and when I‌ told her that she can’t be at two places at the same time, she brought up something called ‘The Legend of the Mirror Pool’ and such.”

“Mirror Pool?”‌ Kaede asked in confusion. 

“I feel like I’ve read that somewhere during my late night reading…”‌ Jamie looked through his notebook. “I copied much of the notes there and placed bookmarks on them to give out where it should be…”

Jamie skimmed through his notebook before smiling softly upon finding it out.

“Oh…here we go. I‌ did copied the notes about it once.”‌ Jamie smiled softly.

“What does it say nerd?” Jack asked, walking over before throwing away the ‌Pinkie Pies that he grabbed. 

“Oh….now I’m starting to see what’s happening.” Jamie hummed.

“What do you mean?”‌ Carrie asked curiously.

“Well according to here that I‌ written, the Mirror Pool, or the Mirror Pond, is an mystical lake that has the power to duplicate whoever stands in front of it. It’s located somewhere in the Everfree Forest and it's apparently enchanted."

"What was your first guess?" Jack huffed. "So now what? The pink dork somehow found out about that mirror pond and duplicated herself?"

"Can't say that's something we don't hear everyday." Rantaro rolled his eyes. "So now what? How can we tell which one is the real Pinkie Pie?"

"We've tried figuring that out, but no luck!" Applejack huffed. 

"How...exactly did they get here?" I questioned curiously, which made the girls blushed in embarrassment. 

"Um, please don't get mad..." Fluttershy frowned. "But, um, Ren...we-"

"Decided to bring them here in order to make sure that they don't cause anymore trouble than they already are in Ponyville, am I right?" Nicole guessed, hardly surprising the Mane Six as Fluttershy meekly replied "Y-Yes..."

"Really? What did they do?" I asked in confusion.

"Those varmints ruined my farm when me and Big Mac and some other relatives of ours destroyed our home!" Applejack exclaimed, showing how upset she was. 

"I even just had a Pinkie hurricane raging through my shop!" Rarity exclaimed.

"And they trashed our critter panic." Fluttershy added, frowning.

"They even messed up tomorrow's scheduled drizzle!" Rainbow Dash huffed, much to our shock.

"What? But how? She's an Earth Pony!" Jamie exclaimed.

"You know, I saw the whole thing and I still can't figure it out!" Rainbow Dash gritted her teeth.

"Weirdo." Jack sighed. "Alright, so what do you want us to do?" 

"Well I've already read about much about this Mirror Pool when Pinkie mentioned it to me." Twilight explained. "All I have to do is zap them back to the Mirror Pool..."

"But...?" Rantaro questioned.

"But...If I shoot the real Pinkie Pie, I might end up having her trapped within the Mirror Pool forever." Twilight sheepishly smiled, much to our shock.

So wait...if we hit the real Pinkie Pie....then...how are we to ever figure this out?

"Well this is stupid." Jack sighed, rubbing his butt. "Okay...so what now? How the hell can we be so sure to know which one is the real one?"

"That's why we brought them here because we needed someplace else to make sure that they aren't causing any trouble back at Ponyville!" Applejack exclaimed.

"Well somebody think of something fast!" Rainbow Dash yelled, attempting to get one of the Pinkies off the ceiling light. "I can't keep hold of them forever!"

"Ha! Wimp!" Jack smirked before grabbing two more Pinkies by the hair. "Maybe you can't, and so can I, but at least give it a try."

"Um...I'm not sure that's how the saying goes, Jack." Jamie stated nervously.

"So does anyone else have a plan?" Twilight asked hopefully. 

"Actually, that might be quite easy!" Skye grinned. "Why not round them up at the Movie Theaters? I think I got something that we can use to identify the real Pinkie."

"Hmm..." I noticed Nicole humming and gazing at one of the Pinkies, but however, I soon took notice that the Pinkie she was staring at was all droopy and looked miserable and depressed. Wonder what's up with her? Wait...could it be...?

"Well...I guess that could work." Twilight nodded. "But what do you got, Skye, was it?"

"You'll all see and witness what this genius girl got in her hands!" Skye smirked.
With that smile, I think she does got an idea.



Later

"Okay, so glad you all could join in!" 

Well you did invite us over to the Cinema Lobby. Anyway, Jack, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Twilight, Mason, and I managed to get every single Pinkie Pies who entered the Mall straight into one of the theaters section where the audience sits. 

I never really explored much of this place when this movie theater was first opened up. Though, it looks really cool from the inside. It's gotten everything what a Movie Theater should have. Plus, the movie lobbies looks really legit.

Anyway, we all managed to get everyone over by one of the Theaters' lobbies as Skye took at the end of where the projection screen was while all of the Pinkies sat down on the movie seats.

"Fun! Fun! Fun! Fun!" All of the Pinkies kept cheering endlessly till Skye took out a whistle and let out a loud sound, forcing all of them, even us, to wince at the sound of it.

"Oh my Celestia!" Rarity hissed. "That is one loud whistle!"

"I'll say..." I nodded in agreement.

"Ah...I think my eardrums explode..." Rantaro picked his ear, feeling annoyed. "Remind me again why can't I leave?"

"Because if you do, then I'll likely drag you back inside here." Mason said sternly. "We can't let one of us leave, otherwise all of the Pinkie clones would try and escape."

"He's right you know." I nodded in agreement, much to Rantaro's annoyance.

"And you're basically wasting my time with me being around you all." Rantaro scoffed. Jeez, we're just saying.

"Alright! Listen up you all!" Skye yelled. "I want you Pinkies to please shut your mouth unless I address one of you all to speak!"

"Fun! Fun! Fun!" Well, that surely didn't work. 

When Skye noticed how none of them were listening to what she was saying, she blew into her whistle again, gaining the Pinkies' attention. 

"Good! Now listen to me!" Skye shouted. "Now I suppose you're all wondering why me and my comrades gathered you all here today."

"For fun?" A confused Pinkie offered.

"If you be quiet, then yes." Skye nodded before taking out a pair of weird looking goggles. 

"Those are...Night vision goggles." Mason blinked, recognizing the items.

"Huh? Night Vision goggles?" Rarity questioned.

"What the hay is that?" Applejack asked, raising a brow at him.

"Oh yeah, I've heard about them." I spoken up, gaining the girls' attention. "You see, Night vision goggles are items that are used for people to see through the dark."

"It's well use in wars and blackouts." Mason added. "Though, what is she planning to do with them?"

"Now then, shall we begin?" Skye questioned.

"Hey wait! We got one more!" Huh? We all turned around to see Jack and Rainbow Dash bringing in one last Pinkie Pie into the group, but this one was depressing looking, literally.

"Found this one poking on the floor with her hoof and looked like she went through hell." Jack pushed the Pinkie onto one of the available seats of the theaters' lobby. "Okay, now we're ready!'

"OK, now then, I'm going to give you some Q&A Quiz." Skye stated, much to all of the Pinkie's disappointment as they all let out groans. "Shut it maggots! Now I'm gonna give you all questions that you all are gonna answer."

"Also..." Twilight walked onto stage, standing next to Skye as she pointed over to the projector screen. "You all are gonna stare at the screen for a long time. If you answer the question wrong or if you start goofing off, I'm sending you all back into the Mirror Pool."

All of the Pinkies all widened their eyes in horror and paled at the thought of that.

"Ha ha...good." Skye smirked. "Now then...first question, what did Pinkie did to me when we just met earlier when I was busy teaching my comrades a lesson of respect?"

Most of the Pinkies didn't raise their hooves in the air, but some did as Skye picked one of them randomly.

"Yes?" Skye asked.

"Uhh...we had fun?" The Pinkie offered with a soft smile, hoping for it to be the answer.

"Wrong answer." Skye said bluntly before turning to Twilight and nodded, which she fired a spell from her horn, causing the Pinkie to puff up like a balloon before poofing into a swirl of pink sparkly stuff that zoomed right out of the doors.

"What the heck?" I muttered in surprise. 

"They just puffed up like a ball and blew up!" Kodi barked in shock. "Is that what the spell does?!"

"To be honest, even we didn't see that coming." Rainbow Dash shrugged.

"Next question!" Skye yelled before noticing another Pinkie bouncing up and down to reach the ceiling as she exclaimed "Watch me bounce and catch the ceiling! Whee!"

"Definitely fake, shoot it." Skye called, which Twilight obliged by shooting that Pinkie with her spell, including some who stared at her. "Ha, easy as pie. Besides, they were fakes."

"So wait, you knew that?" Carrie asked. "Is it because of those goggles?"

"Yep! These Night Vision goggles are known to see through the dark, including by body temperature. Every single one of these Pinkies don't seem to contribute to body heat, so we know that these aren't the real deal. Although, since there's too many of these bad ponies that it's hard to find the right one."

"What?" Jack asked. "Speak a little bit in English, brat."

"She means all of these Pinkies are crowding up the source." Nicole clarified. "Of course, I know which one of them are the real Pinkie Pie."

"Huh? You do?" Kaede asked in surprise. "Well, which one is it?"

Nicole didn't respond and looks through her iPad, ignoring Kaede's question.

"Never mind...you can be silent..." Kaede sighed.

"Now then, who's next?" Twilight smirked.

Well...I can already tell this might take a while. For the past fifteen minutes or so did Skye pointed out the many Pinkies who were not staring at the projector screen or even answered the right questions that Twilight didn't seem to think was right.

It was pretty easy considering all of these Pinkies didn't answer right and didn't want to bother with the challenge.

As time passes, only two Pinkies remained. One was biting her hoof nervously while the other was still staring at the projector screen with a sad state. Hmm...well...I guess I'm starting to think that the sad looking Pinkie is the real one since she hadn't muttered 'Fun' or anything that ends with 'Fun' at it.

"Hmm..." Skye muttered. "Okay then, I think I know and see the real Pinkie Pie right now, but...Aww, I can't seem to find the right one...I guess we'll just leave it to lady luck then."

"Really? How so?" I asked curiously. 

"Okay then...let me ask you guys some questions." Skye said with a smirk on her face. "What's my name, Private Pinkie? The one name you gave to me before you left us from my new room?" 

"Um...fun?" One of the Pinkie asked curiously, earning silence from Skye. "Super duper fun? Ultra fun?"

"Wrong answer." Skye said bluntly. "Do it now Twilight!"

"With pleasure!" Twilight grinned before managing to shoot the one Pinkie who answered, blowing her up before exploding into pink sparkles and glitters.

"Well?" Skye questioned.

"Well...General Skye Jones." Pinkie answered. "R-Right?"

"Right answer! Smart choice, Private Pinkie!" Skye chuckled. "Just for that, I'll be expecting a promotion young mare!"

"Pinkie Pie!" Carrie cheered, running through the seats and hugging Pinkie Pie. "You did it! You're really here!"

"Ha ha, thanks Carrie." Pinkie smiled softly, hugging her back.

"Thank goodness that we didn't send you back to the Mirror Pool forever." Rarity sighed in relief.

"Yeah, good to have you back." I chuckled happily as Pinkie and Carrie walked out from the seats and met us at the doors of the theaters. 

"Thanks you guys, though I'm sorry for causing you so much trouble back there." Pinkie frowned. "I didn't mean for any of this to happen..."

"Oh yeah, why did you use the Mirror Pool in the first place? And how did you even find out about it?" Kaede questioned. 

"Oh! I once heard about it from my Nana Pinkie who told me so much about the Legend of the Mirror Pool and told me if you stare at its reflection and repeat these words 'And into her own reflection she stared, uh, yearning for one whose reflection she shared, and solemnly sweared not to be scared at the prospect of being doubly mared' , then you'll get a clone!" Pinkie explained.

"So you knew about it this whole time and where it was?" Nicole questioned, which Pinkie nodded.

"But still, why would you go all this way to make duplicate clones of yourself?" I asked with a confused look. 

"Because...I was trying to go all my way to spend time with all of you." Pinkie frowned sadly. "Applejack and her family with the barn raising, spending some time with Rainbow Dash, go to Fluttershy's critter picnic, and even spend time with you guys and your new human friend."

"Oh, so you wanted to spend time with us?" Kodi frowned before asking "But we could have helped you."

"He's right Pinkie Pie. I mean, you didn't have to go through all this way just so to be at two places at once." I smiled.

"True...but I really wanted to hang out with you guys so much." Pinkie stated. 

"Well either way, you did great." Skye complimented, walking over to her. "I know we just barely met, but I gotta say, I like the enthusiasm you carry Private Pinkie."

"Does she always talk like that?" Rainbow Dash whispered to Jack, who nodded in agreement and whispered "Yeah...it's get annoying from time to time."

"Aww, thanks General Skye!" Pinkie hugged her tightly. "Just for that, I'll be sure to include you in your very own 'Welcome to Ponyville' party! You're new here to Ponyville and we should include you in the group!"

"That sounds really great." Skye smirked before jumping for joy. "Will there be Cherry Pie, Strawberry short cake with some coconut frosting on it, including some nachos?"

"Any food you can possible imagine!" Pinkie grinned.

"I'm in! You definitely deserved to rank up to being Sergeant Pinkie Pie!" Skye chuckled.

"But wait, isn't that one rank higher than my current rank you gave to me?" I questioned with a raised brow. 

"Shut up! Don't question what I got to say!" Skye huffed before using her remote controlled helicopter to get in front of me with its mini-guns coming out from the sides. "Or else you'll suffer the wrath of me! General Skye Jones!"

"R-Right...sorry..." I apologized, sweat-dropping in the process. Wow, this girl is...pretty cool, dynamic, and yet dangerous. I better be careful not to get into her bad side.

"Welp, we'll definitely show you around Ponyville as much as we can!" Kaede smiled.

"Indeed. Of course this is my last month to be spending with you all, so I'll be sure to make it spectular with you all." Mason chuckled.

"Yeah! Come on! Let's party!" Carrie cheered, which made everypony in the theaters, excluding Rantaro and Nicole, to yell out. Although, those two had soft smiles on their faces. 

You know, to think we finally reached to the final human to arrive here on Equestria. All nine of us are here together. Me, Mason, Carrie, Kaede, Jamie, Rantaro, Jack, Nicole, and now Skye. The nine of us are the nine humans here in Equestria.

Though, there are some mysteries like this Dusk-7 Virus, Project Ark, and that weird computer message before we left to get here to the Mall District. While there are still some mysteries left to solve, but I'm sure we'll be able to figure this all out. I know whatever's happening on Earth...it'll be fixed soon. I just know that...




Later
"Come on...push harder...!" 

Right after we dealt with the Pinkies, we headed over to the Everfree Forest. Jack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Mason, and Applejack were pushing down a large boulder, blocking the path to the Mirror Pool. 

"Nice job, you guys! This time for sure that nopony will ever cause trouble with the Mirror Pool!" Twilight smiled.

"Ha...tell me about it..." Jack laughed before feeling his stomach growled. "Great...I forgot to eat something for lunch today..."

"In that case, how about we celebrate?!" Pinkie exclaimed with an excited smile. "This calls for a celebration! 'Welcome To Ponyville' party at the Mall District!"

"In that case, how about I cook?" Mason offered.

"No way! This is your last month before you leave, big brother! Enjoy the party with us!" Carrie exclaimed with a serious look. 

"She's right! Have some fun for once, Mason!" Kaede agreed.

"Right Private Mason! It's time for Operation: W.T.P.P is on the go!" Skye grinned excitedly.

"'W.T.T.P'?" I asked in confusion.

"'Welcome To Ponyville Party'. Now let's go and have fun!" Skye exclaimed happily. "And Sergeant Pinkie Pie, give out every last food you got!"

"With pleasure!" Pinkie saluted before hugging Skye. "Now come on! Let's go and enjoy the party!"

"Yeah! I'm with ya Sergeant Pinkie! I can already tell we're gonna be the greatest of allies!" Skye smiled.

"More like the greatest of best friends!" Pinkie smiled.

"Friends?" Skye asked, blinking in surprise.

"Duh! 'Cause we're friends, Skye!" Pinkie chuckled, Skye stared at her for a while before smiling happily. 

"Yeah! Friends it is, Sergeant Pinkie!" Skye laughed. 

"Hey, where did Nicole and Rantaro go?" Rarity wondered.

"Probably left." I answered, looking around for them. "I get Nicole since she said that she isn't a fan of being with large crowds and Rantaro just doesn't want to be around us."

"It's best if we left them around for a while." Twilight shrugged with a soft smile. "Maybe while we're partying, they'll likely to join."

"Yeah, same here." I chuckled in agreement. 

"Well shall we?" Rarity offered.

"Yeah!" Jack shouted. "Now come on, you bastards! Let's go!"

With that, the gang all headed out of the forest and headed back to the home-ship while me and Kodiak stayed behind.

"Huh...so nine humans." Kodi muttered. "Wow...the gang's getting all big."

"Mm-hmm." I nodded in agreement before looking back at the blocked entrance of the Mirror Pool. "Hmm...I wished I could at least remember as much as possible about how we got here."

"Don't worry, you'll remember soon." Kodi reassured. "Now come on! Let's go meet up with the others!"

"Mm." I nodded as Kodi ran off ahead to catch up with the gang. 

You know, while we're still here in this world, I wonder if we somehow traveled from Earth to Equestria. Equestria is likely the new world described much on Project Ark...so maybe...it's possible that we were send here. Yeah, that must be it...

Although...that Mirror Pool...I am curious about it. Maybe...Well I guess it wouldn't be some trouble if I just see the Mirror Pool as long as I don't chant that enchanted chant Pinkie told us. I turned over to the large boulder and let out a heavy sigh, realizing how this would be tough to climb it, but it's worth a shot. I quickly ran and began attempting to climb over it. 

Man, did those guys really find a good boulder to climb over. After several tries, I finally managed to climb up to the top of the boulder before leaping over it and walked across the jagged narrow path straight down to find a shiny circular pool.

"Whoa..." So this is the Mirror Pool that Pinkie talked about that gave her that special power to duplicate herself. Gotta say that it looks pretty....

I walked over to the Mirror Pool and stared at my reflection. 

This reflection of mine...it looks exactly like me. I can hardly believe that something like this can make anyone's reflection jump out and become a clone. 

I stared into my reflection, seeing my own cheeks. My own cheeks had cutie-marks on them with Fluttershy's cutie-marks embedded on them. I'm not sure...but I feel like I'm connected to this. 

Thinking about everything that I've been through...learning much more what's been happening on Earth. Dusk-7 Virus...nine survivors....Project Ark...even what's been happening on earth due to these meteorites...this is all too crazy to comprehend. 

I want to go back home to check up on my family....My sister Lillie, my brother Dan, my mom and my dad. I really wish that I could check it up...

"It's such a shame, really." Huh? Ah! I quickly gotten up and looked around before noticing something off about my shadow. I looked over it and saw that it was getting bigger before something popped right out it, revealing to be...

"Void..." I muttered, widening my eyes a bit. 

"Good time to meet again, Ren Loodan." Void chuckled, crossing his arms. "So...we finally meet again. Guess it wasn't too soon since the battle of the Crystal Empire."

"Void...what are you doing here?" I asked with a slightly brave look, but inside I was feeling really scared. 

"No need to hide your fears. I can easily see through you. Common for humans." Void sighed. "You foolish humans think that hope is always at the horizon, thinking that it can lead you to happiness....Well get this, it wouldn't. It would only lead you to your ends."

"What?" I asked in confusion.

"I only came here to see you." Void snickered darkly. "You peeked my interest along with your friends. You managed to retrieve your power of using healing magic."

"Healing magic?" I asked in confusion. "So wait...like Jamie by using levitating spells and such, you're saying that I have healing magic?"

"Indeed." Void nodded. "You finally managed to gain it back after losing it all this time."

"What? What do you mean?" I questioned before realizing what he means. "Are you saying...that I had this before? But how?! I mean, that's slightly possible for a regular human like me!"

"Hmph....Of course you wouldn't understand. That's the point of why humanity and ponies are so alike...They refused to acknowledge to even understand or believe in others. That's why you peeked my interest...Because you see hope as a good thing, and so do I."

"Huh? What do you mean?" I asked in confusion. 

"I mean that you have a firm believe in hope. You believe in hope and keep going...I sensed a powerful shining hope in you...and I believe in hope too...But how we see hope is different. You see it that people can work together...I believe in the opposite...but having nothing in life exist." Void explained.

"What?" I asked in confusion. "H-Hold on...are you saying that...that people shouldn't exist?"

"It's the way of life...and that's what I'm planning to do." Void smirked. "If nothing exists, then that way, hope can finally be achieved. Humankind, ponies, and other living things must not exist in order to keep the world safe. Thanks to them, the world is already in ruins thanks to them."

"Huh?!" I asked in shock before exclaiming "But you're crazy! Not everyone is evil if you're claiming that! We all believe in each other and work together in order to achieve things!"

"Indeed...but why can't everyone?" Void asked. "It's simple...why everyone needs to die. Once so, the Great Fall can reappear and we can end the world..."

"If that's what you're planning, then you're crazy!" I exclaimed. "You're going to kill innocent lives!"

"Hm?" Void stared at me in confusion as I continued to ramble on.

"Look, I'm not too sure about this Great Fall or anything you're going on, but you can't end the world because everyone around the world can't see hope that good! Not everyone is evil and while there are difficult people to get along, I know that they're just having trouble. I may not know what you are, but I know that you believe in hope in your way, but what you're doing to achieve hope is wrong. Just please stop and just let me help you...Don't do this Void."

At that moment, I stopped to myself and realized what I just said. Whoa...did I said all that? Gosh...that's a little embarrassing. I don't know why, but I think that Void is just...misunderstanding what hope really means. 

"Tch, shut up, shut up, shut up!" Void yelled, his mask turning darker with his pupils shrinking in sheer anger and frustration as I see through his mask's visor. "You're sounding like her! Don't speak like you're gonna believe in humanity or any kind! You're nothing more than a human who stole my powers! The Elements of Harmony are mine to control, not you, not hers, not anyone! You're talking that little brat who can't do anything!"

"What? Who are you...talking about?" I asked in confusion.

"...Tch, I owe you no explanation. Talking like you seemed to know so better than me!" Void scoffed. "You're just a stupid little human who is practically useless with that stupid gun."

I glanced down at the Hacking Gun hanging on my side pockets, causing me to frown. He's right about that...if I ever lost this gun, I would practically be useless...but even so, I wouldn't give up that easily. I know that we can talk this out.

"But...you certainly have a lot of faith in the magic of Friendship and Hope. Just like that nuisance..." Void muttered. "But no matter, once I reclaimed the Elements and find more shards, then the Great Fall will begin again."

"You keep mentioning the Great Fall, but what is that?" I asked.

"You'll learn soon enough...or if your memories ever come back. Heh heh, once so...you'll be wishing to die." What? What does he mean? Why would we ever think like that? "Oh yeah...one more thing, heh heh, I hope you enjoy soon learning much about that damn foundation...I hope you learn who's at fault here..."

"What?" I asked in confusion.

"Oh well...I will bring no harm to you...but soon..." Void walked over to the Mirror Pool and looked down at his reflection. "All of life shall end...then...I can finally achieve true hope...this time, for sure nothing can live. Not you or your friends, not the princesses, not even her. For now...I wish you goodbye...farewell Ren Loodan...I hope that we have the chance to meet again soon..."

With that, Void disappeared in an instant through some dark energy swirling around him. I simply stood there, trying to comprehend everything that I just witnessed before me. What the heck was that all about? The Great Fall...Void...ending all of life...this is all too crazy...

Although...who is this 'her' he keeps mentioning? Plus...that 'damn foundation'...Is he talking about this Connelly Foundation? Hmm...Connelly....why does that ring a bell?

"...Oh well, it's better not to think too much about it. I should probably head back and party with the others." I sighed before looking back at my reflection. "After all...I know that we can find our way back home, and hopefully that everyone that we know is alright...I know that."

I have to keep believing...I know I can. 

"I guess I should head back..." I quickly took my leave and managed to reclimb over the boulder and made it out of there before running back to the home-ship. I'm not too sure what Void is up to...but I know one thing...

I have to make sure that this Great Fall must never happen! We will find our way back home in no time!

To Be Continued
> Chapter 65 - One Bad Apple!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So are we're gonna meet them at the train station big brother?"

"Of course Carrie, it was a promise we made to them." 

Mm....Okay! I can't wait to meet her!

Oh, it's been a while, hasn't it? Me and my big brother are heading to the Ponyville Train Station to meet up with my friends and Applejack because they're picking up Apple Bloom and Applejack's cousing. Apple Bloom told me the other day at school and she said that this weekend is when the Summer Harvest Day Parade!

I remember something we did back home with my adoptive big sis, Elena! We used to hold a Harvest Day Festival every Fall season to celebrate new harvests of fruits and vegetables that grows in the garden. Hee hee, I remember how much she and big brother always dances around during the music while I clapped for them. 

Ha ha, I wonder if big brother and Rarity would do that later this week during the festival.

"So are we there yet, Private Mason?!" Oh yeah, we brought Sky with us to show her around Ponyville and teach her much about Equestria. She's been itching to come outside, even using her helicopter to nearly blow Ren and the others to get them to take her outside to see the rest of Ponyville lately.

"We are almost there, Skye. Please be patient." Big brother stated with a stern look. "Trust me, we are almost there to the train station."

"Good report back, Private." Skye huffed before turning to me. "So anyway, Private Carrie, tell me...these friends of yours, are they really worthy?"

"Mm-hmm, they're really nice." I hummed with a soft smile on my face. "Once you get to know them, you'll see how friendly they are."

"Hmm...Okay then!" Skye grinned. "Keep on leading me to your friends!"

"Okay!" I giggled before we finally arrived to the place, finding Applejack and the rest of the Cutie Mark Crusaders standing on the boarding sessions of the train station while waiting for the guest to arrive.

"Hi girls!" I greeted with a soft smile.

"Carrie!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders cheered, happy to see me finally here. Scootaloo smirked before saying "Heh heh, glad you could make it! What took ya so long?!"

"We had a bit of trouble, mainly with our new guest." Big brother sighed, glancing at Skye sternly.

"Hey wait! I was just giving ya motivation to take me with ya!" Skye whined.

"So you're Skye?" Sweetie Belle asked curiously. 

"She looks pretty taller than Carrie by a bit." Scootaloo commented.

"Heh heh heh, thanks." Skye giggled. 

"Yeah, and I think she'll be very helpful with our club!" I added with a soft smile.

"I have a feeling that I don't wanna know what that's all about." Applejack rolled her eyes before smiling down at me. "So Carrie, you excited to meet Babs Seeds?"

"Babs Seeds? Oh, is that her name?" I asked curiously, which Applejack nodded. "Then yeah! Hee hee, I can't wait to meet her!"

"Plus, she'll get the chance to see humans for the first time!" Apple Bloom added. "We're all gonna go on many crusading for Cutie-Marks!"

"And show her around Ponyville!" Sweetie Belle grinned excitedly.

"And best of all, take her to the Harvest Day Parade!" Scootaloo smiled.

"Yeah!" I cheered, jumping for joy.

"Please don't make too much noises." Applejack pleaded, but we didn't hear her before we started jumping around and started laughing.

"Wow, you guys sure are enjoying this a lot, aren't ya?" Skye asked with a smile. "Gotta say Private Carrie, you sure are excited!"

"Hee hee hee, I really want to meet Apple Bloom's cousin!" I giggled.

Who wouldn't want to be? It'll be awesome to learn much more about Applejack and Apple Bloom and the rest of the Apple Family!

"Do you really think she'll wanna join?" Scootaloo asked Apple Bloom curiously.

"She doesn't have her Cutie Mark. Of course she'll wanna join the Cutie Mark Crusaders!" Apple Bloom smiled. "And also Skye? I think maybe she'll make a nice edition to the club despite being older than us...I think."

"Damn straight!" Skye smirked before leaning over to me and whispered "What is it that you guys do again? You know because I forgot?"

I gave Skye a raised brow before chuckling. Skye's pretty forgetful and is kinda childlike, isn't she? 

I decided not to answer her question before hearing the other girls hopping around in excitement.

"I'm just so excited I could burst!" Sweetie Belle added, smiling brightly.

"Really?! She has no Cutie-Mark?!" I asked in surprise before smiling happily. "That's amazing! I can't wait to meet her! Ha ha, we'll show her around Ponyville as best friends!"

"I have a feeling that you will." Big brother chuckled before turning to Applejack and asked, "So Applejack, where is she coming from?"

"Oh, just from my Uncle and Aunt Orange from Manehattan." Applejack answered with a soft smile. "It's very important for her to be there, you know."

"Huh...I see." Big brother smiled.

"I know. Plus, I'm sure she'll gladly like us showing her around town!" I laughed before we heard a loud train whistle, prompting us all to look back and saw the incoming train making its way.

"Is that the train from Manehattan?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Yep." Applejack nodded as the train makes an abrupt stop before opening the doors, letting out its passengers.

Hmm...who could Babs Seed be? Hmm...she could be anypony.

"That's her! Oh, wait, no, no, that's not her!" Apple Bloom exclaimed, pointing to a random pony carrying a basket that was exiting out of the train. "Oh! No, tha-tha-that's her! Um, no."

She saw the conductor looking through his stopwatch, much to her disappointment.

"Oh, wait, tha-"

"Apple Bloom, you've never met Babs Seed, remember?" Applejack reminded her with a raised brow.

"Oh..." Apple Bloom chuckled nervously. "Yeah."

"Don't worry, I'm sure we'll see soon." I smiled assuredly.

"Well where is she?! She couldn't have gone that far!" Skye whined, crossing her arms till we saw another door opening.

"AH, that's her!" Applejack grinned as we saw a filly, probably at the same age as Apple Bloom, walks out of the train. Her eyes were green, her mane was light pink, and her coat was brown. She even had freckles on each side of her cheeks and she didn't have a Cutie Mark!

She looked like she really is related to Applejack and Apple Bloom!

She walks out of the train with a nervous smile on her face till Apple Bloom and Skye runs over to her face.

"Babs! Babs! It's me, your cousin, Apple Bloom!" Apple Bloom greeted excitedly before the rest of us showed up. "And this is Sweetie Belle, and this is Scootaloo, and these are our human friends, Carrie and Skye! We are so, so, so, you're here!"

"Hi Babs! I'm Carrie!" I greeted, offering her a hoof. "And this is my new friend, Skye."

"The honor is mine, Private Babs! Refer to me as General Skye Jones." Skye grinned, adjusting her hat.

Babs Seed blinks at the two of us, probably surprised to encounter our species for the first time, but offered a soft smile at us.

"Thanks, I'm happy to-"

"This is gonna be the best week of your life!" Sweetie Belle shouted, cutting Babs Seed from what she was trying to say.

"Sure hope it's gonna be-"

"Seriously, we are gonna have a blast!" Scootaloo shouted.

"Girls, girls, calm down." Big brother called for us, walking over along with Applejack.

"Yes big brother." I nodded.

"Big...brother?" Babs Seed asked curiously, seeing how tall my brother was.

"Yep! This is my big brother, Mason." I nodded with a smile.

"Private Mason shows potential and I would gladly show it that he makes effort to become a Private First Class or better yet, a corporeal like Corporeal Loodan." Skye smirked. "But nonetheless, he's a good soldier of a friend!"

"O-Oh...Um...thank you." Big brother smiled softly. "But anyway, you must be Babs Seed. Applejack told me about some about you, and it is nice to make your acquaintance."

"O-Oh...thank you, mister." Babs Seed smiled nervously.

Mm...she looks pretty shy. But I'm sure we can help her out! 

"Please, allow me to carry those." Big brother picked up the suitcase while Applejack picked up the other one as we began leaving the train station while we crowded around Babs Seed.

"The Summer Harvest Parade's going on while you're here! You'll get to ride in a float!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed.

"Really? I've never been on a float before." Babs Seed stated.

"Yeah and it'll be amazing!" I cheered with a soft smile. "You'll be happy to get to know us a lot, Babs Seed."

"I never seen a float before, but trust me when I say that you're gonna be amazed! Even I never seen such a design like that before!" Skye added with a hopeful smile.

"And we've got a really big surprise for you!" Apple Bloom smiled.

"Yeah...uh...a surprise?" Babs Seed asked confusedly before her eyes were covered by Scootaloo. Applejack and big brother Mason looked at each other and shook their heads with happy smiles on their faces.

"Don't worry! You're gonna love it!" I assured.

"I'm sure she would." Big brother smiled softly. "Remember Carrie, play nice."

"We will!" We all cheered.

Hm? I noticed Babs Seed was shifting nervously, earning a frown from my face. I wonder why she's acting like that. Why is it that there's something off about her?


My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria






Skye's POV

Heh, I never thought that I would be here in this little place. I gotta say, they know how to make an awesome base, right?

These girls took me to this little clubhouse that they called their 'Cutie Mark Crusaders Clubhouse'. Hmm...how neat it is. Now that add some technology like super computers, radars, and scanners, then we're all set.

"Okay, we're all ready now!" Private Apple Bloom called.

"You heard her! Uncovered her retinas, Private Scootaloo!" I called out, much to Scootaloo's confusion on what I meant. "You know? Her...eyes?"

"Oh...right." Scootaloo nodded before uncovering the new private's eyes. She looks around and grew surprised and showed fear at the same time of her surroundings.

"I give you...The Cutie Mark Crusaders Clubhouse!" Apple Bloom exclaimed, raising her hoof upon presenting our location.

"The Cutie Mark Crusaders?" Babs Seed asked in confusion, not familiar with that name.

"A club devoted to helping ponies get their cutie marks!" Scootaloo explained before making a cocky smile. "We're its founding members while Skye here is just new. So technically, you and Skye could be new members to our clubs!"

"Thanks! The honor is mine!" I smirked before taking out my remote control and began messing with the controls, allowing my toy helicopter to fly into the scene. 

"Whoa..." Everyone in the room gasped and stared at in awe.

"Is that what you call a 'helicopter'?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"It looks pretty rad!" Scootaloo grinned. "Hey wait, how are you doing that Skye?"

"It's one of my inventions that I happened to made! Like it?" I chuckled.

"Inventions? You mean that you made it?" Apple Bloom asked in confusion. 

"Mm-hmm..." I nodded.

"Whoa..." The four fillies all gaped in shock and amazement.

"No way...does that count if she has talent?" Sweetie Belle asked Apple Bloom, who just shrugged before replying "Well...she may seemed to be good with tech, but maybe it counts that she's got a Cutie-Mark."

"Except that she doesn't." Scootaloo reminded, giving her a frown.

"Come on, does it really matter? I mean, Skye's a really good friend." Carrie spoken.

What's up with them? I mean, they aren't planning on kicking me out, right?! Only I do the kicking straight up in their butts if they ever disrespect me!

"I know, but should we let someone in just because they already have talent?" Sweetie Belle wondered.

"Yeah, and she's supposed to be older than us, even Carrie." Scootaloo added.

"Girls, girls..." Apple Bloom called, trying to calm them down. "Right now, we should just discuss this another time to think about if Skye should really join in despite her being older than us and can make those dohickeys."

"What was that?!" I pouted, pushing some buttons to activate the weapons till Carrie stopped me.

"Skye wait, they didn't mean it!" Carrie exclaimed before making an awkward smile. "Trust me, we're just...working things right, that I promise. They'll warm up to ya and you'll see how we do it here as the Cutie Mark Crusaders!"

"Hm...Okay." I frowned, calming myself down and stop from activating the weapons. "But they're lucky that they didn't blasted by my awesome helicopter bombs."

"Uh...did she say bombs?" Babs Seed asked nervously.

"Just ignore her, probably just a joke." Apple Bloom waved it off.

"Oh...Okay...um..." Babs Seed soon turned to us with a surprised look. "So...are you two girls...part of a special creatures that help saved Equestria from the monsters that attacked Canterlot and saved the Crystal Empire?"

"Huh? Um...what?" I asked in confusion. "Crystal what?"

"Oh right, you weren't there Skye!" Carrie said, realizing that I haven't woken up for either of those events. "You see! We saved Equestria like I think maybe, four times...with Ren saving it when he first woken up here by defeating Nightmare Moon, and us saving it from Discord, and then with the Changelings, and even saved the entire Crystal Empire from the monster dark unicorn monsters called the Umbrums and King Sombra, who turned into a good pony!"

"Whoa whoa whoa, slow down! I can't comprehend on everything you're telling me! Slow down!" I exclaimed in shock.

"Oh, sorry." Carrie apologized with a sheepish grin.

Jeez, what have these guys been doing while I wasn't around?! Holy cow, I've missed out a lot! Jeez!

"Yeah, and maybe you could experience more whether or not you're up for it." Scootaloo spoke.

"Huh, I'm always ready." I smirked, adjusting my hat with an excited look on my face. "Just say the word private, and I'll be glad to fight on!"

"Right..." Scootaloo sweat-dropped.

"That's right." I smirked. "And while I may have been here for just a few days, I'm starting to like it here. This place has everything that I need, including enjoying Sergeant Pinkie Pie's party. 

"Wait, you arrived here in a few days? How?" Babs Seed asked curiously. 

"Woke up in a pod, pretty sweet right?" I joked, only to see a confused look on her face. "What? I'm serious. Besides, I'm pretty skilled with my tech, watch."

I gaze down at my remote controller and activate the microphone altering button.   

"Now listen up Babs Seed! I welcome you to the Cutie Mark Crusaders' Clubhouse! These girls right here are the founding members of this joint!" I said, speaking through the small microphone. 

"W-Whoa...!" Babs Seed widened her eyes, frightened to hear my voice through it.

"Cool!" Scootaloo grinned.

"I know right?" Carrie smiled, barely fazed by the loud voice. She then turned to Babs Seed and said "Well anyway, we're a club devoted to search out how good we are with talents and the girls are the founding members while I joined in when we started hanging out."

"Technically, we're its only members." Sweetie Belle stated. "And plus, Carrie is kinda not a founding member considering that she wasn't there when we all first met, remember?"

"It's okay, either way, I'm glad to meet you here." Carrie greeted, offering a hand to Babs Seed.

"Um...yeah." Babs Seed smiled timidly before shaking it and looked at Carrie's hand. "Wow...it feels pretty warm and those things on your...thing, is...cool."

"Um, thank you." Carrie smiled softly.

"And plus, as I was saying..." Apple Bloom spoken up, cutting me and Carrie off as she wanted to say more to her cuz. "We're always looking to expand, and you seem like the perfect candidate!"

"I do?" Babs Seed asked in confusion.

"Well, yeah, since you don't have a Cutie-Marks and all." Scootaloo stated.

Babs Seed widened her eyes before quickly covering her flank with her tail.

"Oh, yeah...That..." Hmm....what's up with that? Why she hesitate? Hmm...guess she's afraid of not having that weird tattoo on these ponies' butts that they call 'Cutie-Marks'. Besides, why's that a problem to not have a talent? 

"What's wrong?" Carrie asked, walking over to her but Babs Seed backed away a bit and responded, "N-Nothing...just...nothing at all, Carrie..."

Hmm...she's afraid to admit that she doesn't have one. Strange...Oh well, probably nothing but to get to smile.

"Allow me to show you just some of the highlights of our clubhouse, should you choose to join us." Apple Bloom smiled before turning to us. We didn't seem to do anything at all, which seemed to irritate her a bit before pointing her hoof over to some of the stuff we wanted to present to her cousin.

You're lucky Carrie politely told me to not activate the weapons control on my remote.

"This is where we do our role call..." Apple Bloom points over to a piece of paper on the wall with face portraits of the current members of this club. Scootaloo held a pencil in her mouth before demonstrating by writing in the last check for Sweetie Belle with the white pony grinning at Babs Seed.

"This is where we eat our lunch..."

Next up was Carrie pouring some imaginary water into the glass cups for both Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, who both licked their lips.

"Sometimes we stand here and think of great ideas." Apple Bloom points over to a little red and white target spot, where Sweetie Belle sat on it before rubbing her chin and went into deep thought before smiling brightly at something she came up with with Scootaloo using the lantern over her head.

Ha ha ha, they seriously come up with that joke?!

"Yeah, uh..." Babs Seed looks at us, feeling more uncomfortable than usual.

The other Crusaders and I soon took noticed of this before we each frowned before Apple Bloom spoke to her cuz.

"Uh, could you excuse us for a moment?"

"Sure..." Babs Seed nodded, covering her flank with her tail.

Hmm...Something is definitely up.

The girls soon hurdle over as I walked over and listened in on their conversation.

"Thought she'd be more impressed." Apple Bloom frowned.

"She's from Manehattan. If we wanna impress her, we need to really wow her!" Sweetie Bell stated.

"Hmmm..." The four girls hummed in thought, wondering what to do.

"Oh!" Carrie let out an 'oh' look on her face before making a smile. "Why not we show her the float?"

"The float! She can ride with us on our Summer Harvest Parade float!" Scootaloo smiled brightly at the idea.

"That's perfect! This is really is a good spot for thinking up great ideas." Apple Bloom looks down at the target spot they were all standing on.

"That's something that you would use for target practice and I would know for many practice targets I've down with my helicopter." I chuckled, moving around my helicopter.

"What are you girls talking about?" Babs Seed asked, raising a brow at them.

The girls and I soon turned around with massive smiles on our faces.

"Well something that'll amaze you! Come on!" Apple Bloom cheered, pushing Babs Seed out of the treehouse while it startled her with the other girls heading. Hmm...I am curious more about their float, and what does it look like. So let's check it out!





Later

I couldn't believe it. These girls made this? Holy cow, this looks amazing...! 

The Cutie Mark Crusaders led me and Babs Seed into the barn before we all gawked at the sight of their attraction. It was a giant pumpkin with wheels and a door, so obviously a float!

I can practically built something like that! But...good job! Very good art work in it!

"Here it is! The official Cutie Mark Crusaders float for the Summer Harvest Parade!" Apple Bloom exclaimed.

"As two members of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, you'd be able to on it with us!" Scootaloo exclaimed, flapping her little wings excitedly. "It'd be totally fun."

"Yeah!" Carrie nodded before making her way to me. "And you'll love it as well Skye! Do you always wanna be in the parade?"

"Mm? Me? Well..." I rubbed the back of my head before smiling. "Ah what the heck? Been my dream to ride a float. It beats than flying a blimp."

"You flew a blimp?!" Sweetie Belle jaw-dropped in shock before smiling brightly. "Wow...!"

"Just how cool can you get?!" Scootaloo asked.

"Does someone who's have several letters of invite for college answer your questions?" I joked.

No seriously! It happened! That's what happens when you become a famous child like me!

"Wow...you're pretty cool Skye..." Babs Seed smiled happily.

"Thanks Babs Seed! I can teach you the many ways of being a kid genius!" I laughed before walking over to the float. "But man, riding a float will be tons of fun! Ya dig?!"

"Hmm...yeah..." Babs Seed nodded, making a small shy smile. 

Hmm...You know, for her to be uncomfortable like that, there might be one answer to that. Although, I hope I'm wrong.

"More like funny..." Hm? Who the hell was that? 

"...Looking!" That's when I took notice of two other fillies entering the barn, sneering at Carrie and the other filly girls, which they glared back at the two obnoxious looking ponies.

"What is that thing, a giant orange?" The silver pony smirked, sneering at the float. The two ponies continued to laugh more before I crossed my arms with a serious look.

"Hey! Shut up you two! Pick on someone your own size!" I frowned, earning their attention.

"Oh? What's this? Another hairless freak? You related to Carrie over there?" The diamond tiara pony laughed, igniting my anger as I grabbed my remote and activate my helicopter to come over! Time to terminate these two!

"Skye, no!" Carrie rushed over and shook her head. "Just ignore them and don't listen what they say!"

"Hmph, fine! I got my eye on them!" I pouted, glaring towards the two ponies.

It doesn't take a genius that these two are just bullies, a child's Number#1 enemy.

"And it's not an orange, it's a pumpkin." Apple Bloom stated blankly.

"More like a lame-kin." The diamond tiara pony rolled her eyes while her friend laughed alongside her. "So...who are the new blank flanks?"

I raised a brow, confused by her name but I knew that it was insulting. Babs Seed widened her eyes before covering her flank with widened eyes. Oh no, I've seen this before...She's feeling scared...

Ah...Wait...those eyes...I would recognize this kind of thing before...

"She's my cousin, Babs. She's from Manehattan!" Apple Bloom exclaimed, glaring back at the two.

"Yeah! And this is our new friend, Skye!" Carrie added, standing up for me while I smiled softly before blowing a raspberry at the two. I wish I can target these enemies, but I have no choice but to remain still.

"Manehattan, huh? And another new freak to add to your group?" The diamond tiara pony grinned mockingly. "Well, I guess you have that going for you two."

"What do you...mean?" I questioned. 

"We mean what we mean." The silver pony stated. "Suppose you're gonna join their little club? What's it called?"

The two ponies makes sneering looks at Carrie and co. and exclaimed "The Cutie Mark Crusaders?"

"Pfft, of course." I stuck my tongue out. "I rather be with nice people other than old hags like you."

"O-Old hags?!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed.

"That's right, I said it." I grinned, much to the girls' awe.

"Thanks Skye!" Sweetie Belle praised.

"Yeah! You showed them!" Scootaloo laughed.

"Nice on Skye!" Carrie complimented happily.

Ha ha, all in the day's work for this gal.

"Pfft! More like the Cutie Mark Crybabies!" Huh? We all turned over to Babs Seed, who was laughing at us. We all just stood there with shocked looks while Apple Bloom glared at us and shouted, "Hey!"

"Oooo, heh, big city attitude! I like it!" The diamond tiara pony grinned, walking over to Babs.

"Mm-hmm!" The silver pony nodded in agreement, joining her too.

"Oh, yeah? Well there's more where that came from! Check this out!" Babs grinned viciously before walking over to the float. Wait, what is she-

WHACK!

...That little-

"Oh no, she didn't!" Scootaloo exclaimed.

We all watched as Babs kicked the wheel and broke it apart, it started creaking till the pumpkin float began wiggling and began rolling out of the farm, bouncing up and down till...

CRASH!

...No...it's gone....all of it...

I stood there in shock before looking over at Babs and the other two ponies, who just started laughing. Babs hesitated at first before she began laughing as well. She just...double-crossed us...?

"Looks like somepony's pumpkin just got squashed!" Babs grinned mockingly at us.

"B-Babs...Why?" Carrie asked, looking at her in shock before sniffling. "That float...we worked on it for the Summer Harvest this week..."

"Heh, maybe you should have thought when messing with me." Babs huffed while I just looked at her in shock. 

This....this whole scenario...they're now going through it...aren't they?

Apple Bloom glares at Babs Seed and began threatening her. However...

"When I tell Applejack-"

"You gonna tell Applejack what?" Babs narrowed her eyes at her.

"W-well, you know, uh..." No no, please...don't.

"What're you, a snitch?" Babs smirked evilly at her, earning shocked looks from the girls while I stood there, gripping on my remote control with an angry look.

This right here...this is all coming back to me...I would...know this...

"Come on, Babs, you should hang with us! You know, the cool ponies, not these babies and freaks!" The diamond tiara pony suggested.

Babs didn't seem too reluctant on her answer and just nodded before she began walking out of the barn with the two bullies, laughing.

We just stood there, blinking in shock while I stood there with a surprised and slightly upset look. Why didn't I do anything? I should have blasted them with my range fire, but...I couldn't...

"What...just happened?" Apple Bloom asked us, looking at us with a worried look.

"I think Babs just went to the dark side." Scootaloo answered irritably.

"We have to tell Applejack!" Sweetie Belle suggested.

"Yeah, and big brother too!" Carrie added. 

"NO!" The two girls exclaimed, much to their surprise.

"Why...?" Carrie asked.

"Because we are not snitches!" Apple Bloom answered.

"Yeah! And we're not babies!" Scootaloo agreed.

"Then...why do I feel like crying?" Sweetie Belle sniffled.

This is just too hard to handle....These girls.....Ngh...

"It's okay Sweetie Belle, I'm sure we can solve this." Carrie frowned. 

"...What's wrong with being snitches?" I questioned, earning the rest of the girls' confused looks. "So what if she said it? We just gonna run away from something simple like that?"

"You don't get it Skye. She called us babies!" Scootaloo exclaimed. 

"I do get it Private Scootaloo and as the general, we are telling Private Applejack and Private Mason about this!" I exclaimed, stomping my foot on the ground. "It's better than concealing it ourselves! You're just gonna keep going through this until you're gonna regret this and then you'll..."

...I can't. Why can't I say it? I just...I just need to tell them...or else they might end up taking this whole thing into heart and then...die...

"You'll what?" Carrie asked. "S-Skye, what's wrong?"

"N-Nothing...just, you all need to tell the adults. Don't even try holding stuff like this back." I insisted. 

"Stuff like what?" Apple Bloom asked, raising a brow.

"...Trust me, please! It's okay to not do this! Come on!" I pleaded. "Stop acting like babies and-"

"What's going on here?!" Oh! Speak of the devil! Glad that he's here!

Private Mason Hunter finally shows up and races in with a surprised look.

"What's going on?! And...why is you girls float destroyed?!"

"B-Big brother...!" Carrie blinked in shock before frowning. "Y-You see, it's just that-"

"We accidentally gotten the wheel broken and it rolled off..." Apple Bloom lied, much to my shock.

What is she doing?! Why is she lying?! Stop! Stop it! Don't regret saying what you're saying! 

"Really...?" Mason questioned with a raised brow. "You girls ruined your own float by accident?"

"Yeah, we didn't pay attention..." Scootaloo nodded furiously with a smile. 

"But-" Sweetie Belle tried to speak up, but Scootaloo cut her off by saying, "Listen, we need to go!"

"Ah...But-" Carrie tried saying something, but Apple Bloom covered her mouth before smiling nervously at Mason and exclaimed "We need to head out and work on a way to rebuild our float! So enjoy your last month here in Ponyville, Mason!"

"Hey wait...!" Mason called, trying to gain the rest of the girls' attention before they all began running off, pushing Sweetie Belle and Carrie away in the process.

I stood there with a shocked look, unable to believe by what just happened. Why in the world would they do that?! This...this can't be...!

"Skye..." Mason turned to me with a raised brow. "Care to explain what is going on with them?"

"I'm not sure myself with what happened, but I'll go talk to them and then later, I'll tell you." I assured. "Now hold your horses Private Mason, this general needs to give a ten-four to my new pals."

"...Very well." Mason sighed before taking his leave. 

...Yeah...I just need to talk to them. 

I...I really need to tell them. If they get bullied, then...I'll be sure to put those bullies in their places...





Later
Carrie's POV

"I still can't believe she ruined our pumpkin float." Scootaloo huffed, crossing her hooves with an upset look. 

Me too...I don't get why she would do that. I mean, we were just getting along too and my friends were getting to know a bit with Skye.

"I still can't believe I'm related to such a big stinking bully!" Apple Bloom gritted her teeth, stomping her foot on the ground.

Sweetie Belle and I looked at each other before the former sighed and wondered aloud, "What are we gonna do?"

With a serious and determined look, Apple Bloom responded, "We're gonna build a new float, that's what."

"Why bother? She'll probably just ruin that one, too." Scootaloo interrupted, making Apple Bloom feel sad.

"Come on girls, it's not bad." I reassured with a soft smile. "I mean, at first she didn't look like she was a jerk."

"I'm sure she is." Apple Bloom pouted. "She called us crybabies and snitches and even destroyed our float that we worked so hard on!"

"We could always tell Applejack and Mason." Sweetie Belle offered.

Apple Bloom and Scootaloo all widened their eyes in shock before they began sweating nervously before shouting out, "No!"

"B-But...maybe they can help us." I offered, but Apple Bloom shook her head and replied "Carrie, we are not gonna be snitches!"

"But-"

"No! We aren't gonna tell!" Scootaloo huffed.

"Tell who?" 

Huh? Oh! That must be Skye! We each turned to the doorway and saw her toy helicopter flying into the room, pulling out its glove arms and began stretching its weird metallic mustache, almost like it was trying to be sly and cheeky...is that it?

"Skye, what are you talking about?" Scootaloo asked. 

"What I'm saying maggots is that you four need to tell the truth to the adults right now! It's okay to tell me, but you need to tell it to them!" Skye's helicopter exclaimed, pointing an accusatory finger at us.

Well...I really want to, but Apple Bloom and Scootaloo won't allow me or Sweetie Belle to.

"No!" Apple Bloom whined.

"We aren't!" Scootaloo shook her head. "And you're not the boss of us Skye!"

"Come on, it doesn't matter!" Sweetie Belle complained. "I think it's the right thing to do...!"

"We're not gonna be a bunch of tattle-tales! Besides, she's only here a couple of weeks. We'll just avoid her like the plague until she goes." Apple Bloom suggested.

"Avoid her." Scootaloo repeated. "Yeah, how hard can that be?"

"But...I still think we can tell our older siblings about this." Carrie suggested.

"No Carrie! We aren't!" Apple Bloom huffed. "The best way is just ignore what she's doing, that's all."

Mm...Why won't they listen? Only Sweetie Belle and Skye are the only ones listening to me.

"Does it matter, Private Apple Bloom?!" Huh? We turned back at Skye's helicopter, who was glaring harshly at her and Scootaloo while pointing an accusatory finger at them. "You two shouldn't keep secrets from the grownups you trust in your life! You need to tell them!"

"Why should we?!" Scootaloo exclaimed.

"I'm doing this for your own good, you maggots! Because if you don't...then you'll...you'll..." S-Skye? What's wrong? You sound sad...Did something happened to her? Maybe..

"...Are you okay?" Sweetie Belle asked in worried. 

"No! I am not! You all won't listen to me so now I'll teach ya all a lesson that you'll never forget!" Eek! She's gonna fire her toy guns!"

"Quick! Take cover!" I yelled before ducking under the table. The other three rose brows of confusion at me before seeing two mini machine guns coming out of the helicopter, making them slowly realize what was about to happen.

"AHHH!"

"WATCH OUT!"

"NOT THE EYE!"

The three ducked underneath the table, hearing more of the shooting sounds coming down at us. 

"You seriously brought over a girl who basically shoots her own friends?!" Scootaloo whined, glaring directly at me.

"She's a really nice friend once you get to know her. Trust me!" I reassured, sweat-dropping. 

"...You know what? I'm already bored with fighting you all...General Skye Jones out! Peace!" Huh? S-Skye! I quickly got out of the table and saw her helicopter flying away. 

"Skye wait!" I rushed over to the window, extending a hand out to reach out to her.

"I'll stop this! Then you all don't have to be like that!" 

Skye...I'm sorry. I really want to, but Apple Bloom and Scootaloo won't give me the chance to do so. But...I feel as though you've experienced something like this.

"Carrie...I'm sorry..." Sweetie Belle apologized, placing a hoof on my shoulder and gave me a sympathetic smile. "I understand why Skye would tell us that, but those two won't listen."

"I guess we'll just have to tell big brother and Applejack when we have the chance..." I sighed, looking down. 

But...I'm more worried than Skye herself...I wish I could help her...





Skye's POV

...I don't feel happy or adventurous as I used to be...Right now, I'm just struggling...I just wished that I can make them understand...but they're too stubborn! Well only Private Carrie and Private Sweetie Belle seemed to understand, but those other two fillies as they called them as Private Apple Bloom and Private Sweetie Belle won't open up and listen to what we got to say. I have to do something, I gotta save my comrades! That way...I won't fail like before...





I stood there...in front of a burial with everyone standing over next to me...My entire face was drenched in the sorrow and pain I felt...when she...had to die...I would never forgive bullies...I would never forgive them...never ever....

Amy...Why?





I gotta keep it all back with a smile. I know...Amy was my best friend before those jerks made her push over the edge. I need to be tough on them...so that's why I need to do something by telling her older brother and Applejack.

"Skye?" Hm? Oh it's about time! 

Mason soon walked across the fields, finding me sitting near the tree with a focused look on my face.

"What? How did you find me? Did you use your tracker on me, private?" I questioned in shock and awe.

"No, I saw you over here. It was really easy considering that I work here...at least, part -time." Mason scratched the back of his head. "After all, I got till a month to leave and the deadline is almost nearing..."

Oh right...Carrie told me something that he's heading somewhere to this academy to train as a soldier. Just like when my mom went to the Naval Academy in Maryland. Heh heh, this guy seems capable of being a valedictorian.

"So anyway, Skye, what are you doing with that controller?" Mason questioned before sighing "Oh my god, what did Jack and Rantaro do now?"

"Those two soldiers aren't my concerns, but it's about Carrie and the others! You gotta do something Mason!" I said, getting up from the couch before showing him my remote control and see-through monitor.

"What? What about Carrie and the other girls?" Mason asked, walking over and saw through the monitor.

In case you all missed out, I'm actually spying on them with my helicopter, keeping an eye out for Carrie and the rest of her friends from Babs Seed and those two other bullies. 

"What are you going on about...Huh?" Mason looks through the monitor on my remote control and sees Carrie and her friends getting bullied by Babs Seed and those other two ponies. I have it all recorded there on my monitor! 

"See? Look at that!" I exclaimed, pointing my finger into the monitor. "Carrie and her friends are being picked on by Babs Seed and those two snobby ponies! Allow me to exterminate them!"

"What? This is...Babs Seed?" Mason wondered, blinking in shock as he watches through the monitor as the Cutie Mark Crusaders were being chased out of the movie theaters with Babs Seed and the two bullies laughing at their misfortune.

"I told you! Babs Seed is a bad seed!" I exclaimed. "She's bullying your sister and her friends! You need to do something soldier! We need to prepare for battle to protect them!"

"Skye, calm down." Mason assured. "This is...This too unreal...Why would Babs do this? To mess with my sister and her friends?"

"I know what you mean! We need to punish her!" I exclaimed angrily.

"Skye, calm down." Mason sighed. "Listen, I need to discuss with Applejack. Something is clearly wrong."

"What's wrong?! This is proof!" I exclaimed, glaring at him. "I know that for sure that she's a bully!"

"Yes, but why? That I don't understand...Let me talk with Applejack, Skye." Mason reassured. "Right now, I think it's time to talk to her about what her cousin has been doing."

"About time! It's a good thing that you're here!" I grinned. "I tried having them tell you, but they just won't listen! Well...except Carrie and Sweetie Belle but those other two, Private Apple Bloom and Private Scootaloo wouldn't listen to me!"

"I would understand where you're going with this." Mason nodded. "Skye, would you mind go over to them and comfort my sister and her friends? For my sake?"

"Heh heh, don't worry...You can leave it to me! General Skye Jones is on the way!" I laughed, placing a hand on my chest. "I promise that I won't let them down and I'll be sure that Babs and those two other prissy brats gets what's coming to come!"

"Easy Skye, don't go too far with this. I understand that they're unforgivable on this moment, especially with what you're showing me about Babs Seed, but we need to stay calm about this." No can do! She's a bully! And like other bullies, she'll pay for this! 

"Well I'll tell you this that I ain't backing down from this! Now I gotta go!" I exclaimed before running off. "I'll be back and make sure that they'll get what's coming to them if my name isn't Skye Jones, best inventor in the world!"

"Skye wait!" 

Don't worry! You can leave it to me! I got this in the bag Private Mason!





Mason's POV

"Skye wait!"

Ugh, why must she be so stubborn? We've only gotten to know her for a few days and this what happens? Well it's nice to know that she's stubborn and playful while acting like a general to us all...

After Skye was gone with the remote in her hands, I headed back to the barn, luckily finding Applejack putting down a couple of bags filled with apples on the table.

"Applejack?" I called, knocking on the door.

"Hm? Oh heya Mason!" Applejack greeted with a soft smile. "You can come in."

I slowly opened the door and walked in with a rather stern and serious look on my face. 

"Just putting down a bunch of apples that I've collected down the fields." Applejack chuckled before noticing the look on my face. "Uh, you alright Mason?"

"Applejack, we got a problem." I sighed.

"What?" Applejack raised a brow. 

"It's about Babs Seed..." I explained, which seemed to shock Applejack as she exclaimed "Oh no! Did something happened to her?! If so, then we-"

"No no, it's not what's happening to her. It's what she's doing to my sister and the others." I clarified, confusing the farm pony.

"...What?" I figured...

I took a deep breath before I began to explain to her what happened.

"You see...Skye told me that she was picking on Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Carrie. They couldn't tell you for their own reasons, probably because they were afraid."

"Wait wait wait, you mean to tell me Babs Seed is doing this?!" Applejack exclaimed. 

"Yes. Skye has been spying on them." I explained, crossing my arms. "And she showed me proof that Babs Seed has been picking on them."

"You aren't lying there, but I would never expect her to actually be a bully." Applejack muttered. "That wasn't what Uncle and Aunt Orange told me..."

"What? What do you mean?" I questioned, raising a brow at her.

"You see...from what I was told, our cousin Babs was being bullied at Manehattan, because of her not having a Cutie-Mark." Applejack sighed, surprising me a bit. "I thought that bringing her here while getting along with Apple Bloom, your sister, and their friends, including that new girl Skye, would spark up a conversation with them...but if what you're saying is the truth....then I don't know..."

"Yeah..." I nodded.

Applejack is right...So could it be that since Babs Seed is getting bullied? Then...

"I understand now..." I muttered, crossing my arms. "So maybe Babs...must be stressed out and nervous by being bullied...that must be why she's hanging out with Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon."

"Must be...I mean, you ever heard of bullies hurting people because they're hurt and such?" Applejack asked me, which I nodded in agreement. I have heard of this issue, even Nicole can testify on how right it is. "Well...bullies have a thing out on ponies to avoid their everyday problems with their parents or if they're being troubled by something that they alone can't seem to handle...I'm betting my biscuits that must be why Babs Seed is acting up like that...I'm gonna have a talk with that little pony..."

"Wait...let me try talking to her." I offered.

"You? You sure Mason?" Applejack asked, raising a brow at me.

"I know...but I wish to at least talk to her about what's her problem so far." I nodded. "It's the least I can do...After all, I don't have that much time since I am moving out of town for a short while."

"Hmm..." Applejack rubbed her chin in thought, wondering what to do before softly smiling at me. "Alright then Mason, I trust you. I'll let ya handle this...just go easy on her. She is just a small filly."

"Don't worry, I promise that I will." I nodded before taking my leave out of the house. "And don't worry, I'll be sure to help the girls remake their parade float for the Summer Harvest by tomorrow."

"Alright, thank you so much!" Applejack called as I began heading out. Hmm...Now where would I go find those girls?





Skye's POV

Ugh, what is he doing right now? He better hurry up! 

Right after I took off, I began searching for my crew mates but so far...I haven't found them. Now...

Huh? Is that crying? Huh? It's..coming from inside the home-ship. Hmm...is it...? No, my new pals would never do that...but just in case....

I began walking inside of the house before seeing Sweetie Belle on the couch, her face on the pillow while she continue to sprout out tears.

"What in the who-now?" I asked, raising brows at the sight of this. "What the heck is going on here?!"

"Oh, hi Skye..." I quickly glanced at the sight of Carrie, who was wiping away a tear from her eyes. "S-Sorry...we're not in a good mood today."

"What's that? What did Babs Seed do to you guys now?" I questioned, narrowing my eyes.

"She...kicked us out of our clubhouse." Apple Bloom grunted, frowning.

"What?! She kicked you girls out of your own lair?!" I exclaimed in shock.

Unbelievable...Grrr...! Babs Seed has pulled the last straw on us!

"Yeah...so we came back to the home-ship while the others are busy off exploring around Ponyville or just hang out in the place..." Carrie frowned sadly. "So now...we're stuck on doing nothing to stop her."

"That Babs has really gone too far this time!" Apple Bloom exclaimed angrily, stomping her foot in the process.

"Kicked out of our own clubhouse!" Scootaloo huffed, walking back and forth in the living room.

"And my own bed!" Apple Bloom frowned.

"Seriously?!" I exclaimed, gritting my teeth. "Ooh, she's really asking for it!"

"Super-seriously." Apple Bloom nodded.

Sweetie Belle raises her head out of the pillow, her eyes still soaking wet from all the tears she's spouting.

"We need to talk to Applejack." Sweetie Belle suggested.

"No!" Apple Bloom and Scootaloo exclaimed.

"Twilight?" Carrie offered, but the two fillies shook their heads in refusal.

"No!"

"....Mason?" Carrie and Sweetie Belle brightened up at their idea, but the two shook their heads.

"No no no!" The two ponies shook their head furiously. 

"Well don't you worry you two, your general has already solved your problem." I grinned, much to their confusion.

"What do you mean...?" Scootaloo questioned, raising a brow of suspicion at me.

"What I mean is that I told Mason, and he told Applejack, and now they're gonna scold Babs Seed." I grinned cockily, crossing my arms. 

"What?!" Apple Bloom and Scootaloo jaw-dropped in shock.

"Yes!" Sweetie Belle and Carrie perked up happily at it before noticing the two glares sent by their friends, making them smiled sheepishly at them. 

"Why in the wide wide world of Equestria would you do that?!" Scootaloo exclaimed. "Do you want to be called snitches?!"

"Ha ha, like insults like this would even make me feel all mopey-dopey sad!" I scoffed before making a playful grin. "You girls should be thanking me for saving your lives!"

"Well I don't Skye!" Apple Bloom huffed. "Why would you do that?! Now we're gonna be made fun of more!"

"Well I think it's a nice thing. It's the right thing to do." Carrie pointed out. "I want to help you girls, but the only way to do that is by telling the grown-ups how to solve our problems."

"Well I don't accept it either! Thanks to her, we're gonna be bullied by the others too!" Scootaloo groaned before she began taking off. "I'm out and hopefully that I can find a way to stop this!"

"But I already told Mason and Applejack!" I exclaimed. "There's no need to worry! How about we just go up to my room and let's just slack off...and do training...as I would put it!"

"Does slacking off counts as par of being in the military?" Carrie asked curiously, which I shrugged.

I mean, I just go around playing and testing with my inventions, so it's no different.

"Ugh! Now this is all just becoming more worse!" Apple Bloom groaned.

"Look, don't you girls think this is a good thing? Besides, don't listen to them." I reassured. "I mean, you got us and it doesn't matter on what she says. She'll get her punishment once Private Applejack and Private Mason gets the job done."

"Okay, but what if it doesn't work?" Scootaloo questioned.

"Hmm...Then I'll be able to talk to her. I'm like way older than her...maybe." I shrugged. "Look, just trust me on this one. Leave it to General Skye Jones!"

"Hmm...I still don't think we need to tell the adults...but...alright." Apple Bloom huffed.

"Come on girls, I think Skye did the right thing." Carrie softly smiled. "We should support her idea, I mean she's the older one so she knows what she's doing."

"Yeah, I trust her!" Sweetie Belle agreed, earning a soft smile on my face.

I'm glad that these two are on my side. Heh...

"Well..alright...fine." Scootaloo grumbled before she began taking her leave.

"I guess we need to leave...Goodbye..." Apple Bloom sighed, following her out.

"Oh right! Rarity must be wondering where I am right now! Night girls! Thanks again Skye!" Sweetie Belle quickly ran out of the home-ship as me and Carrie walked over and watched the girls take their leave. 

"You really think they would actually believe that? They look pretty upset." Carrie pointed out before adding "Well except Sweetie Belle."

"Well I'm sure they'll soon realize that it was a good idea...Trust me, holding back secrets is not good...unless it's birthday surprises." I shrugged. "Trust me...holding something back like this isn't a very healthy thing and I would know...I just don't want you girls to do something drastic that would end up...."

"Skye...?" Carrie turned to me, seeing the frown on my face. 

It's not just any frown. It's my sad frown...I always keep holding back the sadness back then, but when it comes to Amy, I can't...

Amy...was my best friend...but then when I tried protecting her from the troublemakers and when she didn't tell me or the grown-ups about what drove her insane...she....No, don't even think about it. It's not my concern anymore...and I won't relive that moment once more...Now then, let's just stay calm and try being happy.

"Nah, don't worry about me Carrie." I reassured with a cocky grin. "Now...who wants to spy on some stuff around town? We might see some things that we might use to 'disciple' some of our friends."

"Hmm...Okay!" Carrie smiled. 

"Heh heh, that's just how I like to hear." I smirked. 

Heh, hope Mason teaches Babs Seed a lesson-





H-Huh? What the heck is this?! 

I widened my eyes as I saw something through the strange static. Ooh, what kind of vision is this?! This all looks so realistic! Oh wait, this is my head! And...is that me? And what's that thing on my head?

"Fine...Might as well forgot...but even so, our bonds will still be within us..."

What? What did I just say? And....





"U-Ugh!" W-Whoa! What in the world was that?!

"Skye? What's wrong?!" Huh? I turned to Carrie, who looked at me with a worried look. 

"O-Oh...It's nothing." I grinned, trying to hold back my headache. "Just...nothing. Come on, let's head out."

"O-Oh...Okay..." Carrie nodded before we made our way over to the couch to enjoy some screen time on my remote control as we were gonna spy around Ponyville. Heh, alright, time for battle!





Meanwhile, with the Cutie Mark Crusaders...

"I still can't believe that Carrie's new friend would just tell on Babs Seed, now it'll just make things even more worse than before." Apple Bloom groaned as she and Scootaloo began walking through the streets when the sun was setting through town.

"I know right? This just sucks! Now what are we gonna do?!" Scootaloo groaned. "She's totally gonna bully us even more!"

"Perhaps you two need...motivation?" The two fillies stopped in their tracks before slowly looking back, finding no pony around.

"Um...You heard that too, right?" Scootaloo asked worriedly, which Apple Bloom nodded in agreement.

"Do not feel fear upon me, little girls." The two fillies looked back in the front to encounter a familiar villainous mask wearing figure staring down at them. 

"AAAH!" The two girls screeched in fear, attempting to run till Void appeared right behind them in an instant, blocking their way.

"W-Who are you?!" Scootaloo exclaimed.

"My name is Void...and I am here to led you two a hand." Void acquired. "Simply for your little quarrel with this Babs Seed bully of yours, right?"

"H-How do you know about Babs Seed?" Apple Bloom questioned, raising a brow at Void.

"I know every one of you..." Void crossed his arms, his left eye visor glowing a bit. "But now listen you two, I can understand...not telling the grown-ups to avoid getting hurt...to not feel misery...and keep on the punishment...the adults don't understand anything other than making you slaves..."

"What? But Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Mason, or anyone we know don't think like that." Scootaloo stated.

"True, that's what they want you to think." Void retorted. "You two girls have your rights to deal with Babs Seed...and do you think you can even be friends with a bully? Or even be related to one?"

"Well..." Apple Bloom and Scootaloo looked at each other and frowned.

"Exactly...What if the adults even do try talking to her, what will that change? It'll increase more of the bullying." Void exclaimed before raising his hands in the air. "That is why you are desperate for a change...desperate on getting revenge on her...to teach her a lesson...to bring her what happens when she messes with those who betrayed her...it is your decision...Go on your way..." 

Void disappears into the darkness, leaving Apple Bloom and Scootaloo feel confused on it.

"...You know, he may be right...even though he's creepy..." Apple Bloom hummed. 

"Yeah...we can't handle much more of what she's doing to us...even with Skye telling Applejack and Mason what happened, it won't change the fact of her to stop bullying even more." Scootaloo agreed.

"Well I got a plan to teach her a lesson..." Apple Bloom smirked.





Mason's POV

Hmm...Where could she be? Hmm...if she keeps following my sister and her friends around, then she must be wherever they are.

"AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Huh? That sounded like it came from the Cutie Mark Crusaders' clubhouse. What's going on over there? I began running over to the source of the laughter before reaching over to the clubhouse, seeing Babs Seed with...Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.

It looks like they were taking their leave out of the treehouse, and they were started to mock my sister and the rest of her friends.

"Can you even believe what you did back there?!" Diamond Tiara laughed. "Who knew ruining those blank flanks and that freakish hairless ape would be so fun!"

"Ha ha ha, yeah...it was really something." Silver Spoon agreed.

I would see that those two are still troublemakers to this day. 

"Yeah..." Babs Seed nodded in agreement. 

Hm? Something's not up with her...What's going on with her?

"Well anyway, we better get home. See ya soon Babs!" Diamond Tiara chuckled.

"I hope you enjoy the Summer Harvest Parade tomorrow!" Silver Spoon added, following her cohort over back to their homes while Babs Seed stood here, standing while letting out a sigh.

"Babs Seed?" I called, gaining her attention.

"O-Oh...Hi there, Mr. Hunter." Babs greeted with a timid smile. "W-What is it?"

"We need to talk." I pressed sternly, crossing my arms. "It's about the issue concerning about my sister and her friends."

"H-Huh? What about them?" Babs Seed asked in concern. "I mean, I don't know if-"

"Skye told me that you've been bullying my sister and her friends." I cut her off while leaving her stunned at the accusation.

"U-Um, no! I haven't! We've been...getting along with them! Yeah, even becoming new friends...with Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon." Babs Seed grinned nervously, blowing some wind up her hair. 

Nice try...There's no way you're fooling me.

"Babs Seed...We need to talk...and I don't want you to lie..." I demanded. "That's all I'm asking, please."

Babs just stared with a scared look, sweating all over the place while I stood at her with a serious look.

"L-Listen...I...I don't know what she told you, but..." Babs gulped.

"She didn't have to tell me, she showed it to me on camera." I explained, shocking her. "So care to explain?"

"....A-Are you gonna hurt me?" What? Why would she say that? Oh...she must be talking about her experience back home.

"No...I'm not. I don't hurt kids, Babs." I spoken softly, walking over to her and bending down to her height, giving her a soft smile. "Listen Babs Seed, Applejack told me a lot what happened to you...and...I'm really sorry on what happened to you...but why are you hurting Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and my sister?"

Babs frowned worriedly, looking away with a bit of guilt on her face.

"I-I...I don't wanna hurt my cousin...nor her friends...or your sister...I...I..." Babs started sniffing and whimpering, feeling remorse for her actions. "I...I had no choice...I panicked and...became a bully...I'm no better than the bullies at home..."

I see...she was just terrified of being hurt so she became something that she had resented in order to not embrace the hurt once more...I understand...

"I-I...I didn't want to do it..." Babs Seed sniffed. "They were all so nice...they looked like nice ponies and human...especially Skye...despite her being so stern...

I softly smiled at her and patted her on the head, making her look up to me in confusion as tears started developing in her face.

"It's okay...There's no need to be afraid...I understand what you mean." I reassured. "And...you don't have to keep acting up and pretending to be a bully, besides, you should trust my sister and her friends on how they deal with those two. Trust me, they know how to kick the bucket when it comes to bullying."

"R-Really...?" Babs Seed asked, blinking in shock. I nodded in response, earning a smile upon her face before feeling her hugging me. "Thank you so much, Mr. Hunter!"

"No problem at all, Babs. And no need for the formalities, we are friends after all." I softly smiled. "Please, call me Mason."

"Heh heh, okey dokey Mason!" Babs Seed laughed. 

"Now come on, let me take you back to the barn." I offered, which she happily accepted before the two of us began leaving the area and headed back over to her family house.

Heh...who would've thought that she would act up like that...Actually, there's one more question that I've been wondering...

"Hey, about that float...you wouldn't have a chance that...?" I turned to her, earning a sheepish smile and a little tint of red on her cheeks. Figures...

"Yeah...but don't worry, your cousins are fixing her up for the Summer Harvest Parade tomorrow. Trust me, I understand..." I explained softly, earning a soft smile from her.

"Yeah...thank you Mason..." Babs Seed chuckled.

Heh...Well I'll be sure to let the kids know about this tomorrow.





The Next Day

"Hey, don't touch her!" 

That was the first thing I shouted, the day where I met her.

I rushed over to some of the bullies of my school, pushing away the older kids from harming my first friend. 

"Hey! What do you think you're doing?!" The first bully reacted, glaring at me.

"I said that you don't touch her!" I screamed, making a little karate pose I've seen when I saw this awesome kung-fu movie, but that's not the point! 

"Tch, come on, we were just having our fun with this wimpy stupid girl." The second bully complained while the girl behind me whimpered in fear.

"Well I don't think so! You better get out of here or else!" I demanded, glaring hard at the girl.

"Or what shrimpy?" The third bully mockingly laughed at me. I let out a smirk before taking out my controller and began using my controller, letting down my helicopter toy before having it shoot out toy bullets and toy missiles straight into them.

"AHHHHHH!" 

The three bullies started screaming before they began running away in fear. 

"Ha ha ha! That'll show them! I saved the day!" Skye laughed before turning to the girl who was being picked on, offering my hand to her. "So, how it's going?"

"I-I'm okay...Just...alright. Thank you." She thanked, smiling softly at me. "I-I didn't know that you had something like that."

"Oh, my dad was able to have the Board of Education to allow me to keep it since I'm practically a star student here in this school." I smirked, crossing my arms.

"Oh? Are you that young prodigy that showed up here?" She asked curiously. "Um, you look a lot younger."

"I skipped several grades to my intelligent of VR technology and electronics like my toy helicopter for example." I giggled. 

"And...you seemed to be a fan of the U.S. Military, right?" Hm? Oh that? Well my family has been known to being a part of the family, so it was no biggie for me to have an absolute love for it.

"Heh heh, you just noticed?" I smirked. 

"Heh heh heh, you're really cute." She complimented, earning a blush from me but kept my smile. 

"Why thank you! So...I'm Skye Jones! General Skye Jones!" I chuckled.

"Really? Is that your title name or something?" She giggled, earning a sheepish smile from me as I replied "W-Well...yeah! Gotta problem with that?!"

"No no, nothing like that..." She made a small smile as she placed a hand on her chest. "I'm Amy...It's nice to meet you Skye..."

Heh...Amy may have been a Sophomore, but nonetheless, she was a good friend I made that day. She was like, 16, when we met while I was 11 on my Sophomore year due to my smarts and how easily I did on my exams. Everyday, we would meet up on our favorite spot around my home town, the park.

We always go there to enjoy the sunshine and began doing our studies, which were so boring to me since I practically knew every answer to them, so we enjoyed on every part on what we do best...

"Ha ha! Look at that guy!" I laughed, pointing down on my monitor as my chopter took a shot of a man walking out of a store before putting on a toupe to hide his baldness, possibly bought it inside there.

"I gotta say, it looks pretty cool seeing this." Amy smiled softly. 

"Heck yeah it is! It just fun seeing around town in this." I chuckled before turning to her. "Say Amy, do you wanna give it a try? I can teach ya the controls..."

"Oh, really?" Amy asked reluctantly. "Are you really sure Skye?"

"Totally sure! Now give it a go!" I yelled, nearly having people who were minding their own business around the park to turn and see us. I sheepishly smiled before waving at them while Amy giggled at my reaction at them before she began tinkering around the controls.

"It's really easy. You just gotta be able to use the left joystick to move it up or down, and the right joystick to move it left or right, and the monitor, obviously sees everything, and this button shows to turn on the speaker. Heh heh, I do it to scare off my enemy." I smirked. "Wanna give it a try?"

"Oh! Thank you!" Amy smiled happily before she pressed the button and spoke through the small mic installed into my remote. 

"RAAAR! GIVE ME YOUR DONUTS!" She yelled through the microphone, earning a raise of brow on my face as I questioned "Really? That's it? That's all you gotta say, girl?"

"Sorry, couldn't find the right way to say it." She chuckled with a grin before pointing over to the monitor, having me stare at it before I started laughing at the same man I saw earlier on the screen, apparently alarming him out of fear as his toupee fell off his head, which he soon realizes before he quickly tries to put it back on.

"Ha ha ha ha ha! Oh my god! That is so hilarious!" I snorted before smiling down at her. "Gotta say, you're pretty awesome!"

"Yeah...but those bullies...they think I'm lamed...because I'm a nerd..." Amy frowned, looking down sadly. "You probably don't wanna be friends with a nerd anyway..."

"So what?! I don't care!" I exclaimed, shocking her. "I'll always be by your side and always make ya happy! After meeting you today, I can tell that we can be the bestest of friends! What do ya say, Sergeant Amy?"

"Y-You're making me a Sergeant? But I'm not even in the ROTC program." Amy stated, earning a huff from me.

"So what? Does that matter? You're my best friend...and friends like us stick together forever." I reassured. "You're really something unlike what those idiots say. Trust me..." 

I extended my hand over to Amy, smiling softly at her.

"...Alright, General Skye." Now that's the spirit! Heck yeah! Now you're really digging it! I'm really glad to have a friend just like you...

I hope our friendship goes great together in the nearby future...!





"Ugh..." Huh? What? Oh...it was just a dream...It must be one of the dreams based on one of the exciting dreams that I had with her...

Man...Why did I have a dream with her? My old comrade and a girl's best friend...my bestie. 

No, no use reliving the past! What we need to do is to keep aiming for the future! Yeah, something cool like Corporeal Loodan would say....Yeah...Something like that. Would he? I don't know, but he seems to be the leader like everyone says despite me being the general...So I don't know.

Anyway, I should head out and meet up for breakfast.

After putting on my clothes on and entered the elevator, going all the way down to the main room where I saw my other comrades eating up their breakfast.

"Morning Skye!" Carrie greeted, happily waving at me.

"Morning Private Carrie." I greeted with a grin, slightly adjusting my helmet with a big playful smirk on my face. "I see you lazy maggots are already up and moving."

"Do you have to keep calling us that still?" Kaede asked, sweat-dropping a little.

"Well I'm sorta used to it." Ren shrugged. "Besides, I wouldn't mind. It's her way to show us how she cares for us."

"T-That's right Corporeal Loodan! Good eye there!" I nodded, blushing a bit.

Did he have to say that aloud?!

"It's my way to teach you fools how to play it cool!" I exclaimed. "Don't disrespect your general!"

"We're kinda not, well at least some of us..." Ren smiled nervously before turning to the rest of the gang with a hopeful smile. "So anyway, you guys are gonna get ready for the Summer Harvest Parade?"

"Hmm...Might as well." Rantaro snorted. "Make some money with some of the fruits that I managed to get from some of the ponies around here with a fair price..." 

That earned a groaned from everyone before they shook their heads. Jeez, this guy just loves being the criminal of this group, which is ironic since these guys told me a little bit about this guy. Although, I'll be glad to get his attitude in check.

"I'm more interested in the food." Jack huffed, rubbing his large belching gut.

"Really? Why?" Carrie asked curiously.

"Cause he's fat." Rantaro smirked, earning a tick mark on the large fat man.

"Watch it, money grabber!" Jack growled, attempting to go over and choke him till Ren gotten up, along with Jamie.

"Wait! Guys! Calm down!" Ren yelled out.

"H-He's right...C-Can we not fight please? I mean...it wouldn't be right." Jamie agreed. "Let's just calm down and pretend this fight never happen."

Jack growled before turning away in a huff, "Fine."

Phew, that was a close call. 

"Well good luck with that, you all. So Carrie..." I leaned over to her and whispered "Did your brother take care of Babs Seed?"

"I think so..." Carrie nodded. "Besides...I haven't heard from Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo as of yet."

"Why not we go and check up on them?" I suggested, which Carrie nodded.

"Hm? Aren't you two hungry...?" Nicole asked, glancing over to us through her iPad.

"Not so much, Private Bonnie. So you can go back on what you're doing on your device." I waved it off, earning a shrug from her before she looked back from the iPad.

Alright...Let's go see what the others are up to for the Summer Harvest Parade.

"Big brother, we're gonna go play with Apple Bloom and the others! We'll be back!" Carrie called out.

"Hm? Oh Carrie! Skye!" Mason called as we were already near the door. "Before you go, we need to talk."

"If it's about Babs Seed, then don't worry. We know you took care of her." I grinned before opening the door as I pushed Carrie over to the door. "Now come on Carrie, we got some stuff to do!"

"Oh! O-Okay!" Carrie nodded.

"But that's-"

Sorry, can't hear you! I'm closing the door! Jeez, what's up with him? Oh well, doesn't matter! Let's head out!

"Do you think big brother wanted to tell us something important?" Carrie asked me, feeling worried.

"Hmm...Don't worry. I'm sure it's nothing." I shrugged. "It was probably about how he gave that stern talking to Babs Seed. Heh heh, now let's head out." 

"Hmm...Okay!" Carrie cheered before we began making our way over to the Apple Family Farmhouse. However, as we continued our way over there...we took witness of a big apple-like float making its way past the gate of the place, and upon our shock, it was Babs Seed riding it.

"Babs Seed?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"But...what is she doing riding it?!" Carrie widened her eyes in horror. "Why is she riding it?!"

"I don't know, but one thing's for sure is that we gotta warn the others!" I exclaimed before turning over to the barn. "Come on! Let's hurry before it's too late!"

Carrie nodded before the two of us quickly rushed over to the barn, finding the Cutie Mark Crusaders snickering at each other. Well just Scootaloo and Apple Bloom. Sweetie Belle just feels confused at the moment.

"The timer set?" Apple Bloom asked the filly Pegasus, who nodded with a smirk.

"Yep! Time to teach her to never mess with the Cutie Mark Crusaders!" Scootaloo laughed.

"Why would you girls do that? Isn't this kinda too far?" Sweetie Belle asked worriedly.

"So? This will teach her what happens when she's messing with us." Apple Bloom reassured.

"What are you girls talking about?" Carrie asked as the two of us finally caught up with them.

"Yeah, and what is this about some timer?" I added, crossing my arms. "You girls better not have planted a bomb into that machine, did ya?!"

"What? No! Nothing like that!" Scootaloo shook her head. "We just...sorta...you know...booby-trapped the float."

"You what?!" Carrie exclaimed. "Why would you do that?! Didn't Skye tell on big brother about what she did and went to tell Applejack it?!"

"It wouldn't work out. She would keep hurting us even more if we didn't do anything soon enough!" Apple Bloom stated. "This is why we need to do this."

"Do what exactly?" Ah! Oh crap! It's Mason! And even worse, Applejack's with him.

"Is something the matter?" Applejack asked in concern, raising a brow at us.

"Huh? Mason? Applejack?!" I exclaimed, surprised upon seeing them right behind us. "What are you all doing here?!"

"We came by to check up on you. Care to explain what's going on?" Mason questioned, crossing his arms.

"Uhh..." The Cutie Mark Crusaders widened their eyes and started growing nervous. This is just problematic thanks to these two girls pulling this little prank on Babs Seed. 

"Girls, come on!" Carrie pleaded. "We need to do something before Babs might get hurt!"

"What do you mean?" Applejack asked.

"Well..." Apple Bloom gulped.

"Listen girls, I know it's hard but you can't keep something like this." I spoken, giving them a sympathetic smile. "Keeping something away from your friend is hard, but we got your friends back. Even me, as your general and your friend, trust me..."

The Cutie Mark Crusaders looked at each other with worried looks before nodding at me. 

"Well...Okay." Apple Bloom sighed. "I'm sure Skye already told you, so..."

"Yes, I know because me and Applejack know why Babs Seed hurted you in the first place." Mason explained.

"Yep. I thought you girls were making her feel so special. You know, after all the heartache she's been having in Manehattan." Applejack added, earning a shocked look from the trio, even from me and Carrie.

"R-Really?" Carrie asked.

"L-Like what...?" I questioned, having this scary feeling up in my gut.

"Well, I didn't say nothing cause I didn't want her to feel singled out, but I was pretty stupid to not tell ya all if I knew this might've happened between you two." Applejack sighed. "I already told Mason what's wrong, but there's some bullies back in Manehattan just been teasing her to pieces for her blank flank."

Wait what?! Is...that true?! So...she's actually a victim of bullying too?! Then...I...Why didn't I found out so soon?! Because of my desire to make my friends feel protected...? Oh man...what have I done...? 

"T-T-Teased?!" Apple Bloom squeaked.

"B-Bullies?!" Sweetie Bell gasped.

"Yeah, she came here to get away from the bullies in Manehattan." Applejack nodded, giving them each a stern look. "Why couldn't you girls say something to us? We would've sorted this out."

"I wanted to!" Sweetie Belle whined, giving a quick glare to Apple Bloom and Scootaloo, which the two fillies sheepishly smiled back at them.

"Me too...but we were afraid to get bullied more by her even if we told you...we're sorry." Carrie sniffled. 

"No, it was my fault..." I looked down sadly. "If I just maybe soon found out that she was being picked on, and stopped being so stubborn, maybe we could have work things out so well...but now she's in trouble."

"So that's why she joined Diamond Tiara." Sweetie Belle muttered.

"She didn't want to be bullied in Ponyville so she decided to be a bully instead." Apple Bloom frowned.

"And now we've become the bullies too." Scootaloo added.

"What are we gonna do?!" The four of them exclaimed with Carrie frowning before muttering "This is our all fault..."

Babs Seed just wanted to protect herself by becoming a bully, when deep inside that she never wanted to in the first place...I feel so bad....this guilt swelling up in my heart...Ngh! No! I am not gonna fall for that again! I already failed with Amy when she left this world, but now, I'm gonna make it up for her!

"What do you mean?" Mason asked in concern. 

"The float! It's been booby-trapped by them!" I explained. "Right now, we got a float to stop! Operation: Saving Babs Seed is on the go! We need to hurry before it's too late! Hurry!" I exclaimed before turning to the girls. "Now come on girls! Let's go! Move out girls!"

"Yeah!" Carrie and the Cutie Mark Crusaders nodded before we quickly rushed over through the scene. 

"Carrie! Skye! Sweetie Belle!" Mason called.

"Get back here, Apple Bloom! Scootaloo!" Applejack shouted, chasing after us along with Mason.

We better hurry or else...Babs might get hurt or worse.





Later

Where is she?! Where is that float she was riding?!

We raced through the crowd to catch up to Babs to save her. I don't know where it is since the entire place is filled with so many of these ponies celebrating the Summer Harvest that I hardly even know where that stupid float she was riding in!

"There it is!" Carrie pointed over to the giant golden apple parade float roaming across the streets with a familiar brown pony with freckles waving over at the crowd.

"Come on troops! Get through the crowd before it's too late!" I exclaimed before we quickly rushed past some ponies as I quickly took out my chopter and began flying it over through the crowds as I quickly pinpointed the float as I managed to make it move over to Babs Seed direction.

"Babs Seed! You need to get out of that float now!" I screamed through the mic, trying to gain her attention. But...she wasn't listening and just kept waving at the crowd. This is just so stupid!

"She won't listen!" I grunted, making our way straight over to see the parade float losing away from our sight.

"What are we gonna do?!" Scootaloo exclaimed before I quickly pinpointed another float by the distance.

"There! Right over there!" I pointed over to the big lettuce float.

"Oh! I get it!" Apple Bloom smirked. "If we're gonna catch that float, we need a float too!"

Dang straight right there, Apple Bloom! Now hurry!

We quickly chased after the float before I quickly called out to the pony controlling the thing.

"Hey! Let us in!" I shouted, only to receive a surprise welcome from a familiar pink pony.

"'Lettuce in'? Ha ha ha! Nice one General Skye!" Sergeant Pinkie?! Oh yes! She can help us!

"What are you...Oh right..." Wow, way to go for me to walk into that one. "But anyway Sergeant Pinkie! Let us in! We got to save Private Babs Seed and fast! We're on a rescue mission!"

"Sergeant Pinkie! Reporting for duty!" Pinkie saluted before giggling to herself. "Duty..."

"Grow up Sergeant Pinkie." I stated sternly before silently snickering to myself. 

She's right, it is pretty funny. Duty...

Soon, Pinkie quickly rushed open the door and let down a small rope ladder for us to climb onto, which we quickly did before we managed to climb up and enter the lettuce cart.

"Now let's make haste!" I shouted, rushing over the controls and began controlling the thing.

"Skye, I didn't know you can ride a float!" Pinkie exclaimed, getting excited by me. "You must be really good, eh?"

"Meh, it's nothing different than driving a car." And I may be young, but still, I'm a prodigy with technology. What did you people and ponies expect?

"Quick! She's near the cliff!" Sweetie Belle called, pointing over to the edge of the cliff where Babs Seed were approaching.

"What did you girls even do in the first place?!" Carrie asked in worried.

"Well we rigged for the controls to not work, and she would fall into the edge of the mud pool." Apple Bloom explained. "It was just a harmless prank, but now I think we've gone too far."

"Well not in my watch! I won't let them down!" I exclaimed before stepping on the gas pedal and began moving past the other floats.

Soon after a few accidents with some of the ponies, we managed to reach Babs Seed's float, who stared at us in shock.

"Girls?! What are you doing here?!" Babs Seed called.

"We're here to rescue you!" I yelled back. "You need to get out of that float before you'll go over that cliff! It's rigged!"

"You need to hurry!" Apple Bloom added.

"What?!" Babs Seed exclaimed in shock before looking back at the cliff, widening her eyes in shock upon seeing how big it is before she began attempting to move the controls, but they weren't budging a bit.

"Oh no! The timer's already been set!" Apple Bloom exclaimed.

"This is bad!" Scootaloo begins panicking with Sweetie Belle and Carrie covering their eyes in fear.

"Oh no!" The two squeaked in fear.

No no no! No girl is being left behind!

"No! We need to hurry! We gotta stop this!" I exclaimed. "Quick Babs, grab my hand!"

I extended my hand over to her, as Babs looked at me with a surprised look before attempting to grab it, but we saw that we were almost there to the cliff. Crap! We aren't gonna make it!

"Veggie salad!" Pinkie interrupted, much to our confusion by her saying.

"What was that?!" I asked her in shock.

"I said Veggie Salad!" Pinkie shouted, pointing over to the cliff.

Well yeah! I know that! What do you think I'm trying to do! Well...there's just one more thing to do...

"Girls, if I don't make it out, well...it was nice serving you." I saluted with them before quickly climbing over to the controls and jumping over to Babs' float, managing to get in there in time.

"Skye?!" The girls exclaimed in shock.

"Skye, what are you doing?!" Babs asked in shock before noticing Pinkie reclaiming the controls and attempted to drive away, but ended up crashing down into a tree, ruining her parade float.

"Not gonna leave a soldier like you behind! Where's the fun in that?!" I grinned before turning to see the cliff up ahead. Oh crap! We gotta get out of here! "Come on Babs! Let's get the hell out of here!"

"A-Ah!" Babs shrieked as we quickly looked back and saw that it was too late as the float came crashing out of the railway and was plummeting down towards the ground with the two of us still inside of it.

"Aaahhhh!" We both screamed in terror, holding onto each other.

This is it! The end of General Skye Jones! I never even gotten the chance to get my tech into the military where I gotten that medal of honor! Or even a Nobel Peace Prize! I want to at least have an honorary funeral! NOOOOOOOO!

...........

...........Uhh...Any time now? Why am I still monologuing? 

"Whoa..." Hm? I slowly opened my eyes and to my shock, we were already out of the float in sheer seconds before it came crashing down into the ground, which was covered in mud and it was pretty deep since the float just slowly sunk down in there.

"Huh? What just happened?" I wondered aloud before hearing a small growl. Oh man, I do not like that sound at all.

I slowly turned around before turning to see a white tiger looking over behind us. Wait, what the!?

"Whoa...w-what is that...?" Babs Seed asked in worried.

"That's a white Tiger, or Panthera tigris as I would put it." I explained, gazing at it. "Whoa, holy crap, uh...thanks big guy."

...I can't help but feel like I've seen this big guy before...Nah, probably not.

Soon after five seconds of a little stare-off, it secretly began running away.

"Whoa...what was up with that?" I wondered aloud.

"I don't know, but it just saved us." Babs muttered before turning to my direction. "But Skye...you...you tried to save me."

"Oh, nah, it was nothing. Just doing it for a friend." I smirked, confusing her.

"But...after I'd been so mean to ya...you saved me!" Babs exclaimed. 

"About that..." I rubbed the back of my head before the others quickly went over to her side.

"And you girls...you also tried to save me even after I was being a jerk to ya." Babs frowned.

"Yeah..." Apple Bloom sighs before looking at her cousin with a remorseful look. "We...planned all that...to get you back till Mason and Applejack told us what happened..."

"What?! But I don't get it! I saw it all happen! Skye tried to save me just when the float was about to head into the lake!" Babs Seed exclaimed.

"Except...we were the reason it was headed into the lake." Scootaloo admitted, feeling ashamed for her actions. 

"But why? Skye told big brother and Applejack about this mess." Carrie explained.

"We know, but we should have listen to you instead of this creepy fella we bumped into..." Apple Bloom sighed, confusing some of us.

"What do you mean?" I asked in confusion. "You talked and listened to some stranger about this?! Whatever happened to 'Stranger Danger'?!"

Seriously, did nobody take that ruin seriously! That's rule number one for any grown-up to give ya! Well actually, I've seen tons of strangers, I got nothing...

"We know, we know...it was our fault..." Scootaloo huffed before turning apologetic to Babs Seed. "We're sorry Babs Seed...we booby-trapped the float. Skye, Carrie, and Sweetie Belle didn't...we both should have been ashamed of ourselves."

"Hey!" Huh? We turned around to see Mason and Applejack making their way.

"Big brother!" Carrie called.

"Applejack!" Apple Bloom gasped.

"We finally found you!" Applejack sighed in relief. "And Babs...you're alright?!"

"Y-Yeah...Thanks to Skye and the others." Babs Seed smiled softly.

"Huh...is that so?" Mason turned to us with a raised brow and smirked while the rest of us girls began sheepishly smiling at them. Heh heh...awkward...

"Well we can discuss this back at the barn. I think that's a safer place to begin." Applejack sighed.

"Yeah, I guess you're right..." I nodded before realizing that we were missing somepony. "Hey wait, where's Sergeant Pinkie? Wasn't she around here?"

"I'm right here!" Hm? Oh, there she is! Just sitting on her ruined float and eating some of the parts. Wait, is that real lettuce? How did...? Hmm...I really improve her skills. This is why I need her to teach me her skills...!





Later

Soon after we saved Babs Seed, we all headed back to the Apple Family Farm  where we began discussing much on what happened.

"So you took the advice of some stranger and just decided to just get back on Babs?!" Applejack exclaimed.

"Yes..." Apple Bloom nodded.

"Yeah..." Scootaloo sighed.

"You two are in big trouble." Mason crossed his arms with a serious look. "I'll be discussing your punishments."

"Same." Applejack nodded, earning gulps from the two fillies.

"So who's this strange fella?" I questioned. "The one who told ya that?"

"Don't know, but he had a dark mask covering his entire head." Apple Bloom explained.

"And he spoke in a deep voice, almost as if it was being altered." Scootaloo added.

"Wait a minute...Could it be Void?" Mason wondered, much to my confusion.

"Void?" I asked in confusion. "Who's dat? The enemy soldier of yours?"

"Mm-hmm...he's this creepy man in a mask that seems to know us...but we don't know where he went..." Carrie stated with a frown. "He's really scary as the others told us."

"Yeah...Ren and the others who fought filled us in on what he looked like and what he is, so I have to take a guess." Mason nodded in agreement. "Right now, we need to make sure to keep an eye out for him."

"Hmm..." So this Void is the bad guy? Jeez, what the heck did I miss out around here? I'm missing all the fun and cool stuff for this long! Dang it!

"Um..." Babs Seed spoken, frowning sadly. 

"Yes? What is it Babs?" Apple Bloom asked.

"I wanna ask why...Why save me after everything I've done to ya?" Babs Seed questioned, looking at us with her sad frown.

Carrie gave her a smile before saying "Because big brother and Applejack told us what happened. Skye told them already since yesterday, but Apple Bloom and Scootaloo didn't seem to like it so they tried getting you back thanks to Void..."

"But then Applejack and Mason told us about how you were being bullied back in Manehattan..." Scootaloo added, making a guilty look.

"And we figured out you were just doing it to avoid getting picked on in Ponyville. But, by then...we were the ones being bullies. And...Oh, why does life have to be so ironic?!" Sweetie Belle whined, rubbing her head.

"Guess what we're trying to say is..." Apple Bloom frowned.

"We're sorry." The girls apologized. 

I made a frown before glancing down sadly and began speaking of my own.

"Yeah, same here. I thought of you as a jerk, but I soon realize that you were just a victim too...I should have instead talk to you about why you done it instead of trying to ignore you...and I call myself a friend..." 

I couldn't have found out about what happened to Amy when she started acting weird...so...why? Why could I now?

Suddenly, I felt someone hugged me before looking to see Carrie was the one who hugged me. She looked up to me with a soft smile and said "It's alright Skye. We know it wasn't your fault."

"Right." Mason smiled softly. "Just don't be so quick to judge others based on their behavior."

Huh...I see. Heh heh, I get it.

"Yeah...Thanks Private Mason and Private Carrie!" I chuckled before turning to Babs Seed. "Hey Babs, let's start over...please. That way, we can truly be friends and we can start over. What do ya say...Private Babs?"

"P-Private Babs?" Babs asked in confusion. 

"That's her way to say that she's calling you a friend." Carrie explained, making Babs sweat-dropped at that.

"Okay...So can we start over?" She asked the Crusaders. The three looked at each other before giggling happily.

"Darn tooting!" Apple Bloom exclaimed, much to Babs' joy.

"You girls know this could have been avoided if you have just came to us in the first place." Applejack pointed out with a raised brow. "In fact, Skye felt like the mature one for telling Mason."

"Well duh! I'm always the mature person in this group because I'm the general!" I chuckled, bringing up a cocky grin.

"We know." The girls nodded.

"We didn't want to be tattletales." Carrie admitted, rubbing her arm bashfully.

"Carrie, you are not a tattletale when you tell on a bully." Mason stated softly.

"Yeah, telling people about what's wrong is always a good thing in order for your friends or anyone you know can help you." Applejack added before we began hearing some sort of country music being played in the background. Whoa, what the heck is going on?


You're Not A Tattletale



Applejack:
If a bully is mean or taking your things 
Making you scared or making you blue
I know it's hard, but you've got to tell
The people who care about you

You're not a tattletale when you tell on a bully

Mason:
Stand up, speak out, tell friends the truth

Applejack and Mason:
Do it to protect yourself!

Applejack:
And the bully won't bully anyone else



Applejack and Mason:
You're not a tattletale when you tell on a bully
I tell you, it's the right thing to do

Mason:
You can count on your friends

Applejack:
So that the bully doesn't bully again

Mason and Applejack:
You're not a tattletale when you tell on a bully
Stand up, speak out, tell friends the truth
You're gonna be proud of yourself
When they don't bully you or anyone else

You're not a tattletale when you tell on a bully
I tell you, it's the right thing to do.


....Uhhhh...What was that before?

"Yeah...You're right." Carrie giggled. "I promise that we won't let this happen again."

"Y-Yeah...Same." I nodded in agreement. "By that whole song you two done."

"U-Um...it's something you might have to get used to every now and then." Mason blushed a bit.

Ah, that explains it...When did this become Disney? 

"Mm...Okay. I trust you girls." Babs smiled softly. "Let's do it together."

"Now that's the spirit!" I exclaimed with a satisfied smile.

"You know, I'm really glad that Babs turned out to be cool. I hope I'll never forget this lesson for good.





Later

While the gang were laughing it over at the farm, Void was watching them from the skies with an irritated look.

"Hmph...is that so, huh? Well...I can already tell this is just great...but that tiger...what was the meaning of this?" Void thought aloud, placing a hand on his mask. "Wait....it couldn't be...No, I know it isn't...but then again, that fool told me that he took care of those nine humans as I last remember...so it isn't possible...unless she's here..."

Void's left eye visor started glowing red before he began disappearing in the darkness, unaware of someone watching over from the ground below, standing next to a white tiger as it purred at them in concern.

"It's okay Snowflake...Don't be scared...I promise that we'll see Void again...to prevent him from bringing forth the Great Fall again." The cloaked pony reassured before looking over at the town. "But...just in case...let's stay around here...and...maybe...we can see them around..."

The white tiger tilted its head in confusion before it nod in agreement as the cloaked pony begin taking their leave.

"One day...I will have to fight you again Void. For the sake for my friends."





Meanwhile

As soon as that little accident was cleared up, we all headed back to the Cutie Mark Crusader's clubhouse as Scootaloo was playing through a timpani. Huh, didn't know ponies can be able to do that...

But other than that, it was a special day for Babs Seed and I because...we were gonna become the new honorary members of the Cutie Mark Crusaders.

Sweetie Belle began clearing her throat before she began with the speech.

"We, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, elect Babs Seed and General Skye Jones to join us as sisters, friends, confidantes, allies, boss-om buddies, gal pals, compaders, chum of chums..."

"Ahem!" Scootaloo cleared her throat, giving her friend an impatient look.

"Well you wrote this!" Sweetie Belle complained, showing her the note.

"Oh, uh, yeah..."

"Come on! We're waiting!" I whined, tapping my foot. Sweetie Belle blushed in embarrassment and just continue on with the speech.

"Homegirls...Amigas..." Sweetie Belle began skipping some parts of the speech as I began tapping my foot impatiently. Come on... 

"And fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders! You are solemnly sworn in, here this day, in witness of your fellow sisters, friends, confidantes...boss-om buddies...compadres..."

"Congratulations!" Scootaloo cheered, placing the capes on Babs first before muttering under her breath, "Man...I gotta revise that..."

"And one for you Skye!" Carrie rushes over and puts on the cape for me, much to my awe. 

"Whoa..." I muttered, admiring the designs for this cape. "This looks amazing, good work crew...and as co-leader of this place, I would like to thank you all for being my new friends on this new world of Equestria!"

The girls smiled at me and giggled before Apple Bloom added "Um, who made you co-leader?"

"I'm the general of this group, so you gotta make me leader of your club, well co-leader." I smirked before calling over my chopter toy via helicopter toy. "Or...are we gonna have another lesson like last time?"

"No no, we're good!" Apple Bloom smiled nervously.

"Aww...thanks!" I laughed, putting the remote back in my pockets before admiring the cape the girls gave me.

I'm really glad to be a part of this. Ahh...I feel like I gotten my first medal...Mm...maybe so...Amy must be proud of me...and I just hope she is beyond there...





Later


"So you promise you're gonna start our Manehattan branch of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, right?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Yeah, and I promise to keep talking to my big sis about the teasing back home." Babs Seed nodded.

"Good. And if you have any problems, we've got your back too, you hear?" Applejack reminded, which Babs Seed nodded.

"And don't forget Babs...we got your back. All of us." Mason softly smiled while the rest of us nodded in agreement.

Right after the Summer Harvest Parade ended earlier, it was time for Babs to go home...and to be honest, I was really gonna miss her. We were just waiting for the train to arrive, and it sure is taking its swell time. I just want to at least go and get some cake from that cake shop back at the Home-Ship.

"Hope you come and visit again." Apple Bloom smiled.

The others nodded and that's when two little fillies came.

"You're leaving? Great, now we'll be stuck with these lame blank flanks?" Oh great, it's those two bullies that made Babs into our enemies. I want to attack them right now...!

As I wanted to call out to these two brats, Babs stopped me before shaking her head before glaring at the two fillies. Oh, here we go!

"Hey, that's not how you talk to my friends!"

Diamond Tiara as I figured out her name sometime ago from my friends, grew shocked by this, along with her friend with the latter exclaiming, "Friends?!"

"Yeah, got a problem about that?" Babs asked, glaring coolly at her.

"So what if I do? What are you going to do about it?" Diamond Tiara scoffed smugly. 

Babs looked at us before smirking at the two fillies and said, "Tell your mamas about your bad attitudes."

The two fillies shook their heads but Babs got in their faces and forced them into a mud pit near the station. 

"Ha ha ha ha!" I laughed, feeling happy by what she did. Oh my god! She just did what we all wanted to do! No frigging way! 

Babs walked over and hi-fives the rest of us as we all began laughing each other.

"Heck yeah! That's what I'm talking about! Yeah! Oh yeah Yeah girl! Whoo! High-five!" I laughed, hi-fiving Babs Seed.

"Nice one Babs!" Carrie giggled.

"I'm sure gonna miss that bad seed." Sweetie Belle sniffled.

"Bad Seed? I thought you all were friends now?" Applejack asked in confusion.

"No, see, first we called her 'bad seed' as in actually a bad seed, but now she's bad as in good. Get it?" Sweetie Belle grinned excitedly, only to receive confused looks from the grown-ups.

"Yeah...no." Applejack shook her head.

"Me too..." Mason agreed.

We all shared a laugh as the train drove into the station, opening the doors.

Before Babs gets ready to board the train, I walked over to her and saluted to her.

"Goodbye Babs..." I softly smiled. "May we meet again, soldier."

"...Yeah, me too Skye. I hope we meet again." Babs Seed giggled before giving me a salute before the two of us shared a laugh. The young filly boarded the train and was headed back to her hometown. I'm really gonna miss that pony...

"Bye bye! See ya!" Carrie waved happily while we all watched the train go.

You know...I really hope to see her again. I made some new friends, even becoming a part of the Cutie Mark Crusaders despite me having so much talents, and even befriending a person or, in specific terms, a pony that I thought as a pony.

...You know, I wish these guys would have met Amy...But even so, I'm glad to have new friends to make me feel better...And I'm happy to hear that.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 66 - Magic Duel!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Somewhere In Equestria...

A small shop opened up in the middle of nowhere, somewhere as a mysterious cloaked pony was walking into the small shop, and upon entering, the shopkeeper heard the bell attached to the door ringing, turning around to face the cloaked pony.

"Oh? A fellow customer, eh? Are you interested?" The shopkeeper asked. "Hmm, something drew you to my shop... something powerful."

The cloaked pony turned over to see a mysterious red amulet, sitting still on display.

Ah, you have a keen eye. The Alicorn Amulet is one of the most mysterious and powerful of all the known magical charms." The cloaked pony smirked before reaching out for it till the shopkeeper got in her way. "Uh, ah— I'm afraid this is... far too dangerous."

The cloaked pony seemed to have prepared for this before dropping down a large amount of coins onto the table. The shopkeeper felt flabbergasted at the large amount of coins on the table.

"This is just...! Are you-" At that moment, he let out a small gasp before feeling something in his chest. Neither did he nor the mysterious pony saw a dark aura swarmed around the center of shopkeeper's body, seemingly shocking the shopkeeper as he felt the dark aura surround him before looking at the cloaked pony, smiling innocently.

"Would you like that gift-wrapped?"

The cloaked pony rolled her eyes before walking over and taking the Alicorn Amulet, leaving the shopkeeper to his own. At that moment, the dark aura came out of him, disappearing out of his body. The shopkeeper then fell on the ground, passing out in the process.

Back outside of the shop, the cloaked pony looked at the Alicorn Amulet in their hooves before they began to cackle.

"Hehe...Now this will be interesting!" The cloaked pony laughed. "With this, I'll bestow my revenge on that Twilight Sparkle and that despicable human freak, Ren Loodan! Now nopony can stop me..."

The cloaked pony removed her hoodie, revealing herself as an old rival of Twilight and Ren's...

"Me! Trixie!" Trixie laughed maniacally, her laugh echoing across the area. 

"Is that so...?"

Trixie stops herself before slowly glancing back to see a masked figure appearing from the shadows. "Are you perhaps thirst for vengeance?"

"Who are you?" Trixie widened her eyes in shock before quickly placing the Alicorn Amulet around her neck as her horn begins glowing, firing a powerful magic beam at Void but he extends out his hand and starts absorbing the attack. "W-What the?! How did you...?!"

"Do you really think such a measly little amulet can harm me?" Void scoffed.

"But...this Alicorn Amulet is said to give magic users greater strength in magic powers!" Trixie exclaimed, looking at the artifact in frustration. "Was I ripped off?!"

"No, it's the real deal. It is true...The Alicorn Amulet does give unicorn users like yourself ultimate power, but however, it cannot affect those with dark magic." Void crossed his arms. "To be more specific, it's creator..."

"C-Creator?!" Trixie shouted. "That's not-"

"Not what? What? Did anypony in this world not tell you anything?" Void grunted. "Did you read anything about those facts about Alicorn Amulet? Well if so, then those who written it don't know anything..."

"W-Why you...!" She fired another beam, however Void walked towards her, not being affected by all her spells. 

"The Alicorn Amulet is after all, my creation from a peculiar little meteorite that I come from...it's a little trick for those to use magic in a little...boost, but unaware that it's controlling them..." Void explained, meeting face-to-face with the terrified magician mare. "...By using their own darkness and every negative feelings to control the user...and you now happened to be another victim of the Alicorn Amulet."

"W-What?" Trixie asked fearfully before she began to feel darkness swarming around her. "W-What are you doing to me...?"

"I am simply helping you...I respect your thirst for vengeance." Void silently chuckled. "But you know? You shouldn't just humiliate and defeat the ones who ruined your life, but you should also...destroy them."

Trixie widened her eyes, feeling more and more darkness consuming as the Alicorn Amulet glowed bright red, slowly controlling its user. 

"Destroy...them..." Trixie mumbled, closing her eyes. "I must...destroy...Twilight Sparkle...and...Ren Loodan..."

"Yes...destroy your enemies...it'll satisfy your own desires and regain what you lost..." Void started laughing, enjoying seeing Trixie embracing the darkness as she reopened her eyes, showing full red they are.

Unbeknownst to them, a figure was watching from the shadows, having seen the whole thing from afar before gasping upon seeing Trixie now being controlled by the Alicorn Amulet and thanks to Void, became a pawn to the darkness.

"This can't be good..."






My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria


The Next Day
Ren's POV

"Don't be scared, little friends. Twilight is wonderful with magic and Ren is a really nice person." 

Yeah, don't worry little guys. I mean, you'll trust us. Hm? Oh hey there, didn't see noticed you all there.

Sorry if I wasn't paying attention. I was just at Flutters' cottage helping tend with the animals with help from my pet dog, Kodi, and my friend, Twilight Sparkle. We were helping with my girlfriend's animals, Fluttershy. 

Did you hear? One of her bunnies had a new litter of baby bunnies, and they're just so adorable.

"Ren, Twilight...please be gentle with them." Fluttershy pleaded before giving us a somewhat stern glare. "And if anything happens them, so help me..."

"Whoa, um, calm down Flutters." I smiled nervously. "Besides, I understand how you feel around these baby bunnies, we promise that we'll do our best to help them out."

"Yeah! Don't worry, Fluttershy!" Kodi agreed, wagging his tail in excitement. "Ren's been taking care of me since I was a little pup so it's no big deal!"

"And don't forget about Twilight." I added with a soft smile. "Twilight's magic has gotten a lot better since she accidentally crushed Spike, Applejack, and I with a giant snowball."

"Of course she's good with magic!" Fluttershy giggled nervously, her smile looking a little...strain. "Twilght's great with magic. I guess I just don't want my little friends to be scared."

"You mean how they're looking scared right now?" Kodi pointed his paw over at the little bunnies, who were shivering in fear.

"Oh, oh, look how scared they are!" Fluttershy cried out.

"I promise, Fluttershy." I reassured with a soft smile. "We aren't gonna hurt them. Don't you trust us?"

"Oh, s-sorry Ren..." Fluttershy coughed sheepishly, hiding her blush. "I-I was just...nervous and so worried about them."

"Well nothing bad will happen to them." Twilight reassured.

"Yeah! After all, we did come here to help you." Kodi added.

"Well...Alright." Fluttershy nodded.

"And I should probably hurry too!" Twilight nodded. "I've been practicing a lot with my magic for when Princess Celestia arrives with the delegates from Saddle Arabia. I can't believe she's trusting me with the entertainment!"

"Saddle...Arabia?" I sweat-dropped, scratching my cheek. Um, just how many places are there with these...names? I mean, I'm not discouraging it, but still...

"Oh...? Ren, I was wondering if you have any magic..." Fluttershy called. "You know, we never did learn much about your power?"

"Well didn't he use his power to restore Sombra with a single tear?" Spike reminded.

"Huh? Oh yeah..." I muttered, tilting my head a bit. "I mean...I didn't know much about it..."

"Huh...Well I was peculiar about your cheeks." Twilight hummed. "We know when Jamie received his Cutie-Marks, he was able to use magic but just use levitation. But judging by what you done to revive Sombra into another form, it must be some sort of healing magic."

"Healing magic?" I asked curiously. "You think I can do that?"

"Well...you could try." Fluttershy insisted before flying over and bringing over a baby rabbit, who looked like he had a small bruise on its leg. "This one gotten a little boo-boo just yesterday and it's steal healing..."

"Hmm..." I looked at the little rabbit, smiling softly. "Hi there little one...it's okay. I'm a very good friend / girlfriend to Flutters, so no worries. Let me just..."

I leaned down at the rabbit before slowly touching its bruised leg...

Okay now Ren...focus...focus...focus....

Five seconds later, a small shining light was brought into the room as it started to dimmed down and...

"It's...gone!" Spike gasped, seeing no bruise on the little guy's leg no more. 

"It actually worked!" Kodi smiled brightly. "Way to go Ren!"

"Thanks you guys..." I blushed, rubbing the back of his head. "But really, I was just helping out."

"Yay!" Fluttershy cheered in her quiet self. "Ren, that was so kind of you to do that to the little one."

Fluttershy kissed me by the nose, causing me to blush more and feel more embarrassed...Well, I guess that proves that I do have some sort of healing magic.

"Wow! That was really amazing!" Spike complimented.

"That was quite impressive Ren..." Twilight nodded in agreement. "If you practice more, then you'll be able to do really well..."

"Thanks you guys." I smiled.

"Yeah!" Kodi jumped on me before he began licking my face, which made the others laughed excitedly, including me. Oh boy...!

THUD!

"Huh?!" Fluttershy cried out. "W-What was that?"

"It sounded like someone crashed somewhere around here..." I looked around before spotting a familiar rainbow tail on the ground. "Rainbow Dash?"

"Ngh...!" Uh oh, sounds like she's stuck in there for good. I better help her! 

Quickly taking out my Hacking Gun, I dialed it to 'Move' and shot a green beam, levitating her out of the hole she made while she had a bit of a derpy look on her face before shaking it off, and gave us a distressful look.

"Twilight, we need you and Ren, fast!" Huh? What's up with her?

"Huh? Rainbow Dash? What's wrong?" I asked in concern, putting her down.

"You guys are not gonna believe who's back!" Rainbow Dash cried out. "It's Trixie, she's back and she's got some weird thing around her neck and she's using it on the others! Come on!"

"Trixie?!" I exclaimed in surprise.

Now that's a name that I never expected to hear again. Trixie was this mage magician who humiliated my friends and someone that me and Twilight defeated and taught her a lesson about respecting others. Well I think I was kinda naive while adjusting to this world, but so far, I think I've started to love this place.

Though the way on how I beaten her in that fight, I think I went too far...Mm...I hope we can forgive each other. 

"Who's Trixie?" Kodi wondered.

"She's this mean mare that Twilight and Ren both defeated! It was awesome, you should have seen it!" Spike laughed.

"Spike, this isn't funny..." I shook my head. "I mean, I didn't mean to humiliate her back then...but we had to do something."

"Well we need to hurry before it's too late." Twilight frowned worriedly.

"Right!" 

Just what is Trixie doing to my friends and the other people in town?





Oh my Celestia...

The moment we arrived in front of Town Hall, we found each of our friends in sort of...weird situations. Pinkie was missing her mouth, making her unable to talk as she just...well actually, I don't really know what she's trying to say.

"Miss Rarity...!" Mason cried out, trying to help her get rid of a tacky busy colored shirt.

"Don't look at me! I'm hideous!" Rarity whined. "These shades of brown should only be used for accents!"

"Hold on, we'll help you Rarity!" Carrie reassured.

"Sergeant Pinkie! Where in blazes is your mouth?!" Skye cried out, but was unable to get an answer from Pinkie. "Come on! Say something! Dammit!"

"H-Hold on tight!" Kaede shouted, trying to pull out two young colts horns' that were connected to each other. Wait, isn't that Snips and Snails? Well...that's awkward. 

"Yow yow yow yow!" Huh? Is that Jack? We all looked over and saw a cloaked figure bouncing Jack up and down like a round ball. Wait a minute...! That horn...!

"Jack?!" Kodi called out in shock.

As the cloaked pony, or Trixie, continued to bounce Jack around by her magic...which was red? Wait a minute...what happened to the light pink?

"Trixie, stop picking on our friends!" Twilight said, glaring at Trixie's direction.

"Yeah." I agreed. "And let Jack go!"

"Hmph!" Trixie scoffed before throwing Jack straight at us.

"Whoa! Knock-back!" I quickly took out my Hacking Gun and shot Knock-back, shooting Jack out of the way.

"YOU DAMN BRAT!" Uh...oops? My bad...

As Jack was flinged in the air thanks to my Knock-back bullet, he was swarmed around in a dark blue magic before we looked over and saw Jamie using his hands to carry Jack over before gently putting him down while he had his notebook open in his other arm.

"Ow..." Jack groaned, shaking his head.

"Are you okay Jack...?" Jamie asked in concern.

"Yeah..." Jack coughed before getting up and letting out a snort. "And...thanks nerd."

"No problem." Jamie nodded with a smile.

"Sorry about that Jack. I just panicked." I frowned sadly.

"It's alright kid..." Jack sighed, nudging me by the shoulder before giving out a nasty glare at Trixie. "So I'm guessing this is the loud mouth brat we heard about?"

"Yeah..." I nodded before looking over at Trixie, who gave us a glare that send chills at my spine. Her eyes...were glowing dark red, like in a creepy way...

"So that's Trixie..." Mason muttered. "Ren, do you know her?"

"Yeah, she basically bragged so much that she made Twilight go crazy about showing off her magic and she hurt my friends." I explained, looking back at the mage and her crazy red eyes. Um, did she always had those?

"Well...Is she that scary looking?" Carrie asked in worried.

"D-Don't be intimidated by her glare, Private Carrie!" Skye reassured before bringing over her chopter. I'll annihilate the enemy into oblivion for messing with my troops!"

"G-Girls, calm down!" Kaede called. "But...Ren, Twilight, was she this scary-looking?"

"No...she wasn't." I shook my head before noticing something around her neck. "Huh? What's that?"

Right there on her neck was a silver pony head shaped neck with wings on the back, but right on the center was a red gem. It was...quite bright and really creepy looking.

"Where did that come from?" I thought aloud, confused by it. However, that gained Trixie's attention as she smiled softly at us, however the smile she gave was something to be terrified of. 

"Ahh, Twilight Sparkle and Ren Loodan. So nice to see you both again." Trixie hissed.

"What do you want Trixie?" Twilight asked, glaring at her rival.

"What I always wanted...Revenge." Trixie hissed. "And I've been practicing this new power on your friends to ready myself against you two."

"Stop it Trixie!" I pleaded. "Leave our friends alone, please!"

"R-Right..." Jamie nodded.

"...Something's wrong." Nicole spoken, staring at Trixie with narrowed eyes. "Her...emotions...they're filled with so much rage, envy, and other types of negative emotion..."

"Just like the Umbrum Army..." Rantaro muttered, tilting his hat a bit before smirking, "Huh...I guess the million dollar answer is that that necklace must be doing that."

"My thoughts exactly." Nicole nodded.

"The necklace?" I asked in confusion. So wait, that necklace is what giving Trixie those creepy eyes and that different magenta magic horn thingy?

"Oh right...I think I've seen that necklace before..." Jamie muttered.

You did? Then...is that thing something we haven't seen before? Just what is that?

"I'm here to challenge Twilight Sparkle and Ren Loodan to a magic dual to see which of one of us is truly the most powerful pony in all of Equestria!" Wait what?! But hold on...! Isn't that kinda going too far just to settle this? I mean, first off, I'm not even interested onto proving that I'm the best at all! What the heck?! "Winner stays and the loser leaves Ponyville...forever!"

"Hold up Trixie!" I called out, forcing her to glare straight at my direction. "This doesn't make any sense! Why are you doing this!?"

"Why...?!" Trixie growled, gritting her teeth. "Because you two humiliated me! After you two showed me up with that Ursa Minor, I became a laughing stock! Everywhere I went I was laughed at and ostracized. I even had to take a job on a rock farm just to earn a living! A rock farm!"

"Wait, seriously?" Rantaro blank-faced at that comment. "A rock farm?"

"I can't say that's not something you hear everyday..." Nicole sighed, shaking her head.

"Wait, why a rock farm?" Skye asked in confusion. "Wouldn't being part of the military or whatever you guys have here be a lot simpler than that?"

"SILENCE!" Trixie exclaimed, shutting my friends up. "Now I want revenge! And I'll just keep casting spells till you agree. Well? What do you say?"

To prove her statement, she fired a red ray at the Golden Oak Library, making the whole thing rise into the air and tipped it upside down, and shake it, making books fall out of the windows, including Owlicious.

"Owlicious!" Jamie cried out in shock before raising his hand, levitating Owlicious over to him before grabbing him by the arms, much to Jamie's relief. "Are you okay?"

"Hoo!" Owlicious nods before nuzzling him, making Jamie chuckle a bit.

"Are you crazy?!" Mason called out in anger. "All of this because Ren and Twilight were teaching you a lesson!"

"SILENCE!" Trixie shouted, creating a powerful shockwave that send us all back, falling on our backs.

"Ngh...talk about holding a grudge." Rantaro groaned.

"Tch...Who is this crazy girl?" Skye pouted. "I swear that I'm gonna make Swiss cheese...!"

"Skye, calm down." I reassured before slowly getting up. "Besides, there's no way we're gonna accept her challenge..."

"No Ren, she's right." Twilight groaned, having Jamie and Spike help her up. "Even if we clean this mess up, she'll just keep casting spells to everypony, even you guys until we accept her offer."

"But still..." I frowned before looking back at Trixie, who continues to fire random magic spells at each pony she sees in a distance.

"Ren..." Huh? I looked back at Fluttershy, who nods with a pleading look. 

Fluttershy...Okay, I understand you guys. As leader of my human friends, I promise that I wouldn't let them down.

"Alright then, let's get this over with." Twilight sighed before she started to approach Trixie, "Alright Trixie, I accept your challenge."

"Same here." I agreed, taking out my Hacking Gun. "We won't let you harm anypony nor our friends anymore!"

"Ren, be careful!" Carrie shouted in worried.

"Don't worry Corporeal Loodan!" Skye saluted. "We'll heroically...stepped aside from you guys' battle."

Um...okay? Thank you?

"Hmph!" Trixie smirked, walking towards us. "Very well, but remember; If you two win, I won't set hoof in Ponyville again. But if you two lose...You're the ones banished from this one-horse town!"

"Alright then, bring it on Trixie!" I exclaimed with a determined look, aiming my gun at her.

"Whenever you're ready, Trixie..." Twilight stood in a battle pose, her horn glowing. "Let's duel!"

"Very well..." Trixie makes a menacing smirk. "Let's begin...NOW!"

Trixie fired a magic beam straight at us, which me and Twilight dodged before it hit both Snips and Snails.

"AAHHHHH!" Oh crap-baskets! Are they alright?! 

Suddenly, a big puffy smoke cleared around the two till it cleared up and revealed two small baby foals...Wait a minute...

"Did they just...?!" I gasped, widening my eyes a bit upon seeing them.

"They've been turned into babies?!" Kaede exclaimed in shock.

"An age spell?!" Twilight widened hey eyes in horror. "But...There's no way you can do an age spell, that's only for the highest-level unicorn mages!"

"Give up, Twilight?" Trixie asked with a confident smile.

Twilight gave her a deadpanned look before taking a deep breath and wrapped both Snips and Snails in an aura and attempted to turn them back. 

"Heh, in that case..." Trixie fired a powerful red beam straight at her.

"Twilight, look out!" I quickly got in the air before firing a 'Break' bullet straight at it, but it immediately gotten destroyed in an moment, resulting in a small explosion.

"Crap-baskets!" I cried out, skidding back along with Twilight.

"AHH!" Due to the explosion, Twilight lost her focus before accidentally dropping the foal versions of Snips and Snails, which I managed to catch before they landed on the ground.

"What the hell?!" Jack exclaimed.

"Hey, that's cheating!" Skye clenched her fists, glaring at Trixie.

"If those two are so good, then they wouldn't mind a little distraction." Trixie gloated before firing another red beam straight at us. 

"Twilight, watch out!" I pushed her out of the way while I side-stepped out of the way before throwing the babies over to Fluttershy, who successfully caught them in time. "Thanks Flutters!"

"You're welcome." Fluttershy smiled softly.

"Just die!" Trixie yelled out before firing more magic beams at us. I quickly dodged before changing the dial before shooting another Truth Bullet at her.

"Dance!" This will stopped her! I mean, I did it before with her, I can do it again!

"Dance to this!" Trixie fired a similar beam to my 'Dance' bullet, causing the two to collide and create a small shockwave, blowing me a bit.

"W-Whoa!" I shrieked, nearly tripped while surprised by that powerful attack. Just how is she getting so strong?! Unless...it's that amulet she's wearing!

"How do you like this?" Trixie smirked, firing another beam straight at us.

"Watch out!" I quickly covered myself with my arms till a beam of magic came in and countered Trixie's magic.

"What the?" Trixie blinked. 

"Stop it...!" We all turned to Jamie, who used his magic powers to counter it.

Trixie growled, "This doesn't involve you, shrimp."

"Hey, nobody calls the nerd, shrimp but me!" Jack exclaimed.

Trixie scoffed, "Oh please, chubby." A tick mark came on Jack's head.

Oh boy... here we go.

"Ooh, you're gonna get it now." Jack growled, he was about to rush Trixie but Mason held him back, "Jack, don't who knows what she'll do to you!"

"Well she won't know what hit her in five seconds!" Jack yelled out back at him.

"Psst, Ren...!" Twilight whispered to me, grabbing my attention. "Don't worry! I'll try and keep her busy! You try and fire a powerful bullet attack."

"I'll try...!" I nodded before Twilight fired another beam at her, which Trixie retaliated by firing another beam at her. I quickly set the dial over to 'Move' before noticing an empty carriage cart, prompting me to come up with an idea.

Although, I don't want hurt her, but it's the only way!

While Trixie and Twilight were still duking it out, I used 'Move' and levitated the carriage cart and threw it at her.

"What the?!" Trixie widened her eyes before it crashed into her.

"Sorry...!" I apologized.

"Don't apologize to your opponent!" Skye screamed, flailing her arms around. "She's the enemy!"

I sweat-dropped at Skye, "Right..."

Heh heh, I forgot about that, but still...

Suddenly...

The cart suddenly glowed and burst into pieces and Trixie was seen steaming mad. "Oh boy!" i whimpered.

"You'll pay for that!" Trixie fired a blast at me, but I countered with, "Break!" The two collided and made a small explosion.

"W-Whoa!" I winced, skidding back from the attack.

"Trixie! Stop this!" Twilight fired multiple beams of magic at Trixie, which she protected herself in a bubble shield. Twilight kept attacking till she slowly started to grow tired.

"Looks like Trixie has secured her win." Trixie before firing her red magic beam at Twilight, taking her down.

"Twilight!" I cried out, rushing over to her till Trixie fired another beam at me. "Break!"

I used 'Break' and destroyed the beam before helping Twilight up.

"Ngh...I'm almost running out of Mana..." Twilight groaned, rubbing her head.

Upon hearing that, Trixie started laughing maniacally and hissed, "Looks like I win, Twilight." 

"No, it's not over yet." I stated, helping her get up and taking out my Hacking Gun. "I'm still standing."

"Oh, but I'm afraid that you're gonna have to forfeit." Trixie smirked, much to my confusion. Why would I-

"AAH!" I looked and saw Kodi and Spike being grabbed by a giant hand, red in color.

"Kodi! Spike!" I cried out in shock.

"Now listen to what I have to say..." Trixie smirks. "If you forfeit, I'll let them go and you two will be banished out of Ponyville forever. If you don't...then you'll know what happens.

I can't believe this! She's totally cheating right here! She's willing to use both Kodi and Spike as a way to convince me! But she's right...I can't let her do this...She'll...

I looked at Kodi and Spike who were giving me signs not to give in to her. But I couldn't live with myself if anything happened to them because of me.

"...I quit." I sighed, putting away my Hacking Gun.

"Ren no!" Kodi called.

"Good choice." Trixie smirked. The large hand disappeared and Kodi and Spike came over along with the others.

"And now it's time for you both to leave Ponyville...forever!" Trixie exclaimed, wrapping me and Twilight in her magic aura.

"That's enough Trixie!" Applejack exclaimed.

"You've proved your point, but you can't possibly expect Twilight and Ren to leave Ponyville." Rarity added.

"Yeah, you maggot!" Skye added, glaring hard at them.

"You fools!" Trixie cackled. "They're already gone!" 

"What?!" Kaede and Fluttershy gasped before the gang turned around and watched me and Twilight getting thrown out high into the sky.

I can't believe it...I lost...I really don't mind to be honest...but now we'll be banished out of town...

......Hm? Uh, are we outside of Ponyville or...? What the?

In just a moment, me and Twilight stopped mid-air before settling down on the ground. Hey, this isn't Trixie's aura...it's light pink. So whose aura is this?

"Hey, who did that?!" Trixie growled, seeing what happened.

"I did!" Huh? Who said who?

We noticed the crowd moving out of the way, revealing another cloaked pony. Although, we didn't see their face and all you could see was their white hooves and white horn, meaning that they were a unicorn. Although, that voice...it almost sounded like a girl, and...it sounded like a familiar Disney star...

"Huh?" Kodi blinked. "Another unicorn?"

"Whoa..." I muttered, looking over at the pony. "Thank you, um, ma'am..."

Who is this? I mean, she overcame Trixie's new power....That's really shocking-

"Ugh..." What? What's wrong...? My head...I feel as though...Wait...have I...seen this girl before...?

Trixie growled at the unicorn pony, "How dare you interfere with me?!"

She blasted a beam at the unicorn but then suddenly, a white tiger came in front of her and absorbed the blast!

"The hell?!" Jack widened his eyes before laying his eyes at the girl in the hood, and then started groaning along with the others.

"What in the world is going on with my head?" Skye groaned. "I call blasphemy on this...!"

It's happening to the nine of us...this is definitely not a coincidence...it's like...we've seen her before...

"Grrrr..." Trixie started growling angrily at the pony, feeling frustrated that her magic was counteracted by her.

"Having great power is one thing, but how you use it is quite another." The unicorn said.

However, Trixie scoffed at that claim and replied, "Nobody has greater power than me."

To prove her point, she shot another beam but the unicorn made a barrier around her and the blast bounced by off of the shield and into the sky.

"Whoa...!" We all blinked in awe by how quickly the cloaked unicorn blocked it.

"How the hell did she do that?" Jack whispered over to me, which I shrugged and shook my head before we continued to watch.

"Oh, so you think you're so powerful then how about you and I have a magic duel. Same rules as before. Loser leaves Ponyville forever!" Trixie suggested with a cocky grin.

"...Deal!" The unicorn nodded, shocking us all.

"Hmph. Good." Trixie cackled, walking off. "Prepare to lose."

Once Trixie was gone out of sight, we all turned over to the cloaked unicorn and her white tiger before we walked over to her. 

"Hey wait!" I called her over. "Um, excuse me? Um, please be careful. I don't want you to get hurt."

"Don't worry, I'll be fine, but if you wanna know more. Go to the Golden Oak Library. There all will be explained." She explained before she walked away with her tiger companion.

"Okay...?" I muttered confusedly, tilting my head a bit.

"Wonder what's going on? Who was that?!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

"...I don't know...but she's something..." Mason muttered, placing a hand on his forehead. "And I don't know why...but I get this feeling inside me like...I know her."

"Really?! Me too?!" I asked in surprise before looking back where that cloaked unicorn and her white tiger friend last stood. "One look at her, and I can tell...I felt this strange feeling inside my heart like...I knew her."

"Well if she knows what's going on with Trixie then we better go to the library." Twilight suggested.

"She's right. She seems to know more than she's letting on." Nicole stated.

"Hm...Yeah..." Rantaro nodded before turning to me. 

"Y-Yeah...Come on, let's get over to the library before we see their match." I nodded before we began making our way to the ruined Golden Oak Library to learn much about what's going on. It looked a bit...out of touch considering Trixie shook that place over and over again.

"The library..." Jamie frowned sadly. "It looks like after this, we have a lot of cleaning up to do..."

"Yeah..." I nodded with a sad frown. "Listen you guys, I'm really sorry for what happened...even you Spike and Kodi. I really let you guys down."

"It's okay Ren, there's no need to worry!" Spike reassured.

"Yeah!" Kodi smiled before licking my face. "You had no choice thanks to Trixie!"

"Private Kodiak's right!" Skye nodded. "You were forced to surrender thanks to that no good mean old witch!"

"You mean mage?" Applejack rose a brow.

"Shut up, Private Applejack, I meant what I said!" Skye rolled her eyes. "Now come on, let's find out what this unicorn wants. Besides, we need answers on our missing memories!"

"Yeah, that is true..." I nodded before softly smiling down at my pet dog and best friend. "Thank you Kodiak."

"No problem Ren!" Kodi smiled before we headed inside of the library, finding the unicorn mage and her tiger inside.

"Ah, I've seen you have come." She said.

"Yes, and let met be the first to tell you cannot beat her." Mason stated, crossing his arms. "Did you see what she did to Rarity, Jack, and some of the other folks."

"Not to mention Snips and Snails, she turned them into babies!" Twilight informed. "Only high level unicorns can do that kind of magic! How could she do it?"

"Well she's obviously not a high-level unicorn. So how could she do those spells?" Kaede wondered.

"It's that necklace around her neck." The unicorn said. "Or should I say the Alicorn Amulet!"

"WHAT?!" Jamie and Twilight gasped in shock. "How did she get that?!"

"What is the Alicorn Amulet?" Nicole questioned.

"It's a magical artifact that bestows the pony whose wearing to be bless with untold powers, but it corrupts the user the more times the pony uses it." The unicorn explained. "But...if she keeps using it, she'll simply be consumed by the darkness radiating by it, and...she'll be nothing..."

"It's true. I read about it one of the books." Jamie nodded. "I-It's a real problem if we don't do something to prevent that!"

"So that explains why her magic aura was red instead of blue." I widened my eyes a bit, realizing about that fact.

"So all we have to do is take it off, easy." Rantaro shrugged, however the unicorn shook her head and retorted his claim.

"You can't. The only pony who can take it off is Trixie due to the magical lock on it." 

"She's right about that too..." Jamie frowned.

"Thanks a lot for reminding us." Jack scoffed, punching him in the shoulder.

"O-Ow...I-I'm sorry." Jamie apologized.

"Great, now what?!" Rainbow huffed. "With those kinds of spells, you won't stand a chance against her!"

"maybe you should forfeit?" Fluttershly meekly suggested, only to receive from both Jack and Rainbow Dash. "N-Never mind..."

"I'm not backing down. I'm going to the magic duel." The unicorn declared determinedly.

"But you can't beat her horn to horn." Twilight said, but only to receive a shaking head from her.

"I won't because of this." She opens up her cloak, revealing a golden necklace with a rainbow colored heart gemstone in the center. 

Huh, strange...it sorta reminds me of the Elements of Harmony, but that's impossible, right?

"Woah..." We all muttered in awe.

"This is my Amulet of Hope. It's just as powerful as the Alicorn Amulet." She explained to us.

"Amulet of...Hope?" I asked in confusion. Now that's something that you wouldn't hear everyday.

"You seem pretty confident that you can take her down, eh?" Rantaro joked.

"I am confident in my abilities because I believe in myself. The opponents' overconfidence will be her downfall in this duel."

Upon answering him back, Rantaro went silent and just stared at her with a serious look. Nicole did the same and looked directly at the cloaked unicorn's face, however, most of her face was covered by the hoodie.

"Well either way, be careful." I warned.

"Yeah, that enemy is quite tricky." Skye added. "We have to do something! Hmm, I could trick her with a disguise."

Pinkie nodded eagerly at that while the rest of us stared at them in a deadpanned manner.

"And how will a disguise even work?" Jack asked with a deadpanned look.

"To fool the enemy, duh!" Skye smirked. "I'll be a gal playing a gal disguise as another gal...!"

Pinkie hummed and nodded happily, trying to say but nothing came out because she had no mouth.

"...Yeah no." Rantaro rolled his eyes.

"Don't worry, I have many tricks as well. More than what your eyes can see." The unicorn said. 

Well...if she says that it that easily, then I guess I can trust her.

"Oh, we never got your name uh, ma'am." I scratched my cheek.

"The name is Sarah. Sarah Gem." The unicorn introduced herself. "And this." She turned to her white tiger, "Is Snowflake, my best friend." The white tiger nuzzled her while purring.

"Sarah...Gem..." I muttered, frowning in confusion.

Why have this strange feeling...that I've heard her name somewhere? Just who is she?

"Hey Sarah...um...have we...met...?" I asked in confusion, but the cloaked unicorn went silent. "Sarah...?"

"No, we haven't met before." She said simply.

"Oh...Okay..." Then why do I have this uneasy feeling that we have?

“Now its time for the magic duel.” Sarah said. “Come along Snowflake.” Her tiger purred and followed her outside.

"Hmm..." I hummed, wondering how this will go. But...I know that she can do that.

Wait, I do? Well maybe it's my heart telling me that she can do it. Although, how can I be so sure?

"...." Nicole watches Sarah and her pet tiger take their leave. "Hmm...Sarah Gem..."

I wonder much about her...I just wonder much about who she is...Just who is Sarah Gem?




Later

The time has come. The battle between Trixie and Sarah Gem was about to commence. We all were watching from the sidelines, right over the town hall where Trixie was, sitting in her own makeshift throne while some ponies, including Snips and Snails, were feeding her grapes while also painting a portrait of her.

"Talk about being arrogant." Kodi whimpered.

"Tell me about it." Skye rolled her eyes. "What an idiot..."

"Ah...you have arrived." Trixie spotted Sarah and her pet tiger walking towards her. "I was awaiting for your arrival..."

"Same here." Sarah said while her white tiger growls at them.

"Well...Since you're here, allow me to give you the same rules that I gave Twilight Sparkle and Ren Loodan when you interrupted our earlier fight." Trixie smirked.


"I'm well aware of the rules. If I lose, I'll leave Ponyville forever, but if I win, you leave Ponyville forever." Sarah stated.

"Heh, glad to see your little brain can hold that info." Trixie chuckled.

"And also, I know that you're using the Alicorn Amulet." Sarah stated firmly, shocking Trixie as she tries to act innocent.

"W-What?" Trixie asked.

"Trixie...You need to take that off. It's only controlling you, and eventually, your entire existence will be nothing but a shadow." Sarah warned, but Trixie shook her head before glaring at her.

"Enough! I don't want to hear it! Let's get this magic duel started!" Trixie then turns to Snips and Snails before shouting out their names. "SNIPS! SNAILS!"

"W-W-What is it, all great and powerful Trixie?" Snips asked fearfully.

Trixie clears her throat before addressing over to Sarah, "Let's start with a simple age spell shall we?"

"Let's." Sarah nodded.

To demonstrate, Trixie began performing her age spell by shooting a beam of magic straight at the two small fillies admirers of hers, poofing them into small foals.

"Ha! Top that!" Trixie smirked arrogantly.

"Age spell?" Carrie asked curiously. "There's something like that?"

"Yes," Twilight nodded. "But only high-level unicorn mages and wizards can do that."

Hmm...Well I guess you're right. But can Sarah do that?

"Like this? Snowflake." Hm? Wait, is she actually gonna do it...?

Her tiger stepped in front of her and she blasted it with her magic...changing it into a cub?!

"What?" Twilight blinked.

"The hell?" Jack rose a brow. "D-Did she actually...?"

"Whoa!" I exclaimed in shock. "She actually done it?!"

Trixie was even caught off-guard, jaw-dropping at the sight. Sarah then turned Snowflake back into a fully grown tiger and then fired at the two foals, turning Snips and Snails back to their original selves too. The blue mage shook off the shock before glaring angrily at Snowflake.

"So you can do age spells. Let's see how you do with the weather?" She taunted before using her amulet and it allowed her to create a rain cloud in the middle of town.

Sarah used her magic and her Amulet to make a thunder and lightning cloud appear and it shot small small lightning bolts out of it along with some wind gusts.

"Cool..." Carrie and Skye muttered in awe.

"Hmm..." Nicole hummed, staring at Sarah.

Wow....Sarah's getting really good at this. She's surpassing Trixie by every minute she casts a spell.

I mean, look at Trixie right now, she's just speechless just like I am right now. Not too long that the blue mare started growling angrily at Sarah, twitching her right eye. 

Oh boy, that can't be good.

"Sarah is really good..." Fluttershy muttered, covering her mouth in surprise. "I never seen anypony do that before..."

"Mm-hmm..." I couldn't help but nodded in agreement there. Just who is this Sarah Gem?

Suddenly, Trixie's horn started to glow really red, and her eyes were glowing dark red out of insanity and anger!

"Fine then, try this!" She cried out and used her magic to create a large poof of red, and soon cleared up to reveal a large red hydra about fifty feet tall and sixty feet long! Oh my god! That thing almost looks like the hydra back when Twilight was trying to understand Pinkie Pie. She made it appear right in front of us?!

"Oh no!" Jamie cried.

"What the hell is that?!" Jack exclaimed.

"Well...we're boned." Rantaro bluntly said, earning a sweat-drop from me. Yeah, we kinda are dude.

"Hahaha! Try and defeat this!" Trixie laughed maniacally.

"Are you insane?!" Kaede exclaimed. "Nobody has said anything about summoning any creatures!"

"Trixie! Stop this at once!" Twilight demanded. "Right now, this has gone too far!"

Upon hearing our protest, Trixie's eyes flowed red before giving us a dirty look and shouted "NEVER!"

Whoa, jeez! Isn't she going too insane right now?!

"I'll prove I'm the most powerful unicorn and I won't let anypony else stand in my way!" She turned her attention towards the hydra. "Destroy that cloaked unicorn!"

What?! Oh no! Sarah's in trouble!

The hydra looked down at Sarah and growled at her.

"Sarah, run!" I called, trying to make run before it was too late.

"Get out of there!" Rainbow added. 

However, Sarah didn't move a muscle at all and just stood there....till she took out something from her cloak.

Huh? Is that a...card? And does it have a...Styracosaurs on it? Yeah, that's definitely it. But why would she have that? Wait a minute...how does she have it? Have I seen something like that before?

"POWER!" Sarah cried out, pressing onto her amulet before it started glowing, shooting out and unveiling some sort of device in the shape of an arm bracer, attaching to Sarah's right foreleg, before she swiping the card through the mechanical bracer as it began glowing yellow and soon , the card changed into a fully sized Styracosaurs! 

"Holy crap baskets!" I cried out in shock.

"What?! How is that even possible?!" Jamie added.

Both Nicole and Rantaro widened their eyes in shock, unable to process what was right in front of them.

"What the hay is that thing?" Applejack asked.

"A Styracosaurs. An extinct horned dinosaur from our world." Jamie explained before looking back at Sarah and the newly appeared Styracosaurs. 

"Ready Blitz?" Sarah asked, which Blitz roared loudly and charged at the Hydra. Wait, did she just called that dinosaur 'Blitz'? Where have I heard that name before?

BAM!

Whoa! That's gotta leave a mark! In case you guys didn't see, the dinosaur that's named 'Blitz' rammed the Hydra in the stomach with his long hose horn. The Hydra roared in pain before smacked in the face with its tail. 

"What?! No no no no! You stupid...!" Trixie hissed before shouting, "BLAST IT OR ELSE!"

The Hydra shook off the pain before launching red beams from each of its heads, and made contact with Blitz...However....

"W-What?!" We all gawked in shock upon seeing the beams barely fazing Blitz, deflecting off of its frill and into the air!

"It deflected the magic?!" Twilight widened her eyes in shock.

"Well I'll be." Applejack gasped in awe.

"Tell me about it! What the heck is going on?!" Skye exclaimed.

"Grrr...!" Uh oh, I don't like that twitchy look she's giving us. "HIT HIM AGAIN! AGAIN! AGAIN! AGAIN!"

The Hydra let out a monstrous roar, scaring off some of the folks who were witnessing this battle, as the four headed beast charged straight at Blitz till the Styracosaurs stepped out of the way, and used his horn to lift the Hydra into the air.

"What the fudge?" Jack widened his eyes. "Okay, now that's strong..."

"I honestly don't know what's happening anymore..." Mason groaned, face-palming. 

Five seconds late, the hydra started falling back down before crashing onto the ground, fully unconscious.

"Now let's finish this Blitz." Sarah called. "Lightning Spear!"

Sarah's amulet began glowing, and so was Blitz with sparkling electricity all around his body. He charged the Hydra and struck it down. Leaping into the air with the hydra on ya horns and sword of electricity went right though it and the hydra roared in pain.

"Holy crap!" Skye exclaimed in awe. Blitz landed on its feet while the hydra crashed down and sparked with electricity before slowly began disappearing into magical sparkle dust.

“She did it!” Spike smiled brightly, pumping his fist in the air.

"Hooray!" Kodiak barked happily. Soon, the crowd came out of their hiding places before they all began cheering and hooting happily, finally seeing everything over. 

Blitz came over and nuzzled Sarah, “Good job, Blitz.” Then she turned to Trixie. “I told you your overconfidence would be your downfall.”

Trixie twitched her eyes angrily before smirking devilishly at her. Huh? What is she doing...?

“And your downfall...will be right now!” She then took the Alicorn Amulet off her neck, dropping it off her neck before swiping the other Amulet off of Sarah’s neck! “Once I wear this Amulet, I’ll become the most powerful unicorn in all of Equestria! Hahah!” She removed the Alicorn amulet and placed on Sarah’s... but when she tried to use its powers nothing happened. “What? What’s the meaning of this?”

“Did I forget to mention that my Amulet has a magical lock so only I can unlock its powers and use them.” Sarah informed.

Woah. Now that’s something I did not expect. Holy cow, that's...actually pretty impressive and clever at the same time.

Sarah then took the two Amulets in her magic and placed her own amulet back on her neck before saying, “I’ll be taking this and putting it into hidings.”

Sarah glared down at the Alicorn Amulet, feeling upset seeing it. Huh...wonder what's up with her?

Soon, her Amulet glowed and Blitz started glowing, and eventually...it reverted to a...

"Aww...!" 

It's a baby...dinosaur now? Wow...that's something that you wouldn't see everyday. Kaede, Carrie, Skye, Rarity, and Pinkie all gushed happily at the sight of it. The baby dinosaur, Blitz, tilted its head and looked around before Sarah picked him up and nuzzled his nose, making it roar happily. 

The crowd all started cheering for Sarah, each thanking her for what she done for them while the rest of us stood there in shock.

"...What just happened?" Jamie asked.

"I-I...really don't know, Jamie." Mason groaned, face-palming.

Well I for one am completely amazed and shocked at the power she had. Just what else does she have? Although...that name of her dinosaur...

"Blitz...?" I muttered, crossing my arms. Now that's a name that I swear that I've heard about. Blitz...Blitz...Blitz.....! Wait a minute!

"Hey wait! Blitz?! As in...Blitz...from Dino King?!" I exclaimed in shock."Dino King?!" Skye exclaimed in shock. "Oh my god! You watch that anime too! I love it!"

"Yeah! Same here!" I nodded before turning to Sarah. "And the only you can summon him if you had a Dino Bracer! And that right there is an actual Dino Bracer! Cool!"

"Wait...this Blitz character is that baby dinousaur?" Mason questioned.

"And Dino King...is an anime...?" Kaede asked in confusion. "And you've seen it too, Skye?"

"C-Course I have Private Ross! W-What do you take me for?!" Skye exclaimed, pouting. "Anime is one of my favorite things, okay?!"

"Okay?" Kaede sweat-dropped.

"Hey wait!" I rushed over to Sarah. "Hey, how...did you get that? I mean, that only exists in anime...Can you tell me please?"

"That is something that refers to my past." Sarah said. "And Blitz isn't the only dinosaur I have."

"You have more?!" We all exclaimed in shock, while Sarah nodded.

"Can you show us please?" Carrie asked curiously.

"Hmm..." Sarah thought for a while before nodding, "Alright then."

She then revealed her Dino Bracer as several cards came out of her cloak, and were slashed through the red bracer, revealing more dinosaurs in small baby forms, just like Blitz!

"Amazing! A Fukuisaurus! Amargasaurus! Acrocanthasaurus! Stegosaurus! Pachycephlasaurus! Deinonychus! And an Allosaurus!” Jamie exclaimed with his eyes sparking. All the ponies were in awe and chartered amazing themselves. I noticed the Deinonychus and Pachycephlasaurus had a rainbow glow to them. The Pachycephlasaurs’ head was glowing in the rainbow colors while the Deinonychus had the glow all over their bodies. I wonder why?

"So these critters won't harm anyone right?" Applejack asked.

“No, they’re my friends and they know better don’t you?” Sarah asked, the dinosaurs nodded in agreement.

“Amazing!” I squealed while Skye’s eyes were glittering with wonder before they exclaimed, "Oh gods, this is just amazing! What's next? Kung Fu Panda coming to life?"

"Whoa! You've seen that too?!" I exclaimed in surprise. "Awesome!"

"I know right?!" Skye laughed.

“Anyway..." Kaede cleared her throat, looking down at the chibi dinosaurs. "And they all have a baby form?” Kaede asked.

"It’s called Chibi form and yes." Sarah nodded before she pressed the button on her Dino Bracer and the dinosaurs turned into cards and then Sarah swiped the cards gain and the dinos were turned into their chibi forms.

"They are so cute." Fluttershy cooed and the sight of them.

The chibi dinosaurs all have tiny roars, each cooing at us. Man, this is just awesome seeing the real thing! Who is she? Does she have the ability to bring anime to life?!

"T-This...This can't be?!" Huh? Oh right! Trixie! I forgot that she was standing there. "You...! You...!! You...!!!"

"Trixie..." Twilight narrowed her eyes at her. "That's enough. Sarah here defeated you in combat, so you should stop while you have the point."

"But I....I....!" Trixie twitched her eyes. "I'm supposed to be the greatest! And don't you even dare talk to me! You are nothing but a single-rate Unicorn! You didn't beat me! You didn't prove anything at all! You didn't learn anything! Neither that stupid human  freak, Ren Loodan!"

"She's right..." Twilight muttered, looking down sadly.

I couldn't help but frown at that too. I lost because I forfeited because she tried to hurt Kodi and Spike...

"That's not true." Sarah stepped over and stood by me and Twilight's side, placing a hoof on her shoulder while smiling softly at the two of us. "While it is true that both Twilight and Ren lost to you, they at least fought for their friends to end their madness. They used their powers as a way to protect their friends, that's what it means to having power. Although, you wouldn't know about using your power because you abused it Trixie...After all, the Alicorn Amulet is said to control its user through its darkness...Everything you spouted from how you felt...because you just wanted attention, right? That's what you mostly desire, right?"

Trixie widened her eyes in shock before looking away, darkening her face.

"I thought so..." Sarah frowned. "Trixie...Were you scared of being lonely?"

"...S-So what?! Why do you care?!" Trixie cried out.

"Trixie..." Twilight muttered, feeling bad for her.

"Trixie, we're just concerned for you." I spoken, giving her a soft smile. "I can understand your anger, but that doesn't mean you should just keep being boastful and rude and snarky and hurt our friends. Revenge is never gonna solve your problems, the best way is to let it go...and try again. After all, there's nothing wrong on having a second chance, that I can understand...It's okay to make friends. Like Princess Celestia said, always believe in the Magic of Friendship."

"....." Trixie doesn't even say anything back to me, but instead, she looks away sadly before muttering, "Maybe..."

Trixie then runs off while me and Twilight looked at each other in worried. 

Trixie...I think I'm beginning to understand you now than we last met. Is that why you were acting like that?

“Humph. Good riddance.” Jack grinned. “I hope we don’t have to deal with her again.”

Well I didn’t really want to never see her again. I just wanted to help her change.... if I could.

"Jack!" Kaede pouted.

"That's really mean!" Carrie added.

"So what? Doesn't matter." Jack rolled her eyes. "That crazy pony had it coming. Serves her right for making me into a bouncy ball."

Mason sighed before whacking Jack in the head with his pole.

"That's enough out of your mouth before you spit out more nonsense." Mason sighed. 

"OW! Stupid kid!" Jack growled, trying to punch him till Mason dodged it. "Hey!"

"Enough you two!" Rarity gave the two a stern glare, forcing the two to stop before looking away in annoyance.

"Fine..." The two sighed in unison.

“So Sarah, where are you going to stay?” Twilight asked. "You know, since you're new around here?"

“Snowflake and I will just sleep in the forest nearby.” Sarah said, which shocked all of us.

Rarity gasped in horror, “You sleep in the forest?!”

Sarah nodded, “I’ve been doing that since day one.”

That caused me to jaw dropped. Sarah has been sleeping in the forest for who knows how long yet she doesn’t look like the forest-sleeper type?!

“That simply won’t do. You and your friends need a proper place to stay.” Rarity said.

“You can stay with us in the home-ship.” Kaede offered.

“I don’t wanna be a burden on any of you.” Sarah stated.

“You won’t be a burden. You, Snowflake and your dinos deserve it.” Mason said. “Especially after dealing with Trixie.”

“Umm... well.. alright I’ll stay with you.”

“Great.” I said with a smile. “Oh and Sarah.”

“Hmm?”

“Can you...uh, take your hood down so we can see your face? You haven’t really shown us what you look like.”

“Oh, I guess it would be okay.” She pulled down her hood to show us her white face and black mane with a rainbow stripe in the center and her Amulet of Hope on her neck. “Woah...” the Mane 6 gasped.

“You look gorgeous, darling.” Rarity commented.

“Thanks.” Sarah said.

“So now what?” Spike asked.

“Well we can start by fixing the damage Trixie made around town.” Twilight said as she looked at some damaged buildings from the battle.

“I’ll help too.” Sarah suggested, but Rarity interrupted her.

“No no no, you’ve already done enough darling. We’ll handle the rest while you go to the home shop with Ren and the others.” Rarity reassured.

“Are you sure?” Sarah asked as Rarity nodded and said, “Alright if that’s what you want.”

“Come on Sarah, let’s get the home ship and find you a place to stay.” I said with a soft smile.

Sarah nodded and followed us to the home ship with her chibi dinosaurs following us.

"Is her dinosaurs literally walking with her?" Jack asked. 

"Apparently so." Rantaro sighed. "Although...I never thought to see living dinosaurs come to life."

Me too...Is that crazy or what?

"...." Nicole stares at Sarah for a while, along with Rantaro. Eventually, we followed her over and started walking by with her.

"So Sarah...about your past...you said that you got that thing from the past? Like it was made?" Jamie questioned. "Ren mentioned it's from an anime, but I highly doubt it's possible to replicate the features of these kind of creatures and such...am I wrong?"

"Well each dinosaurs is combined with a natural Element. For Blitz, it's lighting. Blossom, it's grass. Blaze, it's fire. Aqua, it's water. Quake, it's earth and for Deino, Dana, Sue, and Pachy, it's light. The Dino Bracer has six stones inside that hold the spirits of the dinosaurs allowing their cards to be activated." Sarah explained, which Jamie nodded before copying them down in his book.

"Six stones..." Jamie muttered.

"Huh...that's really...cool." I complimented. "So uh, do you mean...? I mean, how...could you possibly get a real Dino Bracer?"

"Like I said, it was a gift from my past." Sarah stated, looking at her bracer before it slowly started glowing and disappeared with her Amulet glowing as well the moment the Dino Bracer glowed. Huh...did her Amulet managed to bring that to life or something?

Her White Tiger purred and nuzzled her face, which earned a soft smile from Sarah's face before she rubbed its head. 

"So how'd you come across a white tiger?" Jamie asked. "They're extremely rare in the wild."

"I found her while I was on my travels." Sarah replied with a soft smile.

"Travels?" I asked.

"Snowflake and I had our fair share of travels before we came here to Ponyville." Sarah chuckled, smiling.

"You mean around Equestria?" Mason questioned, crossing his arms.

"And beyong as well." Sarah nodded, surprising me a bit.

Whoa...she and her tiger friend traveled all over Equestria and beyond?! That's amazing!

"That's pretty impressive." Mason commented.

"Tell me about it! You're totally strong!" Skye smiled. "We need to totally hang out a lot! Come on, can't we do that?!"

"Hmm...I guess." Sarah shrugged.

"Yeah." Kaede added before hearing her chibi dinosaurs giving out some roars at us before Blitz came up to me.

"Aww...hi little fella." I picked him up and brought him to my face. Whoa...this is amazing...it's like I'm actually touching the real thing. This is just so...

"I wouldn't do that." Sarah warned.

"Huh? Why not?" I asked. 

Apparently...the moment I did asked that...the answer was quite obvious. 

CHOMP!

"OW!" Ow ow ow! That really hurt! Apparently, Blitz munched onto my nose, biting real hard on it. 

"Blitz loves to munch on anything he can get his teeth on." Sarah giggled, smiling at my misfortune.

Oh right...I remembered back on the anime that Blitz really loved to do that to me.

"Heh, sucks to be you." Rantaro snorted, putting his hands on his pockets.

"Y-Yeah...Heh heh...I honestly can't believe I'm actually touching a creature that you would see in an old anime." I smiled softly before managing to get Blitz off my nose. "Huh...I guess there's a lot about Equestria than you would expect."

"Indeed there is." Sarah agreed.

"Yeah...but the main mystery is how we got here...and why we were in those pods...?" Ren muttered.

"You'll find the answer to what you seek...in time." Huh? What?

"What do you mean?" Nicole questioned suspiciously, narrowing her eyes at Sarah.

"The answers you seek will be revealed one at a time and once they are all discovered, the answer will be clear." Sarah added.

"I see..." I nodded.

"But..." Huh? I noticed a small frown on her face. "It's best if you all don't find out soon enough...because...the truth...it could be painful..."

"What?" Skye asked, placing her hands on her hips. "What'cha talking about?"

"Sometimes, the truth can be painful once it is revealed and how you deal with it will be vital." Sarah repeated.

"Huh?" I muttered in confusion, wondering what she meant by that.

"Do you...know something kid?" Jack asked.

"I know many things." Sarah said. "But all that will not be revealed right now."

"What do you mean?" Mason asked in confusion. "I'm quite confuse on what do you mean by that statement."

“I mean you will find the answers but you will need time to put the pieces together to figure of what and why this happened to you all.” Sarah explained.

"Why the hell won't you frigging tell us?!" Jack exclaimed.

"If you do know, won't you tell us?!" Kaede asked, feeling alarmed.

“It will be better if you discover them on your own.” Sarah stated to us, upsetting a few of us. Wait, if she knows about our pasts, why can't she even tell us?! I mean...!

"But why not?" Kodi whined. "Don't you think you should tell us?" Kodi whined.

"...." Sarah doesn't respond before looking away, frowning. Huh? Is something up with you?

"...Just leave her alone you guys." Nicole sighed. "She won't tell us, even if she wanted to...But it's not that she's refusing to, it's almost as if...you're too afraid."

Sarah frowns and looks away for a while before sighing "You know...maybe I do..."

"Huh? What do you mean?" I asked in confusion.

"I mean I may hold some answers but I don't hold all the answers you seek." Sarah stated. "Now which one of you is gonna show me and my friends to our new room?"

O-Oh right...We're already in front of the home-ship.

We entered the place and showed her around the living room, seeing it as our main hub of this place. 

"It's really comfty around here!" Kodi smiled, running over and jumping on the couch, resting his head on it along with the rest of the chibi dinosaurs and the white tiger of hers. 

"Yeah, but are you sure you can sleep here?" Kaede asked. "I mean, we can share our rooms with you..."

"You can share with me and big brother!" Carrie smiled.

"What?! But it's a bunk bed!" Skye cried out. "No use soldier, you can always sleep on the ground!"

"Oh wow, nice suggestion." Rantaro rolled his eyes. "And next, you're gonna tell her to eat garbage out of a garbage can."

"Yeah-Hey wait!" Skye gritted her teeth at the broker. "You take that back!"

"Heh, no." Rantaro scoffed.

"Grr!" Skye gritted her teeth, feeling outrage.

"Guys, calm down." I sighed, trying to make them stop fighting. "So anyway, Sarah...sorry if this isn't much, I mean...maybe you can sleep on the couch? I mean, till we find a suitable place for you to sleep."

"Why not my place?" Jack offered.

"Jack, I have seen your room and it's horrible." Mason said bluntly. "So no, I don't think Sarah would bother sleeping in there."

"Shut up!" Jack hissed.

Suddenly, before those two could argue more, Blitz started running ahead of us.

"Blitz, where are you going?" I called, following after him with the others catching wind of us before following us straight towards the elevator. It seemed to have opened for the chibi dinosaur. We all looked at each other and decided to see what's gotten the little dinosaur so worked up...

The moment we all entered, I noticed something different on the controls.

A new button. Wait, where did this come from? 

"Um, was that button always there?" Skye asked. "I mean, I know that this is my first time seeing this, but..."

"Well...only one way to find out." I shrugged before pressing it, and it took us down two levels, but not that far down to the pool area. Eventually, it stopped, and slowly opened up, revealing a new room to us.

"What the?" Kodi gaped, seeing the new room right in front of our eyes.

Holy cow...this room is almost like a mansion in here. Almost as good as Jamie's.

Right in front of us was a large bed with four poles on the ends and covered with some bedding. There was a large TV in front of the bed and a dresser to the side of the bed. There was a carpet with the picture of a leopard on it. The walls had the colors of the Elements of Harmony with the picture of an Alicorn in the center of it. There was a large window that allowed us to see the forest around us. Also, there was another door that led to some kind of training area. It had targets, punching dummies, obstacles courses and other things like that and another door that led to the bathroom for her room.

"Woah..." We all gasped, excluding Nicole and Rantaro, who stood there in shock.

"Amazing." Mason blinked.

"Dang, newbie got that rich kids' room." Jack gasped.

"What? But...that's impossible...how did any of this came?" I wondered.

"Yeah, and I thought new rooms were unlocked when one of you guys woken up?" Kodi wondered.

"Yeah, same here." Jamie nodded. "It was also a working theory I had..." Jamie frowned before turning to Sarah. "Wait, Sarah...did you do this?"

"No, I did not." Sarah replied, shaking her head. Her chibi dinosaurs ran around the room, bouncing all around happily. Snowflake went over to the bed and sniffed it.

"Well...at least she has her own room." I sweat-dropped, blinking in shock at the new room.

"...Something isn't right..." Nicole muttered.

You tell me...

"What do you mean?" Sarah turned to Nicole, confused by what she said.

"This mysterious room appeared of nowhere...and it opens up a new room if one of us is awaken, but when you showed up, this whole place mysterious appeared out of nowhere...it's confusing to know that it would appear and it would be conveniently a place where you can sleep." Nicole explained.

"Yes...it is." Jamie nodded in agreement, seeing Nicole's logic.

"It is?" Kodi barked in confusion.

"Well...I guess it would make sense." I couldn't help but agreed there. "But even so, it's best not to think too much about it. After all, she is a guest here..."

"Yeah, but isn't there any houses over by the blocks? Newbie can get one there." Jack huffed.

"Newbie? Why you calling her that?" Rantaro asked suspiciously. "You're saying as if she's joined the team."

"I don't mind being called that." Sarah reassured. Blitz came over and pawed at my leg.

"What do you want, little guy?" I bend down and asked him gently.

Blitz chirped happily at me as Sarah giggled, "He wants to play."

"Play?" I looked at her in confusion before seeing the smile on her muzzle while Blitz blinked at me.

"Well...I guess Kodi can play with him." I shrugged.

"Yeah!" Kodi cheered before barking at Blitz. "Come on Blitz! Let's go!"

Blitz chirped and the two chased each other happily around the room.

"And if you guys want me to be a part of the team, it's your choice." Sarah shrugged.

We all looked at each other, wondering about that offer.

"What do you guys think?" I asked them.

"Well...she might be able to help us uncover more clues about our missing memories." Jamie hummed at that idea.

"And she is really strong with her magic." Kaede added.

"Eh, newbie's got guys, I like it." Jack smirked.

"...Sure why not." Nicole shrugged.

"Meh, I don't care." Rantaro rolled his eyes.

"Okay!" Carrie laughed. "She looks like a really nice person!"

"Very well, if you trust her, then so will I." Mason smiled softly.

"She'll make a fine comrade!" Skye crossed her arms. "I can smell victory on the horizon with her by our side."

I smiled at each of them before turning to Sarah and replied back, "Well then...I guess you're part of the team, Sarah."

Sarah gave us a small smile and said, "Glad to be a part."

"Yeah..." I nodded before walking around the room, and saw the TV. "But you know, it outrivals the rest of our rooms."

Suddenly, the TV began acting all strange and started all weird but it started to go all static...and the background changed to different numbering codes of 0's and 1's. Wait a minute...haven't I seen something like that before?

"...She....here....Welcome...you..." Soon, the static on the TV was gone and nothing appeared. 

"Ah! What was that?!" Jamie screeched.

"I don't know..." Mason muttered, crossing his arms. "But that wasn't natural."

"Hmm...let me try." Sarah offered, walking over to the TV and lit her horn in a yellow magical aura. Her horn blasted an electrical bolt at the TV.

Whoa! Talk about overkill...

Unfortunately, it didn't seem to work.

"Nothing happened..." Carrie frowned.

"Dang it, it didn't work!" Skye groaned. "What the heck?!"

"Hmmm...Odd." Sarah frowned before she checked the cables, but saw they were all correctly placed. So why did the TV cut off like that?

"...I felt like I saw that happened before..." I muttered, scratching my chin in thought. "Well...I guess that's alright then...Whatever it was, I guess we'll figure it out later."

"So what do we do now?" Carrie asked.

"Well it's about time for dinner." Mason offered. "I'm planning on making some really good dishes after the day we went through..."

"Heheheh! Sweet!" Jack patted his gut before dashing out of the room, eager to get some food. Mason stood there, sighing and shaking his friend at his friend's nonsense before the rest of us began walking out.

"Come on Sarah, you and your friends can join us." Kaede offered.

"Thanks. I'm kinda hungry myself." Sarah smiled. "Blitz, Snowflake, everyone, come on." She called out to her chibi dinosaurs and white tiger, which they obliged and followed her out of her room as we took the elevator back to the living room where Mason began cooking our dinner for us.

You know, today's been a weird day, and I mean it in a good way. We met a new friend who has the power to actually bring dinosaurs to life, and possibly any anime in existence that I've ever watched! Just who is this unicorn?!




Later

"Man...this taste really nice."

"Yeah, it's really sweet, isn't it?" I chuckled, giving my new friend a soft smile. We all were in the dining room table, eating much food that Mason cooked up.

Sarah giggled at the delicious food, enjoying every bit before noticing Blitz on the table and sniffing her dinner.

"Blitz, you can't have that." Sarah cooed before she grabbed Blitz with her magic and placed him on the floor. Sarah then poofed up some grass and some meat for her chibi dinosaurs while Snowflake enjoyed eating her steak and Kodiak was eating his doggy kibble. Oh boy, glad that Twilight and the others aren't here to see this. You know how they are when seeing a piece of meat. 

"Whoa...they all look really adorable..." Carrie cooed happily at the sight of them.

"Whoa...I-I'll admit, they're really cute..." Skye cleared her throat, blushing a bit.

"Yeah..." Kaede smiled happily before staring down at the creatures. "Hmm...Dinosaurs...You know, I can't help but feel like I've seen them other than that show Ren mentioned, but I just can't seem to remember..."

"None of us do." Rantaro scoffed while Nicole looked over at Sarah and her white tiger and her chibi dinosaurs.

Blossom walked over to Nicole and nuzzled her leg, easing her tension as she gave the little chibi dinosaur a small smile. Aww, I never seen that side of Nicole...Heh, I guess she's slowly breaking out of her shell.

Soon, I noticed Blitz walking over to Jack, who stared at him.

"What do you want, shrimp?" Jack asked grumpily, only to get his question answered by the small chibi dinosaur biting on his leg. "OW!" 

He fell out of his chair and tried to pry Blitz off but the chibi dinosaur had a tight grip.

"Get off of me, you brat!" He cried out but Blitz kept munching on his leg so much. Heh heh, keep munching on him like that and you might become Pac-man than a dinosaur.

"HAHAHAHAHA!" Carrie, Kaede, and Skye began laughing at his unfortunate sight while Sarah gave an eye-roll and a small smile.

"Um, tell me that he doesn't do that much, right?" I asked the unicorn with a raised brow.

"It's a small habit of his." Sarah grinned. "But it's good to get a laugh at."

"To me, it doesn't!" Jack yelled out in frustration, shaking his leg around to get the chibi dinosaur off his leg.

Sarah got up from her seat and Blitz looked at her and blinked, "Blitz, come on, let's go of his leg." She cooed. Blitz chirped and let go of Jack's leg and walked over to Sarah. "Good boy."

Jack growled at Blitz and grumbled, "Tiny brat."

"Now now Jack, he's just a baby." Rantaro joked.

"Hmph!" Jack huffed, looking away.

Blitz noticed this before walking over and licking his cheek, almost like an apology.

"Huh?" Jack stared at the small chibi dinosaur in surprise, earning a smile on my face.

"Hehe, looks like Blitz is saying 'I'm sorry' with his licks." I chuckled.

"Rarr." Blitz said softly and stared at Jack, giving him a cute look.

"Heh..." Jack picked up the chibi dinosaur. "Alright little fella, we're cool." Blitz licked his face, making him blush a bit. "Hey, stop that!"

Blitz chirped again, smiling in joy.

"Mm..." I softly smiled, seeing them get along like that. I mean, Sarah is really somepony that you can enjoy...I mean, she always been able to become such a good friend with us.

Wait...why would I say that? Ugh...




"That's why...I promise to be there...I love you guys...and please be safe when the time comes..."




Huh? What the? Was that...?

"Um, Sarah? Did you...say something?" I asked in confusion.

"No, I didn't say anything." Sarah stated, shaking her head.

"Huh?" I blinked before frowning, "But...I heard your..."

This doesn't make any sense? I swear that was her voice...She really does have some relation to our past? Is that why she came? I...I think I should stop thinking like this. Repeating myself won't give me any answer...it's best that we wait and see...as my dad would put it.




Later

"Oooh..."

"Aaah..."

After we finished up dinner, we all headed outside and met up with the rest of the Mane Six and Spike, seeing fireworks being displayed outside before noticing Princess Celestia with the Saddle Arabia delegates, who apparently look slightly different than seeing the ponies here. They looked almost like actual horses than ponies.

"Whoa...Look at them all!" Carrie complimented.

"They're so beautiful..." Skye said in awe before making a salute. "Mission accomplished as they say!"

"Nice fireworks, you guys." I complimented.

"It wasn't us Ren." Fluttershy shook her head. Huh? That's weird, then who?

"It was me..." We all turned over and saw a familiar light blue unicorn with her wizard hat and cloak.

"Trixie?!" We all exclaimed in shock.

"I just...came here to apologize for my actions." Trixie said with remorse in her tone. "It's the least I could do. I treated you all so horrible when I was wearing that Alicorn Amulet. I just couldn't control myself. You can forgive me, can't you?"

"Hmmm..." Twilight and I looked at each other before smiling and replied, "Sure."

"Oh, good." Trixie smiled. "Don't you think the Great and Apologetic Trixie is the most magnificent humble pony you've ever seen?!"

"Hmm...Well while we have met for the first time and while it wasn't a good meeting, it's an honor to meet you." Mason smiled softly. "I just hope you learned a good lesson."

"I have, fre-I-I mean...um, Mason Hunter." Trixie took off her hat and bowed a bit, being polite to him. 

"Trixie." Sarah spoken, giving her a soft smile. "Your actions were not your own, Trixie. You were under the influence of the Alicorn Amulet. You have nothing to apologize for." She then reached a hoof out to Trixie and said, "But let this be a night for a new friendship?"

Trixie looked at Sarah's sincere smile and she smiled back and they both shook hooves.

"Thank you." Trixie said. Sarah nodded before we watched Trixie take her leave, but not till she gave out one more blast to the sky, creating a final firework performance for us all, and best part, it had me and Twilight's face on it. 

"Take care...Trixie." I smiled softly.

"You too...Ren Loodan." Trixie smiled. "And you as well, Twilight Sparkle."

With that, Trixie walks out of there while we watched her go off. 

"You guys are just gonna forgive her like that? Even you newbie?" Jack asked, acting surprised by what happened.

"Yes I am." Sarah nodded.

"Why?" Mason questioned.

"Like I said before that her actions were not her own. One cannot be blamed for intentions that were not in their own reason." Sarah explained. 

"Yeah...that is true." I nodded in agreement. "I mean, I didn't like her attitude of how she treated me and my friends back then, but still, I know she's just...lost. Though, about that Alicorn Amulet...What are we gonna do with it?"

"One thing..." Sarah took out the Alicorn Amulet before dropping it on the floor and blasted it with her magic, destroying it for good.

"What?! You...destroyed it?!" Twilight exclaimed.

"But...it was encased with dark magic, it couldn't be unable to break in one shot!" Jamie added, expressing his shock as well.

"My magic is more unique than other unicorns." Sarah smirked. "Even though the Amulet has powerful dark magic, the light will always surpass the darkness."

"Light surpasses the darkness..." I muttered, crossing my arms at it.

Sarah nodded, hearing what I said. "Darkness can come in many form but so does light and no matter how strong darkness may seem, light will always triumph over it. No matter the odds."

"Huh..." I smiled softly, nodding in agreement. 

Blitz and the other dinosaurs chirped happily at the display while Snowflake watched with joy in her eyes. We continued to watch the fireworks in awe before I took noticed of the chibi dinosaurs began fading away into light as Sarah's amulet started shining before it stopped glowing.

Whoa...just what kind of amulet is that? Maybe Twilight and Jamie might find out much about in their books?

"You know...I feel like I'm forgetting something." Skye frowned. "Does anyone have this sense that we forgotten something very important?"

"Mm...Yeah..." I muttered, scratching my chin. What did we forget?

"Mm! Mm! Mm!" Huh? Oh it's just Pinkie Pie.......Oh crap! Pinkie Pie!

We all turned to the pink pony party planner, who was giving us angry muffled yells.

"Pinkie Pie!" Twilight widened her eyes. "Oh no! I forgot about you!"

"Please, allow me." Sarah smiled softly before her horn glowed, shooting some small sparkles of light around Pinkie before her mouth returned back.

"Phew! Oh my goodness! You have no clue how long I've been waiting to speak at all! I barely had any lines in this chapter!" Pinkie complained, pouting at us.

"Sorry about that Pinkie Pie." I sweat-dropped with a nervous grin. "I hope you can forgive us..."

"Nah, it's okay!" Oh, well that was easy. "In fact, during the duration of this chapter, I wrote down an entire list of what I wanted to say...!"

Pinkie takes out a piece of paper and unveils it, revealing to be a long list as Pinkie began reading them over.

"And I thought our lists were longer..." Jamie sweat-dropped.

"Apparently not..." Twilight sighed. "But still, I kinda still feel bad for not doing anything to stop Trixie."

"Yeah, same." I sighed. 

"Don't say that." Sarah smiled at the two of us. "You two learned a lot through that. Ren, you sacrificed your win onto saving your friends which showed how much you cared for them. Friendship is way more important than victory. And Twilight, you tried changing Trixie's mind and showed her that magic powers alone wasn't powerful enough to take on the Alicorn Amulet head to head, so you tried using the one magic in you when trying to protect your friends - the Magic of Friendship. I say that you two learned something from this experience."

Yeah, I guess she's right...I mean, we may not have beaten Trixie and Sarah did all the work for us. I say that we did learned something...but I hope this experience has taught me to get better when saving and protecting my friends. After all, they are important to me, like family and I'm sure they think of that as well.





Meanwhile, outside Ponyville...

In the distance far from the town, Void was watching or more specifically, he was watching Sarah and Snowflake.

"So...She's here as well. That little sunshine pest. She will not stop me from bringing forth the Great Fall to this world." Void muttered before staring at the night sky, raising his arms before clenching his fist at the shining moon.

"Pitiful Sarah...I bet you can't wait to tell them...how you did this...all...and the Great Fall will be the day...where the inhabitants of this world...will accept their deaths."

Void disappears in the darkness, vanishing for good as he plans to one day confront Sarah for good.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 67 - The Return of Queen Chrysalis!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Things have been growing for us ever since Sarah joined our party. She's been very kind with us, and a very nice guest to have around the home-ship. Though, some were reluctant and kept her eye on her for a while...but I know that she's a really good pony for a while. She hasn't been doing anything creepy or anything evil-like to make us suspicious. Although, we have took noticed that she hasn't been going outside and talking with the other ponies, and we've tried talking with her, but she hasn't talk back to any of our questions about personal things. I guess she hasn't gained our trust yet, but I wonder what's going on her mind...but that doesn't involve her right now. What involves is what's about to come that'll get us all to see that side of her.

One night, Carrie, Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie were in the forest at night, each wearing explorer clothes.

"This was a great idea. We can get our cutie marks as zoologists!" Apple Bloom exclaimed cheerily.  

"Zoo-what? No, we're getting them in being jungle adventurers!" Scootaloo reminded.

"But girls, are you sure we should be out here?" Carrie asked. "I mean, we are trespassing in Fluttershy's backyard."

"And I don't think Fluttershy's backyard can be considered "The Jungle".

"She's right." Carrie nodded before smiling softly, "Also, did you know that the study of ponies is called 'Hippology'?"

"I don't think we look much like hippos..." Scootaloo stated, glaring at the two. "Also, where did you even learn that?"

"Jamie did!" Carrie smiled softly.

"Of course he did..." Scootaloo face-hoofed herself. 

"Speaking of which, where's Skye?" Apple Bloom asked curiously.

"She couldn't make it in time." Carrie shook her head. "She said that she was...busy watching a movie at the movie theaters."

"What?!" Scootaloo yelled, feeling upset by that. "How could she?! Man, she's gonna miss out on earning our cutie-marks!"

"But Carrie can't get one." Sweetie Belle pointed before earning a glare from the pegasus filly and exclaimed, "Did you forget how two of Rainbow Dash's friends, Ren and Jamie, earned their cutie-marks too! This could be something big that we can do! We can even help both Carrie and Skye to earn their cutie-marks too!"

"Mm...Thanks you guys." Carrie smiled softly, clapping her hands together. "But I'm not sure if I can get my own Cutie-Mark like Ren and Jamie did."

"Don't say that!" Apple Bloom smiled. "We'll be glad to help you along the way because..."

The three fillies bumped their rumps together before exclaiming "WE'RE THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!"

"Mm! Yeah! Cutie Mark Crusaders!" Carrie laughed happily before hearing some creaking sound before they turned around to see a bunch of wild animals approaching them. "Huh? Hey, what's wrong with some of Fluttershy's animals?"

"Huh?!" The three fillies turned over and widened their eyes to see the creepy green eyes on the animals' faces.

"Umm... wait what's that group of animals with glowing eyes doing staring at us?" Sweetie Belle asked. 

"But that's what I said-" Carrie was about to finish that sentence till the animals pounced at them, scaring the girls before they all screamed in fear... 

"NOOOOOO!" 






My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria


The Next Day

Ren's POV

Another day, another good day in the town of Ponyville. I've brought over my art portraits so that I can sell out much to the others.

"Man...that was so worth it at the end." Oh yeah, I forgot that I brought both Skye and Kodiak with me. Skye apparently stayed overnight to watch one of her favorite animated movies, Princess Mononoke. "Ha ha! I love it at the end! That's the mark of a true warrior! If only wish the other girls would have seen it!"

"You've really enjoyed that movie, didn't you?" I asked, smiling at her.

"Ha ha, of course Corporeal Loodan! I loved that movie to the very end!" Skye grinned. "Thank you again for ever suggesting that idea to me!"

"Well...It was the least I can do for that offer I gave out to help me sell these paintings." I shrugged before finding a good spot right around the streets of Ponyville.

"Do you think they might love these?" Kodi asked curiously. "I mean, they really look nice, but they don't seem to be fond."

"What do you mean?" I asked in confusion before seeing him point his paw over at some of the ponies, and I took noticed that some of them were...acting weird. Some of them had these big bulging green eyes, making me feel a little creeped out by. Huh...He wasn't kidding, they aren't even paying attention to my paintings. It isn't the paintings itself, right?

"Mm...Meh, I'm sure they're just being jerks to not admire this." Skye shrugged, checking over a certain painting of flowers. "Although, I feel as though this is just too plain in my taste, but either way, it's gotten my interest..."

"Really?" Kodi asked, sniffing the flower vase portrait. "Well...it smells weird, but the design looks really nice."

"Well I did use paint." I shrugged.

"Mm...Well it needs more...what would Sergeant Pinkie Pie would say...'Pizzazz'?" Mm...Pizzazz...I don't know...Do I? I mean, I guess it is her opinion so maybe?

"... and then she just left like that." At that instant, I turned around and saw the Mane Six and the others chatting about something walking past some of the townsfolk.

"Yes, even Carrie was acting weird." Mason frowned. "I didn't know why, but she wouldn't explain why she was outside and I can't seem to talk to her like I have always been..."

"Hrm...Those three fillies and your sister of yours are sure acting funny." Applejack agreed.

"Hey guys!" I called. "What's going on?" 

"Scootaloo has been acting strange." Rainbow stated. 

"Applebloom too." Applejack added. 

"And Sweetie Belle and Carrie as well." Rarity nodded. "We're not sure what's been going on with those three." 

"Indeed..." Mason nodded. "Carrie has never acted...this way. It's almost suspicious..."

"Everypony in town has been acting strange." Twilight said. "I've been trying to plan a viewing celebration for the Secretariat Comet this week and I can't get anyone to listen to me."  

"What was that? I wasn't listening." Rainbow said, earning a deadpanned look from the purple unicorn.

"Rainbow! Twilight, my sister and her crew are being as peculiar as everypony else around here! Something not right." Applejack exclaimed, glaring hard at Rainbow Dash who smiled sheepishly at the farm pony.

"Secretariat Comet?" Me and Kodi asked, blinking in confusion.

"It's a very important comet that should show up in the next three days as me and Twilight deduced." Jamie smiled softly, showing some notes and drawings he had in his notebook.

"Huh, that's actually pretty cool." I smiled softly.

"A comet! That means we can grant some wishes!" Skye jumped for joy.

"Yeah! Wishing comet!" Pinkie laughed, jumping along with Skye.

"Ummm...Hey has anyone seen Cheerlie? I just heard she didn't show up to the schoolhouse." Fluttershy asked, feeling concern.

"Huh? No." I shook my head. "Sorry Flutters, but I haven't seen her at all today. I just came here to sell these paintings for potential buyers, but so far..." I looked around the crowd, seeing them all giving us each weird glances. "Nopony seems....interested."

"And the Cakes didn't open Sugarcube Corner this morning." Pinkie chirped. "At first I thought maybe thy were planning a birthday party because Ms. cakes birthday is in 43 days and that's cutting it way close to just be staring in on ordering supplies..." Pinkie glanced away with a smile. "...But whe I asked about it, they just looked at me like I was crazy." Everyone sighed at Pinkie's claim, shaking their heads.

Although, they're right about about everyone is acting strange all of a sudden. What's going on? Why is everypony around town acting so...weird. First the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Carrie are acting weird, and now everypony...?

"Everypony is acting so bizarre! More and more ponies by the hour!" Twilight looked over at the corner, seeing more ponies staring right at us. "What in Equestria is going on?"

"Um...guys?" Kodi called, whimpering at the sight of the people. I took noticed of what he was looking at and saw the crowd of ponies coming around us all looking really strange with green eyes like they were possessed or something.

"Umm maybe we should move somewhere more.. secure." Jamie said nervously. 

"Or maybe how about I get rid of the crowd?" Jack cracked his knuckles. "Trust me, I've dealt with crowds like them when I'm with the police."

"Uh...I think we should go with Jamie's suggestion." I frowned. "Fighting won't solve everything, you know that Jack."

"Says you." Jack rolled his eyes.

"Quick! To the library!" Twilight cried out, only earning a pout from Rainbow Dash.

"That's your solution for everything." Rainbow Dash huffed.

"Quick! Retreat!" Skye dashed ahead and we followed after her before we all gotten inside of the house, and Pinkie slammed the door behind us and we all caught our breath. 

"So is everyone else weirded out by this?" Kaede gulped, making sure the door was locked.

"What the hell is wrong with them?" Jack questioned. "I mean, I've heard of angry crowds, but what the hell did we do to piss them off?"

"Wait... this is all too familiar." Twilight said. "Acting strange like they were... replaced?!" 

"You lost me." Rainbow rose a brow.

"Me too." Jack nodded.

"Wait...You don't mean..." At that moment, I suddenly realized just where Twilight was going with this. Ponies being replaced and acting weird like they aren't acting like themselves as we see everyday...This is...

"Changelings...!" Jamie widened his eyes.

Rarity let out a gasp before exclaiming, "Of course the Royal Wedding! Princess Cadence was replaced by a changeling!"

"The Queen Changeling and she went all evil on everypony." Applejack gritted her teeth in anger. 

"Oooh...The wedding...Yeah...Well, I don't remember much after I had Pinkie's tutti-frutti sherbet sugar punch. It made the day a bit of a blur..." Rainbow Dash frowned.

"Heh heh...That and you and I had that belching contest after eating all of that sherbet." Jack smirked. "Which I won."

"N-Nopony asked you fatty!" Rainbow growled. "I-I mean...it was so...good that I forgotten much of what happened...Okay?!"

"That's because I use seven parts of sugar to every one part Tutti!" Pinkie grinned.  

"Wait a minute, you all went to a wedding and you already know the enemy?!" Skye blinked.

"Yeah, it was before you woken up from your pod." Jamie nodded. "The Changelings...aren't exactly a species we would've think..."

Twilight walked over to a shelf full of books and searched through it before pulling one of the books out of the shelf and said, "Hmph. Lucky for you, I kept a journal of what happened." She opened the book and showed us a page with a changeling on one and a replaced pony on the other with the exact face we've seen on everypony else. "According to me and Jamie's extensive note-taking, , the changelings are back...and this time, they must be after Ponyville." 

"O-Oh no..." Jamie gulped. "Are they here...for revenge?"

"No duh if you guys might've pissed them off!" Skye exclaimed angrily. "Look soldiers, we're gonna need to fight back against them if we're to take them all on!"

"Wait!" I called, stopping her from opening that door. "You really shouldn't open that!"

"Oh yeah? And why's that Corporeal Loodan?" Skye rose a brow before opening it, and right in front of her were the townsfolk glaring down at her with their big bulging green eyes. Eventually, she slammed the door shut with widened eyes and deep breaths before giving us a sheepish grin. "Okay, point taken."

"Well anyway...We need to warn Princess Celestia right away!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. "She'll get rid of them quick!"

"Right! Spike! Take a letter!" Twilight called to her assistant dragon, who was upstairs and doing something with the stacks of papers he had before seeing him take a quill. 

"Right!" Spike grinned before he began writing down the note. 

"So now what?" Kaede wondered. "We're trapped in here till we get a response from the princess..."

"Mm...The most thing we can do is just stay here and wait till those guys are gone." I suggested. 

"Well I'm sure those Changelings might...leave, right?" Fluttershy smiled assuredly. "I-I mean...they can't stay in that place forever, right?"





Three rewrites and a spell check later...

"Oh my...they really haven't leave." Yeah...These guys just love staying around, don't they?

"Okay Twilight, I'll send it right away!" 

"It's about damn time!" Jack yelled, nearly spooking Spike with his loud voice. "What the hell have you've been doing while we sat on our butts and done nothing?!"

"Relax Jack, what's important is that Spike's finished with the letter." Twilight reassured. "Send it to Celestia, Spike."

"No problem!" Spike winked before blowing it with his flames. We waited till five minutes later, he regurgitated a scroll out of his body.

"Now that's what I call service." Pinkie pointed out before Twilight opened the letter with her magic.

"Dear Correspondent: I am unavailable due to an emergency. Please try sending your letter at a later time." she read aloud before widening her eyes, flabbergasted by this. "...I...I was just form lettered?!"

A moment of silence passed before we all groaned, "Oh great!" Jack exclaimed annoyed.  

"Well looks like we're on our own for this. It's clobbering time." Rainbow said, clapping her hooves. 

"You read my mind, Skittles." Jack added, cracking his knuckles. "I've been waiting all day for a fight."

"Um...I would be okay with waiting until the princess is available." Fluttershy insisted. 

"Yeah, same here." I agreed. "But we need to do something or we're gonna be toast."

"Literally." Skye nodded before grabbing her remote. "As general, I say we fight now!"

"My sister is missin' and if those things are responsible we need to find out what's goin' on." Applejack stated, snorting angrily. 

"Yeah." Mason added, taking out his staff. "They took my sister and they shall pay for what they have done. I guess Chrysalis thinks it's a funny joke to do that, and now she's gonna learn the consequences of her actions."

"We can't just go out there!" Jamie cried out, pointing to the window of the weird ponies outside trying to crawl inside. "They'll know we aren't Changelings! We need a plan."

"WAAAAAAIIIIT!" Pinkie cried, surprising us.

"What Pinkie?" I asked, a little alarmed by her yelling.

"... Where's Sarah, Ran and Nikki?" 

And that's when we realized a certain unicorn and two humans were missing. How did we not notice that?

"Oh no! Ya'll don't think the changelings got her?!" Applejack cried.  

"Hopefully not." Twilight frown in worried.

"But still, Ponyville is infested with these crappy bugs. We got to find newbie." Jack stated. 

"Umm.. I'm already here." a voice said and that's when Sarah and Snowflake appeared before us, shocking me.

"Woah! Where did you come from?" I exclaimed in shock. 

"Invisibility spell, duh. I used it to get in here." Sarah answered. 

"How? The door is locked?" Kaede asked. 

"I came in through Twilight's balcony window." Sarah added, pointing over to the window. 

"But what if-"

"I made sure of that it was closed and none of those Changelings came in and saw." Sarah reassured calmly.

"Well.. thank goodness you're alright and not replaced Sarah." Applejack said with relief. 

"Yeah, now we can charge right in and save our friends." Rainbow pumped her hooves together with a cocky smirk.

"Rainbow, we can't, remember?" Jamie reminded. "We can't let the Changelings see us."

"Idea! Idea! Pick me! Pick me!" Pinkie said rapidly. 

"Yes Pinkie?" I asked curiously 

"How about Sarah casts her invisibility spell on all of us so the changelings won't see us." she said. Another moment of silence passed before it dawned on us.

"...Duh." Skye crossed her arms with a smirk. "It was so obvious."

Then why didn't you say anything at all about it when Pinkie said it, Skye?

"Alright then, let's go!" Sarah's horn began glowing before she turned all of us invisible. 

"Huh...Cool." I commented in awe.

"I can see you guys just fine." Kodi barked. "Even myself!"

"Take a look at the mirror." Sarah pointed over to the mirror nearby as he trotted over there and gasped upon seeing no reflection of himself.

"Whoa! It really did work!" Kodi smiled happily. "Thanks Sarah!"

"Anytime, now let's go..." Sarah stated.

"Wait, what about Nicole and Rantaro?!" Kaede asked in worried.

"Don't worry, they're hiding out from somewhere in Ponyville." Sarah reassured. "If you want, I can help you guys find them."

"That sounds good. Thanks Sarah." I sighed in relief.

I'm glad to hear Nicole and Rantaro alright...that's just a relief for all of us.





In the town

"It's working." Kaede whispered. 

"Yeah, guess the crazy pink pony was right for once." Jack admitted. 

"Aww... thanks." Pinkie smiled, earning a low growl from him.

"So where are they Sarah?" I whispered to the cloaked unicorn, who turned to me and whispered back, "They should be on the main streets in town, hiding behind Sugarcube Corner."

Odd place to hide, but then again, maybe it's a safe haven for now from these Changelings.

"Umm... everypony." Twilight called over, pointing her hoof over as we watched and saw a familiar gray pony trapped in a cocoon.

"H-Hey...isn't that Derpy?" Jamie gulped in fear.

"Yeah..." I nodded grimly. She got caught too...Oh man, there are Changelings everywhere.

"They've captured that pony and took her place." Twilight muttered before watching the Changeling that trapped her transforms and takes her place. 

"Jeez...that still creeps me out." Kaede gulped. 

"Tell me about it..." I agreed before seeing the Changeling started sniffing something before it began hissing. What? What's going on with it?

"It knows...!" Skye hissed till Applejack covered her mouth and muttered, "Quiet!"

The Changeling, disguised as Derpy, walks around, almost near us, trying to catch its scent. However, not too soon did something electrocuted it. Five seconds later of electrocution, it collapsed unconsciously and reverted back to its original self.

"That takes care of that thing." Ah...! Rantaro! And Nicole!

Two two came out of the bushes while Rantaro twirled around his taser gun in hand. 

"Mm...I can't believe those guys are actually invading this place. How unexpected to do that out of Chrysalis's personality...but then again, she's too arrogant and highly confident on wanting revenge on all of us." Nicole sighed.

"Mm...Don't think I saved you out of a free charge." Rantaro scoffed.

"Okay..." Nicole sighed, taking out some cash and handed it to him.

"Nice." Rantaro smirked.

"Hey guys." Sarah called, making us visible again to let them see us.

"Oh...Hey guys." Nicole greeted. "Did Sarah made you two invisible, I take it?"

"Yeah, and it was really useful." I smiled.

"What about you guys?" Kaede asked. "Y-You didn't get...caught, did you?"

"They could try." Rantaro waved it off. "But while we were minding our own business, I saw how everypony wasn't interested in my sales and they were looking weird, so I had a suspicious feeling that they were the Changelings."

"Tch, it was obvious they were Changelings." Jack scoffed.

"Yeah, and it took you a whole hour to eventually realize that, huh tubby?" Rantaro snorted, earning a growl from him.

"Why you...!" I stepped over and gotten between them. "Guys, come on! We need to focus!"

"Ren's right!" Twilight agreed. "If we don't do something, then all of these towns-ponies could end up trapped in those cocoons forever!"

"Ugh...fine. But I still want my punch to the face later." Jack huffed.

"Like you can try..." Alright, so far...I think this is the real Rantaro and Nicole considering that Nicole always has her iPad with her and looks at the screen for her 'data research' and Rantaro being...Rantaro.

"Where are they keeping all these things? This is only one we've seen so  far." Rarity asked. 

"Umm..." Kodi spoken, looking a bit frighten and nervous. "Do you think where they're keeping them would... I don't know.. is big and pulsing and has a green eerie glow?" 

"Kodi what are talking ab-" Me and the others turned and saw town hall pulsing with green energy. We all gasped in shock, seeing it look like that.

"Well...I...guess that's where they are." Twilight blinked in shock.

"Let's go!" Sarah exclaimed, running straight to the field

"Let's get this rodeo started!" Applejack added, charging in with Sarah.

"Give me back my sister you ruffians!" Rarity said.

"And give me back my sister too!" Mason yelled, charging in with his bamboo pole in hand while Dash and Jack kicked down the door.

"It's flank whooping... time?" Rainbow widened her eyes, unable to finish her sentence as we all took a close watch upon seeing so many cocoons Oh my god! There were loads of with ponies inside of them.

"Holy crap." Jack stated, his eyes widened.

We then took noticed of a lot of changelings, hissing at us, ready to fight. I got out my Hacking gun and aimed straight at them.

"Alright, everyone, we fought them before. We can handle this... I hope." I said before the changelings then turned into copies of us.

"Watch out they're taking our form to confuse us." Twilight said. 

Well this is..." Rarity started.  

"Nightmarish." Applejack added. 

"Oh! This would be the best party ever if we weren't all all about to be turned into pod ponies and humans." Pinkie grinned.

"PINKIE!" We all groaned. 

"Sergeant Pinkie! This is no time for party...well at least, not after we win the battle!" Skye exclaimed before taking out a small baseball bat from her hands. "Besides, these things don't scare me one bit."

Gotta admit, she's really not afraid of them.

"Yeah...Let's get them!" Jack yelled, which we all chanted together before we charged straight at them.

"Be careful!" Nicole called, standing back with Rantaro, Jamie, and Fluttershy. "Don't hit the pods! We may hurt whoever is inside!"

"Got it! Thanks!" I called back before firing multiple Burn bullets at some of the enemies, taking them down and making them revert back to their original forms. 

Kaede took out her bowing arrows before firing much at some of the changelings, managing to pin some of them down with her shots. 

"Woo! Time to kick some flank!" Rainbow grinned alongside with Jack before they took down some of their own copies. 

"Rainbow! Jac! Be nice! That kinda hitting your own...in a way..." Flutterhsy muttered.

"Oh! Be careful! We can't hit the real deal!" I added before seeing a bunch of Fluttershy clones. "Oh no...I can't them...they're all pretending to be my girlfriend."

"Well too bad..." Rantaro shot each of the Fluttershy copies with his taser, giving me a serious yet tired look. "This is battle, so focus kid."

Mm...I hate to disagree with him, but he's right about that.

"Um, be careful with who you hit, you guys..." Fluttershy warned.

"Can it!" Jack yelled, body-slamming a few Twilight clones. "Stop acting like some brat who thinks everything is nice!"

"Fatty has a point! You need to learn to stop acting nice towards anything that could harm anyone!" Rainbow agreed, punching a Pinkie clone. "They could even hurt your boyfriend."

"Um, Rainbow Dash, Jack, are you sure that's wise?" I asked before being tackled by my own clone, who glared sinisterly with a dark smirk on his fac.e

Upon seeing me like this, she widened her eyes in shock before glaring at my copy  before grabbing one of them by the neck and gave them a scary glare.

"HOW DARE YOU HIT MY FRIENDS AND MY MATE! YOU...YOU...MEANIE! YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS SHOULD GO HOME RIGHT NOW!" Fluttershy screamed, scaring some of the Changelings around us. I simply sat there with a shocked look before smiling softly and nodded.

Yep...that's my special somepony right there...

Eventually, all the Ren, Fluttershy, and Pinkie clones ran away in fear of her while she helped me up. We each gave each other smiles before kissing each other in the cheeks and witnessed Jack and Dash's jaw-dropping reactions to that.

"Well...If that's okay with you..." Fluttershy meekly smiled.

"Take that! And that!" Skye begins whacking each clone she sees with the use of her baseball bat. "Ha ha! Even as a military general such as myself, even she has to play dirty in order to secure her victory for her crew!"

Not sure that how it works...What about honor?

"How are we supposed to tell me apart from them?!" Kodi gulped, seeing some clones of his own.

"Hmm...Do you mind if I do something I've been dying to try with you?" Rarity offered, confusing my pet husky before she began doing something to fur, and suddenly made it...all nice and smooth, almost like a gorgeous hairstyle.

"There, now you look different and fabulous!" Rarity smiled.

"But that's not what I had in mind..." Kodi pouted before dodging an incoming headbutt attack. Kodi then bit the Changeling on the leg, causing it to screech before throwing him across with the others.

"Rarity!" Kaede called, firing more arrows. "I think you should blast them! Pretend its last year's fashion!"

Rarity let out a gasp before snarling at the Changelings, disguised as her, before she fired some with a powerful blast!

"Eep! Leg warmers and stirrup pants?! Not in my spring line!" Um...what's wrong with those types of things?

"But I like leg warmers..." Skye pouted before getting tackled by another one of her clone. "Hey! Get off of me you creep! Besides, I don't look that angry!"

"HA!" Mason came in and hit the fake Skye copy in the face with his bamboo pole while helping the real one out. "Take it easy, Skye. Be careful around them."

"Yeah yeah, I get it. Thanks Private Hunter." Skye smirked, nudging him a bit. "Now come on! Let's keep fighting! We need to rescue these ponies, the Crusaders, and Carrie!"

"Very well..." Mason nodded before charging and attacking some enemies and grabbing one of them by the chest. "Alright you, it's time for you to talk! Where's my sister?!"

"U-Um..." The Changeling let out a shrug before flinching at his dark glare.

"Alright then..." Mason then threw the Changeling away, slamming him into the wall in a very hard manner. Ohh...That's gonna leave a mark.

"Um...A little help here?" Applejack begged, hoof-kicking them some of her clones away.

Twilight and Jamie stepped in by firing two small magic beams, blinding each one. I quickly took out my Hacking Gun and fired 'Dance' bullets, making them each dance uncontrollably to give Applejack enough time to escape.

"Thanks!" Applejack smirked.

"We need to try something else! We need to take them all down at once!" Twilight hissed, firing more beams.

"B-But how..." Jamie wondered.

"Well..." There's gotta be a way to deal with them somehow...Wait Sarah! "Sarah! Can you use your amulet?!"

"I sure can!" Sarah nodded before her amulet began glowing brightly, and at that moment, shot out every single

Sarah's Amulet then glowed brightly and sent out a large shockwave that sent all of the changelings flying out of Ponyville.

"Whoa...!" I exclaimed in awe. Well that was fast.

"Nice work Newbie." Jack stated with a grin, seeing all the changelings gone from Town Hall. "Glad those damn things are gone for good."

"They're all gone...Quick, now's our chance!" Mason called.

"R-Right..! Come on you guys! Release them out of those cocoons!" I called, which they quickly began doing so to release the Changelings.

"Ngh...how can we get them out?" Kaede wondered.

"What about the Hacking Gun?" Jamie suggested.

"It's our only suggestion." Skye shrugged.

"Okay..." I nodded before raising it over at the cocoons. "Detect!"

I began using 'Detect', the purple light radiating across each of the cocoons before it began melting everypony's cocoon prisons.

"It's working! It's actually working!" Twilight cried out.

"Well goddamn, what are we waiting for?! Let's hurry and rescue them!" Skye ran over and helped out any pony that were nearby from out of their cocoons. Eventually, we all began helping out each of them out of their prisons, getting them into safety.

One moment later, everyone was free…well almost everyone...

“There’s no sign of Carrie, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom or Scootaloo and we’ve opened all the pods.” Rarity said. Mason looked very worried for her little sister, feeling almost scared.

“Where could they be if they weren't here?” I asked. 

“They must be here somewhere.” Pinkie said, looking around the town hall in a second.

"Uh...guys...I don't feel good..." Spike groaned before puffing his cheeks out and spitting out something out of his body, revealing a green orb.

“What the-? That never happened before.” Twilight muttered, examining it. 

“Huh...I don’t remember eating.” Spike scratched the back of his head.

“Is that an egg?” Fluttershy asked.

“Is it from the Princess?” Twilight hoped.

"But Twilight, she never done something like this..." Jamie pointed out. "So who-"

Before Jamie had the chance to finish, a voice spoken through the orb. A voice that we all shivered and grew fearful upon recognizing it.

“Not a Princess, but a Queen.”

I gasped, along with the others before we saw what was on the orb....It can’t be...I mean, I know that we would meet her again, but not like this! It's...

“That bastard again!” Jack yelled. 

"Queen Chrysalis..." Nicole muttered, narrowing her eyes at the sight of the Changeling Queen.

"How is she back?!" Kaede covered her mouth in shock.

"My my my, you didn’t have trouble seeing through my minions huh? Clever. I’m sure you’re clever enough to notice some little fillies and human girl are missing?” Of course...She planned this entire thing, so they must've done something to them!

“Where’s my sister?!” Mason exclaimed in anger while Chrysalis smirked before moving to the side and we saw the CMC’s and Carrie in a large cocoons, trapped together but were still able to look around.

"I believe this is what you're looking for?" Chrysalis presented, taunting us with her a smirk on her face.

“How do we know that’s the real them?” Rantaro asked. "For all we know, those four could be one of your precious babies disguised as one of them?"

Yeah, there's no possible way that it's them.

"Maybe this will help us get out Cutie-Marks?” Applebloom smiled, not feeling frighten by any of this.

“In what? Being fillynapped?"  Scootaloo questioned incredulously. Sweetie and Carrie sighed, slumping their heads down.

“That’s them.” Jack deadpanned, groaning at the sight of them. 

“I have them here… in my kingdom. You can come and collect them if you want.” Chrysalis offered.

"Really? That easy...?" Kodi tilted his head.

"Hold on, you expect us to listen to this bug queen? Even if I haven't met her before, I still think this is suspicious." Skye pouted.

"Oh my? You must be Skye Jones, one of the humans in this world." Chrysalis smirked.

"Yeah!" Skye grinned before widening her eyes. "H-Huh?! Hey, how do you know me?!"

"I know a lot about you humans, so it isn't that hard." Chrysalis cackled. "Even if we haven't met, I know a lot about stuff about you nine in peculiar."

What does that mean? How could she possibly know? Does this relate to back on how her army can easily transform into our appearances?

"Now then, let's make a deal," Chrysalis smirked. "Why not you all come to my kingdom in three days, but if not, then I'll simply suck away all of their love. I can already sense how special these four must be to you whelps."

“Oooh, that bastard has gone too far!” Jack yelled, growling angrily at the Changeling queen.

“Well this is obviously a trap.” Rainbow huffed. 

"I'll be waiting to 'generously' give them to you..." Before Chrysalis could respond in time, we began hearing the Crusaders speaking to each other.

"What would a Cutie-Mark in being fillynapped look like?" Apple Bloom whispered.

"Like us?" Sweetie Belle questioned.

"I don't know if I want a picture of you on my flank for the rest of my life." Scootaloo rolled her eyes.

"And how is being fillynapped count as a talent?" Carrie asked curiously.

We all sweat-dropped at how nonchalant and less afraid they were acting. Then again, they are kids...but didn't they even see the Changelings back the Canterlot Wedding?

Even Chrysalis was sweat-dropping at the sight of them.

"...Because I don't know how long I can put up with this." Chrysalis groaned.

"Hey! She's about to start monologuing! I bet she reveals her entire twisted plan!" Scootaloo anticipated, only to receive an annoyed look from the bug queen herself.

"...Ugh...Goodbye..." Chrysalis sighed in exasperation before the orb signaled off. So Chrysalis has them in her castle? This all sounds so suspicious, and maybe a trap...but...

"Ngh!" Whoa! M-Mason?! 


"Mason darling! Calm down!" Rarity cried out, pulling Mason with her magic before he could destroy much of the orb. 

"Where is she?! Don't you play mind games with me, Chrysalis!" Mason cried out in anger. 

"Mason, dude! Stop!" I called out.

"Stand your ground, Private Hunter!" Skye added.

After a few deep breaths, he slowly began calming himself down.

"R-Right...I am sorry for you all to see me like this...but..." Mason looks down sadly. "Carrie...Sweetie Belle...Apple Bloom...Scootaloo..."

"Shh...It's okay." Rarity shushed him, nuzzling against his chest. "I understand how you feel...and we will get them back."

"Rarity's right." Sarah nodded. "Hang on tight Mason, Carrie and the others will be safe. Chrysalis is expecting us to arrive there in three days so that she can take us down herself."

"Arrogant to the end." Rantaro sighed. "Jeez, I guess her botched plan on beating us before back at Canterlot taught that stupid bug nothing."

“Though, why three days?” Twilight wondered. Yeah? Why just three days? I mean, wouldn't she just suck away their love in just 24 hours? There's gotta be a hidden meaning behind it. Suddenly, she then gasped, “The Secretariat Comet! In three days, the Secretariat Comet will be passing over Equestria!” 

“And that relates how?” Jack asked. "It's just some comet, big whoop..."

"It's-"

“It’s a phenomenon every magical creature is going to feel the effects, am I right?" Nicole guessed, adjusting her glasses while Twilight simply stared at her in a deadpanned manner before sighing, "Yes, and that might be why Princess Celestia didn’t answer. She’s probably protecting Canterlot from that.” 

"What?" Pinkie asked.

"Speak in English, you two." Skye stated with a raised brow. 

"She means that the Secretariat Comet will be the biggest conjection in celestial events in over 3,000 years because it drains away everyone's magic. It could very well happen to us..." Jamie frowned in worried. "Which means, this is what Queen Chrysalis wants...She's hoping for us to arrive when the comet comes to give her a fighting chance."

“But...if Celestia is busy, then who's gonna go to the changeling kingdom and save them?” Fluttershy asked. 

“Duh, we are.” Rantaro rolled her eyes. "Who else? Besides, I got no choice in the matter..."

"You really want to go Rantaro?" I asked.

"My business is gonna be put on hold what with these guys recovering." Rantaro sighed. "So whatever..."

Well...that's...something I never expected you to respond.

"Still no one with me that this is a trap?" Rainbow Dash called.

"Can it Skittles." Jack snorted. "We all probably know that it's a damn trap, but we can't sit on our behinds and let them get away with this crap! Screw the princesses if they are't gonna help!"

"Jack!" Twilight scolded. 

"Hey, if that princess wants to do nothing and not help us, we'll do this ourselves." Jack scoffed.

"I hate to agree with the brute, but he is correct." Rarity's agreeing with Jack? Well this situation really has turned for the worse. "Sweetie Belle needs my help! I'm going with him!"

"Same!" Applejack grunted. "Even if its a trap, we can't just wait around for help from the Royals! I've got to save my sister!"

"Me too!" Mason agreed. "As a soon-to-become Royal Guard, I'm not gonna sit around and just let my sister get hurt by that vile bug queen! We need to act fast!"

"But we should wait..." Twilight stated. "We need to some investigation into what the queen is up to. Something isn't right..." 

“And we don’t even know where to go.” Kaede stated. "I mean, we don't even know where the Changeling Kingdom could be." 

She's right? It could be anywhere...so where could we even start?

“But I know someone who can.” At that moment, we all glanced over at Nicole, who was adjusting her glasses while giving us a serious look.

"Y-You do?" Fluttershy asked.

“Who?” Kodi barked curiously.

"...Meet up at the front of the home-ship and I'll explain." Nicole explained. "And don't even try attacking my friend."

Why would we do that...? We're not that heartless...





Later

"Wonder what's taking so long...?" Twilight muttered as we all waited outside of the home-ship. Sarah made sure that no other Changeling are still here in Ponyville with help of her amulet while the rest of us helped out some of the towns-ponies.

"I'm back..." Nicole came out of the door, carrying a...potted plant?

"Well, where's your friend?" Skye asked.

"He's right here..." Nicole placed the potted plant down while we all stared at it with blank looks.

"...You're kidding...right?" Applejack glared blankly at the psychologist.

“How is that gonna help?” Jack deadpanned. 

"Yeah..." Skye chuckled nervously before leaning over to Kodi and whispered, "Should we call help for this girl? I know she's weird, but not this too weird..."

"Beats me..." Kodi shrugged.

"Yeah...someone call for help." Pinkie pleaded while we shushed them both.

"....Everyone." Nicole turns to us with a serious look. "I've...been keeping a secret, and Mr. Wilde has helped me keep this a secret too."

Rantaro went silent and simply just allowed Nicole to go along with this.

"What do you mean...?" I asked in confusion.

"Let's just say...I've been taking care of him and been helping him through...so please don't go hostile and trust him." Huh? What is she talking about? I mean, isn't it just a potted plant? Unless it's a magic potted plant?

...W-Well, I'm sorta taking my chances. 

The pot suddenly change… into a changeling! 

"A-Ahhh!" Kaede screamed. "It's a Changeling!"

"Get it!" Rainbow hissed before we all got into our fighting positions and me aiming my Hacking Gun in front of him. 

We all got into fighting positions while Rarity screamed in terror, “W-Wait, I’m friendly!” the changeling cried out.

“Yeah right bug!” Jack growled. "Hey kid, shoot this damn thing!"

Well...I don't know. I mean, this guy is actually talking. Other than Chrysalis, I didn't think any of the Changelings would try speaking, but he seems to be telling the truth.

Nicole let out a sigh before adjusting her glasses and said "Please don't attack my friend and guest here."

"Guest? And...Friend?!" I asked in shock. "You mean this guy here is the friend you're talking about?!"

"Yeah, she is and he won't do harm." Rantaro stated nonchalantly. "He's just going through a phase."

"Are you kidding?! So far, we know that he's the big bads!" Skye narrowed her eyes before leaning over to Pinkie. "That is right, right...?"

"Mm-hmm, totally!" Pinkie nodded.

"Thorax shows signs of timidness and nervousness unlike his brothers and sisters. Unlike them he wasn't to have friendship with the ponies and us instead of stealing love.” Nicole explained. 

"Yeah, and do you think we'll accept that?!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. 

"Rainbow Dash, wait!" I exclaimed, raising my hands to her. "We should at least hear them out."

“It’s true. All I ever wanted was a friend. I was a part of the attack on Canterlot during the royal wedding but I never saw true friendship like yours and I couldn't just steal it and feed on it's love. I wanted to share it. Nicole saw right through my disguise and she knew that I wasn't like the rest. If I had a friend maybe the love we shared could sustain me but I don’t think anyone would want to be friends with a creature like me,” Thorax said sadly. "Nicole has been helping me with my Hive Mind so I can no longer be under Chrysalis's control."

“And why should we believe you after what your kind did at the wedding?” Rarity sneered. 

"After what you all done, it's hard to believe in your words..." Mason sighed. "Nicole, why?"

"...Because he intrigues me." Nicole stated, looking through her iPad before showing the screen, revealing online notes that she herself made. "From my study for almost a month, I've been helping him control his urges. Queen Chrysalis has apparently been using the Hive Mind to take control and give orders to the rest of the Changelings. It's very similar to a bee."

"Huh?!" I asked in shock.

"So...back at the Royal Wedding, they were just doing what Queen Chrysalis was telling them to do?" Jamie asked.

"She says that it's for the best..." Thorax muttered sadly.

"Heh, 'for the best'?" Rantaro scoffed. "You just gonna let that thing control you? Wow, and I thought we helped you with your little self-esteem. I guess not."

"Rantaro!" Fluttershy scolded. "Please be nice to him, I'm sure Mr. Thorax went through some terrible times, um...right?"

Thorax let out a nod before closing his eyes, and soon...music began playing somewhere around here. Before you knew it, Thorax started singing...not something that we were expecting.

Music started to play and Thorax started… singing… not something I expected.


Give Me a Shot 



(Thorax):



Ever since I was a little nymph



I've been dreaming by a special desire



I've watched you ponies spreading hope and love



It really set my soul on fire



My two friends are all superstars



I hold them in such high esteem



But now it's Thorax's turn to raise the bar



To follow my deepest dream



The women here will tell you



I’m unlike the other drones



Don't wanna steal



Don't wanna harm



Just wanna have a friend 



 



I know I'm asking a lot



But I can prove what I’m not



I'll knock your clothes off



If you just give me a shot



 



I'll stand along with the best



If you will only say yes



This is my bang



Guys, please, just give me a shot



 



You saw what I got



Cause I act so shy



My instincts are always on the dot



I’m not longer under my mother’s Hive Mind spell



So ask not why when you can ask why not



Come on, you guys, give me a shot



 



I know I'm asking a lot



But I can prove what I’m not



I'll knock your clothes off



If you just give me a shot



 



I'll stand along with the best



If you will only say yes



This is my thing



Guys, please, just give me a shot



So I can prove what I’m not



Please, just give me a shot


Everyone stood in shock at Thorax until Sarah came up to him, “I’ll give you a chance, Thorax.” 

Thorax’s eye lit up with joy, “Really?”

Sarah nodded and replied, “Thank you.”

"Sarah? Are you sure?" Mason asked.

"Yeah, what if he back-stabs us?" Skye added.

"Guys, please give him a chance." Sarah pleaded. "Ren, what do you think?"

"Well..." I softly smiled at her and Thorax before nodding, "Well yeah...I say let's give Thorax a shot in this."

"Oh fine..." Skye sighed before taking out her bat. "But if he so betrays us, then he knows what he's got coming."

"Where do you even keep that?" Kodi asked curiously.

"I always kept inside of me." Skye smirked confidently before seeing our incredulous and skeptical looks, causing her to deflate in annoyance. "Okay fine...I asked Sergeant Pinkie to hide it in her mane. Seriously, her mane is like an infinite pocket dimension in there."

"And I don't wanna know what the hell's that about." Jack groaned.

"I would." Sarah giggled.

"Sure you would, newbie..." Hey, be nice Jack. I mean, she's just curious.

“So… how exactly are you going to help us?” Rainbow asked curiously.

“I know how to get to the Changeling Kingdom so I can help you get there and save your friends.” Thorax stated. “Even if it…gulp...means facing my mother.” 

“Don’t worry partner, we’ll protect you.” Applejack promised. 

“Yeah. If those meanies wanna get to you, they’ll have to get through us!” Pinkie added. 

Thorax smiled happily, happy to hear that we're willing to help him.

“Alright everypony, it will take us almost three days to reach the changeling kingdom so we better get moving.” Twilight added. 

“Right.” We all nodded.

"Hmm..." Skye tapped her chin in thought. "Well we obviously can't transport to alert the enemies...So we need a faster transportation to get there." 

"Transportation...?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Where in tarnation are we gonna get that?" Applejack asked.

"Trust me." Skye grinned. "As a matter of fact, I had both Private Wilde and Private Yamaki to help me with it!"

"Jack...and Rantaro?" I asked in confusion before turning to the two. 

"She asked for help after sparing a little cash, so..." Rantaro shrugged before nudging Jack. "And the big guy helped out make up the van, making it run its gas...along with him."

"S-Shut up...!" Jack exclaimed angrily.

"So where is this... transportation?" I asked.

Sarah lit her horn and a large object underneath a white sheet appeared. Now ladies, gentlemen and ponies, I give you. Your self driving car!" 

Skye yanked the sheet off revealing a small gray car with dashing windows and headlights. 

"So this car can actually drive itself?!" Mason exclaimed. "But how could you possibly do that?!"

"Yep. You just has to say the location you want to go to and the GPS will map out the perfect route and take you there." Skye explained. "And don't ask how, it was Sarah's idea."

"Mm-hmm." Sarah nodded, smiling softly. "We thought maybe something like this might happen, so we decided to do this in case of emergencies like this."

"Skye, Sarah...where you find this?" I asked in shock.

"Simple really. It was in that garage that was between Private Yamaki and Wilde's bedrooms and I just happened to modify it." Skye smirked.

"Wait, this car probably won't fit most of us." Kaede stated. 

"That is why I happened to make another in case." Skye whispered to Sarah, who nodded before her horn lit up and revealed another transportation.

"And I give you...a new van!" Skye unveiled the sheets, revealing a large gray van that could possibly fit everyone.  

"Whoa...it looks like a nice van." I exclaimed.

"It's a Citroen H Van!" Jamie gasped. "They were produced by a French automaker between the 1940s to the 1980s. It was certainly made after WWII, but they stopped production due to the newly made vehicles today in our world."

"Heh heh, yep." Jack smirked. "It works like a charm, so we can each share with it."

"Yes..." Nicole nodded. "Hmm...Although, one of us will have to drive this van while the other drives the other."

"Okay, but who?" I wondered.

"I could drive." Jack offered.

"Do you even have a license to drive a car?" Jamie asked.

"I have a license to drive a motorcycle, not a car." Jack scoffed. "Besides, who can stop us? The fuzz aren't here in this world, and besides, none of these ponies know about cars or vans or anything we have...!" 

"I-I was just asking..." Jamie frowned.

"So whose gonna drive the van then?" Pinkie asked.

"Me." Jack huffed. "I don't have a license, but so what? It'll be fine, you didn't hear me, you pink loon?"

"Just asking!" Pinkie grinned.

"And besides, this will be great to experience what an automobile is like!" Twilight smiled. "I mean, Jamie told me a lot about from our coffee breaks, but now we can finally experienced them!"

"And you can thank me for making your dreams Private Twilight!" Skye smirked before growing stern, "But no time for talking! We got to hurry!"

No problem! With these vehicles, we'll definitely there right early straight to the Changeling Kingdom! Though, I have to wonder...Chrysalis seems to smug and confident on this. She took the Crusaders and Carrie for some purpose, like she's trying to draw us over to her kingdom when the comet arrives. But for what purpose...?

"Ren...?" Fluttershy called me over, noticing my frown. "Is something wrong...?"

"Huh? Oh...Sorry Flutters. I'm just worried for Apple Bloom, Carrie, and the other girls. I mean, Chrysalis took them hostage and wants us to get them...I think it might be a trap, but even so...We can't just abandoned our friends like that." I frowned sadly.

"I know what you mean..." Fluttershy gulped. "But...even so, I know that we'll be able to save them...I think."

"Yeah..." I softly smiled, feeling confident that we will save them. I mean, we would always be best friends with each other no matter the situation.

"Hey Ren, Fluttershy..." Sarah called over. "We should probably hurry and get ready for our trip to the Changeling Kingdom."

"Oh right, thanks for the reminder Sarah." I smiled softly. "We're all ready."

Soon, we each boarded the two different vehicles; Me, Jamie, Jack, Mason and the Mane Six got into the van while Rantaro, Skye, Kaede, Thorax and Nicole got into the car.

"I'll drive." Rantaro offered.

"It saves trouble from lessening room in that van, and I'm not good with being with crowds." Nicole agreed. "Besides, I'm not used to being in crowds...yet."

"Mm...well at least it's made for us each." Thorax meekly smiled, sitting between Skye and Kaede.

"Surprised that you're letting yourself drive for us." Kaede stated, surprised by Rantaro's offer.

"Meh, who says this is free?" Rantaro rose a brow, extending his hand. "So how about you all hand it over to me?"

Kaede, Skye, and Nicole gave him blank looks before they each handed him their bits, excluding Skye.

"That's better." Rantaro snorted.

Okay, maybe not.

"Wait, where is she?" Rainbow Dash asked, noticing that Sarah and Snowflake aren't in the van! We all looked around before noticing the two outside of either vehicles.

"Sarah, aren't you and Snowflake going to get into the van or car?" I asked, noticing Sarah and Snowflake not getting into either vehicle. 

"Nah, Snowflake and I will just walk." Sarah replied, surprising us all.

"Just walk?" Mason asked in confusion. "Hmm...are you sure?"

Sarah nodded, “Yes. Snowflake and I will be fine.”

"Mm..." Mason closed his eyes. "Okay..."

"Well...alright..." Kaede frowned, speaking through the communicator. "Anyway, girls, how are you feeling in the van?"

"It seems pretty's nice." Twilight smiled softly. "I guess it beats riding in a chariot or hot air balloon." 

"Best part, I get shotgun!" Pinkie cheered.

"Excellent choice, Sergeant Pinkie!" Skye smiled happily, voicing out through the communicator. "You always gotta have the shotgun! It's the most vital thing in a roadtrip!"

"Says who?" Jack snorted.

"Well...I think just about anyone." I shrugged. "And wait, did you guys install a communicator?"

However, there was no response back.

"Hold on..." Mason stepped over and pressed a button that was next to it. "Can you hear us?"

"Yep, that's right." Kaede answered.

"Oh yeah, did I forget that I installed this to communicate with each other?" Skye ranged, sounding sheepish.

"Whoa...how can you do that?" Pinkie awed.

"Pinkie...This is just another piece of tech from their world." Rarity stated.

"Though, it's kinda similar to communicate through telepathy in a way." Twilight hummed.

"Oh! I wonder if we can fast-food through here!" Pinkie giggled.

"No it wouldn't..." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes before leaning over to Fluttershy and whispered "Does it?"

Wasting no time, Twilight walked over and pressed her hoof on the button and communicated, "Thorax, how do we get to the Changeling Kingdom?" 

"Well...We have to get past the Macintosh Hills, we need to go South through the Appaloosan Mountain Range, and then through the forest of Loeta and that should bring us to the gates of the Changeling Kingdom." Thorax said.

"Sounds easy enough!" Skye smirked before she began giving the directions into the self-driving car. You know, I never knew that we would get something like that.

"Location locked." Whoa...was that from the car? Pretty impressive.

"Alright you maggots, let's go." Skye called. "Time for a rescue mission to save our friends!"

We all started our engines while we each sat on our seats, and as said, Pinkie was sitting in the front seat, next to Jack while Kodiak lay his head on my lap. 

Sarah placed a saddlebag on her back and nodded, "Alright, we're all ready to go."

"Are you sure you don't want to get in here?" Kaede asked. "I mean, we can share some room with you and Snowflake."

"Don't worry...we'll be able to catch up with you guys." Sarah reassured with a soft smile. 

"Heh, if you say so newbie..." Jack shrugged before he started the engines, along with the self-driving car the others are in. "We're good and ready to load in!"

"Right!" Skye called through the communicator, sound exciting. "Come on! Ponies, fatso, leader, and other pals! Let's roll!"

"What the hell!?" Jack yelled out angrily. "You're so gonna get a spanking, you little brat!"

"You could try, but you won't stop this general!" Skye laughed.

Jack and Skye started the engines for both of the vehicles and we were off. Hang on tight, you guys...we're coming for you!

"Carrie..." Mason muttered, clenching his fists. "I'm sorry for not being there for you..."

"Mason...It's okay." Rarity placed a hoof on his hands. "I understand...but we need to stay calm..."

"But even so, I let her down by letting her and her friends, even your sister, to get caught. How can I not blame myself for it?" Mason sighed, looking down sadly.

"But even so...I have myself to blame too." Rarity sighed sadly. "If I just been a little more cautious about this, then..."

Rarity began sniffling as tears began developing her eyes.

"Miss Rarity...Please don't cry." Mason pleaded.

"Yeah, I get what you mean Rares..." Applejack frowned worriedly. "Our sisters are in trouble, and we can't just sit around and do nothing about it while they're suffering from that varmint!"

"Yeah! Even though if Scootaloo isn't my sister, she's still important to me!" Rainbow Dash agreed. "I might as well do much to save them over myself!"

"They're right..." Mason nodded, placing a hand on Rarity's hoof. "Promise me that you can let out your tears...when its all over."

"Mason..." Rarity smiled softly, feeling happy.

"Mason's right!" Spike agreed happily. "You can never go wrong! I promise that I will save them too, Rarity! I will not let you down!"

"Whoa Spike, didn't know you were in this." Jamie expressed his surprise upon noticing Spike there. 

"I boarded in along with you guys when deciding seats." Spike stated. "So...looks like we're going to the Changeling Kingdom? It's gonna be a rough journey, huh?"

"It apparently will." I shrugged. "But who knows what we'll see...I hope we can get there in time..."

Hang on tight girls...we're coming for you...





And so...we've begin our journey straight into the Changeling Kingdom. This van seems to run by electric power as we began to run straight over through the many landmarks that Thorax stated. First we went through Macintosh Hills, then the Apploosan Mountain Range, and pass the forest of Lotea, and eventually, we were almost nearing to the gates that would take us to Chrysalis's lair, the Changeling Kingdom.

But unfortunately, we had to get pass a little mountain...or mountains, heh heh...oops.

“So how do we get through the mountains in these things?” Jack asked, turning back at Twilight.

“There’s a path carved through the mountains when miners used to worked there. We can use those to get through the mountain ranges in no time.” Twilight explained. 

“Er… through the mountain? Why not go over the mountain?” Rainbow suggested.

“Skittles, these vehicles and the others, except for newbie and that pet tiger of hers can actually fly.” Jack stated. 

“The fastest way is through the mountain.” Twilight said.  

“We’ve only got three days to save Apple bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Carrie. I say we take the fastest route.” Applejack insisted. 

Rainbow groaned, “Well for me the fastest way is over the mountain.” 

“No we stay together as a group.” Applejack glared at her sternly.

Rainbow scoffed in annoyance before huffing, "Fine.” 

"Don't worry Rainbow Dash." I reassured with a soft smile. "I mean, once we arrive to the place, you can stretch your wings, I mean, we're almost there..."

"I know, and we got way earlier than we expected." Applejack complimented. "We've been gone for a day and we're already one-step ahead to get there."

"Hey, can it you two!" Jack hissed. "We're trying to drive here through!"

Jack and Skye drove the two vehicles with Sarah and Snowflake following behind the van. Soon we made it to the entrance to the mine. It had two small pillars with statues of large dragons on it.

“Eek!” Fluttershy squealed in fear, clutching onto me.

"W-Whoa! Flutters!" Ren cried out in shock.

"S-Sorry...my dragophobia was acting up again..." Fluttershy sniffled.

"It's alright, they're just statues." I reassured with a soft smile before feeling the van stopping ahead. "Huh? Why are we stopping?"

"We can't go through. It's too narrow to fit either car." Jack huffed.

"Hmm...This is a problem." Mason muttered before we all got out of the car and look at the entrance.

“How the hell are we gonna get these vehicles through that?” Jack asked irritated.  

“Hmm…” Sarah examined the entrance. “I can make the entrance bigger.” 

“How newbie?” Jack asked. 

“Watch.” Sarah stood at the front of the entrance and took a deep breath. She stomped her foot and a crack moved across the ground and towards the sides of the exit and amazingly they moved apart wide enough for the van and car to go through.  

“Oh my stars!” Rarity cried. 

“Woah!” I exclaimed in shock. 

Sarah just moved solid rock! And she did it...with a stomp of her foot.

“What the hell? How’d you do that?!” Jack exclaimed as well.

“I have many tricks and talents that are not seen with the naked eye.” Sarah said simply. “Now come along we have a deadline.”

Sarah and Snowflake walked into the mine system while we all stared at her in a dumbfounded way.

“...I hate to be the one who would fight her...” Skye muttered.

"Same..." I gulped.

Just how powerful is this Sarah Gem pony?

Soon enough, we all piled back into the vehicles and drove into the mine, following after Sarah and Snowflake. 

We didn’t see anything in the caves as Jack and Skye turned on the headlights to help them see better. “I wonder how long it’s been since anyone’s been in these caves?” Twilight wondered. 

“Well that means we’ll get through without an issue.” Applejack said hopefully. 

Suddenly, there was a roar echoed through the cave. 

The vehicles stopped and we all froze. “What… was that?” I asked. 

Oh god, please don't pull a Dead Space on me...I mean, I seriously just gotten it out of my head upon watching that trailer once...

“Probably. Nothing.” Twilight said, hoping it was nothing. Unfortunately, that wish didn't come true at all...

At that moment, we heard four more roars and suddenly the ground began to shake beneath the vehicles.

"W-What's going on?!" Rarity cried out.

Suddenly, the communicator flickered on and we heard Rantaro's voice saying "Crap!"

"Everyone, stay calm!" Nicole's voice ranged. "We're gonna fall, but stay calm!"

"How can we stay calm from that?!" Spike and Rainbow Dash exclaimed before we felt the rumbling and saw visible cracks on the ground and...the two vehicles fell into the darkness with us inside. 

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!"

At that moment, I think I experienced what a nightmare for death would experience...is this....the end of us?





Meanwhile...

“Hmm….” Back at her secret lair, the Queen of the Changelings was watching everything through her crystal ball, but she wasn't interested in the humans nor the Mane Six, but she was looking more at Sarah and Snowflake. “That unicorn is very strong. She could be of use to me.” Then she looked at the Mane 6. “I think it’s time for a little fun.” she turned to her minions. “You have your orders. I’ll be watching.” 

The changelings nodded and flew off. 

"Alright then, Miss Sarah Gem, prepare for your untimely demise..." Chrysalis chuckled.





Back with Ren and his friends

.....

"Ren..."

......

"Ren..."

....

"Ren...!" Huh? I felt my eyes slowly waking up before feeling Kodiak licking my cheek and Fluttershy looking down at me with a worried look.

"Whoa!" I jolted right back up before turning to the worried looking Fluttershy. "F-Fluttershy...? Kodiak...?"

"Oh thank goodness, you're alright!" Fluttershy rushed over and hugged me while Kodi licked my face happily.

"Oh boy Ren! You're finally safe!" Kodi laughed. "We thought you were gonna die!"

What? Me? No way I would end up dead that easily.

"I-I'm fine you guys, honest. So...what happened?" I asked, looking around the place before realizing that we were still in the van. Wait...we're alright and the van is still alright?! But how?!

“Everyone?” Twilight called, rubbing her head while the others woken up.

"I-Is everyone alright?" Jamie asked, groaning a little.

"Yeah...I think so." Mason coughed.

"But how are we still alright? I thought we fell into a chasm?" Rarity wondered.

We all looked around before noticing something that was protecting both us and the van.

"A pink shield...?" Kodi blinked.

“What the-?” Jack exclaimed. Suddenly the shield disappeared before the two vehicles, along with us fell safely on the ground.

“Well.. that was odd.” I'll say Applejack...Wait, that couldn't been...

“Where are the others?” Twilight asked. 

“They must have gotten separated.” Rainbow suggested.

"Well...We might as well find them." I insisted. "Come on, Kaede, Rantaro, Nicole, Thorax, and Skye could be in trouble! Even Sarah and Snowflake!"

"You're right, let's find them!" Jack nodded. "Let me just check out the van to see any damages while you all figure out our surroundings.

"Right..." I nodded. 

"I'll stay too to see if anyone can communicate back." Jamie offered, which we nodded. "Be careful you guys."

"Don't worry Jamie, we'll be alright." Twilight reassured with a soft smile before we all began exiting out of the van. We began searching around the caverns and looked  across to see how massive for the chasm it is. I was walking by with Twilight, Kodiak and Fluttershy, and we were exploring the place.

"Huh...for a chasm, it is...creepy." Kodi whimpered before I scratched him underneath the ears.

"Don't worry boy, we'll find a way. We just need to find a way out while also looking for the others."

But then, suddenly...we began hearing voices...and those sound like....

"Man, I can't stand Twilight. She's such a know-it-all egghead!"

Rainbow Dash?

"And what about Fluttershy and Ren? They're both scaredy-cats, mostly Fluttershy since she's afraid of her own shadow! She was useless to bring along..."

And Pinkie Pie?! W-Wait...why are they saying all that?!

"Why...Why would they say things like that?" Twilight widened her eyes in horror upon hearing this while I saw Fluttershy began crying, using her tail to wipe away her tears.

"Wait, girls, something's not right..." I muttered. "I mean, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie would never say that..."

"Well they did now..." Twilight huffed. "I can't believe them..."

"Me too..." Fluttershy sniffled. 

"Flutters...You've known them for your whole life and you know that they didn't mean that..." I frowned worriedly.

"...I don't know what's true anymore..." Fluttershy sighed sadly, flying away.

"Flutters! Wait!"

"And who can forget about Ren? He's so useless without that megaphone he always carries around! So useless for a human being!"

Huh? Useless? Pinkie Pie would never say that...No, she wouldn't say that...Something's definitely not right.

"Come on Ren, let's go meet up with the others..." Twilight sighed, walking away.

"R-Right..." I nodded, frowning.

"Ren, what's going on? You don't think they would really said that to each other, right?" Kodiak whimpered. "I mean, they're friends, right?"

"I know...but I can't shake the feeling that this is too weird and too much of a coincidence...and plus, how could we have just hear them?" I wondered, rubbing my chin in thought.

Soon after, we all returned back to the spot before spotting Jack and Jamie starting up the engines.

"About damn time..." Jack sighed before turning to see us, "Heh, you all sure came back fast..."

"Yes..." Mason nodded grimly. Huh? What's up with him?

"Um, guys? Is...everything alright?" I asked, noticing them each looking upset with each other, excluding Mason.

But the girls were starting to argue with each other, “Oh look, we all found the exit without your ‘Knowledge and Magic’ La De Bah.” Applejack sneered. 

“What? There’s nothing wrong with magic… or being smart.” Twilight frowned, looking quite shock for Applejack to said that.

“Maybe you’re the one being full of yourself!” Rainbow yelled at Twilight. 

"Skittles, not cool." Jack glared.

“Stay out of this Rainbow and Jack. Oh I’m sorry I’m too much of an egghead for you? Should I use smaller words?” Twilight sneered. 

"Girls, stop it." I pleaded.

"That's enough." Mason demanded, but the girls continued to argue more and more, causing me and the other boys to look at each other in worried.

"What's up with them?" Jack asked, adjusting his pants a bit.

"We don't know...while me, Miss Rarity, and Applejack were exploring much around the cave, I've heard Twilight and Fluttershy's voices." Wait, what? Mason heard what?

"Wait...what do you mean?" I asked. "We weren't even that far off."

"I thought it was weird too...especially what they said about them, even me." Mason stated, furrowing his brows. "Even what you said to me..."

"W-What I said?" I asked in surprise.

"Yes...you said that I'm too much of a show-off with my pole, and...a tool..." Wait WHAT?! No no no! I would never say that! "And what Twilight said, she was implying that she was much better than everypony due to having magic to defeat anything. Fluttershy was even saying that me and Miss Rarity couldn't even do anything right or even care about anything about our sisters...without dirtying our own hands."

I-I can't believe what I'm hearing...! This can't be right...!

"But...we also heard Rainbow Dash and Pinkie's voice..." Kodi stated. "And they said similar things to us."

"Yeah...and the weirdest part is that I know that neither of us would ever say that to each other." I frowned before turning to the girls, who continued to argue back and forth.

"But then, why...?" Jamie wondered before gasping a bit, "Oh no...this must've been a trap!"

"A trap...?" I asked in confusion.

"I think that we were by tricked by-"

Suddenly, the ground began to shake again before Jamie could finish his sentence.

"What's going on now?" I exclaimed before something burst from the ground! What the hell...are those...?!

The first three resembled giant gulper eels with bulging eyes, spiny face and six rows of rotating teeth in their mouths

The other one was a heavily mutated, albino version of them. It is white in color, has large red eyes, a longer and a more massive body, and larger tail. It also has three rows of teeth, but they are aligned differently. They have rows of frilly spines that line the edges of its unsegmented underbelly.

Wait...have I seen those things before...?

"W-What in the world...?!" Mason gasped.

Wait...Those designs...I have seen them before...

"What the?!" I exclaimed in shock. "Those are...! A Screaming Death and a Whispering Death?!"

I remembered seeing these in the HTTYD series, Dragons Riders and Defenders of Berk! It's one of my favorite cartoon shows! But...What the?!

"A what?" Mason asked, grabbing his bamboo pole. "Ren...what are these things?"

"They're dragons, but fictional ones from a show. Where did they come from?!" I exclaimed in shock.

The four dragons roared at us and one of the Whispering Deaths fired its spines at us. Twilight made a shield around us and deflected the spines but the Screaming Death let out a screech, hurting our ears and it actually cracked Twilight’s shield.

“Guess your magic is that strong afterall.” Applejack smirked, which pissed off Twilight.

"I didn't want to hear that from you!" Twilight hissed.

The Whispering Death fired its spines at us.

"Watch out!" I got in front of their way and used Knock-back, sending the spines back at them, which took down three of the dragons. I then aimed my Hacking Gun at the Screaming Death, but it let out a loud screech, pushing us all back onto the wall.

"Crap! What the hell?!" Jack hissed. "If these came from newbie, then why the hell are they attacking us?!"

That's what I wanna know! I mean, if they're from a cartoon, then they should like, come out of Sarah, right?

Suddenly, the three Whispering Deaths fired their shots at us before we all quickly tried avoiding it, but suddenly...

"AAGH!" Huh?! Sarah!?

Sarah suddenly appeared, riding on Snowflake before jumping off of him and taking the hit from the two spines that were launched at us; one to the right front leg and one to the back left.

“Sarah!”

“Newbie!” Me and Jack cried out before rushing over to her. 

Snowflake purred and frantically nudged Sarah. She groaned and her hood came down revealing her face. At that moment, The four dragons’ eyes widened at the sight of her and the larger Whispering Death gently flew over to her.

“Hey, back off! Jack growled, seeing the Screaming Death slowly approaching Sarah, but it didn't look like it was angry.

"Wait Jack...!" I called, getting in front of him. "They're...doing something."

"What?!" Jack yelled before seeing the four dragons warbling straight at Sarah, who slowly looks up and and manages to stand with help from her tiger friend. 

"It’s alright.” Sarah reassured, smiling softly at them. “Whispers, you didn’t mean it.” Sarah said. 

“Whispers?!” We all exclaimed, staring at Sarah in shock.

“You know theses dragons?” Mason asked, crossing his arms.

“Yes, Snowflake and I met them during our travels. I didn’t know you lived here now. Sorry we intruded on your

The four dragons warbled and nodded before they all slithered back into the tunnels. While the girls and Jamie were gawking at the sight of them, me, Mason and Jack helped Sarah up before we heard a beeping sound and turned to see the car speeding towards us before stopping.

"Guys!" Thorax called, poking his head out of the window with a relieved look while the others came out of the car and saw us.

"Guys, you're all safe!" Kaede sighed in relief. "I thought you were gone till Sarah told us that you were alright..."

"Wait, really?" I asked in shock. "What happened to you guys?"

"We've gotten ourselves lost in this damn cavern, what you expect?" Rantaro scoffed in annoyance.

"Well-"

"Don't worry, we're alright. And Sarah helped us before they began running off upon hearing that loud roar." Nicole explained, adjusting her glasses.

"Heh, how lucky..." Mason sighed in relief before turning to the girls. "Well now, since we're all back together, let's get out of here and tend to Sarah's wounds."

The girls nodded before looking at each other and glared at one another. Oh boy...

"What's up with them?" Kaede asked in worried.

"We'll explain once we get out of here..." I sighed.

Trust me, this is just already chaotic...





Meanwhile

"Um..." Carrie looked around in worried, seeing much of the inside of Chrysalis's lair while she and her friends were trapped inside of a cocoon. 

"Like what what you see?" Queen Chrysalis approaches them, smirking down at them. "This is my glorious home, where I can grow my newborn and soon it would stand as the highest peak for when I rule Equestria and take all the love in the world."

"You won't get away with this! My big brother, Ren, Kaede, and my other friends are gonna stop us!" Carrie exclaimed, pouting at the Changeling Queen.

"Yeah, you really don't scare us, to be honest." Scootaloo rolled her eyes.

"And plus, they'll kick your plot into next week." Sweetie Belle stated, glaring at her.

"Tch, keep talking and I can already absorb your love..." Chrysalis hissed before taking deep breaths. "No...I need to savor your love later once I take down those foolish humans, especially that Sarah Gem..."

"How do you know, Sarah?" Carrie asked, growing surprise by that.

"Let's just say that a little friend told me about her in one of our meetings before realizing that he was using me as a tool..." Carrie and the Crusaders looked at each other, wondering what she was talking about. Chrysalis didn't seem to want to talk more about it and decided to change the subject.

"Have I ever told you why I decided to kidnap three fillies and a little human girl?" Chrysalis asked, narrowing her eyes directly at the four kids.

"No...?" The Crusaders muttered, feeling a bit afraid of what she was gonna say.

"Well...You four are the ones who feed on your friends' anger if something terrible happened to you four. Once I'm done with those pathetic humans and ponies, Sarah Gem will be next...and then I'll  show him that I am capable of doing this all without his help, and that I'm not some tool to just throw away for his own benefits."

"And then what?" Scootaloo asked.

"And then...I'll take over Equestria and I won't be foolish to underestimate my foes, especially those two ignorant fools, Twilight Sparkle and Jamie Watson. Especially with Sarah Gem...Heh heh..."

"Uh oh..." The girls all muttered.

Carrie frowned worriedly before looking away.

"Please big brother...everyone....hurry..." 





....Man...this sucks...the girls are fighting each other...and now we're here together outside of the cave through our vehicles and Skye came out with the car and Jack came back with the van. Me and Mason were carried out Sarah while Kaede, Snowflake, and Jamie

“Easy Sarah.. You’ll be fine.” I cooed.

"T-Thanks you guys..." Sarah reassured before feeling Snowflake licking her face. "Heh heh, thanks Snowflake."

"So you guys said that you saw actual dragons?" Kaede asked.

"Yeah!" Spike nodded. "It just suddenly happened and none of us saw it coming! I mean, they didn't look like any dragons I've ever saw!"

"But...I still don't get it..." Jamie frowned. "Ren, didn't you just say that they were based on a TV series?" 

"Yeah, I never actually imagined that they were real." I stated.

"Yeah!" Skye agreed. "Isn't that the coolest thing or what?! Man! Why did I have to miss out on all the fun?!"

"Yeah, but..." Jamie frowned. "Where did they even come from? If they were on a TV show like Ren said, then wouldn't they be fictional? How could that be...?"

"Sarah..." Nicole called, glancing over at her. "You know the answer, yes? Do you know where they originate and how they came to be in this world if they're just cartoon characters?"

"They from a world that is far beyond Equestria." Sarah stated. "A place where dragons live untouched by humans and ponies."

A place where dragons live untouched by humans and ponies...That would be...

"Wait...The Hidden World!" I exclaimed.

"The Hidden...Oh my god...!" Skye widened her eyes in shock. "You've watch How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, too?! That movie really hit me up!" 

"I know, it was really awesome." I smiled before turning to her. "But...The Hidden World...it's real?"

"How is that even possible? She could just be saying trash to us." Rantaro stated with narrowed eyes.

“Snowflake and I have visited the Hidden World before and made a few allies there as well.” Sarah explained. "The Hidden World is a secret place very very few creatures know about." 

"The Hidden World...Awesome..." I muttered in awe.

I've watched the HTTYD series, and every bit of it so good and it was really great! I really enjoyed it...and I was so sad that it had to come to an end...I think I remembered watching the trailer, and it made me so sad that two best friends have to leave after everything they've been through together. 

So the Hidden World is real?

"But...how? I thought the Hidden World was something from a movie?" I asked in confusion 

"Yeah...Unless you're saying that its real." Skye stated. "That the dragons from the movie...it's actually real. These dragons are actually real."

"Each world holds it's secrets. Some worlds have more secrets than others." Sarah said before she winced from her injuries.

"Newbie, you alright?" Jack asked, coming out of the van to helped her up. 

"Y-Yeah...I just need to remove these spines..." Sarah sheepishly smiled.

"Mm...Hey you, kid." Rantaro snapped his fingers at me, gaining my attention. "You can use your healing powers, right?"

"Well...yeah." I nodded, knowing what he's saying.

"Good...just heal her legs while I remove those spines..." Rantaro proposed.

"What?! What if you hurt her?!" Jack yelled.

"Hey, I have medical knowledge, so it's no big deal...that is, for payment." Rantaro offered, gesturing him to give it up.

"Tch...damn money grubbing fly..." Jack hissed, handing him a couple of bits. Rantaro smirked before walking over to the injured Sarah. 

"Alright, this will take a little while so we're gonna have to do this in the van. I'll call you over kid, got it?" I gulped a bit before nodding as he and Jack began carrying Sarah over to the back of the van. Hmm...I sure hope that Sarah will be alright...

Meanwhile, Twilight and the girls continued to argue with each other, arguing over to whatever it was.

"Girls, stop!" Kodi called. "Come on, why are you all fighting in the first place?"

"Kodi's right, just stop it!" I pleaded.

"Ask her for even bothering reminding us of why we're even doing this." Applejack scoffed. 

"My fault?! Well maybe if you just...!" Twilight hissed.

"God, stop it." Rantaro called, looking over from the van with an annoyed look. "Look at you all, fighting over things...Man, you girls are stupid. I can't believe you actually are falling for this. 

"Falling for what...?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Alright...who started this fight? The one who first spoken up and was talking bad?" Rantaro asked us with a bored look.

Where is he going with this...?

Not too soon did Mason answered.

"I believe it was Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy and Ren..." Mason answered. "Though, it was odd for Ren to ever say that considering that he has never said anything bad about neither of us before..."

"Mm..." Nicole stared at the girls, narrowing her eyes. "They're being deceived..."

“We’d never have to go through any of this if we’ve went over the mountain.” Rainbow said. 

“I told you over the mountain would take longer.” Twilight said. 

“But Sarah wouldn’t have been injured.” Applejack pointed out. “I think you’ve just proven you can’t be trust to make the decisions around here.”

“WHAT?!” Twilight said. Oh dear, this can’t be good. 

“Well Miss ‘Let’s go through the Mountain’ I think we need someone else should be in charge of the map. I vote me.” Applejack said. 

“Thorax is the one who knows the way.” Twilight pointed out. “It’s gotta be better than you handling the directions.” Applejack growled. Thorax was shivering in fear before he began pleading too, “Um… can we not fight?” 

“Rarity, Mason and I can do this without you ponies. Go home. We can save our sisters without you.” Applejack growled as she and Rarity started to walk away.

“Girls wait!” Mason called. 

Suddenly, before any of us could act...

"AAAHHHH!" Huh?! Sarah?! We quickly turned around to see four changelings taking her away while Rantaro and Jack were covered in some slime, trapping their feet.

"HEY! GET BACK HERE!" Jack roared.

"Crap!" Rantaro yelled. "I can't believe they snuck into the van without us noticing!" 

“Help!” Sarah cried.

"Hold on, Sarah!" I quickly raised my Hacking Gun. "Break!"

I shot four 'Break' bullets straight at each of the Changelings' faces before knocking all of them down, letting go of Sarah. Sarah got up and limped over to us and the changelings got back up...

“Give is that cloaked unicorn, humans.” The leader hissed. 

“Never!” I said, raising my Hacking Gun at them.

“What do you want with her anyway?” Kaede asked.

“The Queen wants us to bring her to her.” The other changeling said. “And we’re not back until we have her.”

I held out my Hacking Gun and replied back, “We’ll we’re not gonna let you take our friend away.” 

“Yeah.” Jack added, managing to break free from his slime prison before showing his fists. "You're gonna damn well better be ready for trapping me in that damn slime off guard and taking newbie away from me! "

"Indeed!" Mason agreed before he took out his bamboo stick. However, before either of them could do anything, Snowflake leaped in front of Sarah and roared at the changelings.

The changelings hissed and charged at her but Snowflake swatted and clawed then with her large paws sending them to the ground.

“Woah… now that’s a powerful tiger.” Skye commented.

I'll say... 

The changelings quickly got back up, but were met face-to-face with an angry Snowflake, who lets out a loud roar which scares them away to retreat!

“That was too close.” Mason sighed in relief.. 

“What did those thing want with Private Gem… how do they even know about her?” Skye asked.

“Yeah. I don’t know how they know about Sarah. But I do know that whatever Chrysalis wants Sarah for can’t be good.” I said, feeling worried before rushing over with Kodiak and helped her out.

“Ren’s right. Who knows what she’ll do to Sarah if she gets her.” Mason added. 

“W-We’ll just have to make sure they don’t.” Jamie added. 

As for the girls they were still looking mad at each other and they began to argue again. They started arguing with one another, acting as if they aren't friends at all. This is just the Canterlot Wedding all over again...breaking off their friendship and losing trust in each other...

Why now...?

Suddenly....

"S-STOP!” T-Thorax...? Did he just yell at them? I never expected that a guy-er, a Changeling like him would speak out assertively. Snowflake soon let out a loud tiger roar, silencing everyone to grab our attention, even making the girls stop fighting with each other.

Thorax slowly stepped up and looked at the girls with a sorrowful expression and began his speech. 

“I thought you six were supposed to be friends, but you let what the changelings tricked you into hearing almost ruin it. We got through the Mountain Range and that’s what matters. Now we have to get to the changelings kingdom to free your siblings, but we have to do it together.”

Oh…my...God…he acted like Fluttershy back during the Gabby Gums incident.. Whoa...

Thorax then realized what he said and added, “.. Sorry for yelling.”

Whoa... I didn’t think Thorax could be that assertive. Guess he’s like Flutters in a way. Being assertive when it counts.



The girls looked at each other with remorse.

“No..you’re right Thorax… we shouldn’t be arguing.” Twilight frowned, rubbing her foreleg with an apologized look. "Everypony...I owe...you all an apology. I...I should never have gotten so angry at you. And I should never have left you without a map to find your way. That was awful of me." 

“Yeah. Sorry ya’ll.” Applejack added. "I think we all said some things that we didn't mean. I'm sorry too."

"Me too." Rarity agreed, nuzzling Twilight. "We should have talked things out...Like civilized pones. We are in this together, after all! I'm sorry."

"I'm sorry everyone..I can be such a hothead." Fluttershy blushed while I chuckled a bit.

"Oh Flutters..." Fluttershy nudged me in the arm softly, giggling.

"Oh you two..." Kodi barked in laughter. 

"Riiiiiight...Well, I'm sorry...I guess." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes.

"Rainbow." Pinkie warned.

"Okay, okay...I'm sorry too." 

"Me too! Sorry everyone!" Pinkie smirked before disappearing and reappearing in a...Wait, what the heck is that?! "Luckily, I always travel with an 'I'm sorry' cake! I also have 'I'm sorry' goody bags!"

Pinkie was wearing this giant costume that looked exactly like herself, but...it was creepy and haunting like one of those creepypastas...Ugh, just the thought of them makes me feel scared already.

"Uh...Pinkie, I don't think we have time for cake...we're only an hour away from the Changeling Kingdom..." Twilight muttered, widening her eyes in horror at the sight of her costume. Pinkie crawled a little closer to the purple unicorn with a creepy smile.

"Eat...The...Cake." 

Uhh...Being a little creepy there, Pinkie?

"Er, are we just going to ignore that costume?" Applejack whispered to her friends before they all responded, "Please don't ask about it."

"Yeah...Sergeant Pinkie Pie, please don't even try..." Skye sighed before leaning over to Kaede and whispered, "Let's blow it up when we have the chance..."

"Uhh..." Kaede sweat-dropped, wondering what to say. 

“Now that that’s settled.” Mason said looking at Sarah. “Let’s get these spines out of your legs.” 

“Thanks.” Sarah said. We went back to the vehicles and Sarah sat in the back of the van while Rantaro and Fluttershy removed the spines, disinfected them in the process, and once so...

"Okay kid, now's your job." Rantaro tipped his hat off to me, which I nodded before placing two hands on her knees and slowly closed my eyes, focusing my energy to heal Sarah's legs.

Heal...Heal...Heal...Please heal...

As soon as I opened my eyes, I saw a bright light circling around her legs. Once it was cleared off, there was no wounds on her legs

"There we go." I sighed, smiling down at Sarah. "There we go Sarah, good as new."

“Thanks.” Sarah smiled softly before seeing Snowflake walking over to her and nuzzled her, giving her a soft roar in concern. Sarah giggled before petting her on the head and replied, “Oh, I’ll be alright Snowflake.”

“Are you alright Sarah?” Thorax asked in concern. 

“Yes, I’m alright.” Sarah said. Then she let out a yawn and we saw it was almost dusk.

“We’d better get some rest tonight.” Rantaro suggested.

“Yeah, it’s not safe now that we know the Changelings are around here.” Jamie added, looking outside the window.

“We can’t waste any time. We have to keep moving.” Rainbow stated. 

“Skittles, newbie is in no shape to walk.” Jack retorted. "She needs her rest!"

“It’s alright.. Ugh.. I’ll be fine..” Sarah tried to get up till I stopped her.

"No Sarah, we can't risk you to get out there while you're still resting!" I pleaded. "Right now, you just need to rest now. Please..."

“Sarah, you can’t walk like this.” Mason agreed. “You have to rest.” 

"...Okay..." Sarah nodded, looking down with a sigh. "I'll trust you guys..."

“How about you place her in the van and we continue to drive to the changeling kingdom?” Thorax suggested. 



“Good idea.” Twilight nodded before Jack and Mason placed Sarah in the back of the van and Snowflake curled up around her. 

I could tell those two had a strong bond with each other....They're really close just like me and Kodiak.

"Those two looks so happy..." Kodi smiled, sitting on my lap. "Sarah and Snowflake are really good friends."

"Yeah, just like us." I smiled, scratching Kodiak on the head.

"Yes, those two have an elegant bond." Mason agreed before seeing his two pet squirrels coming out his scarf. "It's alright Nate and Maddy, do not be afraid of them."

Mm...We all have our worries on her, we would've done the same for each other. Why else are we on this adventure? We're in this to save our friends...! I'm not gonna abandoned them! So let's do this together!





Later

Soon after about two hours of traveling through our vehicles, we finally arrived to our destination. Right in front of the gates of the Changeling Kingdom. 

We got out of the vehicles, hiding them behind some boulders and made sure that they were camouflaged to keep them safe while Snowflake placed Sarah on her back, carrying her over.

"Do you think Sarah will be alright?" Kaede asked in worried. 

"Yeah...let's hope so." I nodded before looking back at her with a worried. "But...about the girls...The way that they were fighting....it's just like back at the wedding."

"Yes...I remembered that." Mason sighed. "It was an unpleasant memory..." 

"...I didn't like that we were all fighting." Jamie frowned sadly.

"Yeah..." That event nearly teared us apart, and it almost did again. That's why we can't fall for these tricks again. It's time for us to head out and solve this problem! 

"No time to discuss. We need to hurry because the Secretariat Comet will be flying over soon." Sarah said.

"And what will happen when it does pass over?" Applejack asked.

"The comet's passing is the most intense series of celestial events in centuries! The magical disruption will be felt across Equestria." Twilight explained, looking worried. "I think Chrysalis is planning onto absorbing it's power..."

"Well let's stop talking and get walkin' into this castle to find the girls from that evil doing, crazy cheese grater." Applejack formed a determined look, ready to get inside to save the girls. Snowflake sniffed the floor and growled before she ran off.

"WOAH! Snowflake?!" Sarah cried, holding onto her pet tiger. What the?! What is she doing?!

"Newbie!" Jack cried as the white tiger dashed into the castle.

"Follow that tiger, you maggots!" Skye exclaimed before we e all dashed after Snowflake. While so, we all saw some Changelings flying straight towards us.

"They've noticed us!" Mason called.

"This is a problem..." Nicole narrowed her eyes. 

"Ha! Like they scare me!" Jack cracked his knuckles and stood still before knocking out a few Changelings. He even punched one of them into the gut, making them screech out in pain before slumping down on the ground.

"I got this!" I raised my Hacking Gun at the next blockade of Changelings. "Paralyze!"

With help with the 'Paralyze' bullet, shocking all of the blockade and freezing them all in shock.

"Nice one Ren...!" Fluttershy smiled softly.

"Right! Now it's my turn!" Skye takes out her toy chopter and began controlling it with her remote. "Now! Fire at will!"

The toy copter fired multiple bullets and missiles, blasting and scaring off the blockade for good. Huh, for such a toy helicopter, it's quite useful...

"Alright!" Jack smirked, throwing off another Changeling over the wall. "Now come on! We gotta find Newbie!"

"Right!" Mason nodded. "Quickly, to the castle! We need to find her and the others as fast as we can!"

We all nodded before rushing towards the doors, and slamming it shut.

"Huh...Like what she did to the place." Rantaro muttered, tilting his hat. "Tch, maybe if I was a real estate agent, I'm sure any idiot would have the right mind to buy something like this."

"I would..." Nicole agreed.

"Not funny..." Rantaro scoffed. 

"Hey!" Skye called out to Sarah and Snowflake. "Here, kitty kitty kitty!" 

I...don't think that'll work Skye.

“This would be larger than you’re average kitty.” Rantaro deadpanned. 

"I think I see her over there..." Mason pointed over there, noticing a familiar cloaked pony and her pet tiger looking around the place. 

"Sarah, darling!" Rarity called out. "There you are!"

"Hey guys..." Sarah weakly smiled. "Sorry if Snowflake took me through here without warning. She must've heard the others." 

"I see..." Twilight hummed.

"So they're somewhere around the doors, but which one?" Jamie wondered, seeing the millions of doors across the hall.

Snowflake stopped at a hallway and there were many rooms.

"Ooh! What about this one?!" Pinkie raced over to one of the doors, and upon opening it, she saw something that made her mane and eyes popped wide open before closing it slowly. 

Umm...Is...is she okay?

"Um...Pinkie Pie?" Jamie called meekly. "Are you okay...?"

"WOW! That was a terrible surprise!" Pinkie gasped, taking a deep breath.

"...Or we can have Kodiak and Snowflake sniffed out their scent?" Nicole suggested.

"Yeah, I was gonna say that too..." Twilight nodded.

"Okay! You can leave it to me and my big nose!" Kodiak smiled before walking over to Snowflake. "Alright Snow, let's do this!"

Snowflake nodded before the two began sniffing around the ground before the two came upon a single door that was at the end of the hall. 

Snowflake sniffed the ground and went to one door and pawed at it.

“Are they in there girl?” Sarah asked, lifting herself up to see what was up. 

“Let’s find out.” Mason crossed his arms. "Carrie, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, hang on tight."

This is it...If this is the right door, then Chrysalis is on the other side, so we're going to fight her. Let's just hope we're all ready...

"Right...Let's do this, dude." I said, raising my Hacking Gun while Kaede readied her bow.

"I'm ready as well...Let's go." Kaede made a serious look before hee opened the door and we rushed inside, before seeing Chrysalis glaring down at the large green cocoon.

"Stop copying me!"

"Stop copying me!"

"I'm warning you!"

'I'm warning you!"

"Guards! Throw these miscreants in the dungeon...Now!"

"Guards! Throw these...missy-crates in the...wait what?" 

Those voices...It's Carrie! And Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom! As well as Scootaloo!

"Apple Bloom!" Applejack snarled at the Changeling queen. "Let her out of there NOW, Queeny!"

"Sweetie Belle! We're here for you!" Rarity gasped, seeing her sister in this state.

"Carrie!" Mason called, sighing in relief upon seeing her before glaring at Chrysalis, taking out his bamboo pole in the process.. "Oh thank goodness that you're still alright! Hang on, your big brother is coming!"

"Big brother! I knew you all would come!" Carrie cheered happily.

“Ah, so you’ve arrived.” she said, smiling down at us. There she was...Queen Chrysalis...It's been a month since we've last each other, but still...it still surprising to meet her again.

"Okay Chrysalis, we're here. We made it in time a day for your deadline...Hoof them over." Twilight demanded. 

"She's right...We're not sure what your plan to be honest, but it relates to the Secretariat Comet..." Jamie glared at the big queen. "But we want you to release our friends this instant!"

"Oh...Little Twilight...Little Jamie....I'm so glad you two could come..." Chrysalis approaches them before squeezing Twilight's cheek, mocking her and Jamie with a 'frown' of her own. "You're so much trouble for a couple of tiny things.  You don't amount to much up close, do you?"

"Twilight is twice the pony you are!" Yeah! You tell them Flutters!

"Yeah, and Jamie's much better than you, Chrysalis!" I agreed, supporting Jamie.

"T-Thanks Ren..." Jamie blushed a bit, clutching his notebook a bit. "But...Chrysalis, I don't understand some things...like why you would kidnap us. We know that this is a trap...but...there's somepony here that you needed."

"Ah yes...I guess you really have paid attention to some of these stuff." Chryalis smirked. "But you're right...There has been somepony else that I've been longed for...Someone that my friend gave me that tip when we last met...In fact, she's standing in this room already who's far superior than Twilight Sparkle, and even any of you."

"Where are you going with this...?" Skye asked. "You're making no sense! Just let my friends go or else I'll blow you away, you bug eye freak!"



Chrysalis lets out a sly smirk before saying “Alright then, I’ll release your precious siblings, for one condition.” 

“What’s that?” Jack growled. 

She turned to her head over to the one unicorn that we all should have expected to see.

“Hand over that unicorn.” She demanded, shocking us all.

“What?! No way!” Kaede exclaimed, shaking her head before readying her bow. "Wait a minute, why do you even need Sarah?! We thought you were gonna get Twilight and Jamie since technically, they beat you!"

"You're right...I was humiliated by those two crevices..." Chrysalis hissed before turning to a meek Thorax who was hiding behind Nicole and Rantaro. "Especially how one of my own kind has betrayed me for something stupid as that as 'friendship'."

Thorax looks down, feeling guilty and depressed by being called out for that.

"But...even with their power combined with the Secretariat Comet won't give me enough joy on vengeance...No, but I need to do something to impress my colleagues that's something simple as to destroy you all to make his way to the big leagues." Chrysalis smirked.

"And you mean...Sarah?" I asked in surprise. "But...I don't get it...Why...her?"

“Forget it, bastard!” Jack interrupted, glaring dangerously at the Changeling Queen. “Newbie’s not going anywhere with you.” 

"Wait...why do you want Sarah anyway?" Jamie asked. "I don't understand..."

"...You want her because you want to use her as bait for someone, right?" Nicole narrows her eyes at Chrysalis.

"Hmph...I guess that file about you is right that your observation skills is quite high." Chrysalis smirked.

"Huh? What do you mean? Made a deal with you?" Mason asked.

"It was Void wasn't it?" Sarah muttered, glaring at Chrysalis. All of us stared at Sarah in shock and surprise while Chrysalis simply let out a venomous smirk on her face.

She knew about Void?! But none of us told us about her?!

"Ah...so he was right. You do know him." Chrysalis chuckled. "He was awfully concerned for you..."

"Wait...Void? How do you know him Chrysalis?!" I demanded. 

"It's simple...He and I had a mutual agreement back then...and he was the one who suggested that I would attack Canterlot for my kingdom's sake..." Chrysalis smiled.

"I-It's true..." Thorax nodded. "He came one day and suggested that to us, and he even left her something...a bunch of files about you guys..."

"Files?!" I exclaimed.

"So I guess that explains how they could change into us." Nicole said adjusting her glasses.

"Wait...files of the nine of us?" Kaede asked in shock.

"What?! How could that even be?!" Skye exclaimed. "What is this logic that I'm wondering about?!"

"And Void..gave them to you?" Rantaro asked. "Heh, wonder where he could have gotten those?" 

"That is right...it gave out every bit of information about you all." Chrysalis smirked. "I never knew why...but as always, he used us as his pawns for something about collecting the darkness from the events occurring at Canterlot."

"Collecting...darkness?" I asked in confusion.

"Void feeds off of the darkness of other to become more powerful. He uses his dark powers to spread fear and despair to all who he affects." Sarah explained. 

"Fear and despair..." I muttered.

Is that...even supposed to happen?

"Yes...and he has big plans of Equestria that even I think it's most cruel." Chrysalis smirked. "Something about finding shards of a meteorite and using them to absorb dark energy..."

"...He's trying to call out to the Great Fall." Sarah gasped.

"The Great Fall? What are you talking about Private Gem?" Skye asked.

"The Great Fall..." Kaede muttered. "I don't know why, but I felt like I heard of that before..."

The Great Fall...That was something that Void told me about back at that watering hole in the Everfree Forest...So Sarah knows about it too? 

"Maybe it links to our lost memories..." Jamie muttered.

"The Great Fall..." Nicole muttered, covering her mouth and closed her eyes into deep thought.

"I don't know much about it, but he said something about some people he was acquainted by were planning on fulfilling that prophecy back then." Chrysalis smirked.

"Huh? Acquainted by?" I asked.

"The people who created Void." Sarah explained.

"Yes and in order to do that, he needs one thing out of the way." Chrysalis, lightning her horn. "YOU!" she fired at Sarah but Twilight countered with her own magic blast 

"Not so fast!" Twilight called. "I don't know what does Void have against Sarah, but you won't hurt our friend!"

"Yeah, same!" I agreed, taking out my Hacking Gun. "Sarah's our friend and you won't hurt her. As a matter of fact, you won't hurt anyone! Give us back Carrie and the Crusaders now!"

"Heh...this is just too perfect...Once you know the truth, you would think of who to blame." Chrysalis laughed.

What does she mean? Who to blame? Does she mean Sarah? But...why?

Chrysalis smirked before saying, "Now then...Let me make room for my little guest." 

She then blasted us and we were thrown against a wall with our hands and ankles bounded by the green slime before we were trapped in our own cocoon prisons!

Ugh! What!? She caught us off-guard?!

Snowflake growled at the changeling Queen, but a bunch of Changelings came out from their hiding holes before shooting green slimes at the tiger. Using his quick instincts, he manages to get himself and Sarah from them.

“Hahaha! There’s no more protection for you now. You might as well hand yourself over.” Chrysalis laughed. Ngh...I won't let her! 

"Ren! The Hacking Gun!" Huh?! I looked down and saw the Hacking Gun just outside of the cocoon I was trapped in! Wait what...?! Dang it, I must've dropped it from when she trapped us in here! Without it, I can't get it!

Kodi tried breaking us free, but it wasn't enough.

"No! It won't work!" Kodi whimpered.

"No bro, it's okay." I reassured, giving him a soft smile before frowning in concern towards Sarah and Snowflake, now that they were vulnerable.

However, Sarah didn't seem to be that scared. She instead narrowed her eyes and she managed to climb off of Snowflake, walking on her still recovering legs.

“I’m not going down without a fight, Chrysalis.” she said in a serious tone.

Fight?! S-She can't!

“Sarah, you can’t fight her, you’re hurt!” Kaede cried, banging hard onto the slime.

"Newbie!" Jack cried out. "Dammit kid, stop it!"

"Well....guess we're in a sticky situation." Rantaro sighed.

"Tell me about it, what the stick is this junk?" Skye growled, using her chopter to shoot through the slime, but it had no effect. "Come on! Ngh! Now this is just not fair!"

Chrysalis laughed and she fired a blast at her but Sarah made a shield with her magic, deflecting the blast. "Changelings get her!” she ordered and the changelings all charged Sarah. Snowflake then grabbed Sarah by the back of her neck and leaped high into the air, causing the changelings to crash into each other. 

Snowflake landed and Sarah readied herself for battle.

Suddenly, “STOP!”

Thorax got in front of Sarah.  

“Grr.. what are your doing back in my kingdom, traitor?!” Chrysalis exclaimed in anger. “You were a fool to return and now I can show everyone what happens when you betray the hive!” Chrysalis fired a blast at Thorax but Sarah countered with her own large blast, pushing Chrysalis' beam back and striking her hard. “GAH!” 

"Y-You saved me..." Thorax muttered. Sarah looked at him with a soft smile and replied, "Of course I would."

Chyrsalis growled before shouting. "Get her!"

The changelings lunged at her but Sarah's eyes suddenly glowed a little...W-What? What's going on? Is she gonna send out another attack?

As the Changelings were this close at hurting her and Thorax, she let out the loudest sound I have ever head, and that blasted all the changelings back! 

The entire room was shaking, even Chrysalis was spooked before being pushed back from the blast!

"Whoa...! What was that?!" I asked in shock. Okay, Sarah has to go explain that much about that!

"Impossible!" Chrysalis exclaimed, getting back up from the attack before snarling at Sarah. "How...?! This power...!!"

"You should know Chrysalis that you should never underestimate your opponents for selfish things like this." Sarah narrowed her eyes, shocking Chrysalis before seeing the venomous glare sent to the cloaked unicorn.

"You...Fine then, I won't bring you to Void as a way to impress him, I'll destroy you all!" Chrysalis screamed, showing how angry she was. Sarah readied herself for battle, but before she can dish out her attacks...

“Chrysalis, please stop! I beg of you!” Thorax got in front of Sarah, defending her.

"T-Thorax?" Nicole muttered, staring at Thorax with widened eyes. Is she...surprised? But...what for? I mean, I'm surprised too, but...

“Grr.. GET OUT OF MY WAY YOU TRAITOR! YOU HAVE NO BUSINESS IN MY KINGDOM! IN MY WORLD! IN MY PRESENCE!” Chrysalis exploded in anger. She fired a powerful green beam straight at Thorax, but then he quickly shot back with his own beam!

"UGH! GRRRR!" Thorax hissed, doing his best to fire back the beam, but it was slowly ready to hurt him!

"Thorax!" We all cried out, seeing him on the ground, seeing him about to be defeated! If he and Sarah doesn't get out of there, then...!

"See what happens now when you defy me?! I am your mother, your queen, your ruler! I know what's best for my babies, if you won't submit to my rule! Then I'll just eliminate your entire existence!" Chrysalis barked up a mad laughter, ready to destroy Thorax till...

"No...he won't!" S-Sarah?! Sarah walked up and placed a hand on Thorax's shoulder, glowing a bit. 

"W-What?!" Chrysalis widened her eyes.

“No harm shall come to Thorax!” Sarah exclaimed before we saw her eyes glowed, along with Thorax before the two started charging their attacks, slowly pushing Chrysalis back a bit.

"W-What...?! No...No...!" Chrysalis widened her eyes in horror.

"This energy..." Thorax muttered before glancing at Sarah, who winks before she turns to the rest of the Changelings and Chrysalis before she managed to use that roar again and blasted them all the way out of the room, knocking each of the guards out of the palace, even breaking free of each of our prisons!

Oh my crap-baskets...What just happened?! No seriously, what just happened?!

"W-W-What...?!" Jamie gaped.

"What was that?! How did Sarah do that?!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. "I mean, I know she's powerful, but that's-"

"Bananas!" Pinkie laughed, bringing out a banana peel from out of her mane.

"Ugh...it stinks..." Skye groaned.

"Hey, idiots..." Rantaro called with an annoyed look. "We're in the middle of a battle..."

Didn't need to be rude to us....

“Hey everypony...! Look at the sky!" Skye pointed over at the sky as we all looked up and gasped at the sight of a fainting star through the starry skies.

"The Comet!” Twilight cried out. “It's already here!"

"Wait a minute..." Jamie glanced over and looked over at Sarah, who was panting while Thorax and Snowflake stood by her side. "The comet must've increasing her magical powers! That explains just how she increased her power along with Thorax!" 

"So you are as powerful as Void claimed you'd be." Chrysalis slowly gotten up again, smirking at Sarah. “You’re more interesting than I thought. You possess magical knowledge I don’t possess. I have a proposal for you little pony...Your destructive abilities are wasted on the goody-two life style. You could be great. You could be… terrifying.”

“What are you talking about?” Sarah asked.  

“You. You will become my pupil. My peer! The things we could learn from each other as we rule this land and the next kingdoms will fall to our hooves.” Chrysalis said.  

Okay...now she’s lost it! 

“Sarah, no it’s a trick!” Kaede cried out.

“Don’t listen to her, Sarah!” Jamie pleaded. "She's just using you!

"No!" Sarah shook her head. "I'd rather be destroyed than joining with a monster like you!" 

"Then how about this, little one...You agree to stay with me and teach me the destructive properties of your magic and I will not harm your companions..." Chrysalis grinned darkly.

"NO!" I yelled. "Sarah, don't listen to her!"

"Same!" Twilight stepped over with a serious look. "You can keep trying, but Sarah would never do that. Neither will me or Jamie..."

"But think about it...You all could leave and I can release everyone...as you want..." No...This seems all way too easy for Chrysalis to just do that...I think she's planning something if she's the type of villain to do that!

"No!" Jamie shook his head, stepping up with a serious look. "These guys...everyone...they mean a lot to us and...and...we mean a lot to each other..."

"Exactly..."  I agreed, standing next to them. "Jamie, Twilight, Carrie, the crusaders, and all of us mean a lot, almost like a family...and they're all they got. I know maybe I still have a loving family, but these guys...each of them had something, and while we may have been strangers to each other from the very beginning, I know their feelings, what their hearts are really say, and the lives they went through...and I don't know what life Sarah must've went through...but that doesn't matter...what matters is stopping you..."

"...You're all such idiots." Chrysalis scoffed. "What do you each of you even know? What can't you all understand? You all are nothing...None of you even know each other...Oh well, now Sarah-"

"No." Sarah darkened her face, confusing Chrysalis before seeing the anger look on her face. "I’ll never join you Chrysalis! I’ll never teach you anything! And most importantly, I will never hurt my friends!” Sarah hissed, Snowflake roaring in agreement.

Chrysalis growled and scoffed, “Fine if you won’t join me…” she pointed her horn at Sarah. Oh boy...That can’t be good! “Say goodbye!” 

“NO!” We all cried. 

"No!" Thorax jumped in the way before using his own spit to create a cocoon shield in front of Sarah, managing to block the attack. "Leave her alone...!" Thorax cried out, glaring at his former queen / mother.

Chrysalis grew shocked and devastated by his sudden betrayal before growling, "You're choosing a pony over your hive?!" 

"Yeah...! They gave me the meaning of friendship!" Thorax exclaimed. "I was different from all of you, and nopony here ever taught me these things that I'm learning thanks to Ms. Nicole, Mr. Rantaro, and these guys..."

Thorax gives us a bright smile. It felt like I felt that smile before...that smile showed that Thorax was really giving out his real emotions...his real feelings coming out from his own heart...

"And I wouldn't betray my new friends." Sarah smiled proudly at Thorax while Chrysalis gnashed her teeth in complete anger.

"Well then, I'll show you what happens to those who betray the hive!" she fired a fiery beam at the pair but Sarah unleashed that giant powerful roar again and it countered the beam and actually destroyed it!

“If you won’t accept a new life...” Chrysalis lit her horn and aimed it at us.  “Then say goodbye to your life as you know it!”

"NO!" Twilight, Jamie, Sarah, and I quickly came in front of our friends and blocked her attacks with Sarah and Twilight creating a barrier to surround us from it.

"I’ll...never...say...goodbye!" She yelled as her horn lit up with power. 

"Exactly..." Twilight hissed, her eyes glowing and her horn sparkling with electricity before the two lifted in the air while me, Jamie, and the others looked up in shock. Twilight? What's going on? Is it because of the comet? I mean, we deduced that it makes anything go have a magic surge, which explains Sarah's increase in power, but is it increasing Twilight's power as well?!

"You aren't the onlly one that can feel the magic in them spiking...I can fight too!" Twilight hissed, smirking at Sarah before glaring at Chrysalis. "But you! You can't take away our friends nor ourselves!"

"Twilight! Sarah!" I called. "You can do it, you two! You two are one of us, a part of our family!"

"You're as important to us as we are to you Twilight..." Jamie placed a hand on his heart. "And...important to me...just as you think of me as an important person or pony in your life..."

"There isn't any pony better at magic than you! Come on!" Applejack cheered.

"Yeah! Newbie! Twi! Kick your bug butt!" Jack cheered.

"We believe in you two!" Kaede cheered.

"Come on you two! Get your heads out of the clouds!" Skye rooted for them!

"You got this you two!" Mason called.

"We're...best friends and family...!" Carrie pumped her fist in the air, cheering them on.

"W-What...? What's going on...with you two...?" Chrysalis widened her eyes, starting to feel frightened by their awesome power.

"Queen Chrysalis..." Sarah's eyes glowed, holding a hoof with Twilight. "You may think you can take everything from all of us. But the one thing you won't take is our friendship..."

“As well as the bonds we forged! The friends we've made! Our friends! And you'll never have Equestria!” The two of their horns lit up on the tips of their horns before glowing brightly and shot straight at the Changeling Queen, pushing her back before Twilight used her magic to grab onto Sarah before she curled up into a ball and launched herself as Chrysalis and started grinding her against her!

“Alright get her Newbie!” Jack cheered. 

“Show her who's the boss, Private!” Skye added.

“You’ll never rule in Equestria. You.. can’t.. Win.. this..” Incredible! Sarah was easily beating Chrysalis. Not even Celeste could beat her. Just how powerful is she?!

"N-NO...! I'm not supposed to lose...!" Chrysalis screamed in anguish, doing her best to push Sarah back!

"You don’t know what it is like to have friends. You could tell me what it is like to feed on love but you can’t tell what it’s like to truly love and be loved! You motivations are selfish. We fight because you know about things worth fighting for. Love! Friendship! We have things that you can’t hope to have. You envy us!" Sarah yelled. 

“Yeah, tell her Sarah!” Skye cheered.

Chrysalis yelled out in anger. “Spare me this nonsense!” 

“Ponies who can’t do things themselves tell others that they can’t do it… I can stand up to you…” Sarah glowed in a very bright white light.. “And I can… win!”  

“Oh boy! Hit the deck!” Thorax exclaimed. He dashed over and made a cocoon shield around us, excluding himself. However, before any of us could say anything...

"Ren!" Huh? I looked over and heard Sarah's voice calling out to me. "Use the Hacking Gun! Unleash its true power and finish it off!"

"Huh?!" I gasped before looking down at my Hacking Gun, seeing it still on the ground before quickly rushing over and picking it up. "Okay, I got it! Now what?!"

"Fire with all your might! That'll be the final blow against her!" Huh?! She wants me to what?! "Don't worry about me! I'll be alright! Put all your power into one final attack!"

One...final...attack....Okay Sarah...I trust you...and...even so...I know you'll turn out alright...Because even so, I know you can do it...despite all this, I know you'll be alright...

...You always do...

Charging my attack, I aimed my Hacking Gun straight at them as the Hacking Gun began sparkling electricity from all the energy glowing inside of it.

"You ready Ren?" Twilight asked, hovering down at me as her horn started glowing.

"...Yeah." I nodded.

"Can I...join in?" Thorax offered. "I too...want to help..."

"Me...too." Jamie offered his hand out, joining with the rest of us. I smiled at each of my friends before we aimed our guns straight at them.

Let's go...!

"HOPE LIVES ON!" We each yelled before firing each of our attacks together with my final Hope bullet straight at Sarah and Chrysalis, increasing more of Sarah's attack and...

BOOOM!

At that moment...we all finished up...and we ended it with a final attack...As soon as the bright light and smoke cleared off...we all knew it was all over...

When Thorax lowered the cocoon shield  for the others, we all witnessed that the entire place was all ruined, but when we saw Sarah... 

“Sarah!” I cried out in horror and worried before the rest of us raced over to her side.

Sarah was sitting on the floor, panting heavily.

“Are you alright?” Kaede asked in worried.

Sarah nodded, “I’m good.” 

Man...that was so crazy...did we actually do that just now?

Suddenly,  some rubble started to move and Chrysalis burst from the rubble, hissing.

“It’s over Chrysalis, you’ve lost!” Twilight growled.

“You may won this battle, but I shall win the war!” Chrysalis stated. "I'll be back...with an even bigger plan...which will work that'll end you all for good..."

“No you won’t.” Sarah said as she got up and glared at Chrysalis, “And now it’s time for you and your bugs to say goodbye,” 

"W-What?!" Chrysalis exclaimed.

Sarah's eyes glowed a little before letting out a massive roar and created a twister that sucked Chrysalis and her changelings into it and the twister took them far far away! 

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The Changelings and their queen were blown away out of their castle while we gawked in shock at what we just saw.

"T-They're gone..." I muttered in shock.

Sarah panted before semi-collapsing on the ground.

"Newbie...!" Jack called as all of us raced over to her aid.

"Are you okay?!" I asked in concern.

"I'm alright." Sarah said. Snowflake came over and nuzzled her. "Aw, Snowflake, I'm alright. Honest.."

"Sarah what was that roar you just did?!" I exclaimed in shock.

"That was my Roar of Harmony. It's a very powerful, mythical ability that I was given." Sarah explained. 

"Oh..." I muttered.

Wait, Roar of Harmony? That almost sounds like...Nah, that's too much of a coincidence...right?

"Seriously, is anyone else surprised by this?" Skye muttered. "First dragons from a movie exists, and now something like that even exists, is that even possible anymore!?"

"Nothing makes sense here..." Mason sighed.

"Especially Pinkie Pie." Jack stated.

"Hey!" Pinkie cried. "Oh, wait, yeah."

We all shared a laugh, letting all of the tension out of us and replacing with joyful looks.

"Sarah..." Sarah turned over to Nicole, who gives her a suspicious look. "Just exactly how do you know about Void?"

"...I'm sorry, but I can't tell you Nikki." Sarah shook her head. "I'm sorry..."

"Why not, Sarah?" I asked.

"...Because not yet...you all wouldn't understand much of what I might say..." Sarah shook her head. "You need to solve this yourself...to see the choice you would make...if your wills are strong or not."

"Oooh, she's foreshadowing again." Pinkie stated.

We all looked at Pinkie with strange expressions before we all shook our heads. Oh Pinkie Pie...

"That was really brave thing you did Thorax, protecting Sarah from your own mother." Twilight spoken over to Thorax, who was standing five feet away from us. 

"O-Oh...um...thank you..." Thorax nodded, blushing a bit.

"So...Nicole, Rantaro, you two were keeping him away from us?" I asked, turning to the two.

"Yes...and so far, I think he's doing well during our therapy sessions." Nicole nodded. "He's unique in a way, compared to the rest of the Changelings."

"And now that I'm officially a traitor, guess I have no where else to go." Thorax said sadly.

"...You could always stay at our place." I offered, shocking him.

"H-Huh? R-Really?" 

"Yeah, at our place." Kaede smiled. "You can still stay there."

"Mm-hmm." Nicole nodded.

"Really? But where will I stay?" Thorax asked.

"You can stay in my room." Nicole offered.

Thorax smiled happily at that suggestion before nodding, "Thank you."

"B-Big brother...?" Huh? Carrie?! 

We turned to see Carrie covered in slime with the other Crusaders. The older siblings all quickly raced over to the four of them, helping them out.

"Oh Carrie!" Mason hugged his sister tightly. "You're okay!"

"Big brother...?" Carrie looked over and softly smiled at the sight of us. "D-Did you beat her...?"

"Yeah...we did..." Mason sighed in relief, hugging his sister.

"You four are in so much trouble!" Rarity sternly called, glaring at them.

"Hey, what did we do?! It's not our fault that we were captured by them!" Sweetie Belle whined.

"Yeah, it just sorta happened!" Apple Bloom agreed.

"That doesn't excuse you four for getting caught like that...!" Applejack retorted. 

"Guys, go easy on them. They're just kids..." I chuckled, rubbing the back of my head. "I mean, they're just victims and what's important is that they're back safe and sound."

"Yeah, he has a point." Rainbow Dash shrugged. "Besides, I knew you would make it out alive Scoots!"

"Ha ha ha! Thanks! Wait...Oh my Celestia, I just gotten praised by THE Rainbow Dash!" Scootaloo giggled, feeling excited about it.

"Carrie...girls, are you all alright?" Mason asked in worried.

"Mm-hmm..." Carrie nodded, before feeling someone licking her. She glanced over at Kodiak and Snowflake, the two licking her face, which made her giggle.

"Hi Carrie! We thought we could clean ya up!" Kodi smiled happily, wagging his tail.

"Hee hee...Kodi...Snowflake." she greeted, petting the both of them. Snowflake purred while Kodi opened his tongue out in joy before the two nuzzled her back.

Carrie hugged both Snowflake and Kodi and laughs while the rest of us watches with smiles on our faces.

I'm glad that Carrie is saved...that's a major relief.





Later


With the girls saved and Chrysalis and the Changelings defeated once and for all...again, we all safely returned back to Ponyville via Twilight and Sarah's teleportation. Though, Sarah was in no condition, especially with her fight against Queen Chrysalis so we put her back in her bedroom to get some rest with Snowflake watching over her. 

We all were in her room, smiling and chatting about what we went through...

"That battle was awesome!" Scootaloo cheered. "Sarah easily bested Chrysalis with no sweat."

"Yeah..." I nodded before turning to her. "Seriously Sarah, you're total OP. Like someone who reaches to the highest level of an RPG." 

Mason sighed, "Grow up already."

"What?" I asked, shrugging a bit.

"How are your legs?" Jamie asked in worried.

"They'll heal in a few days. After that some physical therapy should get them to their regular strengths again." Snowflake came into the room and nuzzled the bandages. "Hehehe, now now Snowflake. I said I'll be fine." Snowflake let out a soft roar. 

"Hey, don't worry Snowflake." I reassured, petting her on the head. "She'll be alright." 

"How's Thorax settling in?" Sarah asked. 

"He's settling in just fine. I think he's gonna like it here." I said to her. "Well...until everypony in town knows that we're keeping a Changeling in here, and then they'll know that maybe not all Changelings are not evil."

"Good. He deserves a reward for all he has done." Sarah smiled softly.

"What do you have in mind?" Jamie asked.

"Well.. I think our friendship is as good as any gift we could have given him." Sarah smiled. 

"That's really nice Sarah." I commented, making a soft smile.

Sarah chuckled before I said, "We'll let you get some rest now."

Sarah nodded before we all began leaving the room, and into the elevator, and back to the living room.

"Big brother, Ren, is Sarah gonna be okay?" Carrie asked in concern. Mason gave her a reassuring smile before nodding, "Don't worry...like she said, she'll be back to normal in a few days..."

"Yeah, but what's more important is for all of us to get some shut-eye..." Rantaro yawned. "Man...I wasted three days helping you...you all owe me a quick buck or two..."

"As if..." Jack scoffed. "I just hope newbie's alright..."

"Mm..." Kaede agreed. "We all were practically useless in that battle...most of us didn't aid her in the final battle..."

"I know..." Jamie frowned. "I wished we didn't stand around and did nothing..."

"I agree..." I nodded in agreement. "I think maybe we all need to be ready for something like this in the future..."

"That I agree..." Mason nodded. "And this will be a reminder that I must protect all my closest companions for when I get submitted into the Royal Guard Academy..."

Oh right, May's almost over...I forgot...and at the last day...that's when Mason is gonna leave...

"Oh...right..." Kaede frowned. "Are you gonna be alright, Mason?"

"To be honest, I am not so sure..." Mason sighed. "But...I shall be alright...but I promise to come back as strong as ever for you all."

"Yeah, I know you can do it big brother..." Carrie softly smiled, hugging her big brother while the rest of us patted him on the back.

"I wish you good luck on your training, Private Mason!" Skye saluted, giving him a smile. "Don't worry, I promise to take care of Private Carrie as a friend!"

'Thank you..." Mason nodded. "But let's not worry about me, let's just all get some rest after that rough journey we all went through..."

Yeah...we've all been through a lot into this entire journey...and we've learned a lot from this entire trip...even if it felt fast, I think it was nice getting closer together...but Sarah...she knows more than she lets on...but at the same time, I can't blame for hiding things when she doesn't trust us yet..

"Sarah Gem..." I muttered, looking down a bit. "I don't know why...but...I feel happy for some reason."

"You mean about how she'll recover quickly?" Jamie asked.

"No...that's not it. It's just this feeling...of like...I lost something but then, I felt...happy to see it again..." I explained, placing my hand on my chest. "That kind of feeling..."

"You already have a girlfriend." Jack deadpanned.

"Not that kind of feeling?!" I exclaimed, blushing.

"Yeah...Ren has a point...I have that feeling too..." Kaede agreed. "Ever since we first met Sarah, I've been having that feeling too..."

"Yeah." Mason said. "Still I'm wondering how does she know about Void and how she's so powerful."

"She obviously has more magical abilities than any other unicorn. Even me." Twilight added, looking down a bit. "Her magic skills on an Alicorn level." 

"And I thought that fancy Amulet of hers was powerful." Applejack said. "That thing looked an awful lot like the Elements of Harmony."

"But there are only six Elements. Not seven. If there were, I would have read about it." Twilight stated.

"Same here..." Jamie nodded in agreement. "Something isn't right about her..."

Yeah...Just who are you Sarah Gem? And...why do we feel like...whenever we're around...we're happy to see you?

Hm? Nicole? I noticed her was looking at her iPad, looking a bit focused on it.

"Hmm..."

"Something up Nikki?" I asked.

"No, not at all..." Nicole replied.

But Rantaro wasn't convinced, "Do you find out something else?"

"....No." Nicole shook her head.

"Okay so now we know the Void has something against Sarah, but we don't know what exactly." I frowned, crossing my arms.

"So?" Jack huffed. "Who cares what the hell is in that damn creepazoid's mind?"

"Hello, he means Sarah is Void's main target and he might try something else to harm her or any of us!" Skye stated, glaring at him. "Come on Private Yamaki, get your head out of your behind!"

"Hmph!" Jack huffed, looking away.

"Yeah, we gotta do something!" Kodi barked in agreement. "We gotta protect her!"

"Why are you all acting so protective of that girl?" Rantaro asked. 

"Uh hello, she's the target of a crazy mad man, do you not remember what he did at the Crystal Empire?!" I exclaimed, exasperated. "Who knows what tricks he'll have up his sleeve to harm Sarah." 

"Plus newbie is our friend and I don't leave a friend hanging, you dirty money grabber." Jack added. 

"Unlike you, I actually get money." Rantaro stated annoyingly. "Besides, you all try to protect each other but you're all focusing on her more than yourselves." 

"And you're not the slightest concerned because..." Nicole lead on. 

"Because...she's suspicious." Rantaro asked. "I could go on for 500 bucks." 

We all gave him a deadpanned look, hearing his claim.

"And why do you think she's suspicious?" Jamie asked. 

"You idiots know it. She seems to know us and we all somehow feel like we've seen her before." Rantaro answered. "And she knows Void and Void knows her."

"True, but Void is obviously bad news. He gave Chrysalis files of us and he told her to attack Canterlot during the royal wedding." Kaede stated.

"While Sarah, on the other hand, helped us rescue Carrie and the others from Chrysalis and defeat Trixie and her Alicorn Amulet." Twilight added. 

"True..." Rantaro nodded in agreement. "But...she's still hiding something...But about those files..."

"Yes...I was confused." Nicole agreed. "Why were there files of us?"

“Uh, hello were you two listening, Chrysalis and her changelings used the flies about you guys so they could change into you guys.” Pinkie explained. 

"That's not what I meant....She said that Void gave it to them, but where exactly could he have gotten them about us?" Nicole clarified in a stern way.

"Yeah..." I nodded in agreement. "I mean...I don't get with some of us having files of us...it's just weird. If so, how could Void even have them?"

"He must have been spying on us for a while." Mason said. 

"I guess so..." I frowned. "But...why us? Is it because we each are special? 

"I guess...I mean, you and Jamie have cutie-marks on your cheeks." Kaede stated.

"Mm...Good point." Jamie nodded in agreement.

That is true...Just...what's going on? Why does Void want us so much?

"Did anypony else notice Sarah doesn't have a cutie mark on her flank, even though she's a mare?" Applejack asked 

"Yeah...I've noticed that too." Twilight nodded. "This doesn't make any sense...she's quite talented...so why?"

"Hmm..." I muttered, crossing my arms.

Sarah Gem...Who are you? 




Meanwhile

In the distance, Void was watching the home-ship.

"Pitiful Sarah...Why can't we get along? We are one...but your light is too pure...wasting time on thinking humanity is nice..." Void scoffed. "You are so worthless...but I know that you are afraid of me..." He held up his crystal that shimmered with dark energy. "I'm close...I am this close...to bring out the Great Fall to end this entire world...for the sake of the hope of salvation..." 

"Soon, they'll be nothing that goody two shoes can do to stop me." Void laughed before he vanished into the shadows.

To Be Continued
> Chapter 68 - Mad Bull Vs. Rainbow Striker!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Ngh....One more...and...yeah..."

Heh heh, finally finished up my workout. I've been working out, so? I've been keeping my muscles strong as ever, but I'm keeping my fat in. Heh, jealous? Sure you are...Right now, I've been doing my weight lifting here in that training room that opened up in the brat's room. Right now, I'm just working up to be sure nobody disturbs me...

"Hi Jack. What are you doing?" Huh? Oh, it's newbie. Heh heh, she must've walked in and saw me and been impressed. Well then...can't wait to see how she is.

"Huh? Oh it's you newbie...what?" I asked in a huff, putting my weight down. "And did you bring any snacks? I'm starving...French fries? Pizza? Any beer for me? Heh heh, or maybe some large burgers for me?"

I grinned, crossing my arms while my belly jiggled a bit.

That's when I noticed the look on her face, giving me a deadpanned look. What's up with her? "You know those foods aren't healthy for you, you know that right? You're not going to be strong eating those kinds of foods."

"It is for me." I snorted. “And how do you know they aren’t healthy for you? Tried any of them.” 

“Never.” Newbie said bluntly, shaking her head. 

Say what now? “You never had french fries, pizza or a burger in your life?” 

Newbie shook her head and responded, “I mostly ate fish and grass during my travels.” 

“Well you’re here with us now, Newbie and I’m gonna have you taste them, whether you want to or not.” 

“They’re unhealthy to eat all the time, Jack.” Newbie said again. 

"Trust me, I've been working out...and I'm planning on taking the gang for this wrestling match I heard that's taking place in town. Can you believe it?!"

Wrestling is one of my hobbies I've down back then. It is awesome for anyone in my family!

"Just gonna head out and ask them if they wanna come...After all, you are talking to a pro wrestler like me." I grinned cockily.

Newbie  raised an eyebrow at me and looked up and down at me and bluntly said, "Really?"

Okay, now that's smart talk!

"Oh, you think I'm not a pro?!"

"I'm just saying a healthier diet leads to a stronger body." the brat said nonchalantly.

"Oh really?!" I exclaimed, growling over at her. "Is that so?! Well too bad, I've been training by my dad and my uncles and aunts in the art of wrestling." I let out a smirk, leaning back in my chair. "In fact, I'm practically trying to get into the WWE, well as soon when we get back home." I shrugged. "So far, a couple of my cousins and uncles are in it, and I'm always wrestling any bastards or some of my family members and my dad back then...my fat has muscles, newbie."

“No.. your fat is fat." Newbie said bluntly, ticking me off more. Now them is fightin words!

"What...was...that?!" I hissed, clenching my fists.

"I'm just saying brute strength is not always the way to win a fight." Newbie shrugged nonchalantly.

Now that's a challenge! "Is that so...? Why don’t you prove it?” 

“Hmm.. alright. What do you have in mind?” Newbie asked. 

“Wanna have a match? At the wrestling match?" I challenged. "I told ya already that I'm a pro wrestler and the best fighter in the family, excluding my old man. Now you wanted fight me or forfeit, it's understandable that you're scared of me newbie."

"...If that's what you want. Then I'll go with you on the challenge." 

Oooh...That brat! Look at her, looking all calm and not acting like it's not a problem. Well I hope she likes a spanking or a wet willy once I'm through with her!

"Heh, you better change then newbie." I cracked my knuckles and stretched my arms. "Don't come crying when I sit on you on my butt."

"Yeah.... See ya." Then newbie walked away from me.

Ooh, that girl is So gonna regret challenging me.

Does she realize who she's challenging? I'm the heir to the leader to the Yamaki Gang, and the one who's gonna crush any of my rival gangs. Heh heh, I'll make her feel my wrath when I rub my victory into her face, literally.

So what if she's a unicorn or anything? I'm gonna mop the damn floor with her! Here I come Newbie! Jack Yamaki's gonna rock your world!




My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria


Heh, that newbie better be here in this ring because I am gonna mop the floor with her!

I had to take off my clothes and put on my black spandex compression shorts, right size for my butt and left my white tank top shirt on. I began stretching all over and patted my gut, waiting for her to come.

Hmph...She better show up or else. I mean, if she's such a scaredy cat, then it's understandable to come across towards a guy like me.

I mean, I'm one of the strongest guys in the gang back home. I've beaten almost everyone that I came across, well...excluding my dad. He's said to be one of the toughest leaders of the Yamaki Gang. I've done practice matches with him, but it always end with my face being covered by his...

Ah, what the hell? This isn't no time to think! When in the hell is newbie?!

"Alright, I'm here Jack." About damn frigging time, newbie.

I saw her come right out of the elevator, along with the pony girls, Ren, Jamie, and Kaede. Tch, what is she doing bringing them here?! This was supposed to be a private match between each other?!

"Sarah, are you sure you want to go through with this?" Twilight asked nervously.

"Yeah. Jack's pretty tough." Kaede added, frowning in concern..

“Yeah, we don’t want you getting hurt.” Ren stated, sharing the same concern as Kaede.

"I'll be fine." Newbie said nonchalantly before she took off her cloak and her Amulet and placed them neatly on the ground. I saw her coat was marshmallow white and her tail matched her mane; black with a rainbow stripe in the center and she did not have a cutie-patootie mark on her flank.

She doesn't have one? But don't any of these wimps always have a cutie-mark once they have something that they're good at?

"Huh? Look at her flank..." Rarity gasped.

"She has no mark..." Twilight widened her eyes.

"Was there anyone before that doesn't have a mark before?" Ren asked Jamie with curious look.

"No, I don't think so." Jamie shook his head. "But I don't understand why doesn't Sarah have one..."

Hmph, I don't care about that...All I care is teaching newbie a little something called 'respect'.

"Seriously? You're bringing them to watch the match?" I questioned.

“You said nothing about bringing company.” Newbie shrugged.

“Humph fine. It will be great to see them see me beat your butt.” I smirked.

“Overconfidence will be your downfall.” Pfft, overconfidence my behind. Like that'll stop me from beating your behind. Hmm...maybe I can give her a little spanking to make her realize who's the toughest around here.

"Hmm..." I stretched my back and cracked my knuckles. "Now I'm ready to sit on you till you're done for."

“Fine then. Let us begin.” Newbie stood still, getting ready to fight me. This is my chance! Here I come!

I charged her ready to squash her when she leapt over me and kicked me in the back with her hoof, kicking me straight in my behind!

“Ugh!” I caught myself on the ropes before glaring back at the pony, seeing the newbie landing in the middle of the ring. ring.

“Woah, that was a good move.” Ren commented. 

“Ooh, your gonna regret that.” I hissed.

“I think not.” Newbie grinned. Grrr, that little...! 

I roared at her and charged her once more but this time she stepped to the side and I missed her and ran into the ropes of the ring.

“Grr…. Hey!” I exclaimed. 

“Always attacking is not the way to win a fight, Jack.” Newbie scolded.

“Pfft...Save that for when I beat you!” I shouted before I charged straight at her, my blood pumping angrily! If she thinks that she can take me take down that easily, then she's got another thing coming! She just stood there, waiting for me before I made a smirk. She then turned her back around and prepared to apple-buck me in the tush!

Nice try, like I'll fall for that trick again newbie! I quickly dodged it before I managed to land a hit to the side of her, pushing her back to the ropes, stretching her out before charging straight towards me! Now's my chance! Take this!

I used my gut and slammed her into the air! Ha ha ha! Not so amusing now, eh newbie?!

However, my little victory was changed as she somehow quickly recovered and landed on top of the metal poles, looking down at me with a small smile and said, "You were saying?"

Ah...! I-I-I can't believe it.....She...She just...How?! 

"Are you done now? Okay, my turn!" Sarah grinned before she leaped off the pole and charged back at me! 

"Tch...Oh yeah?!" I hissed before trying to headbutt her with my...uh....well, head, but she got underneath of me and actually tossed me into the air!

"AAAHHHHH!" I screamed, flipping back and forth while in mid-air while the others stood there in awe.

“Holy crap baskets!” Ren exclaimed in surprise. "She...managed to flip Jack in the air?!"

While I was flinging to the air, newbie then leaped into the air and headbutted me in the stomach and I came crashing down onto the middle of the ring floor.

“Ugh... ouch.” I groaned. 

Newbie landed right next to me and looked down before asking, "So do you wanna surrender?"

W-Wha...? How...dare she ask me that! That little good for nothing little...!

"N-No...." I groaned, slowly getting back up and glaring at her direction. "I ain't quitting!"

I stretched my arms before trying to slug her with my fist, but she dodged and landed on the ropes.

"Jack, that is enough. You need to calm-"

"No! I ain't gonna lose to some damn brat!" I yelled, charging straight at her before she leaped across from me as I stopped myself and felt the ropes withstanding my weight before I looked back and saw newbie landing in the middle of the ring. Heh...She thinks she can get away with that?! Well I got another thing coming!

"Prepare to feel my wrath, newbie!" 

I quickly stretched across the ring, and swung straight by the back to her! It's a simple idea by yours truly. I'm gonna charged from my behind, smashed her into a pole and give her a smothering that she'll regret messing with me!

However...what I didn't count...was how she was gonna get back at me.

She let out a smirk before turning around and extended out her back-legs and...

WHACK!

"YAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

Everyone in the crowd winced before I fell face-flat, landing back towards the pole and was slammed against it....Ow...my nose...and I think I lost a tooth back there....

For what newbie did, she apple-bucked my butt into next month with an incredible powerful hit, sending me flying straight into the pole...

Ugh...

Newbie gazed over at me with a frown before stepping out of the ring, and put her cloak and Amulet back on but she kept the hood down.

“Nice fight.” She said bluntly, leaving everyone in shock.

"Ngh...W-wha...? Ngh..." I slowly got up and stared at newbie in shock, ignoring the pain coursing through my head. "H-How did...?!"

“I used your large size to my advantage. I used your momentum from your charging to launch you into the air when you charged me. Simple fighting ability; using your opponents size to your advantage and please don’t leave yourself open like that.” Newbie explained to my shocked look.

I-I can't believe it...S-She used my...own strength as an advantage to her!? But...I'm supposed to be the strongest around here!

As for the others, they looked impressed more than concern for me!

“Woah.. that’s a pretty smart move, Sarah.” Ren blinked, surprised by her explanation.

“I have to agree.” Jamie added. "Using Jack's strength against himself was quite something I never thought of..."

"Heh, she's got you beat fatty." Skittles smirked at me before I snarled at her.

"Shut up!" I roared before huffing at her. "Just forget it...I'm out..."

Can't believe it...I lose to someone that's not human, and worse, it's a girl! How the hell is that any better?! Ugh! That little...!

I quickly put on my coat and began stomping off.

"Jack wait...It wasn't a competition, I mean, you and Sarah were fighting for fun." Ren called, earning a scowl to me.

"Well for me, it was terrible!" I shouted, making him flinch a bit.

"S-Sorry....I didn't know. But don't take it too seriously." He frowned worriedly.

Tch, like you can understand...Ow...Tch...

"Jack..." Oh great, here she comes, walking by and ready to gloat it at my face. If she thinks-“At least you can use this fight as an experience for future battles, Jack so you can become stronger than what you are now and I know you will.”

W-What? I looked over at Newbie, who gave me a soft smile. She wasn’t gloating like I thought she would.

“Now if you’ll excuse me.” She let out a yawn. “I’m gonna go take a walk.” She went to the elevator and she was gone at that moment.

"....." Why would she bother to do that? I'm supposed stronger than these guys...and yet I get my butt handed to me by her, a girl...but...she was just trying to encourage me....

Letting out a sigh, I decided to take my leave and headed over to the elevator...

"Jack? Are you going out too?" Kaede asked.

"What does it look?" I grumpily asked.

"Well chill out dude, it's just one lost. Even I can take one..." Oh sure, like you can Skittles! "By the way, nice hoof-print tattoo..."

"What?! What tattoo?!" I exclaimed, looking behind to see what was up!

"Oh nothing you need to worry about!" She kicked me from the behind, causing me to yelp before glaring at the laughing pony.

"You little...!" I quickly tried grabbing her, but she flew away from me and just continued to laugh while the others shook their heads while I growled angrily. I'm so gonna get her soon...

"Well...do you wanna talk about it, Jack?" Ren asked. "I mean, we can come-"

"Just shut up!" I yelled, scaring him a bit before the elevator doors closed. Tch, I don't need any of those punks...I can do this myself...I don't need those losers.



Later

Tch...Can't believe it....That newbie...she beaten me...I can't believe that I actually lost like that...That isn't fair... 

After I left the home-ship, I was taking a stroll around town, feeling a slight breeze through it.

"...Me? I'm already strong...am I?" I sighed.

I've always been the strongest in the family, trying to be as prideful and strong as my dad. I couldn't even let my family down, not their expectations...not anything...I had to be the leader to continue the Yamaki Family tradition...

But here I am, sulking over some petty loss...Heh, I guess I really am pathetic....

Suddenly I heard a small roar behind me as I turned around and saw Newbies’ white tiger looking at me curiously.

“What do you want, marshmallow?” I asked with a slight growl. Surprisingly, instead of growling at me, the tiger came up to me and nuzzled my cheek.

"What? Why...?" I asked in surprise. Why is newbie's pet tiger being so nice to me? The tiger looked at me and I looked at it and for some reason I could see sympathy in its eyes like it knew what I was going through.

"Huh? Guess you lost your fair share of fights too huh?" I asked.

The tiger nodded.

"Huh...I see...Well what are we gonna do, huh? It's kinda no fun losing..." I huffed, walking across town with the tiger following me. "Man...what am I ever gonna do?"

I don't wanna admit my feelings that easily to them...my personal feelings...it's hard...besides, I bet they're all still laughing at me for losing to a girl...just like with Skittles...

"You two just don't know when to quit, do ya...?" What the? Wasn't that just...newbie...?

Suddenly, I began hearing more and more yelling. Wait a minute....I know all that sound. It's a fight and it sounds like it's coming all the way over to the edge of town. I went over and saw Newbie facing off against two other buff looking unicorns. She yawned again and I could see she was tired and in a fight that was not good.

"Newbie!" I shouted, gaining her attention as I quickly rushed over and grabbed the two unicorns by the horns. "Hey, what the hell do you think you're doing?!"

“What do you want?” The first unicorn asked.

“We’re gonna teach this mare what happens when someone steps into our turf.” His partner says.

“Well I won’t let you hurt Newbie, got that?!” I exclaimed in anger and threw the two down in the ground. "Now get out of here or else!"

However, the two unicorns got back up and growled at me, giving me death glares.

“So you wanna go?” The one unicorn threatened. Oh yeah? Well guess what...You just messed with the wrong human to fight with pal...

ROAR!

Huh?! What the?! What that marshmallow cat want now?! Newbies’ tiger got in between us and roared at the unicorns, who both widened their eyes before they each screamed in fear at the sight of her and ran off!

"Ah..." I muttered, blinking in shock at what they just did. They...seriously ran? Straight away from a tiger? Pfft... "Hahahahahahahahaha!"

Those suckers! Ha ha ha ha! Man, and they call themselves the big bad unicorns of this side of town!

"Are they gone...?" I stopped my laughter before turning to newbie, who was yawning again.

“Are you alright?” I asked, coming towards her.

“Yeah...yawn...just tired.” She responded, looking exhausted. Damn, what the hell happened to her? Tch, no time to think about that. What's important is to help her out.

"Mm...Hey, you want me to carry you?" I offered. "You know...Um..."

“Okay....You can carry me.” Huh, quick answer there newbie. Letting out a nod, I picked her up and brought her back to the home-ship.

"Jack?!" Kaede called in shock. "What's wrong with Sarah?!"

"She's fine, just needs some rest." I huffed, passing by the others.

"Okay...?" Ren frowned. "You sure you don't wanna talk about it? Want us to-"

"No!" I hissed, entering the elevator, leaving the others behind while those two brats looked worried.

Tch, like I would care for them, not that I do. Eventually, I brought newbie back to her bedroom, placing her back on her bed.

"Thank you Jack..." Newbie softly smiled.

"No problem..." I nodded before putting my hands into my pockets. Huh? What the? Oh...It's the tickets I bought for the wrestling match downtown here in this pony town. I was gonna bring the others but...

...I think they aren't interested to go with someone who lost right plain flat to a girl like her...

Hearing her soft yawn, I gave her a soft smile. Heh, she's always this cute when she's sleeping...

Mm...Always? Tch, why the hell would I say that? I barely know this girl...

"Oh Jack...are those tickets...?" Newbie questioned, noticing the tickets in my hands.

"Oh...yeah..." I nodded before taking a deep breathe. "Hey newbie...once you're fully awakened, there's this match on the other side of town...I was wondering...if you like to come."

Jeez, why the hell am I nervous? I can feel my heart beating.

“....Sure Jack...yawn.” Newbie responded back to me, letting out another yawn.

"Mm...Want me to keep you safe here?" I offered.

"Hmm.. I think I'll be fine. Beside, I have Snowflake and the others." Newbie reassured.

"Hmm...Well do you wanna come?" I offered. "Tomorrow night? Just the two of us. The others aren't interested...They're too busy...Even Skittles."

Tch, and I rather not invite them when they aren't even gonna go with a loser like me...

"Sure, I'll come. So what exactly do ponies do at these... wrestling matches?" Newbie asked.

"Think of it as the WWE!" I laughed, scratching the back of my head. "And if you think it's fake, it's real! Trust me, I wrestle with my dad everyday...with me under his bu-"

Before I say more, newbie suddenly zipped my lips.. Literally, she turned my lips into a zipper and zipped them shut.

Mm! That dirty little...! Grrr...! What the hell?! I can barely saw anything!

"I'm not into those kinds of topics." Newbie replied with a deadpanned look. I mumbled a ‘Hey’, glaring at her direction. Newbie let out a sigh before she undid the spell. "But I'll join you in this wrestling competition. And I'm guessing it's one of those 'No Magic allowed' competitions, right?"

"Mm-hmm...but it's mostly consists of Earth Ponies..." I shrugged.

"Alright.. so what time does the competition start?" Sarah asked.

"9:00 P.M. Tomorrow."

"Okay, I'll rest up and then I'll be there." Sarah shrugged.

"Okay...you better be newbie or else." I huffed, getting up and taking my leave.

"Yeah yeah I’ll be there.” Tch...You better...Because...To be honest, you're the only one so far that I can trust...

The others...I can't confront them...I mean...how would they...?





The Next Day


Mm...Alright...*yawn* Let's hurry this up...

"Hey Jack..." Oh goddammit...What now? I glanced over at the table and saw Ren and the others walking by, excluding the broker and psychologist.

"Ah Jack, I never suspected you to be here this early..." Mason stated. "Normally, you just stay asleep till you smell the food I cook..."

"I didn't need your cooking brat." I scoffed, eating some meat. "I gotten this from that food court, now what the hell do you idiots want?"

"Jack, you aren't still grumpy from losing to Sarah yesterday, right?" Kaede asked in worried. 

"Hmph..." I snorted, ignoring their concerned looks.

"Come on Jack, we just wanna talk to ya..." Ren pleaded. "You can tell us...it's alright to tell us how you feel..."

"I don't that easily..." I scoffed. "And I mean it..."

"Mm...Jack..." Carrie frowned. "We wanna help..."

"You can help by leaving me alone..." I growled, managing to finish my hamburger. "Now excuse me, I got someplace to be..."

"Where's that...?" Mason asked.

"None of your business. Besides, don't you got some time to waste before ya gone?" I felt the kid staring back at me with a slight glare, but I just plain ignored it and began walking off till the small brat got in my way.

"Hey! You can't leave!" Skye exclaimed with a serious look.

"Out of my way, shrimp." I narrowed my eyes, glaring down at her.

"Not till you tell us what's up!" Skye demanded.

"Like hell I'll tell you!" I yelled.

"Well maybe you should!" 

"Well guess what?! I don't have to! Now out of my way shrimp, or so help me, I'll gladly beat you up with my fists!"

"Jack, Skye, that's enough!" Ren called, getting in between us. "Look, you guys aren't gonna solve anything by yelling..."

"Good, now out of my way brat." I sneered down at the orange hair brat we call a leader around here. 

"But Jack, we just want to help." Ren offered. "I mean, we don't have to fight like this. Let's-"

"Let's what? Laugh at me?" I snorted.

"What are you going on about?" Mason questioned. "Are you still complaining about what happened yesterday with Sarah? Jack, you shouldn't be discouraged like that. You should..."

"I don't need to hear it from ya, bodyguard." I don't want them to just keep laughing it up. These guys aren't interested in me, they're probably thinking that I'm not the strongest...

"Jack..." Carrie frowned sadly, noticing how upset I was. "Do you wanna talk about it...?"

"...No. Goodbye." I scoffed, taking my leave and headed out, ignoring what looks they were giving me while I headed out into town. I didn't care anymore, what I do care is that newbie better come there tonight. As for me...I'm heading out to train...



Later

.....*sigh*....This sucks...I was busy hanging around Ponyville to wait for tonight when this contest gets started...

The thing is, it's more than just a wrestling match to us...In fact, I hear wrestlers from all over are coming here to try this out and fight with each other for entertainment and their fans. I've hear about some wrestlers' names....

And...I gotta admit, they're more unique than some of the WWE names or any other wrestling names. I remember some of the names like the Griffondor, Pony Smasher, Pega-Mysterio, Uniknight, and some other names. Hmm...Guess it's nice to know that these ponies know how to fight instead of being the cowardly losers they are.

"Hey fatso." Oh great, I just bumped into the one man  I hated. Letting out a huff, I confronted him with a glare and exclaimed, "What do you want you moron?"

"Ha ha ha, just wanted to pay you a visit." Rantaro smiled innocently. "You must feel pretty crappy and embarrassed to lose to someone like Sarah, or somepony..."

"S-Shut up...!" I hissed, grabbing him by the tie. "You listen here! I can still crush you like a grape!"

"Wow...nice comparison to me over a single little grape." Rantaro rolled his eyes. "Please, I know you're still mourning...After all, I've seen your match."

W-Wha...? He was there...Tch! Of course he is! Idiot! That bastard would be watching what we're doing right now...

"...And so what, bastard?" I huffed, pushing him away and placed my hands into my pocket. "I don't care if I lost that badly..."

"I'm pretty sure that you still haven't recovered from your humiliation." He snorted, rolling his eyes. "Thought I might find you here, you still to be in deep thought and seeing you stuffing your face with some sweets."

Oh yeah? And what if I do?! Tch, I've stashed them from after I bought them from the pink crazy idiot by that bakery shop...Tch, I don't wanna know remember much, especially....yesterday...

"Mm...You seem quiet, surprisingly." Yeah, got a problem with that? "You still haven't recovered from your embarrassment against that pony, eh?"

"Yeah, so?" I scoffed, looking away in an annoyance.

"Mm..." He hummed for a moment, putting his hands in his pockets. "I see...Now you understand what it feels like a sore loser...You're imagining those guys might hate you for being weak. Truth be told, maybe so..."

"What?!" I growled, turning my attention to him.

"Heh..." He smirked. "Maybe if you start taking things serious and stop being too overconfident in yourself, you could get stronger. Possibly even more so than the enemies we fought, or even that masked man..."

Masked man...That creep, Void? I don't know anything about him...So then, why do I have this feeling in me like I do? And why is it....that every time I think about him, I get this eerie yet scared feeling in my chest....

"Look, why the hell are you even here?" I hissed. "Are you here just to frigging mess around with me, you little punk?!"

"See that right there?" Rantaro sighed, scratching his head. "I think your problem is that you keep thinking that being the strongest to make yourself feel included in the group will make you happy...but in the end, you aren't...You feel like that being all tough and manly is gonna make you friends, but it'll mostly rub people in the wrong way."

Huh?

"If I were you, you should stop lying to yourself and just tell them how you really feel." Rantaro sighed, rubbing the back of his head before smirking at me, "That is, if you can try...Ironic that a tough guy such as yourself who wants to give out honest and blunt answers right out of his head without thinking could lie about his issues about being the strongest."

"S-Shut up...!" I hissed, looking away with a slight blush. So what if that's true?! I don't care! I don't need anyone to know about that! Not those brats! Not newbie! Not those ponies! Not Skittles and not even you, creep!

"Fine..." He let out a sigh, rubbing the back of his head. "Be that way...I'm out...but I think you listen to my piece of advice, as well as your new friend...Just a little reminder in the future...By the way," He lets out another smirk at me. "Good fight yesterday with 'newbie'. Good thing she kicked you in the butt real hard to leave you in the butt. I can possibly what's it like if she kicked you in the crotch...Oh man, would that truly hurt your manly pride."

"YOU LITTLE!" Okay, that's it! Time to die!

As I gotten up and prepared to whack this bastard upside the head...

"WATCH OUUUUUUUUUUUUUT!" What the-?

BAM!

UGH! Damn it! Ow...

"Well...Looks like you two are busy..." H-Huh? W-What? Where...? Huh? Ah!

"Ohhhh..." Oh what the hell Skittles?!

"H-Huh? What the?!" Skittles widened her eyes, seeing herself on top of me...

....Uhhh...you know, the way we're position right now is a lot different than last time when she nearly broken my ribs...I managed to endure it, heh...and the way we are...it almost as if we're-

"Get off of me!" Skittles hissed, kicking me in the gut and flew up, glaring at my direction. "What the heck were you doing getting in my way of practice?!"

"You got in my way!" I hissed back, getting back up while rubbing my gut from the spot she kicked. "And besides, I was here minding my own damn business, no mind you."

"Well stay out of my way, stupid fatty!" Skittles scoffed.

"Well you're stupid for calling me stupid, stupid Skittles." I gave her a death glare, but she started to retorting me back!

"Well you're stupid for calling me stupid, stupid!" What the hell!? That's just what I frigging said, you idiot...! "Ugh, listen, I got no time! I'm trying to train!"

"Train? For what?" I huffed, looking not interested but I was willing to listen, at least, for a whole minute or less.

"None of your business! Ugh, you're lucky that we didn't end up in the hospital!" Skittles snorted. "Like seriously, I do not need to end up getting bored for another three days or so because of you getting in my way!"

"Heh, maybe once you saw me, you decided to go a little too easy on me." I smirked.

"S-Shut up! You got kicked in the butt by Sarah!" Upon mention that, I started gritting my teeth angrily at the mention of that! 

"S-Shut up! And keep my butt out of this!" I hissed angrily. "What happened wasn't my fault!"

"Sounds like that..." Why you little...! I tried reaching out to her in hopes of beating her up, but she was a slippery one! "Dude, chill out! Come on, don't take it the wrong way."

"Oh, coming out of you, I take it?" I snorted angrily before grumbling, "You seem like the type to easily take your anger out on almost anypony..." 

"...Okay, you make a good point." Yeah, that's what I thought. "Anyway, just be glad that we didn't manage to injure each other..."

"Tch...Whatever..." I scoffed. "Get out of here before I lose my temper again."

"Smart decision for the strongest guy." Skittles teased, nudging me. "Jeez, come on, it's just a lost, so calm down and quick your whining..."

Easy for you to say...What can I possibly do? Tch...

"Oh! Did you hear about a little competition that's taking place later tonight?" Skittles asked, smirking at me. "Apparently, almost every wrestler is coming to town and I'm gonna be down there, and plus, they'll allow sign-up for any participant..."

"Huh?" I looked over to her, surprised to hear that. Is that true? How could she...? "Yeah...what about it?"

"Well...Who knows? Since I thought you love wrestling, I thought that maybe you could join...but then again, it would be weird for a human to join in...I mean, it wouldn't be fair..." Skittles smirked. "I mean, you could easily pulverized through the competition."

"Heh, well I bet I can do that..." I smirked before frowning, "So why you telling me this?"

"Just thought you wanted to be interested in it." Skittles smirked. "Are you gonna head out there?"

"Huh?" I asked in surprise. "Oh...well..."

"I mean, you have to go there, right?" Skittles pressed. "Why us do you have those tickets?" Huh? Oh crap! She saw that?! "So you are heading out? Tickets for two, eh? Going on a bro night with one of your guy friends or a date with some of the girls, because I think you're way too old, fatty."

"It's nothing like that!" I grew a tick mark on my forehead, clenching my fists. "Look, I have no time...Besides, so what if I do decide to go? It ain't your business...So just go away..."

"Fine..." Skittles rolled her eyes before looking over at the blue skies. "Oh, I gotta go! Got some work back! Bye fatty and try not to take it too far with your lost with Sarah!"

Grrr...! Did I ask ya to let me be reminded of that?! Ugh...This is just humiliating...Ugh...just be glad that she didn't insult me anymore. Besides, like I would want pity....Hmph! Why the hell am I focusing on that?! Screw what those guys tell me! Right now, I rather focused more on heading over and see what these ponies can do to fight.

Now then...I better get ready and head out for it...

Before I could leave, I took out the tickets and looked over through it. Hmm...I bought these yesterday because I love wrestling, and I don't care if people say that wrestling from the WWE is fake, even if its fake, it feels so real to my eyes...Honestly, being tough makes me feel a lot better...

Tch...This ain't no time to keep moping around like that, I got a match to watch...





Later

Tch...Where the hell is newbie? She's already wasting time with me....She better be here.

"Hey Jack, I'm here." What? Oh! About damn time you showed up. I turned around and saw Newbie walking over to me, keeping her hoodie still up and had that cat to her side.

"About damn time..." I huffed. "Where have you been?"

“Training.” Sarah said simply.

"Training?" I asked in confusion. Sarah nodded, and just walked past me into the entrance of the small arena. What the? Training for what? Well...fighting, I guess...

Well whatever, let's head in. 

Soon after I managed to put my tickets in, we both headed inside of the place before we found seats at the very back for some real action...Wait, wouldn't the front be alright? Know what, never mind...Right now, let's get into some wrestling action already! We're already seeing a match between two Earth Ponies, the Big Pony and Rily Tyler! 

"Heh heh..." I smirked. "It's just like last time...I really wanted to join in on the wrestling league back home..."

“Yeah.” Newbie. I let out a sigh before watching two of the contestants with one of them looking quite tough were giving a pony a body slam after falling on top of them from the top of a ring.

"Ha ha! That was a nice body slam!" I laughed.

“So is this supposed to be just for fun, Jack?” Sarah asked curiously, watching the two ponies fighting each other to the death.

"Hell yeah! It's really entertaining...!" I smirked confidently. "People sometimes love wrestling because it's entertaining at it's very best. It contains all aspects of almost every other entertainment medium. Action and drama and any kind of exciting emotion...But some idiots think wrestling is fake...well I think it's real..."

“Okay so when do we participate?” Newbie asked

"Huh?" I asked. "Wait...compete? A-As...in us?!"

“Isn’t that why we came here? To compete in the wrestling competition?” Newbie questioned.

"W-Well...more like watching..." I admitted, rubbing the back of my head. "But still...I'm not sure...I mean, a little pony told me that I wouldn't even allow me to compete and not because of my weight...it's a pony-only wrestling league. It's not like I can compete one..."

“Well maybe.. I could compete in this competition?” Newbie suggested, surprising me a bit. What the hell? Why is she suggesting that?

“But you're not an Earth pony.” I stated. I mean, how the hell can she-Huh? Then Newbie’s horn glowed and her whole body was encase in a bright light and suddenly her horn vanished!

“There now I am.” She smirked in relief.

“Hold the phone! What the hell did you just do?!” I exclaimed.

“A simple Change Species Spell. It allows me to change from a unicorn to any other creature I choose.” Newbie explained, like it was a matter-of-fact.

What the?! No way...! But wait...what about frigging me?! Tch...!

"Wait a minute, why is it that you who gets to compete alone?!" I exclaimed. "I should too...!"

"But like you said, it's pony only." Sarah stated. "But maybe I can help..."

"Tch..." I scoffed, crossing my arms. "Whatever..."

Like you could...Getting humiliated by her...and yet, she tries to help me...It's embarrassing enough that I need help, but she has a point...If I am ever want to compete in a wrestling league...I need to become a pony, but...how...

...Oh...

"Ohh..." I let out a groan, placing a hand on my head.

"Hm? Jack? Are you okay?" Sarah asked in worried.

“I’m fine. Just a small headache.” I groaned. Suddenly, Jo Jo popped out of my coat pocket and climbed up to my face and nuzzled my cheek in worry. "Hey...I said I'm alright Jo Jo..." I coughed before I began feeling dizzy. "Oh...H-Hey...Newbie...I think I need the bathroom..."

“Okay. Do you want me to come with you?” Newbie asked.

“N-No. I’ll be fine.” I coughed.

“Okay, I’ll be waiting here.”

I quickly headed out of the place before entering the bathroom, looking at the window with a pale look on my face.

"W-What's going on...? Why...am I looking like that...?" I muttered before slowly succumbing to the pain. "Ugh...my head...Ugh..."

Wait...haven't something like this...happened?

Ugh...My eyes...They're...closing...No! Hold it still! Grr! Dammit...



"Jack...! Jack...!"

.........N-Ngh...my head...W-What?

I opened my eyes to find Newbie looking down at me, looking all worried before asking, “Are you alright...?”

Do I look anything alright...?

"Y-Yeah...What happened...and...why the hell are you in the bathroom?" I questioned groggily.

"Well...you were taking so long...and I knew something was up." Newbie stated. "And...um..."

"What?"

"You...should at yourself..." Sarah grinned before pulling out a mirror, revealing my face.

At that moment...

"WHAT THE-?!" My felt my entire jaw dropped to the ground, staring at my reflection. I...I...was a pony! An earth pony!

I was still wearing my biker clothing but I saw I was browns with my hair color as my mane as tail.

“This crap again?!” I yelled out in frustration. Great, this is that dragons' incident all over again!

“Again?” Newbie asked.

“Yeah." I snorted, looking away while trying to lift myself up. "Me and the other losers got turned into dragons somehow a while before you came here.” 

Sarah stared at me, blinking a few times before replying, "Huh..."

Huh?! Is that you got to say?! Oh come on! When does anything not scare you, newbie?!

"Well...I guess you still look and act like yourself, as well as your...weight." Sarah snickered, confusing me before I asked, "What?"

Sarah showed me the mirror again and I saw what she meant; My weight. Apparently, I was still husky and round shaped. Phew...Well at least I didn't lose any of my packs, even if I have transformed into a pony.

"Phew..." I sighed. "Well...I guess that's alright, but still, being transformed into this...I...I don't know why the hell this happened."

"Well, look on the bright side now you and I can compete in the competition." Sarah smiled.

"Hmm..."

Yeah....Heh heh heh...I think something similar to happened to us...We wanted to see what was going on at this Dragon Migration thing, and then we get turned into these forms...However, as soon as what we did was done, we reverted back to our old selves. So maybe....This could be one of them. Ha! I'm a genius! Heh heh, now this will be fun after all!

I slowly began making a big grin, feeling excited about this.

“Well.. are you in?” Newbie asked.

“Hell yeah!” I exclaimed but before I could run out, Sarah stopped me in my tracks and yelled, “Wait!”

“What Newbie?” Oh, can't you see that I'm about to fight for all I got against these fools! 

“Where are you gonna put JoJo? You can’t exactly have him with you in the competition. He could get hurt.”

I hate to say it, but she's right. Besides, I ain't risking seeing my own guinea pig get killed by all that fighting we're about to do!

"Dammit...!" I hissed. "If that's the case...Wait...what about that tiger of yours?"

“Snowflake?” She asked.

"Yeah...can't she watch him?" I suggested. "In all that fluffy hair, Jo Jo might enjoy being in her fur like he enjoys being in my hair."

“Hmm... I don’t see why not.” Newbie shrugged before she whistled and her white tiger came into the bathroom. Wait, how the hell did that tiger even get in here? I swear that newbie must've taught her some sort of trick to appear in three seconds. “Snowflake, can you keep JoJo in your fur while Jack and I compete in this competition?” 

Snowflake nodded before I placed JoJo in her tigers fur. 

"Heh...Guess you're better at something other than being cute and protective of newbie." I laughed.

Snowflake purred and JoJo pokes out of her fur and gave me worried squeaks.

"Heh heh, don't worry...I'll be fine...Besides, this will give me some extra fun for me tonight. Needed to blow off some steam either way." I reassured.

JoJo squeaked and nodded.

“Take care of him, Snowflake.” Sarah told her tiger, which it nodded before exiting out of the bathroom. Alright, how does anyone in this damn place not even noticed a white tiger?

“Now come on let’s have some fun.” I chuckled, starting to walk out of the place before falling face flat onto the ground. “...Ow.”

"Heh heh, well you might need to learn much on standing on all fours." Sarah giggled, helping me stand up.

“Grrr.” I blushed with embarrassment before exclaiming, “I don’t need help!”

I mean, I fell once, so maybe it-


BAM!

...Ow...Ngh...Dammit! Let's try again! As I tried standing up, I fall face-flat again!

"OW!" I hissed, trying to get myself back up.

"I don't know...you might need it." Newbie insisted.

"I said I don't need it...!" I hissed before standing back up and trying to move, but falling face flat for the damn fourth time. "OW! Stupid legs!"

I already get into this damn form, and I get myself to act up like this?! Dammit!

"Why are you acting so stubborn Jack?" Tch, like I would tell you newbie. "Jack...Look at me and tell me why."

"Tch...why do you care?" I scoffed.

“Acting stubborn means you’re not allowing anyone to help you.. seven though you need it. So how about accepting some help once in a while instead of letting your pride take over?” Newbie questioned me with a raised eyebrow.

"So what if my pride is taking over?!" I exclaimed. "I'm just stressed out..."

"But why?" Tch, well...! Grr...Just shut up and maybe I will tell you. "Jack, I can't understand what's your problem if you won't tell me of your problem, you know..."

"...Because you beat me!" I hissed, growling angrily at her. However, she remained calm and sighed, "And that stresses you out why exactly?"

"Tch....because I'm the strongest and yet you beat me! I even lost to a girl, no less!" I exclaimed angrily, glaring deadly at her. "And since then, those bastards probably laughed at me like Skittles because I had to..! Grrr...! And I didn't bother to be around them lately today because I didn't want to hear more of how they were laughing and making fun of me!"

I looked away with a frustrated look, gritting my teeth in anger.

It's true...I was the strongest back then. Back during my family years, I would try to become as strong as my family. Of course, I made some good friends that I could trust, and I feared a lot by my classmates during my high school years. But...even so, I tried to remain strong to keep up my appearance. Losing like that is just enough to break a man's pride, especially if you lose to a girl in a humiliating way...

“So...you thought since because you’re not the strongest that your friends might not wanna hang out with you and you were afraid of them making fun of you behind your back?” Newbie theorized.

"...Yeah." I huffed. "I push those bastards..."

It sounds selfish, but...I can't give up on being strong...and I really don't like anyone to try and give me pity. It ain't fun, alright? When 

“Are unsure there aren’t any other reasons that they wouldn't think so?” Newbie suggested, confusing me.

“Huh?” I asked.

"Think about it..." Newbie softly smiled. "It was because of your complex of wanting to be strong and not wanting to be defeated, you began thinking like they would hate and laugh behind your back, but in actuality, they weren't. They were just concern for you upon seeing your shift in personality, and you just let your pride and anger get a control over you Jack...That is why you need to be careful and stay calm...Thinking all angry like that is messing with your head..."

Ah...But...Mm...I guess newbie has a point... 

"Yeah...but they probably lost their respect on me..." I sighed, looking down on the floor while my tail flickered. "Me being strong...it's my only way to gain respect from others...it's what it has been back in my hometown."

“But that was in your hometown...Not in Equestria." Newbie reminded, walking over and helping me up. "Ponies here don’t care about how strong someone is to gain their respect. What gains their respect around here is they treat others....Like how your friends treated you when they were concern and tried helping you..."

Ah...I-Is that true? Did they really and I just...pushed them away?

"Acting kind, loyal, generous and caring is what gains respect in this world. And you’ve shown your loyalty more than once.”

"You...really think so?" I asked in surprise, staring at Newbie. "What makes you so sure?"

“You defended me from the two stallions last night when I was tired, showing everyone that you wouldn’t leave a friend to fight their battles alone...That qualifies as loyalty to me.” Newbie smiled.

"Ah...." I don't believe it...

She actually believes in me...W-Well, that's untrue...but I had to do something. Even so, I had to protect her and the others.

Newbie then nudged me and grinned, “You haven’t lost anyone's respect, Jack. You’ve always had it just by being yourself.”

"Ah...Thanks..." I chuckled, hiding my blush. "Now come on, let's enjoy some fighting together. I already know you want to do it."

"Mm...Okay." Newbie shrugged. She helped me learn how to walk with four legs which I got the hang of kinda fast and we both went back to the competition. 

Ngh...Can you imagine me walking like this? Hmm...Well it's not so off weird...But then again, I see why not...Now then, how am I gonna fight like this? I mean, I would rather fight as my other self, but...Heh, nah, I'm sure I got this, no need to worry.




Meanwhile...

Unaware for the two, a familiar masked man was watching them from afar from the shadows in the backroom of the arena...

"Well well well...Isn't this interesting?" Void narrowed his eyes before his hands started glowing. "Hmm...I mustn't let this nonsense get to me...Time to capture and destroy you..."



Back with the others...

"So we should probably sign up for it for the next match...as well as disguises."

"Why disguises?" Newbie asked curiously while we walked over to a random hall.

"In matches, we use alias and masks to keep our identities and real names a secret, similar to Lucho Libre." I explained. "And if people saw my face, even in this weird form, they might do something to us like those two stallions that were messing you up!"

"So what disguises did you have in mind?" Sarah stated. Heh, glad you asked newbie...

As we walked by, we took noticed of a janitor coming out of a room while pushing a whole gray cart filled with costumes...

Huh...I think we found our idea, newbie.



Later

"Hah! How do I look newbie?" I smirked, adjusting my mask. 

You like my costume? How we got it? Well let's just say, it was a 'steal'. By that, I meant that we stole this while the janitor wasn't looking. Ha, it was pretty cool, right? I had a red cape with a blue leotard leggings that covers my plot, as Newbie stated, and I gotten red shoes with blue highlights over my back hooves and wore a good awesome mask; a bull. It was a leather mask that covered my face, and it was quite a good one to use...It fits me like a glove, well at least, in this pony form.

"Hmmm..." Newbie tilted her head before smiling softly, "It looks really nice Jack. So what about mine?"

"Well..." I eyed her costume, and so far, it looked too...pretty. She almost looked like a  cat due to the headband with cat ears on top, and wearing a pink cape with a silver color on the back, as well as wearing a mask that definitely looked like a cat there....Ugh, she's just too oblivious on it. "Well...You're too gorgeous."

"What? Is that a problem?" Newbie asked with a raised brow. "I thought that maybe I might look good instead of looking like a brute."


Yeah, yeah, whatever...

"Alright, now we need cool names." I smirked, while confusing newbie as she asked, "Names? Like...our actual names?"

"No! I meant stage names to hide our identities!" I huffed. "We need to head over to the office to give out stage names and not our real names. It's a common way in wrestling matches, in a way."

In real wrestling like grappling matches in school clubs, we may use our real names since they're official and such. However, in other types of matches like one wrestling network that I always love to tune in, we either use our real names, nicknames, or stage names for either amusement, people never liked their names, and just to keep their names hidden from their opponents, but that fails fruitlessly last time I remember . But now's not the point. Right now, we need to decide on how we're gonna be called.

"Hmm...Well I got a suggestion..." Newbie proposed. "Why not I call you 'Red Bull'?"

"Red Bull?" I rose a brow at her. Why the hell would I have such a....Oh! Ha ha, clever one! "Huh, I get it...Because I'm reading a red cape and that I have the strength of a bull, right?"

"Nope." Newbie shook her head and gave me a smile. "Because you're as mad as a bull and your face turns red."

"W-What?! Hey!" I growled, gritting my teeth at her. "That isn't fair!"

"Heheheheh..." Damn brat...

"Fine..." I huffed. It'll grow on me eventually...Now for newbie's nickname. "So what kind of name do you want newbie? It has to be a good one."

"Hmm..." She can be either called 'Feisty Tiger', or maybe 'Ferocious Feline', or maybe even...

"Fluffy?"

..................Pfft, seriously? Okay okay, not THE most threatening name but it as her choice.

"Heh...Fluffy." I snorted, trying to hold back my laughter.

"What's wrong with that? I like it." Newbie shrugged nonchalantly.

Yeah, sure...You crack me up kiddo.

"Whatever..." I rolled my eyes. "Right now, let's focus on what we need to do..."

Newbie lets out a smile and nods, "Okay, so...let's go and sign up. These matches aren't long... are they?"

"As long as you want them to be." I chuckled. "And you know what? I think I might enjoy it doing it with ya, newbie." 

"Mm..." Newbie nodded in understanding. "Alright, let's go."

Ha ha ha, great answer newbie! Glad that you finally accepted it so easily, newbie!

“I’ll just do one fight just to see if I like it.” Newbie suggested, which I nodded. Well...She is quite strong if I remember her...kicking my butt...so we might have a fair chance.

“That’s fine by me." I shrugged before smirking while we walked through the corridors while hearing the crowd's chanting out there. Jeez, we're already missing the action but we'll be a part of it soon enough! The registration isn't done yet...I hope. "Heh, can’t wait to beat these losers."

“Jack, overconfidence will lead to failure.” Newbie warned.

“Yes Newbie.” I huffed, blowing some air over my face. Tch, like I don't know that already. I've like heard that from you many times. Besides, I rather keep my overconfidence to myself...

...But at the same time, do I really want to keep acting up like this? I mean...it's just frustrating. Wrestling is a place where you don't follow the rules of someone telling you what to do. A place where you can fully embrace you...So I know that this sport is where I can fully take out my anger here...

“Come on, let's go.” Yeah yeah, I'm coming brat...

“Alright...but how do we get into that ring? I mean, what if registration's closed off before the day of the match?" I hummed, closing my eyes. 

"Don't we sign up like everypony else?" Sarah suggested. 

"Oh yeah...I think it was somewhere around here in this hall?" Jack wondered.

"Come on, let's go and see." Sarah said before the two of us began to walk down the hall and eventually finding the office. Hmm...Let's just hope that we aren't late for this match...or at least any good to get us in, even if its just once.



Later

"So...you two wish to compete in this month's wrestling competition?" 

Soon enough, the two of us were in front of a receptionist, who was the one who can get us inside this match. Me and newbie were sitting on chairs, though I had some difficulty adjusting myself in this damn chair, trying my best to at least get it right just sitting right on it. How do those pony brats do it?

"Yes ma'am." Newbie nodded. 

"Alright...." The receptionist wrote it down in his little clipboard, using his teeth. "Okay...so you two together? A tag team?" 

"Yeah..." I grunted, feeling uncomfortable in this seat. 

"Okay...what are your names?" She asked.

"Call me Mad Bull, and that's Fluffy..." I answered. "I'm Mad Bull because I'm strong when I get mad and charge at any bastards as well as delivering powerful guts."

"And I'm Flurry... Cause I'm fluffy." I facepalmed my mask, shaking my head at the innocent yet stupid and blunt answer she gave out.

"...Really?" I asked blankly. "That's your best description about yourself?"

"Yes.. is that wrong?" She asked me innocently, tilting her head. Oh my frigging god, what the hell is wrong with this pony? And here I thought that pink pony was stupid herself.

"Pffft...." The receptionist starts holding back his laughter before replying, "Okay okay...'Fluffy', I can start seeing how you are."

"Heheheh..." What's so funny about that, newbie? It's just embarrassing...

"Well anyway, I'll go talk to the big stallions and see if we got room for a match for you two new ones..." The receptionist got out of his chair and walked out of the room. 

"Huh, that was easy." Newbie commented while I facepalmed again. 

"Yeah, well now that we have to wait..." I huffed. 

"Mm..." Newbie nodded.

Well...He better be here in time. I mean, this wrestling competition could end at anytime soon.



Fifteen Minutes Later

"Grr..." What's taking that damn receptionist so long?! We've been sitting in this damn chair for fifteen minutes! "Come on, come on, come on! Where is he?!"

"Be patient Jack." Sarah said to me, giving me a serious look. “Good things come to those who wait.”

"Tch...Well I've been waiting forever..." I huffed, getting off of the chair. "Ya know what? I'm gonna look for him right now."

"No Jack, wait!" No way newbie! You know how I am with waiting! That is why I'm gonna find him and gonna beat the living s-

WHACK!

OOF! Ngh...My nose!

"Ow! Hey!" I hissed, shaking myself before looking up from someone who opened the door, revealing the receptionist.

"Oops! So sorry about that! I never noticed you there!" Oh, you think?! "Anyway, sorry if I made you guys wait. I just gotten word from my boss, and he says that he would love for you two to compete as a final match!"

"No way, are you serious?" Newbie asks, getting pumped up. 

"Mm-hmm! Just head upstairs at the ring and wait by the corner till they call out for you!"

"Heh...About damn time." I snorted, getting up from the floor and started wobbling my way out of the place. "And also..."

"Hm?" As the receptionist looks over to me, I punched him in the jaw before he collapsed on the floor, nearly making him unconscious. 

"The next time you opened that door and hurt me, you're gonna be damaged!" I yelled out angrily before stomping right out of the door. 

"Sorry about him..." Newbie apologized sheepishly before chasing after me through the halls. "Jack, that was very uncalled for."

"So? He'll be fine...I just gave him a light punch." I rolled my eyes, earning a doubtful look from her. "I'm serious..."

"...Sure Jack, sure..." Newbie groaned, shaking her head.

What? I'm serious. I know when I'm right-

"Ah! Hey!" What the? Eh? Oh, it's just some wuss in some leotard outfit. Heh, can mares even wear leotards? Heh heh...

"Yeah, what is it?" I snorted, glaring at that individual. 

"How about you watch it?!"

Huh...? What the? Who the hell is this pony? She was wearing a latex leotard outfit all over herself, along with a mask with a rainbow marked mask.

"Who the hell are you supposed to be?" I asked.

"Me? I'm the Rainbow Striker? Striking down opponents in rainbow style!" Rainbow Striker? What a stupid name… and her voice sounds familiar…. very familiar. "Now if you excuse me, I have to hurry, fatso...!"

Rainbow Striker started to fly off, leaving behind a loud laughter. 

"HEY! I'm not fat!" I yelled out in anger before blushing, "I’m husky."

"Says that fat butt of yours!" Rainbow Striker laughed before she was gone by the minute. "Why you little...!" I hissed, twitching my eyes.

Newbie put a hoof on my shoulder, "Easy Jack, calm down." I took a deep breath and calmed down before muttering, "Fine.."

Phew...Alright, I really need to keep calm...

"Hmm... something about her seemed familiar." Sarah hummed, eyeing at the rainbow-colored wrestler we encountered.

"Hmph...whatever, if we met in the ring, I'll gladly give her a taste underneath my-"

Hm?! What the?! My mouth?! Seriously, again newbie?! Newbie did that whole ‘zip the lip’ spell again on me! Dang it kid! I glared at Newbie, who gave me a sheepish smile before she unzipped my lips, but that didn't stop me from my death glare. She giggled nervously before exclaiming, "Oh look! There's the stairs! Let's go!"

Before you know it, she zipped away. I sighed and shook my head before grumbling, "Goody, goody, ugh..." 

Anyway, this match better be worth it...Heh heh, can't wait to fight!




Later
"OHHHH! And the Pony-nator takes down Grey Backworth's in a roaring pain of a  body slam attack!" 

Whoo...Sounds like things are getting intense out there. Of course, we're gonna be a part of this intense feeling once we're up on that ring.

"Heh..." I smirked before fixing up my bull mask. Jeez, it's a little itchy, including these pants that I'm wearing, but it'll have to do...Ugh...how do you scratch your butt when you have hooves?

"You feeling nervous Jack?" Newbie asked me in concern.

"Me! Nervous? Pfft! Please if anyone should be nervous it's our competitors." I said confidently.

"Hmm...confident as always..." Sarah giggled.

"Heh heh...!" I let out a big grin, tapping my hoof before we watched some pony being dragged out of the ring by paramedics. Meh, I'm sure that pony's gonna be alright. Besides, it looks like it's our time for the show to begin. 

Before we entered out there, the referee quickly trotted over to us and whispered, "Psst! Hey, hurry up and let's go!"

Mm...Yeah, let's get started.

Soon, it was time for us to enter. Newbie and I walked into the ring, as the announcer gives out a shout-out to their names.

"Ladies and Gentleman, I give you a shout-out to the two new competitors of the first match of this season! He weighs 342 pounds, said to be the humilator of beating down his foes. Please give a shout out to...Mad Bull!"

Heheh...Yeah! Now that's what I'm talking about!

"Next to Mad Bull is his co-partner / sidekick. She's cute, adorable, and well much Mad Bull's partner, Fluffy!" 

The crowd either began laughing or wolf-whistling at newbie. Tch, well...it's typical for female wrestlers to always get that sort of praise, just the latter of what they're doing. But they'll see just how strong Newbie is in this match. Although...

"Tch...Seriously? You really need a better name than that, newbie." I huffed.

“But I like Fluffy.” Newbie smiled at me, cheekily.

"Tch..." Oh my god, what is wrong with this chick?

"And now, he is also a new competitor into the mix..." Lights turned off before we saw a few explosions entering around the ring. "She moves at the speed of sound, known for her cunning strikes, leaving her opponents with a butt-load of butt-kicking! Here's...Rainbow Striker!"

Suddenly, a quick rainbow blur flew straight down and landed straight into the ring, giving the two of us a cocky grin.

"Wait...You?!" I yelled out in exasperation.

"Ah, so you’re my opponents, how would have guessed." Rainbow Striker smirked.

Not this rainbow bastard again!

"Hi." Newbie greeted.

I sighed before scolding her, "Don't be nice to her." 

"Hmph. This should be easy." She stated.

Oooh, she's so gonna get it now.

"What...was that...?" I asked.

This little...! Grr...I am so gonna kick her butt after this!

"Tch, Oh yeah?! Well is it just me or is that outfit is too big for your behind?!" I laughed, giving her a taunt.

“What?! Grr... you’ll pay for saying that, fatty!” Rainbow Striker exclaimed with a frown on her face.

A tick mark came in my head before hissing, “What?!”

I tried to tackle her but Newbie held me back and started to advised me with a calm look, "Calm down Jack.. rushing head on into battle is not a smart move."

"Yeah, well she insulted me back!" I hissed.

“You should not react so violently when people criticize you.” Newbie added, with a knowing look.

"But?! She...! No fair...!" I growled angrily.

“Easy Jack, calm down..” Newbie advised, letting me go.

How can I stay calm?! This brat over there is making fun of me by calling me fat and you want me to stay calm like that?!

“Hahaha!” Rainbow Striker laughed with a smirk on her face.

"Grrr!" I grew a tick mark on my head before I started charging straight towards her. "You're dead, you little punk!"

"Hahahahaha! Bring it!" Rainbow Striker smirked.

Ooooooh, she's gonna get it! Charging straight ahead with a tackle, I am so gonna-

Before I could, she leaped past me and jumped on my head, forcing me to fall face-flat on the ground!

"...Ow..." I groaned, slowly getting back up.

"Jack!" I heard Newbie coming over to me and the Rainbow Brat laughing, "Nice landing, chubby."

"Tch..." I hissed, growling angrily.

"Jack, let me-"

"Just sit back and let me fight back newbie!" I hissed, charging straight at her and ready to punch her! Wait...how can I punch? I mean, I have hooves and...

Rainbow Striker simply bucked me in the stomach and I slammed back first into one of the corner poles, "Ow..."

"Tch..." I shook my head before getting up.

"Really? Is that the best you got? Wow, for someone who first came here, you got no skill."

....Heh....Is that so?

I let out a smirk, confusing both newbie and the Rainbow Striker.

"What are you up too?" Newbie asked, narrowing her eyes at me.

"Me? Well..." I gave Newbie a smirk. "I'm about to end this Pegasus's career."

"Pfft...I like to see you try." Rainbow Striker gloated.

"Really? Then I bet you can't fly straight and knock me out of this ring."

Heh, what am I planning? Well...something she won't see coming.

"Jack, what are you doing?" Newbie asked me curiously.

"Shh...Just watch newbie." I winked, stretching my back. Newbie sighed at me, shaking her head. Just watch and learn, newbie.

"Alright..." Rainbow Striker laughed. "Are you surrendering?"

"Me? Nah, I ain't surrendering." I snorted. "What you need to surrender is you being such a cocky little brat..."

"You're one to talk, fatty!" Rainbow Striker snorted back.

"Oh? I'm fat...look at you wearing that suckish leotard and mask...you look more fat." I chuckled, earning a snarl from my opponent while the whole crowd 'Ooh'd' at her. 

"Oh man! And leave it to Mad Bull to leave a devastating burn to his opponent, Rainbow Striker!" The announcer stated, who had trouble hiding his smirk at that.

"Are you gonna get back to fighting or... What?" Newbie asked with a sweat drop forming on her forehead.

"Shut it." I shushed her. "Trust me..."

"Okay...?" Newbie rose a brow.

"Tch, oh really?! You think I'm fat, chubby?!" Rainbow Striker yelled.

"Yeah." I smirked. "You aren't even a man like me, and I bet you can't fight back that hard. I barely gotten hurt."

"What was that?" Rainbow Striker narrowed her eyes at me.

"I really meant it." I snorted. "After all, you...are...fat..."

The whole crowd gasped, even the mares widened their eyes and some even glared at my direction, but nobody glared harder than her...She gritted her teeth angrily before her eyes screamed murder straight towards me.

"Grr...Why...You...!" Rainbow Striker fumed in anger and embarrassment before she blasted straight at me in full force.

Letting out a smirk, I quickly got out of her way and managed to use my gut as a force to hit, slamming her towards the ropes and launching her back towards me. I began using my hooves to hit her back and forth over and over back to the ropes.

Newbie watches this from outside of the ring, blinking in surprise before commenting, "Hm...Weird."

You think this is weird? Check this little move...Well if I can perfect it in this form?

"Now for the humilitating defeat..." I smirked before turning back and jumping down as the Rainbow Striker came back flying towards me and I slammed my butt down on her face into the ground. Her body was behind me and was twitching before trying to pry her off of my bottom!

Soon, the whole crowd all winced and gasped at the impact before they all began laughing out loud for what they say.

"Ngh...Get...off...of me!" Rainbow Striker demanded, hissing as I looked down and saw half her face glaring at me.

"Hehehe, sorry loser." I gloated.

"Ngh...Ugh...do you even bathe?!" Rainbow Striker whined, trying to wiggle herself out of there.

"...Maybe." I snickered, grinning a bit. Heh heh, classic strategy for any wrestling competitions; Humiliation.

"Ha ha ha! Wow, no wonder they call you the Mad Bull! You're as mad as bull!" Rainbow Striker laughed.

"Jack, be careful." Newbie warned. "She could try anything to hurt you!"

"Pfft...What can she do to me?" I smirked.

"How 'bout this?" Heh? What is she- "HI-YAH!

AH! My butt! OW! Again?!

I suddenly leaped off and rubbed my backside, looking back and saw that gal laughing at me, swishing her tail around.

"Ha ha...Good thing I can use my tail for something other than to just show it off." Rainbow Striker smirked.

"Grrrr..... You'll pay for that!" I growled and I charged her.

She smirked before began making goofy faces before dodging while I slammed into the pole! 

"OW!" That really hurt, dammit!

You were saying?" Rainbow Striker snickered, flying over to me and laughing at my distressed. I slowly gotten back up before moving over to the ropes, having a snarl on my face.

"Oh really?! Well I'll be glad to sit on you and gloat about all night!" I yelled angrily before getting up and backing up, using the rope as a way to send me flying straight at her. The mare just flew up into the air and I crashed into another pole.

“Ow.” The Rainbow Striker laughed while I groaned in pain. Grr, this little brat!

Newbie managed to pulled me off of the pole,"Told you.." She stated bluntly.

"Tch...I still had her..." I scoffed before wincing and looked behind my butt. Ow...right where Newbie hit me earlier...Crap...

"What's wrong? Can't fight back? Need a diaper to fix your bottom by the Wah-bulance?" I glared at Rainbow Striker, feeling so exasperated to just beat the ever-living crap out of her!

"Jack..." Newbie called, gaining my attention. "You need to calm down..."

"What?" I asked.

"Calm down. You're letting your angry cloud your judgement." Newbie lectured me.

"My...judgement?" What is she talking about?

"You need to study your opponent before you make a move." Newbie added, "If you know your opponents battle style then you can use that to your advantage."

"Me? But I..." I looked back at Rainbow Striker, who was grinning over at the crowd and enjoyed being praise. "I can't...I mean, I ain't that smart to know that so easily.

"You will if you don't let your emotions take hold." Newbie added.

I blinked at her before frowning, "Mm...Why the hell are you still trying to give out info to a guy like me?"

“Because your my friend and it’s one thing a true friend does.” Newbie replied with a soft smile.

"Hold on Jack, let me do this." Newbie offered, tapping my hoof before switching me out.

"Ah, so. Fluffy is next? What are you gonna do, puff up?” Rainbow Striker joked.

"Mm..." Newbie smirked. "Why not you come and punch me to find out?"

“Gladly...” Rainbow Striker smirked and she punched Newbie. “Ha!...What?!”

Newbie didn’t even flinch at the punch!

Instead she turned back and grabbed Rainbow Striker by the tail, leaped into the air and threw her onto the arena floor! The hell?!

"OW! Huh?! How the hay?!" Rainbow Striker yelled out.

“Don’t underestimate your opponent.” Newbie grinned.

"No, how didn't you do that?!" Rainbow Striker clarified, gaping at her.

“Easy. I let you punch me so you thought I’d let my guard down, but you were a mistaken and when you let your guard down, I struck.” Newbie explained.

"Oh yeah!? Take this!" Rainbow Striker begins spinning around her, hoping to distract newbie.

Newbie just sighed and she stomped her foot on the ground, creating a pillar that launched Rainbow Striker into the air!

The audience gasped in awe.

Newbie then leaped up and dove into her stomach and she came crashing down.

"OW!" Rainbow Striker hissed. "Hey! You aren't even allow to use magic!"

“That wasn’t magic. Earth ponies are connected to the land. And I used that connection.” Newbie explained.

Rainbow Striker simply just blinked before commenting, "...Okay yeah, but I'm still gonna call it magic!"

Rainbow Striker then charged at her as Newbie attempted to grab her tail, but that's what her opponent wanted! She quickly flew over her and grabbed her tail!

“Ow!” Newbie yelped in pain.

"Ha! Now then!" No! That's it! Screw this! I quickly climbed on top of the ropes, stretched it through, and launched myself straight at Rainbow Striker, slamming her while she let go of Newbie as we both crashed into a pole, with me rubbing my gut against her!

“Get off me!” Rainbow Striker yelled.

"No!" I laughed. "You hurt Newbie, so now you're ready to be crushed!"

"Ngh...Stupid...fatty..." Heh heh, hope you like some squash...

However, as I continued to do so...I noticed the small smirk on her face. What the?

"Well...if you wanna use your strength, don't mind if I do this!"

Wait wha-

WHACK!

.......

"YOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!"

Oh...Ah...Ngh...Right up my...Ow...She kicked me right in the nuts....Ah...Ah...Ow...Ow...

Oh...

"Oooh..." Newbie winced. "That's gonna leave a mark..."

You think?! This is even worse than you kicking me right up my butt!

"You were saying?!" Grr! Damn you Rainbow Striker! You're dead after this! "Oh well, serves you right for giving me a mouthful of your stomach, so I decided to pay you back. Good thing my hoof was still free while you were crushing me under there!"

"Oh yeah?! Well wait till I make you pay!" I yelled angrily. 

However, before any of us could try anything....

"Jack! Rainbow Striker! Watch out!" Huh?! Suddenly, Newbie tackled me out of the way, colliding against Rainbow Striker before we watched Newbie getting blasted right through and she fell onto a pole. The whole crowd gasped in shock upon seeing this as the announcer began panicking.

"Oh no! Fluffy's down! W-Who fired that magic blast?!" 

Yeah! And if so, then I'll kill them!

Suddenly, two stallions stepped into the ring and I widened my eyes upon recognizing them.

"Ah! What the?!" I gaped. "You guys again?!"

It's those same damn stallions that I bumped into last night! What were they even doing here?!"

"Hey, what do you guys think you're doing?!" Rainbow Striker yelled, tilting her head over past my large figure and glared at them. "This is our match! Leave Fluffy alone!"

"Sorry, but we have orders from our master that we need to bring this girl over to our master." Tch, like hell you're gonna do that!

"Quick, let's bring her before they try anything!" The second stallion stated, which the first nodded before walked over to the weakened Newbie. Oh hell no they aren't!

"Quick, we gotta stop them!" I yelled.

"We need to do something, but first...Get off of me!" Eh? Oh...Uhh....Let's not talk about it. 

"R-Right..." I quickly got off of her before we glared at the two stallions grabbing Newbie and were trying to run out of the ring till the two of us turned to each other and nodded.

"HEY!" I yelled, grabbing the two of the weird stallions looked back at us. "You want Newbie? Then you'll have to beat us to get her!"

"Yeah!" Rainbow Striker yelled before turning to me, "Hey fatso, let's just call it a truce for now till this match ends."

"Yeah..." I nodded before grabbing onto her by biting onto her tail. 

"Hey, what do you think you're doing?!" Rainbow Striker whined, before I made a small smirk.

"Just think of it as a little thing I like to call 'teamwork'." I muffled before spinning around and threw her straight at the two stallions, who were collided against her and crashed into the pole, dropping Newbie in the process.

"Owww..." Rainbow Striker slowly got back up and wobbled her way back to me before shaking her head and glared at my direction. "Hey, watch it next time!"

"Hey, at least it worked, right?" I rolled my eyes. "And...fine, I get it. I apologize."

"You better..." She snorted before we noticed the two stallions slowly getting back up, and we saw dark aura surrounding the both of them.

"You two have made a grave mistake." They both said simultaneously, both sounding a little creepy in my opinion.

"Tch, more like you two can try..." I snorted. "After all, you got us to deal with..."

"And look at this folks! Mad Bull and Rainbow Striker are making a team-up against these two strange stallions! Let's move on and see where this will lead!"

Right...Thanks announcer guy.

Soon, the two stallions began glowing in dark aura and shot out dark fire-like beams at us. 

"Watch out!" Rainbow Striker hissed before the two of us quickly ducked from their attacks and we rolled across to the other side as they were glared at our direction. "Tch, so they think they can fire against us."

"Tch, then we'll just use fire against fire at these idiots." I smirked. "You ready...?"

"Sure thing...fatty." Heh, it's funny...I can't believe that it took me so long to take me to realize this at all. Newbie...Hold on tight. We're gonna save you against them...!

Suddenly, the two stallions quickly charged straight ahead and tackled us! Unfortunately, I grabbed ahold of them before grabbing onto their back by wrapping my hooves around their torso and lifted them up in the air before slamming them hard down from the head.

"Ha! Is that all you got?!" Rainbow Striker smirked, flapping her wings hard enough to push the other stallion away before she lifted him up in the air before tossing him up in the air. She flew straight up and slammed him back hard to the floor. "Wow, how original..."

Heh, you said it Newbie.

"Grr..." The dark stallion that was with me groaned and twitched in pain while he was upside down, his head still groaning from the impact I gave him. He quickly used his backlegs to kick me in the face, making me step back a little before he managed to get back up and apple-buck me in the nose.

"OW!" I hissed, shaking my head. "Tch, oh yeah?!"

"Yeah!" He yelled, charging at me and tackled me, pushing me back to the corner. "Just face it you, you're just some big brute that the master has been watching. Why care for some weak pony like her?"

"Tch...Because unlike you, I care about my friends and she believed me even after she helped me out from my problems! And also, as a man, I ain't gonna leave some chick like her behind!" I smirked before slamming him away with my gut.

"And because she's our friend!" Rainbow Striker screamed, charging straight down before she tackled the other stallion in the gut, slamming him into his other comrade. "Hey, wanna tag-team together...Fatty?"

"...Yeah...Let's do it, Skittles." I smirked before I reached out for her hoof and she started to spin around, slowly creating a rainbow vortex with me in it. She then threw me straight down at them as I used my hind legs down for the count and hit them right in the jawlines, throwing them off course and crushing them underneath my legs into the mat.

"OOOH! And what a devastating attack to these two new ponies jaws! Now that's gonna leave a mark!"

Tch, you bet your butt this was. 

"Ugh...W-What...? How...could we...?" Heh, you really wanna know? Well then, let's finish this before we're done with you two fully.

"Hey Rainbow...You ready to run them down?" I smirked, cracking my head a bit.

"Heh...You just read my mind." She smirked, stretching her back before quickly flying over and started spinning them around before she quickly grabbed the two by the torso and throw them towards me. Using my backlegs of these things in this form, I quickly turned around and apple-bucked both of their crushed faces back to the Rainbow Striker. She quickly flew over and stretched the ropes, making them fall back flinging them way up to the air before the two of us nodded to one another and charged ahead, using both our plots and as soon as they were falling straight to the position we hoped for, we crushed them tightly tightly before slamming them hard to the ground to finish them off.

"And there we have it mares and gentle-ponies! Mad Bull and Rainbow Striker completely dominated the two of them together and fully won the match together! Man, what a crazy way to end this match."


Heh, you damn right...

Me and Raibow Striker got off of them before we watched and noticed the two slowly began disappearing, fading away...

Huh...What a surprise. So they were just like those shadow things back at the empire...Hmm...Well at least they're taken care of.

"Heh...Not so bad, fatty." Rainbow Striker smirked.

"Not even for you, good job using your own plot, Skittles." I smirked back, nudging her back. 

"For a first title match between these two opponents, who would've thought these two newly heated rivals would actually become partners." 

Yeah yeah, save it for after we take care of Newbie. Right now, it's best we get out of here. I think I had enough fighting for one day...



Later

"M-Mm...Mm?" Oh, about damn time newbie. We were outside of the lounge room, waiting till finally for this pony to finally waken up.

"You alright Newbie?" I asked worriedly.

"Y-Yeah...Ow...what just happened?" Newbie groaned, shaking her head.

"Apparently, some two weird stallions came in and tried capturing you, but kicked their butts...literally." Rainbow Striker...No, Skittles told her about it. 

"Ah...I see..." Newbie frowned. "It must've been the ones who tried taking me last night...I should have suspected much that they would try something to kidnap me..."

"Yeah, but don't worry, we handled it just fine, ain't that right Skittles?" I chuckled.

"Yep, you could say that fatty." Skittles smirked.

"Ah...I should have suspected as much...I knew you looked way too familiar." Newbie softly smiled. 

"Hey, I never leave a friend hanging." Skittles winked, crossing her hooves and settling down.

Sarah nodded before smiling warmly, "Thanks for saving me, both of you."

"Anytime Newbie." I smirked. "You can thank me and Skittles for saving you from those two clowns." 

"But you know, I'm surprised that you found out that it was her, Jack." Newbie blinked. "How did you know?"

"Well...Heh, I figured it out during the match by my gut feelings." I smirked. "Also, I may have discovered it during the match by her tail and her constant whining."

"Heh, so you figured it out huh?" Rainbow Striker smirked before removing her mask to reveal her face. "So what was your first clue? That I called you a lot of fat nicknames?"

"Shaddup, so what if I am? I'm still gonna call myself husky like my mom tells me sometimes." I huffed, leaning against the chair.

"Whatever..." Skittles rolled her eyes before asking, "So why are you a pony?"

"The same thing happened when we went to the Dragon Lands but instead of turning into a frigging dragon, I was turned into this." I explained.

"Well, you're still fat, fatty." Skittles snorted.

"Yeah yeah, whatever..." I rolled my eyes.

"Jack..." Newbie softly smiled, seeing me feeling relax. "Have you actually taken my word of advice?"

"Y-Yeah..." I blushed, looking away. "So?"

"Mm..." Don't even try smiling, newbie. "So what happened to those two stallions?"

"Meh, we took them down and they disappeared, but it didn't seem to bothered the crowd." Skittles shrugged before placing her hooves behind her head. "Other than that, we really gotten our fame out there, ain't that right, Mad Bull?"

"Heh, you said it, Rainbow Striker." I laughed, giving her a noogie, which she laughed back before exclaiming, "I'm glad...You really are a Mad Bull, fatty." 

"Mm...Glad you two are getting along." Newbie chuckled.

"Hmph...So you like wrestling?" I asked, finishing off my noogie.

"Yeah, got interested in it when I saw Sarah kick your butt, both metaphorically and literally." She chuckled while I looked away with a slight blush. "So I decided to try it myself."

"Hmm..." I muttered, trying to hold back an anger, but let out a heavy sigh. "Yeah...Heh, guess I really didn't see that coming...and thanks to those two pony bastards, we didn't have the chance to at least fight to see who's the strongest..."

"Yeah..." Skittles sighed before punching me in the shoulder, "But hey, at least we had a good fight, right? I swear that I was gonna finish you off."

"No, I was!" I chuckled. 

Huh...It's funny. We never had a real conversation to each other other than arguing with one another. Mm...

"So wait, the two stallions disappeared?" Sarah asked curiously.

"Yeah....Must've been something created by that bastard." I huffed. "I mean...that Void fellow, right? They kept spouting out dark aura and crap."

Newbie lets out a sigh upon realization, "Of course..."

Dammit, what the hell is this guy's problem? He's seriously pissing me off...

"Surprised that you figured it out, fatty." Skittles blinked. 

"Hey, I can be smart sometimes..." I snorted. "Besides, he's darkness right...it's obvious, ain't it?"

"Yeah yeah, sure..." What do you mean by that?!

"Well...in any case, what now?" Newbie wondered. "Where are we?"

"In the lounge...The referee allowed us to stay here to rest and we can leave anytime now since the show's over." Skittles explained.

"Yeah, it's best we head out now..." I sighed before feeling my stomach growled. "Ugh...I really want to eat...but I want to fight too..."

"How about we just go back to the home-ship and use the ring in there?" Skittles offered. "You can get something to eat and you can fight."

"And the gang will freak when they see you like this." Newbie added.

"Yeah, yeah..." I sighed. "...Look, I'm sorry for acting like a bull."

"It's okay, Jack." Newbie reassured, smiling.

"Yeah...But you know, I think you can take me on whether you're human or a pony." Skittles smiled before nudging me on the side. "Heh heh, you know, even as a pony, you still look fat, fatty."

"Huh...whatever Skittles." I smirked before looking down, "But you know...maybe I thought you guys wouldn't want to hang out with me because I wasn't the strongest when I lost to Sarah...but I guess I was wrong..."

I guess looked where it landed me...I guess I-

WHACK!

"OW!" I hissed, feeling Skittles whacking me upside the head. "Hey! What was that for?!"

"To wake you up, fatty!" Skittles glared at me. "And you're darn right that you're wrong! So what if you're not the strongest? You're the strongest in my book, fatty."

"Huh?" I looked at her in surprise.

"You heard me. Even if you're not the strongest anymore, you're still number one in my book." Skittles stated.

"...Heh, thanks Skittles." I chuckled. "I guess I was scared that you all ditched me, but...it looks like I was wrong."

"I know that, and it's the truth." Skittles smiled.

"Now come on, let's go back to the home-ship." Newbie offered before we heard the door opened, revealing to be Snowflake, who came over and Jojo popped out and leaped into my mane. He nuzzled my face, squeaking happily.

"Heh...Yeah..." I smiled softly.

Maybe I'm not the strongest anymore, but at least I know these guys don't think I'm weak and didn't want to hang out with me, but maybe I just pushed them away on that fear of mine, but no more....This time, I think I'm happy to say that it doesn't matter for a guy like me to always be the strongest, but to be always there for those guys...My friends...

Not too soon, I started to grow a headache...and then I let out a groan.

"What's wrong fatty?" Skittles asked. "You look pretty pale..."

"Yeah...I don't know why..." I groaned, rubbing my head. What's going on? Why do I hear Newbie’s voice?


I am thou, thou art I... Thou hast acquired a new vow.



It shall become the wings of rebellion that breaketh thy chains of captivity.



With the birth of the First Guardian of Honesty, I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and new power.


Suddenly, a large light engulfed us...coming out of me...




Later

"...Jack... Jack..!"

"Fatty...!"

"Is he okay?!"

"What do you think...?"

U-Ugh...W-What...? What's going on...? Ugh, get out of my head...

H-Huh...? The moment I opened my eyes, I see not just Newbie and Skittles looking down at me, but I saw the other losers looking down at me too.

"Jack, are you alright?!" Jamie asked in concern.

"Yeah, and it looks like nothing went wrong with you..." Nicole agreed.

"Ugh.. what happened?" I asked groggily.

"You fell out again..." Skittles stated.

"And not just that, but it looks like you turned back to normal as well." Newbie added, much to my surprise. Seriously?! I am?!

"And not just that Jack...but, you...gain cutie marks too." Ren added in surprise.

"What!?" I gotten up before looking at myself, and saw my hands...My hands! Wait...I'm human again! "Wait...did you say cutie marks?!"

"Well..." Rarity's horn glowed, bringing up a mirror up to me and said, "Take a look."

I swiped the mirror from her and looked at my cheeks.

Right there...there were the same as the nerd's and the kid's cutie marks. Except, it had three apples on them.

"What...the hell?" I muttered, twitching in anger.

"It looks like Applejack's cutie mark." Skittles stated.

"Well...ain't that...lovely?" Applejack rose a brow, feeling uncomfortable about that.

"Yeah.. now that means you have magic now too, Jack." Newbie stated.

"And this is quite amazing..." Twilight muttered. "I mean, for you to have cutie-marks, you must've resolved yourself like Ren and Jamie did the last two times..."

You're kidding, right?

"Woo-hoo! That's so cool! Yay!" Pinkie cheered, jumping around the couch I was on.

"What the hell...?" I repeated myself, twitching angrily. "Great, now I have these girlish things?"

"Stallions have cutie marks too." Newbie said with a deadpan look. "And so does Ren and Jamie."

"I know, and it makes it even weirder!" I exclaimed.

"Eh, you dealt with Pinkie Pie.. nothing is weirder than that." Skittles shrugged.

Okay... Skittles had a point. That pink brat is the weirdest thing I’ve ever seen.

"Ugh..." I sighed. "Whatever...why did I get these in the first place…?"

"Because you resolved yourself." Sarah explained.

"Resolved...myself?" I asked.

"Ren and Jamie must've done the same...Because they care about their friends, even if you did when saving me..." Sarah smiled. "You all have that power...each of you possessed the powers of the Elements of Harmony..."

"Yeah, she kinda has a point..." Ren shrugged. 

"Well at least you did fine..." Rantaro snorted. "Really wished to see that fat pony version of you, fatso..."

"What was that?!" I growled angrily, growing a tick mark on my head.

"Jack, calm down..." Kaede sighed. "And Rantaro, don't even try doing that..."

"Whatever..." Rantaro rolled his eyes.

"So anyway, Sarah and Rainbow Dash told us what happened and what's been bugging you..." Mason stated, looking at me with a frown.

"Jack..." Fluttershy looked away sadly. "We never knew it really chewed you out...I mean, we knew you're always upset, but..."

"It's fine, I mean it..." I scratched the back of my head. "I mean, I always kept my problems down within me...and I never tried asking about it to anyone...it's just not me, but with you guys..." I gave them a satisfied smirk, "I guess I wouldn't mind telling you what's going through my mind."

"Uh, haven't you always been, Jack?" Pinkie questioned.

"And no offense, but you tell us your honesty way too much from your head too much, Private Yamaki." Skye rolled her eyes.

"That is true." Nicole hummed in agreement.

Tch! Stop ruining my moment!

"But still, I can't believe it...Two cutie-marks?!" Twilight shouted, almost deafening us. "I mean, this has to mean something!"

"Which means 3 down, 6 more to go..." Rantaro sighed, rolling his eyes. "Who's next? Red haired or glasses?"

"H-Hey!" Kaede pouted.

"Mm..." The nerd in the glasses just shrugged, still going through her iPad.

"I know, but it's still weird that you guys are getting those..." Applejack stated.

"Meh, you might as well get used to it..." Skittles shrugged.

"Yeah! And soon, we'll be having tons of humans with cutie-marks! Isn't it awesome or what?!" The pink loon grinned crazily.

"Right....Pinkie." Rarity coughed sheepishly.

"But what could it all mean...?" Jamie muttered, closing his eyes before he began taking notes. "And plus, I was a little surprised to hear that you were transformed into a pony, which seems similar to what happened to us back at the Dragon Lands. It would seem that we managed to create a resolve of one of our problems, transforming us back in the process...."

Hmph...Okay okay, settle down nerd. Jeez, I can't even catch up with all that crap...but still...

"....Why us...?" That's the questioned I keep wondering, practically all of us. Just more questions with few answers.

"That shall be revealed in time..." Newbie spoken, gaining the rest of our attention.

"What do you mean...?" Nicole asked, narrowing her eyes at her.

"...Sorry, not yet..." Newbie shook her head, unable to provide any answers to us.

Great, she's foreshadowing again! Ugh!

"What the hell?! Just tell us!" I demanded.

"Not yet...even though it was given to you by accident...but you all were still chosen to help..." Newbie immediately shut herself up, covering her mouth.

"Wait what?" I asked.

"Accident..?" Skittles asked.

"Nothing!" Newbie exclaimed sheepishly.

"Newbie..." I warned. "What did you say?"

"Nothing." She huffed while the rest of us glared at her.

"Sarah...This isn't a game for you to be playing." Mason stated sternly. "We're tired of waiting, and we demand some answers..."

"...I know, but even so, I may know but I may not know..." What the hell is that supposed to mean?! I narrowed my eyes at her again, but all she did was give us a sheepish smile and just teleported out of the room

"W-What the?! Hey!" I exclaimed angrily.

"Well...she's gone." Rantaro groaned.

"She's just a mystery than ourselves, or even Void." Kodi commented, pouting a bit.

"Why doesn't she want to tell us?" Carrie wondered. "Does she not trust us that much?"

"Well...Let's just give her some space." Ren shrugged.

"I think that's a very nice idea." Fluttershy softly smiled. 

"Yeah....Although..." I sighed. "I still wanna a match against between you Skittles..."

"Well...Why not we re-act it?" Eh? Is she serious?

"Wait, you mean you two are gonna wrestle with each other?" Ren asked in surprise.

"Are you two sure?" Kaede frowned. "Won't you two get each other hurt? You two are lucky that none of you gotten bad wounds that would have send you two in the hospital...again."

"Meh...We can handle it." I snorted. "Just watch it...Now then..." Slapping my cheeks, I quickly got off of my bed and gave Skittles a smirk. "You ready Skittles?"

"Heh...Ready's my middle name." Skittles nodded, giving me a competitive look. The two of us glared at each other determinedly till the moment was ruined by a certain pink loon...

"Wait, really? Dashy? I never knew that! I always thought that your middle name was-"

"SHUT IT PINKIE!" We both hissed, earning a sheepish grin from her before she slowly duck down. Tch...Now then, I think it's best we be prepared for our little exhibition match...

"Hey Jack..." Ren spoken up, giving me a soft smile. "Do you mind if you had an audience?"

"Eh?" What? Is he for real right now?

"Well...I may as well...hang out..." Nicole sighed, putting away her iPad before giving us a soft smile, "It would be something seeing your large bod against Ms. Rainbow Dash's skinny and athletic body..."

"Same here!" Carrie giggled.

"Well...I guess it'll be alright." Kaede smiled softly. "It'll be at least to show you that we actually do care..."

"Yeah! Come on Private Yamaki! Private Rainbow Dash! Give us a good match that'll surely satisfy our entertainment!" Skye jumped up and down, feeling pumped up about it.

"I might as well watch too...friend." Mason smirked at me, earning a shocked look from the others while Jamie and the girls gave me smiles, well maybe also Rantaro, but I don't know about the guy. He's just leaning against the wall but gave me a slight nod.

"...Heh..." I chuckled before I boomed with laughter, nearly surprising everyone, "Hahahahaha! Well alright! Glad to hear that I got you guys behind my back!"

"See? Friends forever." Skittles winked. "Now you better hurry and don't chicken out, fatty!"

Oh please, I barely ever chick out on anything Skittles! Now then...where's my...spandex shorts?



Meanwhile

"Hmm...It appears that my own creations were weak...How disappointing..." Void sneered down at the home-ship, clenching his fists. "Oh well...it won't matter...I'll shatter their faith for good...She probably helped those fools gained another power. She must be dealt with first before I can take the Elements of harmony." 

Void gazes over at the stars, directly over at the moon shining down.

"And to do that...I need to make them lose their powers fully...by making them fall deeper and deeper till their hearts crumbled...into nothing. I think they need to know a bit more soon enough...That way, let's see how they can take responsibility on the current state of their situation if I reveal that..."



Later

"Dear Princess, I learned something surprisingly while being in this crummy girly place of yours. I thought I could have learned much about always being the strongest and everyone will give you the respect like I had back home with my family and my gang. However, when I suffered...a humiliating loss to Newbie, I felt like they lost faith in me. But after a little match against with my newest wrestling rival, 'Rainbow Striker', and some encouragement from my new friend, I realized that being strong isn't the way to gain friends, and holding back your bottled emotions from how you truly feel and lying to yourself that you're fine on the inside and outside isn't a nice thing...But it doesn't matter now because now admitting my feelings to the gang made me feel better now...Well whatever crappy fairy tale lesson you want me to learn. But either way, I-I'm not going soft, mind you princess-"

"Jack! Be sensible on these messages!" Twilight scolded me sternly.

"Oh relax, she won't mind." I scoffed. "You need to learn to stop praising other ponies here that easily, purple nerd."

Twilight simply sighed and rolled her eyes before writing the last bits of the message.

"Okay, I already put your name on it and I'll gladly sent this to Spike after this...For now, stay safe you two." Twilight warned while I nodded before stepped into the ring with the others cheering for not just me, but for Skittles as she entered the ring, wearing her Rainbow Striker costume.

"Heh...What? Was it supposed to be a costume party or something?" I joked, earning a smirk back from her.

"Maybe, but when you said you wanna rematch, I knew that you had to..." Heh, you bet...and now we can finally satisfy our battle together, girl...Because now...

"Oh Jack! Rainbow! Please be careful and don't go too hard on each other, pretty please?" Fluttershy pleaded softly.

"Yeah, and make it a good clean fight, please?" Ren added.

"Yeah yeah, we got it. Now then..." I smirked down at Skittles, who was stretching her back while I was adjusting my black spandex shorts. "Get ready to be squashed by yours truly, Mad Bull..."

"And get ready to taste the rainbow by me, Rainbow Striker..." Skittles chuckled before we heard the bell rung as the two of us slowly circled around each other...and then...

"HAAAAHHH!"

"YAAAHHHH!"

Heh heh, now this is something I will enjoy...And in a way, to at least make myself feel better to learn much about it today. But who gives a crap? Right now, it's butt-kicking time!

To Be Continued
> Chapter 69 - Sarah's Fitting In Pt. 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's been quite a while since we last had this talk, haven't we, huh? I mean, I never really monologue much of these interactions. Huh? What do you mean that you don't recognize me! It's me! General Skye Jones! Yeah, that's right! I decided to fill in with my perspective, so don't even doubt me about what's about to happen! But that besides the point, the point is that we're all taking a chill pill from all the fighting, especially with that crazy bug queen that I apparently missed out fighting with the rest of these guys. I mean, really? I seriously missed some epic fights with these guys...As a general and a prodigy, I feel ashamed about this. But that doesn't matter, what matters is finishing this to the end.

Anyway...Where was I talking about? Oh right...We were discussing on what this crazy adventure would be about. Well if you must know, this is something right after that whole wrestling thing with Private Yamaki and Private Dash. It's something about that new strange pony that we all seem to keep our eyes up and automatically put our trust in after witnessing her defeating that crazy blue pony, Trixie, or whatever!

...They never tell this girl some things sometimes...It makes me feel upset that I never do.

But anyway, what I'm trying to say that Sarah's been around for a while and she's been staying with us in her makeshift room in the home-ship. While some of us seems to trust us, which one of them is their 'leader', Corporeal Loodan, I still don't. I mean, I need to know much about what she's hiding, and I'm really suspicious on what she's hiding about us. I'll be willing to uncover whatever dark secrets she's hiding behind us and that I will find out about and nothing's gonna stop me...

Well...but first, a little meal wouldn't mind. A-Anyway, what I'm trying to say is that...She's just so weirder than the other ponies. 

I mean, come on, it’s been like, a week since Sarah came and stayed with us in this home ship and plus, so far, she's been weird. Sure, she might've helped and been around with us, but she's as weird as Private Bonnie and Private Wilde, the latter who I am still wary and still keeping my eyes on out on the open. Whenever we're doing something for most of the day, she's just up being in her room either reading or training. She never had the TV on for some reason ... probably because she never knew how to use one, but who knows? We showed her around the home-ship earlier and she seemed interested in the book store in the mall. 

Jack showed her some of the fast foods that the food courts had like french fries, pizza, soda and etc. Sarah seemed interested in it but she mainly poked at it, confused on what to do with them which was kinda sad and concerning, but I found it sometimes peeved off by her uncanny on stuff like that. It's food, how can she question it? She's seriously weird, even Sergeant Pinkie knew what to do with that. She didn’t even know what ice cream was! Ice cream of all things! She even mistook an Ice Cream Sundae, the treat, as an actual Sunday where you just eat ice cream all day. Again I say, it was cheesing me off...!  

Anyway, that was yesterday...And other than that, we just acted as if those events never even happened before! But enough about that, let's talk about what we're gonna eat for breakfast! Maybe bacon, or pork and cheese omelette! Ooh, the choices are so choosy even for this general!

"Oh, morning Skye." Oh, it's just Corporeal Loodan. What a fancy meeting to see him here as well. Of course, I respect the guy but I have been keeping my little rivalry to show people...and ponies, that I am definitely a great leader! Besides, these guys are gonna need me!

"Mm...You're just in time Skye." Private Mason Hunter bowed, softly smiling. "I just finished making some omelettes."

"Oh...Is it Pork and Cheese Omelette?" I hoped, smiling happily till he shook his head and gave me an apologetic smile.

"I am truly sorry, I'm afraid that I didn't. It is just a Cheese Omelette dish...But we are just adjusting much here in Equestria's cuisines that I forgotten to ever use meat." Aw what? So it's just Cheese Omelette? Whatever happened to using meat? Now I just want to go to Round One's little restaurant or the ones up at the Shopping Mall District.

"Tch, whatever..." Private Yamaki scoffed, finishing up with his subway sandwich. No fair! Ugh, and they call themselves soldiers! "Besides, everypony in Equestria are already taking in that we can eat meat, and they're just a bunch of wusses if they think we'll eat them alive."

"Surprised that the town easily accepted us like that..." Private Ross chuckled sheepishly. "I guess they're just really friendly when it comes to meeting something new."

"Yeah, tell me about it...!" Private Carrie smiled happily. "I mean, when I first attended school here, most ponies were really friendly."

"And by most, you're excluding Diamond Tiara and Silverspoon?" Private Watson questioned, looking over from his journal.

"Mm..." The young comrade of mine nodded, frowning a bit. "She's just so mean sometimes that I want to at least try and stop being mean..."

"It takes time, Carrie." Corporeal Loodan reassured. "I mean, I had my hands with her when we first met, but soon enough, she'll learn to respect you. Trust me on that."

"Agreed." Private Mason nodded, smiling softly. "And I know that you can be able to do it Carrie. Just ignore everything cruel that she says right out of her muzzle."

"Mm...Okay big brother!" Private Carrie cheered, raising her hand in the air.

"Heh...smart little brat." Private Yamaki snickered, leaning against his chair and burped loudly.

"Gross." Private Bonnie commented, not looking over at him. 

"Hmph...Says you." Oh hush up, at least you're here.

"Anyway...Mason, are you almost done packing?" Corporeal Loodan asked curiously. 

"Yes, just a few more days before I can finally take leave..." Private Mason nodded. "Right now, the train that is gonna take me to the academy should arrive soon enough. I mustn't miss it."

"Good because if you do, I'll be sure to kick your-"

"Language, Mr. Jack." Private Bonnie scolded softly, still not taking her eyes off her iPad. The fat man started to growled angrily, ticked off by her blunt attitude. Hmm...These guys are a wildly bunch as I noticed, but they serve pretty well.

"Hey, where did Rantaro go?" Private Ross asked. "I mean, not that I care but, has anyone seen him?"

"I think I saw him exploring around the ship a little while ago." Private Carrie shrugged.

"Tch...Forget him, that's his problem..." Private Yamaki scoffed, not interested in that man. "Speaking of, what now?"

"Why not we play outside with our pets?" Kodi suggested, barking excitedly.

"Well it's been a while so..." Corporeal Loodan smiled softly. "Yeah, I see why not..."

"Same here." Private Ross agreed, gently petting her kitty cat by the neck while she was too busy playing with that cat stuffed doll of hers.

"Yeah! Today's Saturday so we all can hang out together before big brother's out to the academy! Plenty of time!" Private Carrie giggled excitedly, much to the others' joy. Mm...Oh what the heck? He's about to be transferred and it'll be awesome to try it out! I like to see where this is going...!

However, before we could continue on, she appeared to the room...

"Morning you guys..." Hm? What is she...? She reading a book...a spell book? Jeez, I forgot that we live in a society filled with magical ponies...Huh, still weird but cool at the same time.

"Hey Newbie..." Private Yamaki called, snorting a bit before finishing his next meal for breakfast.

"Easy Jack or else you bloat yourself." Private Gem joked, smiling softly.

"Oh please, like I would." Private Yamaki huffed, rolling my eyes. You say that fatso, but like you have anything to say. 

"Oh Sarah, how's the book going for you that I lend over to you from the library?" Private Watson asked with a soft smile. "Is it good?"

"Yeah, it's good James...Thank you." Private Gem thanked, not eyeing him as she was still focused on the book. "Mm..."

"Um, Sarah?" Corporeal Loodan called out, frowning in concern. "You okay...?"

"Yeah, just fine Ren..." Private Gem nodded, sitting down on the table and focusing on her book. The rest of us, including Private Bonnie, focused our attention to her, who just sat there and said nothing. Hmm...What the heck is going on with her?

"Aren't you gonna eat your breakfast?" Private Mason questioned, feeling unnerved by her silence.

"Huh?" She looked down and saw her breakfast which was eggs and bread. Jeez, I guess she isn't much enthusiastic about her food. "Oh, of course." Her horn started glowing, putting a mark on the top of the page before closing the book, placing it down on the table and then began eating her breakfast. 

"Mm..." Private Carrie frowned, feeling confused by her silence. "Sarah? Is everything okay...?"

"Everything's just fine." Private Gem reassured calmly, biting onto her bread. Before any of us could pressed her for more questions, her pet tiger, Snowflake, walked in and pawed at her back leg. "Hm? Oh, morning girl...Oh right..."

Private Gem's horn started glowing again, and magically brought out a piece of meat out of thin air before handing it over to the white tiger, who happily purred and began eating it. 

"Here you go, girl. Enjoy." Private Gem softly smiled before she finished eating her breakfast and returned reading. 

"So...Sarah." Corporeal Loodan spoken up. "Are you gonna do anything today? You seem to be way focused on that book of yours..."

"Doesn't Jamie focused more on his book, too?" Oh right, he does as well as taking notes, but I feel like you're really hiding something from us. I'm sure I taken noticed of it right after Private Yamaki and Private Dash's match and training session, and this encounter with weird dark ponies...Jeez, it's a lot to take in for this military girl!

"True, but..." Corporeal Loodan frowned in concern, hearing the bored tone of her voice. 

"Yes, but the way how you read, it sounds like you're hiding something..." Private Watson frowned sadly. "Are you sure that you don't need any help, Sarah?"

"Yep." She answered quickly, hiding her face.

"She's acting like that because of what happened when she was with Mr. Jack and Ms. Rainbow Dash." Private Bonnie answered bluntly, glancing upwards over at the cloaked pony. "She sounds pretty upset and sad....She's hiding it through reading that book."

"Huh? Newbie?" Private Yamaki turned over to her, who looked a bit glum before quickly hiding her face away from us with her book.

"It's fine you guys, I'll be alright." Yeah right...You don't have to keep holding back on your feelings!

"Hey, don't say it like that, Private Gem!" I exclaimed, standing on my chair and glared at her. "If you're so worried, then you need to stop being such a worrywart and a sour puss! What you need to eat more and have fun and we can teach you!"

"Yeah, like Skye said!" Thank you Corporeal Loodan! I like your support!

"Mm...No thanks, I'm good." Eh? S-She just waved it off like that?! After my little speech back there?! Who does that?! "Besides, I rather just read all day in my room." She replied calmly.

"Really? That's it? That's what the nerd does." Private Yamaki snorted, rolling his eyes while Private Watson looked away with a blush before he muttered, "W-Well...True, but I do that for research and it's a hobby-wise...It's nothing much, really."

"But...Don't you have anything else to do other than that, Sarah?" Private Ross asked curiously.

"Don't have anything better to do." Private Gem shrugged.

"Really?" She blinked in confusion. "Well I guess it would make sense since it's been getting quiet lately and you have just started living with us..."

Yeah, true...

"Besides, I...haven't been socializing with other very much even when I was..." Hm? Why is she stopping at? Are you kidding me right now?! Oh come on! You're totally gonna skip the good juicy parts?! Mm...! Traitor! 

"And how long has that been going on?" Private Gem hummed in thought, trying to remember before blushing a bit. 

"I-I guess...all my life..." Private Gem chuckled sheepishly. "I-I never really spend that much time with anyone other than Snowflake. I simply don't spend enough time with anypony or anything else, so I just never had any time with anyone, to be honest."

"Huh...What have you been doing before you came to Ponyville?" Kodiak asked, raising a brow.

"Um...I rather not say...but, if I have to say, just travelling around Equestria for my own...reasons." Private Gem frowned, glancing away from him, or the rest of us.

Hmm...Wonder what she means by that? What reasons, hmmm?

"Mm...I take it that you have anti-social skills, correct?" Private Bonnie questioned, staring at Private Gem, who nodded in response to her question. Soon, the psychologist began furrowed her brows with a serious look. "But...You were fine interacting with us, yes? In fact, I was told that you even interacted with these...dragons that has appeared back when we were tailing Queen Chrysalis..."

"Cause I've talked to creatures who aren't ponies so it helps me socialize, I guess." Private Gem shrugged. 

"What do you mean by that? You talk to other species that aren't ponies?" Private Bonnie blinked, looking back down on her iPad and typed some stuff on it.

"Jeez, talk about discrimination right there..." Private Yamaki rolled his eyes. "What happened to you to distrust ponies that much, newbie?"

"I...rather not say...I rather keep it to myself, Jack...sorry if I'm being harsh or cold..." Private Gem sighed, rubbing her foreleg.

"What do you mean...?" I questioned Private Gem, raising a brow. "Why can't you try to at least get along with anypony out there?"

Private Gem looks somberly, sighing to herself before excusing herself out of the table and walks around the place.

"Hey...What's Newbie up to...?" Private Yamaki whispered over to us.

"I think she's gonna sing..." Private Carrie shrugged. "I mean, we all like to sing, right?"

"Singing's just for brats like all of you..." Oh hush up! I love singing! It's like doing karaoke!

Soon enough, we began hearing her sing...

"I've traveled around the world...On hundreds of far-flung trips, I've scaled towering mountains and sailed on pirate ships..." Private Gem sung in a nice sweet tone, walking across the living room, looking around with a sad look on her face. "I've outrun minotaurs, leapt from runaway wagons, parachuted off cliffs, gone wing-walking on dragons.Yeah, all that and much more, I sure know how to do."

Mm...She's really taking this into consideration. I guess it's understandable...After all, I mean, I would feel the same feeling...Not having any friends...and the feeling of losing one through any means.

"Sarah..." Private Ross frowned. 

"She looks so sad..." Private Carrie stated, sensing the sadness in her tone. "What can we do...?"

"Mm...I have no clue..." Private Bonnie shook her head, staring over at Private Gem as she continued on with her song.

"But when it comes to making friends, I just don't have a clue. Yeah, put me in a jungle and I know how to thrive. But in a social place, how can I survive?" Private Gem stared right out of the window while ending in a long sounded tone, frowning and sighing melancholy. 

Mm...

"Should we...?" Corporeal Loodan spoken up, gaining the rest of their attention. However, we each shook our heads, not wishing to interrupt her. However, Corporeal Loodan softly smiled at Private Gem and offered her something. "Well...maybe we can help you be more social?"

"Huh?!" Private Gem quickly turned around, looking surprised upon hearing that.

"Well yeah. I mean, you really sound like you could use our help." Corporeal Loodan chuckled with a soft smile.

"Yeah! Same here!" I agreed, smiling enthusiastically. "I mean, we can't let someone like you be all gloomy and pessimistic like that! Now turn that frown upside down, Private Gem and let's get you out there to make new friends!"

"Yeah, we've helped out each other on our problems and maybe we can help you." Kodi agreed. "So don't worry, we got this!"

"...Heh heh, okay." Private Gem softly smiled. "Well it is you guys' word, so I can trust you. After all, you guys are always so kind..."

"Yeah, we know, we're awesome..." I smirked, crossing our arms. 

"Alright...I'll try it." Private Gem smiled. "I'll give this a try and see if I can try it out..."

"Ha ha, glad to hear newbie." Jack smiled, licking the last crumbs on his plate.

"Quit eating like that Private Yamaki." I scoffed, feeling a bit disgusted. "Besides, that's not how you eat like a pig. This is how you do so...!"

I quickly rushed over and grabbed my plate and...

SPLAT!

Mm...Okay, it tastes good excluding any pork in it!

"You two are slobber monsters...." Private Mason groaned, shaking his head while the others chuckled while Private Gem watches us with a soft smile before she began singing softly to the last verses of her song.

"Yeah, there's a whole lot in the world. That I know how to do, and when it comes to making friends, I've a chance at that now too. Put me in a jungle, yeah I know how to thrive. And in this social place," Private Gem hummed, twirling around before smiling over at us, when I smiled softly back at her and I saw the others smiling softly at her. "Now I might just survive. Yeah, when it comes to making friends, it's finally true. I know how to and that's because of you. I know how to! All because of you."

Private Gem stops on her solo, smiling softly before chuckling to herself.

"Wow, she's really good..." Kodi barked happily. "I mean, somepony has to like her if she's such a good friend, right?"

"Yeah, I mean, Sarah's been very well friendly with all of us, so it shouldn't be a surprise if she gets along with anypony in Ponyville." Corporeal Loodan nods in agreement.

Well yeah, I mean, sure she's nice and all, which I respect, but as a general, I still feel like she's hiding something!

"...That song was alright." Huh? Hey, don't pop out of nowhere like that!

"Tch, you're here..." Private Yamaki huffed, sighting the criminal standing near the doorway with a cup of coffee in his hand. 

"Well, just letting out my opinion...It was 'alright'..." Private Wilde rolled his eyes, sipping on his coffee. "Besides, really now? Singing some pitiful song because you're lonely except talking to your tiger? How truly sad...."

Snowflake growled angrily at him till Private Gem began petting him on the head, calming her down.

"Rantaro, you really don't need to keep acting up like that..." Corporeal Loodan frowned, sweat-dropping a little. "Besides, this might be good...I mean, she decided to stay with us for a while because she's a good pony, Twilight and the others would understand how she feels and would try and help her. I mean, give her a chance...."

"You guys have seriously been focusing much more about her and been trusting her. Just 'cause she saved your life from that crazy hag and that bug queen, she's still barely trusted...And she doesn't want to give us the answers she wants us...If she was a good friend, she would be honest but instead, she doesn't." Hmm...Well I know she does, but maybe she's nervous? "I have no time with none of you, I have more important business to attend..."

Rantaro begins taking his leave while the rest of us turned to us, looking concern. Hmm...This guy is starting to annoy me. He's all talk, but he still makes a good argument.

"Mm..." Huh? What is that glasses girl staring at? "...I shall take my leave...I'm not used to going around."

"Huh? But we were just getting along, Nicole." Private Ross frowned. "I thought that you wanted to try at least...?"

"I rather not...I'll catch you all later..." With that, Private Bonnie takes her leave while the rest of us are still around. Hmm...I guess it's just seven.

"Mm...Kinda feels sucks when those two don't want to be a part of this." Kodiak whimpers. "I mean, why can't those two ever try to be able to spend with us?"

"I'm sure we can still give them our space?" Corporeal Loodan suggested. "Don't worry, I know that those two will still try to be with us, let's just wait for now. Maybe when we get the chance, we can all try talking to them."

"Speak for yourself, face it, those two are unable to try spend time with anyone. Newbie's an exception since she's...I don't know. Shy, I guess?" Speaking of her, I noticed Private Gem brushing and petting Snowflake gently, having a slight frown on her face while Jack began speaking much about her and his dislike on the fedora boy and that girl with the iPad. Hmm...Though, I want to figure her out. Just who the heck is she?





Meanwhile, back with Nicole
Nicole's POV

.....Hmmm....I'm positive right now the moment I first saw her....Hmm....

"Um, Ms. Bonnie?" Hm? Oh, it's Thorax. I didn't expect to find him in my room again. Then again, I suppose it's another one of our therapy sessions. He must've went to come over and find me. "Oh, am I interrupting you or something?"

"No, it is alright..." I reassured softly, walking over across the small living room and sitting on my conveniently placed beanbag chair. "I remembered now that it's time for one of your therapy sessions."

"Mm hm...I was wondering if you were gonna come." Thorax smiled softly. "But you look like something is happening down there...Is something happening down there?"

"No, not at all....I was just thinking about some things. Particularly, one pony..." I sighed, cleaning off my glasses. "She's oddly enough to possess so much mysterious power, and to bring things to life...but what if she isn't bringing like those dinosaur things to life...or even about those dragons...even within this crazy place, it's still pretty strange to see those creatures...It's just that something is definitely wrong..."

"Mm...I guess...I mean, I don't think I've ever seen dragons like those. Screaming Death and Whispering Death...I don't think I would ever see those things..." Thorax frowned, humming in agreement. "Maybe like she said is true, that this Hidden World might be real..."

"...Or she might be lying. This Hidden World may not exist, but...from what she was saying, I don't think she might know or possibly be lying to us about that." I deduced, narrowing my eyes as I gazed down at my iPad, checking out much of the notes I've taken from them and looked through their profiles that I've made for them. "She may say that she traveled there, but what if...that is something she lied to. I'm not sure if the others took noticed, but...those dinosaurs...they were illusions created by that amulet around her neck..."

"Really? Illusions?" Thorax blinked, shocked and astonished about it. "She can create illusions?"

"Yes, but the way how she does it is like, she may have brought them into reality by changing their appearances from illusions to stay around to make them look real...It's from that amulet of hers." I hummed, gazing down at my iPad.

There is really is something wrong with that unicorn...Her power as Mr. Loodan about bringing 'anime into life' may be similar to my theory about bringing these illusions to reality...It's made from her own head...I need to study much more-





Hm...? What in the world....?

"Now then, doctor Bonnie..." What? I looked over and saw a strange man placing over to my left looking through a microscope. "I need you to check up on the subject. Check up on Experiment 001."

"...Okay." I nodded before walking out of the lab and headed straight through the halls, gazing around to see many scientists studying around the many black meteorites that crashed landed into our planet. The casualties were about 2,387 people, but that's just a lucky day for the majority of people surviving. Though, we have been studying these strange meteorites and have been conducting experiments to develop cures while studying its mysterious power. Hmm....Now then, for Experiment 001...the very first successful test subject when we extract energy from one of the meteorites and such...

"How is the subject...?" I questioned, walking through one of the labs, meeting up with the next head scientist. He had a small goatee and shoulder length brown hair, crossing his arms with a satisfied look on his face.

"She seems to doing very well...I'm actually very glad that he and Doug would actually tend for her. It's actually quite good, if you ask me." Hmm...The subject is a small baby that we created from the energy from that meteorite, and out of the rest of the test subjects, she's actually the only one who was doing well.

I gazed over at the strange baby that was in the small crib that we made for her while I stared at her.

"Hmm..." My other two superiors have been taking care of her and I've been doing well with keeping an eye out for her in case she starts performing anything strange. But...she seems to be doing well...for now. I just wondered what's the deal with her...What is the mystery behind the meteorite? Hmm...





Flashback Ended

"Ngh...Ohh..." What I just see? Was that...a memory? And...everything that my old self, her thoughts and feelings before my memories were erased...

....So, those meteorites really did happen. And...it killed off not so many people that you would expect a bunch of meteorites would have done. But that baby...

"Um...Ms. Bonnie? A-Are you okay? You've been staring into space for a while..." Thorax frowned in concern while Frost rushes over to me and nuzzled my face, catching my attention.

"Oh...I'm sorry. It's just that...I was thinking about something." I lied, not mentioning about what I just witnessed. "Now then, shall we continue with our therapy lesson, Mr. Thorax?"

"W-Well...Alright, if you say so..." Thorax muttered in agreement before he flew over to the chair.

...But that dream I saw...Hmm...I was a scientist for that company, and was studying that child...and that child...

Why is it that I've seen that child before? Unless...

...I'm going to need to study and keep my eye on her. Her ability that she displayed a while back against Ms. Trixie, it was an illusion she displayed, but why cartoon or anime characters?

Sarah Gem...You are someone that I must be wary of.






My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria


Okay...So it shouldn't be way too hard. I mean, we need to really try to show her that she can easily make any friends that easily...But where to start?

"Wish big brother could be here...." Private Carrie pouted.

"Sorry Carrie, but he needed to prepare for his bags. He leaves in a few days, remember?" Corporeal Loodan reassured with a soft smile. "Besides, maybe with the seven of us, we'll be sure to find a way to get everypony to get along with Sarah."

"Yeah!" Kodi agreed, running past us and standing next to Snowflake. "I mean, Sarah's a really nice person and after everyone saw her beat Trixie, it would be easy..."

"Yeah, totally..." Heh, you better be right...

Soon enough, we arrived at the marketplace where everyone seemed to be really busy with whatever they were buying or selling.

"Hmm...Well this looks like a nice place to start." Private Ross hummed with a soft smile. "So Sarah, why not start some conversation with a few ponies around here?"

"Mm...I guess I can give it a try." Private Gem shrugged before walking over to them. 

"You really think this could work?" Of course it would Private Wattson! Don't give up hope that easily to her! I mean, there's no way anyone would run away from someone like her.

"AHHHHHHHH!" Huh? We all turned around and saw some ponies immediately running away in fear. Wait, what the hell?

"Hey, what's going on...?" I wondered, blinking in surprise.

"I...don't know." Corporeal Loodan widened his eyes before we watched Sarah walking over to a couple more ponies before they turned around and before she could say anything, they looked terrified upon seeing her pet tiger right next to her and screamed out of fear before immediately running away in fear.

"W-What? What's wrong with them?" Private Ross asked in shock and worried. "It's like they're scared of something..."

"What?! Of what?! She and Snowflake aren't even threatening!" I exclaimed, looking a bit pissed off. This is gonna make me try and shoot them with my heli-chopter. Grr...

"I think that's the problem..." What? What the heck are you saying Private Wattson? "It's Snowflake...It would make sense since Snowflake is a predator and well, you can guess the rest..."

"What?! Are you kidding me?! They're scared of newbie's pet cat?!" Jack widened his eyes. "I mean, come on! The red head has a cat and they're fine!"

"That's because Rose isn't even a tiger, she's a kitten..." Private Ross deadpanned, shaking her head.

"But...Snowflake wouldn't even hurt a fly." Corporeal Loodan stated. "I mean, she's so protective of Sarah..."

"Well it's a normal reaction." Private Wattson stated, making me frown, realizing just how right he is.

"Yeah, you make a good point." I nodded in agreement. "I mean, any human would be scared of a big white tiger like Private Gem's, but still, she's all friendly. She wouldn't even try hurting anyone that we know...right?"

We all started to feel unsure, but even though we might not know Private Gem, that still doesn't give us to know that after what she done for us, she isn't evil. Why else would she save us from that crazy magical ponies' wrath?!

"What kind of frigging idiot would get scared of some harmless cat? It ain't gonna attack her unless she's being attack." Private Yamaki snorted, putting his arms in his coat pockets.

"Mm..." I shrugged, unsure about that either.

"Hey guys..." We turned back and saw Private Gem dejectedly coming back with Snowflake by her side. Ooh...Ahh...Come on Private Gem! Don't act up like that! You got this! "Maybe I should head back to the lab...I mean, this wasn't a good idea...I mean, nopony here wants to be around with me anyway..."

"Well...Let's try someplace else?" Corporeal Loodan offered before looking around and spotted a nearby tent. "Oh! There's Applejack and Rainbow Dash! Come on! Maybe you can start interacting with them and soon enough, everyone will see you and Snowflake as good friends."

"Mm...I don't know..." Private Gem sighed, looking dejected. "What if everyone would still be terrified of me even if I hung out with you guys?"

"Hey, don't be sad Private Gem. It's not your fault nor Snowflake's." I reassured, patting her on the back. "I mean, it's these guys of being terrified of something cute as Snowflake. They don't compare to Tom."

"Tom?" Private Carrie blinked, confused by who I was mentioning before repeating that name again. "Um, Skye? Who's Tom?"

"Only one of my best aerial pets. Take a look at this." I smirked before removing my helmet, revealing the sleeping ferret on top of my head who was snoozing soundly on me. See that? That's what I was talking about. Heh heh, he's three years old now, and he's been a good friend of mine. Even Amy liked him...Man, why am I still hung out of the past? What happened back then, stays back there! Now I need to embrace the future! "See? He's really cute, isn't he?"

"You have...a ferret?" Private Wattson sweat-dropped, surprised to see me with such a creature like that. 

"Yep!" I nodded, feeling proud of myself.

"Well...Everyone has cool pets like Skye's." Corporeal Loodan chuckled, walking over and gently scratching Tom by the chin.

"I don't get it...Why do you feel a bit scared of a ferret, Jamie?" Kodiak asked, frowning over at him. "I mean, it's not that bad, right?"

"It's not that I'm scared of a ferret..." Private Wattson sighed, glancing away. "It's just that...Ferrets are quite unruly and wild creatures that just likes biting and scratching anyone they see. They're quite feral and they're known for smelling worse if not tend properly, and way too active every day and even don't tend to sleep at night and make you stay up way too late."

"...Um, Jamie?" Private Ross scrunched her nose, raising a brow at the blue haired boy. "I think you were expressing your opinion of how a ferret is..."

"Mm!" Private Wattson widened his eyes and blushed in embarrassment. "O-Oh no...! I-I wasn't-"

"Oh shut it nerd." Private Yamaki huffed, pushing him aside before walking over to me. "Besides, this thing doesn't look dangerous to me."

"Yeah, he's so cute." Private Gem softly smiled, giggling a bit upon seeing them. "Mm...Well...He seems to be enjoying his rest."

"He's been up all night, so it doesn't matter..." I shrugged, putting my helmet back on. Rest up soldier, you're gonna need it in case of battle. "But anyway, come on, let's go chat up with our comrades."

"Mm..." Private Gem nodded in agreement before we began heading over to one of the markets. Hang on tight, you got this Private Gem. We'll find a way, in the meantime, I'm starting to grow tiresome of this whole me perspective thing for this. I think I'll share it off with someone else if you all don't mind. Thank you, bye!





Ren's POV

Huh? Oh, hey you guys...What's up? I guess I'm up, am I? Well with that out of the way, let's move on and continue on with helping Sarah's anti-social problems and get along with the ponies of Ponyville!

Soon enough, we arrived to the Apple Farmer's tent, encountering Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash.

"Yo guys! How it's hanging?!" Rainbow Dash cheered, racing over and nudging Jack by the shoulders. "Heh fatty, you up for another round later today?"

"Wouldn't miss it for the world." Jack chuckled, smiling softly at her. It hasn't been that long since both Jack and Dash started to grow more into their wrestling personas and been fighting each other for whenever they aren't busy and been keeping up since then. Ha ha ha, they seem to really become closer by the minute. "We were just wondering about if you guys could hang around newbie. She needs some help with trying to gain others' attention and try making friends around here..."

"Oh, why's that?" Applejack questioned, leaning over to the counter to hear about this.

"Well we thought we could help her much by trying to break free from the house and try to see much around with others out here in Ponyville." Kaede stated with a soft smile.

"Yeah, but so far, nobody wants to hang out with her because of Snowflake." I added. "I was wondering if you girls could help us out. I mean, with your help, we're bound to help her."

"Oh, poor Sarah..." Fluttershy frowned, feeling bad for her. "I'm so sorry that has happened to you. Besides, it's okay...I'm sure we'll get everypony to love you and Snowflake."

"Yeah, I mean, you're an animal expert Flutters. I mean, you even have a bear back at your house and we can figure out a way for her." I smiled happily. I really trust Flutters with this, so I know that she can do it. 

"You really think you can help me...?" Sarah widened her eyes a bit, feeling surprised by her proposal.

"Well you look like you need some help, Sarah..." Fluttershy softly smiled. "Besides, I already know Snowflake that she's friendly enough to hear your voice, from the heart..."

"Ah..." Sarah blinked a bit, placing her hoof over her chest. "Mm...Alright...But still, I am not sure if this might work..."

"Sure ya can, sugarcube." Applejack smiled. "Everypony needs a place to start, and we'll be sure to help ya start here in Ponyville."

"Thank you...All of you." Sarah smiled softly at us.

"Well...Can you at least tame that tiger to make these chumps see that? To me, looks like they aren't willing to even be near her due to the cat." Jack huffed.

"Well...Like Applejack said, everyone needs a place to start..." Jamie frowned before softly smiling in reassurance. "But no worries, we just...um...well..."

"Oh hush up, Private!" Skye shook her head. "Just focus on the task!"

"Well...Alright." Sarah giggled, petting Snowflake on the head. "Maybe then, I'm sure I packed a book that might help me..."

"Or possibly hide your face again." Skye snorted, earning a small blush from the said cloaked pony.

"R-Right...Anyway, I-" Sarah stopped mid-sentenced, looking through her bag. "Huh? It's not here...I don't understand...I was sure it was in here..."

"Oh dear, did you lost it, Sarah...?" Fluttershy asked in worried. "We can help you find it."

"Yeah, I'll just search around town in a breeze for it!" Rainbow Dash smirked, stretching her back and pretended to make a cracking sound before stretching her forelegs.

"No no, it's okay. I'll go find it myself. So thank you, you guys." Sarah reassured with a soft smile. "Sorry about all this..."

"Are you sure?" Skye asked. "Come on Private Gem! Don't leave us like this! Friends are meant to help each other! So we'll go find it!"

"No worries, I'll be fine. Just please wait for me, you guys." Mm...I guess Sarah's used to being independent on herself, but she seems to really be headstrong with that claim to finding it herself. But right now, it's best if we allow her, but if she takes too long, then we're coming in to help her out.

"Okay Sarah...Just be careful, alright?" I warned, giving her a worried look. "I mean, we can still-"

"It's alright...I got this." Sarah reassured. "I really don't want to trouble any of you guys...Take care."

With that, Sarah hops on Snowflake before the two were gone in an instant, leaving us all behind.

"See ya Private Gem! Good luck!" Skye smiled, waving goodbye to her. "...Yeah, she totally needs our help."

"Jeez, what's her problem?" Rainbow Dash wondered. "I mean, we just want to help her, jeez..."

"It's just how newbie is..." Jack groaned. "She thinks she can spend time with us and do things all alone...but in reality, she can't."

"Mm..." I couldn't help but think about how right Jack was. I mean...He's right there. Sarah, why are you refusing any of our help or anything? I get you're lonely and you've lived with Snowflake by your company and that's just how you are...Mm...

"Do you think maybe we should go after her?" I suggested, frowning in concern for her. 

"Don't worry, if she says that she'll be fine, then she'l be alright. Just give her a chance." Rainbow Dash reassured, waving it off. "She'll be fine..."

I don't know about that...It just feels off...I just can't but feel like something might go wrong...I just know it.

"You're worried about her, huh?" I quickly snapped back to reality before turning to Flutters, who was frowning at me in worried. I can see why she would be worried about me. After all, we both are connected...

"Mm..." I nodded.

"Mm...Me too..." Fluttershy frowned. "I'm just scared to know what might happen to her...but I guess maybe we should respect her privacy...?"

"Are you kidding Fluttershy?!" Skye complained. "These ponies are as terrified of their own shadows! We gotta do something, Corporeal Loodan!"

"Agreed! After what happened the other night, I ain't taking second chances on what they're going to plan on what's gonna happen!" Jack cracked his knuckles. "If ya need me, I'll be keeping an eye out for her."

"Mm...Be careful Jack." Carrie frowned in concern before seeing the smirk on the big guy, having his ego grow a bit more bigger than it already does. 

"Heh, don't worry kid, aren't I always alright?" Not in the truest sense, no you aren't dude.

"I'm almost done selling these apples, so till I'm done, I'll come by and help ya out in case any hooligan tries anything with the newcomer." Applejack stated, looking dead serious. "Trust me, it's been a bother since the whole Chrysalis incident."

"Are you guys sure? I mean...She was quite powerful..." Jamie stated, blushing a bit. "And so was Twilight and Ren..."

"Hey, don't forget about you!" Skye pointed out with a smile. "You seriously just used magic straight out of your hands! I wonder if I can do that, soldier."

"Oh....Thank you." Jamie blushed, having a smile planted on his face. 

"Mm...Yeah, she's right. It was a surrpise, especially when Chrysalis did ask for Sarah..." Kaede agreed before going silent for a moment. "Though...I am worried about how that Void thing wants her...I mean, you really think they might've met each other?"

"It's pretty obvious since Chrysalis did told us much about it..." Rainbow Dash shrugged. "I mean, he seems to be really after us now..."

"Well yeah...but I just can't help but feel like he's personally after Sarah. I mean, why else did those dark ponies guys Jack told us about how much they wanted her, right...?"

"Yeah, they were pretty clear and didn't seem to care how much they wanted to tell us." Rainbow Dash agreed. "Though, they already disappeared like they weren't even ponies to begin with..."

"That does sound weird...Hmm...I wonder..." I muttered, crossing my arms. "Do you think Void created them?"

"Created them...? Is that even possible, Ren...?" Kodi tilted his head, barking in confusion. "I mean, can he really do that?"

"Seems so..." I shrugged. Well I'm not even sure about it myself, so maybe? Hmm...We only met the guy once, but I'm confident that he can do something like that. "But anyway, I'm just gonna go for a walk..."

"Oh! Do you mind if I come with Ren?!" Fluttershy spoken up before quickly covering her mouth and started to blush a bit. "I-I mean, just for a walk with each other...is fine, Ren..."

"O-Oh...Sure thing..." I nodded, blushing a bit before the two of us turned to our friends, "Hey you guys, we'll...be right back. I promise you that. Just a walk for us."

"Ohhhh...I see how it is now." Applejack began snickering, having a secret smile on her face. "Very well, you lovebergs get used to each other..."

"Yeah, Corporeal Loodan. Good luck on your relationship with Private Fluttershy if you catch my drift, you two." Skye smirked, chuckling alongside with the others.

"Yeah, see ya soon Fluttershy and Ren..." Rainbow Dash grinned in a teasing manner, nudging her Pegasus friend by the side, whose face started turning red immediately. 

"Come on you guys, it isn't funny to do that to them..." Kaede groaned, shaking her head before softly smiling over at us. "But Ren, be careful out there. Go get them tiger."

"Um, thanks Kaede?" I sweat-dropped, scratching my cheek with awkward smile. Jeez, and you told them that it's not funny to do. "Anyway, see ya guys..."

"Oh wait! I'll come too!" Kodi barked happily. "After all, think of me as your protector! You know, to keep them safe as your best friend, you guys!"

"Ha ha, okay Kodi...I can't say no to that face." Fluttershy cooed, scratching him behind the ear while I chuckled and said, "Same here dude. I respect that."

With that, me and Flutters headed off with Kodiak following behind us to keep up with us. Right now, we were exploring much around town to see some of the sightings, enjoying the company of each other and seeing the sightings around town. Hanging out with Fluttershy is always comfortable since she started showing me how fun it is to be in love and learning how it feels...

Soon enough, we soon showed up in the park, seeing the lake over by with some ducklings swimming across the lake. Mm...They look so happy. It brings a smile to my face...

"Aww...Look at all the duckies..." Fluttershy cooed, softly smiling over them. "They look so cute..."

"Yeah..." I softly smiled, nodding to her. "I bet you have some duckies back home..."

"Oh yes, I have three baby ducklings there each named them 'Huey, Dewey, and Louie'..." Wait, what? You named them after that show? Did she seriously...? "Oh, w-why I named them? It was after we watched Season 1 of Ducktales the other night. The next day, I just found the little ones and brought them over by the lake...They look so lonely, so I'm trying my best to find their mother and bring them back home."

"Oh...Heh heh, that's actually pretty amazing." I smiled softly, chuckling to myself. "I gotta admit Flutters, I guess you really liked that show."

"Well it was a pretty funny and cute show." Fluttershy giggled softly. Yeah, I love the old version of Ducktales, it's really good and so classic upon hearing the original voice cast to the classic version of that show. Hmm...Maybe I should show her Darkwing Duck, but I'm not sure if she's able to handle the violence, but maybe the comedy in it? "Hmm...They look so happy...especially with their parents...I wonder if those three ducklings I found earlier could be their family..."

"Possibly...I mean, you did say you found them and are planning to find their parents soon enough, right?" I raised a brow, which made her blush a bit. 

"S-Sorry...I-I was thinking out loud, my bad..." Fluttershy apologizing, bowing to me a bit before I noticed her cheeks started turning red. "Heh heh...Though, it's such a beautiful day, isn't it...?"

"Yeah, it really is..." I nodded in agreement, smiling. "I mean, with a day like this, we could play around and have a picnic out here."


"Yes...with the two of us, or even with the rest of our friends..." Fluttershy smiled.

"And we can even play fetch with each other!" Kodiak barked happily, running around us and wagging his tail in excitement. "Ha ha! I remember back then when you were teaching me how to fetch Ren and it was really amazing back there!"

"Yeah, I think way long before you ever grew up into your teen years now." I smiled, putting my hands into my sweater pockets while Fluttershy scratched the talking husky by the chin, causing him to pant happily.

"Good Kodi...Who's a good doggie?" Fluttershy smiled softly, making a cutesie look on him. Wow...She really does know how to make a cute look, I'll admit. "Yes you are, yes you are...!"

"Hahahahaha, easy now Flutters." I laughed, bending down and scratching Kodi by the stomach, making him laugh back before he started rolling around the grass. "Heheh, you know, we sure are having a good time with each other, huh?"

"Yeah, it's all so nice...I mean, I pass through here all the time, but it feels so amazing being with you Ren..." Oh, really...? Well I guess since we are starting a relationship with one another, I would understand that feeling. Heheh...

"Yeah, it sure has..." I sighed, looking over at the blue skies and see the sun shining down on us. I couldn't help but sigh, bringing a soft smile on my face. "Mm...You know, it's been a year around here and for us, several months since we started to get along with each other Fluttershy." 

"Hm? Yeah, it sure has...Why do you ask?" She turned to me with a confused look, wondering much what I meant by that.

"Oh, it's nothing that I didn't mean to offend you or anything...It's just that..." Man, I'm sure am having difficulty with this, am I? It's been a while since I last saw my family. "Well..."

"...Do you still miss your family, Ren?" Ah! She really figured me out! Wow...She's getting good at reading me. "O-Oh! I-I didn't mean to..."

"No no, it's okay..." I reassured, giving her a soft smile. "Why not we talk by the bench?"

"Mm...Okay." Fluttershy nodded before the two of us walked over to the bench and sat down with Kodiak hopping up and laying on my laps, growling softly with a warm smile on his face. "...So was I right, Ren? Do you...sometimes miss your family?"

"...Yeah..." I mean, I shouldn't at least try lying to her...Especially since she's my girlfriend. "...I was just wondering...and there are some things I've been thinking about lately, especially what with seeing Void and remembering much of what we've been seeing through our dreams..."

"Really...? Does it worry you? Oh, did you remember anything about your mom or dad or your brother or sister?" Fluttershy began questioning me like if she was a detective from that drama cop show. Wow, have I really been showing her too much TV whenever we're alone together with the animals? "Oh...Sorry if I made you uncomfortable Ren...I didn't mean to hurt your feelings..."

"No...It's not that Fluttershy...It's just that...It's kinda scary when I thought back on it...I remember something about running away from my home while my family help protect me from an angry mom..." I sighed, leaning against the chair with a sad look on my face. "If it really was a memory, then what if something happened to my family? I...I was kinda worried, but I didn't want to tell the others of my dream to make them troubled if they remembered something terrifying..."

"Ren..." Fluttershy frowned worriedly, leaning against my shoulder. "I'm so sorry...I didn't mean to bring it up...I shouldn't have."

"Hey, it's okay Flutters. I really trust you." I chuckled, bringing back my soft smile. "After all, you and I are...special someponies." Mm...I felt my cheeks turning red, saying that last part. Heh heh, so this is what it feels like feeling that way. To actually have a girl by your side...

"Oh..." Fluttershy giggled nervously, her face filled with embarrassment. "I-I see...Well...To be honest, I can sorta understand what you mean by family..."

"Really?" I asked, blinking in surprise. "What's your family like?"

"Well...Like everypony, I have a mom and dad, and I also have a...little brother..." Fluttershy sighed, shaking her head at the mention of her brother. "But we're not...the best kind of relationship...He's too relaxed on his life, and I sometimes have to support him but it gets out of hoof...a lot. I sometimes just wish he can start finding a good job and stop taking advantage of ponies...especially me."

"Well...Maybe he just has something going on, and just feels scared Flutters..." I shrugged, frowning upon seeing the frown on her face grow more. "Oh, did I say something wrong?"

"Oh no no no, it's not that." Fluttershy immediately shook her head. "It's not like that...It's just...Maybe you're right. Right now, he's busy off trying to find a job suitable for his talent right now...but we haven't been making that much contact. I think the last time we spoke was during last year right after the wedding..." Flutters looked down, having a soft smile planted on her face. "Heh heh, he looked like he was jealous that I was invited into a royal wedding...he said to me that he wished he went there."

"Wow...I can imagine how that feels when a sibling feels envy of you." I smiled softly. I remembered one time that I gotten this limited edition action figure once, and my bro would feel upset that I got it before him. But...I gave it up and handed it over to him to make him feel better and he proclaimed that maybe we both can share it together. I never seen him been that excited over anything other than awesome things we do together. "So...Does your family know about...relationship with each other?"

"O-Oh...um..." Flutters began blushing, ducking down in embarrassment. I blinked in confusion before something clicked on my head to know what was up.

"...They...don't know?" I raised a brow, standing back up on the bench. "Were you...scared on how they would react for you dating a human, right?"

"O-Oh no! It's not like that! I...told them I was with a relationship with somepony, but didn't specifically told them much...but...it's okay. I promise them by next Hearth's Warming Eve, I invited them over to come by the house along with my brother at home..." Fluttershy reassured, flailing her arms around. "Don't worry Ren! I know for sure that they'll love you! They're very nice ponies that I grew up with on Cloudsdale!"

"Oh...Right. Okay...I believe you, Flutters." I sighed in relief, leaning back on the chair. "Well...I understand you reasons. It would be crazy if you ever dated a new being that arrived on your world, a human no less..."

"Mm hm...." Fluttershy couldn't help but hummed in agreement. "But other than that, I know that they would love you. Every moment I be with you and the others Ren, it feels like an important memory that helps me grow stronger by the minute...Though, I might still have a long way to grow more confident...But I know that you guys can help me out to become strong...because I believe in you guys and...you..." At the end of her sentence, she began blushing red all over her face. "Meeting you was the best thing that ever happened to me, Ren...You, Kodi, Twilight, Spike, and the others...I really enjoy being with you all. Especially, you Ren..."

"...You too...Flutters." I smiled softly, equally blushing with her. "I enjoy being here in Equestria too...I'm not sure if we'll ever find a way back home, but if we do, I just want to let you know...that my heart will always be there in you..."

"Oh Ren..." Fluttershy giggled softly, nuzzling my face before the two of us shared a passionate kiss with one another. "Hee hee, thank you..."

"Mm..." I nodded softly, smiling happily as the two of us had a great moment with each other.

"Mm...Huh? What? Oh, did I miss anything?" Eh? Kodiak? Were you asleep the whole time bud? Heh heh, so much for being our guard dog, huh? Mm...

"Well...I think maybe it's time to go now. We should explore later on." Fluttershy smiled. "Come on, let's continue on and hurry up. I already gotten enough vegetables and fruits for the little ones back home."

"Yeah, sure thing." I nodded in agreement before we began taking our leave and walked back to the town square. 

This was a really nice talk with Flutters, I can feel like my bond with her has already deepened with her. Hmm...

"Huh? Hey guys, I think I smell Sarah..." Huh?! We turned back to Kodiak, finding him sniffing around the ground. "Yeah, it's definitely hers...I think she might've ran through this area along with Snowflake."

"Wait, she was here? Well, where else is she bud?" I questioned, bending down to her. 

"I think...she's this way!" Kodi ran ahead, causing me and Flutters to chase after him! Well that was easy! I mean, sure, we were trying to find her earlier before me and Flutters were chatting with one another, but I guess now we can finally find her. I just hope that she's okay...





Sarah's POV

Okay...I'm definitely not okay. I just never expected that I would be bumped into a couple of jerks who just started messing around with me. Hm? Oh hey, I guess you all never expected to hear my thoughts, did you? Well I'm sorry if I'm interrupting but right now, I'm in the middle of something against these three bullies. Apparently, I found my book lying around near the town's fountain until I gotten tripped over by one of these guys. 

I sensed something was wrong with these three, but to me, they seemed to be just the residents' own jerks.

"You sure talk big for a stupid mare." The first pony, who was lavender coated with brown mane glared directly at me. "We were just having fun."

"Well maybe next time, please show respect to some mares next time or else Snowflake might just have to teach you a lesson next time." I warned, glaring softly at their direction while Snowflake growled at them, having the intent of mauling them.

No...Not mauling, just a simple scare would get them to walk away from me. Snowflake has always been by my side and has helped me before against them, so surely that they wouldn't be thinking of trying to pick a fight against me and my friend here. It's just not right, in my case.

"Oh really? Like that stupid kitty cat scares us." The second pony who had dark green fur coat with yellow mane scoffed at me. "Listen little lady, in case you forgot, you entered our turf."

"But this isn't your turf. It belongs to everyone." I stated firmly. "Acting all arrogant like that isn't healthy for you boys...Just please, just stop before-"

"Shut your mouth, already! Goddamn, you're already annoying us!" The leader of the bunch interrupted me, walking towards me with a glare. He had a blue coat with grey mane coat. He glared at my direction before raising his hoof in the air in an attempt to slap me till Snowflake tackled him, pushing him away! "Oof!" He winced before getting back up and glaring at me. "Tch, I didn't think a freak like you would ever start assaulting us with some stupid cat."

"Her name's Snowflake." I sighed, frowning at them. These boys are really acting like careless jerks to me. "And I would like to ask of you to leave me alone, please..."

"No...And I would rather to not some stupid girl tell us what to do!" The lead pony growled, glaring at my direction.

Mm...As much as I want to fight, I can't use my magic on them. I'll end up using all of my power and he'll instantly find me and try to find me right behind my back. After all, we are connected after all.

"Now then, get off our turf and out of our town, you little-" And in an instant, he winced in pain and yelped in pain before falling down unconsciously. The two ponies grew shocked before they were electrocuted as well, falling unconscious as well! Huh? Wait, who in the world?

"My my, I never thought I would see you two..." Ah! Rantaro! Thank goodness he's here! Ha ha, I'm glad that he's here now. "What are you doing around here?" He questioned, picking his ear a bit before putting away his taser. 

"Rantaro...! I'm really glad that you're here...!" I sighed in relief. "What are you doing here?"

"I was busy taking a stroll later on after you guys left..." Is that so? Then why is it that earlier ago that you were following us and mostly keeping your eye at me? My best bet is he still doesn't trust me and he's been keeping a recent eye on me and I bet Nikki must've slowly began figuring out how she knows her connection with me...It's tough since I'm afraid that they won't listen to me. "My question is what are you doing here?"

"Well I lost my book and I couldn't find it..." I frowned, looking around frantically till Rantaro walks over to me and snaps his fingers, allowing his raccoon friend to pop right out of his hat with something in his head. "Ah...My book!"

"I take it this is yours?" He asked rhetorically, chuckling to himself. "I found it myself when I was doing my stroll."

"Oh wow...Thank you." I smiled softly. But then...Why is it that you were following me in the first place? Did he found it earlier and just been following after me and soon eventually bring it over to me? Why would he do that? "But seriously though, these ponies sure have been acting like jerks to me that it makes me feel bad that you hurt them...I'm sure we could have had a peaceful resolution, right?"

"Yeah right, like words would actually work." He scoffed, turning his back to me. "In the meantime, I'm outta here. Don't tell the others that I saved your life..." He then narrowed his eyes in annoyance. "I didn't save your life out of gratitude...I just saw you over there, that's all..."

"Mm...I don't know, I still considered you saving me." I grinned, chuckling to myself. 

"....Tch." Well either way, I know that Rantaro is sometimes anti-social, but he doesn't really mean well. After all, I know that he doesn't mean it. He's just alone, that's all...

"Um, thank you again for giving me back my book again." I thanked, but all he did was raised his hands and waved it off to me before he was gone by the next minute. Though, I didn't expect for him to actually be around me like that in a way. Mm...I guess I really need to keep my eye on him in case he starts spying me when I'm alone or with Snowflake.

Oh well...Though, I really should help these guys...

"Sarah!" Huh? Now that sounded like Ren. Huh...I guess some of the others must've came looking out for me. Well...I guess that's very nice of them. Heh heh, just like that back then....Oh sorry, you all are not ready for what I might say. Now then, I should get going.

"I'm really sorry that you three gotten hurt. I just hope we can start over someday." I bowed gently to the small ponies before hopping on Snowflake before she and I were off out of this place and followed where the voices were coming. Mm...I'm really sorry if I don't have enough time, but hey, at least you now know what kind of person I am.

Oh...did I say 'person'...? Well...please pretend that you didn't hear that. I really hope that someday we could talk more soon enough...and maybe when I finally prevent the Great Fall from ever occurring from ever coming to place again.

That way, we won't be able to prevent the end of the world once more. I already stopped Void from unleashing the Great Fall a millennia, I can do it again.





Meanwhile

While Sarah and Snowflake was riding their way across town, they didn't noticed or even sensed that their arch-enemy was watching them from down below high in the skies.

"Well...It would seem like you wish to keep living with your own fantasy creations based on that amulet's magic, right? All your dinosaur and dragon friends that you created...well now, I didn't know at the time but it would seem like that 'Father' created that for you while you were away...so I guess I'm ready to begin...but first, maybe now with my powers slowly growing back thanks to what happened back at the Crystal Empire...I think it's time to have fun if I did a little reunion..."

Void glances over to the unconscious ponies that Rantaro took out that were harassing Sarah and Snowflake before. 

"Well now...perhaps that everyone in town, or even all of Equestria should now witness the revival of the Dusk-7 Virus."





Ren's POV

"Sarah! Sarah!" I called out, running behind my pet dog friend and my girlfriend flying near me as we were hoping to locate them! I mean, she has to be around here, right? So...where could she be?

"I'm right over here, Ren." Oh! There she is! I was wondering where she could be! Heh, well I'm glad that she's alright now.  "Sorry if I worry you guys. I just finally gotten my book back..."

"Oh, you did?" Fluttershy asked in surprise before sighing in relief, "That's nice to hear. Where was it?"

"Just over by the fountain." Sarah answered, looking a bit sincere with her answer. "Don't worry, it was nothing I couldn't handle myself."

"You know, sometimes, despite if we just met, you sometimes worry me Sarah." I sighed, shaking my head a bit. "I mean, you still should have called for us to help you."

"Oh, no, I wouldn't trouble you guys with my problems..." Sarah stated. "Besides, you guys seem to enjoy more of this without me and plus, the others are off busy aren't they?"

"Well we were just waiting for you to come back. Me, Kodi, and Flutters were just walking around taking a walk." I answered, placing my hands into my sweaters' pocket. "When Kodiak started smelling you and Snowflake's scent, I just knew that we needed to come and find you..."

"Oh, well while I appreciate it, I didn't mean to make you guys waste the entire day to do that for me..." Sarah shook her head, feeling a bit bad. 

"Nah, it's alright Sarah...None of us really didn't mind..." Fluttershy reassured in a soft manner. "I mean, helping others can be a good thing, you know..."

"Mm...You're right." Sarah shrugged. "But still, I don't want you guys to face the things I do..."

Really? But why's that? I mean, it's not right to just let someone do all the work themselves. I mean, we need help from others as a way to help fight back and solve things that lone people can't solve on their own. 

"Now I should get going, I'm gonna head back to the home-ship." Sarah yawned before turning to her pet tiger. "Come on girl, let's go."

Wait what? She wants to leave right now?!

"What? Why?" I asked in surprise. "I mean, Sarah, don't you think maybe you should change your mind and-"

"I really don't want you guys wasting your time with someone like me, sorry." Sarah cut in, looking a bit apologetic. 'T-To be honest, I mean, I appreciate what you guys are doing but...none of these ponies wants to hang out with me and plus, some might've tried harming me..."

But...I get what you mean, but you can't give up that easily. "Come on Sarah, I mean, give this another chance. You gotta at least get used to being around this town. I mean, they're just your friends after all, right?"

"Mm..." Sarah hummed, looking unsure about this.

"Yeah! And besides, you said Snowflake will always be there to protect you. Truth be told, I want to do the same thing with Ren and the rest of their friends." Kodi spoken, barking seriously at her. "So, please, give them a chance."

"W-Well...I know that, but I feel like this place isn't a good place and nopony here seems to want to get closer due to Snowflake being around me, and plus, they might fear me for my power." Sarah stated. "I mean, sure, they looked very nice and thanked me for what happened with Trixie, but some might speculate that with my power that I might end up like her."

"That's not true, Sarah!" I called out, knowing full well. "I mean, you may got powerful magic, but I know that isn't true. Like Twilight, if you show anyone that you use your magic for good and not for selfish reasons, you'll be able to earn ponies' trust."

I know that for sure. Was Sarah falling for the same reason as Twilight? I mean, she has strong magic like Twilight, well...more magic if she is able to do things along with that amulet around her neck, so maybe...

BOOM!


"EEK!" Fluttershy screamed, hiding behind my back before we looked over to the right side of town and saw a large dinosaur-like monster rampaging across down, roaring into the sky! 

"What is that?" Kodi asked in shock. "It's so huge!"

"I think that's a Saurophaganax!" I exclaimed, widening my eyes. "Wait, is it like Sarah's creations?"

"No...That isn't like any of my creations." Sarah narrowed her eyes. "If it was, my amulet would have glowed and I would have known as well...Something's not right."

"W-Well it looks like it's terrifying the town..." Fluttershy gulped. "O-Oh no, what if it hurts anypony or even destroy the town!"

"You're right...We gotta do something before it's too late!" I called before we witnessed Sarah hopping on Snowflake and heading off. "Sarah, wait! Come back!"

"I'm sorry you guys, but this is something I need to do before it harms you all!" What?! But Sarah...! What's it gonna take her to actually stop being independent in herself?!

With that, we soon gave chase to her as we quickly ran past from the scared citizens before I managed to catch with most of the gang, finding them glaring or staring at the thing with weariness in their eyes.

"Ren, what's going on?" Twilight questioned. 

"I don't know, but I do know that we need to evacuate everyone back there." I stated. 

"Pinkie, Applejack, Kaede, Mason, Nicole, and Rainbow Dash are already working on that." Oh phew, that's a relief. "Rantaro's not around, and as for the rest of us, we're here to make sure that it doesn't cause anymore trouble!"

"I see...That's good to hear." I nodded in agreement. "Where's Sarah?"

"Newbie went ahead and she's dealing with this thing all alone!" Jack yelled. "Right now, we need to get her out of here and everypony else!"

"Yeah, but where could she be?!" Rainbow Dash yelled out.

"Wait...I think I see her!" Skye called out, pointing over to the figure standing in front of the dinosaur. "Hey! Private Gem! Hey get out of there!"

What's Sarah planning to do? We need to help her before she-

"Let's do this." Huh? Sarah? Suddenly, her amulet began glowing it started shining till it unveils her...It's her Dino Bracer! Does that mean she's gonna...? "Alright! Here we go! HA!"

Her amulet unveiled a card out of her amulet before she manages to sliced through the Dino Bracer, summoning her own dinosaur! It was a large yellow dinosaur with red bumps going from its neck till its back. It seems to possess spikes all over its neck. 

"That dinosaur..." I muttered, widening my eyes.

"T-That's an Amargasaurus!" Jamie gasped. "So she does have other dinos than the ones she showed us..."

“Ready, Aqua?” Sarah called, which Aqua roared in agreement before charging straight ahead as the Saurophaganax noticed it and roared back at him and charged, initating the battle between each other. I guess Sarah really does got this herself...Um, I guess we'll just sit and wait.

We watched over and saw the Saurophaganax charged at the other dino named Aqua but he roared and slammed it with his neck, sending it crashing into some buildings. Using its small arms, the Saurophaganax got up again and charged but this time Aqua roared, charged forth and lowered it's head, tossing the dinosaur into the air!

"Whoa!" I gasped.

"Who's winning who?" Kodi asked. I wish I knew boy...

“Awesome!” Rainbow cheered. 

“Hell yeah!” Jack added, grinning. "Guess newbie's got this, after all."

"Yeah, but shouldn't we help her?" Carrie asked worriedly. "We shouldn't leave her like this."

"I guess so..." I nodded in agreement, taking out my Hacking Gun. "We gotta at least fight back before Sarah might have some trouble."

"Well that shouldn't be a problem! Look over there!" Rainbow Dash pointed over to the right, which showed two more Saurophanganax creatures coming straight towards Sarah and her dino friend!

"Oh crap, guess we got some more dinos to clobber, eh?" Jack grinned, cracking his knuckles before his cutie-marks began glowing a bit. "Time to kick some butt!"

"Agreed, fatty!" Rainbow Dash grinned. "I'll distract it, grab the tail for the one coming straight towards us!"

"And we'll take care of the other one!" I added. "Alright gang, be careful! Protect Sarah from the other dinosaurs while she fights the first dinosaur!"

"Got it!" Everyone nodded.

"And I'll get Carrie out of here!" Fluttershy agreed. "She shouldn't be here and it's dangerous for a little girl to come here."

"But I wanna help...!" Carrie whined till Twilight shook her head and replied, "No Carrie, you can't be here! It's much too dangerous, so you need to evacuate right now!"

"Mm...Okay." Carrie frowned sadly before she got onto Fluttershy's back. Flutters flew over to me and kissed me on the cheek before flying away with Carrie by her side. As for the rest of us, Skye quickly hopped onto Dash's back and said, "Onwards, Private Dash! Time to protect our town!"

"You got it, kiddo!" Rainbow smirked before she flew straight high to the skies while she started messing around with the second Saurophaganax by sticking her tongue out at it while Skye used her chopter toy to come quickly and quickly made it shoot out many missiles straight at its face, upsetting it while Jack managed to get around it.

"Alright big guy, let's take you out!" Jack smirked, cracking his knuckles while the marks on his cheeks kept glowing before he picked up a large cart filled with hay before throwing it straight at the dino's face, catching it off-guard! Whoa...even without that cutie-mark's power, I think Jack might've lifted it, but still, awesome job dude! "Ha! Now for the tail!"

Jack quickly rushed over while it was being a bit stunned from the hit before he managed to grab ahold of its tail and started to twirl him around before throwing back at the third Saurophaganax, colliding against it.

"Ah ha! Super strength! Me likey already!" Jack laughed, patting his stomach. "I'm already starting to like these new abilities!"

"Nice on Jack!" I cheered before adjusting my Hacking Gun and aiming it straight over at the two fallen dinosaurs. Alright, this will keep them busy...! "Now...Dance!"

I shot two rainbow-colored melody beams over at the two dinos, and it hit them by the nose, and it seemed to work as the two dinos began dancing around like it was nothing. Alright, I gotten them distracted! Now all we need is for Sarah to beat them!

"Alright, I think for now, Sarah needs to take down the two! I think she almost finishes him off!" Twilight pointed out, eyeing over Sarah and her new friend, Aqua, was beating him with ease!

BAM!

Aqua uses her tail to slam against the first dino and slammed against the other two, wearing off the effects of the Dance beam!

The Saurophaganax crashed to the ground but it wasn't done. It got up and it's mouth filled with flames and then it reeled back and launched the flames at Aqua!

"This is totally something out of an anime!" I exclaimed.

"Hey! Newbie, finish those things off!" Jack yelled out. Sarah seemed to have heard his loud voice echoing through the streets before she gave out the next attack!

"Aqua, Water Sword!" Sarah called. 

Aqua roared and launched a powerful stream of water at the Magma Blaster. The two attacks combined and exploded, sending high winds all over. We held on until the winds died out and the Saurophaganax roared, still filled with energy to fight.

"Ugh that thing won't give up." Jack grumbled.

"I'm sure it'll end, just wait." I reassured.

"If so, then it got another thing!" Huh? Skye?! We all looked over and saw Skye flying straight ahead on top of Rainbow Dash to deliver their own attacks. "Alright then, on my command Private Rainbow Dash, activate your Rainbow powers!"

"Ha! With pleasure! Hey ugly, take this!" Both Rainbow Dash and Skye flew over and swirled around the three dinos, getting them all dizzy while leaving behind a rainbow trail! That's Rainbow Dash for ya, and Skye seems to know what's up!

"Yeah! Nice one!" Skye cheered as the two quickly flew away from the distracted evil dinos while Sarah and Aqua decided to finish this off!

"Alright boy, let's end this. Ultimate Water!" Sarah commanded.

Soon, water splashed around Aqua, then geysers form a path for it and it ran toward towards the Saurophaganax and it rammed the three evil dinosaurs away, sending it skidding back and once it was defeated, the three grew unconscious, falling down before they fall down, not moving an inch.

"T-They're down..." Jamie muttered, widening his eyes in shock.

"It looks like it..." Twilight frowned. "Though, just out like a light..."

"Guess that means Sarah really did finished them off without much help from us." Kodi stated, surprised by this.

"Yeah..." I nodded in agreement before frowning, "Though, those dinos were like Sarah's partners and if I've seen the anime, once they're defeated, they would automatically get transformed back into cards..."

"Wait..." Huh? We took noticed of Sarah narrowing her eyes before she slowly walked over to the three unconscious dinos while Aqua disappeared and headed back inside Sarah's amulet, along with her Dino Bracer. She approaches them and examines the three, forming a big frown on her face. Soon, the rest of us began heading over to her side. "Hmm...These three...It's awfully strange that these three Saurophanganax would appear out of nowhere...It's just strange..."

"What do you think it could mean...?" I asked with a confused look, slowly reaching out to them. "I mean...They really look upset...I just don't know either...Other than that, it's been a while since I last seen the anime...Hmm, I guess I should really catch up with it and see...but what I don't get is why did they appear? I thought they only appear out of your amulet, Sarah?"

"Yeah...it doesn't make any sense..." Sarah frowned. "Unless...." Before she could say anything, she went silent and didn't say anything else. 

"Newbie?" Jack questioned. "What's up?"

"...Hey Ren, Jack, Jamie? I think you three to help me with something." Sarah proposed, confusing the three of us. "I need you three to touch each of the dinosaurs..."

"Huh?" We each looked at each other, wondering what she was planning now.

"Sarah...What exactly are you planning?" Twilight asked in confusion. "Do you know something?"

"If my hunch is right, then I might know one thing...Now then, can you three boys touch the three dinosaurs on your own please?" Sarah asked gently.

"Um...Well...Okay?" I shrugged, seeing no other way but do what she says. I mean, it's not that I'm being a pushover but...I just have this sudden feeling that Sarah might be right about this. I just have this sudden feeling...like I know what she's doing.

"Hmph...You want us to touch this thing? For what reason?" Jack huffed.

"Y-Yeah...I mean, I-I don't get it either..." Jamie shook his head, unable to understand this either.

"Um, it's complicated to explain but I wanna try something, so can you please and I'll explain later, please." Mm...I guess I can understand that. 

Wait...I can understand it? Why would I say that...? Unless...I might've been doing this for sure? But for what reason...? I have no clue...Hmm...It's best to do this then...

Soon enough, I slowly walked over to the first dinosaur and placed my hand on the first Saurophaganax's chest.

"Ren?" Twilight called. "What are you doing?"

"Well...It's just that...I have this feeling Twi...like I know what's gonna happen and I might know what's up." I stated. "I mean, we should at least try this out...and whatever it is, Sarah might be onto something..."

"Huh?" Twilight couldn't understand what I meant by that, but it seems like I might be onto something and I'm about to find out much about it. 

"Well...I guess I might do it..." Jamie frowned. "Though Ren, I don't know what this might be about...but I'm slowly grasping on what you and Sarah are trying to say...it might connect to our powers, right?"

I let out a nod, feeling like that it might be able to connect the dots with this situation. 

"What do you mean our powers?" Jack questioned before smirking, "Like our cutie-marks and how it gave me super strength and you two weak little powers?"

W-Weak little powers...? Really...? I mean, my healing powers can't be that weak-sauced...

"Well yeah..." I nodded in agreement. "And also, Sarah seems to know what's up, but I also want to trust her as a friend. Right now, things have been quite not what I was expecting to help out Sarah, but we gotta try."

"...Tch, fine, but if this is just a joke, then I'm clobbering you all." Jack scoffed, already approaching the second Saurophaganax and touching its chest. 

"W-Why us?" Jamie squeaked in fear, feeling scared about his threat till he quickly placed his hand on the third Saurophaganax's chest. "O-Okay Sarah, w-we did it..."

"Yeah, but what I don't get is what are you doing Sarah..." Twilight frowned.

"Yeah, what? You gonna make them tame the beast or something?" Rainbow Dash snorted. "Ha, that's pretty funny, especially if fatty's doing it."

"Shut it!" Jack hissed, feeling upset about what she said. Heh heh, well that's actually...funny.

"Okay...Now then..." Sarah took a deep breath before standing over between us as her horn slowly began glowing. "But now, let's see...Let's hope this will be enough....." She slowly closed her eyes, her horn started to glow bright. As she continues this process, I began feeling something glow on the palm of my hand, and that's when I took noticed of both Jamie and Jack and eventually, mine. "HAAAAAH!" 

Suddenly, a faint white flash circled around us all...and I was blinded by that light. This feeling...It's so warm yet so nostalgic...like we've experienced something like this. Wait, experience this? Really? I'm really serious about this...I know this. The power...of friendship...and hope by our side.


........Huh? What? Soon, I began feeling the bright light dying down before I slowly opened my eyes and what we saw was...

"Huh...?" What in the...? Who the heck are these three ponies...? Oh gods...are they okay...?

"H-Huh? Where did...?" Jamie blinked, looking between them. "Were they...the Saurophaganax dinosaurs that we just saw a minute ago?

"Yes..." Sarah nodded. "And they're also the ones who I nearly gotten assaulted..."

"Say what newbie?!" Jack yelled out. "They did what?!"

"So wait, why didn't you tell us?!" Rainbow Dash demanded. 

"I thought I could handle it...Sorry about that, you guys." Sarah apologized. "But they were the Saurophaganax dinosaurs...I guess I was right..."

"Wait...that flash was not just from you, was it?" Jamie questioned. "That also resonated from the three of us."

"What? What do you mean, Jamie?" Kodi asked in confusion. "You guys created that flash that turned them from dinosaurs back into ponies...?"

"Exactly." Sarah nodded. "They were transformed into that dinos thanks to Dusk-7 Virus." Wait, the Dusk-7 Virus?! Hold on...

"Dusk-7 Virus?" Twilight asked, widening her eyes. "Wait, isn't that the name of the virus that's happening on your world, you guys?"

"It is..." I answered, looking a bit shocked. "Hold on Sarah, how do you know about it?"

"I've...seen it beforehand by the one after me." She answered, looking a bit reluctant to answer that. "And trust me, it has happened...I had to use my abilities to try and heal those who were affected by being transformed into monsters, or even in their case, dinosaurs...That's why I thought at the time something was definitely strange with those three Saurophaganax appearing at the same time, or even looking darker than what I originally imagined...But then again, he turns people based on their darkness judging by how strong their dark desires are, or just for his amusement, I still don't understand due to their appearances..."

Wow...She seems really accurate or knowledgeable about this virus. She really does know a lot about it...but this he, is she mentioning...?

"Mm mm mm...Excellent deduction..." Ah...No...This can't be. We all slowly turned around and widened our eyes upon seeing a familiar figure floating down behind us, forcing us to turn around and widened our eyes in shock.

"You!" I gasped. "You're that guy that we saw back at the Crystal Empire!"

"Greetings...I see my reputation precedes me. The name is Void if you have forgotten." Void hissed, clutching his fists.

Snowflake roared at him, baring her teeth. Oh man, I can't believe that I'm staring at him...No wait, I can't believe that he's here out of nowhere! I thought we blasted him straight out of the Crystal Empire thanks to our new power! "And I see you’ve met Sarah Gem already." Huh? Sarah? So Sarah really does know him!

"So...you're coming after me?" Sarah muttered, glaring at Void.

"When I learned you've finally decided to show your face...I thought of this happy reunion." Void explained. "After all, why wouldn't I see you? It's been so long...sister..."

AH! Wait what?! Wait wait wait, hold up! What's going on here?! Why does Sarah know him?! And...did he just called her his 'sister'? Ah...

...Okay seriously, what the heck is actually going on here?

To Be Continued
> Remaking this series!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hey guys, this is MaxTV1234 here. I want to let you all know that I'm planning on remaking this fanfic from the scratch-up. So far with this story is quite well, but then I started to take way too long and at the start of Season 3, it's just making things more weird out, especially when I added Sarah. It was going well, but right now things are just going so weird that I can't seem to explain much of the plot anymore. I want to try to become the best writer this world has ever seen and I strive to make things better. When I read fanfics, I was inspired but I felt like I was rushing things and wasn't making it any good. Plus also, I also didn't know if using every episode was something, but hey, maybe not every episode but of original chapters I would make. Though, to be honest, I'm still deciding. I hope you all understand this, and I'm sorry if I disappointed you all. My love for this was starting to get dry out and because of College, I couldn't stay focus and I've been experiencing some...depressing things.

Mainly, I just wanted to write fanfics to escape my life but now I started loving this and so on, that's why I want to try and make things better. I want to thank you all for sticking up for me, and I hope you all soon see what I have in store for my remake of this series. I'm still an amateur writer, so I know I'll keep practicing my skills, and I want to thank you for encouraging me to this end. 

Also, PikachuSkittty, you can continue using my OC's in your spin-off since you've seem to go this, though if I had to say that you still need some practice, but I know you'll be a successful writer too like you all. I first began writing fanfics to escape my problems with my family and people and to run away from my fears, but now, I want to try again and strive to do better. I'm going to become a writer / editor, and I won't let you all down. Thank you all and don't worry, it's not like I'm canceling this series or anything, remaking it. Though, I guess in this old version that it would be considered 'cancel' and it feels wrong to leave you all in the last chapter in a cliffhanger. Huh, guess I suck at that, huh? Oh well...I hope you all would wait one day. Until then, this is MaxTV1234 signing off.